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THE FANS SAY IT ALL – THE BEST IN ATLANTA – ELEVEN-TIME WINNER !!!

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THE FANS SAY IT ALL - THE BEST IN ATLANTA - ELEVEN TIME WINNER !!!

The Breeze Kings have proudly been featured ELEVEN times in Creative Loafing’s annual Best of Atlanta issue.
1999 Critic’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2000 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2001 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2004 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2005 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2006 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2007 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2008 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2010 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2015 Reader’s Choice for Best Blues Band in Atlanta
2019 Critic’s Choice for Best Dance Band in Atlanta …. The Breeze Kings!!

“The Breeze Kings hit you on every level. Driving rhythm, blistering guitar, and the fierce attack of Carlos the Breeze Capote’s harmonica. This band holds the music close to their hearts. You have to see them to understand.” -Mike Kane, producer and host of Blue Sunday radio show on Z93 92.9FM (Atlanta)

“The crowd-pleasing blues band blasts away.  This no bullshit quartet flies the Double D flag, givin’ the people what they want: music to keep folks drinkin’ and dancin’.  The rest is up to you.” -Lee Smith, Creative Loafing (Atlanta)

“The Breeze Kings are rapidly becoming one the premier blues groups in the South. Never bound by any one style, they can stretch out and do great Texas, Chicago, and Delta blues. Their sets are carefully constructed to give you a great blend of originals and standards with boundless enthusiasm. From a club owners perspective, the guys are easy to work with and great people. The Breeze Kings are audience friendly, any audience, and they are building up a very loyal following wherever they play.” -Dr. Russell “The Blues Doctor” Linnemann, member of Blues Foundation Board of Directors, host of Handy Award nominee WUTC Blues & More radio show Wed. 8-11pm, and Chattanooga event promoter and booking agent.

“The Breeze Kings manage to skirt the line between fidelity to the genre and honesty to the listener … i.e. they’re old school without trying to prove it with cartoonish gestures to some ephemeral Blues God.  They won’t try to pretend that Muddy Waters has laid his golden hand on their heads and that they are somehow the rightful heirs to a ghostly tradition, but they will pay homage to the forebears without making you feel like you’re watching a “Blues as a Themepark” nightclub act.  A top notch band with one of the best frontmen in the south.  If you’re like us and feel like the word “blues” has gotten a bad name by the outfits that make a caricature of the music, you’ll be sold without feeling like you were ever asked to buy.” -Cole Skinner and Gayle Thrower, booking agents for Radiogram (The Echo Lounge and Star Community Bar, Atlanta)

“Carlos is a wonderful entertaining musician able to adapt to any crowd and any partners for a pleasurable well blown blues experience.” -Jeff Dunham, Music Director of Z93 92.9FM (Atlanta)

“A pumping sound that won’t let you sit still. One of the freshest bands to emerge from Atlanta’s budding blues scene.” -Richard “Bald Man” Forrester, Atlanta booking agent and host of Good Morning Blues radio show on WRFG 89.3FM (Atlanta)

The Scene (Atlanta): April 4, 1998-The Bar Scene section. A Review of the Northside Tavern. “The Party Pack dropped in right in the middle of the Breeze Kings set. They were rolling it out like there was no tomorrow. It was good to see a group do justice to the men on the wall. On the wall behind the stage are pictures of blues legends both living and dead.”

“I have great blues here every night of the week, but I never miss a Thursday night with the Breeze Kings.” -Ellyn Webb, owner of the Northside Tavern (Atlanta)

“The brothers Breeze are not just a band, they are an inspiration! Lip smacking, dance inspiring, mood altering, booty grooving. Easily could be called the Smooth Kings.” -Dorothy Mann (owner) & Stella House (entertainment mgr), Blue Sky Tavern (McDonough, GA)

“The only thing stronger then these guys’ musical prowess is their professionalism. Over the years, whether it’s been a Friday night jam, a private party, or a special event, my every dealing with these guys has been totally up front, professional, and accurate. Complete talent like this makes my job easier.” -Ben Tunnell, manager of The Dalton Depot (Dalton, GA)

