#Short-tail keyword

[technogadgetofficial]

Want More Traffic in 2025? These 18 SEO Techniques Actually Work

Boost Rankings and Organic Reach: Must-Use SEO Techniques for 2025

Want to boost your website’s organic traffic and climb higher in Google search results? In today’s fast-changing SEO landscape, it's more important than ever to stay ahead with strategies that are tested, refined, and aligned with the latest algorithm updates. Successful SEO in 2025 means continuously adapting and experimenting to maintain strong visibility in search engine results.

In this post, we’ll dive into the most powerful and up-to-date SEO techniques of 2025—sharing practical, proven tips to increase your online reach, drive consistent traffic, and grow your brand presence organically.

Take a look at the diagram below to see the key focus areas every SEO plan should cover this year.

Short Summary

● Master intent-driven keyword research to align your content with what users are truly searching for—leading to stronger SEO performance and higher visibility.

● Leverage on-page SEO, user experience (UX), and search intent to not only boost rankings but also increase engagement and drive more website conversions.

● Continuously monitor results to fine-tune your SEO strategy, track performance, and maintain strong positions in the search results over time.

Read More: How to write a good blog using all SEO techniques

Finding the Right Keywords for Maximum Visibility

An effective SEO strategy starts with understanding what people are searching for and why.

To succeed, you need to find the right keywords—phrases your audience is actually using on search engines. This means doing proper keyword research to discover high-performing terms and topics. Once you know what to target, you can create content that matches user intent and ranks well in Google and other search engines.

It’s also important to know how search engines judge your content. They look for signs of expertise, authority, and trust (E-E-A-T). That’s why choosing the right keywords, using trusted SEO tools, and understanding how search engines read your content is essential for long-term success.

Why Keywords Still Matter in SEO

Keywords play a key role in improving your website’s SEO. They help search engines understand what your content is about and match it with what users are searching for.

Long-tail keywords—which are longer, more specific phrases—are especially useful. These keywords often face less competition and bring more targeted traffic to your website.

To get the best results, it's important to place these keywords smartly. Use them in URLs, image alt text, and throughout your content—but avoid overusing them, as keyword stuffing can hurt your rankings.

Backlinks and internal linking are also important parts of SEO. When adding internal links, always use clear and relevant anchor text. This not only helps users navigate your site easily but also helps search engines understand which pages are most important.

How to Align Your Content with User Search Intent

To create content that ranks well and truly meets user needs, it’s important to understand how Google works—especially how it uses algorithms, crawling, indexing, and user intent. Knowing what users are trying to achieve when they search on Google helps you craft content that matches their expectations and goals.

Pay close attention to how people phrase their searches—the words they use, the order, and the context. This helps search engines understand what the user really wants, so your content can align with that intent more effectively.

Tools like Google Search Console are very helpful for this. They show you the actual search terms people use to find your site. Also, features like "People Also Ask" and "Related Searches" in the search results can give valuable clues about user intent. Studying how questions are grouped or how users move from one query to another can help you build better, more relevant content.

Keyword Research Tools

To discover high-performing keywords and understand your competition, you can use tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Google Keyword Planner. These tools help you find keywords that people are searching for and show how competitive those keywords are.

For example, SEMrush not only helps improve your site’s rankings but also shows which keywords are bringing in traffic for your competitors.

You can also do a keyword gap analysis using these tools. This means finding keywords that your competitors rank for—but you don’t. It’s a great way to uncover new keyword opportunities and grow your organic traffic more effectively.

Improving Content Performance with On-Page SEO

Optimizing on-page elements is a key part of improving your website’s visibility in search results and enhancing the user experience. By focusing on areas like page titles, meta descriptions, header tags, images, and featured snippets, you help both users and search engines easily understand your content. These elements also contribute to your site’s Core Web Vitals, which are important for overall performance.

A well-optimized landing page doesn’t just rank higher—it also attracts more visitors and keeps them engaged. This leads to better traffic, lower bounce rates, and higher satisfaction for your users.

Boosting CTR with Optimized Titles & Meta Descriptions

Title tags are essential HTML elements that define the name of a webpage. They appear in the browser tab and are shown as the clickable headline in Google’s search results (SERPs).

A strong title tag should include your primary keyword or keyword phrase, accurately describe the page content, and be unique and engaging. A well-crafted title not only helps improve your search engine rankings but also increases your click-through rate (CTR) by attracting more user attention.

Meta descriptions are short summaries that appear below the title tag in search results. They briefly describe what the page is about and help users decide whether to click.

While meta descriptions aren’t a direct ranking factor, they play a big role in encouraging clicks. A clear, compelling description can lead to better traffic and improved performance in SERPs.

To optimize your meta descriptions:

● Keep them under 150 characters

● Include your main keyword

● Focus on clarity and value to the reader

Header Tags

Header tags are HTML elements like <h1> to <h6> that help organize the content of a webpage. They make it easier for both search engines and users to understand the structure of your content.

Use <h1> for your main page title (only once), and then use <h2>, <h3>, etc., for subheadings in a proper order. This helps give your content a clear flow and hierarchy.

Adding keywords in header tags can improve your on-page SEO. But make sure the headers are short, relevant, and not stuffed with keywords.

Proper use of header tags helps Google understand what each section of your page is about. This can improve your rankings, make your content more visible in search results, and increase clicks to your website.

Optimizing Images for Better SEO and Speed

Optimizing images is an important part of improving your website’s speed, user experience, and search engine rankings.

To do this, you should compress images so they load faster, use descriptive file names, and include targeted keywords in the image alt text. This helps your images appear in Google Images and also improves your chances of ranking higher in search results.

Alt text is especially important. It tells search engines what the image is about and can increase your visibility in image search. When used correctly, image optimization can also boost your overall SEO performance and deliver a better return on your search marketing efforts.

Writing AI Content That Connects Like a Human

As AI tools like ChatGPT are widely used for content creation, keeping the content sounding natural and human has become a real challenge. That’s where AI humanizer tools are useful. These tools help rewrite or polish AI-generated text so it sounds more natural and less robotic.

When combined with tools for checking grammar and originality, AI humanizers can greatly improve the readability and trust of your content. This not only helps your SEO content connect better with readers but also keeps it relevant for search engines.

Improving Website Experience for Users

A great user experience (UX) is essential for improving your rankings on Google and other search engines. It also plays a big role in keeping visitors happy. When your website is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate, users are more likely to stay longer and interact with your content.

Good UX doesn't just help with SEO—it can also lead to higher engagement, more page views, and better conversion rates. Simply put, when your website works well for users, it also works better for search engines.

Site Speed

Improving your site’s speed—especially page loading time—is crucial for both better user experience and higher rankings in search results. You can boost page speed by compressing images, using browser caching, and reducing the number of HTTP requests your site makes.

A faster website not only helps you rank higher on Google but also keeps visitors engaged. When pages load quickly, users are more likely to stay, explore, and convert—leading to better overall performance for your site.

Mobile Usability and Smooth Site Navigation

With more people browsing on mobile devices, it’s essential that your website is mobile-friendly. Use responsive design, improve loading speed, and focus on user experience across all screen sizes to meet the needs of mobile users.

A mobile-optimized site not only improves search engine rankings but also attracts more organic traffic and leads to better user satisfaction and conversions.

In addition, clear and simple navigation helps users find what they need quickly. A well-structured site with easy-to-use menus improves both user experience and SEO performance.

When your website is easy to browse and well-organized, visitors stay longer, explore more pages, and are more likely to take action—boosting engagement and overall satisfaction.

Smart Strategies for Building Quality Backlinks

High-quality backlinks play a key role in improving your website’s domain authority and search engine rankings. You can earn strong backlinks through strategies like guest blogging, the skyscraper technique, and fixing or replacing broken links on other sites.

A well-written blog post combined with a strong backlink profile can help your content rank higher on Google, drive more organic traffic, and improve the overall quality and visibility of your website.

Guest Blog Post

Guest blogging is a smart way to earn quality backlinks and increase your online visibility. By writing useful, high-quality content for trusted websites in your industry, you can build your authority and attract new visitors to your own site.

To succeed with guest blogging, focus on three key steps:

Find relevant and reputable websites that accept guest posts.

Create valuable, well-written content that matches their audience.

Optimize your post for SEO and promote it through your social media channels to reach a wider audience.

Broken Link Building

Broken link building is a smart SEO technique where you find broken (non-working) links on other websites and suggest your own content as a replacement. This helps the website fix their broken links while you earn a valuable backlink.

The process involves searching for broken external or internal links on websites in your niche and then contacting the site owners with a relevant and helpful link from your own content.

This strategy is a powerful way to increase your website’s visibility, gain quality backlinks, and improve your domain authority.

If you're unsure which link-building method is best for your site, consider getting help from SEO specialists—whether that’s a freelancer, agency, or backlink service. They can guide you in choosing the most effective strategies for stronger results.

How to Power Your SEO with Smart Content Marketing

Content marketing involves creating and sharing useful, relevant content to attract and connect with your target audience. When you publish high-quality blog posts, in-depth cornerstone content, and shareable pieces, you can drive more traffic to your website and improve your search engine rankings.

A strong content marketing strategy can help boost brand awareness, increase user engagement, and lead to more conversions.

Blogging

Consistently publishing useful and engaging content is key to targeting the right keywords and offering real value to your audience. For example, if you're writing an educational blog around the keyword "write my dissertation," high-quality content will play a major role in helping you reach and engage your target readers.

