Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Human Resource Management ( Hrm ) - 2151 Words
1.0 This report will provide descriptions for the functions and process in which Human Resources Managers undertake as part of their profession. Within this assignments missy travel is an independent travel agent that has be designed to demonstrate why Human Recourse Management (HRM) is important to organisations and to establish why HRM use particular theories to minimise cost in the current economic climate. 1.1 Human Resource Management (HRM) is a strategic team/ member of staff that is placed in charge of people affecting an organisation this could be consumers or most importantly staff. This is an important area within a company that focus entirely on the people that interacts with companies according Beer et al, 1984 (as citedâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦This outlines that strategic planning is the planning strategy that organisation use to manage the people (E.G. staff) in order to create an effective work force and to ensure that the management style is meeting the need to their people. HRM use planning techniques to look at the Long term goal as an organisation. The planning methods used depend on the type of organisation for example small to intermediate companies such as north American Travel service are likely to have a different planning strategy compared to large to international organisation such as TUI Travel . The Mintzberg 1994 theory suggest that the future success for a company relies on the strategic planning and strategic vision linking together. This suggest that the importance of an organisation future success is located from companies making sure they have a plan in place in order to manage their team effectively in order to ensure the success of companies. As the work environment constantly changes it essential that the management planning varies depending on the type of organisation and what type of people are employed for the company. Firstly HRM need to decide which type of approach they want to take when dealing with people for exampleShow MoreRelatedHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )1508 Words à |à 7 Pagesââ¬Å"Human resource management (HRM) is the managing of human skills and talents to make sure they are used effectively and in alignment with an organizationââ¬â¢s goalsâ⬠(Youssef, 2012). The primary role of human resource management is to plan, develop, and order policies and programmers designed to make prompt use of a n organizationââ¬â¢s human resources. It is that part of management which is concerned with the people at work and with their relationship within an organization. I currently work for a HumanRead MoreHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )1552 Words à |à 7 PagesHuman Resource Management (HRM) is the function within an association that has emphases on the employment of, administration of, and providing direction for the employees within an organization. The Human Resource Management department members deliver knowledge, training, tools, administrative services, and lawful and organization advice. The HRM department is organized by very talented managers who has a mission to make sure the rest of the business has the needs for successful operation. HumanRead MoreHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )1562 Words à |à 7 PagesHuman resource management (HRM) is an important strategic and systematic approach that provides each company with the opportunity to create policies and practices, a s well as to establish administrative forms (Pfeffer, 2007). According to Armstrong (2009) HRM is an approach that deals with ââ¬Ëemployment, development, and well-being of the people working in organizationsââ¬â¢. However HRM has evolved significantly through the years due to the rapid social, economic, political and environmental changes.Read MoreHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )1142 Words à |à 5 Pageshe HRM Process Human Resource Management (HRM) is a combination of elements that work interdependently on each other to carry out the daily functions within an organization. Human Resources Management operates in several roles serving as a liaison between the organization and the employee. This dual role often present challenges within HRM; therefore it is vital the HRM Department is skilled on various issues that may arise on a daily basis within an organization. In this paper, I will discussRead MoreHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )1105 Words à |à 5 PagesHuman Resource Management (HRM) is the function within an association that has emphases on the employment of, administration of, and providing direction for the employees within an organization. The Human Resource Management department members deliver knowledge, training, tools, administrative services, and lawful and organization advice. The HRM department is organized by very talented managers who has a mission to make sure the rest o f the business has the needs for successful operation. HumanRead MoreHuman Resource Management : Hrm772 Words à |à 4 Pagesa brief description of the models of HRM discussed in the first chapter of the textbook, and explain how each one relates to strategic human resource management. Human Resource Management (HRM) at its best seeks to manage people and resources to maximize economic and social outputs. Social output resulting from providing opportunity for advancement will ultimately make employees become true participants in the company. Bratton and Gold (2012) outline six HRM models, they are: the Forbrum, TichyRead MoreHrm And The And Human Resource Management1094 Words à |à 5 PagesIntroduction The main purpose to write this essay is to analogize the differences in the field of HRM and IR. The Foundation of Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management is based on intense academic study. The essay is an endeavor to illustrate by scrutinizing their objectives and the viewpoints or the approaches of this field. The first part of the essay is an attempt to define HRM and IR and it further continues to explain the differences and similarities between the two. In the lastRead MoreHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )1405 Words à |à 6 PagesHuman Resource Management (HRM) seeks to manage people and resources to maximize economic and social outputs. Bratton and Gold (2012) outline six HRM models which include: the Forbrum, Tichy and Devanna model, the Harvard model, the Guest model, the Warwick model, The Storey model, and Ulrichââ¬â¢s Strategic Partner model of HRM. Forbrum Tichy and Devanna model of HRM is based on the principle of selecting, appraising, developing and rewarding employees who fulfill management strategic business interestsRead MoreHuman Resource Management ( Hrm )2412 Words à |à 10 Pages these human traits can bring considerable benefits to organizationsâ⬠(Mullins 1999). However, when managed poorly they have the potential to limit organizational growth and threaten the viability of a business. ââ¬Å"There are countless examples of corporate and project crises in the construction sector which have arisen as the result of people s behaviour, and it would seem that human resource management (HRM) has the potential to eliminate more construction risks than any other management approachâ⬠Read MoreHuman Resources Management ( Hrm ) Essay794 Words à |à 4 Pages Human Resources Management (HRM) is people who work in an organization. The manager is a person who manages people, leads, facilitates and provide tools for the organization. Human resources management also, sets strategic processes and procedures, run difficult and complex communication as the organization attracts the best talents from the recruiting process. Human resources management is where everything begins and ends for an individual and the organization. Consequently
