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[infomen]

Enterprise-Grade Datacenter Network Solutions by Esconet

Esconet Technologies offers cutting-edge datacenter network solutions tailored for enterprises, HPC, and cloud environments. With support for high-speed Ethernet (10G to 400G), Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Infiniband, and Fibre‑Channel technologies, Esconet ensures reliable, scalable, and high-performance connectivity. Their solutions are ideal for low-latency, high-bandwidth applications and are backed by trusted OEM partnerships with Cisco, Dell, and HPE. Perfect for businesses looking to modernize and secure their datacenter infrastructure. for more details visit: Esconet Datacenter Network Page

[jcmarchi]

NETGEAR Showcases Enterprise-Class M4350 Series AV Switches at IBC 202 - Videoguys

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/netgear-showcases-enterprise-class-m4350-series-av-switches-at-ibc-202-videoguys/

NETGEAR Showcases Enterprise-Class M4350 Series AV Switches at IBC 202 - Videoguys

At the IBC 2024 Show in Amsterdam, NETGEAR unveiled its Enterprise-Class M4350 Series AV Switches, specifically designed to meet the demands of AV over IP (AVoIP) networks. These advanced AV switches are ideal for businesses seeking reliable, high-performance solutions for their audio, video, and lighting setups. The M4350 series stands out for its enterprise-class hardware, redundant power supplies, and support for 100G uplinks, ensuring top-tier performance for AVoIP applications.

One of the key highlights of the M4350 switches is the NETGEAR AV user interface and the Engage Controller, both equipped with pre-configured profiles to support major audio, video, and lighting protocols. The switches also feature IGMP Plus™ with Auto-LAG and Auto-Trunk, offering seamless multicast installation. Additional features like advanced IPv4/IPv6 security, intelligent thermal and acoustic controls, and PoE+ and Ultra90 PoE++ support for up to 90W per device make these switches a versatile choice for a wide range of AV installations.

With over 200 switching products in its portfolio, NETGEAR offers flexible options for AV over IP solutions, supporting speeds from 1Gbps to 100Gbps per port. This extensive product line can also power PoE cameras and security devices, providing a scalable and customizable network setup. NETGEAR’s switches can be tailored to meet specific customer needs, with room for future expansion, ensuring businesses can grow their AV infrastructure without limitations.

As video over Ethernet continues to rise in popularity, NETGEAR’s M4350 series meets the growing demand with products designed for ProAV installations. Whether you need modular switches for copper, fiber, or HDMI inputs, or a solution that fits a specific budget, NETGEAR has the expertise to guide businesses toward the perfect AV solution. These AVoIP switches offer flexible mounting options and can be deployed in a variety of environments, from university campuses to live event productions.

For businesses looking to upgrade their AV infrastructure, NETGEAR’s M4350 Series offers the perfect combination of performance, flexibility, and scalability to meet the evolving demands of AV over IP networks.

Read the full article from ProductionHub HERE

Learn more about NETGEAR below:

[keehomania]

business proposal (제안서) — kim seokjin (김석진)

✧.* 18+

a closer look reveals the hidden multitude of narcissists roaming freely across the earth. they moved through life as ordinary figures—doctors, lawyers—sharing the same vulnerability of human blood. yet, there lingered a belief in their superiority, an unspoken arrogance. among them, businessmen appeared to embody that conceit most profoundly.

kim enterprises had the value of 1.5 billion won. a leading technology firm specializing in cutting-edge ai solutions and smart home devices. founded on the principles of advancing human-technology synergy, the company designs state-of-the-art gadgets that seamlessly integrate with daily life. under the visionary leadership of kim seokjin, the president’s son, the company has gained a reputation for pushing boundaries and setting new industry standards. currently, it lies at the forefront of revolutionizing smart technology, with a diverse portfolio ranging from intelligent automation systems to next-generation personal assistants.

impressive, really. it'd have been much more impressive if he was as likeable as his company. he was a narcissist in the purest form, no matter how much he cared for the company and his employees. only because no care would amount to the kind he put into himself.

the company had been running smoothly under his care for nine years, as his father had fallen ill and was unable to sustain it on his own. he knew he was making the right decision when he deemed seokjin the next heir, the next in control. he was smart, charming, persuasive. he knew every corner and end of a business deal, how to tie the knots and when to cut off loose ends.

“kim, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person. i must say, kim enterprises has been on our radar for quite some time.” seokjin shook his hand firmly, returning the smile. “the pleasure is mine, james. i've been following your company’s progress closely as well. it’s impressive how you’ve carved out a niche in ai development.”

james’s eyes lit up. “thank you. we’re particularly interested in your smart home integration systems. from what i understand, your latest model has seen a significant uptick in market share.” seokjin’s smile widened, “yes, our quantum series has been a game-changer. we’ve seen a 30% increase in market penetration over the past year. the integration of adaptive ai has really resonated with consumers, allowing for a more intuitive user experience.”

james nodded, clearly pleased. “exactly. that’s why we’re keen on a partnership. our research indicates that your technology complements our upcoming product line perfectly. what terms are you envisioning for this deal?” seokjin considered the question thoughtfully. “given the scope of the integration and the potential for cross-promotion, i’d suggest a revenue-sharing model. we propose a 60-40 split in favor of kim enterprises for the first two years. this would allow us to leverage your distribution network while providing you with a substantial stake in the revenue generated.”

james raised an eyebrow, thoughtful. “that’s a fair proposition. but considering the development and marketing costs, how about adjusting the split to 50-50 initially, with a performance-based adjustment thereafter?” seokjin weighed the offer, then nodded. “i see your point. let’s compromise at 55-45, with a performance review after the first year to reassess the terms. we can draft a detailed agreement to reflect this.”

james’s expression softened into one of admiration. “agreed. your understanding of both the technology and market dynamics is impressive, kim. it’s clear you’ve put a lot of thought into this.”

seokjin’s eyes sparkled with resolve. “thank you, james. i believe in building partnerships that are beneficial for both sides. our goal is not just to expand our market presence but to also deliver exceptional value through innovative collaborations.” james raised his glass with a smile. “well said. i look forward to working with you. let’s toast to a successful partnership.”

he truly was a natural, he knew exactly what to say and how to say it. however, even if he was reluctant to admit it, he couldn't have done it on his own.

you navigated the room with a calm, poised demeanor, your sharp eyes scanning for any potential issues or tasks that needed attention. you approached seokjin with a subtle nod, a tablet in hand. he acknowledged the gesture, his eyes flickering with appreciation. “i’ve just received the finalized draft of the agreement,” you said quietly, sliding the tablet over to him. “i made sure to include the revised revenue split and the performance review clause you discussed with james.”

he glanced at the document, his expression approving. “perfect timing. you’ve captured all the necessary details. thanks for handling this so efficiently.” james, intrigued, looked at you. “i must say, it’s clear that you play a crucial role in ensuring everything runs smoothly. your attention to detail must be invaluable.”

you smiled modestly. “thank you, james. it’s my job to make sure that the priorities are met and that every aspect of our deal is thoroughly managed. it’s a pleasure to contribute to the success of our partnerships.” as you stepped back, you made a quick call to coordinate a follow-up meeting with the legal team, ensuring that all paperwork would be processed without delay. your presence was a testament to the meticulous planning that underpinned seokjin's success.

although he was the brains behind the operation, you were the one that made sure the operation was in action. you coordinated all of his appointments and travel arrangements, handled all of his phone calls, drafted all of the reports and presentations, organized all of the meetings, supported all of the projects, and so much more. you were good at your job, and you loved it.

it was one of the many reasons why that same night, in the back of seokjin's limo, he had met your words with a look of horror displayed on his face. you remained stoic as you adjusted the hem of your dress, pushing your hair past your shoulder before meeting his gaze once more. “you want to quit?” you nodded in confirmation. the question itself held more shock than intended, but he couldn't help it. your announcement had put a dent in the night. you had been his left hand for exactly nine years and, out of the blue, you had announced that you were ready to leave the company.

the city lights blurred past the windows as you sat in the back of seokjin's sleek, black limousine. the leather seats were soft beneath you, but there was tension in the air that makes you sit a little straighter, hands folded tightly in your lap. seokjin was beside you, scrolling through his phone with a practiced ease, oblivious to the storm brewing in your mind.

“it's personal,” you explained, trying to keep your tone even. “i have some matters in my life that need my full attention right now.” he stared at you, disbelief etched on his features. “after nine years? just like that?”

“i'm sorry,” you said, your heart aching with each word. “but it's something i have to do.” seokjin's jaw tightened, but he nodded curtly. “if that's your decision, i won't stand in your way.” the rest of the ride passed in heavy silence, the atmosphere between you both laden with unspoken words and shared sorrow. you could only gaze at the fleeting cars through the window, oblivious to the hurt etched into what was supposed to be his stoic expression.

that night, he found himself tossing and turning in his grand, empty bed. sleep eluded him, chased away by a persistent nightmare. in it, he saw a woman with long, black hair, her back always turned to him. no matter how much he called out and cried, she never looked back, slipping further away with each step. he woke up in a cold sweat, the image of the woman haunting him. the clock beside his bed read that it was only four o'clock. frustrated and unsettled, he spent the rest of the night staring at the ceiling, unable to shake the sense of impending loss.

the following morning, he stood in front of the mirror in his expansive bedroom, the morning light filtering through the curtains. his shirt was buttoned, but his tie lies undone around his neck. he waited, as he always did, for you. when you arrived, your expression was composed, professional. "good morning, vice chairman."

he nodded, his eyes fixed on your reflection in the mirror. “morning, secretary (y/n).” you stepped forward, deftly tying his tie with practiced hands, the sound of your name stinging more than necessary. the proximity, once a simple part of your routine, now felt charged with the weight of your impending departure.

he gazed at himself in the mirror, his ego surfacing as a way to mask his vulnerability. “do you see that? the beauty?” you glanced at the mirror, assuming he meant the sunlight casting a golden glow across the room. “yes, the sunrise is beautiful.” a faint smirk touched his lips. “no, not the sunrise. me. my aura.”

you suppressed a sigh, knowing that it was nothing but the the standard for him. “yes, very dazzling, vice chairman.” satisfied, he turned away from the mirror and straightened his suit jacket. “let's go. we have breakfast at my parents' house.”

the drive to the kim family estate was quiet, the earlier tension replaced by a heavy resignation. seokjin's family home was grand, an imposing structure surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens. inside, you were greeted by his mother, her warm smile a stark contrast to the austere demeanor of the chairman. “good morning, hyeon. (y/n), it's always a pleasure to see you.”

“good morning, mother,” seokjin replied, his tone polite yet distant. the chairman nodded at you both, his presence commanding respect. “let's eat.”

breakfast was a formal affair, the table laden with an array of traditional dishes. conversation was polite, centered around business and family matters. seokjin's parents were unaware of your decision to leave, and you caught seokjin's gaze more than once, a silent understanding passing between you. as the meal progressed, you couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. that world, so intertwined with his, had been your life for nearly a decade. leaving it behind wouldn't be easy.

breakfast ended, and the chairman suggested that he and his son retire to the study room for a private discussion. you followed his mother to the sitting room, where she invited you to join her for tea. she was a gracious host, her demeanor warm and inviting. “how have you been, sweetheart? it feels like forever since we had a proper chat,” she said, pouring tea into delicate porcelain cups.

you smiled, taking the offered cup. “i've been well, mrs. kim. thank you.” her eyes sparkled with curiosity. “tell me, what do you think about my hyeon? he talks about you often.”

you paused, considering your words carefully. you knew she was an older lady, so you didn't question the way she misnamed him. her memory had probably grown shabby. “he's an exceptional leader, very dedicated to his work. it's been an honor to work with him.” she nodded, her smile widening. “yes, he's always been very driven. but tell me, is my son seeing anyone? he never mentions these things to me.”

you shook your head. “despite all the girls around him, he's not dating anyone.” mrs. kim's eyes widened in horror. “he's not— gay, is he?”

you stifled a laugh, shaking your head again. “no, mrs. kim, he's not. he's just very focused on his work.” she sighed in relief, placing a hand over her heart. “thank goodness. it would be wonderful for him to finally get a girlfriend. he's not getting any younger, you know.” you couldn't help but wonder at her words. the idea of him with someone else felt oddly unsettling.

in the study room, seokjin's father, chairman kim, sat behind an imposing oak desk, his expression stern. “i heard a rumor, seokjin. (y/n) is quitting?” his jaw tightened, but he met his father's gaze steadily. “it's true. but i won't let it happen.”

chairman kim raised an eyebrow. “and how do you plan to stop it?” seokjin's voice was firm. “i'll find a way to convince her to stay. she's indispensable to me.”

a moment of silence passed before chairman kim's lips twitched into a faint smile. “are you dating her?” seokjin blinked, momentarily taken aback. “no, father, i'm not.”

the chairman feigned a dramatic gasp, clutching his chest. “oh, i feel faint. my son, the great seokjin, not dating his perfect secretary.” he rolled his eyes, a rare display of exasperation. “i've seen your medical records, father. you're perfectly healthy.”

chairman kim waved a dismissive hand. “you should do your father a favor and find a wife, give us grandchildren. it's time you settled down.” seokjin sighed, the weight of his father's words lingering. he had never been in a relationship, and neither had you. it was one of the reasons you knew you had to quit. your life revolved around your work, as did his. only, you weren't satisfied with that. it wasn't that he wasn't attracted to anybody, because he was, but nothing mattered more than his craft. he felt off about women touching him, in any case. it made him anxious, and brought up memories he fought to keep hidden.