To succeed, make sure your blog post is optimized for SEO and actively shared on social media. This helps attract more organic traffic and boosts your visibility in search engine results (SERPs).

Effective blogging involves three main steps: doing research, creating helpful content, and optimizing it for search engines. When done well, it can build trust, grow your audience, and support your business or academic goals.

Essential Content That Builds Authority

Cornerstone content refers to detailed, valuable content that covers important topics deeply and thoroughly. It forms the foundation of your website’s overall content strategy.

When you create well-researched, unique, and informative cornerstone content, it helps establish your website as a trusted source in your niche. It also supports your site’s performance by improving Core Web Vitals and overall user experience.

Over time, strong cornerstone content can lead to higher search engine rankings and attract more consistent traffic to your most important pages.

Shareable Content

Creating shareable content helps boost your online visibility by encouraging social media shares and attracting valuable backlinks.

To succeed, your content must connect with your target audience. It should be informative, relevant, and emotionally engaging. Formats like infographics, videos, and well-written articles are especially effective in capturing attention and sparking shares.

When your content resonates with readers, they’re more likely to share it—bringing in more organic traffic and helping other pages on your site gain visibility too.

How Social Media Can Grow Your Website Reach

Social media plays a powerful role in growing your online presence and improving SEO. By encouraging content sharing, optimizing your social media profiles, and working with influencers, you can increase your brand’s visibility and drive more organic traffic to your website.

A well-planned social media strategy can lead to higher user engagement, better conversion rates, and overall business growth. When done right, social media doesn’t just support your SEO—it helps build long-term trust and connection with your audience.

Social Sharing

Encouraging social sharing is a key part of building a strong online presence. Adding share buttons to your blog posts and actively promoting your content on social media can help increase its reach and drive more organic traffic to your website.

A strong social media presence also helps improve brand awareness, keeps your audience engaged, and can even support better search rankings in the long run.

However, for some industries—like legal or professional services—organic social sharing may have less impact. In these cases, using targeted social media ads can be a more effective way to reach potential clients and grow online visibility.

Social Media Profiles 

Optimizing your social media profiles with the right keywords and linking them to your website can increase your online visibility and help attract more traffic.

Staying active and consistent on social platforms builds trust and credibility with your audience. Over time, this can lead to higher engagement, stronger relationships, and better conversion rates for your business.

Adapting to SEO Algorithm Updates for Better Rankings

In the fast-changing world of SEO, it's important to stay informed about the latest trends and search engine algorithm updates to maintain strong rankings.

By regularly tracking changes in Google’s search results and keeping up with trusted SEO news sources, you can quickly adjust your strategy. This helps ensure your website stays competitive and visible in search engine results pages (SERPs).

Google Algorithm Updates

Google updates its search algorithm around 500–600 times each year, which makes it important to stay informed about these changes.

By keeping an eye on Google’s updates, you can better understand how they affect your website’s search performance and adjust your SEO strategy when needed.

Staying updated allows you to make smart changes that help you maintain or improve your rankings in search engine results.

Adjusting Your SEO Strategy to Algorithm Updates

Updating your SEO strategy to match changing search algorithms and user behavior is essential for staying at the top of search results and attracting steady organic traffic.

By regularly doing keyword research and staying informed about the latest SEO trends and algorithm updates, you can identify what needs improvement and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Consistently reviewing and improving your SEO tactics helps your website remain competitive, visible, and effective in search engine results.

Tracking and Measuring SEO Success

Tracking and evaluating your SEO performance is crucial to understand what’s working and where you can improve. Tools like Google Analytics help you monitor organic traffic, user behavior, ad performance, and conversion rates.

These insights allow you to adjust your strategy to maintain or improve your search rankings over time.

Having access to accurate data means you can make smarter, well-informed decisions that keep your SEO efforts effective and aligned with your goals.

Google GA4 Analytics

Google’s GA4 Analytics is a powerful tool for tracking and analyzing your SEO efforts. It helps you monitor important metrics like organic traffic, user engagement, and conversion rates, giving you a clear picture of how your SEO strategies are performing.

By regularly reviewing this data, you can identify what’s working, spot areas for improvement, and make smarter decisions to optimize your website for better search engine performance.

Final Thoughts on SEO Success

In conclusion, staying up to date with the latest SEO strategies and trends is essential for growing your website’s organic traffic and improving its search engine rankings.

To achieve lasting success online, focus on the following key areas:

Conducting strong keyword research

Optimizing your on-page SEO elements

Enhancing the user experience

Earning high-quality backlinks

Using social media to expand your reach

Staying informed about algorithm updates

Regularly tracking and analyzing your SEO performance

Together, these efforts will strengthen your online visibility, grow your audience, and help your website stay competitive in today’s digital world.

FAQ:

What is the most important part of SEO in 2025?

The most important part of SEO in 2025 is understanding user intent and aligning content to match that intent. Search engines are focusing more on delivering helpful, relevant content that directly answers what users are searching for. This includes using the right keywords, improving content quality, and ensuring a smooth user experience.

2. How does AI affect SEO strategies?

AI tools like ChatGPT can help with content creation, keyword research, and topic planning. However, it's important to humanize AI-generated content to make it engaging and original. Always review AI-written content for clarity, accuracy, and tone before publishing, and check it with originality tools.

3. What are cornerstone pages in SEO?

Cornerstone pages are in-depth, high-value content pieces that cover a broad topic thoroughly. These pages serve as the foundation of your website’s content structure and should be internally linked from related blog posts. They help improve site structure, authority, and SEO performance.

4. How do I find the best keywords for SEO?

Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush to find keywords with high search volume and low competition. Focus on long-tail keywords that are more specific and match user search intent for better rankings and higher-quality traffic.

5. How often should I update my SEO strategy?

You should review and update your SEO strategy every 3–6 months or whenever there is a major algorithm update. Regular updates keep your site competitive, aligned with search engine changes, and responsive to shifts in user behavior.

6. What is on-page SEO and why is it important?

On-page SEO involves optimizing elements on your website—like title tags, meta descriptions, header tags, internal links, and content—to help search engines understand your page. It’s important because it directly affects how your pages rank and how users engage with your content.

7. How do backlinks help SEO?

Backlinks from reputable sites signal to search engines that your content is trustworthy and valuable. High-quality backlinks improve your domain authority, increase organic visibility, and help your pages rank higher in SERPs.

8. What is the role of user experience (UX) in SEO?

Search engines now consider UX signals like page speed, mobile-friendliness, easy navigation, and low bounce rates when ranking pages. A positive user experience keeps visitors on your site longer and encourages conversions, both of which boost SEO performance.

9. How do I optimize for voice search?

To optimize for voice search, use natural language in your content, target question-based keywords, and provide concise answers. Focus on conversational content that mimics how people speak, especially for featured snippets.

10. What are Core Web Vitals and why do they matter?

Core Web Vitals are a set of metrics (like loading speed, interactivity, and visual stability) that measure the user experience on your site. Google uses these as a ranking factor, so improving them helps your site perform better in search results.

[ins3llc]

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[copypronto]

Deciphering Keyword Research: How To Do It

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[crspl7tecnologies]

Differences Between Long Tail and Short Tail Keywords?

Learn about the differences between long tail and short tail keywords in this informative article. Discover how each type of keyword can impact your SEO strategy and help you reach your target audience more effectively.

[all-purpose-dish-soap]

59 / 3.4k / part 3 of shark mermen Gaz and Soap with human!reader <3

kinktober keywords: dubcon, monster mermen, monsterfucking, teratophilia, overt predator/prey dynamics, hypnosis/hypnokink, praise

...

"You gonna behave?"

You bite your lip and keep your arms tightly wound around your upper half. "I thought I was."

The movement catches Gaz's eyes. They darken. "Don't do that."

"Do what?"

He reaches out, catching your bottom lip between his thumb and forefinger. He pulls it gently lower and lets it snap back into place, and your lip stings with saltwater. "That."

You squirm in his hold.

Gaz keeps his grip, but lets you keep moving. His gaze drops again to your lips and keeps getting lower until it's obvious that he's staring at your neck. Even if he weren't a predator sensitive to the quick heartbeat and rushing blood of startled prey, he'd see the nerves all over you. He draws closer.

"You're so small," he murmurs.

You press back, but it does no good.

"And weak," Gaz continues. The clawtip of his index finger presses into the damp flesh of your stomach. "I could crack you open like the shell of a clam. Can I touch you?"

Before you can answer, Soap's hands wander up your legs again. You tense. Gaz's tail tightens under you in response.

"Bit late to ask if you can touch her," Soap says in their mer-tongue.

Gaz ignores him. "Stay still," he murmurs, his tail tightening. Not quite enough to crush anything, but enough to restrict more of your movement. "I won't hurt you."

As Soap makes a grab at one of your wrists, the coldness of your skin and the quickness of your pulse sends a small thrill down his spine.

You try to still your movements and steady your breath. It seems like the more you squirm and protest, the more it snags their interest. You're pretty sure by now they're not going to eat you, but their interest in you has taken an unmistakably carnal tilt.

"See?" Gaz says. "You can be good." He drags his claw lightly over your belly again, and you feel all the muscles of your midsection tense. If it weren't for him squeezing you so firmly, you'd almost be lifted out of the water.

