#Lava growth strategy

[insightfultake]

Lava’s Billion-Dollar Gambit: A Homegrown Contender Readies for Battle Against Foreign Giants

In the grand chessboard of India’s smartphone market, where foreign players have long dominated with deep pockets and aggressive pricing, a homegrown challenger is quietly fortifying its ramparts. Lava International, the indigenous smartphone and accessories brand, is gearing up for an audacious expansion, arming itself with a war chest of ₹500 crore ($58 million) in fresh funding. As the company inches towards a public listing, it aims to carve out a formidable presence in an industry where Chinese brands have historically held sway.

[pier-carlo-universe]

Adasta (Gruppo Execus) consolida la crescita: nel 2024 ricavi a 2,5 milioni di euro e sbarco nei mercati UK e US

La concessionaria pubblicitaria digitale conferma la crescita in Italia, accelera sull’internazionalizzazione e punta su tecnologia proprietaria e nuove partnership editoriali. Milano, 09 aprile 2025 – Adasta, una tra le principali concessionarie pubblicitarie digitali italiane, controllata daExecus S.p.A., MarTech Company quotata su Euronext Growth Milan che guida la trasformazione digitale e…

[tejastravels1]

Complete Guide to Best Team-Building Destinations Near Bangalore (2025 Update)

🚀 Why Team Outings Near Bangalore Are More Than Just Fun

Did you know? According to a study by Gallup, highly engaged teams show 21% greater profitability. In India, companies like Flipkart, Infosys, and Razorpay regularly invest in team outings to improve collaboration and morale.

Team-building is no longer a checkbox — it’s a strategic culture tool. And with Bangalore’s unbeatable access to nature, adventure, and resorts, you don’t need to look far for the perfect destination.

🌄 Top 10 Team-Building Destinations Near Bangalore That Actually Work

📍 Ramanagara (50 km) – Famous for its rocky terrain and the backdrop of Sholay, it's ideal for rock climbing and trekking. Startups like Zerodha have used it for outbound training.

📍 Nandi Hills (60 km) – An early morning trek, followed by a strategy session with a view? Yes, please. Many IT firms choose this spot for sunrise motivation.

📍 Kanakapura – Perfect for nature camps like Nature Adventure Camp. Offers kayaking, ziplining, and obstacle courses tailored for large groups.

📍 Coorg (250 km) – Think coffee plantations, team hikes, and plantation stays. Amazon India’s team has used it for its sales retreats.

📍 Kabini – For eco-conscious companies, this is ideal. Safari + riverside bonding = unmatched experience.

📍 Skandagiri – Midnight treks bring in the adrenaline and morning peace. Great for tech teams needing a reset.

📍 Anthargange – Lava caves and mystery walks are perfect for problem-solving activities.

📍 Chikmagalur – Great for overnight getaways. Offers homestays, estate walks, and bonfire storytelling.

📍 Guhantara Resort – An underground-themed resort with paintball, rain dance, and obstacle courses. Loved by HRs planning fun-yet-structured outings.

📍 Mango Mist Resort – A hit for day outings. Pool games, fish spa, and barbecue setups for team lunch bonding.

🎯 Looking for Something Different? Try These Offbeat Venues

✨ Bheemeshwari Nature Camp – For wildlife lovers, it's just 100 km away and offers river rafting and rope courses.

✨ Bylakuppe – Want culture with calm? Organize mindfulness retreats for your team with monastic sessions and Tibetan cuisine.

✨ Channapatna Eco Farm – Engage in eco-building activities, organic farming, and rural problem-solving workshops.

These are the kind of places where real transformation happens — not just fun photos.

🏕️ Resorts That Do More Than Just Stay – They Facilitate Team Growth

🏢 Shilhaandara Resort – Ideal for corporate groups. Rope courses, cave spa, and mountain views make it highly sought-after.

🏢 Eagle Ridge Resort – Known for its spacious layout and group games. Great for HR teams planning icebreakers.

🏢 Golden Palms Resort – Luxurious pick for leadership-level retreats. Many Fortune 500s host quarterly meetups here.

They don’t just offer food and stay — they provide curated team-building modules, often customizable to company culture.

⛺ Best Weekend Getaways That Double as Team Retreats

If your team needs more than a one-day break, these destinations offer that perfect recharge:

🌲 Sakleshpur – Misty mornings, estate walks, bonfire dinners. Popular among tech teams for 2-day brainstorming getaways.

🌿 Kabini – Jungle resorts, eco-lodges, and riverside reflections. Ideal for mindfulness sessions.

☕ Coorg & Chikmagalur – Plantation trails + coffee tasting = unique team learning atmosphere.

You can also rely on Tejas Travels, a trusted tour and travels company, to get your entire team there safely and comfortably. Their bus rental services are specifically designed for group outings and corporate travel.

🧭 How to Plan a Seamless Team Outing (Without the Stress)

🎯 Define clear goals — bonding, problem-solving, or relaxation 🎯 Select a venue based on travel time, team size & activities 🎯 Book early — especially during peak seasons like October & March 🎯 Consider hiring travel experts like Tejas Travels — they offer bus rental and coach rental that can accommodate large teams and even include entertainment onboard

🚌 For large groups, opt for their bus transportation service with AC sleeper coaches or wedding bus hire options (luxurious and perfect for comfort!). It’s not just about travel — it’s about the experience from start to finish.

🚌 Tejas Travels – Your Corporate Travel Partner for Every Journey

With over 20 years of trust, Tejas Travels is one of the top bus rental companies in Bangalore. Whether it's a 10-seater tempo traveler or a 49-seater coach, their travel bus rental service includes:

🛣️ Professional drivers trained for long-distance 🛣️ Clean, sanitized vehicles with onboard amenities 🛣️ GPS tracking & punctual pickups 🛣️ Customized team travel plans

Many Bangalore-based companies, from Wipro to Byju’s, trust Tejas Travels for their team events and intercity movements.

🎤 Real Stories from Real Teams

🗣️ “Our Coorg retreat helped us reset after a stressful quarter. Thanks to Tejas Travels, we had smooth travel and full flexibility.” – HR, Razorpay

🗣️ “Our outbound session at Guhantara helped us onboard 50+ new employees in a single day. Tejas' coach rental made it possible.” – Admin Lead, Swiggy

Stories like these show that it’s not just the destination — it's the planning and partnership that make it memorable.

🧠 FAQs: Quick Answers for Your Team Outing Planning

❓ How far are these places from Bangalore? Ranges from 50 km (Ramanagara) to 300 km (Coorg/Chikmagalur)

❓ What’s the ideal team size? Anything from 10 to 100. Resorts like Mango Mist and Eagle Ridge cater to larger groups.

❓ What’s the best season for outings? October to March is ideal. Avoid monsoons unless it’s a resort with indoor options.

❓ Should I rent a travel bus or tempo traveler? If you’re more than 15 people, coach rental or bus hire from Tejas Travels is a smoother experience.

🏁 Final Word

Team-building near Bangalore isn’t just convenient — it’s transformative when done right. From misty hills to luxury resorts, and from adrenaline adventures to peaceful retreats, the options are endless.

✨ Let Tejas Travels handle your journey so your team can focus on what matters — building trust, collaboration, and lasting memories.

📞 Ready to roll? Contact Tejas Travels today for your corporate outing bus rental service!

[glassboxdiaries]

7 Ways To Easily Reduce Nitrate Levels In Aquariums!

If you've ever struggled with algae outbreaks, sluggish fish, or poor plant growth, excess nitrate might be the culprit. In today’s video, I’ll be showing you how you can reduce nitrate levels in your aquarium, starting with easy tips you can apply to almost any setup, and moving into more advanced strategies that can make a big difference in the right conditions.

Nitrate is the end product of the nitrogen cycle in your tank. When leftover fish food, fish waste, and decaying plant matter break down, they first release ammonia. That ammonia is toxic, so beneficial bacteria convert it into nitrite—also toxic—and finally into nitrate. While nitrate is less harmful, it can still cause stress to your fish and trigger algae growth if levels get too high.

