Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck †Main Character Essay

In the book Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, the main character is faced with an extremely difficult situation and decision. George Milton ends up killing Lennie Smalls, the man who he had been traveling with for years. He is forced to kill Lennie for his own good. It is arguable that George had selfish reasons for the murder but Lennie was his family, his companion. He would never do such a thing for personal gain. Lennie was a nice guy, and he never meant any harm. However, he always ended up getting into trouble or doing â€Å"bad things†. All of this often angered George, who fantasizes about what he could have been doing if Lennie weren’t weighing him down. For example, when the men were working in Weed, Lennie had them hiding in an irrigation ditch overnight because he frightened a woman. He gripped on to her dress, giving her the impression that he was trying to hurt her. Lennie of course didn’t mean any harm, he just enjoyed petting soft things. All of the inconveniences to George would give the impression that Mr. Milton would actually want Lennie dead. This was not the case. George cared for Lennie like he was family. The promise he made with Lennie’s Aunt Clara is just what brought them together. This can be seen when George and Lennie talk about their dream, Lennie says â€Å"because I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that’s why†(14). At the end of the novel, George is left with only two choices: let Lennie be tortured and killed by the other men, or kill him on his own†¦ a quick and painless death. Of course he does not want Lennie to suffer, so he does it on his own. And it clearly was not easy. The quote from the book â€Å"George raised the gun and his hand shook, and he dropped his hand to the ground again†(105) further supports this. George’s shaking hand proves how difficult it was to let go of a long time friend. Slim is one of the few people who understand their relationship. He was the only one who George confided in telling about what happened in Weed. At the very end, after the shooting, Slim says to George â€Å"You hadda, George. I swear you hadda†(107). Slim knows what a hard decision it was for George to go through with such a terrible task, but it had to be done. They both knew that poor Lennie would have otherwise suffered through the torture and slow death brought about by Curley. The character George Milton from the book Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck was not selfish. Any reason he had for the killing of Lennie was definitely not devoted to himself, but instead out of care and love for his friend. Both mean often spoke of how lonely it was to live the life of a rancher. So Lennie’s being as George’s companion and basically family overruled any want that George would ever have to hurt him. The death brought about to Lennie for his own good.