"Good," he murmurs again.

"What do you want to see? I already showed you my legs."

"Everything else."

It's a blunt, straightforward answer. The way Gaz says it seems almost disinterested—matter-of-fact—but his gaze is fixed intently on your belly. He wants to see every inch of you, the softness and the curves and the hollow spots and the sharp dips.

Soap's hands find your waist, and he pulls you closer in in a way that forces you to arch your back, bough toward him, and spread your legs wider over Gaz's tail.

You steal a glance down at the glass-sharp rocky sand and the cold waves rising in. "Here?"

They don't bother to answer. Gaz shifts your hips up his tail, contorting you further. Soap stares openly down at your tits through your wet shirt as he drags his massive hands down your thighs and back up in an exploratory motion.

Gaz's scales push up against the crotch of your shorts. Your brain skips. This can't be happening right now and you can't be feeling kind of hot under the collar about it. No, nah, nope.

You plant your hands against Soap's shoulders and push him back. "I said not here! Take me somewhere nice." No, that's not quite right. "Somewhere private."

nsfw ⬇

Gaz digs his fingers into your hips and pushes you further up his tail. The movement grinds you into him like he's starting to feel you get warm and wet.

"Yeah?" Soap purrs, letting you push him away. There's no way you could throw him off unless he lets you, but he does. "Where d'you want us to take you, little human?"

"Somewhere soft and dry."

The two merman trade looks with one another. Gaz tilts his head down at you and narrows his dark eyes. "I know a place."

You swallow. "You do?"

"Mmhm." His tail shifts beneath you. "Have you ever seen a merman's bed?"

"No..."

Gaz’s tone drops to something just above a murmur. "It's carved out of sloping reef rock and lined with the softest, sun-warmed sand. Perfect to lie in."

Despite his attempt to soothe you, Soap's claws catching the hem of your torn shirt make you even more tense. You grab his hand and push it down. A muscle in your jaw jumps with irritation.

Soap stops pushing, but there's a look in his eye that you don't like at all. He knows he's bigger and stronger than you. All he has to do is pull back a little too hard, and he could easily yank you off Gaz's tail and into his own arms instead. He can make you do whatever he wants, and he knows it.

It makes you all the more aware of the strength of his body between your knees. He could pin you down so easily—he could crush you with the sheer size of him—and you'd never be able to do anything about it.

Before either of you makes a move, Gaz growls at Soap in their mer language. Soap's eyes snap up to Gaz's. His face tightens. His hands loosen and slide slowly out from under your shirt.

You watch it happen with an unsteady glare. But now they're watching each other rather than you. It only holds for a moment before Soap pulls his gaze away. He looks almost bored as he lets his hands drift back to your thighs.

"Fine," he murmurs. But the look in his eyes still leaves you with the uneasy feeling that he isn't entirely done with you.

Fine is the only word of it you understand, but you still feel the agitation in their tone and the subtle shifts of muscles in Gaz's back and shoulders against your chest. Still, he seems fine with Soap's hands on you as long as he's not agitating you further.

You look down at Gaz's claws. His grip on you stays tight. He isn't rough, exactly, but his hands are big and his touch is insistent and slightly possessive. His hands drift lazily over your hips, up your ribs, across the tops of your thighs. It feels like he's keeping track of every inch of you he's already felt.

You squeeze your legs together stubbornly when he gets close to your inner thighs.

His grip is like iron. You feel the muscles of his tail working beneath you as he shifts to get you just right again.

"Let me in," he murmurs.

"I don't think that's a good idea."

"And why not?" His hands wander up and down the seam of your legs.

You get the impression that he can smell you getting wet when you when you're squished up close against him like this. Does he think you're putting out crazy pheromones or something? A twinge of shame makes you look away. "Because we're mismatched."

"Mismatched?" He snorts and pulls you forward so you're leaning further back and against his chest. It exposes your neck to him and his eyes darken. "Your kind has a real obsession with categorizing everything, don't you? We can be matched just fine."

"But we're not, like, physically... you know... it would be weird. It's like having sex with an animal."

"I don't think humans are animals," Gaz murmurs. He draws his claws over the outside of your thigh--not causing pain or leaving marks, but stimulating the nerves under your skin with small jolts. "Besides in the literal sense. But then we both are."

You say nothing. His fingertips brush up the backs of your knees, and a shiver of awareness travels all the way down your spine to your toes. His voice is low and soft as he speaks to Soap in their language again. He rubs his thumb in tiny circles on the back of your knee.

If you knew what he was saying, you'd realise that he's telling Soap that you're nervous.

"It would be weird," you say again.

Soap scoffs. "You keep saying that word. Weirrrd," he repeats in a voice edged with disdain and mimicking your accent. "Why does it matter? There's no one else here."

Gaz tilts his head down in an attempt to catch your eye. "You're not even a little bit curious? You humans are always so desperate to know why and how things work. You used to poke and prod us. You're usually curious about stuff like this." His voice drops lower. "About new experiences. What if I told you that this could feel good?"

"It's still wrong." Even as you say it, you're starting to wonder. You're already pretty sure they won't hurt you. They would have already if they didn't care, right? But you can't bear to think about how disgusted people would be if they knew you were seriously considering this.

"You think it's wrong?" Gaz’s voice takes on an edge. "Humans have a lot of strange rules that don't make any sense. Do you really think we're that different?"

"Yeah."

His gaze drops to your lips. "That's what you humans get so wrong. You think everything means something. Rubbish. Sometimes things can just feel good. And this" --he strokes the sensitive skin of your ankle-- "could feel so good. If you let me in, you'll be warm and safe. That’s what you want, yeah? To be looked after?"

"I don't... I don't know."

Gaz hums and rubs your ankle. Your skin is softer than the salt-smoothed calluses of his hands, and your leg is so small. He feels like he would barely have to squeeze to break it in two. "It's okay not to know, you know," he says. "You've been through a lot. Can I tell you more about us?" he asks, voice low and soft. "About our kind?"

His voice seems to soothe your ragged nerves. "I guess so."

"Good human." He leans very close, his mouth against the shell of your ear. His hands tighten on your thighs again. You’re at his fingertips. You’ll be his in no time. "We're not so different. We hunt and we play. We fight and we... enjoy things." He traces his claw along the line of your legs again. "We can feel things other creatures can't. Sounds too quiet for other prey, smells under water, under the salt. We like the smell of other creatures. What do humans like to smell?"

"Um... flowers, I guess. And food. Baked goods."

He huffs a laugh. "What a waste of your senses." He slides his claw along the outside of your calf. "You humans like things to be clean, huh? Nice warm water and soap. So many rules and little rituals with your cleaning."

"Yeah, so?"

"But then you spend half of your time dirtying each other again. Fighting and rutting and making messes. Humans are strange. Your rules get in the way of your senses."

"We need rules to protect ourselves."

"You need rules to limit yourself," Gaz says. "No wonder you act so fragile. If you'd let yourself enjoy things, everything wouldn't seem so dangerous."

Soap watches you steadily. He can smell the way you're reacting as Gaz's voice washes over you and the way you melt slightly every time he touches you.

You huff. "That's easy for you to say."

"Humans keep themselves vulnerable. No claws, no callouses," Gaz says as he runs his free hand over your upper arm. Your skin is so smooth, he can feel the tiny hairs standing up as his hand passes over them. You really are like a seal—all big eyes and soft give everywhere and no bite to you whatsoever. Except your words, maybe. " How do you defend yourself like this? How do you hunt?"

You don't reply.

His hand finds its way into your hair, claws tracing lines over your scalp. "Do you know what it is to hunt by yourself? Taking charge when something catches your interest. Taking things that you want."

"Not really."

"It's thrilling."

"To be stronger and faster?"

"More than that. Feeling another creature's pulse beneath your teeth, hearing the crunch of bone as it gives way. Knowing you've caught your prey." Gaz strokes the hair back from your ear. His voice and fingers send pleasurable tingles down your spine. He pulls you closer to himself as he speaks so you can fully feel his large frame cradled around yours. “We don't have many possessions," he says. "We like having something that's ours."

"Oh."

"And humans are small," he murmurs. "So soft and small." He rubs circles into your scalp, and you feel his voice as much as you hear it. "So warm and pliable. Easy to hold and keep."

You catch Soap grin and realize you've been staring at him.

"See somethin' you like, hen?"

You flush and look away.

Gaz shifts to comfort you. "Don't look away," he murmurs. His big hand comes up and catches your jaw to make you look up at Soap again. "Watch his eyes. Listen to my voice."

You blink at Soap. Your mind feels sluggish. But Soap is nice to look at. And Gaz is nice to listen to. His voice is low and soothing. His hands drift. The fingertips of one hand trace your collarbone and the other strokes the softness of your throat. Your eyelids are a little heavy.

Gaz watches you for a moment before leaning very close. "Good," he whispers, and Soap's eyes darken. "Easy to hold. Just like I said."

You feel the vibrations of his voice in his chest. His voice soothes you so completely that the old legends about sirens enticing humans with their hypnotic voices surfaces briefly in your mind. Then it disappears.

His hand continues, and the soft, slow touches lull you further. Your stress ebbs away grain by grain. It’s replaced by anticipation. He rubs the soft skin of your cheek with the pad of his thumb, and you feel the calluses on his hands.