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Analyzing a Published Work Free Essays
Analyzing a Published Work Overview One of the most important moves academic writers can master is the art of analysis. This assignment will help you to develop the skills necessary to determine the meaning found within a text. To be clear, the intent of this essay is not to argue for or against the content; instead, we are analyzing what the article does in terms of the following: 1. We will write a custom essay sample on Analyzing a Published Work or any similar topic only for you Order Now purpose, 2. approach, and 3. effectiveness. Assignment Go to an online newspaper website: Chicago Tribune http://www. chicagotribune. com/, http://www. ansascity. com/, or http://www. nytimes. com/ are a few possible sites, but feel free to use a more local newspaper website. Find an article in the Op/ED section that is argumentative in nature. Use the following questions to guide your analysis: 1. What is the purpose of the text? In other words, what exactly is the position the article takes and/or what does the author want his or her readers to believe and/or do after reading the article? 2. What strategies does the text use to attempt to achieve its purpose? Give examples from the article. In other words, does the article use facts, examples, experiences, logic, assumptions, data, sources, expert opinion, and so on to prove his or her position? Be sure to give examples. You could also try to determine if the position is presented as more of a Classical argument or a Rogerian argument. 3. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the approach the article used? In other words, what would you have liked to see more of in the article? Less of? What worked? What didnââ¬â¢t work? Do you detect bias that is unreasonable? Does the author use unreasonable assertions, stereotypes, or faulty information to make his or her points? Does the author place the opposition in an unfair light? Does the author distort the arguments of those who disagree? Does the author fail to recognize the weaknesses in his or her own position? Does the author leave out important information? Does the author back up his or her assertions with evidence, or does he or she simply make assumptions? What would most improve the argument? Explain your answers. Remember, we are not arguing for or against the content of these articles; we are analyzing what the article attempts to do, how it does it, and if it does so fairly. We should not be concerned about how we feel about the article. To be clear: Your readers should not know what your position is about the subject. Your readers should only know whether or not you felt the article was reasonable, well-developed, fair, etc. Do not include personal opinion or personal judgments about the subject matter. Do not include personal narrative. This analysis should be presented in the form of a single essay, complete with a title page, an introduction, three body paragraphs (purpose, approach, and effectiveness), a conclusion, and a full References page. Your analysis should meet the following criteria: â⬠¢Is based on a current topic and/or event; â⬠¢is between 300-500 words in length, not including the title page, abstract (if used), and References page; â⬠¢includes direct quotations and paraphrased passages from the text; â⬠¢uses attributive tags that not only work to convey the mood of the writer, but establish him or her as an authority in the field of study; â⬠¢avoids personal opinion; â⬠¢is written clearly, concisely, and accurately; â⬠¢is written solely in third-person; is formatted in APA style and includes a References page; â⬠¢has been closely edited so that it contains few or no mechanical errors; â⬠¢is ordered with a title page, an introduction, three body paragraphs (purpose, approach, and effectiveness), a conclusion, and a full References page. *Note that no one writes a polished essay in a single sitting. Start early and give yourself time for multiple revisions. Analysis Checklist As you work on your analysis, it is a good idea to keep the following questions in mind: 1. How does this analysis meet the assignment criteria? . How close do you feel your analysis reflected the presentation of the original argument? 3. Does this analysis use effective transitions as it progresses from paragraph to paragraph? 4. Does this analysis avoid personal opinion, casual language, or first or second person language? 5. Is there anything in this analysis that could have been left out without losing its effect? 6. Is there anything else that could have been added to this analysis to make it feel more complete? 7. Is this analysis based on a current topic? How to cite Analyzing a Published Work, Papers
Saturday, December 7, 2019
U2 free essay sample
Looking back through my tall stack of U2 CDs, I stumbled across the turning point of U2s musical career. In the CDs Boy and October, U2 had made strong political statements and produced unique music unparalleled today. That all seemed to end after the production of War. War was U2 in its prime. It is unique, strong, and roars with the lively creative genius the Irish band used to possess. Songs like Sunday Bloody Sunday and New Years Day scream their strong messages into the ears of their listeners. Have you heard any message in Mysterious Ways? I doubt it. Its a pop song, a dance tune, a soon-to-be forgotten lyrical mess with a hip-hop beat. Its a shame. n U2 free essay sample This summer I went to see U2 at Foxboro Stadium. It was the most exciting concert I have ever been to. The Zoo TV Tour was intense. Television screens at least 50 feet tall gave everyone the image of being in the front row and huge speakers blasted your ears with the sweet songs they played all night. When they played songs like One and Even Better than the Real Thing, pictures on the screens followed the themes of the songs. During One there was a picture of a flower and underneath was the word one in different languages flashing from one language to another. They played for about two hours. Each minute was unbelievable. U2 puts so much emotion and hard work into their concerts. My favorite part was when Larry Mullen Jr. (drummer) sang an Irish drinking song and dedicated it to Larry Bird. He pointed to a banner with the number 33 in the rafters, which he had put up. We will write a custom essay sample on U2 or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I think that I will never forget this concert for the rest of my life. n
Saturday, November 30, 2019
Office Carpet Cleaning Options Rug Doctor vs. Professional free essay sample