How two businesses are organised Essay

In this assignment I will be discussing about how two businesses are organised. The two businesses that I will be discussing about is BHP Billiton and Battersea Dogs and Cats home. The first business that I will be discussing about is BHP Billiton and how they have organised their business.BHP Billiton is an Anglo-Australian multinational mining, metals and petroleum company headquarter in Melbourne. BHP Billiton is the world’s largest mining company measured by 2013 revenue. It was created in 2001 through the merger of the Australian Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited. The first way BHP Billiton is divided into is within the function. Within BHP Billiton the function is the Chief Development Officer who is in charge of development of the company and researches about countries that BHP Billiton has not mined in. chief Financial Officer who is in charge of finance of the business. The Chief Legal Counsel is the person is who is responsible for the legal issue within the business; this is done by meeting the legal requirements for a particular business. The Group Vice President Human Resources is responsible for the people management within a business. Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer is the person who is responsible within making sure that the business meets their customer needs, they also make sure that they also meet their business needs, this is done by making sure the business has the right quality of product, the price of the product and also by advertising their product to attract the target market which are the customers. BHP Billiton is organised by the product group. These roles consist of the President Petroleum, this is the person who is responsible for all the extraction of the petroleum, the Senior Minerals Executive, and this is the person who is responsible for all the minerals collected from the mining. President Energy Coal, this is the person who is responsible for collecting the coal. President Carbon Steel Materials, this is person who is responsible for making of the carbon steel. The second business that I will be discussing about is Battersea Dogs and Cats home is the United Kingdom’s oldest and most famous home for dogs and  cat and is situated in the Battersea area of London. It is financed by voluntary donations with an income of almost  £12.2million in 2010. The main aim of the business is to reunite dogs and cats with their owners and work in a community to educate people about responsibility of ownership. Battersea Dogs and Cats home has only one organised structure which is function also known as department, there is 9 functions within this organisation. This consist of Director of Education and Events, this is the person who is responsible for doing events for the business for the company to have the attention and awareness for people to donate. This is also done by going into schools to educate kids about on how to take care of animals and the responsibility they will have for the animal. Director of Communications, this is the person in the company who is responsible for the communication of media contact for the organisation and giving a better value of the company. Director of Finance is the person who is responsible for making sure that all the donations that come in for the business are recorded and kept safe, they also make decision for the finance of the business and how it should be dealt with. Director of Human Resources is the person who is responsible for the person’s management within the business. Director of Estates and Facilities, this is the person who is responsible for making sure that the business has the right facilities for the business that will be able to take care of the animals. Director of Fundraising, this is the person who is responsible for arranging fundraising events so that people can donate money for the business. Director of Operations (Customer Service), this is person who is responsible for customer complaints and enquires. Director of Operations (Animal Welfare) this is the person who is responsible for the welfare of the animal and also the safety of the animal. Director of Veterinary Services, this is the person who is responsible for the medical and health of the animal. The Line of Control is an individual who is responsible for the line of management. BHP Billiton has used the line of manager. For example BHP Billiton have done this by having the ‘Top down’ approach this means that the manager of the company such as the CEO are at the top are responsible for everyone who works within the business. This is done by making sure that all the staffs is doing the right job and if everything is up to high standard. The line of control for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has four lines of control and 18 spans of control. The  staff and employees report to the managers and the managers will report to the director. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home also have a 3 layer structure, this works by the Chief Executive informing the directors on what they have to do for the business and then they will pass on the information to the managers so that they are then able to pass on to their staffs and volunteers. Within these two businesses I will be looking at those four different ways in dividing work within the organisation which are the following: 1) Function 2) Geographical location 3) Product groups 4) Types of customers The first organisational structure is function. This is when the people who in the department are divided up what their purpose in the company are, for example marketing. The second organisational structure is geographical location, this is the people who work in the company are divided up by where they work, or what area of the country/world they look after. The third organisational structure is product groups, this is the people who work for the company are divided up by what they produce or look after in the company. The four and last organisational structure is type of customers, this is the people who work in the company are divided up by which type of customers their job related for, for example individual customers or business customers. Within these four organisational structure BHP Billiton only two of these structures. The first structure is Function; this is the area that is responsible for a particular job in the department such as finance, development officers, petroleum, and legal counsel, vice president of Human Resources, Vice President of Marketing, President of Metals and Carbon Steel Materials. However Battersea Dogs and Cats Home only have one of these organisational structures. The type of organisational structure they have is function but have are divided into nine groups, this is the director of communications, Director of Education and Events, Director of Finance, Director of Estate and Facilities, Director of Human Resources, Director of Fundraising, Director of Operations (Animal Welfare) and Director of Operations (Customer Service). BHP Billiton Chart for their Business BHP Billiton has this hierarchy structure to present their business as they have a more of a wider range of employees that work within departments and businesses. The charts show us how each employee works in the business and what their job role is. Battersea Dogs and Cats home chart for their Business Battersea Dogs and Cats Home have used a more of a flat structure to represent their business. The organisational structure that has been used to represent this chart is function and also has been used to be divided in nine groups which have been shown in the chart. Span of Control: A span of control is the number of people who report to one manager in a hierarchy. The span of control has been used in each business, for example the span of control has been used in BHP Billiton as they only have 5 span of control which has different departments reporting to the CEO or Deputy CEO, this is why in the hierarchy it shows a structure of how the role has been played and has a wider range. The span of control has also been used in Battersea Dogs and Cats Home as the structure consist of 18 spans of control but has been divided into 9 departments with the staff and volunteer which report to the manager and inform about how the business is doing. Functional Areas: BHP Billiton Production/operations function: The production functional area is the part of a business where goods are produced, manufactured or assembled. Some businesses especially those that don’t product good but instead provide services, call this area ‘operations’. BHP Billiton does this by making sure that staff is working effectively to meet their production service targets. They can also do this by making sure their product is up to date and are high standard of good quality so that they are able to be sold to customers around the world. Marketing Function: The marketing function area is the part of the business that identified and tries to meet customer’s needs. They will also try and ensure their business  has the product, price and advertising that will appeal to their target customers. BHP Billiton can do this by carrying put market research to find out what new products customer wants. They can also do this by making sure they reach their target markets and to achieve their aim. Human Resources: The Human Resources functional area is responsible for people management in a business. This can be done by making policies about people in the business for example about the workplace safety. BHP Billiton can do this by recruit employees that are related to a particular job role and to make sure that the health and safety for staff is always there. Purchasing: The purchasing functional area is the part of the business that is responsible for buying all of the supplies the business needs to run effectively. This includes office supplies like paper and stationary but also the raw materials used for production. This can be done by buying goods for the company. BHP Billiton can do this by finding suppliers who are reliable and can supply good quality. Sales: The sales of functional area are the part of a business that gets customers to buy or consume what the business produces. In some businesses, the sales functional area is a part of the marketing functional area. Marketing staff find out what customers wants. Sales staff needs to get customers to buy the product. BHP Billiton can do this by managing the sales team making sure that their product are being sole and to also develop strong positive relationship with customers. Finance: The finance functional area is responsible for keeping records of financial transaction and giving managers the information they need to make decisions about the business. It is important that managers are aware of the financial situation of the business so that they can consider the effects decisions they will make will have on the business finance. BHP Billiton can do this by producing annual account statements and providing financial information to management. Customer service: The customer service functional area is the part of the business that looks  after customer enquiries, concerns and complaints. BHP Billiton can do this by answering customer’s enquiries and complaint they have about the business. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home Functional Areas: Battersea Dogs and Cat Home have only six functional areas, this includes; Human Resources, Customer Service, Sales, Finance, Marketing and Production/Operation. Human Resources: The human resources functional area is responsible for people management in a business they make policies and rules about the business for the people, for example the health and safety and to help recruit people into the business. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home can run induction training for all new volunteers and also staff training to update product knowledge about new products in the shop. Finance: The finance functional area is responsible for keeping records of financial transaction ad providing information to managers to make decisions about the business. This is important for managers to be aware of their financial records. For example with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is they provide the Chief Executive with cash flow statements showing donation income and expenses and to also provide the CEO with annual revenue and sales data. Customer Service: Customer service functional area is the part of the business area that looks after customer enquiries, concerns and complaints. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home will do this by having a customer service for customers to ask any question they want about the business and to also give complaints and concerns about the business Production/Operations function: The production functional area is part of the business where goods are produced, manufactured or assembled. Staffs are required to meet their production or service targets. Some businesses that do not produce goods but instead provide services, is called ‘operations’. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home will make sure that products are in stock for the Battersea shop and the online shop. Sales: The sales functional area is part of the business that gets customers to buy or consume what the business produces. In some businesses, the sales functional area is part of the marketing functional area. Marketing staff find out what customers want sales needs to persuade customers in to buying their products. In non-profit voluntary organisations (like charities) that provide their products or services for free, there is no need for sales functions area, to convince donors to donate to organisation. Battersea Dogs and Cat Home will do this by having volunteers work for their business and customers that donate for the business. Marketing Function: The marketing functional area is the part of the business that identifies and tries to meet customer needs. They will also try and ensure their business has the product, price and advertising that will appeal to their target customers. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home will do this by speaking at a local secondary school to encourage the student council to raise money and to also produce leaflets explaining how people can donate at home. Explain each functional area role in the business and how it helps to achieve their aims and objective: BHP Billiton: Human resources at BHP Billiton will include by running induction training for all new staff and staff training to update product knowledge about new products in the shop. The managers will do this by giving the same aim to all the staff and to make sure they are all doing their job right. The objective and aim of Human resources for BHP Billiton is to make sure they make profit for their business as the will also achieve their business aim. Customer service at BHP Billiton will include answeringcustomer’s enquiries and customer complaints and services. They use customer service surveys to find out what customers think of service in the shop. The objective and aim of customer service at BHP Billiton is to make sure they answer customer enquiries and complaint and to make sure they provide this service to customers. Finance at BHP Billiton is to keep up to date with their financial profit and how much they are making. They will provide the Chief Executive with cash flow statements showing donation income and expenses and to also provide the CEO with annual revenue and sales data. The objective  and aim of BHP Billiton with finance is that they will keep records of all the profits they are making and having a cash flow chart to show how much they have progressed throughout the year. Marketing at BHP Billiton is to try and meet their customer needs and will also make sure their business has the right product and price. They will also analyse data to identify and target customers. The objective and aim of BHP Billiton with marketing is that they will sell their product globally to customers and will market their products to other business to sell to customers in their shop. Production/Operation at BHP Billiton is where the goods are produced, manufactured or assembled. Staffs are required to meet their production or service targets, make sure raw materials and services are variable managing staff. Make sure that products are in stock for the BHP Billiton and the online shop. The objective and aim of BHP Billiton of production is to give good service to customers and to make sure the product of their service is high quality. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home: Human resources for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home will include staff training to update product knowledge about new products in the shop and to also run induction training for all new volunteers, they will also make sure that all animals have a shelter and are looked after properly. The aims and objectives of human resources is by making sure that every staff that works in the business knows what they are doing and are sure of what to do so that the business goes well. The aim of this is that they will be a good service for the customers when donating to the business. Customer service at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is that they ae able to answer customer enquiries and complaints. This is by having good customer service towards the customers. To use customer service surveys to find out what customers think of service in the shop. The objective and aims of customers service is that they are able to have high standards of services for the customers so that they are able to give their en quiries to the business. The aim of having good customer service is that they will be able to have more customer awareness as they will improve their service with their opinion. Sales at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is that customers get to buy what the business provides, this is also by having the organisation and raising money for charity. They can do this by setting up events to raise money and donate to  their business and the animal welfare. They can also do this by speaking at local secondary school to encourage the student council to raise money. The aims and objectives of Sales is that you are able to raise and donate money to the business. This will increase their profile around the UK. Finance at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is that you can keep records of the business financial situations; they will also be able to see annual money that they are making every month and year. To also provide the Chief Executive with cash flow statements showing donation income and expenses. The aims and objectives of finance is that you are able to provide the CEO with annual revenue and data and also be able to keep records of all the donations made. The aim of sales with Battersea Dogs and Cats home is that to sell as many of their products that they can and to also make profit for their business. Marketing at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home tries to meet customer needs; they will produce promotional information to advertise what the business does and to produce leaflets explaining how people can donate at home. The aims and objectives of marketing is that the manager can analyse market to identify and target customers and to make sure the website is updated regularly to inform people about animals that are waiting for adoption. The aim of marketing with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is that to market their product to customers by making their website look more attractive. Production/Operation, where goods are produced or assembled, with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is that they make it easier for the customer to donate to the business. P4 – how organisational structure and strategic planning help BHP Billiton and The Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to achieve their purpose and aims. Strategic planning is the process executives undertake in order to make thoughtful decisions about their organisation mission, value and goals, and properly allocate resources to fulfil directives. A business aim is the goal a business wants to achieve. A primary aim for all business organisations is to add value and in the private sector this involves making a profit. More strategic aims include expansion, market leadership and brand building. A business objective is a detailed picture of a step you plan to take in order to achieve a stated aim. These need to be SMART in order for the business to know what progress it has made towards achieving the  objective. Mission/Purpose Statement for BHP Billiton: Mission statement: At BHP Billiton our objective is to be the company of choice – creating sustainable value for our shareholders, employees, contractors, suppliers, customers, business and host communities. We aspire to zero arm to people, our host communities and the environment and strive to achieve leading industry. Value: Sustainability – putting health and safety first, being environmentally responsible and supporting our communities. Integrity- doing what is right and doing what we say we will do. Respect – embracing openness, trust, teamwork, diversity and relationships that are mutually beneficial. .The aim of BHP Billiton is to create long-term value through the discovery, acquisition, development and marketing of natural resources. The three objectives of BHP Billiton: To own and operate large, long-life and low cost mines and minerals processing that produce a range of minerals for different customers around the world. To invest and develop large mineral deposits that of high quality that can create profit growth To market products to customers globally from to main marketing offices at The Hague in the Netherlands and Singapore. Mission/purpose statement of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home: Mission statement: We aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of our help, caring for them until their owners or loving new homes can be found, no matter how long it takes. We are champions for, and supporters of, vulnerable dogs and cats, determined to create lasting changes for animals in our society. Value: We ae passionate about the welfare of dogs and cats, and all of our work is inspired by the needs of, and our love for animals. We have been working tirelessly to provide shelter for animals for over 150 years. We are one of the oldest animal charities in the world and the knowledge and experience we have gained has made us credible leaders in our field We deal with some of the most challenging situations that impact the lives of dogs and cats. We  seek to tackle problems at source by working actively with communities and wider society, challenging misconceptions and encouraging owners to take responsibility for their pets and treat animals humanely. We will not shy away from difficult issues. The aim of Battersea Dogs and Cats Homes is to develop and measure our standards of care and service and to expand our services to help more dogs and cats in need. Three objectives of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home: To expand their people so that more people are aware of their organisation To encourage more people to volunteer for their organisation To raise more money for their organisation Cascading objectives is the objective set on the top which flows down into departments to individuals. BHP Billiton: BHP Billiton would cascaded throughout their organisation by setting themselves to make as certain amount of metals bars therefore they would tell each department to make sure they make the metals within the certain time period. BHP Billiton focuses on increasing productions and reducing cost. They cascaded throughout their business by making a certain amount of profit each day with the products that they are selling. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home: Battersea Dogs and Cats Home would cascade throughout their organisation by setting an aim of how much money has been donated to them and how much dogs and cats they will want to sell every month. They would cascade by fundraising money into their business. SMART objectives: All businesses need to set objectives, objectives are important they focus organisation. Businesses that have specific aims are usually more successful than those that don’t; because a business with objectives knows what it is trying to achieve. SMART TARGETS: Specific – Measurable – Achievable – Realistic and Time Scaled The benefits for smart objectives are to give a target to aim to, ensuring that all marketing actions and efforts are focused on attaining the objective instead of being inefficiently used. They also give businesses and their staff a sense of direction, a glimpse of where they’re going to. This will benefit businesses as they are able to set themselves a goal. The organisational structure for each business helps them achieve their purpose and aims are by making sure that they reach their goals and to reach the purpose of their business. For BHP Billiton the organisational structure would be by making sure that managers employee people who understand their role within the company. One method that BHP Billiton can use for their organisational structure is by setting up departments covering the four main areas of business activity such as, the finance, human resources, marketing and operations. BHP Billiton also organise their business with organisation chars, these diagrams that show internal structure of the business. They make it easy to identify the specific roles and responsibilities. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home use organisational structure to help them achieve their purpose and aims is by making sure that all their employees are doing the entire right job and are serving their customers in the right way. To reach their aims they will give each employee a specific job roles and responsibilities. A method that Battersea Dogs and Cats Homes can use to organise their business is by having different functions so that their business is organised in a way that could be understood. It is important for a business organisation to plan strategic aims and objectives. This is because the aims and objectives are the ‘ends’ that an organisation seeks to achieve. It then has to decide the means it will use to achieve those ends draw up a plan and devise strategy. Many organisations have general or overall aims which they can break down into specific objectives, or targets. By setting aims and objectives, companies give themselves a sense of purpose  and direction. This will provide a framework around which creates their plans. With a particular plan in place, the company will then be able to set particular targets and monitors its progress towards reaching them. The aims of both business are different as they both try to achieve different aims such as BHP Billiton try to achieve their aim by producing more goods such as metal and mining. Whereas, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home achieve their aim by helping animals have a home and are safe. Both of these businesses are different as they have different ownerships and purpose within their business.