So, what can you do about it?

We start with the basics: reducing your tank’s bioload. You don’t necessarily need to remove fish—just cut down on overfeeding. Uneaten food and excess waste are huge contributors to nitrate buildup. Feeding only what your fish need, and removing uneaten food within five minutes, can go a long way.

Next, we tackle filter maintenance. Filters trap debris that slowly breaks down and releases nitrate. Cleaning your filter regularly—especially replacing filter floss and rinsing biomedia—helps stop this before it starts. I deep-clean my 40-gallon’s canister filter monthly, and it’s helped keep algae at bay.

Of course, water changes are the most common nitrate-reduction method. But here’s the twist: they don’t always work. Depending on where you live, your tap water might already contain 20–30+ ppm of nitrate. In parts of England, for example, tap water nitrate levels exceed what you'd want in a planted tank. I link to a Homecure study in the video showing nitrate levels across the UK. If you live in a high-nitrate area, water changes might actually make things worse.

So what’s the alternative? Live plants.

Plants help reduce nitrate in two ways. First, they absorb ammonium, a less toxic form of ammonia, before it can be converted into nitrate. Fast-growing plants like floaters and stem plants are especially good at this. And once ammonium is used up, plants start using nitrate directly as a nutrient—effectively reducing levels in your tank.

If your tank is heavily planted and lightly stocked, plants alone might keep your nitrate below 20 ppm. That’s where most of mine sit. For most community fish, shrimp, and snails, that’s a safe range.

Looking for something more advanced? The second half of the video covers anoxic filtration.

I explain how denitrifying bacteria—which live in low-oxygen environments like lava rock or deep sand beds—can convert nitrate into nitrogen gas. While harder to prove in a home tank, I’ve seen nitrate levels drop in unplanted tanks with no water changes, likely due to this bacterial action.

And finally, we look at Anammox bacteria, which work differently by consuming ammonium and nitrite directly, skipping nitrate entirely. These microbes thrive in oxygen-poor zones and add another layer of natural nitrate reduction, though they’re part of a complex microbial ecosystem that also includes other bacteria and even archaea.

I use lava rock not just for filtration but also as a lightweight, budget-friendly hardscape. Its porous structure may support both denitrifying and Anammox bacteria as a bonus.

[ritscapital]

Buy and Sell Lava Unlisted Shares Online in India

Looking to tap into high-growth opportunities before they hit the stock exchanges? Lava International, a leading Indian mobile handset brand, offers a compelling case for pre-IPO investors. With its innovative product lineup, strong domestic presence, and ambitious global expansion plans, Lava Unlisted Shares are gaining traction in the unlisted market. At Rits Capital, we make it seamless for you to buy and sell these shares online, unlocking exclusive investment potential. 

Lava International 

“A Leading Force in India’s Mobile Industry”

Have you ever heard of a brand that has established itself in a highly competitive environment, alongside giants like Nokia, Samsung, and others? Lava International is one such brand that has carved out a significant position in the Indian mobile phone sector. Despite facing tough competition from industry leaders, Lava has successfully gained a strong foothold by focusing on affordable smartphones and feature phones, catering to the needs of India’s vast rural and semi-urban populations.      Founded in 2009 by Vishal Sehgal, Hari om sai, Sudhir Kumar, and Shailendra Singh, Lava International Unlisted Shares has proven that with the right management and business model, a homegrown brand can thrive in competitive markets. Operating in over 25 international markets, including South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, Lava has successfully captured a 25% stake in the Indian feature phone market. 

Key Highlights of Lava Internatinol Unlisted Share

Lava International: Growth, Strengths & Future Prospects 

 Strong Market Presence & Brand Recognition 

Feature Phone Dominance: 25% market share in 2023.   

Smartphone Expansion: Focus on affordable 5G models to attract young users.   

Brand Strengthening: Investing in marketing and customer engagement to compete with global brands.   

 Manufacturing & R&D Capabilities 

Advanced Production Hub: Noida facility with 70% capacity utilization under Make in India.  

R&D Innovation: Dedicated research center for next-gen mobile technologies.  

Localized Supply Chain: Increasing domestic component sourcing to reduce import dependency.   

      3.    Global Expansion 

Presence in 25+ Countries: Strong markets in Thailand (No. 2 feature phone brand) and Latin America.   

Strategic Acquisitions: B Mobile acquisition aiding expansion in emerging markets.   

Export Growth: Leveraging India’s cost advantage to compete globally.   

    4. Government Support & PLI Benefits 

PLI Scheme Incentives:4-6% subsidy on sub-₹15,000 smartphones, boosting margins.   

Competitive Advantage: Favorable policies for domestic manufacturers over foreign brands.   

Sustained Support: Government incentives aiding long-term growth and expansion.   

    5. Financial Performance & Growth  

Revenue Surge: ₹5,000 crore ($600M) in FY 2023 (+15% YoY).   

Profitability Boost: ₹250 crore ($30M) net profit, driven by efficiency and PLI benefits.   

Export Success: ₹1,500 crore ($180M) in exports, strengthening global footprint.   

6. Upcoming IPO & Exit Strategy   

IPO Plans in Motion: Potential listing to unlock investor value.  

Valuation Growth: Strong financials attracting institutional interest.   

Exit Strategy: Lucrative opportunity for early investors seeking high returns.   

With a robust domestic presence, expanding global footprint, and government-backed incentives Lava International is positioned for sustained growth and market leadership.. 

Financial Highlights (FY 2024) – Competitor Comparison 

Key MetricsLava InternationalMicromaxSamsung IndiaXiaomi IndiaRevenue(FY 2024) ₹3,646 Cr ($437M) ₹2,800 Cr ($336M) ₹79,200 Cr ($9.5B) ₹78,000 Cr ($9.3B) Gross Margins��21.86% 19.5% 22.8% 20.6% Profit after tax ₹34 Cr ($4M) ₹20 Cr ($2.4M) ₹2,100 Cr ($252M) ₹1,800 Cr ($216M) Return on equity 2.78% 2.4% 3.5% 3.2% Debt to equity 0.23 0.30 0.18 0.22 Net Profit margin 1.60% 1.10% 2.65% 2.30% Global strength 25+ Countries 15+ Countries 180+ Countries 100+ Countries Major strength Strong Local Manufacturing Comeback Strategy Premium & Mid-Range Dominance Affordable Pricing & Online Sales 

How to Buy and Sell Lava Unlisted Shares?

Buying Lava Unlisted Shares 

Find a Trusted Dealer or Platform – Use reputed intermediaries specializing in unlisted shares. 

 Check Current Valuation – Lava’s unlisted share price fluctuates based on demand and supply. 

 Complete KYC & Payment – Submit PAN, Aadhaar, and bank details, then transfer funds to buy shares. 

Get Delivery of Shares – Shares are credited to your Demat account within T+2 days. 

Selling Lava Unlisted Shares 

Find a Buyer or Platform – You can sell through brokers or peer-to-peer deals. 

Negotiate Price & Confirm Trade – Prices depend on Lava’s financials, IPO prospects, and market demand. 

Transfer Shares & Receive Payment – Once the deal is executed, funds are credited to your account. 

Key Considerations Before Investing 

Liquidity Risk – Unlisted shares have lower liquidity than listed stocks. 

IPO Potential – If Lava launches an IPO, unlisted investors may get a premium exit. 

Holding Period & Taxation – Holding unlisted shares for 2+ years reduces tax liability on capital gains. 

Conclusion 

Lava International’s strategic expansion, financial resilience, and government-backed incentives position it as a key player in India’s growing mobile industry. While the company has faced revenue fluctuations, its strong gross margin improvements and future IPO plans indicate a promising growth trajectory. As it continues to innovate and scale, Lava remains a high-potential investment opportunity in the Indian mobile manufacturing ecosystem. 

Stay tuned for more updates on Lava International’s IPO and market performance.  