"That's a good human." He keeps using that low voice to praise you. Soft warmth and anticipation curl low in your belly. "Just keep looking." He slides a hand down your spine and across your lower back. Your muscles and your mind unwind slowly like a fraying rope. "You remember when I was telling you about a merman's bed, yeah?"

"Mm."

"That's good. Now pay attention. I want you to hear what I say. They're comfortable," he murmurs. "Warm and soft, all lined with sand that's been warmed in the sun. Perfect to lay in. To writhe in. To sink into." As if to show you, his hands slide under your wet shirt and press against the small of your back. He rubs the warm softness of your skin, and goosebumps rise where his hands pass over. "Imagine it. Imagine sinking in. Sinking in. Sink with my voice."

Your eyelids droop even more. You're sleepy.

"You're doing so well." Gaz feels how relaxed you are—the tension out of your muscles and how your limbs feel like they're melting into his. "Sink with my voice," he repeats. "You don't need to struggle anymore. Everything's alright. You're safe with us. Just let yourself… drift."

A sweet, heavy, warm softness like sinking into a hot bath. Like sinking into the sand under his hands. He guides you into a light doze and continues stroking your back and murmuring praise, your body growing heavy and lax beneath his warm hands.

"Shh," Gaz says. You're sinking deep. He guides you down into a soft, warm haze full of quiet, soothing sounds. Even Soap is watching you with a soft, rapt interest, not wanting to ruin the moment. They're taking care of you right where you belong. Deep. Safe. Warm. Comforting.

"What do you see in that bed with you?" Gaz murmurs. "One merman? Two?"

"Hmm?"

"Can't think straight, can you? You're so relaxed." He moves so his hands slide around your waist again. He knows you can't escape this time, even if you wanted to. And you look so sweet and soft. He knows you're almost asleep, almost floating away from him. "I know. Keep listening. Can you tell me what you see yet?"

"Blankets."

"That sounds so nice, doesn't it?" Gaz murmurs. His hands shift again, one drifting all the way to the back of your neck. His voice is as quiet and warm and comforting as a blanket over you. "Just sink into my voice. Keep listening. What else is in that bed with you?"

"Stuffed animals."

Gaz laughs, but it's low and soothing. "Like a child has? That's cute. But it's not like you need them."

You huff, your hypnotic trance vaguely disrupted by his words. "You asked me."

"And I got my answer." Gaz's hand slides up your neck to rest on your jaw. He strokes your pulse point again. "You're getting a little too close to falling asleep. You need to stay awake for this."

Soap has drifted closer, his dark eyes watching you. He looks hungry, but Gaz doesn't push you towards him yet. Not while you're so out of it. "Fine, fine." He rubs your neck again, and you feel your muscles melt under the pressure. "What kind of stuffed animal?"

"Hmm..."

Gaz hums back, his voice deep and soothing. Your eyes are already so heavy, your body is so relaxed in his arms. Your breath is slow and steady, and your skin feels warmer to his touch. Gaz can smell the change in your scent, your body's response to him—to all of this.

"I'm curious now." His voice is low and dark against your sensitive ear. "If you're going to have stuffed animals in your bed, I want to know what kind."

"Octopus."

"An octopus?" He murmurs. "So you want something with so many arms to wrap around you? Something tight and big?" He's so close to your ear now that his lips brush it. "You want to be wrapped up and covered and surrounded?"

"Mm... maybe. Yeah."

Your voice is heavy with drowsiness. He keeps you skirting that line between consciousness and sleep. Your body in his arms is puppet-like.

"You want to be surrounded by so many arms. Maybe even pressed against us with no space to move, yeah?" He slides a hand down your stomach.

"Mmhmm."

"Mm. So you want to sink into a nice bed, surrounded by an octopus with its big, plush arms. Surrounded on all sides with soft, soft tentacles that cover you. You want something big and soft and heavy on top of you--resting between your legs and keeping you warm and safe." His hands slide around you again. "Would that make you feel safe and protected?"

You murmur an affirmation.

"And do you feel safe and protected here? Now?"

You murmur another one.

Something like a smile curves Gaz's mouth. It's sweet that you're answering without thinking. "Mm," he hums, and he slides both hands down your thighs. His claws trace little circles on your sensitive skin. "Very good. Hold onto that feeling as you come up, human." Gaz lifts his eyes to Soap's. "We're just curious. We won't hurt you. We just want to see what you feel like. Is that alright?"

"What I feel like?"

Soap looks down at you. You barely open your eyes. Barely even react, even though you can feel his claws grazing your thigh, even though his eyes are dark and his lips parted slightly. Your eyes are so heavy, your brain so slow.

"Mm," Gaz murmurs again, and his chin brushes your ear. "Your skin's soft. Soft and warm. We want to feel you." His hands slide up your chest again, your breath shuddering at their passing, and he holds you up so your back is against his chest but your legs are still spread over his tail. He smiles. You're so close to sleep, but he doesn't want you to miss this. "Shh. You'll see. You just need to let us touch you, okay?"

"Oh." You let your legs slide to the sides of Gaz's tail and into Soap's waiting palms. "Okay."

...

part 1 / part 2 / [part 3] / part 4 / part 5

more Gaz / more Soap / more mer au / masterlist

[thedropsofblood]

Poor little rabbit ♡

Warning: Non-con, saliva as lube (?), human with animal features, language barrier, cream pie, beastiality (?), not proofread

You were gathering herbs in the forest to prepare for dinner, your adorable rabbit ears bounced slightly and your tail twitched by every step you took. Today was a very lucky day! The sky is clear enough to travel freely but not too sunny, the air is perfectly cooled from the rain last night, it's the perfect weather for travelling!

You have managed to find plenty of spices already, your throat is dried from all the steps you took so maybe a little drink won't hurt, right? Following your thoughts, you walk to a drinking river nearby, looking left and right to make sure all the predators are gone before placing the herb basket aside, bending down to take a sip, the refreshing clear water helping to wash away your fatigue.

Then you straightened your back, stretching your torso and deciding to finally go ho- Wait what's that noise? You turn back just in time to spot a man with fox ears and tail heading your way, the fox seemed to have picked you as their meal.

You quickly grab the basket and attempt to rush away (keyword: attempt), just to be pulled back by your arm and pushed down onto the ground by the fox.

You tremble in fear as the fox licks his lips and slides your pants down alongside your underwear, he coats two of his fingers with his saliva before sliding them inside you without warning. Your hands grips onto the grass, panicking internally as you try to escape by kicking your feet. The fox leans in, biting your rabbit tail as his fingers continue to move in and out, you couldn't help but feel embarrassed by this situation, you're a male rabbit! Not a female one!

The fox suddenly pulls his fingers out, cutting your thought process and causing you to jump slightly. The fox begins to unbuckle his pants, you try to yell for the fox to stop but it's clearly useless, you're a rabbit, he's a fox, you can't understand each other.

He aligned his tip with your entrance as his other hand snakes up to hold both of your rabbit ears, after a few short moments, he suddenly thrusts all the way inside, leaving you no time to think about the situation.

His hand moves to your hip to steady your body as he starts to rock his hips, going at a slower pace at first due to how tight you are, it gives you some moments to adjust to his size before he gradually increases his speed, his hand constantly pulling on your ears as a way to keep you away from losing in your thoughts.

He flips you over onto your back, moving your legs over his shoulders before continuing pounding you in a mating press in the same speed, letting out a few grunts and breathing heavily. He leans in and places a kiss on your forehead as a small gift for taking him so well, if you could understand him, he'll be complimenting how good you feel.

The fox finally finishes inside of you with a low groan, catching his breath and pulling out of you, watching as his semen drips down onto the grass. He couldn't help himself but placed a small kiss on your cheek before picking you up in bridal style and taking you somewhere, before your vision goes dark, you could see a faint smile on his face.

[strawbairicake]

hallo Lia, before i say anything else i think i should apologize for taking so long to submit a request for your event—i kept either forgetting or endlessly second-guessing any draft of an ask i came up with because i didn’t want to end up annoying you, i hope you can forgive me :((

since it’s so late i completely understand if you don’t want to write this (especially if you aren’t interested in the idea), but would it be ok for me to request aventurine and a merman/merfolk au? i think it would be interesting to see him attempt (keyword: attempt) to court a human reader, but feel free to change the concept however you like ! thank you in advance, have a great day ♡

part of your world -aventurine x reader (mermaid/merfolk au!)

synopsis: the cute guy that mysteriously came ashore the beach is really intriguing, isn’t he?

warnings: none, it’s pure fluff! might be ooc though, apologies for that!

word count: 498

author’s note: yes the title was from the song from the little mermaid. no, i don’t have any regrets or better title names. anyway, thank you for requesting, Ruu! please don’t hesitate to come say hello or drop a request in my inbox! no beta, we die like my hopes n’ dreams /lh! would love to hear more from you! hopefully this idea fits (and maybe exceeds) your expectations; hope you enjoy! <3

book n’ dash event

tagging: @cmiru

acquiring human legs after having a mermaid tail all your life is quite the flex. that’s what Aventurine thought anyway. he had just washed up to shore when you came running over to him, in quite the panic.

“oh my gosh, are you okay? where did you come from?” you asked as you approached him. and Aventurine felt like he had come down with an ailment: he couldn’t speak, think, move (not that he tried any of these things). he was just frozen. god you were so pretty, did you know that?