German History Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

German History - Coursework Example Other aspects of Romanticism included basic education, natural science and political impact. There are a number of reasons that led to the emergence and development of Romanticism in Germany as outlined below. (a) Increase in the interest in foreign literature and philosophy after the 1800. The Germans were eager to get in touch with literary works from other countries such as the United States and other European countries. (b) Romanticism was regarded in Germany as a form of human philosophy. This is because it elevated the right of individual at the center of every activity as well as promoting general respect for human capabilities in the country. Industrial Revolution was greatly picking up in Germany so Romanticism emerged as a way of advocating for human rights and speaking against the ever rising materialism in the country. (c) Increased dissatisfaction with the inadequacy witnessed in spirituality by the existing religions led to the rise of Romanticism. Some people in Germany felt that the void could only be filled by art and visual expressions (Hagen, 36) Hannah is a German born writer and a political theorist. She was lived in the period between 1906 and 1975. She has been described as a great philosopher who declined the title on the grounds that the term is mainly concerned with men and instead she opted to be referred as a political theorist. Her works mainly majored on the nature of power, democracy in the current world, political subjects, totalitarianism and authority at various levels. The Hannah Arendt prize has been named in her honor and to commemorate her great contributions. Some of her books include The Origins of Totalitarianism which gave an account of the origin and emergence of Nazism and Stalinism. The human condition was her most influential work that focused on politics, society and various theories developed by other earlier scholars on labor and politics.

Critical thinking paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Critical thinking paper - Essay Example The government clearly has the full influence to effectively reduce the cost for healthcare without compromising its quality at the same time. There are basic principles in the economy that can be applied by the government in order to obtain appropriate balance between cost-effective care and quality care. One basic principle is the idea of supply and demand. It is noted that when the demand of a product or service is high, then the tendency is to increase its price because the bottom line would be to have deficit on supply. However, in order to counteract this basic principle it is important to increase supply of service or product amidst its prevailing high demand. This is to ensure that the price of a certain product or service which is high in demand will still be at its stability level. The same principle can be applied in health care. The issue is significantly to balance its being cost effective and its quality. The government therefore must encourage more health care providers including health care insurance firms in order to significantly meet the need of cost effective care but with quality. In this case, the gov ernment therefore is encouraging more competition among health care providers. When there is competition, the health care providers therefore would try to increase the quality of their offered services but not at the expense of customers. Each provider will encourage consumers to go for their service by enticing them with a good quality service at affordable price. The simple rule here is to basically increase supply so as not to affect the price. Fair competition therefore is needed. Consumers must significantly have to choose several health plans for instance. This will give providers incentives for cost-effective approach (van de Ven, 253). With regards to this move, competition will surely arise between groups of providers,

Essay 3 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

3 - Essay Example In the environment, particularly one such as an island, most of the ecological niches are usually unoccupied. In the new ecosystem, the species have to evolve and adapt first if they want to survive. In the process of adapting, the species may change so much that in the end it becomes a different species. This is when the species is said to be going through convergent evolution. Convergent evolution refers to the process where unrelated species evolve into similar uniqueness the due to environmental pressures (Wilson 100). Therefore, the process of adaptive radiation takes place when the new species has to evolve so as to make use of the available ecological niches. It is crucial to note that adaptive radiation occurs when the species are under high pressure in the new environment. It is also crucial to note that when adaptive radiation occurs speciation does not take place consciously (Wilson 118). In speciation process, new species are formed. Animals in the new environment are never conscious when adapting into new species. Additionally, in the environment, evolutionary development of adaptive radiation only occurs mostly in animals and a few times in plants. This is because plants do not disperse in new environments like the

Consumer Buyer Behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Consumer Buyer Behaviour - Essay Example (2011). FORBES NAMES NIKE MOST VALUABLE BRAND IN SPORTS. Available at http://business.transworld.net/74449/news/forbes-names-nike-most-valuable-brand-in-sports/ [Accessed on Dec 17th 2012] The global pc market share has observed some extraordinary changes observed by different brands in terms of their market share and revenue. Lenovo has emerged as a global leader in market share in third quarter of 2012 (Gartner, 2012). On the other hand, US PC Vendor market has seen no significant difference in 2012. HP holds the number one spot with 25% of market share followed by Dell and Apple with 21.7% and 12.0% market share. Apple is still the most desired brand of computers in the world but the price of their products restricts major population from acquiring it. Global television market is a very competitive market with so many brands fighting to gain the maximum share in the market. Korea-based companies are still the number in the world television manufacturer with overall 20% market share going to Samsung and 9% to Sony (Displaybank, 2012). In this section, we are going to discuss the current television market trends in global market and the market share of different companies in 2011. Data Source: Displaybank (2012). Result of Flat-panel TV Shipment in 2011 - Korea Leads, China Rapidly Progresses, Japan Slows. Available at http://www.displaybank.com/_eng/share/press_view.html?id=225804 [Accessed on Dec 17th 2012]. With the financial crisis throughout Europe, British Banking sector has become more focused towards its core features (Pettinger T., 2011). Banking sector has a great value in the overall GDP and national output of the nation as mentioned by Pettinger T. (2011). Banking sector alone contributes as much as  £70 billion to the overall output of the country. In terms of tax, the percentage goes to 25% corporation tax which is estimated around  £8 billion. This analysis has a huge impact over the customer trust on different banks and

What Impact Has Corporate Power Had On The Social World Essay

What Impact Has Corporate Power Had On The Social World - Essay Example To meet this desire of the stakeholders most of the corporate houses have a specified set of social goals which is treated as a part of the overall business activities. Nowadays, the objectives of the business can no more be limited to achieving business profits. It cannot be considered as a ‘money generating machine’ set up with the sole purpose of profit generation. Previously, the businesses were established with some short term goals with little concern for the long term scenario. However, in the current environment the focus of the business has shifted from short term to long term perspective. This renewed focus is beneficial for the companies as well as the society in general. In fact the businesses now play a significant role in the society. They take part in a number of social activities. The companies direct a significant amount of funds towards achieving the social needs. The funds are used for the development of schools, institutions, parks, etc. The big corporate houses sponsor sports and cultural programs. The corporate actively indulge in functions other than pursuing their business interests. The companies thus play an important role in the development of the society. Various factors in the society have led to the creation of a climate that foster the criticism and prosperity of the business. While some of these factors are inter-related yet again there are some factors that are independent. Affluence and Education- The two factors- education and affluence have developed alongside. The empowerment of the society has raised the expectations from institutions like the businesses. Affluence includes aspects like wealth level, disposable income and living standard of the society. The measures of standard of living in US suggest a continuous growth over the decades however this growth has curtailed in the last five years. Besides a rising standard of living an improvement in the formal education has also raised the expectations of the society. A combination of these factors has laid the foundations of a society that encourages criticisms of the business. Increased awareness through internet and television- Though the reach of the print media is limited , the electronic media i.e. television is accessible to a wider populace. The television facilitates transmission of the information to wider audiences thereby creating an environment of business criticism. News programs The business criticism appears on the electronic media in three ways. Firstly, this is through the news shows and investigative programs. A study conducted by the â€Å"Corporate Reputation Watch† senior executives highlights that media criticism and irresponsible or unethical behavior can be a serious threat to the reputation of a company. While a majority of the business leaders are of the view that the news programs are against them and therefore overstate the facts and exaggerate the issue but the journalist see it in a different light. The

A Prescriptive Agenda for School Restructuring Essay

A Prescriptive Agenda for School Restructuring - Essay Example In their study School Restructuring as a Policy Agenda, Mussoline and Shouse (2001) highlights this relationship - between school restructuring and their consequent effect - by asking, "[t]o what extent should one expect the technical reforms linked to restructuring to produce consistent achievement effects across all types of schools" (p. 45). Taking a similar position, this essay will argue that school restructuring will not be successful, especially in less affluent schools with low socioeconomic status, if restructuring practices are reduced to a list of prescriptive policy agendas imposed upon schools due to the effect contextual factors have on the success and eventual outcome of restructuring. Looking into the literature of school reform, there has been numerous practice identified by different schools of thought outlining ways for restructuring schools. From such literature, it is apparent that each restructuring practice have its own set of requirements for successful implementation. On the other hand, each school also has its own set of organizational and instructional characteristics that determine its ability to implement changes within the overall school structure which affect the effectiveness of school restructuring (p. 47). ... and Murphy's study entitled "The Social contest of Effective Schools," Mussoline and Shouse identifies principal-teacher relations, decision-making, and parental involvement as factors that distinguishes a school's organizational and instructional capabilities (Mussoline and Shouse, 2001, 47). These factors also distinguish schools between high and low socioeconomic statuses (SES). According to Shouse, given the distinction between schools with low and high SES, there are certain kinds of restructuring practices that did not yield the same beneficial results when implemented in low SES schools if compared to schools with high SES (p. 48). Contextual factors therefore have a hand in altering the effects of restructuring practices among schools with low SES. Hence, it is only logical to conclude that prescribing a single policy agenda for school restructuring may not be beneficial for the school system, in general, and for low SES schools, in particular, if not all schools can positive ly benefit from the prescribed restructuring practices. Contextual factors have significant effects on school restructuring in two ways: first, given the lack of social resources among low SES schools, these schools do not have the necessary safety nets present among high SES schools that reduces the risks of flawed, poorly executed, or highly complex instructional practices (p. 49). As Mussoline and Shouse argues, schools with high SES have more responsive students that increases the positive effects from restructured practices, especially those that prescribe constructivist and student-centered reforms. In addition, the academically oriented support structures present in these communities also helps reinforce the restructuring practices being implemented. Together, student