[technovoyager]

The Ultimate Guide to Amsterdam Advertising Agencies for Emerging Brands

Amsterdam, with its dynamic blend of culture, innovation, and entrepreneurship, has become a powerful center for branding and marketing across Europe. For emerging brands, especially startups and small businesses, tapping into the creative capital that advertising agencies Amsterdam offer can mean the difference between simply launching and truly thriving.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore what makes Amsterdam’s advertising landscape so compelling, how to choose the right agency, and which agencies are leading the charge for brand transformation and growth.

Why Amsterdam Is a Hub for Creative Advertising

Known for its vibrant art scene, diversity, and openness to innovation, Amsterdam naturally fosters creativity. This makes the city a magnet for top advertising talent and forward-thinking agencies. From global agencies to boutique creative studios, advertising agencies Amsterdam serve clients from every industry—fashion, tech, sustainability, lifestyle, and more.

Many agencies are fluent in both local and global branding, offering bilingual services, multicultural campaign expertise, and extensive knowledge of European and international markets.

What Emerging Brands Need from an Ad Agency

When launching a new brand or scaling a small business, marketing must be both strategic and resource-efficient. Here’s what emerging brands typically look for from advertising agencies Amsterdam:

Brand strategy and positioning

Visual identity and logo design

Content marketing and storytelling

Social media management and growth

Performance marketing (PPC, SEO, and paid social)

Website and landing page development

Most importantly, startups need agencies that understand the hustle. Agencies with experience in startup marketing are often more flexible, fast-moving, and ROI-driven—ideal for companies that need to make every euro count.

Leading Advertising Agencies Amsterdam for New Brands

If you’re a founder, marketer, or entrepreneur looking to make a splash, here are some of the top advertising agencies Amsterdam that specialize in helping new businesses grow.

1. Ace Agency

Ace is known for its sharp branding and creative campaigns. They’re particularly strong in lifestyle and entertainment branding, with clients ranging from festivals to fashion labels.

2. Lava Amsterdam

Lava is a strategy-first branding agency that helps emerging brands craft powerful identities. Their work blends Dutch design aesthetics with modern digital storytelling.

3. The Brave New Now

Perfect for brands with a mission, Brave New Now works with companies creating change. They excel in combining branding with social impact and cultural relevance.

4. Born05

With a focus on content-led digital experiences, Born05 creates immersive brand worlds through storytelling, motion design, and UX development.

5. GUC Agency

GUC (Give Us a Chance) works with startups and scale-ups to develop bold campaigns that drive growth. Their services span branding, digital marketing, and advertising strategy.

Each of these advertising agencies Amsterdam brings something unique, from data-driven performance to immersive design. The common thread? A dedication to helping new brands stand out.

Benefits of Working with Amsterdam Ad Agencies

Why choose advertising agencies Amsterdam over others? Here are the top reasons:

Global Perspective: Amsterdam is a melting pot, and local agencies are often internationally staffed, offering global reach with local insight.

Creative Edge: The city’s design-forward culture is reflected in branding, content, and digital experiences.

Tech Integration: From CRM and automation to e-commerce and analytics, Amsterdam agencies blend marketing with modern tech.

Collaborative Culture: Agencies are approachable, communicative, and hands-on—especially valuable for early-stage brands.

Advertising Trends Emerging in Amsterdam

To stay competitive, agencies are adapting to new trends that benefit emerging brands. These include:

Sustainable branding: Many agencies now emphasize environmental and social responsibility in campaigns.

Short-form video: TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts are increasingly central to advertising strategies.

Personalization: Agencies use data to tailor messaging and creatives to micro-audiences.

AI and automation: Smart tools help agencies boost efficiency and performance.

Advertising agencies Amsterdam are not just keeping up—they’re helping shape the future of digital marketing and brand engagement.

Services to Look For in Your Advertising Partner

When choosing an agency, prioritize those that offer services aligned with your growth stage. Here are some key offerings that new brands should consider:

Creative branding: Logos, brand books, typography, color systems.

Campaign ideation: Concept development and storytelling.

Media planning and buying: Getting your message in front of the right audience.

Social media growth: Organic content, influencer marketing, and ad spend.

Website optimization: Conversion-driven landing pages and UX.

Many advertising agencies Amsterdam offer a mix of these services through monthly retainers or project-based packages.

Real-World Results: Case Example

A fintech startup based in Amsterdam partnered with a mid-sized agency to launch its mobile app. The agency handled:

Naming and brand identity

Social media strategy and paid campaigns

App store optimization

Within three months of launch, the app achieved:

10,000+ downloads

Featured spots on tech blogs

A 4.8-star rating across platforms

This kind of early success would have been harder to achieve without strategic support from a local advertising agency in Amsterdam that understood the market.

Related Keywords and Phrases to Know

When researching agencies, you’ll also come across these related terms:

Digital marketing agencies Amsterdam

Creative branding studios Netherlands

Startup advertising Amsterdam

Growth marketing services

Social media marketing firms

Performance marketing experts

These keywords often point to agencies offering the kinds of services most useful to new and emerging brands.

Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Right Amsterdam Ad Agency

No two businesses are the same—and neither are advertising agencies. Choosing the right partner involves evaluating:

Portfolio and client list: Have they worked with similar brands?

Industry focus: Do they understand your target audience?

Cultural fit: Do you vibe with the team’s communication and style?

Service structure: Do they offer packages, retainers, or ad-hoc support?

Amsterdam’s agencies are versatile, accessible, and rich in talent. With clear goals and a bit of research, you’ll find an advertising partner that can take your brand to the next level.

Key Takeaways

The ecosystem of advertising agencies Amsterdam is ideal for emerging brands. Whether you’re preparing to launch, looking to scale, or entering a new market, the city offers top-tier talent ready to help you grow.

By partnering with the right agency, your brand can rise above the noise, make a lasting impression, and drive meaningful results. So if you’re ready to accelerate your brand journey, Amsterdam is the place—and its advertising agencies are your ultimate allies.

[voiceoffreedom24]

Controlled degassing of the Siberian Magma Plume Plus Ocean Cleanup could save our world.

Egon Cholakian:Registered Federal Lobbyist, United States Senate. House of Representatives. The White House

▪️ Registered Foreign Agent, United States Department of Justice / National Security Division

▪️ National Security Expert | Representative: ALLATRA

If the Siberian plume erupts in a sudden explosion, it will be too late to evacuate from Siberia. Those caught in the affected zone will die instantly. Humanity will not survive. At that point, at least plastic will no longer be a concern—it will be incinerated along with us.

But there is another way: controlled degassing. If paired with ocean cleanup efforts, this process could save our world.

However, Russian media features comments from so-called specialists who claim there is no threat from the Siberian plume because, allegedly, plumes move slowly—rising at just 4 centimeters per year.

I hate to disappoint you, colleagues, but your calculations on the speed of magma plume ascent are based solely on theoretical models and observations of modern, stable plume structures. Where did the concept even come from that plumes supposedly rise only a few centimeters per year? You rely solely on the layers of solidified lava from past eruptions, but that provides no basis for determining how quickly the magma plume actually moved within the mantle.

You have no idea how fast plumes rise when they are first forming. And more importantly, the Earth has never before experienced the simultaneous ascent of a mantle plume and an increase in intramantle eruptions. We are currently in extraordinary conditions—conditions that Earth's geological history has never encountered before.

Take a look at your own seismic tomography—melted material at the core, known as LLSVP zones, is expanding right before your eyes. Let me explain precisely what LLSVP zones are: these are massive regions of molten material at the Earth's core that are detected because seismic waves travel through them more slowly than through the rest of the mantle. You must understand that the size of these zones was underestimated in previous calculations. In reality, their growth indicates that mantle melting is progressing at an inexorable pace. This incredibly rapid mantle melting—by geological standards—is precisely why the Siberian plume has risen from the depths within just a few decades, contrary to your theoretical calculations.