“washed… up,” Aventurine replies, somewhat stunned at his lack of being able to form words. you nod, seemingly understanding what he said (you didn’t understand) and trying to give him the benefit of the doubt. you don’t want to overwhelm him, either.

“where are you from?” you asked after a few minutes of silence.

“the ocean. why?”

“okay… how did you get here, friend?” you asked.

friend… such a safe and comforting word. he knows you didn’t slip the word out intentionally. it was a speaking before thinking moment but you didn’t seem to regret or take back the word. 

“i… don’t know. i’m just… here.” he replies. you nod again. 

“i’m (name), nice to meet you. come with me, I’ll help you get on your feet. two more questions, can you understand what i’m saying? and what's your name?” 

“I’m Aventurine, and i can understand you well.”

satisfied with his answer, you help him off the sandy beach, giving him a towel you were carrying earlier. you help him wrap it around his waist and start walking to your apartment, not far from the beach luckily. you both make the short trek back to your home and you let him settle in before overwhelming him with more questions and activities for you to do.

“once you’re comfortable and dressed, we’re going to go to the mall and get you some clothes, okay?” 

“sure, thank you.” 

And so you were off. you headed to the mall, and got to the clothing store for your new friend. you let him pick out whatever he wanted. but before you both left the store, a small pearl bracelet caught his eye. 

“(Name), look,” Aventurine points to the bracelet.

“what’s wrong?” you ask as you see where his finger’s pointing, “oh, the bracelet? we can get it!” and as the nice clerk gets it out of the display and grabs it for you. you check out and head back to your apartment.

“what’s with the interest in the bracelet?” you asked him after he sat down on your couch.

“it’s a sign of loyalty and love in the mermaid language. you’ve also been kind to me.”

your breath hitched, and you gulp a bit nervously, “and?” 

“and even though we’ve just met, i want you to have it.” he says as he pushes the box to you. you think this cute mermaid-turned human is sticking around for a while longer.

©2025 strawbairicake. do not repost, copy, translate, modify, or use for AI.

[sugarrushproductions]

What we didn't see in HH, EP 5

Husker took in a deep breath and tried to stop the tremor in his hands. Tried being the keyword. Angel and Pentious were busy talking to Mimsy, the later complaining about not having another drink.

When he finally felt he could do his job without dropping the bottles he walked into view.

"Well it's about time, pussycat," Mimsy scolded, holding out her empty cup. "What's it gonna take to get some service around here?"

Angel had noted Husker's tremor the moment he came into view. The cat demon was good at keeping it from his hands and his ears, even his wings were as still as possible when moving. The only place he saw it was his tail. As Husk took Mimsy's cup, which he did softer than he needed to, Angel had the sinking feeling that this mood change had something to do with Alastor.

He remembered how Val could sometimes make him feel, how scared he was when....

Angel scratched his neck, looking at his nearly empty drink. His eyes lit up with an idea. One that would have him going back on his word, but at least it would get Husk out of his funk.

"Hey, poor me another too, Whiskers," Angel gave Husk one of his cockiest smirks and let his bedroom eyes shine. Other than a quick flick of one ear, all he got was a quick glance as Husk put down Mimsy's drink.

"Sure thing," was Husk's short reply. Angel shared a worried glance with Pentious when he turned around, but put the look back on when Husk turned around with his new drink. Before he could pull his hand away, Angel put one of his lower ones on it. That got Husk to meet his eyes with a raised eyebrow.

"Thanks, Whiskers." Angel slid his hand further up his arm, getting narrowed eyes in response. "Is there anyway I could... repay you?"

Mimsy scoffed. "This kind of service, it seems he needs to be givin us a repayment."

Husker growled and gave her a glare out of the corner of his eyes. It softened as he felt Angel's grip tighten on his arm. Looking back at him he found nothing of the mask that the spider had just moments before. His pink eyes were filled with annoyance as Mimsy just sipped her drink.

Realization washed over Husker, making him turn his ears back to hide his blush as best he could. He'd been trying to keep them from seeing the darker side of Alastor considering everyone liked him to some extent (and the fact that Alastor would make good on the threat he'd just made). But

Angel saw through it. Of course he would, he knew what it was like. With a small smile, he gently grasped Angel's hand to move it.

"Nothing right now, kid," Husker said, turning around to make sure the heat on his white face wouldn't be see. "Thanks for the offer."

Before Angel could answer, the hotel shook as the front door creaked.

"Mimsy, we know you're in there you lousy bitch!" Someone yelled from outside, the hotel shaking once more.

The bitch in question just winced and ducked to the ground.

Headcannon: Sir Pentious definitely created a defense system after the attack. With or without Vaggie's permission, I don't know.

[badgalsasuke]

Kishimoto for the 2nd Official Databook (April 9, 2005)

I've found the scans for the second official databook which includes a short interview with Kishimoto that came out after the finale of the first part of the manga.

Now is the time for Kishimoto-sensei to speak!! NARUTO. All about "Part 1"

A special interview in which Kishimoto answers questions about the keywords of the concluded "Part 1"!!

"If you put in the effort, you will definitely be recognized!"

―What was the theme?

Kishimoto: The theme of "Part 1"… It's difficult to describe in one word. I wanted to vary the themes as much as possible by changing the characters who grow in each series so that readers wouldn't get bored. When I think about what I've been portraying throughout the series, I think the one thing that comes to mind is "people accepting other people." At first, Naruto is feared and shunned as a boy who has the Nine Tails' Youhan sealed inside him, but he tries his best to be accepted. And the people around him, seeing his feelings, gradually start to recognize him… Naruto's ninjutsu and chakra abilities have improved over time, but I think the biggest change throughout "Part One" is that he gained people who recognized him.

In other words, "Part One" is the story of "Naruto, who wants to be acknowledged," and "the people around him who acknowledge him." However, it wasn't that the people around him acknowledged him because Naruto grew up. In fact, Naruto only grew up in the first chapter of the series. The story of Naruto, the mischievous boy who undertakes his ninja path, is what is serialized there. So, why did the villagers come to acknowledge Naruto? It's because the villagers grew up. Naruto's way of thinking and efforts were always something that should have been acknowledged. Over time, more and more people came to recognize that.

―What's your favorite scene from "Part 1"?

Kishimoto: There are a few chapters in "Part 1" that I like, but when I think about it, I realize that a lot of them are actually from the beginning. I really like when Konohamaru appears in chapter 3. I also like the story about Inari in Wave Country, and the chapter with Zabuza and Haku. After that, I guess it would be the chapters related to Gakinra… In particular, I made a lot of additions and revisions to the scenes related to Gaara's past when I included them in the volume (those details didn't appear in shonen jump magazine). I couldn't help wanting to depict Gaara's background and psychology more thoroughly, so I don't tend to add or revise too much, and that means that there are a lot of scenes that involve people I know (laughs).

―What is the theme of Part 2?

Kishimoto: In "Part 2", I want to continue the theme of "people accepting other people". Also, I'd like to depict a bit of "love" that I wasn't able to depict in "Part 1" (laughs). But it seems difficult… what should I do (laughs). Anyway, I'm not going to give up halfway through, and I'll do my best to draw with all my might until the very end, so I hope everyone will continue to support me!

Kishimoto-sensei makes a bold announcement!! The exciting new chapter in the Naruto world!! Kishimoto-sensei himself will reveal the secret behind the intriguing scenes you've been reading!!!

Naruto

Q1: How many ramen bowls has Iruka-sensei bought Naruto so far?

A: He buys him ramen around once a week, so it'd be 50 bowls a year, a 100 if Naruto eats two.

Q2: How much money does Naruto carry on his pouch when he goes to the festival?

A: Considering he had to give Jiraiya money, around 30.000 ryo (2.000 euros)

Naruto says "Give me back my money, ero-sennin!"

Sasuke

Q3: Why is the cursed seal different from person to person?

A: Because it'd be pretty boring if it looked the same (laughs)

Q4: How many love letters did Sasuke received in the ninja academy?

A: The amount the most popular person in school would get.

Sasuke says "Hmph… that's stupid/pointless…"

Sakura

Q5: who do you prefer: Sakura, Ino, Hinata, or Tenten?

A: I like Tenten's design.

Q6: Self-proclaimed maiden Sakura, does she have treasures befitting her title as a maiden?

A: Maybe a photo of Sasuke or something?

Sakura says "I'm not a stalker!!! but I do have one..."

Q7: How much money does Tsunade owe?

A: Thousands of ryo

Q8: How much money does Jiraiya have saved?

A: Around the same amount as Tsunade owes.

Q9: Who would win in a fight between Kakashi and Gai?

A: I like to think Gai would win.

Q10: Has Shikamaru ever lost at shogi?

A: Sometimes? against his dad.

Kishimoto-sensei answered the management survey that was collected at WJ!!

Questions:

Which scene moved you the most (made you feel motivated)?

What's your favorite cover?

What is the phrase that has touched your heart the most (or your favorite one)?

Which character would you pick to be your sensei?

Which character would you like as the leader of your group?

A1: "It's the scene where Naruto is stabbed on his hand and is thinking about his dream. I couldn't get Naruto's expression right, so I redrew it many times."

A2: The one of the legendary Sannin as children. It was very tough to come up with the designs of the characters and their summonings from scratch. That's why I like it a lot.

A3: I love all the lines that Guy says to Lee about how people should live their lives. It's like he's giving a lecture, isn't it? (laughs) I think that's a good thing.

