When you don’t see someone for a while, they tend to look kind of different the next time you meet. That’s not because they’ve actually changed, but rather due to your memory being inaccurate. Still, I don’t think my roommate has always had barnacles growing on her.
Kit Sutton did indeed look different. Beautiful, but different.
In the short time we’d been apart, her hair had grown to an impressive length. It trailed after her through the water as she effortlessly hopped from rock to rock before landing in front of us. She was even more scantily clad than usual; in fact, she wasn’t wearing anything at all. Her normally olive skin had adopted a pearlescent sheen, interrupted by the algae, starfish and seashells clinging to her body. Her eyes shone in the light of our torch and she regarded us with an unreadable expression, putting a hand to her hip.
"I can't believe you're actually here." She shook her head, sounding like she wasn't even sure herself what tone to strike. "You… you'd better leave. And fast. I-it's nice to see you, though."
I took a step forward and hugged her. She felt slippery. "I've missed you."
"Yeah. Me too. You should still go now."
"You need to come back," I said. "I'm sorry I ever gave up on you. There has to be a way for you to come back."
She shook her head. "Eva, you saw what my father can do. You saw the wave and you just saw his grotto guard. There's, like, a thousand more where that one came from."
"What are you doing here anyways? Isn't this a kinda way too lonely spot for you to hang out?" Elijah asked. "Doesn't seem very you."
"Yeah. It's… not." She rolled her eyes. "I'm basically grounded. My Dad's gonna keep me here for the next two hundred years or so. I'm not allowed to leave until he trusts me again."
"Two hundred years?" Eli echoed.
Kit massaged her temples. "I don't like it either, believe me." Looking up, a hopeful expression crossed her face. "How's Nettie?"
"She misses you," I told her.
"She does? That's, um… nice."
"It's cool, I know about you two."
"Oh. Well. I'm really glad she's thinking about me. Is that mean? Because I don't want her to be unhappy, it just feels good, you know?"
"I can imagine," I answered. "And it only proves my point. We have to get you out of here."
"Dude, I said no. You actually can't beat my father. I wish that was an option, but it's simply not."
"Kit…"
"It's Chandra." She raised her head to fix me with a stern gaze. So empty, so joyless, so… unlike her. "It was nice being Kit and running around up top and living with you. Those were a good few years, and now here I am, paying the price. There is nothing you can do against my Dad."
Silence descended upon us for a sober couple seconds. I studied her expression, her set jaw and taut shoulders. "And what about you?" I asked. "Can you do something?"
Kit snorted. "You've never even seen me use any sort of powers."
"But you have them, don't you?"
"Actually, I do." She casually raised a hand, her wrist slowly describing a circle. Eli and I watched in astonished silence as a trail of water snaked its way up from the lake, arching above her head and trickling back down on the other side of the stepstone. Kit Sutton looked after it disinterestedly, then turned to us with a bored shrug. "I guess I can sorta control water."
Elijah was gaping at her. "Could you do this the whole time?"
"Nope. Only when I'm in my natural habitat. I'm the crown princess—" she spat out the words in discontent, forming air-quotes around them— "and the heiress to the throne, so I'm, like, ultra connected to my element or whatever. Not like my siblings."
"But as of now, you are stronger than them?" I queried. "Is there any possibility you could become stronger than your father, too?"
For a moment, she stared at me, her bottom lip caught between her teeth. "Actually, let me show you something." Her naked feet never once slipping on the wet stone, she proceeded towards the nearest platform rock, jumping off with ease and landing gracefully. After trading shrugs with Elijah Carter, we scrambled after her. She led us back a little ways and then down one of the other passages we'd glimpsed before, barely losing a word the whole time. I stopped trying to strike up a conversation, focusing solely on keeping up with her unnaturally sleek, swift steps.
"The olm you saw before was one of my father's guardians," she called out sharply over her shoulder. "The sea breeds giants, as they say. Or rather, Dad does. He keeps creating abominations like that, and he uses them to ward off outsiders in places where they don't belong. They're obviously not stopping me from running away again—you've seen that they'll obey me. But his Majesty has made it quite clear that if I break out, he's going to turn the town into a swamp. I'm not going to be responsible for people's deaths, or the loss of their homes. Especially not… not hers."
She came to a halt, squaring her shoulders. Above her head, I could make out the silhouette of an opening in the tunnel. "We're here. This… this should be enough proof that he'll make good on any threat he's ever uttered." She stepped aside to make way for us.
We hesitantly pushed past her and into the room that lay before us. It was different from all the others we'd seen thus far—it didn't lure one into a false sense of security with its descriptive beauty. In fact, the second the beam of our flashlight illuminated its interior, every last fiber of my being started to cry out to me, telling me to run. My flight instinct kicking in, I tried desperately to stay grounded somehow, to keep control. I couldn't allow myself to panic. This was a horrible time to end up going dimensions. I had to remain in this reality, no matter how difficult the sight before me was rendering the task.
I heard Elijah Carter gag beside me, his stomach revolting at what he saw. His hand abruptly flew to my shoulder, cold, sweat-slick fingers clamping down on my skin, hard enough to bruise. With my own stomach doing kick-flips inside my body, I could understand his reaction far too well. Instead of shrinking away, I reached up to graze his knuckles with my own, a fleeting touch I couldn't find the strength to hold. It was hard to be reassuring given the circumstances.