Learn more here: Russia is abandoning Siberia

on canal Earth Save Science Collaborative

climate report 'On The Progression Of Climatic Disasters On Earth And Their Catastrophic Consequences).

ON THE THREAT OF A MAGMA PLUME ERUPTION IN SIBERIA AND STRATEGIES FOR ADDRESSING THE ISSUE

[voice-freedom]

The patented methods for planned degassing and reducing the risks of volcanic and supervolcanic eruptions.

ALLATRA volunteer reveals the future of all humanity…

Today, humanity possesses sufficient technological and engineering potential to intervene in volcanic systems. However, each case of planned degassing requires meticulous preparation, analysis of extensive data, and highly precise calculations. Even with these measures, risks remain.

There are also patented methods for planned degassing and reducing the risks of volcanic and supervolcanic eruptions. For example, the technology, patented by two Russian experts, involves preventing uncontrolled, cascading volcanic eruptions by using angled drilling of wells to regulate pressure within magma chambers.

Patent invention description : Method for preventing an avalanche-like volcanic eruption.

Another technology was developed by an American inventor. It outlines methods for evacuating magma from volcanic magmatic chambers, such as the chamber of the Yellowstone supervolcano, to prevent potential catastrophic eruptions.

The core idea involves creating artificial channels (tubes) to direct magma to the surface, where it can be processed and potentially utilized, for example, in energy production. Two primary approaches are considered: the cooling method and the heating method.

The #patented methods for planned degassing and reducing the risks of volcanic and supervolcanic eruptions. 2007

The Japanese project "Unzen Scientific Drilling Project" (USDP) was a six-year initiative launched in April 1999. Its goal was to study the growth history, subsurface structure and magma ascending mechanism at Unzen #Volcano.

The first phase involved drilling two boreholes into the volcano's flank and creating a model of its structure. The second phase focused on drilling into the magma conduit from the 1990–1995 eruptions to analyze the degassing mechanism. A specialized drilling strategy was developed to ensure success, incorporating vertical drilling followed by an increase in the hole’s inclination.

OSG #logging services (borehole survey)

Gallery

Gallery

Fig 1. Image of lava dome and upper part of the conduit at Unzen. Effective degassing from foamy magma occurred during its fragmentation and annealing in the upper part of conduit. The conduit condition will be investigated in drilling main hole (USDP-4) in 2003, and continuous coring will be performed by drilling sidetrack hole (USDP-4a) in 2004.

Fig. 2. Trajectories of conduit drilling. New RS-3 and RS-3 are drilling sites of main-sidetrack holes and a pilot hole, respectively.

4-5 Unzen Scientific Drilling Project (USDP)

conduit

More in the video:Siberia: To Be or Not to Be? | #6 on canal Voice of freedom

[freddiemark]

Analyzing Lava Share Price: Latest News & Updates

Introduction to Lava Share Price:

Lava International Limited, a prominent Indian smartphone manufacturer, has garnered considerable attention in the market lately due to its share price movements. Investors and analysts are closely monitoring the company's performance, looking for insights into its future trajectory. In this article, we delve into the latest news and updates surrounding Lava share price, examining key factors influencing its movement and providing insights for investors.

1. Recent Performance:

Lava share price has experienced notable fluctuations in recent months, influenced by various internal and external factors. The company's performance in the smartphone market, competitive positioning, financial results, and industry trends all contribute to these fluctuations.

2. Market Positioning and Competition:

Lava operates in a highly competitive market dominated by established players like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Apple. The company faces stiff competition in both domestic and international markets, requiring strategic initiatives to enhance its market share and profitability.

3. Strategic Partnerships and Expansion Plans:

To strengthen its competitive position, Lava has been actively pursuing strategic partnerships and expansion plans. Collaborations with e-commerce platforms, retail chains, and telecom operators aim to broaden the company's reach and improve its distribution network. Additionally, Lava's focus on innovation and product differentiation is critical for sustaining growth amidst intense competition.

4. Financial Performance and Outlook:

Lava's financial performance is a key determinant of Lava share price movement. Investors closely scrutinize the company's revenue growth, profitability, cash flow, and balance sheet strength. Quarterly earnings reports and financial disclosures provide valuable insights into Lava's operational efficiency and financial health, influencing investor sentiment and share price dynamics.

5. Technological Advancements and Product Innovation:

Innovation is a cornerstone of Lava strategy to differentiate itself in the competitive smartphone market. The company's investment in research and development (R&D) drives technological advancements and product innovation, enabling Lava to introduce feature-rich and affordable smartphones tailored to the preferences of diverse consumer segments. The success of new product launches and the reception from consumers play a crucial role in shaping investor confidence and share price performance.

6. Regulatory Environment and Policy Changes:

Changes in the regulatory environment, including government policies related to taxation, import duties, and foreign direct investment (FDI), can impact Lava's operations and financial performance. Investors closely monitor regulatory developments and their potential implications for the company's profitability and competitiveness.

7. Market Sentiment and Investor Perception:

Market sentiment and investor perception significantly influence Lava share price movement. Positive developments such as new product launches, strategic partnerships, and strong financial results can boost investor confidence and drive share prices higher. Conversely, negative news, operational challenges, or macroeconomic uncertainties may lead to investor caution and downward pressure on share prices.

8. Analyst Recommendations and Price Targets:

Analysts regularly cover Lava stock, providing insights and recommendations based on fundamental and technical analysis. Analyst reports often include price targets, earnings estimates, and investment ratings, which investors use to gauge the company's valuation and investment potential. However, it's essential to consider multiple perspectives and conduct thorough research before making investment decisions based solely on analyst recommendations.

9. Risk Factors and Uncertainties:

Investing in Lava shares entails inherent risks and uncertainties, including market volatility, competitive pressures, technological disruptions, regulatory changes, and macroeconomic factors. Investors should carefully assess these risk factors and diversify their investment portfolios to mitigate potential losses.

10. Conclusion:

The dynamics of Lava share price are influenced by a myriad of factors, including market trends, competitive dynamics, financial performance, technological advancements, regulatory environment, and investor sentiment. Keeping abreast of the latest news and updates, conducting thorough research, and exercising prudence are essential for investors seeking to navigate the volatile landscape of the stock market and make informed investment decisions regarding Lava's shares. In summary, while Lava share price may experience fluctuations in the short term, a comprehensive understanding of the company's fundamentals, strategic initiatives, and industry dynamics can empower investors to capitalize on long-term growth opportunities and create value in their investment portfolios.

[pier-carlo-universe]

Digital Marketing: Nasce Digital Echo, piattaforma europea AI-based di link building e digital PR per la content distribution. Milano

Milano, 3 aprile 2025 – Ridefinire il modo in cui marketer e agenzie media, SEO e PR pianificano e distribuiscono i propri contenuti sul Web: questo è l’obiettivo di Digital Echo, piattaforma europea AI-based per la distribuzione di articoli Web, partecipata da Adasta– una tra le principali concessionarie pubblicitarie digitali italiane, controllata daExecus S.p.A., MarTech Company quotata su…

[unsdg13climateaction]

Zoom Meeting summary for MASTERING EXAM WITH CONFIDENCE

23Feb2024 (02/23/2024)

___

QUICK RECAP:

The webinar discussed the importance of emotional resilience, overcoming fear of failure, and transforming challenges into opportunities. The speakers emphasized the role of effective time management and maintaining a positive mindset. They also highlighted the significance of a balanced diet and regular physical activity. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the role of motivation in learning and education.

__

SUMMARY:

Four Guest speakers:

Dr. Ruksana Hassan

Mrs. Sabural Banu Ibrahim

Dr. Neetha M Lava

and

Mr. Rajesh T

__

Guest Speaker: Dr Ruksana Hassan, Educational Psychologist

Topic: Overcoming Fear, Managing Time

(Webinar on Exam Mastery)

Dr Ruksana Hassan highlighted the importance of not fearing failure and using it as a stepping stone to success. She emphasized the importance of managing fear and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. The discussion also touched upon parent-child dynamics and the pressure parents may feel regarding their child's academic performance. Dr Ruksana Hassan encouraged attendees to focus on their timeline and not dwell on past or future events. She also stressed the importance of effective time management.