“A class act. Full of style. All around professionals!” -Kevin Jennings, Atlanta booking agent

“All the blues fans and blues bands in town better watch out, cause the Breeze Kings are kicking ass!.” -Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck, Atlanta blues performer

“I’ve been onstage with all of you guys at one time or another, and I got to tell you … together you’re Hot … Hot … Hot !!! Go ahead and tie one on for me. POWER TO THE BREEZE ………..” -Heaven Davis, Atlanta blues performer, fmr vice-president Atlanta Blues Society

“This band has got it. Musical talent, song selection, strong sincere vocals, and a great show.” -Tinsley Ellis, International blues superstar

“That’s as good as anybody I ever seen around here, and you just startin.” -Mr. Frank Edwards, Atlanta blues legend

“These guys are truly hot!” -Carlin Smith, fmr President Atlanta Blues Society, October ’98 newsletter.

“Fabulous. Dangerous. A complete revelation. Everything they do swings, even when they rock. Can I say fabulous again?” -Vincent Tseng, Atlanta music reviewer.

“The Breeze Kings have the look and sound of an authentic ’50’s juke joint blues band.” -Kevin Sechrist, Digital City Atlanta

“A steller performance.” -Will Davis, LocalMusic.com

“A couple of years ago I was rocking hardcore to The Urban Shakedancers when this guy with slicked back pompadour hair and a harp got onstage. The guy’s voice and harp playing actually took one of my favorite bands up a couple of notches! What the hell, I thought, is this town just crawling with people who can walk in off the street and blow your mind or what? Turned out the guy’s name was Carlos Capote and he had a band of his own called The Breeze Kings — “breeze” meaning “harp blowin’.” Listen and love.” -Art Howard, Voyager Magazine (Atlanta)

“The Breeze, cool & slow ~ smooth, like a cold beer on the edge of the bayou.  That’s the blues … Cajun style.  Add a vintage hollowbody, a phat harp sound, & a pinch of rockabilly.  Now you’re talkin’ the Breeze Kings.  The kings of the Blues.” -Kay Rowedder, orig owner Darwin’s (Marietta, GA)

“Anxious to hear some good electric blues? Need great guitar, harp, and soulful vocals? Get yer hands on a copy of “Tying One On… For The People”, by The Breeze Kings, from Atlanta, Georgia. Your “jones” will be cured before you know it, ’cause now you’re moving involuntarily to the sounds emanating from the speakers. You smile, realizing the “oh – yeah!’ G spot was found, and you Ty One On. The Breeze Kings, uhn.. uhn.. uhn.” -The Commander, host of Cadillac Blues 91.3 FM WLVR Bethlehem PA

“Anchored by bandleader Carlos Capote, BK define themselves by the blues they choose and the way they play it — authentic, pre-rock excavations, mostly from ’50s and ’60s icons and lesser-knowns, delivered with a rowdy vigor that’s true to the form.” -Bryan Powell, Creative Loafing (Atlanta)

“There is a vibrant tone to their proceedings. One senses their respect for the purer aspects of the Blues. This combination goes all the way to produce a CD that is rockin’ Blues at its best.” -Gary W. Miller, BluesWax Magazine

“The Breeze Kings, led by harmonica player and singer Carlos “Cool Breeze” Capote, have conquered Atlanta with a jumping mix of styles that ranges from sweet home Chicago electric blues to sizzling Texas blues to raw-and-ready Mississippi Delta and Piedmont blues. The music swings, shuffles and shakes a mean tailfeather.” -Kati Schardl, Tallahassee Democrat

“Before I ever heard these guys I knew that they had been voted Atlantas best blues band 3 years in a row. After I heard them, I knew exactly why and can only explain it like this… whenever these guys go to play a gig, they must take a spiritual detour through Chicago, Memphis and New Orleans. That’s the only way that I can explain their show. They are original, authentic and entertaining as well as a lot of fun. You’ll hear some of the best harmonica, guitar, bass, drums and blues vocals ever.” -Harty Wiedemann, Blues Pros Talent

“Bennett and I enjoyed having the Breeze Kings as part of a very special event for clients and friends. Your “Rockin’ Blues” really warmed up an otherwise, very cold evening. Aside from the awesome music, your professionalism and dependability was really appreciated. I know we will have many opportunities in the future to use the Breeze Kings for some of our LowCountry Barbecue events ….. as Barbecue and Blues just seem to go together. Many Thanks!!” -Johnny Ham and Bennett Brown, Pres. and V.P. of LowCountry Barbecue Inc.