Bathsheba and Fanny Essay Example for Free

Bathsheba and Fanny Essay She later married him after he had ordered the killing of her husband. We can relate this story back to the character of Bathsheba Everdene by saying that she was willing to marry someone who she did not love, but for security, like what happened to her with Boldwood and Troy. Not surprisingly though, being so independent she does not rate marriage very highly, I should not mind being a bride at a wedding if I could be without having a husband. This shows us that she is not very keen on the love and marriage scene. Her surname Everdene can also be linked into how she saw herself a fair product of nature and as the meaning of her surname suggests just this, by its meaning: Timeless qualities of nature. This may also have relevant as to where she felt most comfortable, where she did not have to act or have to impress anyone. I think her surname shares a link to the real Bathsheba, the hardworking, independent, country girl, this is why she was so successful in the managing of her uncles farm. It gave her a chance to unwind and clear her mind from all the turmoil that surrounded her constantly. Hardy is not the only person who tells us about Bathsheba. Other characters also make statements about her, she is so good looking and an excellent scholar, we are told this by her aunt, she says this to try and stop Gabriel from proposing marriage to Bathsheba early in the book. Troy also tells us about Bathsheba as well, I said you were beautiful and Ill say so still, by so you are. Troy says this to flatter her and to seduce her; unfortunately Bathsheba is weak in this sense and is easily flattered, so she falls for Troy. Although, in saying this, by the end of the novel she reveals an inner strength which is demonstrated by her being able to endure troy and Fanny being buried together and by her keeping Fannys lock of hair as a momenta of the poor girl. It is this inner strength which illuminates her need and love for Gabriel, who has remained true and loyal to her throughout her progress. On the other end of the social scale we are told of Fanny Robin, she is a direct contrast to Bathsheba: she is blonde and fragile while Bathsheba is dark and lively. She is portrayed as a shadowy figure adding mystery to the plot. We first meet Fanny in chapter seven, in Weatherbury churchyard where she will finally be buried. We are told that When abreast of a trunk, which appeared to be the oldest of the old, he became aware that a figure was standing behind it. This quote shows us that Fanny was a shy girl and that she did not want to be noticed by anyone if she could help it. Hardy evokes sympathy for Fanny when she and Gabriel meet for the first time, as Gabriel notices that she is rather weak and vulnerable. I am rather poor and I dont want people to know anything about me, Then she was silent and shivered. Fanny clearly wants to go unnoticed and she appears to be cold and undernourished which would lead us to believe that she was probably unemployed and very poor. Gabriel feeling sorry for Fanny offers her a shilling Yes, I will take it. Fanny accepts the shilling like a child would a sweet. Like Bathsheba, Fanny can also act unconventionally, for example when she runs off to marry Troy although she is depicted as a vulnerable girl in a hostile landscape. This is effective in that it draws the readers sympathy for Fanny because of her weak stature and the harsh surroundings that she had to cope with each day. Ironically though her letter rejoicing in her forthcoming marriage is somewhat naive and premature. Through this Hardy again evokes sympathy and pity for Fanny when she muddles the churches and faces Troys fury, but this is what Troy needed; a chance to abandon Fanny and marry his rich and beautiful mistress, but unknown to Troy, Fanny is pregnant and destitute. Fanny is a victim of circumstance, a shadowy presence who reveals Troys fickleness when he flirts with Bathsheba. Fanny would now be frowned upon due to the fact that she was pregnant and was giving birth to an illegitimate child, although this was not her fault she would still have faced prejudice. This, also draws sympathy from the readers for Fanny because it is a problem that faces women in even our modern world today. So, Fanny conceals her pregnancy and supports herself as a seamstress until she goes to Casterbridge workhouse to have her baby. I personally feel sympathy for Fanny in this situation because she could have gone to Troy and demanded that he take care of her and the unborn baby, but she didnt, and in doing so showed that she had respected Troys decision to marry Bathsheba. She realised how her social status and upbringing would have affected Troy, and in doing so she left him alone. I think this shows great courage and unselfish behaviour from a woman who had so little, but yet payed the ultimate price. Hardy evokes sympathy by describing in harrowing detail her last journey, especially with the picture of her little arms resting on a large dog. Her death caused by giving birth to an illegitimate child. Fannys fear that she will never see Troy again Perhaps I shall be in my grave is prophetically ironic. Ironically she has more power in death than in life. Her beauty in the coffin reduces Troy to abject shame and reawakens his true love, as he regards Fanny now as his very wife Fanny is then put in a coffin and Gabriel leaves her coffin to rest at Bathshebas house, which is near to where she will be buried. On the coffin though it said Fanny Robin and Child. Gabriel took his handkerchief and carefully rubbed out the two latter words, leaving one inscription Fanny Robin only. Gabriel did this to protect Bathsheba from getting hurt and to maybe protect Troy from the embarrassment, as he was the father of an illegitimate child. Her character is simply drawn from her naive honesty and her forlorn faith in her lover. In many ways, Fanny represents the plight of the Victorian working- class female who strays outside the narrow confines of society rules. In the end Hardy left Fanny on a very sombre and sad note The persistent torrent from the gurgoyles jaws directed all of its vengeance into the grave. The rich tawny mould was stirred into motion, and boiled like chocolate. This is where Hardy has evoked the most sympathy for Fanny, and I am sure other readers of the book would agree with me. Hardy presents these two characters very differently. He portrays Bathsheba as a self- assured, independent, confident woman who was deserted by her husband because he had realised his mistake, leave her to pick up the pieces of what I think was a shattered life and one that was in turmoil, dismay and sadness. This is how Hardy has tried to draw sympathy for Bathsheba, by describing how Troy mistreated her and used her for her wealth; this is the only place in the book that you really feel sympathy for Bathsheba. With the character of Fanny Hardy was able to draw a lot more sympathy from the readers due to the reality of her character and that did happen in those days. Fanny was the total contrast to Bathsheba she was the shy and dark and lonely figure who was never paid any attention to; she was poor and weak. She was never, I think, truly happy with who she was and how people, especially Troy treated her and Troy only realised how special she was until it was too late. The most striking scene in the book was definitely when the gurgoyle was dripping water all over Fannys grave and ruining it. This is when we as readers, we sit back and are made to think of the things in our life that we take for granted each day, just expecting them to always be there, and one day they wont and then we will truly realise how much we had loved them, as Troy found out when Fanny died. Hardy has presented these characters in the most appropriate and effective way in order to draw sympathy from them. I do think now, that this book is not just to be read but it has been written to make you think about the things that you cherish most in life, and dont make the mistake of not appreciating them.

The Transformation of Lucius Essay Example for Free

The Transformation of Lucius Essay The book†The Transformations of Lucius†, also known as Golden Ass, or Metamorphoses, is a story with magic, adventure and lesson. This was translated from the original Latin text into English by Robert Graves. The book by Lucius Apuleius, adapted a Greek story. The story is a journey spiced with mix of erotic, comedy, and romantic encounters. However, the story can be observed as a religious fable. It is one of the early European literature pieces with Eastern influence and a very modern feel. Written almost 2000 years ago, the book retains its energy and excitement that entertains the readers and the message or lesson that it employs. The Lucius’ transformation of man turning into ass provides a situation that enables the character to experience hardships and make dramatic scenes for the story. This determines the struggle to play upon. This instance of transformation of a man into an ass implies a magical experience which can be seen throughout the story. Some instances are the mysteries of Isis and having himself performed miracles necessitating the mastery of magic and sorcery. However, the story emphasizes the reality through twists of events like tragic and drama. The novel portrays about the man and the struggle of life in a world of limited resources. Magic as described in the story does not eliminate the reality or incapacity to o certain things. The author limits the use of magic, in order to focus on a more human experience such as struggle. One struggle that Lucius had arises from his own inner desires for pleasure. The journey to escape from the bonds of desire is a challenge endured by Lucius. In the story, sensual aspects of life through descriptions of erotic scenes illustrate pleasurable and the painful way of living life. The author put the character into a situation where he can show that maturation and the right wisdom needed to survive ones desires. Another conflict that arises is from outside the character. This occurs between individuals or even a larger group of persons. It gives description of the society during that time, illustrating the heroes, senators and other magnates of Roman power, also simple shepherds and farmers, cooks and scullions, artesans, slaves and beggars, and thieves of the underworld. When Lucius, as an ass, is forced to work in a flour-mill, the author describes the hideous conditions of the slaves working there. The author implied unacceptable conditions in the Empire and is a demand for reform. The construction of the story has alternation between comic and tragic experiences and between romantic and dramatic instances. One comic encounter is when Lucius and his host Milo which is offset by the tragic of Socratess death. The character’s romantic sexual encounters with the maidservant contrast with the horrifying story of Thelyphrons disfigurement. There are also tragic and dramatic experiences like Luciuss own capture by the dacoits and his miserable experiences at the farms. Luciuss transformation from man to ass is comic-tragic. The Lucius and Fotis episodes could also be termed comic-romantic and his funny adventures with the priests. All throughout, the story alternates between naughty and humorous happenings and dramatic or tragic events. These elements are meant to provide excitement to the readers through unpredictable events. The novel, â€Å"The Transformations of Lucius†, is a portrayal of man’s struggle and eventually finding a true interpretation of his experience. It is important in every struggle to discover the meaning behind the things that one experience. That makes one person worthy of the success he earned. REFERENCE The Transformations of Lucius, otherwise known as The Golden Ass. translation, notes by Robert Graves. New York: Farrar, Straus Giroux, 2000 (1950).