We were looking at a gallery of corpses. They lined the walls, the floor, the ceiling, all in different states of wholeness and decay. A viscous, transparent fluid was gluing them to the stone, fixing them in their respective places. In some spots, it looked quite shiny and fresh, while in others, it had hardened, encasing the dead bodies like clear, pale amber. It was an unorganized chaos, the carcasses strewn practically everywhere, some overlapping, some upside down. Some had their eyes still open, their faces eternally frozen in void, empty expressions of terror. Most bodies weren't even complete—arms, legs or heads were missing, pronounced bitemarks marring the aged yet well-preserved flesh.
Elijah and I found ourselves standing rooted to the ground, too terrified to move, too dazed to speak. My friend's dark gaze frantically raced over the walls, flickering across the horrid display, taking in the carnage. My own eyes seemed to be burning. My head was spinning, and I had to hold onto his arm to support myself—it felt as though my legs were about to give way beneath me.
A shimmering light at the center of the room caught my attention. Somehow finding it within me to steady myself, I took a couple faltering steps towards it. Elijah Carter followed suit and Kit Sutton wordlessly trailed after us. Stepping over the dozens and dozens of corpses in my way, I tried hard to keep my wits about me. When I finally reached its source, I was surprised to find it to be a pond, or rather a bottomless hole of water. Another connection to the sea, no doubt. The shine however seemed fine from within it, from down below where there would normally be just darkness. Looking in, the breath was once again stolen from my lungs. It felt rather like peering through a small window into a very large hall. I could only see a fracture of what lay beneath.
Hovering within the endless masses of water was the enormous statue of a woman. Her stony pale arms were raised, her hands reaching out almost pleadingly, as if she was hoping for someone to pull her up from her cold, abyssal grave. Her eyes, one of which was about the size of my head, were wide open, her colorless stare holding a wild, unreadable mix of emotions. Her lips were parted in a silent scream. An unearthly, bright glow surrounded her; it seemed to come from within her body rather than anywhere else. It was disturbingly beautiful.
"Her name was Calypso."
Kit's voice pulled me from my trance. When I turned to face her, she pointedly avoided my gaze. An idea took shape in my mind, created by the faint, wavery undertone of mourning in her words. "She was someone special, wasn't she?"
"My mother."
I swallowed, my pulse still thrumming in my ears. Stepping forward, I tentatively grasped my roommate's hand. She let go of a soft breath, the corner of her mouth twitching. "These people here have been rotting away for centuries. It's the worst punishment imaginable, isn't it. The lucky ones are dead before they get glued down, but the ones he's really angry at, he covers in that goo when they're, like, lethally injured. I don't quite know what this stuff is, but it slows down all those organic processes, the death, the decomposition…" She paused. "With Mom, it was different. He turned her to stone. The same kind that grows from the ground here, you know; that smooth, shiny kinda rock that looks real pretty."
"What did she do to piss off your Dad?"
"What did any of these poor fuckers do? Most of these are failed cult leaders, actually. You'd never guess how many cults the deep ones have dedicated to them. As for my mother, I don't know. I can't even remember her, to be honest." She shrugged with affected carelessness. "You see it now? My father is… just beyond comprehension."
"So are you, though, aren't you? If you think about it."
"Eva, I know you're trying to boost morale here, but it's not working. Please let me get you out of here. And for heaven's sake, don't come back."
She led us back through the labyrinth of tunnels and corridors, staying well behind when we caught the first glimpse of daylight.
"I promise I'll think of something," I told her. "I'll find a way to get you out."
She merely shook her head. "No, you won't. Just go home and look for a new roommate. Or move back in with Nettie. She'll be glad."
I clenched my teeth, but allowed Eli to press his palm to my back, guiding me towards the exit.
"Actually, just… just wait. Could you tell her I, like, miss her? A lot?" Kit shouted after us, a sudden note of warmth softening her voice.
Elijah turned back to her with a sad smile. "Of course."
We didn't return to the car straight away, instead walking along the shore for a little while. My extra limbs having retracted and Eli's face having returned to a less nauseous color, we didn't bear any outward traces of our experience in the cave. We didn’t talk much, but we almost leaned onto one other with how closely we stuck to each other’s side. Eventually, I gathered the strength to break the silence. “This can’t stand, obviously.”
“You still want to get her out?” He gave me a sidelong glance. “This is more for Nettie’s sake than anything else, isn’t it?”
“I do like Kit Sutton, and I miss her tremendously,” I stated. “But largely, it is.”
Elijah, having nothing else to add, gave a noncommittal grunt.
“Would you mind if I asked you something personal?” I asked.
“Try it and find out.”
“I was wondering about what Mary Markov said about you earlier,” I began. “An incident at a highschool.”
He sighed. Silence fell, and for a minute I thought he wouldn’t respond at all. Then, he slowed down, coming to a halt and turning to look out at the horizon. “So how do we do this, Shirley? You really want me to pour my heart out to you and let you in on my tragic past as we stare at the tossing waves? That’s a bit too romantic for the two of us, if you ask me.”
“But you’d let me in on your tragic past in a less romantic setting?”
“Oh sure, anytime,” he said lightly. “Well, not any time. I’d be okay talking to you about it, though. See, it doesn’t matter to me if you know or not, the problem is kinda the headspace and getting the words out of my mouth in the first place.”
“I’m glad you feel like you could do that with me.” I regarded his profile, noting how he swallowed and shut his eyes for a moment.
“Let’s go back to the car.”
So we did. Only that it wasn’t quite how we left it. Elijah noticed it first—a low, hissed curse escaped him as he bent down to inspect the damage. The back window had been smashed in. The brown folder Mary Markov had given me was gone.
X
1
2: deadbeat roommate
3: creepy crush
4: relocation
5: beach concert
6: First date
7: Temp work
8: roommate talk
9: a dismal worldview
10: warehouse
11: staircase
12: explanation
13: hurt
14: hospital
15: ocean
16: diner
17: government work
18: something in the caves
19: shopping cart
20: olms and Jewels