you and seokjin departed for the office, the morning sun casting long shadows across the driveway as the car pulled away from the estate. the ride was initially silent, both of you lost in thought. he finally broke the silence, “what exactly did you mean by personal matters?” his tone was careful, almost hesitant.

you turned to him, offering a small smile. “i'm looking to settle down, vice chairman. i want to get married, have children.” he fell silent, the weight of your words settling over him. the rest of the ride to the office was steeped in an unusual quiet, your declaration hanging in the air like a specter.

upon arriving at the office, he moved through the halls in a daze. his usual commanding presence seemed diminished, his mind clearly elsewhere. he entered his office, finding his younger intern already there. “good morning, vice chairman,” jungkook greeted cheerfully, his youthful energy a contrast to seokjin's subdued demeanor.

he barely acknowledged him, slumping into his chair. jungkook, sensing something was off, leaned forward with a curious smile. “you look like you've seen a ghost. what's up?” seokjin rubbed his temples, sighing. “it's secretary (l/n). she wants to quit.”

jungkook raised an eyebrow. “oh? did you try offering her a promotion, bigger pay, fewer working hours?” he nodded in response. “i did. she dismissed it all. said she wants to settle down, get married, have children.”

jungkook's eyes twinkled with mischief. “and that shocked you?” seokjin glared at him, but his grin remained unshaken. “why does it bother you so much, vice chairman? do you like her more than just a secretary?” the question lingered in the air, met with silence. his mind raced, trying to comprehend why your decision affected him so deeply. he couldn't deny the pang of jealousy at the thought of you with someone else, starting a life that didn't include him.

jungkook leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “maybe it's time to ask yourself why her leaving matters so much to you.” he remained quiet, lost in thought. How could marriage and a family be more important than the bond you shared with him? the realization struck him hard—perhaps it wasn't just about losing an exceptional secretary. maybe, just maybe, it was about losing you.

a knock on the door disrupted the tense silence between the two men. you entered, carrying a tray with a steaming pot of tea and three cookies on the side, exactly how seokjin liked it. the aroma of the tea briefly lightened the atmosphere. he looked up, his expression softening momentarily at the sight of you. “thank you, secretary (l/n).”

you placed the tray on the table, pouring a cup of tea for him and setting it in on his desk. “i've sent out emails looking for a future secretary. one of the primary candidates is on her way.” jungkook observed the way his face twisted with hurt at your words. despite the pain evident in his eyes, seokjin maintained his composure. “join us while we wait for her.”

you nodded, taking a seat beside the young intern. the room fell into an uncomfortable silence, broken only by the ticking of the clock. seokjin sipped his tea, the familiar taste doing little to ease his troubled mind.

a few minutes later, the door opened, and a young woman entered. she had a bright, cheerful demeanor, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “hello, i'm jung keulgi. it's an honor to be here.” seokjin straightened, adopting his usual authoritative posture. “miss jung, are you ready to devote yourself to a perfect company?” she beamed. “absolutely! i'm very excited for this opportunity.”

you couldn't help but roll your eyes at the narcissistic question. “are you prepared to handle working for someone with an ego as big as the company?” keulgi sensed the underlying tension but maintained her cheerful facade. “i'm sure i'll manage.”

seokjin continued, his tone growing sharper. “will you stay devoted instead of quitting due to silly things like personal matters?” the tension in the room escalated. you snapped, unable to hold back any longer. “are you done, vice chairman?”

his eyes flashed with anger. “about as done as you are, secretary (l/n).” keulgi, clearly uncomfortable but trying to stay positive, interjected softly, “if you hire me, i'll do my best.”

seokjin didn't take his eyes off you as he replied, “you're hired.” as he turned to you, his voice was cold and demanding. “you have a month to turn her into your carbon copy. after that, do as you please.” the room fell silent once more as the weight of his words settled over you. keulgi glanced between you and him, her cheerful demeanor now tinged with apprehension.

he stood, signaling the end of the meeting. “that will be all for now. welcome to kim enterprises, miss jung.” she nodded, offering a hesitant smile. “thank you, vice chairman.”

as she left the room, you remained seated, the gravity of your situation sinking in. seokjin's harsh command echoed in your mind, a painful reminder of the rift that had formed between you. jungkook, sensing the need for a distraction, cleared his throat. “well, this is going to be interesting.”

seokjin shot him a glare. “you're dismissed, jungkook.” with a playful salute, he left the room, leaving you and him alone once more. the silence was heavy, filled with the unspoken emotions and unresolved tension. he finally broke the silence, his voice softer but still edged with hurt. “you can have the rest of the day off.”

you glanced up at him in disbelief, but you weren't willing to argue any further. all you could do was nod and bow before leaving the room. he was alone, once more. he couldn't do anything but watch as you left, gulping as if to hold himself back from calling out your name. you could train all the candidates in the world, yet it would never be the same.

you stood at your kitchen sink, washing the last of the dinner dishes as the sun set, casting a warm orange glow through the window. the evening was peaceful, the kind of tranquility you had been craving. as you dried your hands and prepared to head to bed, the sudden blare of a car horn startled you. peeking out the window, you saw seokjin standing next to his sleek black car, looking up at your house.

heart pounding with a mix of surprise and curiosity, you hurried outside. “vice chairman? is everything okay?” he shook his head, a slight smile playing on his lips. “no emergencies, secretary (l/n). i just needed to see you.” you frowned, puzzled. “at this hour? what's so urgent?”

his eyes locked onto yours, intense and searching. “are you serious about quitting to settle down?” you nodded, feeling a familiar pang of sadness. “i am. i'm ready to put all my attention on a relationship.”

his expression shifted, the gravity of your words sinking in. he took a deep breath, and then, to your astonishment, he did the unthinkable. he dropped to one knee and pulled out a small velvet box, opening it to reveal a dazzling diamond ring.

“marry me, secretary (l/n). i'm rich, handsome, and more than capable of giving you everything you want.” you stared at him, completely taken aback. his usual confidence seemed both reassuring and out of place in this moment. he continued, his voice earnest, almost pleading. “i'm perfect for you. accept my proposal.”

his words hung in the air as you tried to process what was happening. finally, you leaned in close, your face inches from his, and inhaled deeply. seokjin's heart stopped, anticipation flickering in his eyes. but instead of a kiss, you pulled back, your expression skeptical.

“are you drunk, vice chairman?” he blinked, clearly taken aback. “no, i'm sober. i'm serious.”

you laughed softly, shaking your head. “i believe you. but vice chairman, i don't want a perfect life with a perfect man. i just want to be with an ordinary guy from an ordinary family.” his face fell, his confident facade crumbling. “why not me? i'm perfect!”

you smiled, despite the annoyance of his narcissistic words clawing at your nerves, and you chose the easy way out. assuring him that he was nothing but flawless was the only way to get him to stop talking about it. “that's exactly why. you deserve someone who sees you that way, but it's not me.” the rejection hung heavy between you as you turned and walked back into your house, leaving him kneeling in the fading light.

the following day, he recounted the entire incident to jungkook, who listened with wide eyes. when he finally finished, the intern burst into laughter, unable to contain himself despite the glares from his boss.

“vice chairman, you can't just propose out of the blue like that, this isn't the eighteenth century,” jungkook said, wiping tears of laughter from his eyes.

his frown deepened, but he couldn't argue with jungkook's logic. “so, what should i have done, then?” he shrugged, still grinning. “maybe start by asking her on a date? get to know her outside of work. build a relationship first. you can't skip straight to marriage, no matter how perfect you think you are.”

the elder mulled over his words, realizing the truth in them. he had acted impulsively, driven by a fear of losing you, but dating? he was actively unfamiliar with the entire thing. in fact, he thought it was pointless. nothing but a waste of time, but if it meant stopping you from quitting, maybe it was wasting time in the best way possible.

you sat in your office, typing away at your computer, but your mind kept drifting back to the previous night. the image of your boss on one knee, his earnest proposal, and your subsequent rejection played on a loop in your head. the weight of your decision and its implications loomed large.

“hey, (y/n),” a familiar voice broke through your thoughts. you looked up to see kim namjoon, the head of finances, standing at your desk. his expression was a mix of concern and curiosity. “is it true? are you really leaving?” you offered him a kind smile and nodded. “yes, namjoon. it's true.”

the news seemed to ripple through the office. baekhyun and sooyoung, who were nearby, immediately voiced their protests. “you can't be serious!” baekhyun exclaimed, his usually cheerful demeanor clouded with disappointment. sooyoung nodded vigorously. “yeah, you've been here forever! what are we going to do without you?”

keulgi, who had been quietly observing, chimed in. “i've heard so much about your amazing work. it's going to be hard to fill your shoes.” you felt a pang of guilt but tried to reassure them with a smile on your face. “we'll all stay in touch. it's not like i'm disappearing.”

sooyoung then brightened, a mischievous glint in her eye. “how about we have a dinner after work? to welcome keulgi and to honor your nine years of hard work.” you hesitated, not wanting to make a big deal out of your departure. but keulgi's encouraging smile swayed you. “come on, it would be nice.” with a reluctant smile, you agreed.

the moment was cut short as the door to the office opened and seokjin walked in. the room fell silent, all eyes turning to him. he let the silence hang for a moment before speaking, his gaze locked onto yours. “am i invited to this dinner as well?” the tension was palpable. baekhyun hesitated before responding, glancing around at the others. “of course, vice chairman. you're welcome to join us.”

seokjin's smile was tight as he nodded. “very well. i'll see you all there.” he left the room as suddenly as he had entered, leaving your heart heavy with unspoken emotions. namjoon broke the silence, his tone light but his words carrying weight. “is it just me, or did it suddenly get cold in here?” the others murmured their agreement, exchanging glances.

“i don't know what's going on,” baekhyun said, shaking his head. “but he's been awfully on edge lately.” you remained silent, the weight of your decision and seokjin's reaction pressing heavily on your mind. the upcoming dinner promised to be an eventful one, but you couldn't shake the feeling that it would also be pivotal in the worst way possible.

you stood in front of your mirror, giving yourself a once-over. you had opted for a casual outfit, perfect for the laid-back atmosphere of the local barbeque spot where your colleagues were hosting your farewell dinner. just as you were adjusting your hair, a loud honk interrupted your thoughts. curiosity piqued, you peered out the window to see none other than seokjin, leaning against his car, looking as out of place in your neighborhood as a peacock in a flock of pigeons.

you opened the window and leaned out. “what are you doing here?” he glanced up, a smirk playing on his lips. “i'm not here to propose again, if that's what you're worried about. i'm here to pick you up.” your eyebrows shot up in surprise, “why?”

“isn't it so ordinary of me to go with my coworkers?” he replied, clearly pleased with himself. you shook your head, amusement dancing in your eyes. “yes, well done, vice chairman. give me a minute.”

you grabbed your bag and headed downstairs. as you stepped outside, you noticed his attire—an expensive suit that screamed high-end fashion. you stifled a laugh, knowing he would stand out like a sore thumb at the spot you had all agreed on. nonetheless, you entertained his gesture and got into the car. the drive was filled with light conversation, mostly about work and the upcoming transition. despite the casual nature of the evening, you could sense his effort to blend in, which you found oddly endearing. when you arrived at the restaurant, the familiar scent of grilled meat and beer wafted through the air, making seokjin's face contort in mild disgust. you chuckled at his reaction. “welcome to the real world, vice chairman.”

inside, your colleagues greeted you warmly, their eyes widening in surprise when they saw their boss. he maintained his composure, though you could see his discomfort. at the table, he attempted to take charge. “what's everyone drinking?” he asked, clearly expecting a sophisticated answer. “perhaps an old variation of whisky?”

a stunned silence fell over the group, everyone staring at him in disbelief. you nervously laughed. “they only serve beer and soju here, vice chairman.” for a moment, you expected him to bristle at the lack of his preferred drink. instead, he stifled a sigh and nodded. “beer it is, then.”

as the evening progressed, you found yourself reminiscing. it had been nine years since you first joined kim enterprises, and you vividly remembered celebrating your first day in this very spot. you were drinking beer when a younger seokjin had approached you, his demeanor confident and slightly arrogant. “do you know who i am?” he'd asked, and you'd honestly had no clue. little did you know back then just how egotistical he was.

now, years later, you watched him attempt to navigate this ordinary setting. as the night wore on, you noticed the subtle signs of him getting tipsy. his cheeks flushed, his laughter louder and more uninhibited. eventually, you decided it was time to call it a night. “i think i should take him home,” you said, standing up.

your colleagues protested, but you promised to make it up to them. they relented, and you guided a slightly unsteady seokjin to his car. the drive to his house was quiet, his head leaning back against the seat, eyes half-closed.

when you arrived, you helped him inside, supporting his weight as you guided him to his bedroom. you gently eased him onto the bed, intending to leave as soon as he was settled. but just as you were about to turn away, he grabbed your wrist, pulling you down onto the bed. you fell on top of him, your faces inches apart. his eyes, though slightly glazed, held a seriousness that made your heart race. “pretty ordinary of me to get drunk off beer, right?” he slurred, a lazy smile on his lips. your breath caught in your throat. “yes, very ordinary.”

“thank you, secretary (l/n),” he mumbled, his eyes closing. he fell asleep almost instantly, his grip on your wrist loosening. you stayed there for a moment, your heart pounding, before carefully tucking him in. you watched him for a few seconds longer, your emotions a whirlwind. finally, you tore yourself away, quietly leaving his house and heading home, your mind a jumble of thoughts and feelings you couldn't quite name.

the following morning, you arrived at the office early, keen to begin the handover process with keulgi. the usual hustle and bustle of the workplace greeted you, but today there was an undercurrent of anticipation and anxiety. it was the beginning of your final month at kim enterprises, and you wanted to ensure everything transitioned smoothly.

as you were explaining the intricacies of the office dynamics to keulgi, seokjin entered, looking visibly worse for wear. he massaged his temples, clearly nursing a headache from the previous night. you couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt. you followed him into his office, where he promptly sank into his chair, wincing slightly.