Good And Bad Aspects Of Religion In Novels Religion Essay

Good And Bad Aspects Of Religion In Novels Religion Essay Religion is a controversial topic which is a boarded in the two following books: The Kite Runner  ,  by  Khaled Hossein and The Power and the Glory,  by  Graham Green. Both books are based on this topic and they show the good and bad aspects. It is important to poit out that they are not about religion but many important things that happen in this book talk about religion or are related with religion. These books do no attack directly any religious group but focuses on religion as something general. The good aspect that religion has is that they comfort others and the bad aspect is that in occasions it is common for people to take advantage of the ones who have less. Unfortunately with in religion social groups are formed, with this everyone feels obligated to support economically their religion, in order for their sin to be forgiven. In the power and glory the author criticizes how the church takes advantage of the faith people have and the money they give with devotion. This is personified by the lieutenant. Unfortunately this is very common, the people that have less money are the ones that are always willing to give more even though they don ´t have the possibilities. the old peasants knelt there before the holy images with their arms held outin the attitude of the cross: tired by the long days labour in the plantations they squeezed out a further mortification. And the priest come round with the collecting bag taking their centavos, abusing them for their small comforting sins, and sacrificing nothing at all in return-except a little sexual indulgence. PAG. 22,23 The priest takes all that the peasants have and acts like if he were to abolish all the sins they have committed. The loss of faith is something very common because when people are having adversities it is then that they question everything, mainly the existence of God. Mexico is a perfect example of this type of religion. Mexico is one of the most religious countries, Mexicans believe that there is a god who is good, as well as the saints, it is costume to venerate these saints. But when the Mexicans do not get their wishes granted they turn their backs on the saints and start complaining like why did God do this to them. They were quite accustomed to people dying , but an unforeseen hope of happiness had bobbed up among the tombs: they could boast after this that one at least of their family had gone into the ground with an official prayer. Pag. 48 This is a point that favors religion because it makes people stronger especially when they are in a difficult situation. To accept the death of a love one is the most difficult thing in life, but many people have the comfort that they are going to rest in a better place. In order to lead their soul to rest they must pray. And light a candle in order to illuminate them. But let us not forget that this prayer also helps comfort the family. And because of things like these the lieutenant did not believe in any religion he was always on the defensive. This is similar to the saying that talks about that everyone sees or have are different perspectives of the same thing, in occasions this is because of the previous experience they have had. It infuriated him to think that there were still people in the state who believed in a loving and a merciful God. There mystics who are said to have experienced God directly. He was a mystic, too, and what he had experienced was vacancy-a complete certainty in the existence of a dying, cooling world, of human beings who had evolved from animals for no purpose at all. Pag. 24,25 an enormous temptation came to Padre Josà © to take the risk and say a prayer over the grave. He felt the wild attraction of doing ones duty and strecheda sign of the cross in the air ; then fear came back like a drug. Contempt and safety waited for him down by the quay: he wanted to get away. He sank hopelessly down on his knees and entreated them: leave me alone . H e said, I am unworthy. Cant you see?-I am a coward. Pag. 49 Priests are people who have an important role in society they have to have a proper behavior. But they are humans and this should be kept in mind, they are not perfect. Another thing is that priests should be at the service of the community. They also commit mistakes or act in a selfish way, for example when a priest does not want to revel his identify because he is aware of the consequences that this will bring to his life. It is wrong to think that just because one diesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ no. I tell you I am in a state of mortal sin. I have done things I couldnt talk to you about. Pag.127 Sins are a religious concepts that difference the good and bad. Religion is always in charge of the moral aspects and dictates the rules that a person should follow in order to be a good person or if these rules are broken they are considered sinners. He said, I dont know how to repent .that was true: he had lost the faculty. He couldnt say to himself that he wished his sin had never existed, because the sin seemed to him now so unimportant and he loved the fruit of it. He needed a confessor to draw his mind slowly down the drab passages which led to grief and repentance. Pag. 128The concept that the church manages in many occasions crashes with the interests and necessities of the people. and when are seen from another perspective are not at all bad or incorrect. When father or mother have a child that is a sinner according to church rules, they fell ashamed or have to act distant. When they actually feel happy or do not want to turn their backs on theier sons. This is comun in teenage mothers, even though they are seen as sinners thay have the support and comfort of their parents. The kite runner is a book that is focused on the religià ³n of the pakistan ´s, even thought thi book does not mention much about religion, it is considered that the most important characters are the ones that have had an encounter with it. In this quote they mainly talk about the religion seen as a sin. But ironically they sil did not handle the concept of sin. He though us the intricacies of performing the five daily namaz prayers, and made us memorize verses from the Koran-and though he never translated the words for us, Pag. 16 They do nothing bu thumb their prayer beads and recite a book written in a tongue they dont even understand . He took a sip. God help us all if afganistan ever falls into their hands. 270 these people learned the koran because they felt obligated to do it. Even thouh they read the Koran they could never understand what the texts meant. They where with the religion but they blind they could see no farther then what was convient for them o believe. Never mind of those things. Because history isnt easy to overcome. Neither is religià ³n. In the end, I was in Pashtun and he was a Hazara, I was sunni and he was Shia and nothing was ever going to change that. Nothing. But we were kids who had learned to crawl together, and no history, ethnicity, society, or religion was going to change that either. Pag. 25 With this quote the author implies that religion divides people, this is similar to what was seen in power and glory. But in the kite runner this is presented with amir and Hassan, their relation was conditions to their social status, they had different religions and their relation had to be only cordial. This was thanks to their differences, it is always common to see the differences between people should be pointed out instead o the similitude between them. We listen to what God says and we obey because we are nothing, but humble, powerless creatures before gods greatness. And what does God say? I ask you! WHAT DOES GOD SAY? God says that every sinner must be punished in a manner befitting his sin. Those are not my words, nor the words of my brothers. Those are the words of GOD! Pag. 270 This is also an example on how religion uses a sin to punish others, but this could not be seen as a sin but justice. At the same time this I quiet ironically, because how can you tell a person to not do things when this person does not predict with the example. It is important that people understand that religion can provide comfort and strength sometimes, but also they need to be aware of how religion has the power enough to dictate the values and attitudes of a society, and sometimes some actions that religion promotes can be questionable. Therefore, attitude towards religion should be more open, enough to be able to see the advantages or disadvantages of it. Besides, beyond religion, people should be conscious that freedom and civil rights should not be threatened or restricted by any type of doctrine. This is difficult to do because religion is something that most people have in their lives and when you grow with certain concepts and principles they become part of who you are and to question any of it implies to confront yourself, which is a thing really difficult to do. If you can decide that religion serves you and how does it serve you then you will also be able to say when religion is being used as an abusive powers instead of a mor al guidance for the common good.

Essay --

With the growing number of people supporting the legalization of marijuana is it time to pass laws and make recreational use legal, or do all faults outweigh the good? The debate on whether marijuana should be legalized is currently a controversial topic. Many people have expressed their views on the topic, supporting their reasons for whether they think marijuana should be legalized. For some states it was easier to decide if the pros of legalizing marijuana outweighed the cons; such as Colorado and Washington. These states have already legalized the recreational use of marijuana. Marijuana is a fast-growing bushy plant with dense sticky flowers. It has been a part of our American culture for hundreds of years. It has been referred to as a poison, drug and narcotic. It is believed that marijuana was introduced by the Spanish in 1545 to Chile. In America the plant was first grown in Virginia and Massachusetts in the sixteen hundreds. It became a major commercial crop that was grown along with tobacco and was a source of fiber for fabric, rope and cloth. Later it was used to treat many health problems. During the 19th century many medical articles were written discussing marijuana’s value in treating conditions. The plant was considered legal from the 1600’s until the 19th century. Marijuana became popular in the mid-19th century and was in most drugstores through the beginning of the 20th century. It was around this time that recreational use of marijuana was becoming acknowledged. Marijuana has been illegal in the United States since t he Marijuana Tax Act of 1937. This is a federal law that made the possession or transfer of marijuana illegal throughout the United States. This law was the precursor to the crimina... ...ression, motivational syndrome, and even death. The brain damage has been shown to cause memory loss and difficulty in problem solving. In males, it will lower testosterone levels, lower sperm count, and may cause impotence. In females, marijuana may have some effects on pregnancy and can also cause birth defects. Legalization of marijuana could eventually lead to the legalization of harder drugs. Slowly progressing till it becomes possible for harder drugs to gain acceptance. Drugs like heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines, which many view now as unacceptable could eventually be up for legalization. Both sides give legitimate reasons whether it was for or against the legalization and should be taken into consideration. In the end when all sides of the argument are considered, it is simply a matter of opinion on whether you think marijuana should be legalized.

Pablo Picasso Essay -- Essays Papers

Pablo Picasso Some say he was superstitious, sarcastic, awful towards his children, and horrible to women. He could very well have been all those things, but one thing I know Pablo Picasso was a great artist. He is one of the fathers of cubism, he had an audience of at least tens of millions. No other painter or sculptor before him had the fame that Picasso had. In the year 1881 a son was born to Don Jose Ruiz Blasco and Maria Picasso on the southern coast of Spain in a town called Mà ¡laga. At around the age the age of 10 his father because an instructor at Da Guarda Institute. A year later young Pablo was being taught by his father. In a short time he started writing and illustrating a journals. When he was 16 he moved to Barcelona and excelled at the La Llotja Fine Arts Academy and was soon accepted by the Royal Academy in Madrid. He was often regarded as a boy genius. By 1901 Picasso began to paint entire works in tones of blue. This was appropriately called the Blue Period. The Blue Period was mostly beggars and â€Å"circus folk†. They always seemed to be lost in contemplation. This was a confidant step to Picasso maturity. Gradually his colors brightened. This era in his career was called the Rose Period. But he didn’t just use red as he only used blue in the Blue Period. In the Rose Period not only did he use soft pinks, but also blues, reds and greens because they created great compliments these images created. Picasso was neither a philosopher ...