“The crowd wooped and whistled to the great show by Carlos and the Breeze Kings on Saturday, Carlos drove the girls crazy with the last kiss!” -Ricky Dean, owner of ricky dean’s ‘olde town blues club’ (Conyers, GA)

“This is a band that truly deserves the name “All-Star”. A band with unique talent, wailing guitars, and soulful vocals. If you want a real dose of goodtime, sheer talent, and boogie woogie blues straight from the heart, The Breeze Kings is a don’t miss act!” -Marlene Willard, Augusta Blues Society

“You and your band are top knotch. It is just a matter of time and hard work that you will find yourself on stages around the world.” -Tim Duffy, Music Maker Relief Foundation

“A true pleasure with rich sounds that spring forth with freshness from an epoch that has all but vanished, or so we believed. Its the kind of CD that stays on the tray because it is always played. …… I am truly unable to find a fault in this record and that leaves me with only one lingering desire- that these musicians leave the US and come to….France??” -Erick Tonton, Blues & Co. Magazine, France and Belgium

“These musicians are standouts at their craft and write stellar songs. The Breeze Kings are a staple on our radio show.” –Upper Room with Joe Kelley and Gi Dussault WVOF 88.5 FM in Fairfield, Connecticut

“Groovin’ Babee! Carlos has that lonesome soul to his voice and that harp! Oh that harp! Can you spell “cool”?! The Breeze Kings got it goin’ on. The slow shuffle of “Casanova Man” is one you hit the “repeat button” on the cd player.” -Robb Morrison, host of the Sunday Blues Brunch on 95.7 WQMF Louisville KY and 107.3 KTHR Wichita KS

“RELIABLE BLUES: One of the most reliable nights of entertainment in town is the cool blast of weekly blues from one of Atlanta’s most reliably swinging quartets.” -Shane Harrison, AJC – Access Atlanta

“The Breeze Kings feature a sound deeply rooted in 1950s Chicago blues, but they also sneak in a healthy helping of Delta blues and R&B; into the mix as well. Their recent release, You Got To Bring Some To Get Some (Veritone Records), showcases their considerable talents well on 14 tracks that groove from start to finish. There’s plenty of vintage Chicago material here with well-done covers along with some very good originals. You Got To Bring Some To Get Some is an excellent disc of great blues that should not be missed.” -Graham Clarke, BluesBytes.com

“The band’s musical ability stretches beyond their voices and instruments. Nine of the fourteen tracks are very well written originals. One of those CD’s where each and every track was better than the last. I kept hitting replay because as the songs were ending, I wasn’t ready for them to end.” -Peter ‘Blewzzman’ Lauro, Mary4music.com January 2005

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Frigate: Optimizing for Lower CPU Usage in NVR Systems

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Frigate: Optimizing for Lower CPU Usage in NVR Systems

In the world of network video recording (NVR) systems, efficiency and performance are key. Frigate, an open-source NVR with real-time object detection capabilities, has become a popular choice for many, thanks to its robust support for machine learning and its ability to integrate with home automation systems like Home Assistant. However, Frigate’s impressive object detection features can be CPU-intensive, especially if deployed on hardware with limited processing power. This article explores tips and techniques to lower Frigate’s CPU usage, allowing you to optimize your setup for better performance and lower energy consumption.