Office Carpet Cleaning Options: Rug Doctor vs.. Professional Carpet Cleaners Introduction Professional carpet cleaning systems have been in use since the sasss, not only cleaning the many spills and dirty footprints but also making the environment much healthier removing many different mite allergens from the carpet. Over time, two leading carpet cleaning techniques have dominated the market, professional carpet cleaners and rent do-it-yourself carpet cleaning equipment. The leader in rent do-it- yourself carpet cleaning is Rug Doctor offering convenient, compact, and powerful hot eater extraction carpet cleaning machines that can be found in over 33,000 grocery, drug, hardware, and home center stores across the United States (Rent The Rug Doctor). The second leading carpet cleaning technique, professional carpet cleaners, offering highly-effective hot-water extraction method to remove ground-in dirt and debris that may or may not be visible to the naked eye using a truck mounted vacuum system. Currently, at G-M Accounting Firm, the carpet looks extremely dirty lowering the customers image of the firm, possibly losing business. We will write a custom essay sample on Office Carpet Cleaning Options: Rug Doctor vs. Professional or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Considering that the firms alluding is new, as of a year ago, it is important to maintain the carpet so it will last longer as well. Studies have also shown that a dirty carpet creates a health concern for people. The purpose of this report is to understand what carpet cleaning technique, Rug Doctor or professional carpet cleaners, is the best choice for the firm. It is important for the firm to select the right technique to maintain the current carpet, keep the carpet as clean as possible to ensure the health of the employees, and to keep the cost of the project down. Through secondary research and primary research using a river, this report will give the firm crucial information about carpet cleaning. The goals of this report are to (1) examine the consequences involved with dirty carpet (2) compare the rent do-it-yourself, Rug Doctor, and professional carpet cleaners performance, and (3) compare the costs of two techniques. A survey from the employees will provide additional information to achieve the reports goals. Finally, the report will draw conclusions from the collected information and suggest a recommendation based on those conclusions. Secondary Research Using Professional and Scholarly Journals Consequences of Dirty Carpet A major consequence trot d arty carpet and poor maintenance in the workplace is a poor business image. In the business world it is important to have a good business image as it creates the customers perception of the business. The first impression your business projects is when a client walk through the door is the physical image. In the article Image Is Everything Nikkei Swartz states, Image is everything. It is a reflection of every plan your company executes service offerings, pricing, customer service, advertising, sales, network quality and you should cultivate it with care 1999). Often time businesses image go hand to hand with the quality of work produced, for example, if the company is well maintained and clean they are more likely to produce a superior product (Publish). The second major consequence of dirty carpet is the health concerns it creates for the employees. Studies have shown that improperly maintained office carpets can contribute to absenteeism and decrease employee productivity. Dirty carpets can contribute to poor indoor air quality, which can be responsible for many health effects such as fatigue, headaches, nausea, dizziness, respiratory illnesses and the inability to concentrate. Also people with weak immune systems, asthma or other respiratory conditions working on maintained carpet are at increased risk for illness leading to missing work. Office mold, dust mites, and other allergens in the carpet are the often responsible for the many health concerns (Lutz, Sham, Cast, Amended ; Buckley, 2010). Performance of Technique The cleaning performances of the different techniques are very similar as both Rug Doctor and Professional Carpet Cleaners are using a hot water extraction cleaning method. In a study, by Lie-Mining Yin, it was found that using a hot water extraction leaning system when removing lead from carpet it reduced the amount of lead up to 40% compared to that of a normal everyday vacuum (2008). According to Consumer Reports article, The best way to really clean carpets, the Rug Doctor had a cleaning grade of good and a dryness grade of very good, but was inconvenient because you have to push the heavy machine around. In the same article they graded a professional carpet cleaning service, which got a cleaning grade of excellent. Although the cleaning grade was excellent they could not Judge dryness. Dryness could more than likely have a poor grade as it routine for professional cleaners to raise all furniture on blocks because the carpet needs approximately one day to dry (2003). Cost of Technique The cost from professional cleaning service and Rug Doctor are drastically different. The Rug Doctor is the less expensive of the two options and can either be rented, which is about $20 per day, or purchased online between the price ranges from $400-$600. The other cost that must be considered with the Rug Doctor is that someone NAS to operate the machine. Professional carpet cleaning is much more expensive and varies on the amount of carpet being cleaned. The national average per square foot cost for professional cleaning is $0. 30-$0. 40, which is usually about $40 a room. Additional cost may take place if being cleaned on the weekend for many companies (Consumer Reports). Primary Research Using Surveys Conducting the Survey For this report I had a survey filled out by 20 business professionals. My goal was to discover what they believe the appearance of a dirty carpet at an office does for consumer satisfaction and if they believe any health concerns are related to a dirty repeat. The survey was five questions that asked the professionals to rate their level of agreement with the statements related to the effect that a dirty carpet has on overall image of the business, first impression of the business, effect on health problems, overall health, and how often carpets should be cleaned. Results After reviewing all of the surveys all business professionals agreed that dirty carpet lowers the first impression and overall image of the business. Comments were made concerning how the maintenance of your company is related to how well the company is run. The majority of the professionals agreed that having dirty carpet could possibly cause health problems, which is also connected to lowering their overall health. In the last question concerning how often carpet should be cleaned a majority of the business professionals agreed that a cleaning should take place every 1-2 years. Conclusions Based on the findings of my secondary research and my primary research involving a survey with the employees the following conclusions are drawn: 1 . Having dirty carpets in the workplace lowers the overall image of the firm, possibly losing customers. . Health concerns increase with dirty carpet, leading to employees being ill and having to call off work. 3. Both the Rug Doctor and professional cleaning service are effective in cleaning carpet, but the drying time with the professional cleaning service is much longer. . The overall cost of the Rug Doctor is much lower compared to a professional carpet cleaning service. 5 Business professionals agree that a business should years, in addition to the usual daily vacuum use. Recommendations clean there carpet every Supported by the findings and conclusions of this report, the following commendations are offered in an effort to provide G-M Accounting Firm with the best carpet cleaning technique:
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
Manejar en EEUU auto con placas de México