“good morning, vice chairman,” you greeted, trying to keep your tone professional despite your concern. “morning,” he muttered, barely looking up.

despite your concern, you exited the office, re-joining keulgi in order to show her around. “so, these are the folders you'll need to keep track of—client files, project updates, and financial reports. everything is color-coded for easy access. emails are prioritized into high, medium, and low urgency. make sure to flag anything that needs immediate attention.”

she nodded, absorbing the information. “got it. and what about his schedule?” you handed her a tablet with his meticulously planned itinerary. “his schedule is very tight. make sure to coordinate with all department heads and external partners. he's very particular about his meetings being on time.”

as you continued the walkthrough, keulgi mentioned, “oh, by the way, i noticed one of the legs on his chair was falling apart, so i put it together with some cables.” your eyes widened in shock, “what kind of cables?”

“rubber cables,” she replied, confusion etched on her face at your reaction. your heart sank. without another word, you rushed into seokjin's office, your pulse racing. the sight that greeted you confirmed your worst fears. he was on the floor, shaking, his head in his hands, his entire demeanor shattered.

“vice chairman!” you cried out, rushing to his side. “i'm so sorry, she didn't know—” he didn't respond, his breathing erratic. you quickly reached for the chair and cut off the rubber cables. the moment they were gone, his shaking subsided, though his face remained pale and his expression haunted. keulgi, realizing the gravity of the situation, joined in the apologies, her voice frantic. ”i'm so sorry, vice chairman. i didn't know—“

seokjin's gaze was ice cold as he finally looked up at you, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and something you couldn't quite place. “is this how you're carrying out your duties, secretary (l/n)?” you stood there, stunned and silent. the warmth and camaraderie of the previous night seemed like a distant memory. his words cut through you like a knife, and for the first time, you had no response.

seokjin struggled to his feet, regaining his composure with great effort. “leave,” he commanded quietly, the tension in his voice unmistakable. you and keulgi hurried out of the office, the weight of the incident heavy on your shoulders. outside, you tried to reassure her, but the shock of your boss's reaction lingered.

inside his office, he sat down once again, burying his face in his hands. he mentally cursed himself for his harsh words. his eyes fell on the rubber cables now discarded in the trash can, and a shudder ran through him. memories he'd fought to bury resurfaced, and he struggled to push them back down. the trauma, long kept at bay, clawed its way to the surface. he knew he had overreacted, and he hated himself for it. he had to apologize to you, but the thought of facing you after what had just happened seemed insurmountable. how could he explain the depth of his fear, the reason for his reaction? for now, he could only sit there, the remnants of his vulnerability on display, hoping he hadn't irrevocably damaged the fragile relationship he had with you.

he sat behind his expansive mahogany desk, its polished surface reflecting the ambient light filtering through the large, floor-to-ceiling windows of his office. the cityscape of seoul lay sprawled out behind him, but his attention was far from the view. instead, his eyes were unfocused, staring blankly at the stack of documents in front of him. his mind was elsewhere, fixated on the conversation he'd had with his intern just days ago.

jungkook, seated opposite to him with his laptop open, was discussing the final preparations for the launch of their new art gallery. the young intern's enthusiasm was palpable, his voice animated as he detailed the latest developments, the artists who had confirmed their participation, and the final touches needed for the grand opening. but despite his energetic briefing, seokjin's mind kept wandering back to a single, pivotal point in their earlier exchange.

“you can't just propose out of the blue,” jungkook had laughed, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “you need to take it slow. ask her out on a date first.”

seokjin's usually sharp mind was dulled by the weight of those words. proposing had seemed like a logical solution to him. a clear, decisive action to keep you from leaving. but now, in the wake of jungkook's advice, he realized how absurd it must have seemed. how uncharacteristically rash and desperate. the thought of asking you out on a date, a simple date, felt strangely daunting.

“vice chairman? are you listening?” jungkook's voice cut through his reverie, pulling him back to the present. he blinked, forcing his attention back to his intern. “yes, jungkook. i'm listening. the gallery—” he trailed off, struggling to find the thread of their conversation.

he raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on his lips. “the gallery launch is on track. but you don't seem very interested today. is something on your mind?” he sighed in response, running a hand through his perfectly styled hair. he prided himself on his composed and unflappable demeanor, but today, he felt anything but. “it's nothing. just some personal matters, as some would say.” he couldn't bare to focus on the project at hand. no, in fact, he was ready to execute a project of his own.

the soft hum of conversation and clinking of cutlery filled the air as you and your friends settled into a cozy corner booth at a chic restaurant. the atmosphere was relaxed, with warm lighting and comfortable seating that made it perfect for a catch-up lunch. your girlfriends were animated and full of news, and you found yourself caught between genuine happiness for them and a pang of wistful longing.

one of your friends, jiho, was regaling the table with stories about her recent wedding. her eyes sparkled with joy as she described the ceremony, the heartfelt vows, and the beautiful reception. you smiled and applauded her enthusiasm, but inside, you couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy. the idea of finding such happiness seemed elusive, and your heart ached slightly at the thought.

“you're going to love being married,” jiho said, her voice full of contentment. "it’s just wonderful." you nodded, offering a supportive smile. “i'm so happy for you, jiho. it sounds like it was a perfect day.”

as she continued sharing details, your other friend, minji, leaned in, her eyes twinkling with a mischievous glint. “speaking of perfect days,” she began, “i have something to tell you. my husband’s friend saw your profile on social media and, well, he’s been asking about you.”

your heart skipped a beat. minji's husband had been a close friend of yours for years, but you had no idea who the friend in question was. the idea of someone from his circle showing interest was both flattering and daunting. “what’s he like?” you asked cautiously. minji grinned. “he’s a nice guy, charming and successful. i think you’d get along. how about we set up a blind date?”

you hesitated. the idea of a blind date was daunting, but the prospect of meeting someone new, especially someone vetted by friends, was appealing. you glanced at your friends' eager faces and took a deep breath. “okay, i’ll do it.” minji clapped her hands excitedly. “great! i'll set it up and let you know the details.”

just as the conversation shifted to wedding anecdotes and dating possibilities, a cheerful waitress approached your table with a friendly smile. “excuse me, ladies,” she said. “we’re conducting a survey to improve our service and, in exchange, we’d like to offer you a free appetizer. would you be interested?” your friends, always up for a little extra perk, agreed enthusiastically, and you followed suit. the waitress handed over a clipboard with a short survey and left to fetch the appetizer.

thu looked over the questions with mild curiosity. the first asked, “ideal date spot with your significant other?” the second, “ideal activities with significant other?” and the last, “ideal gift given by significant other?” you answered thoughtfully, trying to balance your idealistic dreams with the reality of your current situation. as you finished filling out the survey and handed it back to the waitress, you felt a slight nagging sense of familiarity with the tone of the questions. they seemed familiarly bosay and demanding, almost like they were trying to gauge your relationship ideals with a hint of urgency. but you brushed off the feeling, focusing instead on the excitement of the impending blind date and the lively conversation with your friends.

in the dimly lit rec room of seokjin's luxurious house, the soft clack of pool balls punctuated the otherwise quiet evening. jungkook lounged on the leather sofa, his gaze fixed on him, who was confidently taking shots at the pool table with practiced ease. the game seemed to serve as a backdrop for their conversation, but jungkook's attention was focused on the stack of papers spread out on the coffee table.

“you did what?” his voice was a mix of incredulity and disbelief as he stared at the surveys before him. the questions and answers were neatly recorded on the forms, and jungkook couldn't believe what he was seeing. seokjin, with a proud smirk, took another shot, his movements graceful and deliberate. “i paid the restaurant to hand out those surveys,” he said, a hint of satisfaction in his tone. “i wanted to see what kind of answer i'd get. and now, i need you to find the one with her name on it.”

jungkook’s eyebrows shot up in shock. “you’re seriously crazy, this is way over the top.” ignoring the incredulous glares from his elder, he picked up the stack of surveys and began sifting through them. his hands moved quickly, flipping through each paper as he muttered under his breath. “this is insane. what are you trying to accomplish?”

seokjin, meanwhile, remained focused on his game, the smirk never leaving his face. his confidence was unwavering, but jungkook could sense a trace of anxious anticipation beneath the surface. after what felt like an eternity to him, he finally spotted the survey with your name. he held it up, slightly hesitant. “here it is. this is the one.”

his eyes lit up with a mixture of excitement and triumph. he rushed over, snatching the paper from his hands with a deft movement. his gaze was fixed on the survey, and as he read through your answers, his smirk broadened into a genuine, if somewhat smug, smile.

“how childish,” he remarked aloud, his voice laced with a blend of amusement and satisfaction. he began reading your responses aloud with a playful tone. “ideal date spot: an amusement park. ideal activities: rides, very charming. ideal gift: a teddy bear.” jungkook watched, his initial skepticism replaced by bemused curiosity. “seriously? you’re actually taking this seriously?” he had never been more serious.

the call came just after you wrapped up your brief lunch with your friends, the sound of seokjin’s voice crackling through the speaker, urgent and commanding. “you need to meet me immediately,” he said, his tone brooking no argument. he gave you the coordinates, and you found yourself driving across town with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. arriving at the amusement park, you were surprised to see it eerily quiet and closed for the night. you sat on a bench near the entrance, trying to piece together what he could have possibly wanted in such an unconventional setting. the minutes ticked by slowly until seokjin finally appeared, stepping out of the darkness with his usual confident stride.

“what’s going on?” you asked, rising from the bench to meet him. “why did you bring me here?” his eyes twinkled with a secretive glint. “we’re going to be here for the night. i have a ‘free pass,’ so to speak.”

you blinked, puzzled. “a free pass? but the park is closed.” seokjin simply smiled, taking your hand and leading you towards the entrance. “just follow me.”

as you walked through the empty park, the moonlight casting long shadows across the deserted grounds, you couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. he guided you to one of the rollercoasters, and despite your protests, he insisted on riding it first. the rollercoaster roared to life, and as you climbed higher and higher, your heart raced with a blend of thrill and terror. when the ride finally came to a stop, you were visibly shaken, your hands still gripping the safety bar as if it were your lifeline.

he turned to you, his face stoic but his eyes searching. “did you have fun?” you hesitated, your voice trembling. “it was fun, i guess.”

he raised an eyebrow, sensing your unease. “why do you seem so hesitant?” you sighed, feeling a bit embarrassed. “it was too scary. i wasn’t expecting it to be so intense.” he looked at you with a mixture of concern and amusement. “then why did you go on it?”

“because you asked me to,” you admitted. a smile curved his lips, and he quickly shifted gears. “alright then, let’s go on rides you want to enjoy.” your face lit up with relief and excitement. you led him towards the merry-go-round, and as the ride spun in gentle circles, you felt a wave of childhood nostalgia. you waved enthusiastically, feeling the pure joy of the moment. he watched you, his gaze softening as he took in your happiness.

the merry-go-round went around seven times, and as you disembarked, you couldn’t stop smiling. seokjin then guided you into the park’s restaurant. to your surprise, the place was completely empty.

“what’s all of this?” you asked, glancing around in awe. he shrugged casually. “i rented everything out for the night. consider it a going-away present.”

your heart fluttered at his gesture. “thank you, vice chairman.” he smiled, slicing a steak and placing it in front of you. as you dug into the meal, he glanced at you with genuine interest. “why did you enjoy the merry-go-round so much?”

you hesitated, then opened up. “it was one of my favorite rides as a child. i used to watch it from afar, because my parents never had the money to let me actually ride it.” hiw expression softened, a shadow of sadness crossing his face. “i'm sorry to hear that.”

the meal continued in a comfortable silence, broken only by the occasional clinking of cutlery. after you finished, hw told you there was one more surprise. “just be patient,” he said with a hint of mischief in his eyes. curious, you followed him outside to a spot overlooking the sea. As you waited, the crackling sound of fireworks filled the air, bursting into vibrant colors against the night sky. your eyes widened with delight as you watched the display.

“isn’t it pretty?” you asked, turning to seokjin. his gaze was fixed on you, not the fireworks. “beautiful,” he replied, his voice low and sincere.

the car ride back was filled with a charged silence. as you stared out the window, a memory of the survey and its bossy tone flashed in your mind. you turned to Seokjin, your eyes wide with realization. he looked at you with a smug smile, clearly enjoying the surprise. before you could ask more, the car pulled up to your home. he exited and opened your door, handing you a large, stuffed teddy bear from the trunk. you were overwhelmed with gratitude and, in a moment of pure joy, you hugged your boss tightly.

to your astonishment, he hugged you back, his embrace warm and reassuring. as you pulled away, both of you were so close. too close for comfort. you knew better, stopping yourself as you glanced at the time. “it’s getting late,” you said softly. he nodded, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. “good night. i'll see you in the morning.”

the morning sun streamed through your bedroom window, casting a gentle glow over the room as you prepared for another day at work. you had almost forgotten about the stuffed teddy bear seokjin had gifted you the night before. as you reached for it, something shifted inside its pocket. curiosity piqued, you reached in and pulled out a small, elegant box.

opening it carefully, you found a delicate silver necklace inside. the intricate design and glint of the metal took your breath away. you were momentarily stunned, not expecting such a thoughtful gift. after a moment of hesitation, you decided to keep the necklace. you slipped it into your pocket, planning to wear it later.

at the office, you settled at your desk, the necklace still weighing on your mind. as you worked, you fished it out of your pocket and admired it, the silver catching the light. unbeknownst to you, he was watching from his office across the hall. his gaze softened as he observed you, a small, admiring smile on his lips. the sight of you, glowing with a mix of wonder and appreciation, made him think how gorgeous you were.

you finished adjusting the necklace around your neck, and as you headed to the bathroom, your phone rang. it was minji, her voice excited and insistent. “hey, i was just wondering if you’re still up for that blind date with my friend today? i know it’s short notice, but he’s really looking forward to it!”

it took a moment for the reminder to hit you. the blind date slipped your mind amidst the whirlwind of yesterday’s events. you agreed, albeit with some reluctance. “sure, i’ll meet him. just let me know the details.” as you entered the bathroom, keulgi emerged from a stall behind you, startling you. she had apparently overheard your conversation.