Even the ones that say early access weren't released, and the creators haven't released cc publicly since last year. Here are the links of the cc I am after:
https://www.tumblr.com/qicc/716955852869894144/sleek-hallway-set
https://www.tumblr.com/cowbuild/716581418323558400/may-2023-set-1-soft-serene-nursery-this-is
https://www.tumblr.com/cowbuild/710873732788453376/march-2023-set-1-dream-office-decorate-your
https://www.tumblr.com/pixelvibes/716877328030007296/you-can-find-all-my-items-by-searching-pv-in
https://www.tumblr.com/leosims4/717429634797551616/download-patreon-below-are-where-you-can-find-my
https://www.tumblr.com/guemarasims/718116621110083584/elevate-your-sims-sneaker-game-with-my-latest
https://www.tumblr.com/pinkbox-anye/718035060828307457/new-bathroom-set-at-my-patreon

1. BENQ SCREENBAR PLUS

This light bar attaches to the top of your monitor and provides uniform lighting with adjustable brightness and color temperature.
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1. GOVEE IMMERSION TV LED BACKLIGHTS

Although designed for TVs, these LED light strips can be easily adapted to monitor use, offering customizable lighting with various colors and effects.
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• Customizable lighting with various colors and effects.
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1. LUMINOODLE COMPUTER MONITOR BIAS LIGHTING

This bias lighting strip enhances your monitor’s contrast and reduces eye strain by providing soft ambient lighting behind the screen.
​

• Provides soft ambient lighting behind the monitor.
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1. PHILIPS HUE PLAY GRADIENT LIGHTSTRIP

While primarily designed for TVs, this gradient light strip can be used for monitors, offering dynamic and immersive lighting with millions of colors.
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• Dynamic and immersive lighting with millions of colors.
• Designed for TVs but adaptable for monitors.
• Syncs with on-screen content for a synchronized lighting experience.
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1. CORSAIR ICUE LS100 SMART LIGHTING STRIP

These LED light strips can be mounted behind your monitor and synchronized with your gaming setup, creating an immersive lighting experience.
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• LED light strips for a synchronized lighting experience.
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1. DREAMCOLOR LED STRIP LIGHTS

These RGB light strips can be easily attached to the back of your monitor, providing customizable lighting effects and adding a touch of flair to your gaming setup.
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• RGB light strips with customizable lighting effects.
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1. NZXT HUE 2 AMBIENT RGB LIGHTING KIT

This lighting kit consists of LED strips that can be mounted on the back of your monitor, offering immersive ambient lighting with customizable colors and effects.
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• Immersive ambient lighting with customizable colors and effects.
• LED strips are mountable on the back of the monitor.
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• Easy installation with adhesive backing.

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1. VANSKY BIAS LIGHTING FOR HDTV

Although designed for TVs, this bias lighting strip is versatile enough to be used for monitors, reducing eye strain and providing a comfortable viewing experience.
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• Bias lighting strip for reduced eye strain.
• Enhances contrast and improves perceived image clarity.
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• Easy USB-powered setup with adhesive backing.
• Compatible with various monitor sizes.

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1. NANOLEAF LIGHT PANELS

While not specifically designed for monitors, these modular light panels can be creatively arranged around your gaming setup, offering customizable lighting and unique visual effects.
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• Modular light panels for creative arrangement.
• Customizable lighting effects and colors.
• Syncs with music and on-screen content for dynamic displays.
• App-controlled with advanced programming options.
• Add a unique visual element to the gaming setup.

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1. HAMLITE LED TV BACKLIGHT

These LED light strips can be easily mounted on the back of your monitor, providing bias lighting and enhancing the overall visual experience.
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• Bias lighting strip for reduced eye strain.
• Easy installation with adhesive backing.
• Multiple color options with adjustable brightness levels.
• Enhances contrast and perceived image clarity.
• Suitable for various monitor sizes.

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Read More: https://bit.ly/3qin1Ed

I am leaving for a road trip soon and I'm struggling to find this yarn locally. I'm looking for forest/deep green, worsted or bulky weight, soft cotton or wool yarn. Fast shipping, as I leave in about a week. Any ideas?
Edit: Midwest US

https://bafurnitureclearance.au/blogs/ba-furniture-clearance-blog/elevating-bedroom-aesthetics-latest-furniture-trends-for-2023
The world of bedroom furniture is witnessing a revolution in 2023, with designers pushing boundaries and exploring innovative concepts. From fluid and contradictory shapes to nostalgic nods and opulent finishes, this year's trends promise to transform your bedroom into a luxurious sanctuary. In this blog, we will explore the latest bedroom furniture trends for 2023, incorporating keywords such as fluidity, nostalgia, opulence, and fusion of textures and patterns.