Peerless Laser Processors Questions Essay

Question 1: Describe the business performance of Peerless before the purchase of the state-of-the –art punch presses in 1991 and after that? (2.5 points). Answer: In 1981, the company faced a do or die decision that forced them to use new technology. If the lasers failed, the company would have had nothing to fall back upon. There was no good economic justification available at the time upon which to base the decision. By contrast in 1984 the company had a track record with the technology, had a good feel for the market and its potential growth, and was in a much stronger position financially. Ted can be much more comfortable making this decision because of the reduction in uncertainty. The decision is harder on one way though. When the company had it’s back to the wall, it was clear that something different had to happen and quickly. When the company is in a more comfortable position, the pressure to make a decision is greatly reduced, making it easier to procrastinate. Question 2: What factors made Ted decide to purchase three punch presses in 1991? Were these factors also what Ted considered for buying the 1,200-watt laser cutter? (2.5 pts). Answer: The decision Ted faces now is purchase the 1200-watt laser cutter, with the decision he faced in 1991 when he was considering the three punch presses. There are some potential factors with the new laser: Peerless will be creating products that are unfamiliar to them. Peerless has no way of knowing if the new market will respond as well as the saw blade market did to the anticipated improvements in quality and cycle time coming from the laser. The new product line will require different distribution channels, different marketing techniques, and will draw new and different competition. Peerless may not be able to attract enough business to keep the system productive. The potential benefit is, of course, a new large market to successfully apply Peerless’s laser cutting experience. A significant  strategic variable that Peerless should consider is the long-term viability of the saw blade market. The success of laser cutting (as Peerless has experienced) and other technologies has the potential to reduce the overall market for mechanical cutting devices over the long term. Question 3: Of the three major types of control systems – cybernetic, go/no-go, and postcontrol – which would have been the most useful with the first laser and why? With this new laser and why? (2.5 pts). Answer: The laser itself would use cybernetic systems to control the cutting process. The first implementation project would have benefited most from cybernetic processes as well because of Peerless’s unique position. Since they were in a do or die position, they would not have wanted to kill the project for the conventional reasons. In fact, based on the typical parameters used for go/no-go controls, Peerless would have been justified in killing the first laser project. Instead, because of their dire circumstances, they stuck to their guns and eventually achieved success. The second implementation project would benefit from go/no-go controls because it is being conducted in a much more stable business environment in which where the company could back away from the project if necessary. Question 4: Calculate the variable cost per blade of laser cutting with this new system. Assume that the variable cost of the laser is $4/hour, that the laser custs at the rate of 40 inches per minute, that a typical blade of 14 inches diameter sells for $25, and the same computer and software will be used as currently. Material load time for a 10-blade sheet of steel is one minute. Use a 3-inch arbor hole size and assume that a cut tooth doubles the cut distance. (2.5 pts). Answer: The potential problems might be in purchasing the 1200-watt laser following steps are needed to estimate the payback: 1. Estimate the amount of laser cutting needed using a 14 inches saw blade as a typical product. The blade would have approximately a 44 inches circumference. 2. Based on the cutting speed of 40 inches/minute, the cutting would take 2.4 minutes. Adding time to handle the blade, and maintain the workstation, estimate the total time  at 3 min/blade. 3. Estimates the operating cost of a 1200 watt laser at $ 10/min, making the laser’s portion of the blade cost $ 30/blade, it is not a particularly significant amount for a $25 blade. 4. Estimates the cost of the laser to be about $200,000. Assume an additional $100,000 for computers and training bringing the total to $300,000. 5. If the laser can produce a blade every 3 minutes, than it could produce 160 in eight hours at $25 a unit. Based on Exhibit 1, the current profit margin is 12%, so it’s safe to assume that the single shift daily profit would equate to 160 X $25 X 12% or $480. 6. Given the $300,000 cost of the laser, the single shift payback period would be 625 days or half that amount for a two-shift operation. In addition to the brisk payback, the laser improves quality, cycle time and flexibility in responding to customer demand. The new laser system adds to the high tech image of the company and reinforces the employee’s pride. The original laser system was probably viewed as a threat to jobs when it was first implemented. Now that the company has experience with the benefits of laser cutting, they are in a better position to justify the investment both on non-economic and economic grounds.