Manejar en EEUU auto con placas de Mà ©xico Es obvio que en la zona fronteriza los turistas mexicanos pueden ingresar a Estados Unidos manejando sus autos con placas mexicanas. Adems,à nada impide que el viaje se extienda mucho ms all de la frontera y alcance cualquiera de los 48 estados continentales contiguos del paà s. Es decir, se excluye Alaska y Hawaii. Para manejar sin problemas en Estados Unidos con un auto con placas de Mà ©xico este artà culo explica cules son los requisitos que se deben cumplir, con informacià ³n detallada sobre el seguro del auto. Adems, seà detalla quà © acciones se deben evitar y, finalmente, informacià ³n general pero relevante sobre cruce de frontera y procedimientos migratorios y de aduanas que deben ser tenidos en cuenta. Requerimientos para manejar un auto con placas mexicanas en EE.UU. Todos los dà as miles de autos mexicanos cruzan la frontera por los puentes internacionales. Generalmente, limitan sus viajes a unas pocas millas dentro del territorio estadounidense y se regresan inmediatamente pero nada impide estancias ms largas y alejadas de la zona fronteriza. Para no tener problemas, hay que tener en cuenta los siguientes puntos: En primer lugar, el chà ³fer mexicano debe tener una licencia de manejar de su paà s vlida. Adems, si va a adentrarse a estados no fronterizos serà a conveniente que antes de salir de Mà ©xico adquiriese una licencia internacional de manejar, que es una traduccià ³n a varios idiomas, incluido el inglà ©s, de su licencia. En segundo lugar, el automà ³vil debe tener placas y registracià ³n vlidas.à En tercer lugar, tener en cuenta que en las aduanas y fronteras de los Estados Unidos, losà autos viejosà pueden ser rechazados para ingresarà por incumplir con los requerimientos medioambientales. Por lo tanto, verificar que se est al dà a en el cumplimiento de estos requisitos, principalmente cuando se trata de un auto viejo. En cuarto lugar, un auto mexicano puede estar en manos de un turista hasta un mximo de un aà ±o. Pero,à si se va a estar ms de 30 dà as en el mismo estado, comprobar con el Department of Motor Vehicles del estado en el que se encuentre sobre si hay algà ºn requerimiento adicional que cumplir. Destacar que aunque el auto puede estar legalmente en EE.UU., en teorà a, hasta un aà ±o, eso no quiere decir que el turista que lo maneja o todos los que viajan en su interior puedan estar legalmente en Estados Unidos por todo ese tiempo. Hay que mirar las condiciones de la visa americana con la que se ingresa al paà s. Si se tiene una lser, el tiempo que se puede permanecer en Estados Unidos y los lugares a los que se puede viajar son ms restringidos que si se ingresa con una visa de turista. Si se tiene una de estas visas, verificar en el I-94 cunto tiempo es posible permanecer legalmente en EE.UU. Generalmente la estancia se permite por 180 dà as, pero puede ser por menos tiempo. Adems, si se quiere prolongar la estancia es posible solicitar una extensià ³n de la visa de turista. Seguro de auto mexicano en carreteras de EE.UU. Quiz el requisito fundamental es contar con una pà ³liza de seguro de auto que dà © cobertura, como mà nimo, para lesiones de ocupantes y daà ±os a terceros en sus personas y/o bienes. Y hay que obtener una certificacià ³n de esa pà ³liza en inglà ©s. En muchas ocasiones, este seguro mexicano no cubre eventualidades que puedan ocurrir manejando el auto en Estados Unidos. En este caso, hay que contratar uno que sà brinde esta cobertura. Adems, es importante incluir en esa pà ³liza a todos los posible conductores que vayan a manejar el auto en Estados Unidos, si es que va a hacerlo ms de un ocupante del automà ³vil. Estos seguros se pueden contratar por un sà ³lo dà a, por meses o hasta un aà ±o. Es muy importante tener en cuenta que si se planea viajar por varios estados, la cobertura mà nima puede variar. Asegurarse de cumplir con las leyes estatales que se pueden consultar en el Departamento de Vehà culos a Motor de cada estado (liability, en inglà ©s). Varias aseguradoras mexicanas ofrecen este tipo de pà ³liza. Tambià ©n es posible contratarla cerca de la frontera, del lado mexicano.à Si la policà a para al auto, sin duda van a pedir que se enseà ±e esta certificacià ³n. Si se tiene alguna inquietud,à marcar al telà ©fono de la CIAM. Se puede llamar desde Estados Unidos y tambià ©n desde Mà ©xico.à Resuelven dudas de diverso tipo, incluidas las que afectan a seguros de autoà y son muy competentes en sus respuestas. Cà ³mo evitar problemas manejando en EE.UU. un auto con placas mexicanas El asunto del manejo en Estados Unidos de automà ³viles con placas extranjeras est regulado por ley federal y por las leyes estatales. La federal es el tratado de 1949 conocido como Inter-American Convenction Road Traffic. Si la policà a para el automà ³vil y uno de los ocupantes resulta ser un inmigrante indocumentado, es posible que el auto acabe embargado por la Policà a de Fronteras (ICE, por sus siglas en inglà ©s) y que acabe siendo subastado. Es decir, que el dueà ±o se quede sin su auto. En los casos de multas por una infraccià ³n de trnsito, es conveniente pagarla. En la actualidad, las computadoras en los controles migratorios de Estados Unidos estn conectados a una base de datos que se llama TECS que contiene, entre otras, informacià ³n que proveen los Departamentos de Vehà culos de los diferentes estados y estn notificando multas de trfico, aunque no es asà en todos los casos. Finalmente, losà ciudadanos americanos y los residentes permanentes legales con licencias de manejar de los Estados Unidos (que es la que tienen que tener) no pueden manejar en el paà s un automà ³vil con placas mexicanas. Est prohibido, del mismo modo que los mexicanos residentes en Mà ©xicoà no pueden por ley manejar en su paà s un auto con placas de los Estados Unidos. Tips à ºtiles para turistas mexicanos en Estados Unidos à Para evitar problemas muy serios como quedarse en situacià ³n de ilegalidad, cancelacià ³n o revocacià ³n de visas o que en el control migratorio simplemente impidan el ingreso al paà s, es necesario tener en cuenta asunto como conà à cunta frecuencia se puede ingresar como turista a Estados Unidosà y tener muy claro quà ©Ã pasa si se queda en Estados Unidos ms tiempo del permitido. Tambià ©n es interesanteà saberà cunto dinero se puedeà ingresar legalmente a Estados Unidosà y, si trae mascota, asegurarse de que goce de buen estado de salud y de que tenga todos los documentos en regla. Lo que se pide va a depender del lugar de procedencia yà del tipo de mascota.à A la hora de cruzar la frontera terrestre entre Mà ©xico y Estados Unidos es posible acelerar el paso por el control migratorio si se forma parte del programaà SENTRI. En los dems casos, conviene evitar los dà as y horas de mucho trfico, cuando los retrasos pueden ser enormes en los puentes internacionales.à Finalmente, se recomienda tomar esteà test o quizà sobre la visa de turistaà para asegurarte de que tienes los conocimientos que debes saber para sacarla y conservarla.à Este artà culo no es asesorà a legal para ningà ºn caso especà fico. Es sà ³lo informacià ³n de carcter general.
Friday, November 22, 2019
Blood Promise Chapter TwentyFour
Iââ¬â¢d never seen it coming. Hell, no one had. Avery had made a good show of being an air user. Each Moroi had a very low level of control in each element. Sheââ¬â¢d just barely done enough with air to make it seem like that was her specialization. No one had questioned her further because honestly, who would have ever expected another spirit user around? And since she was out of school, she had no reason to be tested anymore or forced to demonstrate her ability. No one was there to call her on it. The more I thought about it, the more the little signs were there. The charming personality, the way she could talk people into anything. How many of her interactions were spirit controlled? And was it possibleâ⬠¦ was it possible that Adrianââ¬â¢s attraction had been compulsion on her part? I had no reason to feel happy about that, butâ⬠¦ well, I did. More to the point, what did Avery want with Lissa? Avery compelling Adrian into liking her wasnââ¬â¢t too out there. He was good-looking and came from an important family. He was the queenââ¬â¢s great-nephew, and although family members of the current monarch could never inherit the throne immediately afterward, heââ¬â¢d have a good future, one that would always keep him in the highest circles of society. But Lissa? What was Averyââ¬â¢s game there? What did she have to gain? Lissaââ¬â¢s behavior all made sense now-the uncharacteristic partying, weird moods, jealousy, fights with Christianâ⬠¦ Avery was pushing Lissa over the edge, causing her to make horrible choices. Avery was using some sort of compulsion to spin Lissa out of control, alienating her and putting her life in danger. Why? What did Avery want? It didnââ¬â¢t matter. The why wasnââ¬â¢t important. The how was, as in how I was going to get out of here and back to my best friend. I looked down at myself, at the delicate silk dress I wore. Suddenly, I hated it. It was a sign of how Iââ¬â¢d been, weak and useless. I hastily took it off and ransacked my closet. Theyââ¬â¢d taken away my jeans and T-shirt, but Iââ¬â¢d at least been allowed to keep my hoodie. I put on the green sweater dress, seeing as it was the sturdiest thing I had, feeling moderately more capable. I slipped the hoodie on over it. It hardly made me feel like a badass warrior, but I did feel more competent. Sufficiently dressed for action, I returned to the living room and started that pacing that tended to help me think better-not that I had any reason to believe I was going to come up with new ideas. Iââ¬â¢d been trying to for days and days with no luck. Nothing was going to change. ââ¬Å"Damn it!