1. Fluidity and Contradictory Shapes: Say goodbye to traditional straight lines and welcome the era of fluidity and contradictory shapes. Furniture pieces with asymmetrical designs and unexpected angles are gaining popularity. This trend brings a sense of dynamism and movement to your bedroom, adding an element of intrigue and visual interest.
2. Exaggerated Forms: In 2023, bedroom furniture is all about making a statement. Embrace exaggerated forms and bold silhouettes that demand attention. From oversized headboards to elaborately shaped nightstands, these eye-catching pieces create a focal point and showcase your individuality.
3. Scalloped Skirting and Trims: Nostalgia meets contemporary design with the revival of scalloped skirting and trims. Adding a touch of femininity and elegance, scalloped details adorn beds, chairs, and dressers. The intricate scalloping adds depth and texture, creating a visually captivating experience.
4. Cylindrical Arms: Sleek and modern, cylindrical arms are becoming a prominent feature in bedroom furniture. Upholstered chairs and sofas with rounded arms offer a contemporary twist to classic designs. The smooth lines and clean curves provide a visually pleasing contrast against angular furniture pieces.
5. Pleated Upholstery on Sharp Structural Furniture: Experience the fusion of softness and sharpness with pleated upholstery on sharp structural furniture. Chairs, ottomans, and bed frames feature pleated fabrics that add texture and dimension. This unique combination creates visually captivating and comfortable furniture pieces.
6. Nostalgia and Opulence: Indulge in nostalgia and opulence as bedroom furniture takes inspiration from the past. Luxurious materials like velvet, gold detailing, chrome accents, marble, and glass bring a sense of grandeur to your space. These opulent finishes create a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.
7. Monochromatic Schemes: Simplicity and elegance merge in monochromatic schemes. Ranging from soft pastels to rich jewel tones, a harmonious blend of hues sets the stage for the extravagant furniture pieces. This monochromatic backdrop allows the furniture to shine and become the focal point of the room.
8. Striking Tableware: Fusion of Shapes, Textures, and Patterns: Extend the allure of your bedroom furniture to the dining area with striking tableware sets. Fusion of different shapes, textures, and patterns creates an artistic and visually captivating dining experience. Geometric plates, textured glassware, and patterned dinnerware add depth and excitement to the room.
9. Pattern on Pattern: Dare to be bold with pattern on pattern styling. Mix and match different patterns, such as stripes, florals, and geometric prints, to create an eclectic and vibrant bedroom. This trend allows you to showcase your personality and create a truly unique and visually stimulating space.

The bedroom furniture trends for 2023 embrace fluidity, contradictory shapes, and opulent finishes. From scalloped skirting to pleated upholstery, designers are pushing boundaries and transforming bedrooms into luxurious sanctuaries. Nostalgic touches, gold detailing, chrome, marble, glass, velvet, and monochromatic schemes bring a sense of opulence and sophistication. Striking tableware and pattern on pattern styling add excitement and personality to the bedroom.