Understanding Frigate’s CPU Demands

Frigate relies heavily on machine learning for object detection, typically utilizing models like YOLO (You Only Look Once) for real-time detection. This real-time processing can place a significant load on the CPU, especially when handling multiple camera streams or high-resolution video. Here are some factors that contribute to CPU usage in Frigate:

  1. Resolution of Video Streams: Higher resolutions require more processing power to analyze each frame.
  2. Frame Rate: The more frames per second (FPS), the higher the workload on the CPU.
  3. Object Detection Model: Frigate’s object detection models are computationally intensive, as they analyze each frame to identify objects.
  4. Processing Frequency: How frequently Frigate processes frames can impact CPU load; more frequent detection cycles increase CPU usage.

Techniques to Lower Frigate’s CPU Usage

Optimizing Frigate involves configuring its settings to reduce the CPU load without sacrificing too much functionality. Here are some of the most effective ways to achieve this.

1. Use Hardware Acceleration

One of the most effective ways to lower CPU usage is by offloading processing to a dedicated hardware accelerator. Frigate supports various hardware options, including:

  • Coral Edge TPU: A USB device that provides fast, efficient object detection. By using a Coral TPU, you can offload object detection tasks from the CPU, significantly reducing CPU usage.
  • NVIDIA GPU: Frigate can also leverage NVIDIA GPUs, which offer powerful hardware acceleration for video processing.
  • Intel Quick Sync Video (QSV): If your setup includes an Intel processor with Quick Sync support, you can enable this feature in Frigate to offload decoding tasks from the CPU.

Enabling hardware acceleration allows Frigate to process video feeds and detect objects more efficiently, lowering the CPU load by as much as 70% or more, depending on the hardware used.

2. Adjust Detection Frame Rate

Frigate’s default configuration may process video frames more frequently than necessary. Reducing the detection frame rate can lower CPU usage by decreasing the number of frames that Frigate analyzes each second. In the configuration file, you can adjust the fps value to find a balance between detection speed and CPU efficiency.





3. Optimize Camera Resolution and Frame Rate

High-resolution video streams demand more CPU resources. If high resolution is not critical for your application, consider lowering the camera resolution to 720p or even 480p, which will reduce CPU load. Additionally, reducing the camera frame rate to 15 or 10 FPS can further decrease the processing power required


4. Use Motion Detection Zones

Instead of monitoring the entire frame, define specific zones where motion detection is required. By focusing on these areas alone, Frigate reduces unnecessary processing, saving CPU resources.

Example:

yamlCopy codecameras:
  driveway:
    zones:
      car_zone:
        coordinates: 1280,720,0,720,0,0,1280,0  # Define the area for detection

5. Reduce the Number of Cameras or Disable Non-Essential Streams

If Frigate is monitoring multiple camera feeds, the CPU may become overwhelmed. Reducing the number of active cameras or disabling feeds that don’t require constant monitoring can free up processing power.

You can also specify roles for each camera, like detect or record, to control which streams require real-time detection. For cameras that don’t need object detection, consider disabling the detect role.

6. Lower the Detection Model’s Processing Requirements

Frigate allows you to choose between different object detection models. Some models are lighter and require less processing power than others, though they may not be as accurate. Switching to a more efficient model can lower CPU usage.

Alternatively, if detection accuracy is a priority, use the lighter model only during non-critical hours or for less sensitive areas.

Monitoring CPU Usage and Performance in Frigate

Keeping an eye on your system’s performance metrics can help you fine-tune settings over time. Frigate includes built-in monitoring tools to track CPU usage, memory consumption, and

Conclusion

Optimizing Frigate for lower CPU usage can be achieved with a combination of hardware acceleration, careful configuration adjustments, and strategic choices in detection settings. By applying these tips, you can ensure Frigate runs efficiently on your hardware, delivering reliable object detection without overloading your CPU. This balance allows you to enjoy a powerful NVR setup that meets both performance and energy efficiency goals.

Whether you’re using Frigate in a home or commercial setting, these optimizations can help you get the most out of your system while keeping CPU usage manageable.

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Ovestæ: A New Era of Sustainable Living

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Ovestæ: A New Era of Sustainable Living

In today’s world, where the need for sustainable living is paramount, innovative approaches and practices are emerging. Among them is the concept of “Ovestæ,” an approach centered around ecological balance, sustainable design, and green living. This article will explore what Ovestæ stands for, how it impacts sustainable living, and its relevance in today’s environmentally conscious world.