“are you going on a date?” she asked, her voice filled with surprise and curiosity. caught off guard, you nodded, glancing around to make sure no one else was within earshot. “yes, but please keep it quiet.” keulgi, ever enthusiastic, promised to keep it to herself. however, her enthusiasm got the better of her. as soon as you left the bathroom, she couldn't resist sharing the news with the rest of the office.

when you returned to your desk, the atmosphere in the office had noticeably shifted. colleagues whispered excitedly and shot you curious glances. the office buzzed with the news of your impending date. seokjin, who had been outside his office listening to the commotion, seethed with jealousy. his earlier soft smile had vanished, replaced by a scowl that betrayed his irritation. he paced back and forth, trying to control his frustration.

the excitement and chatter from your colleagues did nothing to ease his anger. his mind raced with thoughts of the date and the implications of your newfound interest. he couldn’t shake the feeling of possessiveness that gnawed at him, and the thought of someone else taking you out only fueled his frustration. the more he listened to the enthusiastic reactions of his staff, the more he felt his grip on his emotions slipping. he knew he needed to act, but he was caught between his pride and the undeniable feelings he had been trying to cast away.

the date began at a quaint, upscale café, where you met your blind date, taehyun. he greeted you with a polite smile and an amiable demeanor. as you made small talk, discussing interests and hobbies, taehyun seemed genuinely pleasant, though his compliments caught you off guard. “you look absolutely gorgeous tonight,” he said with a warm smile.

you blushed slightly, feeling a mix of embarrassment and surprise. “thank you,” you replied, attempting to refocus the conversation. as you chatted, you noticed that his tie was hanging loose and uneven. it irked you more than you expected, and you reached over to fix it, hoping to tidy up his appearance. he watched with a smile as you deftly adjusted the tie, clearly appreciative of the attention to detail.

just as you were about to continue the conversation, a loud, urgent yell interrupted the moment. “secretary (l/n)!”

you and taehyun both turned to see seokjin striding toward your table, his expression stormy and his eyes locked onto you with barely concealed anger. your heart skipped a beat at the sight of him. “vice chairman?” you asked, confusion mingling with concern. “what’s going on?”

he stopped in front of your table, his demeanor tense. “i need to see you urgently,” he said, his voice firm and unwavering. you glanced at taehyun, apologetic. “i’m so sorry, it seems to be an emergency.”

you followed him outside, where he led you to his waiting car. the drive began in silence, the air thick with unspoken tension. the car came to a sudden stop in the middle of the road, and you turned to seokjin, your anxiety growing. “what’s the matter?” you asked, trying to keep your voice calm despite the unease you felt.

his gaze was cold, his usual confident demeanor replaced by a stern, almost menacing composure. “never do that again,” he said, his voice carrying a tone of finality.

you frowned, confusion clouding your expression. “what do you mean? what did i do?” his eyes locked onto yours with intensity. “never let me see you with another man like that again.”

you didn’t respond immediately, and his jaw clenched as he seemed to wrestle with his emotions. finally, he added, “i don’t want to see you with anyone else. it’s not something i'm willing to accept.” the confession left you stunned. you stared at him, a mixture of surprise and realization dawning on you. the implications of his words were clear, and the protectiveness in his tone was undeniable. the car ride continued in silence, with the weight of his words lingering between you.

back at home, you went through your evening routine, attending to various tasks around the house. the day's events had left you both physically and emotionally drained. you found solace in a small ritual that had been a comforting presence throughout your life—your diary. sitting down at your desk, you pulled out the well-worn book, its pages filled with a mixture of memories, dreams, and sketches. as you flipped through the pages, you came across a series of drawings. they depicted a younger you and a boy, playing and laughing together. the accompanying writing read, “i miss you, brother.” the words tugged at your heart, and you felt a pang of sadness.

the drawings were a testament to a bond that had once been a central part of your life. as you closed the diary and set it aside, you felt the ache of missing something—or someone—important. the day’s events had stirred up memories you weren’t quite ready to confront.

later that night, as you drifted off to sleep, the familiar haze of dreams enveloped you. in your dream, you found yourself in a dimly lit basement, a place filled with shadows and echoes of the past. the little boy from your diary appeared, standing before you with a stern expression. you felt tears streaming down your cheeks, overwhelmed by a mixture of regret and longing. the boy began to scold you, his voice echoing with an authority that seemed to pierce through your sorrow. despite the scolding, you felt a deep sense of gratitude.

“thank you, kim soo—seo—” you started, trying to recall his name. but before you could finish, the boy cut you off with a tsk. “no, stupid. my name is kim seo—” the name was just on the tip of your tongue, but you couldn’t quite grasp it. the dream began to fade, and you woke up with a start, heart racing and breath uneven.

sitting up in bed, you felt the weight of the dream pressing on you. the name “kim seo” lingered in your mind, but it was elusive, slipping away before you could fully remember. the dream had left you with a deep sense of loss and confusion, and you were left grappling with the fragments of a memory that seemed to evade your grasp. as you lay back down, you couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something significant you were missing, a connection that was just out of reach. the memory of the dream and the name echoed in your thoughts, haunting you as you tried to find solace in sleep once more.

seokjin arrived at work the following day with a heavy air of exhaustion surrounding him. he trudged through the office, his usual confident stride replaced by a sluggish, disoriented gait. as the morning wore on, it became increasingly clear that he was struggling to stay awake. his head bobbed with fatigue as he sat at his desk, his eyes slipping shut despite his efforts to remain alert.

concerned, you approached his desk, gently shaking his shoulder. “vice chairman, are you alright?” when there was no response, you shook him harder, your worry mounting. his body felt unnervingly heavy, and it became clear that he was deeply asleep, his breathing uneven. panic surged through you as you realized the severity of the situation. without hesitation, you grabbed your phone and dialed for emergency services.

the paramedics arrived swiftly, their professional demeanor a small comfort amidst the chaos. you watched anxiously as they wheeled him into the ambulance. your heart pounded in your chest, and despite knowing it was likely nothing serious, you refused to leave his side.

in the hospital, as the medics prepared him for further examination, they reassured you that his condition wasn’t critical. “he’s just exhausted,” one of the paramedics said. “it’s likely just severe fatigue. you can go in once we’re done.” when you were finally allowed in, he was still asleep, his face pale and drawn. you took a seat next to him, trying to steady your breathing as you buried your face in your hands. the sight of him, knocked out cold, was deeply unsettling. It reminded you of something from your past—something too familiar.

as you stared at him, your thoughts drifted back to the boy from the basement. the way he was unconscious on the floor when the lady had taken you—the same position, the same labored breathing, the same pale complexion. the memories came rushing back, painful and vivid. the name “kim seo” echoed in your mind, but it didn’t quite fit. then you remembered the boy’s full name, “kim seohyeon.” the realization came with a jolt. “kim seohyeon,” you whispered to yourself, the name feeling strangely natural as it rolled off your tongue.

your relief was fleeting, however, as a chilling thought struck you. seokjin’s mother had asked you not even a couple days ago, “what do you think about my hyeon?” it wasn’t just a fragment of a bad memory—it was a piece of a puzzle falling into place. hesitantly, you turned your gaze back to him, who remained motionless. your heart raced as you said, “kim seohyeon.” your voice was shaky, trembling with the weight of the revelation.

for a moment, the room was silent, and you felt a brief sense of relief as though your words had broken the tension. but then, he stirred, his eyes fluttering open. his gaze was bleary, and he blinked at you in confusion. “what is it?” your heart sank as you saw his groggy, disoriented expression. the name you had just spoken had clearly registered with him, but his response was laced with irritation and confusion. you were left grappling with the enormity of the realization that seokjin—kim seohyeon—was more deeply connected to your past than you had ever imagined.

you took a deep breath, trying to steady the storm of emotions surging within you. “kim seohyeon,” you repeated, your voice trembling as you looked at seokjin. his eyes, which had been closed in exhaustion, flew open at the sound of his name. the shock and recognition dawned on his face as he fully grasped the situation. “it was you,” you said, your voice laden with disbelief.

your heart pounded as you pieced together the fragmented memories that had haunted you for so long. “i remember now,” you began, your voice quivering. “there was a boy—you were in the basement with me.” his expression shifted from confusion to horror as the realization sank in. “the dreams i’ve been having,” he said, his voice barely a whisper. “a black-haired woman, a basement—i’ve been dreaming about it for weeks.”

the pieces began to fall into place for you. “the boy i kept searching for, the one i couldn’t remember clearly—it was you. we were together in that basement. i’ve been trying to find you all this time, but i didn’t know it was you.” the enormity of the realization hit you like a tidal wave, and you began to sob uncontrollably. you had spent your entire life searching for the boy from the basement, the boy whose memory had haunted you for years. to discover that he was right under your nose all along, that seokjin was the one you had been seeking—it was overwhelming.

the flood of emotions surged through you, and the connections you had been struggling to piece together suddenly fell into place. the cables, the fear, the strange sense of familiarity—all of it made sense now. the sobs wracked your body, and you felt a deep, raw anguish as you realized how close you had come to losing him without ever knowing.

his gaze softened as he watched your breakdown. his usual composure and egotism crumbled in the face of your distress. weakly, he reached out to you, his hand trembling slightly. “it’s okay,” he said softly, his voice filled with a tender concern that was rare for him. “i’m here.” you hesitated for a moment, but then, seeking solace, you moved into his embrace. his arms wrapped around you, providing a comfort that felt both foreign and deeply familiar. you continued to cry, each sob a release of the pent-up fear and sorrow that had built up over the years. he held you close, his own breath shaky as he struggled to process the gravity of the situation. he stroked your hair gently, his touch soothing and steadying. the warmth of his embrace provided a sense of security that you hadn’t felt in a long time.

as your sobs began to subside, he pulled back slightly, tilting your chin so that you looked up at him. his eyes were filled with a mix of empathy and resolve. “you found me,” he said softly, his voice trembling with the weight of the moment. his words, though simple, carried a profound meaning. the realization that you had finally found him, the person you had been searching for, was both a relief and a heartbreak. in that moment, the intensity of your emotions reached a peak, and he leaned in, closing the gap between you.

his lips met yours in a kiss that was gentle at first, but quickly grew more passionate. it was a kiss that spoke of the pain, the longing, and the deep connection that had been forged through shared battles. you responded, kissing him back with equal fervor, allowing the years of separation and anguish to dissolve in the intensity of the moment. when the kiss finally broke, you both pulled back slightly, breathless and awestruck. the weight of the past had been acknowledged, and the connection between you was solidified in a way that was both profound and healing.

he looked into your eyes, his expression a mix of vulnerability and resolve. “we'll be okay,” he said softly, his voice filled with a newfound determination. you nodded, feeling a deep sense of relief and hope.

the weeks following the revelation passed in a strange, uncomfortable silence. despite the deep bond you and seokjin now shared, an unspoken tension lingered in the office. the connection between you had shifted, but neither of you quite knew how to bridge the gap between your past traumas and your present reality.

he had revealed to you the reason behind his name change to seokjin. his parents had insisted on the new identity as a protective measure, believing that if seohyeon no longer existed, the woman who had once terrorized him would never be able to find him. this revelation, while reassuring, had also created a chasm between you two that was hard to navigate.

one afternoon, as the silence in the office grew increasingly heavy, he called you into his office. his demeanor was serious as he gestured for you to take a seat. you entered, your heart racing slightly, unsure of what to expect. “thank you for coming,” he began, his voice steady but laced with an undertone of something you couldn’t quite place. “i need you to do something for me.” you straightened in your chair, adopting a professional tone. “what is it?”

seokjin looked at you with an intensity that made your breath catch. “i need you to be my girlfriend.” the words hung in the air between you, and you were momentarily stunned into silence. “what?” you managed to ask, your voice betraying your shock.

his gaze softened as he continued, his expression vulnerable. “i’ve been thinking a lot about us. after everything we’ve been through, i realized how much i care about you. i need you in my life, not just as my secretary, but as my girlfriend.”

his confession touched you deeply, and you felt a swell of emotion rise within you. “vice chairman” you began, struggling to find the right words. “i didn’t expect this.”

he nodded, his gaze never leaving yours. “i know. it’s sudden, and i understand if you need time. but i wanted to be honest with you about how i feel.” the sincerity in his voice, combined with the gravity of his words, made your heart ache with a mix of relief and hope. you were touched by his honesty and the way he had finally allowed himself to be vulnerable with you.

he then leaned forward slightly, his expression shifting to something more earnest. “there’s one more thing,” he said, his voice lowering. “i need you to kiss me.”

your eyes widened at his request. the gravity of the moment, coupled with your feelings for him, made your pulse race. you nodded slowly, feeling a surge of emotions—affection, longing, and a deep connection. you stood up and walked over to him, your heart pounding in your chest. his gaze followed you, his expression a mixture of anticipation and tenderness. as you reached him, you leaned in, closing the distance between you.