Sleep was a respite only in the way it separated the past from the new. A fresh start each day meant something different. You had survived and were still providing, still waking up everyday, optical lens’ able to catch the light of whatever star you labored underneath.
Gareth knew something was being lost. A call from the chambers of his sleeping physical brain, the hidden gods and their infinite creativity caged behind a synthetic wash of sedatives, used to keep the outer realms of consciousness at bay.
He was thinking of lost dreams, trying to remember the night terrors he had as an adolescent, shrieking to the dark wind at something he now couldn’t picture.
“Are you hearing me? They want you to absorb thirty-five percent of losses, covering just the gloves alone. What the fuck were you thinking Gareth?” Eris tapped elegant mechanical hands folded upon the jet black steel table between them.
Gareth looked up, “I was thinking about the narrative. I was trying to find the time.”
“Oh bullshit,” Eris scoffed, “Triarch will be coming through those doors in twelve minutes and thirty-seven seconds, they left me unbriefed.”
Gareth’s glove was still as he sat and tried to ignore Eris. If they wanted him off the restoration sector, then fine. By all means. He would be happy to operate anywhere else. Even containment and corrections were beginning to look bright.
Silence descended between them as they waited for their superiors to arrive, worry twisting their stomachs. Eris was tapping a weathered spot on the back of his right hand, something he always did when he was nervous. Gareth had worked with him for over a century and it was a habit that had never changed. The sound resonated with some part of his stimulant addled brain.
“What was in it, anyways?” Eris finally asked.
Gareth shook his head, “I don’t know, it’s sitting in my laboratory. Mostly data from the airbase we’re passing over.”
Gareth wondered if the LIDAR scans had been completed. There was also the secured safe, which was sitting in his lab. Awaiting his dissection.
Eris shook his head and huffed, “so all this for pretty much–nothing? Fantastic.”
The entrance chimed and Eris stood to attention as a team of deadly looking security gloves guided a smaller administration official into the wide, low chamber.
The one called the Triarch.
The security team dispersed to the corners and entrances of the room and the affluent looking Triarch took his seat. The glove he wore was refined and set him apart from the others, just as it was intended to do. Hand pitted copper inlays and traces of gold glinted in the low lighting of the meeting chamber.
“Eris, please.” Triarch motioned towards the middle edge of the table, where a seat had already manifested from the floor.
“Of course, thank you.” Eris sat, the small nervous tapping of his hand just under the awareness of the rest.
Triarch’s optics focused on Gareth, “this isn’t the first time we’ve met.”
“It is not.” Gareth replied.
“I believe our last meeting was in regards to workplace safety. It feels as if we’re repeating ourselves. Eating our own tail.” Triarch placed both hands flat on top of the table.
“The added layer of chemical security was unexpected, the first time I’ve ever encountered such a modification. Tetrahyrdolytic-M88, a substance used in arc fusion reactors to keep the inside of the reactor free from molecular impurities. This is the first time I’ve seen it used outside of its intended application, if I’m to be honest.”
Triarch’s head twitched to the side, “this is something that would have been discovered, had the proper safety protocols been followed.”
Gareth had no reply. It was unambiguous, he was right as right could be. If they had tapped the outer seal, it would have registered and they could have proceeded in a different manner. Trigam’s way.
A safer way.
“You’ve been behaving as if our resources are infinite,” Triarch began, spreading his hands, “thirteen engineers, the cost of refacing and repairing the research bay, and the resignation of another one of your assistants. All for some comparable data. Where does it end?”
Gareth looked up, meeting Triarch’s opticals, “research requires sacrifice. The advances towards the narrative demand risks and I feel I’ve uncovered a relevant datagem from the airfield we are currently moving through.”
Triarch shook their head, “there are few datagems in our work worth the cost of the damage done today. The war here has already been lost, Yok Theron doesn’t care for the corpuscant he leaves behind. We are in a war, Gareth, that’s the reason we’re out here. To rebuild that which was lost, because we can’t afford to lose more. You’ve been through a lot of gloves, but younger inexperienced workers don’t have the same luxury. There’s a psychological impact, as well as monetary.”
Gareth conceded, “you’re right. I understand, my lack of discipline has been bothering me lately. Eris has given me direction and I will seek further counsel.”
The many lenses on Triarch’s face seemed to focus, “see that it’s done, archeotech. Your debt to the guard is beginning to cast a shadow.”
Triarch stood without warning and collapsed into the middle of his security, as they folded out of the dark door and were out of sight and mind. All meetings were like this, simple and as fast as possible.
“God almighty-,” Eris gasped.
Gareth sat, motionless.
Eris moved from the side of the table to the seat across, as he had been sitting before, “are you in this room? Did you hear what he just said?”
“I’m at the end of my rod, I heard him.”
Eris folded his hands, screeching metal sounding, “as your liaison, I need you to listen to me very carefully, Gareth. You need to focus, for fuck’s sake. Please, I beg of you.”
Gareth glanced down at the orange plastic covering his arms, sleek and dense. He could feel the anger flush through him, his actual skin rippling with heat and potential. So far away, but instant all the same.
“Leave me to my work, I’ll stay down. I promise.”
“Stay in your lab, at least for the next forty-eight hours. As soon as things calm, we can re-task and discuss where we’re at. Does that sound simple and doable, at all, to you?” Eris stood.
“Simple, totally doable.”
“Thank you-,” Eris moved to leave the meeting chamber, walking as if he were surrounded by broken glass, “I’ll catch back up with you in two days.”
Eris turned and exited the opposite door, a wave of air rushing out and away as it whooshed closed.
Gareth sat there for a while, unmoving. There was a small silver fleck of imperfection on the surface of the table and he was focused on it, his mind far away in a place where the pressures of life fell away like a cocoon, the blossom of worry and pain distant and stale.
“Sample D-1 seated and currently awaiting instruction.” Rube’s voice ripped him from the depths he was falling into.
“Initial analyses?” Gareth asked, standing and leaving the dim chamber.
“Grade composition of container: Pb, heavy lead shielding. Weight: 77kg-”.
“Please move the test article to hazard bay 443, I’ll be up shortly.”