Understanding Ovestæ

Ovestæ, from the Latin root meaning “west” or “sunset,” symbolizes a transition toward a new era—a shift from traditional lifestyles to those that harmonize with nature. The term encapsulates the ideas of renewal, mindful consumption, and minimal environmental impact. It also emphasizes the importance of respecting natural resources and striving for a symbiotic relationship with the environment.

Principles of Ovestæ

At its core, Ovestæ is guided by a set of principles that encourage a holistic approach to sustainable living:

  1. Resource Conservation
    The Ovestæ lifestyle emphasizes conserving resources like water, energy, and raw materials. This principle promotes the use of renewable resources, reduction of waste, and embracing practices that minimize environmental impact.
  2. Circular Economy
    The concept of a circular economy aligns well with Ovestæ by focusing on reusing, recycling, and repurposing. It seeks to minimize waste by creating products designed for longevity, repairability, and recyclability.
  3. Eco-Friendly Architecture
    In terms of infrastructure, Ovestæ supports eco-friendly architectural designs that utilize sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies. The aim is to build structures that blend seamlessly with nature while reducing energy consumption.
  4. Mindful Consumption
    Embracing a minimalistic lifestyle, Ovestæ encourages reducing unnecessary consumption. It promotes buying locally, selecting eco-friendly products, and adopting habits that minimize one’s carbon footprint.
  5. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Protection
    Ovestæ advocates for the protection and preservation of biodiversity. It emphasizes creating green spaces, supporting local wildlife, and protecting natural habitats.

How Ovestæ Impacts Sustainable Living

Ovestæ has the potential to reshape how we think about sustainability on a global scale. Here are some key areas where Ovestæ has a significant impact:

  1. Reduced Carbon Footprint
    By advocating for energy efficiency, renewable resources, and reduced consumption, Ovestæ directly contributes to lowering individual and collective carbon footprints.
  2. Enhanced Community Engagement
    Ovestæ often involves community-based initiatives, such as urban farming, communal green spaces, and local markets. These initiatives not only promote sustainability but also build a sense of community.
  3. Economic Advantages
    Through its alignment with the circular economy, Ovestæ creates economic opportunities by emphasizing sustainable practices. This can reduce operational costs for businesses, create green jobs, and promote local economies.
  4. Environmental Health
    Ovestæ emphasizes eco-friendly materials, renewable energy, and the protection of biodiversity, all of which contribute to cleaner air, soil, and water. This, in turn, supports a healthier ecosystem and improved quality of life.

Ovestæ in Practice

Ovestæ can be seen in various aspects of life, from architecture and design to everyday habits:

  • Green Architecture and Building Materials
    New constructions under the Ovestæ approach use sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled metal. Energy-efficient designs, solar panels, and green roofs help reduce energy consumption.
  • Renewable Energy Usage
    Ovestæ advocates for the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. Many individuals and businesses are investing in these technologies to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Sustainable Food Systems
    The principles of Ovestæ promote local and organic farming practices. Community-supported agriculture (CSA), urban gardening, and food cooperatives reflect the values of Ovestæ by providing fresh, locally-grown produce while minimizing food miles and supporting local economies.
  • Waste Reduction and Recycling Initiatives
    Implementing waste reduction strategies, like composting and recycling, is another cornerstone of Ovestæ. Many communities now offer zero-waste programs and resources to help individuals adopt these practices.

Benefits of Adopting Ovestæ

Embracing Ovestæ offers a multitude of benefits, from environmental preservation to personal well-being:

  • Positive Environmental Impact
    Sustainable practices reduce pollution, conserve natural resources, and help mitigate climate change, making Ovestæ a powerful tool in environmental preservation.
  • Improved Quality of Life
    By living in cleaner, greener spaces and reducing exposure to pollutants, individuals can experience better health and well-being.
  • Economic Savings
    In the long run, adopting energy-efficient solutions and reducing consumption can lead to financial savings on utilities and other living expenses.
  • Sense of Fulfillment and Purpose
    Many who adopt sustainable living practices report feeling a greater sense of purpose, as they contribute to the preservation of the environment for future generations.