the kiss was tender, filled with the emotions you both had been holding back. It was a sweet, unspoken promise of a new beginning. he responded gently, his hands resting on your back as he deepened the kiss. when you finally pulled away, both of you were breathless, your faces flushed with the intensity of the moment. he looked at you with a soft smile, his eyes reflecting the vulnerability and affection that had been building between you.

his voice was soft and teasing as he traced his fingers gently along your back. “this means you’ll be my girlfriend, doesn’t it?” the playful tone in his voice, combined with the tender touch, made you smile despite the whirlwind of emotions you were feeling. you nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and affection. “yes, it does.”

his eyes lit up with a genuine smile, his teasing demeanor giving way to something more heartfelt. “i’m glad to hear that. i’ve been wanting to ask you for a long time, but i didn’t know how.” you laughed softly, shaking your head. “you didn’t need to wait so long. i think we both knew how we felt about each other.”

his smile widened as he pulled you into a gentle hug, his arms encircling you with a sense of relief and contentment. “i guess it’s true,” he said, his voice warm and sincere. “sometimes, the things you’re looking for are right in front of you.” they really were, as it seemed.

the next few days at work were marked by an underlying tension that neither of you could quite shake off. seokjin was noticeably less cold and demanding, a stark contrast to his previous demeanor. the change was subtle but significant. he found himself taking more interest in your presence, often waving at you from across the office with a grin that was almost boyish. each time you waved back, his smile would widen, and a look of genuine joy would light up his face.

the change didn’t go unnoticed by your colleagues, who observed the shift in seokjin’s behavior with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. however, no one dared to comment, respecting the unspoken agreement that something had clearly shifted in the office dynamics.

as the days passed, his new feelings for you started to manifest in ways he hadn’t anticipated. while he relished the sweetness of your new relationship, he found himself increasingly aware of the more physical aspects of your presence. he couldn’t ignore how his pulse quickened when he noticed the way your tight skirts accentuated your figure, or how the sight of your bare legs and hair pulled back made him sweat in the middle of meetings.

he tried to maintain his composure, but the intensity of his feelings became difficult to manage. his attempts to focus on work were often disrupted by thoughts of you, and he struggled to keep his desires in check.

one afternoon, unable to ignore his escalating emotions any longer, he called you into his office. his voice, usually commanding, now carried a hint of nervousness. “can you come in here for a moment?” you nodded, entering his office with a sense of anticipation. seokjin closed the door behind you and gestured for you to lock it. his eyes were intense as he watched you comply. he then moved to pull down the blinds, casting the room into a more private, dimly lit atmosphere.

“what’s going on?” you asked, your voice tinged with concern as you approached him. he looked at you with a mixture of longing and hesitation, his gaze fixed on yours. “i need you to understand something,” he said softly. “it’s not just about what we’ve been through, or about being together. i—”

he paused, taking a deep breath as he reached out to pull you closer. the seriousness in his eyes gave way to a softer, more vulnerable expression. “i need you to know how much i care about you. and right now, i can’t help but feel…”

before he could finish, he leaned in and kissed you. the kiss was different from before—less tender, more urgent and needy. it was filled with the intensity of emotions that had been building up inside him. you responded to the kiss, your own feelings mirroring his. the kiss deepened, and the world outside the office seemed to fade away as you both lost yourselves in the moment.

it was a kiss that spoke of months of unspoken yearning, a kiss that shattered the professional façade you had both so carefully maintained. his hand found the small of your back, pulling you closer. his other hand cupped your cheek, his thumb tracing the outline of your mouth as you kissed him deeper. his tongue slipped past your lips, tasting, exploring. you gasped, your body responding instinctively to his touch.

that was it. the moment you had both been waiting for, the moment that would change everything. you could feel the tension in the room, a tight coil winding tighter with every passing second. the sound of a zipper echoed through the room as seokjin stood, lifting you onto his desk. your legs wrapped around his waist, and you could feel his erection pressing against you, hot and insistent. your breath hitched as he kissed along your neck, his teeth grazing your skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps in their wake.

he stepped back for a moment, looking into your eyes, searching for permission. you nodded, unable to form words, and he took that as his cue. his hands found the buttons of your blouse, deftly undoing them one by one. your bra was next, revealing your tits to his hungry gaze. He took one in his hand, squeezing gently, and your moan filled the room.

he leaned in, taking your nipple into his mouth. you arched your back, the sensation shooting straight to your core. he sucked, his tongue flicking over the sensitive peak, and your hips rolled against him. he groaned, his grip on your hip tightening. the anticipation was palpable as he reached for his belt, his eyes never leaving yours. you could see the need in them, the same need that was building within you. as he stepped closer, you felt his hardness pressing against your thigh, and you knew there was no turning back.

he whispered something in your ear, something filthy and thrilling, and you could feel your cheeks flush with arousal. his hands found the zipper of your skirt, sliding it down with a sound that seemed unnaturally loud in the quiet office. your skin prickled with excitement as the fabric fell away, revealing your lacy underwear. his hand slid under the fabric, his fingers finding your wetness. he groaned again, his breath hot against your neck. “you're so wet for me,” he murmured, his voice thick with desire.

you nodded, your eyes closing as he began to stroke you, his touch tentative at first, then growing bolder as your moans grew louder. your body was on fire, every nerve ending alive with sensation. you knew you were his, and he was yours, in this every stolen moment of passion.

with a final tug, his hand found your bare skin, and you gasped as he touched you, his fingers exploring your folds with an urgency that mirrored your own. you could feel your core tightening around his touch, desperate for more. he pulled back slightly, a smirk playing on his lips as he watched your reaction. “you like that, don't you?” he asked, his voice a low growl. you nodded, your eyes glazed over with desire. he leaned in, capturing your mouth again in a bruising kiss as his thumb began to circle your clit. the sensation was overwhelming, and you felt yourself getting closer and closer to the edge. you didn't know if you could hold on much longer.

suddenly, he stopped, his hand moving away from your panties. you whimpered in protest, but he just chuckled, a dark sound that sent shivers down your spine. “patience,” he murmured, “we're just getting started.”

with surprising strength, he flipped you over, so that you were now lying face down on his desk, your ass in the air. he stepped back, and you could feel his eyes on you, taking in the sight of your exposed body. you felt a thrill of exhibitionism, knowing that he was seeing you in such a vulnerable state.

he leaned over you, his breath hot on your ear. "you're so fucking beautiful," he whispered, his voice filled with lust. his hand came down in a firm smack on your ass, and you yelped in surprise. the sting was quickly replaced by a warmth that spread through your body, making you wetter than ever.

he smacked you again, harder this time, and you moaned. the sound seemed to spur him on, and his hand began to move in a steady rhythm, alternating between gentle caresses and firm slaps. you felt yourself getting wetter with every hit, your body begging for more. “do you like that, baby?” he asked, his voice strained with his own need. “yes,” you managed to gasp out, your voice shaky. “more.”

he complied, his hand coming down harder and faster, each smack echoing through the room. you could feel yourself getting closer, your body trembling with the effort of holding back. and then, with one final, brutal slap, you shattered, your orgasm ripping through you like a storm. he leaned down, his breathing ragged, and kissed the back of your neck. “you're mine,” he murmured, his voice possessive. “mine to claim.”

and with that, he reached for his own pants, his hands shaking with desire. he freed himself, and you could feel the tip of his cock brushing against your wetness. without another word, he pushed inside you, filling you up in one swift, agonizingly sweet motion. you yelled, the pleasure overwhelming as he claimed your virginity, your body stretching to accommodate his size.

he didn't stop there, though. he began to move, his hips pistoning into you with a relentless rhythm that had you seeing stars. you could feel every inch of him, and it was more than you had ever imagined. each thrust was a declaration of ownership, each moan a promise of more to come. you pushed back against him, meeting him halfway, your body moving in perfect sync with his. you were lost in the sensation, the pain and pleasure melding into something indescribable. your hands gripped the edge of the desk, knuckles white, as you held on for dear life.

“fuck, you're tight,” he grunted, his voice strained. “so tight.” your response was a whimper, your throat too tight to form words. all you could do was moan and arch your back, taking him deeper, letting him fill you completely. the room spun around you as he picked up the pace, his hands digging into your hips as he drove into you. you could feel his climax building, his breaths coming in harsh pants against your neck. and then, with a final, guttural groan, he came, his warmth flooding into you.

you collapsed onto the desk, your body spent, as he pulled out and leaned over you, his chest heaving. he kissed your shoulder, his breathing slowly returning to normal. the room was silent, save for the sound of your ragged breaths.

for a moment, you both just stayed there, basking in the afterglow of what had just happened. but reality began to seep back in, and you felt a sudden rush of self-consciousness. you were his secretary, and you had just had unprotected sex on his desk. the implications of your actions were just beginning to hit you.

seokjin must have noticed the change in your demeanor because he leaned in, whispering in your ear, “don't worry, i've got you.” his words were soothing, but they didn't entirely ease the anxiety coiling in your stomach. he helped you sit up, and you both began to straighten your clothes, trying to erase the evidence of your passionate encounter. your heart was racing, and you couldn't help but steal glances at him, seeing him in a new light. “we can't do this again,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper. “what if someone finds out?”

he turned to face you, cupping your cheek. “they won't,” he assured you. “this is our secret.” his eyes searched yours, and you could see the determination in them. “but if they do,” he trailed off, a smug smile playing on his lips. “well, then they'll just have to deal with it. you're my girlfriend, after all.”

you couldn't help but smile back, his confidence infectious. but deep down, you knew that this was just the beginning. the line between professional and personal had been irrevocably crossed, and there was no going back.

✧.*

a/n: literally no one asked for this idc this is so funny to me i based the name off one drama and the plot off another goodbye

[theconstitutionisgayculture]

According to Theresa Hilton, Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, the alleged ringleaders are Vilma Deleon Bracamonte, 55, of Hamilton, and Maria Soledad Xec Chan, 42, of Trenton. Hilton said the two lured women to the brothels under false pretenses, promising jobs cleaning homes or working in restaurants. Once inside, some victims were allegedly told they had to perform sex acts before they could leave. One woman said she was threatened with harm to her family if she refused, officials said.

...

Vilma Deleon Bracamonte, aka “Janet,” 55, of Hamilton, New Jersey, and Maria Soledad Xec Chan, 42, of Trenton, are allegedly the leaders of the trafficking network, who would lure victims to the houses. Santiago Miranda-Gomez, 30, and Francisco Macariosut, 50, both of Trenton, are alleged “inspectors” for the enterprise, picking up money twice a day from the houses and making sure they functioned through intimidation of the victims and the “house managers.”

For all the "all men are evil and all women are pure angels" crowd, I want to make special mention that the two leaders of this trafficking ring are women.

[alexa-yukiyu]

Locked Database ( Mihawk x f!reader x Crocodile)

A/N yoooooo, I spent yesterday and today makind this, got stuck a lot but I was determined to make it happened. This one is darker than what you guys are used from me but I wanted feedback that part of me a little bit. Million thanks to @quinloki and @💧Anon for giving me inspiration and ideas for this 👀.

Reader here is replaced by Dokucha as a place holder which stands for Reader in japanese

Dividers by @/saradika

“You sure stand out, don’t you, Mr. President?” Crocodile growled, shoving the newly distributed paper on Buggy’s Throat

“It wasn’t me, I swear,” he cries

“Then how the hell do you explain it?” He said, sending a swift kick his way, ignoring the pain-filled groan that escaped him.

“I should kill you for that, clown,” he said, inching his hook closer to his neck, pausing as a knife was sent his way, passing right through his sandy body.

Mihawk continued sipping on his wine as a knife was sent his way, simply edging away slightly to avoid it, yellow irises narrowing at a woman standing before them

“Leave him alone,” she growls, a pistol drawn and pointed their way

“Dokucha” Cries Buggy

“Mr.1,” Crocodile calls, dismissedly

“Let him go,” she demanded, breath hitching as an arm wrapped around her neck, a sharp edge to it.

“Drop the weapon,” a voice grumbled behind her.

She grits her teeth, complying as the hold around her tightened, the blade digging into her skin.

“Who are you?” Crocodile asks, raising an eyebrow when his question goes unanswered.

Mihawk takes notice of this and places his wine down, and in one swift movement, takes hold of Yoru and places the sharp edge against Buggy’s neck

“Stop!” She said, trying to make a run towards him being held back by the person behind her

“Who are are you?” Mihawk Drawls

“…”

He quirks a brow at this, digging his sword closer to the Buggy, receiving a whine from the severed head

“Im his sister,” she growls

“Of this clown?” Mihawk inquires, glancing at her

“Dokucha, don’t! You moron, get out of here!” The clown pleads

“Not without you.”

“Wonder if selling you into slavery will be able to get me back all the money this one owes me.”

“Don’t touch h- Agh,” he groans as Crocodile tightens his hold on him

“Perhaps the money she gets us will be enough so we don’t have to sell you, then we can kill you here and now.”

“W-Wait” she exclaims

“You’re starting to annoy me.”

“You said you were starting a new business, right?”

He hums, gesturing to the person behind them

She sighs as the person releases her

“I'm a prodigy at statistics and economy.” She starts

“I have the ability of a devil fruit aiding me as well, makes me a human database, I can calculate in seconds, provide prognostics just as fast, I can reach valuable contacts, gather the information you can only imagine, run enough statistics to power enterprises ”she continued, getting on her knees in front of them

“I know he is an idiot, but he is still my brother; please spare him. I will work for your company; I can easily raise it and make it a formidable force, so please don’t kill my brother.” she spoke bowing her head

Mihawk takes a glance over at the begging woman

“Come here.”