____

Guest Speaker: Mrs Sabural Banu Ibrahim, Principal, SBOAMHSS Coimbatore.

Topic: Resilience and Confidence-Building in Students

Mrs.Sabural Banu Ibrahim spoke about the importance of resilience and confidence-building in students. She emphasized the need for precautionary measures to develop these traits. The discussion highlighted the significance of learning, adaptability, and time management, particularly for students preparing for board exams. She also stressed the idea of perseverance, encouraging students to have a positive mindset and believe in their abilities.

The conversation concluded with urging students to persist in their efforts towards achieving their goals.

Brain, Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Happiness: Mrs SBI discussed the human brain and its connection to data sciences and artificial intelligence. She emphasized the role of positive thinking in brain circuit formation and the importance of time management, gadget usage, and sleep for students.

___

Guest Speaker: Dr Neetha M Lava, Naturopathy Physician and clinical dietitian

Dr Neetha M Lava, who would discuss effective eating habits for students to enhance exam preparation.

Topic: Stress, Diet, and Exam Periods

Dr Neetha M Lava emphasized the role of diet in managing stress, especially during exam periods. She highlighted that certain foods can boost brain performance, while others can make it lethargic and unfocused. She warned about the potential changes in body weight and nutritional deficiencies caused by stress-induced changes in appetite and physical activity levels.

Dr Neetha M Lava stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy breakfast, incorporating extra proteins and vitamins into the diet, and avoiding sugary and caffeinated items. She also advocated for regular physical activity and adequate sleep to enhance brain function and overall well-being.

__

Guest Speaker: Mr Rajesh T, HR Mentor, Psychologist, Director: CEST

Mr. Rajesh T, a mentor and psychologist, spoke about the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and resilience in both personal and professional life. He also stressed the significance of a healthy diet and advised against skipping breakfast.

Topic: Exam Strategies: Mr. Rajesh T advised students on how to approach exams, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good sleep habits, not changing their schedules for exams, and not cramming. He suggested starting studying a bit earlier, focusing on all the material, not just the highlighted parts, and not discussing future exam questions with friends or teachers. He recommended maintaining a calm and focused attitude towards exams and taking time to relax after them.

At the end of the meeting,

A Colorful Discussion:

The meeting primarily focused on the topic of motivation, particularly in relation to learning and education. Mrs Sabural Banu Ibrahim and Dr Ravi Kumar L P, shared their insights, with sabural emphasizing the importance of turning challenges into milestones and Dr Ravi Kumar L P,discussing the role of motivational anecdotes.

Dr Ruksana Hassan introduced a unique method of "color therapy" for learning, suggesting that students use different colors to represent the difficulty or ease of study topics. Dr Ruksana Hassan and Dr Ravi Kumar L P had a discussion about various topics, including motivation and resilience.

Overall 348 participants were there in the meeting and 101 participants were present till the end of the meeting.

Rating: Commendable

States covered: Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, Uttarpradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Punjab , Harayana and Assam

Countries: Kenya, Kuwait, Uganda, Somaliland, India and Pakistan

Participation certificates were issued through participants email ID.

The National UN Volunteers-India Presentation

[glassboxdiaries]

The Nitrogen Cycle Explained: Everything You Need To Maintain Safe Water Parameters In Aquariums!

How To Cycle Your Aquarium - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhuaurdDlhE The Best Plants For Walstad Method Aquariums - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ7BDAKkhRs

​​The Nitrogen Cycle Explained: Everything You Need To Maintain Safe Water Parameters In Aquariums!

Welcome to my detailed guide on the Nitrogen Cycle, the essential process that stabilizes aquarium ecosystems. In this video, I’ll explain how ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate develop in your tank and show you practical steps to keep these compounds in check for the health of your fish.

Ammonia often enters your aquarium through uneaten food, fish waste, and plant decay. This toxic compound can quickly harm gills and cause stress. Luckily, beneficial bacteria and archaea populate surfaces like filter media to turn ammonia into nitrite, offering the first step toward safer water.

Nitrite is still dangerous and can interfere with fish blood oxygen transport. To combat rising nitrite, another group of bacteria converts it into nitrate, which is less toxic. At this stage, partial water changes and live plants help control nitrate buildup and maintain a healthier ecosystem.

For beginners, a fishless cycling approach is often best. You simply introduce an ammonia source, measure parameters every few days, and wait for ammonia and nitrite to reach zero. Once nitrate appears, you’ve established the Nitrogen Cycle and can add fish with greater confidence and fewer risks.

Live plants excel at supporting the Nitrogen Cycle by absorbing various nitrogen compounds for growth. They also release oxygen, improving bacterial efficiency, and their roots add extra surface area for microorganisms. Fast-growing species remove ammonia and nitrate more effectively, so consider plants like hornwort or water wisteria.

Advanced setups sometimes use porous materials like lava rock or pumice stone. These can foster low-oxygen zones for special bacteria that turn nitrate into nitrogen gas, which naturally leaves the tank. Though setting up these areas may be complex, they can drastically reduce nitrate levels over time.

Always test your water with a reliable kit. Aim for zero ammonia and nitrite, while allowing some manageable nitrate. If tests show high readings, adjust feeding habits, increase water changes, or add more plants. Keeping a close eye on these parameters ensures your Nitrogen Cycle remains stable and your fish stay healthy.

With the Nitrogen Cycle in check, you can enjoy a vibrant aquarium and happier fish. Stay flexible and ready to adapt your strategy based on your tank’s needs and water conditions. If this video helped you understand how to maintain a balanced system, please like and subscribe, and feel free to ask any questions below.

Remember that regular maintenance, careful feeding, and frequent parameter checks are essential. By mastering the Nitrogen Cycle, you’ll prevent toxic spikes, save on costly treatments, and keep your fish stress-free. Thanks for watching and good luck with your aquarium adventure!

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Intro 00:23 - What Is The Nitrogen Cycle? 00:50 - The Aquarium Nitrogen Cycle Explained 05:15 - Managing Ammonia 12:15 - Managing Ammonium 16:47 - Managing Nitrite 20:36 - Managing Nitrate 24:41 - How To Check The Nitrogen Cycle Is Complete

Some of the links in this video description may be affiliate links meaning I earn a small commission from any purchases made.

[ailtrahq]

Volcano Energy and Luxor have created Lava Pool, making it the first Bitcoin mining pool in El Salvador. The objective is to tap into the geothermal energy resources of the country. The development comes almost two years after El Salvador announced making BTC a legal tender. Volcano Energy will now mine Bitcoin in the country and contribute 23% of its net income to the government. This will be done under the private-public partnership initiative. BTC will be mined exclusively from the pool. The Hashrate Forward Marketplace of Luxor will back the operations. The Marketplace will provide advanced hedging strategies to mitigate the risk of price volatility. This marks another first-movers advantage for El Salvador, with the country already being the first to make BTC a legal tender in 2021. El Salvador has launched Lava Pool with both firms to integrate Bitcoin into the energy infrastructure. This will enable them to leverage the abundant renewable resources in the country. What could work the most here is the fact that it will generate a lot of revenue for the government of El Salvador. The Central American region of North America, led by Nayib Bukele, will reinvest the profits to work on energy infrastructure. This is expected to boost its economic growth. It is unsure if the entire profit will be reinvested or if a portion will be reinvested. Based on the statement, it is safe to assume that El Salvador intends to reinvest all of its energy infrastructure. It is important to note that Volcano Energy and Luxor are currently driving the force in the country. There is a possibility that other crypto mining platforms may soon join in to offer their services to Nayib Bukele. Assuming that happens, at the current rate of 23%, it will only bring more revenue for the government and more ways to tap into geothermal energy resources. Volcano Energy is coming fresh from raising $1 billion in investments in June this year. $250 million has already been allocated out of that investment to develop Bitcoin mining operations and renewable energy operations. Gerson Martinez, the CSO of Volcano Energy, has underlined the company’s vision. They have said that their vision is to create a vertically integrated energy along with a Bitcoin mining company whose values are deeply linked to investors and the citizens of the country. Ethan Vera, the COO of Luxor, has expressed his excitement about working with Volcano Energy to launch Lava Pools. Ethan has assured that they will provide all possible support to El Salvador and Latin America in a broader sense. Vera said this after highlighting that the ethos of mining centers around geographical decentralization. The development has come at a time when BTC miners are exploring more ways to diversify their revenue streams amid the anticipation of digital asset volatility.