â⬠I yelled, feeling better with the outburst. Angry, I flounced into the desk chair, amazed that I hadnââ¬â¢t simply thrown it against the wall in my frustration. The chair wobbled, ever so slightly. Frowning, I stood up and looked at it. Everything else in this place was state-of-the-art. Odd that Iââ¬â¢d have a faulty chair. I knelt down and examined it more closely. There, on one of the legs, was a crack near where the leg joined with the seat. I stared. All of the furniture here was industrial strength, with no obvious joints. I should know, seeing how long Iââ¬â¢d beat this chair against the wall when I first arrived. I hadnââ¬â¢t even dented it. Where had this crack come from? Slamming it over and over had done nothing. But I hadnââ¬â¢t been the only one to hit it. That very first day, Iââ¬â¢d fought with Dimitri and come after him with the chair. Heââ¬â¢d taken it from me and thrown it against the wall. Iââ¬â¢d never paid attention to it again, having given up on breaking it. When Iââ¬â¢d later tried cracking the window, Iââ¬â¢d used an end table because it was heavier. My strength hadnââ¬â¢t been able to damage the chair-but his had. I picked up the chair and immediately slammed it into that diamond-hard window, half-hoping I might kill two birds with one stone. Nope. Both remained intact. So I did it again. And again. I lost track of how many times I slammed that chair into the glass. My hands hurt, and I knew despite my recovery, I still wasnââ¬â¢t at full strength. It was infuriating. Finally, on what felt like my gazillionth try, I looked at the chair and saw the crack had grown bigger. The progress renewed my will and strength. I hit and hit, ignoring the pain as the wood bit into my hands. At long last, I heard a crack, and the leg broke off. I picked it up and stared in amazement. The break hadnââ¬â¢t been clean. It was splintered and sharp. Sharp enough to be a stake? I wasnââ¬â¢t sure. But I knew for a fact that wood was hard, and if I used enough force, I might be able to hit a Strigoiââ¬â¢s heart. It wouldnââ¬â¢t kill one, but the blow would stun. I didnââ¬â¢t know if itââ¬â¢d be enough to get me out of here, but it was all I had now. And it was a hell of a lot more than Iââ¬â¢d had one hour ago. I sat back on the bed, recovering from my battle with the chair and tossing the makeshift stake back and forth. Okay. I had a weapon now. But what could I do with it? Dimitriââ¬â¢s face flashed in my mindââ¬â¢s eye. Damn it. There was no question about it. He was the obvious target, the one Iââ¬â¢d have to deal with first. The door suddenly clicked open, and I looked up with alarm. Quickly, I shoved the chair into a dark corner as panic raced through me. No, no. I wasnââ¬â¢t ready. I hadnââ¬â¢t fully convinced myself to stake him. It was Inna. She carried a tray but didnââ¬â¢t wear her usual subservient expression. The brief look she gave me was filled with hate. I didnââ¬â¢t know what she had to be pissed off about. It wasnââ¬â¢t like Iââ¬â¢d caused her any damage. Yet. I strode over like I was going to examine the tray. Lifting the lid, I saw a ham sandwich and french fries. It looked good-I hadnââ¬â¢t eaten in a while -but the adrenaline running through me had shoved any appetite I might have to the background. I glanced back up at her, smiling sweetly. She shot me daggers. Donââ¬â¢t hesitate, Dimitri had always said. I didnââ¬â¢t. I jumped at Inna, throwing her so hard against the floor that her head slammed back. She looked dazed, but quickly recovered and tried to fight back. I wasnââ¬â¢t drugged up this time-well, not much-and my years of training and natural strength finally showed themselves again. I pressed my body against her, keeping her firmly in place. Then, I produced the stake Iââ¬â¢d had concealed and pressed those sharp points against her neck. It was like being back in the days of pinning Strigoi in alleys. She couldnââ¬â¢t see that my weapon was a chair leg, but the sharp points got her attention as I dug them into her throat. ââ¬Å"The code,â⬠I said. ââ¬Å"What is the code?â⬠Her only response was a string of obscenities in Russian. Okay, not a surprise, considering she probably didnââ¬â¢t understand me. I flipped through the meager Russian-English dictionary in my head. Iââ¬â¢d been in the country long enough to pick up some vocabulary. Admittedly, it was equivalent to a two-year-oldââ¬â¢s, but even they could communicate. ââ¬Å"Numbers,â⬠I said in Russian. ââ¬Å"Door.â⬠At least, thatââ¬â¢s what I hoped I said. She said more impolite things to me, her expression defiant. It really was the Strigoi interrogation all over. My stake bit harder, drawing blood, and I forcibly restrained myself. I might question whether I had the strength to pierce a Strigoi heart with this, but severing a humanââ¬â¢s vein? Cake. She faltered a little, apparently realizing the same thing. Again, I attempted my broken Russian. ââ¬Å"Kill you. No Nathan. Neverâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ What was the word? The church service came back to me, and I hoped I had it right. ââ¬Å"Never eternal life.â⬠It got her attention. Nathan and eternal life. The things most important to her. She bit her lip, still angry, but her tirade had stopped. ââ¬Å"Numbers. Door,â⬠I repeated. I pushed the stake in harder, and she cried out in pain. At last she spoke, rattling off a series of digits. Russian numbers were something I had memorized pretty solidly, at least. They were essential for addresses and phone numbers. She cited seven numbers. ââ¬Å"Again,â⬠I said. I made her say it three times and hoped I had it. But there was more. I was pretty sure the outer door had a different code. ââ¬Å"Numbers. Door. Two.â⬠I felt like a caveman. Inna stared, not quite getting it. ââ¬Å"Door. Two.â⬠Understanding glinted in her eyes, and she looked mad. I think sheââ¬â¢d hoped I wouldnââ¬â¢t realize the other door had its own code. More cutting with the stake made her scream seven more numbers. Again, I made her repeat them, realizing I had no way to know if she was telling me the truth at least until I tried the numbers. For that reason, I decided to keep her around. I felt guilty about what I did next, but these were desperate times. In guardian training, Iââ¬â¢d been taught both to kill and to incapacitate. I did the latter this time, slamming her head back against the floor and rendering her unconscious. Her expression went slack, her eyelids drooping. Damn. I was reduced to hurting teenage humans. Standing up, I moved to the door and punched in the first set of numbers, hoping I had them right. To my complete and utter astonishment, I did. The electronic lock clicked, but before I could open the door, I just barely made out another click. Someone had unlocked the outer door. ââ¬Å"Shit,â⬠I muttered. I pulled away from the door immediately, picked up Innaââ¬â¢s unconscious body, and hurried to the bathroom. I set her in the tub as gently as possible and had just shut the bathroom door when I heard the main door open. I felt the telltale nausea that signaled a Strigoi was nearby. I knew one of the Strigoi could smell a human, and I hoped shutting her away would be enough to mute Innaââ¬â¢s scent. I emerged from the hall and found Dimitri in the living room. I grinned at him and ran into his arms. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re back,â⬠I said happily. He held me briefly and then stepped back. ââ¬Å"Yes.â⬠He seemed slightly pleased at the greeting, but soon his face was all business. ââ¬Å"Have you made your decision?â⬠No hello. No how are you feeling? My heart sank. This wasnââ¬â¢t Dimitri. ââ¬Å"I have more questions.â⬠I went over to the bed and lay down in a casual way, just like we always did. He followed a few moments later and sat on the edge, looking down at me. ââ¬Å"How long will it take?â⬠I asked. ââ¬Å"When you awaken me? Is it instantaneous?â⬠Once more, I launched into an interrogation session. Honestly, I was running out of questions, and at this point, I didnââ¬â¢t really want to know the intricacies of becoming Strigoi. I was becoming more and more agitated with each passing moment. I had to act. I had to make use of my fleeting opportunity here. And yetâ⬠¦ before I could act, I had to reassure myself that this really wasnââ¬â¢t Dimitri. It was stupid. I should know by now. I could see the physical changes. Iââ¬â¢d seen his coldness, the brutality. Iââ¬â¢d seen him come fresh from a kill. This wasnââ¬â¢t the man Iââ¬â¢d loved. And yetâ⬠¦ for that one fleeting moment earlierâ⬠¦ With a sigh, Dimitri stretched out beside me. ââ¬Å"Rose,â⬠he interrupted, ââ¬Å"if I didnââ¬â¢t know better, Iââ¬â¢d say you were stalling for time.â⬠Yeah, even as a Strigoi, Dimitri knew how I thought and schemed. I realized if I was going to be convincing, I had to stop playing dumb and remember to be Rose Hathaway. I put on a look of outrage. ââ¬Å"Of course I am! This is a big deal. I came here to kill you, and now youââ¬â¢re asking me to join you. You think this is easy for me to do?â⬠ââ¬Å"Do you think itââ¬â¢s been easy for me to wait this long?â⬠he asked. ââ¬Å"The only ones who get choices are Moroi who willingly kill, like the Ozeras. No one else gets a choice. I didnââ¬â¢t get a choice.â⬠ââ¬Å"And donââ¬â¢t you regret that?â⬠ââ¬Å"No, not now. Now that Iââ¬â¢m who I was meant to be.â⬠He frowned. ââ¬Å"The only thing hurt is my pride-that Nathan forced me and that he acts as though Iââ¬â¢m indebted to him. Which is why Iââ¬â¢m being kind enough to give you the choice now, for the sake of your pride.â⬠Kind, huh? I looked at him and felt my heart breaking all over again. It was like hearing the news of his death once more. I suddenly grew afraid I might cry. No. No tears. Dimitri always talked about prey and predators. I had to be the predator. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re sweating,â⬠he said suddenly. ââ¬Å"Why?â⬠Damn, damn, damn. Of course I was sweating. I was contemplating staking the man I loved-or thought Iââ¬â¢d loved. And along with sweat, I was sure I was giving off pheromones of my agitation. Strigoi could smell all of those things, too. ââ¬Å"Because Iââ¬â¢m scared,â⬠I whispered. I propped myself up and stroked the edge of his face, trying to memorize all of his features. The eyes. The hair. The shape of his cheekbones. In my imagination, I overlaid the things I remembered. Dark eyes. Tanned skin. Sweet smile. ââ¬Å"Iâ⬠¦ I think Iââ¬â¢m ready, but itââ¬â¢sâ⬠¦ I donââ¬â¢t know. Itââ¬â¢s such a big thing.â⬠ââ¬Å"Itââ¬â¢ll be the best decision of your life, Roza.â⬠My breathing was growing rapid, and I prayed heââ¬â¢d think it was because of my fear of being turned. ââ¬Å"Tell me again. One more time. Why do you want to awaken me so badly?â⬠A slightly weary look crossed his face. ââ¬Å"Because I want you. Iââ¬â¢ve always wanted you.â⬠And thatââ¬â¢s when I knew. I finally realized the problem. Heââ¬â¢d given that same answer over and over, and each time, something about it had bothered me. Iââ¬â¢d never been able to pinpoint it, though. Now I could. He wanted me. Wanted me in the way people wanted possessions or collectibles. The Dimitri Iââ¬â¢d knownâ⬠¦ the one Iââ¬â¢d fallen for and slept withâ⬠¦ that Dimitri would have said he wanted us to be together because he loved me. There was no love here. I smiled at him. Leaning down, I kissed him gently. He probably thought I was doing it for the reasons I always did, out of attraction and desire. In truth, it was a goodbye kiss. His mouth answered mine, his lips warm and eager. I held out the kiss a little longer, both to fight back the tears leaking out of my eyes and to lull him into an unsuspecting state. My hand closed around the chair leg, which Iââ¬â¢d hidden in my hoodie pocket. I would never forget Dimitri, not for the rest of my life. And this time, I wouldnââ¬â¢t forget his lessons. With a speed he wasnââ¬â¢t ready for, I struck out and plunged the stake through his chest. My strength was there-sliding the stake past the ribs and straight into his heart. And as I did it, it was like piercing my own heart at the same time. Blood Promise Chapter TwentyFour Iââ¬â¢d never seen it coming. Hell, no one had. Avery had made a good show of being an air user. Each Moroi had a very low level of control in each element. Sheââ¬â¢d just barely done enough with air to make it seem like that was her specialization. No one had questioned her further because honestly, who would have ever expected another spirit user around? And since she was out of school, she had no reason to be tested anymore or forced to demonstrate her ability. No one was there to call her on it. The more I thought about it, the more the little signs were there. The charming personality, the way she could talk people into anything. How many of her interactions were spirit controlled? And was it possibleâ⬠¦ was it possible that Adrianââ¬â¢s attraction had been compulsion on her part? I had no reason to feel happy about that, butâ⬠¦ well, I did. More to the point, what did Avery want with Lissa? Avery compelling Adrian into liking her wasnââ¬â¢t too out there. He was good-looking and came from an important family. He was the queenââ¬â¢s great-nephew, and although family members of the current monarch could never inherit the throne immediately afterward, heââ¬â¢d have a good future, one that would always keep him in the highest circles of society. But Lissa? What was Averyââ¬â¢s game there? What did she have to gain? Lissaââ¬â¢s behavior all made sense now-the uncharacteristic partying, weird moods, jealousy, fights with Christianâ⬠¦ Avery was pushing Lissa over the edge, causing her to make horrible choices. Avery was using some sort of compulsion to spin Lissa out of control, alienating her and putting her life in danger. Why? What did Avery want? It didnââ¬â¢t matter. The why wasnââ¬â¢t important. The how was, as in how I was going to get out of here and back to my best friend. I looked down at myself, at the delicate silk dress I wore. Suddenly, I hated it. It was a sign of how Iââ¬â¢d been, weak and useless. I hastily took it off and ransacked my closet. Theyââ¬â¢d taken away my jeans and T-shirt, but Iââ¬â¢d at least been allowed to keep my hoodie. I put on the green sweater dress, seeing as it was the sturdiest thing I had, feeling moderately more capable. I slipped the hoodie on over it. It hardly made me feel like a badass warrior, but I did feel more competent. Sufficiently dressed for action, I returned to the living room and started that pacing that tended to help me think better-not that I had any reason to believe I was going to come up with new ideas. Iââ¬â¢d been trying to for days and days with no luck. Nothing was going to change. ââ¬Å"Damn it!