Gareth walked through the massive inner structure of the Cube, making his way towards the MOL-44 printers. There would be a printer in the back left, just finishing a small ceramic urn full of ashes. He plucked the perfect white urn from the printing plate and left the upper sectors, making his way down to the bottom of the Cube.
It took two levicors and a small escalating platform, the journey to the usual outer seal he used was long and winding, taking him through the inner bays in a zig-zag pattern. The more random his habits, the more control he felt over his life. When everything was synchronized, unplanned deviation gave a sort of rush. A rush that washed away the sour taste of the meeting he had just sat through.
“Your debts are beginning to cast a shadow.”
Shadows were the result of light and he felt no brightness within. It was all darkness, no definition any longer to navigate.
Focus on the narrative, he thought to himself.
The pain he endured paled in comparison to what these people must have experienced in their final days or hours. The sky ablaze, nuclear death raining down, more bodies than flies. Oceans boiled, the atmosphere sheared off.
The echoes of his wails were nothing against the hurricane.
Gareth had finally reached the bottom level and could see the outer access door still a ways away, lit by a blue runner from above. He glanced down at the small ivory urn, making sure it was still intact. When he looked back up, there was someone standing in front of him, silhouetted in the dark.
Trigam’s voice called out through the cloud, “what do you do out there?”
He was a couple meters away, optics glinting in the low blue light.
Gareth stopped, his heart rate spiking, “what are you doing down here?”
Trigam spread his dark metallic hands and sauntered forward, “making sure you don’t wander off and have an accident. What else?”
Gareth tried to ping Rube, but his local gateway was blocked.
“What’s so important outside, that you would throw away a MK-V research glove? Like it’s scrap.”
Gareth started backing up and bumped into a solid plate of metal. He had walked past two gloves pressed against the walls like waiting vipers uncoiled, both wearing Atlas exoframes normally used in mining and heavy labor. They grabbed him by his arms and legs and raised him up, so that his feet were just off the floor. The sound of squealing and crunching metal and plastic echoed down the dark walkway.
“c15,000, c20,000? What is it? It’s more than MK-III engineers, I know that much.”
Gareth strained against the hold he was in, his small white urn shattering under the struggle. Ash and ceramic shards fell to the floor unnoticed.
“So what is it? Why do you walk out there?” Trigam asked, the angular build of his glove’s face inches away from Gareth’s.
Trigam didn’t allow him to answer, instead he rammed a charged copper spike into the side of Gareth’s neural controller, just inside his breastplate, sending waves of pressurized spasms through his glove and into his body, back in the seed tank billions of miles away. Gareth screamed, but his agony was scattered by the network jammer currently enveloping the small group.
“Everyone said you were brilliant, eccentric. Working with you was something like rediscovering yourself,” Trigam laughed, “I was your slave for eight months and now I’m considering joining Yok.”
Trigam depressed a small switch and the pain spike went dead.
Gareth gasped for air through the feeling of being unwinded, his head spinning and his rage turned ashen and to despair.
“We can’t afford our own debt and we won’t take on yours.”
A short silence fell between them, before Gareth’s legs and right arm were pulled and ripped away from his body. Sparks and caustic hydraulic fluid sprayed in a wide arc, covering the shifting metal of the interior walls.
“Loss is part of the process,” Gareth sighed, “but I wouldn’t expect you to understand that. You never were very good at understanding that.”
Trigam smeared the clear oil along Gareth’s cheek, “you would be the expert of loss as well. Your bitch died and now you try to follow her, but Aetherguard will never let you die. You’re too special to them.”
The Atlas exosuits chomped down into the floor as the two holding Gareth started forward and hauled him towards the access door.
“It’s ten hours until sunrise, I hope you enjoy the little bit of leisure time we’ve bought you.” Trigam said, the access door whooshing open next to him and revealing the pitch dark howling night.
Gareth was tossed, like a dead battery, out into the ivory sand, tumbling end over end as he fell thirteen meters to the ground. The impact jittered his sensor core and his optics began an automatic reset, showing him the massive shifting wall of the Cube upon coming back online. He would give anything to close his eyes, but the pitch black was as close as he would get.
Every actuating joint and stabilizing core was damaged in the assault and now his entire glove vibrated in a kind of mechanical desynchronization. He hoped it would shake itself to pieces before he had to wait the agonizing hours for the star to rise over Kine’s horizon and cook him. The sooner he could get back and report this to Eris, the better his rage would be soothed.
Or so he hoped.
He still had slight control of the right arm they had left him and so he used it to push himself onto his back, face up and exposed to the sky above. His infrared lens gave the cosmos an ethereal shade, so much more to witness when looking outside the normal range. The sight of it all turned his awe to bitterness and guilt at the reminder of the casting away of his physical flesh. Not so much a loss, but a disconnection, controlled and bound by the numbers sworn fealty to as a neophyte. The end result was a sight so magnificent and so replicated it morphed into remorse.
“Rube?”
No answer came, they had damaged his communication module as well it seemed. He was on his own in the desert. He could already see the small search drones, their thermals scanning the glowing sand, looking for an imperfection in a backdrop of white.
When he looked down, the sand tinkled and blazed with the same astigmatism as in the small desk art piece, in Eris’ office. He looked and realized the sand wasn’t crushed silicate, but tiny individual diatomaceous shells, heaped by the trillions. He magnified and marveled at the radiating mass grave of microscopic animals. There was something about this last rape in the environmental brief, but the fact seemed to have slipped away, lost in a trillion other details of calamity.
North was a ridgeline rising out of the dunes, he could try to climb that and then throw himself off when he reached a sufficient height. Perhaps he could cut a few hours off of the current timeline, get back to the Cube and wring necks. The plastics and soft materials of his glove had all already sloughed off, leaving him a mechanical shell crawling across the wasteland, one arm dragging himself along.
Perhaps this was what it felt like, a fraction of the narrative’s suffering.
His neural core was pulsing, the flash of agony on the back of his subconscious reminding him he could feel at all.
He knew it would only be a fraction of what Trigam and his thugs would endure.