[starstwinkleplanetsshine]

Dear Wormwood

Inspired by the song "Dear Wormwood" by The Oh Hellos, Darth Vader looks back on the last 20 years of his life and the events that led him to becoming Emperor Palpatine's apprentice and wishes he could take it all back. But just when all hope seemed lost, when Vader accepted he was doomed to live a shell of a man, every day filled with pain and regret, a glimmer of hope and Light appears to him in the form of his son, Luke Skywalker.

Luke believes there is still good in Vader, and deep down, he knows his son is right. But is it enough to make things right, or is the Light buried under too much darkness?

Read on AO3

“When I was a child

I didn't hear a single word you said

The things I was afraid of

They were all confined beneath my bed”

Vader awoke from his agonizing nightmare with a start, the same way he greeted every new day. As images of red rivers and blue blades and flowing brunette hair and bouncy lekku and burning suns faded away into the stark grey walls around him, he cursed his sleep for reminding him of a time long gone. In the early years when the weight of his losses still threatened to crush him, when the mere thought of the man who called him brother or the woman who called him husband or the girl who called him master threatened to crumple him into a ball on the floor with a single thought, he never allowed himself to sleep. He survived on hatred and anger alone, letting his suffering be his rest. It was the only way. 

But now, nearly 25 years later, those thoughts brought only a sharp sting. Vader didn’t know if he was becoming numb to the pain or if he wasn’t as affected by it anymore, and he didn’t know which answer frightened him more. And now, nearly two decades later, events had taken place that caused all those old feelings to rise to the surface, all the memories of his life before which he had forced into the darkness were being dragged out to the light, and they were too blinding. 

The first crack had appeared three years ago when he stared into the eyes of a man he thought was a ghost. The moment when the blade of his saber struck his old master for the last time, Vader felt a shattering deep within him, inside a dark and dusty corner of his heart that he hadn’t felt in decades. He felt a thin and decaying string, once golden and shining, finally snap. Vader didn’t even know his bond with Obi-Wan was still there until he felt it break forever. 

The next crack appeared one year ago when Vader had learned of the survival of his son. Being a father was a dream that died alongside the Republic, alongside Padme, alongside Anakin. Just another loss to add to the growing list. Learning that that was not true, that the child born of the only woman he had ever loved was living, breathing, moving with The Force, had awoken something deep within Vader that he thought would stay dormant forever. But Vader could only remember his son in times of absolute strength, for thoughts of Luke always led him back to his mother, and those thoughts led him back to the time when his days were filled with laughter and golden sunlight. A time of blue eyes, not yellow, of smooth skin and golden-honey hair, not black metal and machinery, a time where the world was shades of blues and greens and purples and golds, not red. 

A time of Padme Amidala. Ahsoka Tano. A time of Anakin Skywalker. Obi-Wan Kenobi. Names that all died with the Republic. 

Obi-Wan. 

Now that was a name that caused fire to burn inside Vader, a fire full of passion and hatred and love and regret. They say the line between love and hate is thin, that those two emotions were closer than any other, and since that day on Mustafar all those years ago, Vader knew why. He couldn’t think of the man he once called master without being filled with bitterness and regret, for his betrayal stung so because his love for him once ran so deep. Obi-Wan was the one person the man who had once been Anakin loved the most, trusted the most, the one who could always calm the storm swirling within him, the only one who could contain it when it threatened to erupt and destroy everything good and light. 

Now he was the man who Vader hated with every ounce of metal keeping him alive. 

He thought finally killing Obi-Wan would also kill the ache within him, the pain he blamed on his old master. But it turns out it was never Obi-Wan who caused the pain, it had truly been Vader all along. For twenty years after that dark night on Mustafar, the image of Obi-Wan that was frozen in Vader’s memory was the one who cut off all his limbs and left him for dead, burning and gasping for air beside an unforgiving torrent of fire. But ever since he had struck the fatal blow, his revenge upon Obi-Wan that Vader had dreamed about for nearly two decades, that was no longer the image he associated with Obi-Wan Kenobi. 

For the past few years, the thought of his old master brought back images of warm smiles and reassuring shoulder pats. It brought back fondness and memories of fighting alongside him during the Clone Wars, even memories from before that when Anakin was still a child. Their first sparring match. Sitting across from his old master meditating. The nights Obi-Wan would stay up late helping Anakin with his Temple assignments. All those nights Anakin sheepishly walked into Obi-Wan’s room after a particularly bad dream, his eyes still wet with tears. Remembering how he would let Anakin curl up next to him under his pillow and sing ancient lullabies to him until his breathing steadied and his heart slowed enough for him to finally drift back to sleep.

Only in his moments of strength could Vader remember the words Obi-Wan spoke to Anakin all those years ago, when his old master would remind him he no longer had anything to fear, that no matter what dangers or trials the young boy faced, he would always be by his side, guiding him and protecting him. 

Obi-Wan promised that he would always be there. 

But deep down, Anakin could never truly believe him. 

-----

“But the years have been long

And you have taught me well to hide away

The things that I believed in

You've taught me to call them all escapes”

One year since Vader found out his child survived. Four years since Vader struck down the man he labeled his greatest enemy. 23 years since Anakin Skywalker died on Mustafar. 24 years since Anakin failed his padawan and she walked away from him. 26 years since Anakin lost his mother on Tatooine. 36 years since Anakin first entered the Jedi Temple. 

If only Vader could go back and tell that little boy of nine years old all that was in store for him in the years ahead. All the fear and pain and heartbreak and suffering. But also the joy and laughter and bliss and growth. 

If only he could tell him that it would all be worth it, that he could survive the pain without using the help of the Darkside. That he could trust the people who loved him, who truly cared for him, and that being a Jedi was the greatest gift he had ever been given. 

If only he could say that that was true. 

But time didn’t work like that. 

Vader sat alone in his silent chambers on the very planet where the only thing more red than the lava flows beneath him was the glowing of his lightsaber and the hatred deep in his soul. He thought back on all the years, on all the moments that led him to becoming the empty shell of a man he was, and he wondered just where he went wrong. Looking back, he could see it all so clearly, his mistakes like a map leading him straight to the dark. He often wondered where it all started--if he had never left Tatooine would it still be like this? Was it his selfish choice of love over duty, or maybe it was his first violent outburst of revenge against the Tusken Raiders who murdered his mother? Or was it every soul he couldn't save during the Clone War? Or perhaps the way he failed his padawan and lost trust of the council forever? Or could it have been his outrage at not being granted the rank of Master? 

Or was he doomed to darkness from the moment he was born under the harsh cruelty of the Twin Suns? 

Vader tried to keep himself occupied with anything, everything--military strategies, saber techniques, even tinkering with droids--just as long as his mind was busy so he didn’t run the risk of remembering. He couldn’t let himself dwell on those thoughts for more than moments, for if he did, his strength threatened to fail him. 

No. 

He had to remember the way Obi-Wan failed him. The way Padme betrayed him. The way Ahsoka abandoned him. The fact that Anakin Skywalker was too weak. For if he remembered the truth, then he could never actually live with himself. 

-----

“I know who you are now

I know who you are

I know who you are now”

Vader could feel the shifting tides of the Force like a riptide surrounding him. Ever since he had learned that the young rebel who blew up 20 years of strenuous work with a single shot was his son, Vader hadn’t known peace. 