â⬠I yelled, feeling better with the outburst. Angry, I flounced into the desk chair, amazed that I hadnââ¬â¢t simply thrown it against the wall in my frustration. The chair wobbled, ever so slightly. Frowning, I stood up and looked at it. Everything else in this place was state-of-the-art. Odd that Iââ¬â¢d have a faulty chair. I knelt down and examined it more closely. There, on one of the legs, was a crack near where the leg joined with the seat. I stared. All of the furniture here was industrial strength, with no obvious joints. I should know, seeing how long Iââ¬â¢d beat this chair against the wall when I first arrived. I hadnââ¬â¢t even dented it. Where had this crack come from? Slamming it over and over had done nothing. But I hadnââ¬â¢t been the only one to hit it. That very first day, Iââ¬â¢d fought with Dimitri and come after him with the chair. Heââ¬â¢d taken it from me and thrown it against the wall. Iââ¬â¢d never paid attention to it again, having given up on breaking it. When Iââ¬â¢d later tried cracking the window, Iââ¬â¢d used an end table because it was heavier. My strength hadnââ¬â¢t been able to damage the chair-but his had. I picked up the chair and immediately slammed it into that diamond-hard window, half-hoping I might kill two birds with one stone. Nope. Both remained intact. So I did it again. And again. I lost track of how many times I slammed that chair into the glass. My hands hurt, and I knew despite my recovery, I still wasnââ¬â¢t at full strength. It was infuriating. Finally, on what felt like my gazillionth try, I looked at the chair and saw the crack had grown bigger. The progress renewed my will and strength. I hit and hit, ignoring the pain as the wood bit into my hands. At long last, I heard a crack, and the leg broke off. I picked it up and stared in amazement. The break hadnââ¬â¢t been clean. It was splintered and sharp. Sharp enough to be a stake? I wasnââ¬â¢t sure. But I knew for a fact that wood was hard, and if I used enough force, I might be able to hit a Strigoiââ¬â¢s heart. It wouldnââ¬â¢t kill one, but the blow would stun. I didnââ¬â¢t know if itââ¬â¢d be enough to get me out of here, but it was all I had now. And it was a hell of a lot more than Iââ¬â¢d had one hour ago. I sat back on the bed, recovering from my battle with the chair and tossing the makeshift stake back and forth. Okay. I had a weapon now. But what could I do with it? Dimitriââ¬â¢s face flashed in my mindââ¬â¢s eye. Damn it. There was no question about it. He was the obvious target, the one Iââ¬â¢d have to deal with first. The door suddenly clicked open, and I looked up with alarm. Quickly, I shoved the chair into a dark corner as panic raced through me. No, no. I wasnââ¬â¢t ready. I hadnââ¬â¢t fully convinced myself to stake him. It was Inna. She carried a tray but didnââ¬â¢t wear her usual subservient expression. The brief look she gave me was filled with hate. I didnââ¬â¢t know what she had to be pissed off about. It wasnââ¬â¢t like Iââ¬â¢d caused her any damage. Yet. I strode over like I was going to examine the tray. Lifting the lid, I saw a ham sandwich and french fries. It looked good-I hadnââ¬â¢t eaten in a while -but the adrenaline running through me had shoved any appetite I might have to the background. I glanced back up at her, smiling sweetly. She shot me daggers. Donââ¬â¢t hesitate, Dimitri had always said. I didnââ¬â¢t. I jumped at Inna, throwing her so hard against the floor that her head slammed back. She looked dazed, but quickly recovered and tried to fight back. I wasnââ¬â¢t drugged up this time-well, not much-and my years of training and natural strength finally showed themselves again. I pressed my body against her, keeping her firmly in place. Then, I produced the stake Iââ¬â¢d had concealed and pressed those sharp points against her neck. It was like being back in the days of pinning Strigoi in alleys. She couldnââ¬â¢t see that my weapon was a chair leg, but the sharp points got her attention as I dug them into her throat. ââ¬Å"The code,â⬠I said. ââ¬Å"What is the code?â⬠Her only response was a string of obscenities in Russian. Okay, not a surprise, considering she probably didnââ¬â¢t understand me. I flipped through the meager Russian-English dictionary in my head. Iââ¬â¢d been in the country long enough to pick up some vocabulary. Admittedly, it was equivalent to a two-year-oldââ¬â¢s, but even they could communicate. ââ¬Å"Numbers,â⬠I said in Russian. ââ¬Å"Door.â⬠At least, thatââ¬â¢s what I hoped I said. She said more impolite things to me, her expression defiant. It really was the Strigoi interrogation all over. My stake bit harder, drawing blood, and I forcibly restrained myself. I might question whether I had the strength to pierce a Strigoi heart with this, but severing a humanââ¬â¢s vein? Cake. She faltered a little, apparently realizing the same thing. Again, I attempted my broken Russian. ââ¬Å"Kill you. No Nathan. Neverâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ What was the word? The church service came back to me, and I hoped I had it right. ââ¬Å"Never eternal life.â⬠It got her attention. Nathan and eternal life. The things most important to her. She bit her lip, still angry, but her tirade had stopped. ââ¬Å"Numbers. Door,â⬠I repeated. I pushed the stake in harder, and she cried out in pain. At last she spoke, rattling off a series of digits. Russian numbers were something I had memorized pretty solidly, at least. They were essential for addresses and phone numbers. She cited seven numbers. ââ¬Å"Again,â⬠I said. I made her say it three times and hoped I had it. But there was more. I was pretty sure the outer door had a different code. ââ¬Å"Numbers. Door. Two.â⬠I felt like a caveman. Inna stared, not quite getting it. ââ¬Å"Door. Two.â⬠Understanding glinted in her eyes, and she looked mad. I think sheââ¬â¢d hoped I wouldnââ¬â¢t realize the other door had its own code. More cutting with the stake made her scream seven more numbers. Again, I made her repeat them, realizing I had no way to know if she was telling me the truth at least until I tried the numbers. For that reason, I decided to keep her around. I felt guilty about what I did next, but these were desperate times. In guardian training, Iââ¬â¢d been taught both to kill and to incapacitate. I did the latter this time, slamming her head back against the floor and rendering her unconscious. Her expression went slack, her eyelids drooping. Damn. I was reduced to hurting teenage humans. Standing up, I moved to the door and punched in the first set of numbers, hoping I had them right. To my complete and utter astonishment, I did. The electronic lock clicked, but before I could open the door, I just barely made out another click. Someone had unlocked the outer door. ââ¬Å"Shit,â⬠I muttered. I pulled away from the door immediately, picked up Innaââ¬â¢s unconscious body, and hurried to the bathroom. I set her in the tub as gently as possible and had just shut the bathroom door when I heard the main door open. I felt the telltale nausea that signaled a Strigoi was nearby. I knew one of the Strigoi could smell a human, and I hoped shutting her away would be enough to mute Innaââ¬â¢s scent. I emerged from the hall and found Dimitri in the living room. I grinned at him and ran into his arms. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re back,â⬠I said happily. He held me briefly and then stepped back. ââ¬Å"Yes.â⬠He seemed slightly pleased at the greeting, but soon his face was all business. ââ¬Å"Have you made your decision?â⬠No hello. No how are you feeling? My heart sank. This wasnââ¬â¢t Dimitri. ââ¬Å"I have more questions.