I love to crochet but I'm pretty broke; the most expensive yarn I've ever purchased was a 50% off skein of Cotton Kings Sultan for like $10 (and it's so pretty I'm kind of afraid to touch it lol). My stash is mostly acrylic and acrylic blends with some cotton and polyester mixed in and a few hanks of clearance non-superwash merino I bought because my mom wanted a winter scarf and won't wear acrylics.
I really want to make a real, genuine heirloom blanket for my in-laws because they have done so, so much for me and I love them intensely. I want to create something that will last for many years and can be passed down through generations and all that. So I want to use something nicer than I usually use, but I'm not sure what material would be best suited for being long-lasting, soft and beautiful. Most of the nice hand-dyed yarns I've seen online are superwash merinos, is that my best bet? It seems like things like silks and alpaca only come in fingering or lace weight and I don't think I've quite reached the point of insanity of making a lace-weight blanket.

So I wanted to drop in here and recommend the Burt's Bees Calming Serum for minimizing redness and softening skin.
I initially purchased this product a month or two ago when I foolishly forgot to apply sunscreen to my face (this almost never happens in my adulthood - just happened to have one of those days...). I was looking for anything in my local drugstore that would help and wasn't full of chemicals and it seemed the aloe available was a bit sus. I saw this product and decided to give it a shot as it was light and didn't have any ingredients that concerned me. It was so so for the sunburn, but I continued using after, and my skin is so soft and supple lately.
I was using The Ordinary Niacinamide and Buffet with Copper Peptides prior to the sunburn, but I've had better results with just this serum and moisturizer (Weleda Sheer Hydration/Cerave Night Moisturizer) and occasionally some salicylic acid when I have a few pimples pop up. The biggest downside to this product, imo, is the smell. It's honestly terrible, but it goes away pretty quickly after application, but it's pretty gnarly.
Anyway, just wanted to share my experience for any of y'all looking to try a new and inexpensive product!

Imagine stepping out of a warm and relaxing bath or shower, only to be greeted by scratchy and uncomfortable washcloths. That's why having high-quality bath washcloths is so important. Not only do they provide a comfortable and gentle cleansing experience, but they can also help to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin. At Best Vintage Bathroom, we understand the importance of finding the best bath washcloths for your needs, and that's why we've curated a list of the top picks on the market.
Top picks:

1. Best Overall: Utopia Towels Cotton Washcloths
2. Best Budget: Amazon Basics Cotton Washcloths
3. Best Luxury: Chakir Turkish Linen Washcloths
4. Best Organic: Burt's Bees Baby Washcloths
5. Best eco-friendly: Gryeer Bamboo Washcloths

BUYING GUIDE

1. Material: Look for high-quality materials like organic cotton, bamboo, or microfiber for softness and durability.
2. Texture: Consider the texture that suits your preference, whether you prefer plush and fluffy or slightly rougher for gentle exfoliation.
3. Absorbency: Choose washcloths with high absorbency to ensure efficient drying.
4. Size and Pack: Select the size and pack quantity that suits your needs, whether you prefer larger washcloths or value packs.
5. Brand Reputation: Research and choose reputable brands known for producing high-quality bath washcloths.

Read More : best bath washcloths

Ah, the delightful world of chandeliers! These elegant light fixtures have been illuminating homes for centuries, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space. Whether you're looking to jazz up your living room, bedroom, or drawing room, we've got you covered with the trendiest chandelier styles. So, let's dive into the world of chandeliers and discover the perfect fit for each part of your home.
What is a chandelier?
What is a chandelier, you ask? Well, my friend, it's not just any old light fixture. A chandelier is a statement piece that hangs from the ceiling, typically adorned with multiple branches or arms, and decked out with beautiful crystals, glass, or other decorative elements. It's the epitome of elegance and opulence, instantly transforming any room into a stunning visual delight.
Trending chandelier styles for your living room
Now, let's start with the heart of the home, the living room. This is where you entertain guests and spend quality time with your loved ones. For a modern twist, consider a sleek and contemporary chandelier with clean lines and minimalistic design. If you're feeling fancy, go for a crystal chandelier that exudes luxury and creates a mesmerizing play of light. Remember, the living room is all about making a statement, so don't be afraid to let your chandelier shine bright.
Trending chandelier styles for your bedroom
Moving on to the bedroom, where you rest and rejuvenate, you'll want a chandelier that sets a soothing and relaxing ambiance. Opt for a soft, romantic style with delicate crystal droplets or a whimsical design that adds a touch of enchantment. Dimmable lights will allow you to create the perfect atmosphere, whether you're reading a book or enjoying a cozy evening in. Let your chandelier be the dreamy centerpiece of your personal sanctuary.
Trending chandelier styles for your drawing room
Now, let's not forget the drawing room, the place where you showcase your impeccable taste to your guests. A grand, statement chandelier with cascading crystals will instantly elevate the elegance of the room. Or go for a more contemporary approach with an abstract, sculptural chandelier that becomes the focal point of conversation. Remember, the drawing room is your artistic canvas, so choose a chandelier that reflects your unique style and personality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chandeliers are more than just lighting fixtures. They are the crowning jewels of your home, adding charm, glamour, and a touch of magic to every space. From the living room to the bedroom to the drawing room, there's a chandelier style for every part of your home. So, go ahead and light up your life with the perfect chandelier that complements your style and creates an ambiance you'll love.
And hey, if a chandelier doesn't quite fit your vibe, don't fret! You can always consider a fabulous floor lamp to add a touch of whimsy and functionality to any room. But that's a story for another day. Until then, happy chandelier hunting!