If he was truly honest with himself, though, Vader had never known peace. But the man Vader once was did, and its name was Obi-Wan Kenobi. Padme Amidala. Rex. Ahsoka Tano. 

He slowly walked to the large window in the side of his ship and gazed down to the Forest Moon below. His son was down there, he could feel his presence in the Force like a beacon of light in a dark tempest, guiding him to safety. 

Maybe, just maybe, could it be possible for Vader to know peace once again? 

No. 

Any hope of that was long gone. 

But perhaps…

Vader closed his eyes and opened himself up to the tides of the Force, just as his old master had taught him to do. For the first time in a long time he didn’t try to control it or channel it through his anger, pain, or passion, he simply let go and let the Force show him what she wanted him to see. He wasn’t surprised when the face of a man with sky-blue eyes and a kind, bearded smile swirled around his memory. 

For the last four years, the face of Obi-Wan had followed him like a shadow he could never run from. At first it only fueled his anger, but now it piqued Vader’s curiosity. Why now, years after his death, years after he killed him, did the face of his old master continue to haunt him? He was beginning to wonder if it was for a purpose, if maybe The Force was trying to tell him something, something he was refusing to hear. 

The Force used to sing to him, back when he was called Anakin, and she would wrap herself around him in golden light and carry him along her gentle current. 

But it had been years since he had unplugged his ears and let himself listen to her song, and Vader wondered if she could still sing. 

He also wondered if this feeling that he felt when he thought of Luke, the ache in his heart he felt when he gazed upon his son, if maybe that was the same feeling that Obi-Wan once felt when he looked upon him. He remembered a time long ago when he felt something similar when looking at a young Togruta with the kindest eyes and an even kinder heart. 

Vader thought he could almost name the feeling. 

Obi-Wan once said he had loved Anakin, and now Vader could admit that that must've been true. 

And Anakin knew he had once loved him too. 

-----

“There before the threshold

I saw a brighter world beyond myself

And in my hour of weakness”

You were there to see my courage fail”

All Anakin ever wanted was to protect the ones he loved. He believed in the hope of a world where he could keep pain away from all those he called his own, a world where everything was right and just and beautiful and safe, all because he had made it so. He was raised to stand up for those who couldn't, to use his gifts and power to help others, both by his mother and his master. He always knew he was special, but he never wanted to be great for his own sake. No, everything Anakin ever did was motivated by those he loved, and he just wanted to create a better, brighter world for the galaxy. 

Everything he did, he did for others. 

Or so he thought he did. 

He thought that by becoming a Jedi he would be able to spread goodness and light, justice and peace to the galaxy. So where did it all go so wrong? 

Looking back on it all now, Vader could see how blind he was. How blinded by fear and possessiveness, obsession and the inability to let go. Like a child who loves an injured bird too much and squeezes it between its fist, never realizing that it was its desire to help and protect that ultimately ended up killing it. He called it the need to protect the one he loved, but now he could name it for what it was: selfishness. And it was that selfishness that brought his whole world crumbling down around him. All that was left in the wake of that dark night on Mustafar were shattered dreams and dashed hopes crashing around the one who used to be Anakin like forsaken ashes, his old life going up in smoke along with the Jedi temple. 

And who was there to watch him burn it all to the ground but the one man he never wanted to let down. The one man he had striven to please since he was a small boy of nine, the one man who he had loved like a father, a brother, a best friend. 

Obi-Wan had sworn to always be by Anakin’s side, so it was only fitting that he would be there to witness his worst mistake. 

Anakin never wanted to fail anyone, especially Obi-Wan. 

And in the end, he failed everyone. 

You're breaking my heart…

You were my brother…

I won't leave you, not this time… 

Vader still couldn’t think of all that he lost without hearing the echoes of his past.

----- 

“For the years have been long

And you have taught me well to sit and wait

Planning without acting

Steadily becoming what I hate”

Vader could remember a time long ago when he confided in a man he thought of as a grandfather, a man who he trusted, who told him he could trust him. He couldn’t see it then, the years of careful manipulation and meticulous planning that Palpatine went through to gain Anakin’s trust. Like a serpent whispering in Anakin’s ears telling him he had to keep secrets from those who truly loved him, making the boy believe he was the only one who would understand. Feeding him the lie that if he ever truly opened up, everyone would hate what they saw. If he shared his fears with Obi-Wan he would be kicked out of the order and sent straight back to Tatooine, back into the chains to which he was born. 

So he kept it all inside. 

And he told his feelings to only one man, the one man who only ever saw him as a pawn, a means to an end. 

But by the time he saw the truth, it was too late. 

It wasn’t until Anakin was gone and Vader was clad in metal and machine, and he felt the first of many lightning bolts that Palpatine used to keep him in line. It wasn’t until he tried to speak of his fears, his losses, his hurt, to the now-Emperor only to receive nothing but punishment in return that he realized it was never real. 

So he retreated even further into himself, for now he was truly alone. 

He looked back in regret on all the years he thought he had no one to turn to, able to see now that that couldn't have been farther from the truth. How had he let himself feel so alone in the days where he was surrounded by those who loved and cared for him, immersed in a community of family bonded by The Force? 

It almost made him laugh to think of how wrong he was. 

For in Anakin’s emptiest moments he still had more than Vader ever would at his fullest. 

Vader stood in front of the Emperor, the man he had called master for the last 20 years but who never truly deserved the title, with his shields high and impenetrable. He couldn’t let Palpatine see the turmoil within him, and over the years Vader had gotten skilled at hiding his true feelings, even from himself at times. But especially now as his master told him of how he would have to either turn his son to the dark or destroy him, he was thankful that his thoughts were only his own. 

The path of the darkside or destruction. 

‘Those are the same thing’ Vader thought to himself. ‘And I will not see my son fall down the same path that I did.’

Vader stared forward, and the smallest part within him was grateful for the mask that hid his features from the prying eyes of Emperor Palpatine. For years Vader had suffered under his hand, doing his will without complaint or hesitation because he had nowhere else to turn. In his greatest moment of weakness he had burned everything good he had ever loved, and so there was nothing left to do but turn away from the light of the flames and follow the dark. It's what he deserved--torment and pain and suffering. 

But now there was the smallest glimmer of light, and it was burning inside Vader once again. Inside the shell which used to be as black as a bottomless cave there was now a long-forgotten ember, lit by the boy called Luke. Luke Skywalker. 

Skywalker. 

But even with the light beginning to glow within him, Vader knew it was too late for him. He was already doomed, and the man he once was had been destroyed. 

Palapatine had made sure of that. 

-----

“I know who you are now

I know who you are

I know who you are now”

Palpatine. 

How many years had Vader spent blaming Obi-Wan, blaming Anakin, blaming the Jedi, the council, the Republic, the war, anything but the one man who’s fault it truly was. 

And why had it taken so long for him to see the truth? 

Why was it not until Vader came face to face with his son, face to face with goodness and light and hope for the first time in decades, that he was able to see his master for who he truly was?

-----

“I have always known you

You have always been there in my mind

But now I understand you

And I will not be part of your designs”

For years Vader played his part, doing his master's terrible bidding without hesitation. Denying the parts of himself that refused to die, the soft spots in his crystalized heart which he could never turn completely to stone. In the beginning he had told himself that he was doing the right thing, that the Jedi were traitors and the reason the Republic fell. That the Empire would bring peace and security to the galaxy, that he was ushering in a new age of prosperity for all. That The Emperor saw things clearly and that he wanted the best for him and the people in the Empire. But eventually he could not be blind to those lies, so he traded his optimism for apathy, following orders out of a sense of duty and the feeling that he was in too deep to get out now. 

When Vader, no, Anakin, was a boy he had been a slave. His life was not his own, everything he did was controlled by another. When he ate, when he worked, when he played, when he slept. He could be beaten or even killed in an instant for something as insignificant as his master's poor temper. It was an exhausting existence, one without peace or rest. 