Spirit Bound Chapter Twenty

â€Å"YOU'RE NOT MOROI!† HE CONTINUED. He wasn't shouting, but we'd definitely gotten the attention of the people standing near us. â€Å"You're Rose Hathaway, aren't you? How dare you and your impure blood invade the sanctity of our–â€Å" â€Å"That's enough,† a lofty voice suddenly said. â€Å"I'll take it from here.† Even with her face covered, there was no mistaking that voice. Tatiana swept in beside the guy, wearing a silver flowered mask and a long-sleeved gray dress. I'd probably seen her earlier in the crowd and not even realized it. Until she spoke, she blended in with everyone else. The whole room was quiet now. Daniella Ivashkov scurried up behind Tatiana, her eyes widening behind her mask when she recognized me. â€Å"Adrian–† she began. But Tatiana was seizing the situation. â€Å"Come with me.† There was no question that the order was for me or that I would obey. She turned and walked swiftly toward the room's entrance. I hurried behind her, as did Adrian and Daniella. As soon as we were out in the torch-lit hall, Daniella turned on Adrian. â€Å"What were you thinking? You know I don't mind you bringing Rose to certain events, but this was–â€Å" â€Å"Inappropriate,† said Tatiana crisply. â€Å"Although, perhaps it is fitting that a dhampir see how much the sacrifices of her people are respected.† That shocked us all into a moment of silence. Daniella recovered herself first. â€Å"Yes, but tradition states that–â€Å" Tatiana interrupted her again. â€Å"I'm well aware of the tradition. It's a bad breach of etiquette, but Rosemarie being here certainly doesn't ruin our intentions. Losing Priscilla†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Tatiana didn't choke up, exactly, but she lost some of her normal composure. I didn't think of someone like her as having a best friend, but Priscilla pretty much had been. How would I act if I'd lost Lissa? Not nearly so controlled. â€Å"Losing Priscilla is something I'll feel for a very, very long time,† Tatiana managed at last. Her sharp eyes were on me. â€Å"And I hope you really do understand how much we need and value you and all the other guardians. I know sometimes your race feels underappreciated. You aren't. Those who died have left a gaping hole in our ranks, one that leaves us even more undefended, as I'm sure you must know.† I nodded, still surprised Tatiana wasn't shrieking for me to get out. â€Å"It's a big loss,† I said. â€Å"And it makes the situation worse because numbers are what harm us half the time–especially when the Strigoi form large groups. We can't always match that.† Tatiana nodded, seeming pleasantly surprised we'd agreed on something. That made two of us. â€Å"I knew you'd understand. Nonetheless†¦Ã¢â‚¬  She turned toward Adrian. â€Å"You shouldn't have done this. Some lines of propriety need to be maintained.† Adrian was surprisingly meek. â€Å"Sorry, Aunt Tatiana. I just thought it was something Rose should see.† â€Å"You'll keep this to yourself, won't you?† asked Daniella, turning back to me. â€Å"A lot of the guests are very, very conservative. They wouldn't want this getting out.† That they met by firelight and played dress-up? Yeah, I could see them wanting that kept a secret. â€Å"I won't tell anyone,† I assured them. â€Å"Good,† said Tatiana. â€Å"Now, you should still probably leave before–is that Christian Ozera?† Her eyes had drifted back toward the crowded room. â€Å"Yes,† both Adrian and I said. â€Å"He didn't get an invitation,† exclaimed Daniella. â€Å"Is that your fault too?† â€Å"It's not my fault so much as my genius,† said Adrian. â€Å"I doubt anyone will know, so long as he behaves himself,† said Tatiana with a sigh. â€Å"And I'm sure he'd take any opportunity he can to talk to Vasilisa.† â€Å"Oh,† I said, without thinking. â€Å"That's not Lissa.† Lissa had actually turned her back toward Christian and was speaking to someone else while casting anxious looks out the door at me. â€Å"Who is it?† asked Tatiana. Crap. â€Å"That's, um, Mia Rinaldi. She's a friend of ours from St. Vladimir's.† I'd almost considered lying and giving her a royal name. Some families were so big that it was impossible to keep track of everyone. â€Å"Rinaldi.† Tatiana frowned. â€Å"I think I know a servant with that name.† I was actually pretty impressed that she knew the people who worked for her. Yet again, my opinion of her shifted. â€Å"A servant?† asked Daniella, giving her son a warning look. â€Å"Is there anyone else I should know about?† â€Å"No. If I'd had more time, I probably could have got Eddie here. Hell, maybe even Jailbait.† Daniella looked scandalized. â€Å"Did you just say Jailbait?† â€Å"It's just a joke,† I said hastily, not wanting to make this situation worse. I was afraid of how Adrian might answer. â€Å"It's what we sometimes call our friend Jill Mastrano.† Neither Tatiana nor Daniella seemed to think that was a joke at all. â€Å"Well, no one seems to realize they don't belong,† said Daniella, nodding toward Christian and Mia. â€Å"Though the gossips here will no doubt be running wild with how Rose interrupted this event.† â€Å"Sorry,† I said, feeling bad that I might have gotten her in trouble. â€Å"Nothing to be done for it now,† said Tatiana wearily. â€Å"You should leave now so that everyone thinks you were severely chastised. Adrian, you come back with us and make sure your other ‘guests' don't raise any attention. And do not do something like this again.† â€Å"I won't,† he said, almost convincingly. The three began to turn away, leaving me to skulk off, but Tatiana paused and glanced back. â€Å"Wrong or not, don't forget what you saw here. We really do need guardians.† I nodded, a flush of pride running through me at her acknowledgment. Then she and the others returned to the room. I watched them wistfully, hating that everyone in there thought I'd been kicked out in disgrace. Considering it could have gone a lot worse for me, I decided to count my blessings. I removed the mask, having nothing more to hide, and made the trek back upstairs and outdoors. I hadn't gotten very far when someone stepped out in front of me. It was a sign of my preoccupation that I nearly leapt ten feet in the air. â€Å"Mikhail,† I exclaimed. â€Å"You scared me half to death. What are you doing out here?† â€Å"Actually, I've been looking for you.† There was an anxious, nervous look about him. â€Å"I went by your building earlier, but you weren't around.† â€Å"Yeah, I was at the Masquerade of the Damned.† He stared at me blankly. â€Å"Never mind. What's up?† â€Å"I think we might have a chance.† â€Å"Chance for what?† â€Å"I heard you tried to see Dimitri today.† Ah, yes. The topic I definitely wanted to think more about. â€Å"Yeah. ‘Try' is pretty optimistic. He doesn't want to see me, never mind the army of guardians blocking me out.† Mikhail shifted uncomfortably, peering around like a frightened animal. â€Å"That's why I came to find you.† â€Å"Okay, I'm really not following any of this.† I was also starting to get a headache from the wine. Mikhail took a deep breath and exhaled. â€Å"I think I can sneak you in to see him.† I waited for a moment, wondering if there was a punch line coming or if maybe this was all some delusion born out of my wound-up emotions. Nope. Mikhail's face was deadly serious, and while I still didn't know him that well, I'd picked up enough to realize he didn't really joke around. â€Å"How?† I asked. â€Å"I tried and–â€Å" Mikhail beckoned for me to follow. â€Å"Come on, and I'll explain. We don't have much time.† I wasn't about to waste this chance and hurried after him. â€Å"Has something happened?† I asked, once I'd caught up to his longer stride. â€Å"Did†¦ did he ask for me?† It was more than I dared to hope for. Mikhail's use of the word sneak didn't really support that idea anyway. â€Å"They've lightened his guard,† Mikhail explained. â€Å"Really? How many?† There had been about a dozen down there when Lissa visited, including her escort. If they'd come to their senses and realized they only needed a guy or two on Dimitri, then that boded well for everyone accepting that he was no longer Strigoi. â€Å"He's down to about five.† â€Å"Oh.† Not great. Not horrible. â€Å"But I guess even that means they're a little closer to believing he's safe now?† Mikhail shrugged, keeping his eyes on the path ahead of us. It had rained during the Death Watch, and the air, while still humid, had cooled a little. â€Å"Some of the guardians do. But it'll take a royal decree from the Council to officially declare what he is.† I almost came to a halt. â€Å"Declare what he is?† I exclaimed. â€Å"He's not a what! He's a person. A dhampir like us.† â€Å"I know, but it's out of our hands.† â€Å"You're right. Sorry,† I grumbled. No point in shooting the messenger. â€Å"Well, I hope they get off their asses and come to a decision soon.† The silence that followed spoke legions. I gave Mikhail a sharp glare. â€Å"What? What aren't you telling me?† I demanded. He shrugged. â€Å"The rumor is that there's some other big thing being debated in the Council right now, something that takes priority.† That enraged me too. What in the world could take priority over Dimitri? Calm, Rose. Stay calm. Focus. Don't let the darkness make this worse. I always fought to keep it buried, but it often exploded in times of stress. And this? Yeah, this was a pretty stressful time. I shifted back to the original topic. We reached the holding building, and I took the steps up two at a time. â€Å"Even if they've lightened the guardians on Dimitri, they still won't let me in. The ones that are there would know I was ordered to keep away.† â€Å"A friend of mine's covering the front shift right now. We won't have long, but he'll tell the guardians in the holding area that you were authorized to come down.† Mikhail was about to open the door, and I stopped him, putting my hand on his arm. â€Å"Why are you doing this for me? The Moroi Council might not think Dimitri's a big deal, but the guardians do. You could get in big trouble.† He looked down at me, again with that small, bitter smile. â€Å"Do you have to ask?† I thought about it. â€Å"No,† I said softly. â€Å"When I lost Sonya†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Mikhail closed his eyes for a heartbeat, and when he opened them, they seemed to be staring off into the past. â€Å"When I lost her, I didn't want to go on living. She was a good person–really. She turned Strigoi out of desperation. She saw no other way to save herself from spirit. I would give anything–anything–for a chance to help her, to fix things between us. I don't know if that'll ever be possible for us, but it is possible for you right now. I can't let you lose this.† With that, he let us in, and sure enough, there was a different guardian on duty. Just as Mikhail had said, the guy called down to tell the jail guardians Dimitri had a visitor. Mikhail's friend seemed incredibly nervous about it all, which was understandable. Still, he was willing to help. It was amazing, I thought, what friends would do for each other. These last couple of weeks were undeniable proof of that. Just like at Lissa's visit, two guardians showed up to escort me downstairs. I recognized them from when I'd been in her head, and they seemed surprised to see me. If they'd overheard Dimitri adamantly saying he didn't want me to visit, then my presence would indeed be shocking. But as far as they knew, someone in power had condoned me being here, so they asked no questions. Mikhail trailed us as we wound our way down, and I felt my heartbeat and breathing grow rapid. Dimitri. I was about to see Dimitri. What would I say? What would I do? It was almost too much to comprehend. I had to keep mentally slapping myself to focus, or else I was going to slide into dumbstruck shock. When we reached the hallway that held the cells, I saw two guardians standing in front of Dimitri's cell, one at the far end, and two others by the entrance we'd come through. I stopped, uneasy about the thought of others overhearing me talk to Dimitri. I didn't want an audience like Lissa had had, but with the emphasis on security here, I might not have a choice. â€Å"Can I get a little privacy?† I asked. One of my escorts shook his head. â€Å"Official orders. Two guardians have to be posted at the cell at all times.† â€Å"She's a guardian,† pointed out Mikhail mildly. â€Å"So am I. Let us go. The rest can wait by the door.† I flashed Mikhail a grateful look. I could handle having him nearby. The others, deciding we would be safe enough, moved discreetly to the ends of the hall. It wasn't total and complete privacy, but they wouldn't hear everything. My heart felt ready to burst from my chest as Mikhail and I walked over to Dimitri's cell and faced it. He was seated almost as he had been when Lissa arrived: on the bed, curled up into himself, back facing us. Words stuck in my throat. Coherent thought fled from my mind. It was like I'd totally forgotten the reason I'd come here. â€Å"Dimitri,† I said. At least, that's what I tried to say. I choked up a little, so the sounds that came out of my mouth were garbled. It was apparently enough, though, because Dimitri's back suddenly went rigid. He didn't turn around. â€Å"Dimitri,† I repeated, more clearly this time. â€Å"It's†¦ me.† There was no need for me to say any more. He'd known from that first attempt at his name who I was. I had a feeling he would have known my voice in any situation. He probably knew the sound of my heartbeat and breathing. As it was, I think I stopped breathing while I waited for his response. When it came, it was a little disappointing. â€Å"No.† â€Å"No what?† I asked. â€Å"As in, no, it's not me?