When it comes to presenting and storing jewellery, the right packaging can make a world of difference. Jewellery holds immense value, both sentimental and monetary, and it deserves to be showcased in a box that reflects its elegance and allure. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of jewellery packaging and help you understand the importance of selecting the perfect box for your precious gems. From understanding the different types of boxes available to exploring design considerations and the impact on your brand, get ready to embark on a journey to elevate your jewellery packaging to new heights.
1. The Significance of Jewellery Packaging
Jewellery packaging serves multiple purposes beyond simply housing your precious pieces. It acts as the first point of contact with your customer, creating a lasting impression and setting the tone for the overall jewellery-buying experience. A well-designed and thoughtfully crafted jewellery box not only enhances the perceived value of the jewellery but also provides protection, convenience, and a touch of luxury. It adds that extra element of surprise and delight when the recipient opens the box, making the unwrapping experience truly memorable.
2. Types of Boxes for Jewellery Packaging
There is a wide range of jewellery boxes available in the market, each catering to different styles, materials, and price points. Let's explore some of the popular types of boxes commonly used for jewellery package
2.1 Cardboard Jewellery Boxes
Cardboard jewellery boxes are a versatile and cost-effective option. They come in various sizes, colours, and designs, making them suitable for a wide range of jewellery pieces. These boxes are lightweight, easy to customize with branding or logos, and offer adequate protection for most types of jewellery. However, they may not be suitable for high-end or delicate pieces that require extra protection.
2.2 Velvet or Suede Boxes
Velvet or suede boxes exude elegance and sophistication. These boxes are often used for fine jewellery or luxury brands, as they provide a luxurious feel and enhance the overall presentation of the jewellery. Velvet or suede-lined interiors protect delicate gemstones and metals from scratches or damage. These boxes are available in various shapes, sizes, and colours, allowing for customization and personalization.
2.3 Wooden Jewellery Boxes
Wooden jewellery boxes are known for their timeless appeal and durability. They are often handcrafted and intricately designed, adding a touch of artisanal craftsmanship to the packaging. Wooden boxes offer excellent protection, especially for high-end jewellery pieces. They can be customized with engravings, carvings, or personalized messages, making them a popular choice for heirloom jewellery or special occasions.
2.4 Acrylic or Plastic Boxes
Acrylic or plastic boxes are a modern and sleek option for jewellery packaging. They provide a transparent display that allows the jewellery to take centre stage. These boxes are lightweight, durable, and often stackable, making them convenient for storage and transportation. Acrylic or plastic boxes are commonly used for fashion jewellery or trendy pieces, where the focus is on showcasing the designs rather than luxurious packaging.
3. Design Considerations for Jewellery Boxes
When selecting a box for jewellery packaging, it's essential to consider the design elements that align with your brand and target audience. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
3.1 Branding and Customization
Your jewellery box is an opportunity to showcase your brand identity and create a cohesive brand experience. Consider incorporating your logo, brand colours, or unique design elements that align with your brand aesthetics. Customization can elevate the perceived value of the jewellery and leave a lasting impression on the recipient.
3.2 Size and Compartments
Choose a box size that accommodates your jewellery
Pieces comfortably. If you offer a range of jewellery sizes, consider having boxes with different compartments or inserts to keep the pieces organized and prevent tangling or scratching. Customizable inserts or dividers can be added to ensure a snug fit for each piece.
3.3 Materials and Finishes
The choice of materials and finishes for your jewellery box can significantly impact its overall aesthetic appeal. Consider materials such as velvet, silk, satin, or leather for a luxurious touch. Finishes like embossing, foil stamping, or glossy coatings can add a premium feel to the box.
4. The Impact on Your Brand
Jewellery packaging plays a vital role in shaping your brand image and customer perception. A well-designed and thoughtfully crafted box reinforces the quality, value, and attention to detail associated with your brand. It enhances the overall unboxing experience and creates a sense of anticipation and excitement. Investing in high-quality packaging communicates your brand's commitment to excellence and leaves a lasting impression on customers.
5. Conclusion:
Selecting the perfect box for jewellery packaging is a critical decision that can elevate your brand and delight your customers. Consider the type of jewellery you offer, your target audience, and your brand aesthetic when choosing a box. Remember, the packaging is an extension of your jewellery and the experience you want to create for your customers. By investing in high-quality and thoughtfully designed jewellery boxes, you can enhance the perceived value of your jewellery, create a memorable unboxing experience, and strengthen your brand image.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I choose the right size of jewellery box? Choosing the right size of a jewellery box depends on the dimensions and types of jewellery pieces you offer. Consider the size of the largest piece and select a box that provides enough space to comfortably accommodate it.
   
2. Can I customize jewellery boxes with my brand logo? Yes, many packaging suppliers offer customization options, including printing your brand logo, tagline, or other design elements on the jewellery boxes.
   
3. Are wooden jewellery boxes suitable for all types of jewellery? Wooden jewellery boxes are suitable for various types of jewellery, especially high-end pieces. However, for delicate or extremely valuable jewellery, it's recommended to include additional protective measures within the box.
   
4. What are some eco-friendly options for jewellery packaging? If sustainability is a priority, consider eco-friendly packaging materials such as recycled cardboard or biodegradable options. Many suppliers now offer environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
   
5. How can I ensure the jewellery box provides adequate protection? Opt for boxes with soft interior linings like velvet or suede. Additionally, you can use foam inserts or individual compartments to secure and protect each piece of jewellery within the box.