She looked up at the swordsman, slowly getting up and approaching the men

“If you truly are related to this one, then you have to prove your worth,” Crocodile said, pulling out a paper and handing it to her

“These are the current funds we have. Thanks to your brother, we also have the investments we must make for the guild. Tell me how you would make it work.”

She gingerly took the paper and looked it over, her brain beginning to perform calculations, pulling information and strategies from the network, trying to find the best fit

“Well?”

“First, I would take into account the possible outcomes and expenses of these upcoming investments and create an estimated balance sheet of the income and expenses that will be generated as opposed to current investments. After that, I will assess the risk that will be involved with each expected investment and determine the expected rate of return. Additionally, I will create a comprehensive budget and forecast for expected revenues and expenses to ensure that the guild has enough resources to carry out its operations while remaining solvent. I would move funds between areas they are more needed in, I would eliminate funds given to man-power and employees to the guild; my brother has no shortage of workers, so that is something the funds should not be wasted in," she rambles

Crocodile stares at her for a few seconds until an ominous laugh escapes him

“Well, Well, seems one of the siblings is actually competent.” He stays with a grin, letting out a cloud of smoke

“Why would a smart thing like you sacrifice yourself for him?”

“Are you deaf? He is my brother, an idiot, but still my brother; I'm not leaving him to die to the likes of you.”

“That so?”

“Yes,” she growls

He hums, sending a kick to the body in front of him, the smile growing on his face at the painful whines that escaped Buggy as he did so

“Why would you do that?!” She cries, bending down to help her brother, only to stop as a sword is placed at her neck, silently urging her to rise again

She throws a glance at Mihawk as she slowly stands up again

“What are you doing?”

“I don’t appreciate the tone you are taking; if memory serves me correctly, You were the one who got on their knees begging for mercy, and we heard your plea, and in return, you insulted us?” He spoke, raising Yoru and letting a small smile as Dokucha tried to rise with it to avoid being nicked

“Don’t touch her, please! Spare her!”

Crocodile grunts, growing tired of the bluehead’s whines and sending his hook smashing to his temple, knocking him out

“Buggy!” Dokusha cried, hissing when the sword dug into her skin as she tried to step closer to her brother

“Now we can have a talk without that clown interrupting,” Crocodile spoke, letting out another train of smoke escape him

“Need I remind you that you are not the one at the advantage here, Darling?” he began leaning back

“You are outwitted, outnumbered, and outpowered; you stand no chance to leave of this unharmed, much less that brother of yours; we decided to hear your deal out but never said we would agree.”

“…”

“You certainly are an asset, and now that we know what you are capable of, we can’t allow you to leave.”

“We will spare his life; we will let him become the figurehead of crossguild, make him the scapegoat.” Mihawk continues

“A coward like him is sure to obey without complaint, especially with you in the picture. But that also brings us to you,” Crocodile spoke, looking at her mockingly. Turning to one of his subordinates and began to mutter some orders to them

“Eyes on me,” Mihawk called, pulling her attention away from the scarred man and back to him

“Seems you have more common sense and pride than him, but don’t forget where you stand.”

She grits her teeth, holding back her tongue from snapping back at him, knowing that no matter what she said, no matter what came out her mouth, he was not wrong. Her ability was the only thing keeping her alive and on their radar; she wasn’t and probably would never be a significant threat to the two Warlords.

He smiles at this

“Down,” he orders

“I ‘m not a damn mutt.”

“Yes, a dog wouldn't be this much trouble to train,” he muses

“You da-

“Down, girl,” he repeats, a firmer tone in his voice

She glares at him as she eventually does as he wants and kneels on the ground in front of them

“That will do,” she hears Crocodile mutter as the subordinate returns with something in his hands; she tries to turn to asses what the item

Was but was stopped by the sword again

“Eyes on me,” the swordsman repeats

“You have no idea what you are dealing with,” she sneers

“We do. Thanks to your pleas and little demonstration we do, and that’s why we will take precautions,” the familiar voice of Crocodile rumbles behind her; before she jad time to register his words, the sound of something snapping, and the slight weight on her shoulders answer her question

“You have quite the ability; we can’t have you trying to communicate with someone who would create a problem for us or divulging important information, so from now on, we get to decide when and how you use that devil fruit of yours.”

A feeling of dread envelops her as she tries to enter her mindscape only to be unable to find anything

“Sea stone,” Crocodile confirms

“As I said, we get to decide when and how you use it from now on, little Plover.”

“So let’s talk about what is going to happen now”

This just makes me feel some sorta waaay, what are we thinking @quinloki i, @💧anon? I am having the time of my life with this one 😂. So proud of that last part with Mihawk, really like how it turned out. Also ya’ll if that small statistic/economy talk din’t make any sense it’s because I have no idea what the hell im talking about 😂 I just used fancy words I heard my dad use, since he is a banker I figured they would fit the context.

Taglist:

@imaginarydreams

@amethystviolin

@h0n3y-l3m0n05

[mariacallous]

In the winter of 2022, Rachel Maddow announced that she was taking a break from her nightly show on MSNBC. An expectation that she would step away permanently created “a near-existential crisis” for the network, Dylan Byers, a reporter for Puck, wrote, with industry insiders chattering about “the lack of an obvious successor.” Byers asked whether Jen Psaki—who was still President Biden’s press secretary but reportedly close to leaving the White House for a TV gig, and on the radar of several networks—offered a potential solution. “After all,” Byers noted, her role under Biden required her “to explain complicated matters of politics and policy and debunk falsehoods—which is not dissimilar from the job Maddow has created for herself at 9 P.M., where she typically punctures G.O.P. talking points and spends entire segments circuitously arriving at a point.” Psaki’s time in the White House briefing room had also made her a darling of a certain type of #Resistance liberal—for restoring a “West Wing”-ish sense of civility after the caustic Trump years, but also for her supposedly deft clapbacks to reporters’ vacuous or hostile questions. Those came to be known online as #PsakiBombs.

Psaki did, indeed, end up at MSNBC, but not as Maddow’s immediate successor in the coveted 9 P.M. slot, which went to Alex Wagner, a former daytime host. Maddow stuck around, but hosted only one night a week. She returned to full-time duties, however, for the first hundred days of the second Trump Administration, which she covered with alarm, while also emphasizing the growing grassroots opposition to it. And, now that that period is over, Wagner is out, and Psaki is finally inheriting the time slot. (Maddow will continue her weekly appearances; Wagner will stay at MSNBC as a senior political analyst.) Psaki’s ascent, as Byers, of Puck, put it recently, suggests that she is now, along with Maddow, the “marquee star of the MSNBC enterprise.” In a trailer for her new show, she struck a Maddovian note of anti-Trump defiance. “You can’t cower to bullies; that’s how they win,” she said. “We are not powerless. We have our voices. And I will continue using mine.”

Yet Psaki and Maddow are in many ways different. As I’ve written before, Maddow’s signal contribution to the cable format, which can often be superficial, has been her often lengthy and, yes, circuitous monologues situating current events in historical context, a technique that can bring a welcome cooling perspective in crazy times, however overheated Maddow might then get about the news of the day. (You don’t have to like her politics to appreciate her approach—Steve Bannon has described himself as an admirer.) Psaki, during a media tour to promote her new show, has stressed that Maddow is inimitable and suggested, instead, that her own chief value will be as an experienced insider who can decrypt Washington for viewers. “I like history, too,” she told Byers, but “what I feel like my love is, and what I have experience in and hopefully I can bring insight to, is, like, what it’s like to be in the arena.” Maddow told People that this would make Psaki’s show better than hers. Psaki “both knows people and knows how to talk to people,” Maddow said, before describing herself as “a weird little hermit.”

It seems doubtful, however, that Psaki will become as much an avatar of the resistance to Trump 2.0 as Maddow was of the #Resistance to Trump 1.0, or that she will score as well in that most crucial of cable currencies: ratings. As other commentators have suggested, the #PsakiBomb phenomenon was always strange, belying how bland and low-key most of her public performances as press secretary actually were. (And it now feels like a relic: a search for the hashtag on X and Bluesky this week, the morning after the first episode of her show aired, returned no new results.) Maddow—once dubbed a “bellowing soothsayer” by Vanity Fair, and, reportedly, “ratings Viagra” by network executives—has built an enormously loyal audience over the years. Those tipped to step into her shoes—Wagner, Mehdi Hasan—haven’t managed to match her.

In many ways, though, this is an unfair expectation. In part, Maddow has been so successful because she is and always has been a singular talent. But we are also, of course, living through the fracturing of our information ecosystem. The question now, perhaps, isn’t whether Psaki or anyone else is the next Maddow, but whether the 9 P.M. Eastern hour on MSNBC still matters at all, as either a source of news or a lightning rod for liberal energy.

It’s a common article of faith that cable news is dying, ditto that the mediasphere has splintered since the heyday of Walter Cronkite (or even of CNN), with younger people, in particular, now getting their news—or, more worryingly, not—from a dizzying array of apps, social platforms, and podcasts, and a combination of opaque algorithms and personal choice insuring that no two news consumers see exactly the same things. Trump, we have been told endlessly, has expertly gamed this new world, by weaponizing the decline of traditional news sources to sow division and distrust and, more recently, appearing on podcasts—both political and ostensibly not—that value vibes and authenticity over facts. As the manosphere goes, apparently, so goes the nation.

Since Trump returned to office, prominent Democrats have sought to catch up to his perceived advantage online, sometimes even giving the appearance that they’ve used the internet before. In March, as Trump addressed a joint session of Congress, Democratic lawmakers invited liberal influencers to help amplify their response, though some of the resulting content was mocked as staged or, worse, cringe; around the same time, Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, launched a podcast featuring bizarre, friendly banter with hard-right brawlers like Bannon and Charlie Kirk. (Jay Caspian Kang panned the endeavour as “embarrassing” in this column). Other governors have been less embarrassing, on sports shows, for instance, and last month, Pete Buttigieg, the former Transportation Secretary, dipped at least one toe into the manosphere, chatting for nearly three hours on the comedy podcast “Flagrant” and coming across as relatively relatable. Last week, MeidasTouch—a liberal content machine that posts hyperactively across various platforms and has been described as appealing “to those for whom Rachel Maddow is too subtle”—hosted four governors for a virtual town hall, including J. B. Pritzker, of Illinois, who is currently being touted as a key leader of the resistance.

One can debate whether Psaki qualifies as a prominent Democrat in a political sense; she has spent the bulk of her career in Democratic campaigns and Administrations but, after joining MSNBC, has described herself as a journalist. Either way, her anti-Trump message is broadly the same, and will have to overcome similar challenges in breaking through a crowded media environment. High-profile former cable anchors—including Joy Reid, axed from MSNBC (to Maddow’s dismay) during the same programming reshuffle that saw Psaki elevated—have found an audience by posting independently to Substack, stripped of the bells and whistles of a fancy studio. In a similar vein, people are increasingly watching the video versions of podcasts as TV. The most influential resistance-adjacent media figure of this moment might not be anyone at MSNBC but the Times columnist and podcast host Ezra Klein. Recently, MeidasTouch briefly overtook Joe Rogan’s wildly popular podcast in terms of downloads.

It’s certainly true that the 9 P.M. Eastern slot on MSNBC is too little (and literally too late) to stand astride the modern media landscape. And yet it’s also possible to exaggerate the death of established formats. The notion that Trump won last year because he had the brilliant idea to tour apolitical podcasts, and that this was entirely new, oversimplifies the reality. Fox News remains hugely influential on the right, and is still watched by several million people in prime time; Maddow’s nightly show during the first hundred days of Trump’s current term scored ratings in the millions, too. (Indeed, hers was the only non-Fox offering among the top fifteen highest-rated cable shows between January and March.) And political élites still care about what happens on cable—not least Trump himself, who has stuffed his Administration with Fox personalities, and recently found time to attack Maddow from the Oval Office. (“Nobody watches her anyway,” he said—a telltale sign that people do.)

The line between the polished old-school structure of the TV studio and the badlands of the podcastverse is perhaps blurrier than it might initially appear. It’s impossible to imagine an MSNBC version of, for example, Buttigieg’s three-hour “Flagrant” odyssey (with its digressions on, among other things, how hot Scandinavians are). But if shows like that reflect, in part, a growing audience demand for content that takes more time to unspool than the typical cable segment, one could argue that Maddow preëmpted that trend, and did it on cable news, with her winding historical monologues and earnest self-presentation. (In recent years, Maddow has herself adapted to the fracturing of our media world, branching out into podcasts and books, in addition to her show.) And some digital offerings, like the MeidasTouch governors’ town hall with Pritzker et al., would not look so out of place on MSNBC. Psaki, for her part, has spoken recently of the importance of making content for TikTok or YouTube in between her nightly shows, rather than counting on being appointment viewing. “Everybody kind of has to do everything right now,” she told the Poynter Institute. “If there was one thing, everybody would be doing it. There isn’t one clear silver bullet. So we all gotta try lots of stuff.”

If the point of MSNBC’s 9 P.M. hour is to be the tentpole for the resistance, based on some idea of a TV-centric liberal monoculture, Psaki’s show is all but destined to fail. The notion of a singular tentpole was always a bit of an illusion anyway, even during the early days of the first Trump Administration, when Maddow was No. 1 in prime time and perhaps at the apogee of her cultural relevance, for better or worse. (I’m old enough to remember the buzz generated, around the same time, by an upstart liberal venture called “Pod Save America.”) And the further fragmentation of the media landscape doesn’t mean that prime time has suddenly turned into worthless real estate. Psaki’s show will, at least, be one fragment among all the others, and perhaps a relatively noticeable one. She may not have a hot new platform. But she is a political celebrity, which can still help you stand out from the crowd.