But he was given a new life when he was nine years old. For the first time in his life, Anakin was given freedom. But even then, even from his first moments of true happiness and liberation, Palpatine was there whispering lies in his ear. 

“You’re still calling someone master” he would hiss. 

“No, it's different. I’m a Jedi now. It’s an honor to call Obi-Wan master.” Anakin would counter, believing every word. 

“You're still being told when to eat, when to work, when to play, when to sleep.” Palpatine’s manipulations started from a very young age. 

“No, it’s different. I made a choice to be a Jedi, I’m not being forced to do anything.” Anakin’s new life as a Jedi was nothing like being a slave on Tatooine.

 Right? 

“But was it your choice? Is this really the life you want? I only want you to be happy, my boy.” 

Anakin never knew how to respond to that. 

Slowly, steadily, over time, Anakin began to wonder if there was truth to the venom Palpatine had been injecting into his brain. Maybe he was still a slave. A slave to duty. A slave to the Republic. A slave to the Jedi. 

Anakin never wanted to be a slave again. 

So he swore to put an end to it. To get out. To be free and the only one in control of his life. But the only thing he succeeded in doing was in tightening his chains, wrapping himself with ropes of metal and locking himself in a prison of hate. 

For Vader could now look back and see what he could not see then, that he was never a slave as a Jedi.

But he was one now. 

And now his master was requiring of him an impossible task, to hand over his son to endure the same fate he did. To doom Luke to serve the same dark master and force hatred and passion and anger to consume his soul and corrupt him into something unrecognizable, twisting him into a monster. 

Vader hadn’t failed his master in years, but he had a choice to make now. Should he continue to be faithful to a man who took everything from him, to an Empire that only left death and destruction in its wake? Or would he finally put an end to it all, finally turn back towards the light that used to be his home? 

Vader had been a mere pawn to Palpatine for as long as he could remember. 

A slave. 

He vowed when he left Tatooine he would never be a slave again. 

-----

“I know who I am now

And all that you've made of me

I know who you are now

And I name you my enemy”

Vader’s heart was a whirlwind of conflict as he stood in front of his son and his master. As much as he tried to fight it, to push it down, to keep his mind focused solely on the Dark, he couldn’t ignore the call to the Light that plagued him at the mere thought of his son. It was even stronger now as Luke stood before him, like a beacon of hope, and Vader didn’t know how much longer he could fight it. 

He couldn’t bear to listen to the words the Emperor was speaking to his son, the same lies and empty promises that were made to him so many years ago. He only hoped that, unlike himself, Luke was able to see through the falsehoods for what they truly were, and he hoped his son could resist. 

For even now the Dark had such a strong hold on Vader that he was still doing his master’s bidding, fighting his son and trying to turn him. But his mind was at war with itself, and his soul was being torn in two, his loyalty to his Dark master being ripped apart by his love for his son and his old connection to the Light. 

His unfocus betrayed him and he soon found himself on the ground at the mercy of his son, bested in combat as he felt anger and darkness swirl around Luke. No, he could not destroy his son, but it was not out of weakness. As he felt the Darkside grow like a rising tide around Luke, Vader’s heart tightened in his chest. He could not bear to see his son fall down the same path as he did, he didn’t want the same pain and torment to follow him and fill his days with nothing but agony and regret. And as he lay with Luke looming over him, hearing The Emperor urge Luke to finish him off, to take his place at his side, to join the darkness and rule the galaxy with fear and terror, Vader, for the first time in over two decades, could finally see it all for what it was. 

For now he knew. 

Vader wasn't born of Anakin, buried deep within the boy just waiting for the right moment to emerge. 

He was made. 

Forged by Palpatine and molded out of the hatred and desperation the Emperor had instilled in the boy, carefully crafted over years of subtlety. 

It had taken decades, but Vader finally saw through the lies. 

In an instant Vader had the Emperor in his hands lifted high above his head. He could feel the Force lightning coursing through his suit, singeing whatever flesh was left of him, overheating circuits and frying power couplings. He knew that this would be the last act he ever did, and yet Anakin felt a peace flow through him that was more powerful than the electricity. 

For the first time in a long time, Anakin was finally doing something right. 

-----

“I know who I am now

I know who I want to be…”

For years Vader had wanted nothing more than to turn back the hands of time and take it all back, take back every mistake he ever made that led to the destruction of everything he ever loved and held close. He wished through strangled sobs that he could hold his wife again, that he could see the smile of his old master with his shining blue eyes, hear the banter of his young padawan who always made him so proud. What he wouldn't do to feel the sunlight upon his skin as he strolled through the gardens of the Jedi temple, listening to the sounds of murmured conversations and ringing laughter as the Force flowed through him like a gentle river, carrying with it peace and love and Light. For twenty years he had cursed himself for his selfishness and greed, for his destruction of anything good and pure in the galaxy. If he could take it all back, he would. In an instant. Without hesitation. Even if it meant losing his life, he would give anything to go back to how it was, before the dark times, before the Empire. 

But he never could, he told himself it was impossible. 

But now, looking at his son, now he saw there was a way. 

He couldn’t turn back time, but he could make a better future, for his son had been right. There was still goodness in him, and Anakin was done leaving it in the darkness.

It was time to return to the light. 

For he finally understood. 

All of the mistakes he ever made he made because he couldn’t let go. He couldn’t let go of his fear of losing those he loved, he couldn’t let go of his pain, his grief, his losses, his doubts. He couldn’t let go of his need to control. And so this refusal of peace had led him to darkness, down a path where everything was gripped firmly in his hands, even if it burnt or cut him. 

But he had finally learned to let go, and in doing so, he could finally make things right. 

Luke saved Anakin, so it was only fair that he saved his son in return. 

Anakin could feel the Second Death Star rumbling around him and he fought the call of unconsciousness as his son dragged him towards a ship, but he knew what Luke did not, that it was too late for him.

No, not too late. It was just in time.

  “Help me take this mask off” Anakin struggled to speak as his life support began to fail.

“But you’ll die.” Luke was still holding onto hope. 

“Nothing can stop that now,” Anakin had accepted his fate, the death that seemed long overdue. “Just for once, let me look on you with my own eyes.” Vader was dead, he fell to his destruction alongside Emperor Palpatine, and that mask belonged to him. But those eyes, those blue eyes who longed to gaze at his son's face for the last time, those were Anakin’s. 

As the Force began to swirl around him, gently singing her ancient lullabies, songs Anakin used to hear but had been deaf to for so long now, he needed to say one final thing to his son, the one who saved him, who reminded him of who he truly was. 

“You were right. Tell your sister…” 

How Anakin wished he could look upon her in this moment, too. He regretted all the time he lost, he hated that his only times with his daughter were moments when he was hunting her, hurting her, causing her to fear and hate him. He thought of her resilience, her strength, her determination, her beauty. Her commitment to justice and goodness in the face of tyranny, how she never backed down from a fight. He remembered how she could command a room, how she knew her worth and she never let anyone diminish it. He thought of her love for her family, her people, her planet, and her love of the light, and he was so proud of her. In his daughter's eyes he saw Padme Amidala, and he stole a smile thinking of how Leia was continuing her mother’s legacy, whether she knew it or not. He could only hope that she would listen to Luke and maybe, just maybe, be able to forgive him enough, even though he knew he didn’t deserve it. 

“...you were right.” 

The world around him grew darker now, the Force moving in closer and transitioning his spirit from this world to the next. He looked into his son’s eyes one final time, seeing nothing but goodness and light, and he breathed his last, letting go and releasing himself into the larger will of the Force. 

And as he went, he felt only peace. 

Darkness gave way to light, and as he opened his eyes in a new plane of existence, he was greeted by a face that he would recognize anywhere, regardless of the effects of age and two harsh suns beating down upon it. 

“Hello there, my old Padawan.” 

And without a moment of hesitation, eyes brimming with tears, Anakin Skywalker fell into the open arms of Obi-Wan Kenobi. 

“...I want to be more than

This devil inside of me.”