† He exhaled in frustration, a sound almost–but not quite–like the one he used to make when I did something particularly ridiculous in our trainings. â€Å"No, as in I don't want to see you.† His voice was thick with emotion. â€Å"They weren't supposed to let you in.† â€Å"Yeah. Well, I kind of found a work-around.† â€Å"Of course you did.† He still wouldn't face me, which was agonizing. I glanced over at Mikhail, who gave me a nod of encouragement. I guessed I should be glad that Dimitri was talking to me at all. â€Å"I had to see you. I had to know if you were okay.† â€Å"I'm sure Lissa's already updated you.† â€Å"I had to see for myself.† â€Å"Well, now you see.† â€Å"All I see is your back.† It was maddening, yet every word I got out of him was a gift. It felt like a thousand years since I'd heard his voice. Like before, I wondered how I could have ever confused the Dimitri in Siberia with this one. His voice had been identical in both places, the same pitch and accent, yet as a Strigoi, his words had always left a chill in the air. This was warm. Honey and velvet and all sorts of wonderful things wrapping around me, no matter the terrible things he was saying. â€Å"I don't want you here,† said Dimitri flatly. â€Å"I don't want to see you.† I took a moment to assess strategy. Dimitri still had that depressed, hopeless feel around him. Lissa had approached it with kindness and compassion. She'd gotten through his defenses, though a lot of that was because he regarded her as his savior. I could try a similar tactic. I could be gentle and supportive and full of love–all of which were true. I loved him. I wanted to help him so badly. Yet I wasn't sure that particular method would work for me. Rose Hathaway was not always known for the soft approach. I did, however, play on his sense of obligation. â€Å"You can't ignore me,† I said, trying to keep my volume out of range of the other guardians. â€Å"You owe me. I saved you.† A few moments of silence passed. â€Å"Lissa saved me,† he said carefully. Anger burned within my chest, just it had when I'd watched Lissa visit him. How could he hold her in such high regard but not me? â€Å"How do you think she got to that point?† I demanded. â€Å"How do you think she learned how to save you? Do you have any idea what we–what I–had to go through to get that information? You think me going to Siberia was crazy? Believe me, you haven't even come close to seeing crazy. You know me. You know what I'm capable of. And I broke my own records this time. You. Owe. Me.† It was harsh, but I needed a reaction from him. Some kind of emotion. And I got it. He jerked around, eyes glinting and power crackling through his body. As always, his movements were both fierce and graceful. Likewise, his voice was a mix of emotions: anger, frustration, and concern. â€Å"Then the best thing I can do is–â€Å" He froze. The brown eyes that had been narrowed with aggravation suddenly went wide with†¦ what? Amazement? Awe? Or perhaps that stunned feeling I kept having when I saw him? Because suddenly, I was pretty sure he was experiencing the same thing I had earlier. He'd seen me plenty of times in Siberia. He'd seen me just the other night at the warehouse. But now†¦ now he was truly viewing me with his own eyes. Now that he was no longer Strigoi, his whole world was different. His outlook and feelings were different. Even his soul was different. It was like one of those moments when people talked about their lives flashing before their eyes. Because as we stared at one another, every part of our relationship replayed in my mind's eye. I remembered how strong and invincible he'd been when we first met, when he'd come to bring Lissa and me back to the folds of Moroi society. I remembered the gentleness of his touch when he'd bandaged my bloodied and battered hands. I remembered him carrying me in his arms after Victor's daughter Natalie had attacked me. Most of all, I remembered the night we'd been together in the cabin, just before the Strigoi had taken him. A year. We'd known each other only a year, but we'd lived a lifetime in it. And he was realizing that too, I knew, as he studied me. His gaze was all-powerful, taking in every single one of my features and filing them away. Dimly, I tried to recall what I looked like today. I still wore the dress from the secret meeting and knew it looked good on me. My eyes were probably bloodshot from crying earlier, and I'd only had time for a quick brushing of my hair before heading off with Adrian. Somehow, I doubted any of it mattered. The way Dimitri was looking at me†¦ it confirmed everything I'd suspected. The feelings he'd had for me before he'd been turned–the feelings that had become twisted while a Strigoi–were all still there. They had to be. Maybe Lissa was his savior. Maybe the rest of the Court thought she was a goddess. I knew, right then, that no matter how bedraggled I looked or how blank he tried to keep his face, I was a goddess to him. He swallowed and forcibly gained control of himself, just like he always had. Some things never changed. â€Å"Then the best thing I can do,† he continued calmly, â€Å"is to stay away from you. That's the best way to repay the debt.† It was hard for me to keep control and maintain some sort of logical conversation. I was as awestruck as he was. I was also outraged. â€Å"You offered to repay Lissa by staying by her side forever!† â€Å"I didn't do the things†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He averted his eyes for a moment, again struggling for control, and then met mine once more. â€Å"I didn't do the things to her that I did to you.† â€Å"You weren't you! I don't care.† My temper was starting to burn again â€Å"How many?† he exclaimed. â€Å"How many guardians died last night because of what I did?† â€Å"I†¦ I think six or seven.† Harsh losses. I felt a small pang in my chest, recalling the names read off in that basement room. â€Å"Six or seven,† Dimitri repeated flatly, anguish in his voice. â€Å"Dead in one night. Because of me.† â€Å"You didn't act alone! And I told you, you weren't you. You couldn't control yourself. It doesn't matter to me–â€Å" â€Å"It matters to me!† he shouted, his voice ringing through the hallway. The guardians at each end shifted but didn't approach. When Dimitri spoke again, he kept his voice lower, but it was still trembling with wild emotions. â€Å"It matters to me. That's what you don't get. You can't understand. You can't understand what it's like knowing what I did. That whole time being Strigoi†¦ it's like a dream now, but it's one I remember clearly. There can be no forgiveness for me. And what happened with you? I remember that most of all. Everything I did. Everything I wanted to do.† â€Å"You're not going to do it now,† I pleaded. â€Å"So let it go. Before–before everything happened, you said we could be together. That we'd get assignments near each other and–â€Å" â€Å"Roza,† he interrupted, the nickname piercing my heart. I think he'd slipped up, not truly meaning to call me that. There was a twisted smile on his lips, one without humor. â€Å"Do you really think they're going to ever let me be a guardian again? It'll be a miracle if they let me live!† â€Å"That's not true. Once they realize you've changed and that you're really your old self†¦ everything'll go back to how it was.† He shook his head sadly. â€Å"Your optimism†¦ your belief that you can make anything happen. Oh, Rose. It's one of the amazing things about you. It's also one of the most infuriating things about you.† â€Å"I believed that you could come back from being a Strigoi,† I pointed out. â€Å"Maybe my belief in the impossible isn't so crazy after all.† This conversation was so grave, so heartbreaking, yet it still kept reminding me of some of our old practice sessions. He'd try to convince me of some serious point, and I'd counter it with Rose-logic. It would usually earn me a mix of amusement and exasperation. I had the feeling that were the situation just a little different, he'd have that same attitude now. But this was not a practice session. He wouldn't smile and roll his eyes. This was serious. This was life and death. â€Å"I'm grateful for what you did,† he said formally, still struggling to master his feelings. It was another trait we shared, both of us always working to stay in control. He'd always been better at it than me. â€Å"I do owe you. And it's a debt I can't pay. Like I said, the best thing I can do is stay out of your life.† â€Å"If you're part of Lissa's, then you can't avoid me.† â€Å"People can exist around each other without†¦ without there being any more than that,† he said firmly. It was such a Dimitri thing to say. Logic fighting emotion. And that's when I lost it. Like I said, he was always better at keeping control. Me? Not so much. I threw myself against the bars, so rapidly that even Mikhail flinched. â€Å"But I love you!† I hissed. â€Å"And I know you love me too. Do you really think you can spend the rest of your life ignoring that when you're around me?† The troubling part was that for a very long time at the Academy, Dimitri had been convinced he could do exactly that. And he had been prepared to spend his life not acting on his feelings for me. â€Å"You love me,† I repeated. â€Å"I know you do.† I stretched my arm through the bars. It was a long way from touching him, but my fingers reached out desperately, as though they might suddenly grow and be able to make contact. That was all I needed. One touch from him to know he still cared, one touch to feel the warmth of his skin and– â€Å"Isn't it true,† said Dimitri quietly, â€Å"that you're involved with Adrian Ivashkov?† My arm dropped. â€Å"Wh–where did you hear that?† â€Å"Things get around,† he said, echoing Mikhail. â€Å"They certainly do,† I muttered. â€Å"So are you?† he asked more adamantly. I hesitated before answering. If I told him the truth, he'd have more ground to make his point about us keeping apart. It was impossible for me to lie to him, though. â€Å"Yes, but–â€Å" â€Å"Good.† I'm not sure how I expected him to react. Jealousy? Shock? Instead, as he leaned back against the wall, he looked†¦ relieved. â€Å"Adrian's a better person than he gets credit for. He'll be good to you.† â€Å"But–â€Å" â€Å"That's where your future is, Rose.† A bit of that hopeless, world-weary attitude was returning. â€Å"You don't understand what it's like coming through what I did–coming back from being a Strigoi. It's changed everything. It's not just that what I did to you is unforgiveable. All my feelings†¦ my emotions for you†¦ they changed. I don't feel the way I used to. I might be a dhampir again, but after what I went through†¦ well, it's scarred me. It altered my soul. I can't love anyone now. I can't–I don't–love you. There's nothing more between you and me.† My blood turned cold. I refused to believe his words, not after the way he'd looked at me earlier. â€Å"No! That's not true! I love you and you–â€Å" â€Å"Guards!† Dimitri shouted, his voice so loud that it was a wonder the whole building didn't shake. â€Å"Get her out of here. Get her out of here!† With amazing guardian reflexes, the guards were down at the cell in a flash. As a prisoner, Dimitri wasn't in a position to make requests, but the authorities here certainly weren't going to encourage a situation that would create a commotion. They began herding Mikhail and me out, but I resisted. â€Å"No, wait–â€Å" â€Å"Don't fight it,† murmured Mikhail in my ear. â€Å"Our time's running out, and you couldn't have accomplished anything else today anyway.† I wanted to protest, but the words stuck on my lips. I let the guardians direct me out, but not before I gave Dimitri one last, lingering look. He had a perfect, guardian-blank look on his face, but the piercing way he stared at me made me certain there was a lot going on within him. Mikhail's friend was still on duty upstairs, which let us slip out without getting in–much–more trouble. As soon as we were outdoors, I came to a halt and kicked one of the steps angrily. â€Å"Damn it!† I yelled. A couple of Moroi across the courtyard–probably coming home from some late party–gave me startled looks. â€Å"Calm down,† said Mikhail. â€Å"This was the first time you've seen him since the change. There are only so many miracles you can expect right away. He'll come around.† â€Å"I'm not so sure,† I grumbled. Sighing, I looked up at the sky. Little wispy clouds moved lazily about, but I barely saw them. â€Å"You don't know him like I do.† Because while part of me thought that a lot of what Dimitri had said was indeed a reaction to the shock of returning to himself, there was another part of me that wondered. I knew Dimitri. I knew his sense of honor, his adamant beliefs about what was right and wrong. He stood by those beliefs. He lived his life by them. If he truly, truly believed that the right thing to do was to avoid me and let any relationship between us fade, well†¦ there was a good chance he might very well act on that idea, no matter the love between us. As I'd recalled earlier, he'd certainly shown a lot of resistance back at St. Vladimir's. As for the rest†¦ the part about him no longer loving me or being able to love anyone†¦ well, that would be a different problem all together if it were true. Both Christian and Adrian had worried there would be some piece of Strigoi left in him, but their fears had been about violence and bloodshed. No one would have guessed this: that living as a Strigoi had hardened his heart, killing any chance of him loving anyone. Killing any chance of him loving me. And I was pretty sure that if that was the case, then part of me would die too.