A4: The third hokage. I'm a grandpa's kid, so I like talking to old people (laughs). Also, he seems to be really strong.

A5: Iruka. "After all, he seems kind and is a comforting presence for the students... I think I would have liked to have a teacher like him during my school days."

[kuriswritingathenaum]

WRITING COMMISSIONS (GENERAL INFO)

Hello, my name's Kuri or Rina, and here is everything you need to know about my writing commission services. Available modes of payment: PayPal, Ko-Fi, G-Cash (Philippine residents only) Rates: $2/100 words or $15/1k words for SFW; $3/100 words or $25/1k words for NSFW

I can write the following (for both SFW and NSFW;):

Short Stories

Fanfictions (the ones I am familiar with so far are A3!, Idolish7 and Honkai: Star Rail); plots are negotiable; am willing to research other series for free if necessary)

Straight and LGBTQ+ relationships (canon x OC, canon x canon and OC x OC are okay; age gaps are acceptable as long as it's tagged properly. Yes, even consensual polyamory.)

Reader-insert (though with fictional characters only)

Romance

Slice-of-Life

Supernatural

Novels / Novellas (subjective to availability)

Thriller / Horror (subjective to plot)

Crime / Mystery (subjective to plot)

Articles (includes topic research and up to five keywords)

Character Profiles (up to 4k words)

Paid RPs (totally subjective to availability)

Worldbuilding (mainly basic, but I won't mind additional details)

Character Dialogues (for indie projects e.g. VNs and the like)

Bipedal Furry / Semi-Humanoid Features (e.g. with a few physical animal traits like ears, tails, wings and the like. Basically, animal races but standing up like humans.)

Violence (Graphic rating up to T / PG-13 for SFW; R-18 for NSFW)

More info about my commissions is available via the Carrd page.

Interested? Send me a private message here, and we can figure something out!

[ballsballsbowls]

Stuff Your Kindle Day Part 4/5

People actually wanted to know what I was thinking and feeling and finding re SYKD this time, and we actually have multiple days of warning before SYKD so I have a little free time.

I'll throw out a few things to keep in mind and the slap the rest under a readmore since I assume the average person here doesn't want to read romance books.

Blah Blah SYKD website. There were 2000+ books last time and there’s definitely more this time.

Blah blah kindle but there’s other stores, too, if you don’t do kindle.

SYKD is tomorrow, June 20th.

If you’ve ever wondered how I end up finding some of the books that I read, it’s exactly what I’m doing here: reading a blurb and tags and going “…wild. Anyway, the price is right” and buying it anyway.

Sci-Fi Romance

Observations:

This category was a pleasant surprise! They had a wider variety of things than usual, though it’s overwhelmingly 100 pages or less and still a LOT of alien romance and it's easily the shortest category.

Oviposition short story? In SYKD? Normally SYKD is so big it's kind of regression to the mean, so this is buckwild for them.

Looks Interesting:

Her Alien Florida Man by Nessa Claugh Getting roped into the Florida Man Olympics by an attractive alien wasn’t on my to do list. Elwoth’s misunderstanding of what humans do in the Sunshine State is cute until I find myself mud wrestling with alligators, dodging trains, and explaining every Florida Man headline until I’m as purple in the face as he is. He has two days to convince me that his killer smile is harmless and that the headline 'Florida Woman Falls for Alien' could be something worth making. Keywords: opposites attract, golden retriever black cat, plus size fmc GET Her Alien Florida Man FOR FREE ON KINDLE: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon Canada | Amazon Australia

A Tail For Halloween by Sylvia Morrow A lonely gas station worker visits a Halloween party at the estate of the wealthy town recluse, hoping to find love. What she finds instead is trouble—and a tall, handsome alien with a long tail, and a strange sidekick, looking to save her. She can’t tell if this big tiger with a shoe fetish is crazy or if he’s telling the truth about where he’s from; all she knows is she wants to know more about where he’s going. Keywords: Sassy pet sidekick, tail play, lots of fluids, spaceship, kidnapped by a bad guy, someone gets eaten because it’s a Sylvia Morrow book, sci-fi Cinderella with shoe sniffing, language barrier, fated mates, himbo, alien technology, he falls first, dual POV, holiday, he heals her, sweaty feet GET A Tail For Halloween FOR FREE ON KINDLE: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon Canada | Amazon Australia

The Price of Talent: A Spicy Dystopian Romance Series, Books 1-4 by AK Nevermore On an alternate earth, a cataclysm has altered a subset of the population. Talents are persecuted for their psychic and physical mutations, giving rise to two conflicting societies based upon maintaining genetic purity. And the Source, a shadowy corporate entity dependent upon the exploitation of captive Talents, is hunting them... Keywords: post-apocalyptic, touch him/her and die, alpha-hole, morally gray, psychic powers GET The Price of Talent: A Spicy Dystopian Romance Series, Books 1-4 FOR FREE ON KINDLE: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon Canada | Amazon Australia

Monstrous Heat by Joely Sue Burkhart I’m lost in the jungle, and something that looks like a cross between a T-rex and raptor is stalking me. He claims that I can help him through the heat, but I'm afraid that I'm next on his menu. I don't think I'm getting out of the jungle alive. Keywords: monster romance, alien super soldiers, dinosaur shifters, reverse harem, steamy, unusual peens GET Monstrous Heat FOR FREE ON KINDLE: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon Canada | Amazon Australia

I’ve read other books by the same author and recommend:

None

I’ve read this specific book and would recommend:

None

[prashantgautam81]

Top Digital Marketing Trends for 2025

Top Digital Marketing Trends for 2025: What You Need to Know

As technology evolves and user behavior shifts, businesses must stay ahead of the curve to remain relevant. The digital marketing trends for 2025 are not just predictions—they’re strategic signals that will shape the future of brand engagement, customer experience, and ROI.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most impactful digital marketing trends for 2025 you need to watch and integrate into your strategy—today.

1. AI-Powered Marketing Will Dominate the Landscape

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword—it's the backbone of many digital marketing trends for 2025. From predictive analytics to personalized content recommendations, AI will drive efficiency and performance like never before.

Expect to see AI tools automating content generation, optimizing ad spend, and even managing customer interactions via chatbots and virtual agents. Brands that harness AI smartly will gain a serious competitive edge.

Pro Tip: Start exploring AI tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Phrasee to create scalable content strategies.

2. Voice Search Optimization Becomes Non-Negotiable

One of the key digital marketing trends for 2025 is the continued rise of voice search. With more consumers using smart speakers and voice assistants, optimizing for voice search is crucial.

Traditional SEO won’t be enough. You’ll need to adapt your content to answer conversational queries—think featured snippets, FAQs, and long-tail keywords.

Why It Matters: By 2025, it's estimated that over 50% of all online searches will be voice-activated. If you're not optimized for this trend, you're missing out.

3. The Rise of Zero-Click Searches

Zero-click searches—where users find the answers directly on the search engine results page (SERP)—are one of the more challenging digital marketing trends for 2025.

This trend forces marketers to rethink their SEO strategy. Instead of chasing clicks, focus on building authority and earning SERP features like Google’s featured snippets, People Also Ask, and Knowledge Panels.

Key Insight: It’s about visibility and branding. Even without a click, your brand can make an impression.

4. Hyper-Personalization with First-Party Data

With third-party cookies phasing out, businesses must shift to first-party data to fuel their personalization strategies. This marks a turning point in the digital marketing trends for 2025, as brands aim to deliver hyper-targeted content without invading privacy.

Collect data through newsletters, gated content, and loyalty programs—then use it to personalize user experiences across all touchpoints.

Tool Suggestion: Use CDPs (Customer Data Platforms) like Segment or HubSpot to centralize and activate your data.

5. Short-Form Video Continues to Explode

Among the most unstoppable digital marketing trends for 2025 is short-form video. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are redefining how we consume content.

Consumers want quick, authentic, and visually engaging experiences. Marketers need to adopt vertical video, storytelling, and trends to engage their audience.

Content Idea: Try weekly behind-the-scenes clips or “quick tips” videos to build trust and showcase your expertise.

6. Social Commerce Will Reshape E-Commerce

Social media is no longer just a place to connect—it’s becoming a shopping mall. One of the hottest digital marketing trends for 2025 is social commerce, where users can discover and buy products without leaving platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.

Livestream shopping, influencer collaborations, and in-app purchases will become central to the e-commerce journey.

Action Step: Make sure your product catalog is integrated with platforms like Meta Shops and TikTok Store.

7. Sustainability & Ethical Marketing Take Center Stage

Consumers in 2025 are more conscious of how and where they spend their money. One of the most values-driven digital marketing trends for 2025 is the shift toward transparency, sustainability, and purpose.

People want to support brands that align with their values—whether it’s eco-friendly packaging, ethical labor, or charitable partnerships.

Tip: Don’t just talk about your values—show them. Use your marketing to highlight your impact and commitment.

8. Interactive Content Will Boost Engagement

Static content is losing its charm. A key digital marketing trend for 2025 is the use of interactive content—think polls, quizzes, calculators, and clickable videos.

Why? Because it increases engagement, dwell time, and conversions. It also helps gather valuable insights about your audience.

Example: A skincare brand could create a quiz titled “What’s Your Skin Type?” to drive product recommendations.