If the media environment is fragmented, so, too, is the Democratic resistance itself: split, as Kang wrote in this column, in February, among incompatible strategic impulses; severed from a discredited Party establishment but uncertain where to go next; fundamentally leaderless. As Biden’s former press secretary, Psaki is plausibly part of that discredited establishment, even if she left the role in 2022. (During her recent media tour, she has had to parry questions as to what, if anything, she knew about Biden’s decline, with her response—essentially, that she knew nothing—proving to be catnip for right-wing websites.) But, as Kang suggested, those who still have a platform can use it to cast off the establishment mantle—even if they really should have to wear it. A leadership vacuum is also an opportunity.

Kang ended his column by asking readers to “picture the most intense, bleeding-heart liberal you know, the type who has five signs in their front yard, rage-watches the news, and has spent the past ten years worried that Donald Trump will march us straight into fascism,” and then wondering where all that energy might go next. That person sounds, to me, like a Maddow viewer, and possibly now a Psaki one. Psaki surely won’t harness that energy for herself, at least not in any electoral sense. (She has said that she’s done with government service, unless she’s one day offered an ambassadorship in a warm climate.) But she is pitching her new show as a space where possible future Democratic leaders—prominent already or not—will be able to get a hearing, and that itself confers a certain sort of power. Recently, Byers, of Puck, asked Psaki how she’s thinking about MSNBC’s status as a Democratic Party forum, now that others exist, too. “There are still millions of people—more if you’re Rachel Maddow and Fox News—but there’s still millions of people watching cable at night,” she replied. MSNBC has “a tremendously dedicated audience of people who wanna hear what all these people who may aspire to be leaders have to say.”

[sp-delta]

Finally...she's here!

Oh, who is she? A misty memory...

> Delta is a specialized exploit program developed by an anonymous hacker who was secretly hired by the Dillingers. For a hefty reward, this programmer agreed to infiltrate the corporate network of ENCOM and obtain exclusive confidential documents needed to take over the business.

Using technical vulnerabilities of the target enterprise, Delta successfully penetrates the internal system of the organization and gains full access to the entire volume of corporate data. However, contrary to expectations, the files sought are not there. However, another important discovery attracts the hacker's attention - information about a mysterious infrastructure called the Grid.

Assuming that the files sought may be there, the attacker begins a lengthy process of searching for information about the new discovery. To accomplish this task, the specialist equips the tool he created - the Delta program - with the ability to independently analyze large volumes of data and sends it to explore the virtual infrastructure known as the Grid.

After much work exploring multiple levels and subsystems, Delta finally finds what the mission was launched for - the Grid itself and the ability to penetrate it. During the exploration of the Grid, it is discovered by protective programs that threaten delete Delta. However, using its abilities, the exploit manages not only to repel the attack, but also to obtain additional information, including information about a certain "system administrator". Delta realizes that all the most important information may be stored with him and sets off. The system administrator turns out to be a program in black and yellow robes named CLU. He admires her abilities and at the same time is wary of her knowledge of users. However, he decides to make her his ally. This is where the unexpected happens: the connection between the operator-programmer and the Delta program itself is suddenly lost.

This situation becomes a serious problem for the creator of the program, because the contact was lost unexpectedly and for no apparent reason. At the same time as the connection disappears, the visual representation of the program's lines takes on an unusual shade of red-orange.

Features:

• vision that allows you to see vulnerabilities

• the ability to penetrate the protective barriers of programs and systems. Exploit is able to detect weak points in defenses and use them to get inside. Once inside, it begins to manipulate the internal mechanisms of the program, taking control of it* and forcing it to act contrary to its original goals.

*"take control"

Taking control implies the ability to influence the behavior of a program by performing certain operations, such as changing settings, stealing data, installing additional software and other unwanted actions.

• Due to its flexibility and adaptability, the exploit can imitate other programs, hiding among the peaceful inhabitants of the Tron world. This ability makes it virtually invisible to guards and patrols, allowing it to freely move around the territory, collecting valuable information.

> The triangle symbol (∆) on Delta's chest is her distinctive mark, the symbol of her name, her essence, her abilities. (The ∆ sign is used in mathematics, physics and other sciences to denote difference, increment, or change.)

(I finally finished retcon Delta and made her story acceptable. I hope you like it!)

[one-of-many-journeys]

Day 33 (1/2)

Song's Edge

The Banuk were all heading for a pyre on the edge of the camp, looking out toward the fire and smoke pouring from a distant mountain. I met an Oseram trader called Burgrend, who was willing to explain the situation where other Banuk were sombre and aloof. Outlanders stick together I suppose. He's a trader, like Ohtur, but I suppose he's still determined to make some shards out of his doomed enterprise.

He told me about the Banuk's expedition to Thunder's Drum—the mountain now spitting fire. A Werak (a sort of roaming hunting party, but bonded by tribal law) led by its Cheiftan Aratak and Shaman Ourea took their best hunters into the mountain to fight off a 'Daemon', the being responsible for strengthening the machines in the area. Not demon, then. Either way, a word for some bodiless evil they don't understand, just like Hades. The Daemon fought back, and most of the expedition was lost.

Their bodies couldn't be recovered, so the Shamans of Song's Edge built metal avatars for the fallen and posted them up on the cliff's edge, calling in a flock of Glinthawks to take away the scrap. Along with the souls of the dead, I guess.

According to Burgrend, Ourea has disappeared, gone off to some mountain retreat to seek guidance from shamanic spirits. The expedition was her idea, and from the rousing, if bleak speech Aratak gave at the funeral pyre, they mean to try again.

I also asked Burgrend about Sylens. He said he'd heard the name before, always whispered, as if he were some phantom of ill-fortune that the Banuk would rather forget. Something happened between him and the Conclave of Shamans in Ban-Ur. Given his disregard for what he called the tribe's 'mysticisms', it was probably some form of sacrilege. Not that that will deter me from trusting him. Where lives and hidden truths are concerned, sacrilege is fair game.

I spoke to Aratak after the ritual was done. He was predictably stand-offish toward me, an outlander interfering in the tribe's affairs. He couldn't tell me any more about the Daemon, only more of the same: new, deadlier machines. He told me to stay away from Ourea, whose arts were not for the eyes of outlanders.

He says he prefers deeds to words. Good thing I'm better with deeds anyway.

Burgrend told me of Naltuk, Ourea's apprentice, who was scouting north along the river's path. He'll know where she is. Whether he'll tell me or not is another question.

Rested in the settlement for a while. I went to buy myself some warmer clothes for the trek north, only to discover that my healthy stash of shards is worthless here. The Banuk merchants trade exclusively in something called 'Bluegleam'. No wonder Ohtur and Burgrend have had problems opening up commerce.

A Shaman was giving a performance, telling the origin myth of the Banuk, casting fire and salts and scraping machine sounds from strange instruments. They say a woman named Banukai was chased into these lands by the 'Ravenous Tribe', and the wild machines saved her and imbued her with the spirit of the blue light, but the process tore her apart from the inside. The machines patched her up with cables and metal, making her part machine herself, until she died in the snow and her people gathered to the machines' mournful song.

There's partial truth in the Nora's myth of All-Mother and the Metal Devil, even the Faithless ones could be some warped idea of the Old Ones and their war machines. That makes me wonder if there's some truth in this tale as well. Maybe a person, changed by machines, their codes running through her head, making her...part of a network, as Sylens would call it. Is that the shared machine song that the Banuk speak of?

I soon met Laulai, who I heard lamenting the loss of a place called Deep Din. She told me of it—an Old World ruin and musical instrument, capable of carrying resonant sound through its pipes below the basin. She said the place had been flooded after a sudden deluge caused the river to overflow. No rain, but the water must have come from somewhere. I'm doubtful that the place was intended to be an instrument. If the building is beneath a river it could have served as irrigation of some kind. I should take a look; might be some useful data or parts down there. I'd like to hear Laulai play the pipes, too. The place seems to mean everything to her, across generations of her family.

Next I climbed the scaffolding against a flat cliff side, shielding the village from the worst of the elements. Paintings stamped the rock face in yellows, reds and blues. At the top, working on her latest piece, I met Sekuli.

She told me about Banuk artistry. The paintings are calls to the machine spirits, sort of like prayers. Sekuli grew tired of tracing over the same old marks in Ban-Ur, wanted to create something of her own—a call to the tribe, a new story for a shifting, dangerous age. Something that the snows would wash away someday when its time was past, not something to be retraced for the sake of tradition. She was seeking new pigments to set her pieces apart. I agreed to help. I'll keep a lookout for deposits clinging to the salt pools of the Cut.

There was one such place just north of the village, Banuk gathered at its edges to scrape the pigments free and grind them into dye. A Shaman there called me over to him, remarking on my override module. He recognised the 'blue light' within it. I suppose he's not too far off—the device allows me to alter the...harmony of the machine song, as the Shamans say. He told me of a ruin to the far north holding the bodies of metal birds, each with a rail to strengthen my spear. Whatever he's planning, he didn't want to give any details. I've got no reason to believe he's set me a trap or anything—seems that most Shamans are secretive so as to protect the myth of their 'unique' powers. I can see where Sylens got it from.

If he can improve my spear, I'm willing to salvage the part. Might even be worth the trip.

Mountains looming ahead. It's only getting colder. The wildlife in this region is strange—I guess its blocked from the southern lands by the tall ridge I climbed. White goats, badgers, squirrels, owls—all creatures my Focus could identify without having to learn the names from elsewhere. I suppose they had the same names back in ancient times.

I came across a Carja encampment along the trail. There was even a Sun Priest with them, though none of the outlanders seemed eager to speak to me. Why are they here? Maybe to express apologies and grant reparations to the Banuk, as Irid did for the Nora? If so, I don't rate their chances highly. From what I've learnt of the Banuk so far, they'll do worse than throw fruit.

I came across Naltuk by following the river north, just as Burgrend said. He was watching a huge mechanical tower, shaped almost like a flower spewing violent pollen into the air that clung to the machines, its waves of light rippling outward. The machines patrolled the area, protecting the tower like a Cauldron. They were stronger, their armour scored dark, as if coated in something. This is worse than the Scarabs' corruption. I need to get to the bottom of it before it spreads.

Naltuk wouldn't tell me where to find Ourea. Typical. If words wouldn't do it, deeds it was. I crept past the machines to survey the tower. Sure enough, I could override it. Same language, same source; I joined it to my Focus network. I'm getting the hang of these strange new terms. Once overridden, the tower let out a pulse of blue shock, much like a Tallneck. I took out the Longleg and its league of Scrappers, first tying down the larger machine and settings off its power cells, then picking off the Scrappers from above, turning them brittle with my frost sling.

Naltuk was far more forthcoming after that, directing me northwards to the Shaman's path, some sort of rite of passage for aspirant Shamans of the tribe. Ourea was at the very peak, beyond the trial path, inside some sort of ruin on the mountain. Since it's a rite of passage, there were certain rules and rituals surrounding the ordeal, Naltuk said. Rules I would have to adhere to. There must be some other way up the mountain, but it wouldn't do to get on the Banuk's bad side, particularly Ourea's. Seems she's the only one who can give me answers. So, that's how I ended up running the trial of an prospective Shaman.

I got myself a mount and rode on, meeting the path's keeper at the gates of the climb. I was given the garb of a Shaman and the paint of an aspirant.

The clothes were scant in the cold and the paint was thick over my lips, kept getting it on my teeth. The things I do for truth. I took the mountain path on foot and entered a frozen cavern blazing with blue.

Lanterns and chimes marked the way through as the cavern twisted off into many ice-slick dead ends and spiral passages.

A couple of Stalkers patrolled further on, infected by the Daemon. I doubt they were an intended part of the trial, or this Shaman's path would be a death sentence for most who attempted it. I took them out by tearing off their canons, tying them down, barraging each with frost and finishing them with spear and bow. Then I broke out into the afternoon light.

Lots of climbing and running under streams of water so cold it burned. It's a beautiful area though. Lots of long, glacial lakes and waterfalls of half slush, half glass shards.

Starting to struggle in the cold. As I slipped on a ledge, the falling stones attracted a machine—something new, huge, and teeming with the Daemon's purple rot. It, and the tower bolstering its strength, stood between me and the next pass of the climb. The snow was falling thick. I knew I wouldn't last long out here.

I managed to override the tower before the machine saw me, but the shock pulse didn't damage it much. I slew hardpoints as fast as I could nock them, first targeting the frost unit on its belly, then piercing it as much as I could while it was brittle—though the frost didn't bother it much. My usual strategy wouldn't help me here. I took out the sacks on its shoulders next, dodging its swiping claws and shards of ice slung at me like spears. As soon as it was down, the danger wasn't over, as the sweat froze on my skin and each breath rasped out dragging hot barbs in my throat. I pressed on.

Thankfully, the end was soon in sight, and I harvested a shard of Bluegleam from the frozen Stormbird at the trail's end. I suppose I could've salvaged as much as I could carry, enough to buy warm furs, but again, best to respect the tribe's laws until I have what I need.

My climb wasn't quite over—a few more risky jumps between rusted metal platforms before I made it to the door to Ourea's secret mountain retreat.

Some warmth to be found inside, but not much of it. Time to press on...and hope Ourea has a fire burning.

[networkbloger]

Getting Started with Network Design 🧠🌐

#coding#programming#orhanergun#webdev

Are you building a scalable and secure network for the first time? Here's a beginner-friendly guide to get you started with network design fundamentals.