Conclusion

Ovestæ is more than just a lifestyle trend; it’s a movement that encourages a sustainable, balanced, and conscious way of living. With the challenges posed by climate change, resource depletion, and ecological imbalance, the principles of Ovestæ offer a path forward for individuals and communities alike. By adopting its values, we take a step closer to creating a healthier, more resilient planet for ourselves and future generations.

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The Devil Raises a Lady Spoiler: A Dark Tale of Power, Intrigue, and Romance

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The Devil Raises a Lady Spoiler: A Dark Tale of Power, Intrigue, and Romance

What happens when a devil raises a lady? Well, if you’re delving into this fascinating and twisted world, you’re in for an intense ride of dark fantasy, unexpected plot twists, and tantalizing romance. The webtoon “The Devil Raises a Lady” (also known as “The Devil Who Raised Her”) has captivated readers with its unique storyline and complex characters. If you’re here for spoilers, buckle up, because things are about to get interesting!

A Lady in a World of Devils

At the heart of the story is Iris Elaine, a noblewoman who has faced nothing but cruelty and betrayal from her own family. Left to fend for herself, she makes a devilish pact—literally. She finds herself under the protection (and mentorship) of Ahriman, the Devil King. But this isn’t your usual story of a damsel in distress. Iris quickly learns that in the devil’s world, survival means mastering power, intrigue, and manipulation.

Spoiler Alert: Iris’s Journey of Growth

As the plot progresses, we see Iris grow from a broken, powerless woman to a formidable force. One of the most shocking twists is her relationship with Ahriman. Initially cold and calculating, Ahriman begins to see something in Iris that no one else has—potential. He guides her in the ways of power, but there’s an undercurrent of attraction that’s hard to ignore.

The Devil’s Intentions
Ahriman’s motives, however, remain clouded in mystery. Does he truly care for Iris, or is she just a pawn in his larger game? His stoic demeanor often makes it difficult to understand what he’s thinking. But as Iris begins to rise in power and influence, it’s clear that Ahriman’s teachings go beyond simple mentorship. Could there be a romantic connection brewing beneath the surface? Well, let’s just say the slow burn is real!

The Betrayal and the Twist

One of the major spoilers in the series revolves around Iris’s family. As Iris starts to reclaim her power and influence, her family members come crawling back, trying to exploit her newfound strength for their own gain. But Iris has learned well from Ahriman—this time, she’s not the victim.

In a stunning twist, Iris orchestrates her revenge against those who wronged her. With the devil by her side, she becomes a master manipulator, turning the tables on her enemies. The once timid lady transforms into a force to be reckoned with, someone who can stand shoulder to shoulder with the Devil King himself.

A Love That Defies the Odds?

As Iris and Ahriman’s relationship deepens, we begin to wonder—is this love, or is it something more sinister? There’s undeniable chemistry between the two, but there’s also a lingering question of whether Ahriman can even experience emotions like a human. The complexity of their bond is what keeps readers hooked. Just when you think you understand their dynamic, the story throws another curveball, making you question everything.

The Devil’s Bargain

A crucial part of the story is the notion of bargains with the devil, and in this case, the ultimate question remains: What will Iris have to give up in exchange for everything she has gained? Power in the devil’s world is never free, and the price could be something that even Iris, with all her newfound strength, might not be prepared to pay. By the end of the series, you’re left wondering if the devil truly raised the lady, or if it was the lady who tamed the devil.

Final Thoughts

“The Devil Raises a Lady” delivers a gripping tale of empowerment, revenge, and dark romance. It’s a story where the line between good and evil blurs, and where love and power often walk hand in hand. For those who enjoy a mix of fantasy, intrigue, and a bit of dark romance, this webtoon is a must-read.

The spoilers above barely scratch the surface of the intricate plot and character development that make this story so compelling. Whether you’re rooting for Iris to overcome her past or intrigued by Ahriman’s enigmatic presence, one thing is clear—this story is a devilishly good time.

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