9. AR & VR Experiences Go Mainstream

Augmented and virtual reality aren’t just for gaming anymore. One of the most exciting digital marketing trends for 2025 is the rise of immersive marketing.

Brands are using AR for virtual try-ons, 3D product views, and interactive ads. Meanwhile, VR opens up opportunities for virtual stores, tours, and experiences.

Future Vision: Imagine launching a virtual showroom or a product demo experience customers can explore from home.

10. Email Marketing Gets Smarter, Not Just Louder

Email isn’t going anywhere—but how we use it is evolving. Among the digital marketing trends for 2025, smarter, segmented, and behavior-based emails are proving far more effective than generic blasts.

AI and automation now allow you to send personalized messages based on purchase behavior, content consumption, and even website clicks.

Don’t Forget: Mobile-first design is essential. Most emails are read on phones—keep it clean and compelling.

Final Thoughts

The digital marketing trends for 2025 reflect a world that’s fast-paced, data-conscious, and deeply connected. From AI and video to ethics and engagement, the future of marketing is about creating personalized, authentic experiences at scale.

[articlesh]

How to Write SEO-Friendly Blog Posts

In today’s digital landscape, writing a blog post is not just about putting words on a page — it’s about ensuring your content gets found by the right audience. That’s where SEO (Search Engine Optimization) comes in. An SEO-friendly blog post strikes the perfect balance between user-friendly content and search engine best practices.

Whether you're a content creator, digital marketer, or business owner, learning how to write SEO-friendly blog posts can dramatically improve your website traffic and online visibility.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft blog content that ranks well on search engines and engages your readers.

1. Start with Keyword Research

Before writing anything, identify the keywords your audience is searching for. These are the words and phrases typed into Google or other search engines.

How to do it:

Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, Ahrefs, or SEMRush

Focus on long-tail keywords (e.g., “best running shoes for flat feet” instead of “running shoes”)

Consider search intent – is the user looking for information, buying a product, or comparing options?

Pro Tip: Target one primary keyword and 2��3 secondary keywords in each blog post.

2. Craft a Compelling, SEO-Friendly Title

Your blog title should include the primary keyword while also being attention-grabbing. It’s often the first thing users see in search results, so make it count.

Tips:

Keep the title under 60 characters

Add numbers, questions, or power words to spark interest (e.g., “10 Proven Ways to Write SEO-Friendly Blog Posts”)

Place the main keyword near the beginning of the title

3. Write an Engaging Introduction

The first few lines of your post should hook the reader and make them want to read more. Introduce the topic clearly and mention your target keyword early — ideally within the first 100 words.

Example: “Want to get your blog noticed by Google and real people? Writing SEO-friendly blog posts is your key to better visibility and higher traffic.”

4. Structure Your Content with Headings (H1, H2, H3)

Using a clear structure helps both readers and search engines understand your content.

Use H1 for the main blog title (only one per post)

Use H2s for major sections

Use H3s or H4s for subpoints under each section

Why it matters: Headings break your content into manageable chunks and improve readability — both of which contribute to better SEO.

5. Optimize for Readability

Google favors content that is easy to read. If your blog post is hard to understand, people will bounce — and that’s bad for SEO.

How to improve readability:

Use short paragraphs (2–4 lines)

Include bullet points and numbered lists

Use simple language

Avoid jargon unless your audience is technical

6. Use Keywords Naturally

Sprinkle your primary and secondary keywords throughout the content — but don’t overdo it.

Best practices:

Include the keyword in the title, first paragraph, subheadings, and meta description

Aim for a keyword density of 1–2%

Use LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords — related phrases and synonyms

Important: Avoid keyword stuffing, which can hurt your rankings.

7. Add Internal and External Links

Linking is crucial for SEO and user experience.

Internal links guide readers to other useful content on your site

External links (to reputable sources) show search engines that your content is well-researched

Example: If you mention “SEO tools,” link to your blog post about “Top 10 Free SEO Tools for Beginners.”

8. Optimize Images

Images enhance engagement, but they also offer SEO opportunities.

Checklist:

Use descriptive file names (e.g., seo-friendly-blog.jpg)

Add alt text with relevant keywords

Compress images to improve page loading speed

9. Write a Compelling Meta Description

The meta description doesn’t directly affect rankings, but it influences click-through rate (CTR).

Tips:

Keep it under 160 characters

Include the main keyword

Make it persuasive and clear

Example: “Learn how to write SEO-friendly blog posts that rank on Google and attract more readers with these 9 expert tips.”

10. Update and Promote Your Post

Even the best-written content needs exposure and maintenance.

Share on social media, email newsletters, and forums

Monitor performance using Google Analytics and Google Search Console

Update outdated posts with fresh stats and links every few months

Final Thoughts

Writing SEO-friendly blog posts is a skill that combines content writing, technical SEO, and an understanding of user behavior. By following these steps — from keyword research to readability and promotion — you’ll be creating blog content that not only ranks well but also provides real value to your audience.

Remember: SEO isn’t about gaming the algorithm; it’s about delivering relevant, high-quality content that search engines and users love.

To learn more about content marketing, SEO, SEM SMM join our Digital Marketing Specialist program at Finprov Learning Koramangala Bangalore.

[cindylouwho-2]

RECENT SEO & MARKETING NEWS FOR ECOMMERCE, JULY 2024

If you are new to my Tumblr, I usually do these summaries of SEO and marketing news once a month, picking out the pieces that are most likely to be useful to small and micro-businesses.

You can get notified of these updates plus my website blog posts via email: http://bit.ly/CindyLouWho2Blog or get all of the most timely updates plus exclusive content by supporting my Patreon: patreon.com/CindyLouWho2

TOP NEWS & ARTICLES 

There is a relatively new way to file copyright claims against US residents, called The Copyright Claims Board (CCB). I wrote more here [post by me on Patreon]

After a few years of handwringing and false starts, Google is abandoning plans to block third-party cookies in Chrome. Both Safari and Firefox already block them. 

When composing titles and text where other keywords are found, it can be useful to have a short checklist of the types of keywords you need, as this screenshot demonstrates. While that title is too long for most platforms and search engines, it covers really critical points that should get mentioned in the product description and keyword fields/tags as well:

The core keywords that describe the item

What the customer is looking to do - solve a problem? Find a gift? Feel better? 

What makes the product stand out in its field - why buy this instead of something else? Differentiating your items is something that should come before you get to the listing stage, so the keywords should already be in your head. 

Relevant keywords that will be used in long tail searches are always great add-ons.

What if anything about your item is trendy now? E.g., sustainability? Particular colours, styles or materials/ingredients are always important.  

SEO: GOOGLE & OTHER SEARCH ENGINES 

Google’s June spam update has finished rolling out. And here is the full list of Google news from June. 

Expect a new Google core update “in the coming weeks” (as if we needed more Google excitement).

Google’s AI overviews continue to dwindle at the top of search results, now only appearing in 7% of searches.

Despite Google trying to target AI spam, many poorly-copied articles still outrank the originals in Google search results. 

Internal links are important for Google SEO. While this article covers blogging in particular, most of the tips apply to any standalone website. Google also recently did a video [YouTube] on the same topic. 

Google had a really excellent second quarter, mostly due to the cloud and AI. 

Not Google

OpenAI is testing SearchGPT with a small number of subscribers. Alphabet shares dropped 3% after the announcement. 

SOCIAL MEDIA - All Aspects, By Site

General

New social media alert: noplace is a new app billed as MySpace for Gen Z that also has some similarities with Twitter (e.g., text-based chats, with no photos or videos at this time). iOS only at the moment; no Android app or web page. 

Thinking of trying out Bluesky? Here are some tips to get the most out of it. 

Facebook (includes relevant general news from Meta)

Meta’s attempt at circumventing EU privacy regulations through paid subscriptions is illegal under the Digital Markets Act, according to the European Commission. “if the company cannot reach an agreement with regulators before March 2025, the Commission has the power to levy fines of up to 10 percent of the company’s global turnover.”

If you post Reels from a business page, you may be able to let Meta use AI to do A/B testing on the captions and other portions shown. I personally would not do this unless I could see what options they were choosing, since AI is often not as good as it thinks it is. 

Apple’s 30% fee on in-app ad purchases for Facebook and Instagram has kicked in worldwide as of July 1. 

Facebook is testing ads in the Notifications list on the app. 

Meta is encouraging advertisers to connect their Google Analytics accounts to Meta Ads, claiming “integration could improve campaign performance, citing a 22% conversion increase.”

Instagram

The head of Instagram is still emphasizing that the number of DM shares per post is a huge ranking factor. 

LinkedIn

Another article on the basics of setting up LinkedIn and getting found through it. 

You can now advertise your LinkedIn newsletters on the platform. 

Pinterest

Pinterest is slowly testing an AI program that edits the background of product photography without changing the product. 

Is Pinterest dying? An investment research firm thinks so. 

Reddit

If you want to see results from Reddit in your search engine results, Google is the only place that can happen now. 

More than ever, Reddit is being touted as a way to be found (especially in Google search), but you do have to understand how the site works to be successful at it. 

Snapchat

Snapchat+ now has 9 million paying users, and they are getting quite a few new personalization updates, and Snaps that last 50 seconds or less. 

Threads

Threads has hit 175 million active users each month, up from 130 million in February. 

TikTok

TikTok has made it easier to reuse your videos outside of the site without a watermark. 