🧩 What Is Network Design? Network design is the process of planning the structure of a computer network—whether it's for a small office, a campus, or a global enterprise. It involves identifying business needs, selecting hardware/software, and defining how devices will communicate.

Think of it as an architect’s blueprint—only for data, not buildings.

🧱 Core Components of a Network Before diving into design, it’s important to know what makes up a network:

Routers: Connect different networks together.

Switches: Connect devices within the same network.

Firewalls: Protect your network from unauthorized access.

Access Points: Allow wireless devices to connect to the network.

Cabling or Wireless Links: Physical or radio-based communication paths.

🗺️ Step-by-Step: Designing a Basic Network Here’s a simplified roadmap to start designing a small to medium-sized network:

Define Requirements Ask:

How many users or devices will connect?

What are the performance needs? (e.g., speed, uptime)

Are there remote or mobile users?

What applications will run on this network?

Create a Network Topology Choose a logical layout:

Star topology: Common and simple (e.g., one central switch).

Mesh topology: High redundancy (used in critical systems).

Hybrid: A mix of both, which is common in larger setups.

Tip: Use tools like draw.io or Cisco Packet Tracer to visualize your design.

Select Hardware and IP Schema Choose devices based on your budget and needs:

Cisco, Juniper, MikroTik (enterprise)

TP-Link, Ubiquiti (SMBs)

Plan IP addressing:

Use private IP ranges (e.g., 192.168.1.0/24)

Avoid IP conflicts using DHCP or static planning.

Add Security Layers Firewalls, VLANs, and ACLs (Access Control Lists)

Enable port security on switches

Use VPNs for remote access

Plan for Scalability and Redundancy Design with future growth in mind

Consider redundant links and failover strategies (e.g., dual routers)

🧪 Test Your Design Use simulation tools:

Cisco Packet Tracer

GNS3

EVE-NG

Before deploying a real network, simulate traffic, check for bottlenecks, and validate security.

🛠️ Tools to Help You Design Tool Purpose Cisco Packet Tracer Network simulation SolarWinds IPAM IP address management Wireshark Network traffic analysis draw.io Network diagrams

📌 Final Thoughts Network design is more than just connecting wires—it's about planning for performance, security, and growth. Whether you’re building a home lab or laying out an enterprise infrastructure, starting with a solid design can save you from major headaches later.

If you're just getting started, experiment, document everything, and stay curious. 💡

[igotsnothing]

📩 Simblr question of the day: What is your favorite community lot type to build or visit? @simblr-question-of-the-day

Hi friend! This is a great question! I am a crappy builder, but when I build libraries or book stores, I often like the results. I also like to play with small spaces- many of the apartments in San Myshuno are my favorites because I can play with the space and not worry about landscaping and outside stuff (city girl here all the way + I am kinda lazy).

When I do play the game, I send my sims out to socialize- clubs, parks, bars with musical performances...Anywhere they can meet more sims and expand their social networks. I like downloading spaces more talented folks put together and I am IN LOVE with this build by @lesmana-enterprise-ltd because it's so, so CLEVER and cool and...such a city landmark, come on!

[miightcontrcls]

❝ you have a nice smile, has anyone ever told you that before? ❞ / padmé , @famufataru | for muses that are getting to know each other | accepting

Attending an international gala was something that Vergil dreaded. It was bad enough that he was a little close to his parents' home, and the last thing he wanted to do was strategize about expanding Sparda Enterprises. Usually, most people enjoyed the European countries. The food, the scenery, and sometimes even the people; however, as quickly as he arrived, he wanted to leave, just in case someone would spot him and make a call to his father. It was bad enough that he had been dodging family gatherings, but his social battery was draining by the second, the longer he lingered in the room. 

Every so often, he'd adjust his tie, clear his throat, and make small talk. The sound of the orchestra playing their instruments drew his attention for a moment. The way the string instruments filled the room, Vergil had excused himself from a pointless conversation to admire the group that played. Some executives that he was familiar with recognized them, and it was those select few that he actually got along with better than others. As they talked briefly and admired the piece that the orchestra was playing, a faint smile graced Vergil's face as he held the champagne glass in his hand. 

He stood tall and confident as he watched the performers. The way they closed their eyes, leaned, and swayed. For those moments, Vergil believed he was alone in the room. Closing his eyes, he tried to find a moment of peace, tuning out the surrounding noise and purely focused on the music at hand. However, those moments of peace were interrupted when he heard the sound of a female voice. 

Opening his eyes, he looked over to his side and then down to see an elegantly dressed woman. When she gave him a compliment, his brow raised at her briefly before he brought his attention back to the orchestra once more. ❝ You would be the first. ❞ Vergil replied softly, maybe it was out of spite, but he dropped the smile he once wore and brought the champagne towards his lips to take a sip. It was rare to receive compliments without the other person wanting something in return. What was this woman's intentions with him? Did she too want to have pointless conversations about stocks and bonds, and networking? Perhaps it could have been a good way to distract himself from the thoughts of interacting with his father and mother if had the unfortunate opporunity to be summoned to the Sparda Estate.

Swallowing the liquid that he had taken a sip of from the champagne flute, he inhaled and exhaled softly before turning his attention towards the woman briefly. ❝ The orchestra here is quite talented. ❞ Vergil began to say, before looking over the performers once more. ❝ I have no recollection of the last time I've heard a live performance such as this one. I might have to host my own gala, just to have them play for my own entertainment. ❞

[digitaldetoxworld]

The Importance of Cybersecurity in the Digital Age

 In the 21st century, the rapid evolution of technology has transformed the manner people, corporations, and governments perform. From communication and banking to healthcare and country wide defense, almost every element of contemporary lifestyles now relies upon on virtual platforms and related structures. While this advancement has brought immense blessings, it has additionally delivered extreme dangers in the shape of cyber threats. Cybersecurity—the practice of protecting structures, networks, and statistics from virtual attacks—has emerged as a crucial necessity in these days’s interconnected international. The importance of cybersecurity can't be overstated, because it performs a vital function in safeguarding private statistics, preserving commercial enterprise continuity, retaining country wide safety, and selling believe in digital ecosystems.

Importance of cyber security for students

1. Protection of Personal Information

In these days’s digital panorama, people mechanically percentage non-public records on line—via social media, on line buying, mobile apps, and cloud garage. This records often consists of sensitive info which include names, addresses, telephone numbers, passwords, or even financial or medical statistics. Without right cybersecurity measures, this records is vulnerable to cybercriminals who may additionally use it for identification robbery, fraud, or extortion.

A single records breach can motive irreparable damage to someone's reputation and budget. For instance, cyber attackers can benefit unauthorized access to financial institution accounts, devote tax fraud, or impersonate people to conduct illegal activities. Strong cybersecurity protocols—which includes -component authentication, encryption, and steady password practices—are vital to shield individuals from those threats and ensure their privacy inside the virtual realm.

2. Business Continuity and Economic Impact

For groups, cybersecurity isn't always just a technical difficulty—it's far a center factor of operational balance and threat management. Cyberattacks can lead to big financial losses thru information breaches, machine shutdowns, ransomware demands, and lack of customer trust. According to various reviews, cybercrime is anticipated to cost the global economy over $10 trillion yearly by means of 2025.

Small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) are particularly susceptible because they often lack the sources to put money into sturdy cybersecurity infrastructure. However, even huge corporations are common objectives. High-profile incidents, such as the 2017 Equifax data breach or the 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware assault, display how cyber threats can disrupt critical services and harm public accept as true with.

Effective cybersecurity measures—which includes normal device audits, worker schooling, firewalls, and intrusion detection structures—assist agencies prevent unauthorized get right of entry to, shield intellectual assets, and make sure uninterrupted service transport.

Three. Safeguarding National Security

Cybersecurity is not only a non-public-region problem—it is also a matter of national security. Governments international face persistent cyber threats from opposed countries, terrorist companies, and hacktivist agencies. These entities often goal important infrastructure sectors like strength, transportation, healthcare, and defense to thieve touchy statistics or disrupt vital services.

Cyberwarfare has emerge as a new frontier in global conflicts, with international locations making an investment heavily in cyber skills each for protection and offense. A a success cyberattack on a energy grid, conversation network, or navy system could purpose chaos, economic damage, or even loss of lifestyles. To mitigate such risks, countries must increase comprehensive cybersecurity regulations, foster public-personal partnerships, and build strong cyber protection mechanisms to shield countrywide interests.

4. Increasing Dependence on Technology

With the upward thrust of the Internet of Things (IoT), synthetic intelligence (AI), and cloud computing, the variety of linked gadgets has exploded. From clever houses and wearable tech to self sustaining vehicles and industrial control structures, technology has emerge as deeply embedded in every day existence. While this connectivity offers comfort and performance, it additionally widens the assault surface for cybercriminals.

Every tool related to the internet can doubtlessly serve as an entry point for hackers. Insecure IoT devices, for example, may be hijacked to shape botnets that launch large-scale Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks. As our reliance on virtual infrastructure grows, ensuring the security of those systems will become more and more essential.

Cybersecurity measures ought to evolve along technological innovation to deal with new vulnerabilities and protect customers from rising threats.

5. Protection of Data Integrity and Intellectual Property

Data is the lifeblood of the virtual economic system. Organizations accumulate and analyze large quantities of facts to inform selections, expand merchandise, and gain aggressive blessings. However, if this facts is corrupted, altered, or stolen, it could have severe consequences for both the organization and its stakeholders.

For industries inclusive of finance, healthcare, and research, keeping information integrity is essential. A cyberattack that manipulates scientific statistics, as an example, can endanger patients’ lives. Similarly, the theft of highbrow belongings, along with change secrets and techniques or proprietary algorithms, can bring about misplaced revenue and reputational harm.

Implementing robust cybersecurity regulations guarantees that data remains accurate, steady, and on hand most effective to authorized users. Techniques consisting of records encryption, get entry to manipulate, and regular backups are vital for shielding digital belongings and maintaining believe.

6. Regulatory Compliance and Legal Responsibilities

Governments and regulatory bodies have added numerous legal guidelines and requirements to compel groups to adopt strong cybersecurity practices. Examples consist of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) within the European Union, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) inside the United States, and India’s Information Technology Act.Failure to comply with these guidelines can lead to extreme penalties, complaints, and loss of business possibilities. Organizations are legally and ethically obligated to protect customer information and respond swiftly to breaches. Cybersecurity performs a primary position in ensuring compliance, dealing with chance, and demonstrating responsibility to stakeholders.

7. Building Trust within the Digital Ecosystem

In an era wherein virtual interactions dominate private, professional, and commercial exchanges, agree with is a essential forex. Users must feel assured that their statistics is safe and that systems will paintings reliably and securely. Cybersecurity is the foundation of that accept as true with.

When users revel in common security breaches, phishing scams, or facts leaks, their self belief in virtual structures diminishes. This no longer most effective affects man or woman conduct however also can have widespread implications for e-trade, on-line banking, far off work, and digital governance.

Investing in cybersecurity facilitates foster a secure and sincere virtual surroundings, encouraging innovation and allowing extra humans to take part inside the virtual economic system.

[mitchipedia]

AI requires massive investment in cloud infrastructure, skills, and compliance strategies. Enterprises are balancing performance, cost, and risk as they deploy AI across cloud and on-premises environments. Our new Fierce Network Research report covers how successful enterprises are deploying infrastructure for AI. My latest on Fierce Network.

And get the report.

[saintmeghanmarkle]

Meghan knows she's NOT in control ... by u/Lil-Mismuffet

Meghan knows she's NOT in control ... ... which is why she constantly needs to say she is.Like Scott Rouse and his insights very much. This morning was the first time I've really listed to Kinsey Schofield, other than a few times she appeared as a guest commentator on another program ... and I really appreciated her delving into Meghan Markle's performance on a recent podcast without exaggeration or gratuitous insults ... and with evenhandedness. Their take on her narcissism was insightful.With that in mind, Meghan Markle may be "CEO" of As ever ... but I don't believe she is involved in any way other than the role of "promoter". Issues like mixed messaging (especially in matters such as product development and supply chain) occur because she simply has no idea what is happening.I fully believe Netflix became Meghan Markle's "business partner" with the proviso that Snow Commerce (Netflix's own enterprise provider) would create ... and operate "As ever." It is Snow Commerce's business model to create program strategy, site and product creation/sourcing.I was tempted to go so far as to say the deliberate short inventory for the initial launch was pitched to Netflix as a way to limit risk exposure if it tanked ... coupled with the ability to spin it as an unprecedented success if it didn't. But now, I'm not so certain. Snow Commerce is owned by Printful ... an on-demand printing and drop-shipping company. Many (most?) of Snow's client sites are selling fandom merch ... sports ... TV shows/networks ... automotive brands ... gaming and the like. Product lines like these have planned obsolescence. Limited inventory is indicative of selling out seasonally, by design. It is also more sustainable if sales flag (such as a show being canceled or other loss of interest). It makes me wonder if Netflix invested a limited amount and authorized this rollout believing (hoping?) it would be a one and done. Or, perhaps it's as simple as faux "elevated" pantry items are just not in Snow's wheelhouse?Regardless of the backstory ... with the exception of some jargon from her comms team du jour, I don't think Meghan Markle has any knowledge ... or say ... about her lifestyle brand. post link: https://ift.tt/7xAkLmK author: Lil-Mismuffet submitted: June 28, 2025 at 05:39PM via SaintMeghanMarkle on Reddit disclaimer: all views + opinions expressed by the author of this post, as well as any comments and reblogs, are solely the author's own; they do not necessarily reflect the views of the administrator of this Tumblr blog. For entertainment only.