â⬠I went over to the bed and lay down in a casual way, just like we always did. He followed a few moments later and sat on the edge, looking down at me. ââ¬Å"How long will it take?â⬠I asked. ââ¬Å"When you awaken me? Is it instantaneous?â⬠Once more, I launched into an interrogation session. Honestly, I was running out of questions, and at this point, I didnââ¬â¢t really want to know the intricacies of becoming Strigoi. I was becoming more and more agitated with each passing moment. I had to act. I had to make use of my fleeting opportunity here. And yetâ⬠¦ before I could act, I had to reassure myself that this really wasnââ¬â¢t Dimitri. It was stupid. I should know by now. I could see the physical changes. Iââ¬â¢d seen his coldness, the brutality. Iââ¬â¢d seen him come fresh from a kill. This wasnââ¬â¢t the man Iââ¬â¢d loved. And yetâ⬠¦ for that one fleeting moment earlierâ⬠¦ With a sigh, Dimitri stretched out beside me. ââ¬Å"Rose,â⬠he interrupted, ââ¬Å"if I didnââ¬â¢t know better, Iââ¬â¢d say you were stalling for time.â⬠Yeah, even as a Strigoi, Dimitri knew how I thought and schemed. I realized if I was going to be convincing, I had to stop playing dumb and remember to be Rose Hathaway. I put on a look of outrage. ââ¬Å"Of course I am! This is a big deal. I came here to kill you, and now youââ¬â¢re asking me to join you. You think this is easy for me to do?â⬠ââ¬Å"Do you think itââ¬â¢s been easy for me to wait this long?â⬠he asked. ââ¬Å"The only ones who get choices are Moroi who willingly kill, like the Ozeras. No one else gets a choice. I didnââ¬â¢t get a choice.â⬠ââ¬Å"And donââ¬â¢t you regret that?â⬠ââ¬Å"No, not now. Now that Iââ¬â¢m who I was meant to be.â⬠He frowned. ââ¬Å"The only thing hurt is my pride-that Nathan forced me and that he acts as though Iââ¬â¢m indebted to him. Which is why Iââ¬â¢m being kind enough to give you the choice now, for the sake of your pride.â⬠Kind, huh? I looked at him and felt my heart breaking all over again. It was like hearing the news of his death once more. I suddenly grew afraid I might cry. No. No tears. Dimitri always talked about prey and predators. I had to be the predator. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re sweating,â⬠he said suddenly. ââ¬Å"Why?â⬠Damn, damn, damn. Of course I was sweating. I was contemplating staking the man I loved-or thought Iââ¬â¢d loved. And along with sweat, I was sure I was giving off pheromones of my agitation. Strigoi could smell all of those things, too. ââ¬Å"Because Iââ¬â¢m scared,â⬠I whispered. I propped myself up and stroked the edge of his face, trying to memorize all of his features. The eyes. The hair. The shape of his cheekbones. In my imagination, I overlaid the things I remembered. Dark eyes. Tanned skin. Sweet smile. ââ¬Å"Iâ⬠¦ I think Iââ¬â¢m ready, but itââ¬â¢sâ⬠¦ I donââ¬â¢t know. Itââ¬â¢s such a big thing.â⬠ââ¬Å"Itââ¬â¢ll be the best decision of your life, Roza.â⬠My breathing was growing rapid, and I prayed heââ¬â¢d think it was because of my fear of being turned. ââ¬Å"Tell me again. One more time. Why do you want to awaken me so badly?â⬠A slightly weary look crossed his face. ââ¬Å"Because I want you. Iââ¬â¢ve always wanted you.â⬠And thatââ¬â¢s when I knew. I finally realized the problem. Heââ¬â¢d given that same answer over and over, and each time, something about it had bothered me. Iââ¬â¢d never been able to pinpoint it, though. Now I could. He wanted me. Wanted me in the way people wanted possessions or collectibles. The Dimitri Iââ¬â¢d knownâ⬠¦ the one Iââ¬â¢d fallen for and slept withâ⬠¦ that Dimitri would have said he wanted us to be together because he loved me. There was no love here. I smiled at him. Leaning down, I kissed him gently. He probably thought I was doing it for the reasons I always did, out of attraction and desire. In truth, it was a goodbye kiss. His mouth answered mine, his lips warm and eager. I held out the kiss a little longer, both to fight back the tears leaking out of my eyes and to lull him into an unsuspecting state. My hand closed around the chair leg, which Iââ¬â¢d hidden in my hoodie pocket. I would never forget Dimitri, not for the rest of my life. And this time, I wouldnââ¬â¢t forget his lessons. With a speed he wasnââ¬â¢t ready for, I struck out and plunged the stake through his chest. My strength was there-sliding the stake past the ribs and straight into his heart. And as I did it, it was like piercing my own heart at the same time.
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Knowledge Management at National Health Services Essay
Knowledge Management at National Health Services - Essay Example It also has 375 intensive care beds in total, and can accommodate a total of 2000 patients in the intensive care unit. The hospital aims to specialize in care giving for cancer and cardiovascular patients. it has employed around 200 doctors whose expertise includes breast cancer, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal diseases and pediatrics. Reddix also employs nearly 400 nurses and other caregivers. The hospital has entirely integrated faculties for medical tests that are related to cancer and cardiovascular prognosis and diagnosis. One of the major problems that the hospital faces is the difficulty in the interoperability within the department systems. The hospital has different departments that cater to the different information needs. The hospital information system comprises the following six systems: Considering the number of systems it has it is evident that the hospital could have interoperability issues. Interoperability refers to the capacity of different and diverse systems and or physical components of a single system to work together through the use of agreed standards and specifications (Cetis, 2008). It helps the organization to create synergy in the organization. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, being inter-operable, the organization is able to work as a whole instead of working as separate entities. A recent report by the National Health Services criticized the Hospital Administration System of Reddix and said that it was extremely outdated and old and stated its concerns about the patient's files not being available to the concerned caregivers when it is direly required. This is because Reddix is unable to meet the IT needs that are needed so that the doctors, nurses and care givers can easily access all patients' files electronically whenever they nee d them. There are many strategies that the hospital can use in order to bring out a successful change process. In order to do that the Hospital needs to look at the problems individually and then come up with solutions. Specialists of management and healthcare were brought in to assess the current condition The major IT problem at Reddix is that they are using a centralized structured computing system to integrate all its IT applications and the software that is being used was developed nearly forty years ago using proprietary language which could only be used on limited software and did not have a very user friendly interface and there were problems relating to communication with other systems of Reddix such as clinical, diagnostic etc. It was also difficult to connect simple desktop applications such as word processing Reddix needs to develop a business plan that integrates a new IT system that will change its information processing in such a way that it benefits the organization as well as the people involved in it. As technology is progressing as we move into the next generation, there have been changes in the architecture of the information systems that are moving towards distributed computing systems. Distributed computing is a system of computer processing in which the system does not have a central server
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