TikTok users can now select a custom thumbnail image for videos, either a frame from the clip itself, or a still image from elsewhere.  

Twitter

You can opt out of Twitter using your posts as data for its AI, Grok. 

YouTube

YouTube has new tools for Shorts, including one that makes your longer videos into Shorts. 

Community Spaces are the latest YouTube test to try to get more fan involvement, while moving users away from video comments.

(CONTENT) MARKETING (includes blogging, emails, and strategies) 

Start your content marketing plans for August now, including back-to-school themes and Alfred Hitchcock’s birthday on August 13. 

ONLINE ADVERTISING (EXCEPT INDIVIDUAL SOCIAL MEDIA AND ECOMMERCE SITES) 

Google Ads now have several new updates, including blocking misspellings. 

Google’s new Merchant Center Next will soon be available for all users, if they haven’t already been invited. Supplemental feeds are now (or soon will be) allowed there. 

STATS, DATA, TRACKING 

Google Search Console users can now add their shipping and return info to Google search through the Console itself. This is useful for sites that do not pay for Google Ads or use Google’s free shopping ads. 

BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS, STATS & REPORTS; SOCIOLOGY & PSYCHOLOGY, CUSTOMER SERVICE 

The second part of this Whiteboard Friday [video with transcript] discusses how consumer behaviour is changing during tight economic times. “People are still spending. They just want the most for their money. Also, the consideration phase is much more complex and longer.” The remainder of the piece discusses how to approach your target market during these times. 

Prime Day was supposedly the best ever for Amazon, but they didn’t release any numbers. Adobe Analytics tracked US ecommerce sales on those days and provides some insight. “Buy-now, pay-later accounted for 7.6% of all orders, a 16.4% year-over-year increase.”

MISCELLANEOUS

You know how I always tell small business owners to have multiple revenue streams? Tech needs to have multiple providers and backups as well, as the recent CrowdStrike and Microsoft issues demonstrate. 

If you used Google’s old URL shortener anywhere, those links will no longer redirect as of August 25 2024. 

[mcginnlawfirm]

What is the role of the defense attorney in a criminal case?

Legal representation can make all the difference if you face criminal charges. A criminal defense attorney in Council Bluffs not only safeguards your rights but also helps you navigate the complexities of the legal system. This article explores the critical role of defense attorneys, how to choose the right one, and the benefits of hiring an experienced professional to represent you.

The Importance of Legal Representation in Criminal Cases

When facing criminal charges, whether for a misdemeanor or felony, the stakes are high. Convictions can result in heavy fines, imprisonment, and a permanent record that affects future opportunities. A skilled defense attorney can:

Protect Your Rights: Ensure you’re treated fairly and according to the law.

Build a Strong Defense: Develop strategies to challenge the evidence against you.

Navigate Complex Procedures: Guide you through court filings, hearings, and negotiations.

For individuals in the area, choosing a criminal defense attorney in Council Bluffs ensures that you have local expertise, a key factor in navigating the nuances of Iowa’s criminal justice system.

Understanding Criminal Charges

Criminal charges generally fall into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies.

Misdemeanors

Less severe offenses, such as petty theft or minor drug possession.

Punishments often include fines, probation, or short jail terms.

Example: Seeking a misdemeanor legal defense can help reduce penalties or even avoid a conviction.

Felonies

Serious crimes, including assault, burglary, or drug trafficking.

Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences and significant fines.

An experienced defense attorney for felony charges is essential for these high-stakes cases.

Understanding the nature of your charge helps you assess the level of legal support you need. Finding top-rated criminal lawyers for DUI cases in Council Bluffs can be a game-changer in cases like DUI.

Qualities of a Reliable Defense Attorney

Choosing the right lawyer is vital. Here’s what to look for when searching for a criminal defense attorney in Council Bluffs:

Experience: Look for a professional who has handled cases similar to yours.

Reputation: Seek out the best Council Bluffs criminal defense attorneys with positive reviews and a track record of success.

Communication Skills: An attorney who keeps you informed at every step of the process.

Local Knowledge: Understanding local laws and relationships with area courts and prosecutors.

You can search online for criminal law firms near me and read client testimonials to find a lawyer who meets your needs.

Steps to Find the Best Criminal Lawyer

Finding the right attorney can feel overwhelming. Follow these steps to simplify the process:

Research Online: To narrow your search, use long-tail keywords like "find a reliable criminal lawyer in Council Bluffs." Check reviews and ratings on trusted platforms.

Ask for Recommendations: Friends, family, or colleagues may have valuable suggestions.

Verify Credentials: Confirm the attorney is licensed and in good standing with the state bar association.

Schedule Consultations: Meet with potential lawyers to discuss your case and gauge their approachability.

Compare Fees: Balance affordability with expertise when reviewing cost structures.

Benefits of Hiring a Local Criminal Defense Attorney

Hiring a criminal defense attorney in Council Bluffs offers several advantages:

Familiarity with Local Courts: Local attorneys understand the preferences and tendencies of judges and prosecutors.

Quicker Access: They are nearby and available for consultations or court appearances.

Tailored Strategies: Knowledge of state-specific laws ensures a more effective defense.

When facing serious charges, such as DUI or felony accusations, working with experienced criminal lawyers in Council Bluffs can save you time, stress, and potentially your freedom.

Common Legal Services Offered by Defense Attorneys

A well-rounded criminal defense attorney provides a wide range of services, including:

DUI Defense: Representing clients accused of driving under the influence.

Felony Defense: Handling severe cases such as armed robbery or drug trafficking.

Misdemeanor Defense: Managing less severe charges like disorderly conduct or vandalism.

Court Representation: Advocating for clients during trials, plea negotiations, or sentencing hearings.

Choosing a lawyer specializing in your specific charge increases your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Practical Tips for Hiring the Right Attorney

To ensure you make the best choice, consider these tips:

Check References: Ask for referrals from past clients.

Evaluate Responsiveness: Your attorney should promptly return calls and emails.

Ask Questions: During consultations, inquire about their experience with cases like yours.

Practical and proactive steps can make all the difference when searching for the best Council Bluffs criminal defense attorneys.

Why Experience Matters in Criminal Defense

The legal landscape is complex, and experience is crucial. Here’s why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney makes a difference:

Knowledge of the Law: Seasoned attorneys stay updated on legal precedents and procedural changes.

Strategic Planning: They anticipate prosecution tactics and prepare effective counterarguments.

Negotiation Skills: A veteran lawyer can secure reduced charges or lighter sentences through plea deals.

For those navigating felony or misdemeanor charges, partnering with experienced criminal lawyers in Council Bluffs can provide peace of mind and a fighting chance.

The Role of a Defense Attorney in Your Case

Defense attorneys serve as both advisors and advocates. Their responsibilities include:

Explaining Your Rights: Clarifying your legal options and potential outcomes.

Investigating the Case: Reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and uncovering discrepancies.

Developing Defense Strategies: Tailoring approaches to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Representing You in Court: Arguing on your behalf during trials and hearings.

Whether you’re dealing with a DUI charge or a serious felony, having the best Council Bluffs criminal defense attorneys by your side ensures comprehensive support.

Don’t leave your future to chance if you're facing criminal charges. Hiring a trusted criminal defense attorney in Council Bluffs is your best step toward a favorable resolution. Contact a reliable legal professional today to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

[loveisafire-warriors]

HISTORY

The Clans were brought into life generations ago, but how is the story of that event told? This is the story given to kits when they're first learning history lessons.

There was once a family, noble and proud, who went as they pleased and hunted as they hunted, led by the head of the family, and parent to three of the cats, Star. His sons, Solar Sky, Jay’s River and Lions Thunder had their own families and loves, leading them to gain more family members. Particularly Poison Wind and Doves Shadow, Solar Sky’s daughters.

After Star’s sudden death, the family began to travel away from where they were raised to new lands, trying to find themselves in the great unknown. As they traveled, they amassed followers who went with them, inspired by their leadership and determination. Though, when they reached the new lands, each group split into different ones to better survey the land.

Jays River specifically joined the cats that already lived in these lands, known as the Park cats. He learned their language and customs, and climbed the ranks to become their new leader with the support of the cats he brought with him and those he charmed.

After a few moons of peace, Solar Sky began pushing into his brother, Lions Thunder’s, territory. In return Lions Thunder pushed back and into Jays River’s territory, causing fighting amongst all the groups for said territory, even causing the once close sisters to drift apart from one another in search to protect their own land.

At the first full moon after the fighting began, the groups converged at the five trees that represented each, and tried to negotiate. Keyword Tried. They thrust themselves at each other, fighting savagely and killing those that were weak enough to plead for the fighting to stop. The only survivor that didn’t fight or kill was Bumble, a cat from Lion Thunder’s camp. She knew every language of all the cats, and begged them to stop fighting in every one, but no one listened.

Until, Solar Sky had pinned Bumble to the ground, ready to strike the final blow, when a yowl from the very stars themselves paused him short. Star stood above them, now as big as the mythical beasts of Lions, Leopards and Tigers, and told them to stop, backed up by the dozens of cats that had been killed in the fighting.

Due to the shock of it, the cats stopped fighting, and Star spoke. “To each cat that leads their Clan, we will grant eight, worthy lives to lead and connect with your subjects. As long as you keep the peace and do not fight this brutally again.”

Solar Sky preened under the sentences, tail standing tall with a cruel smile as he awaited his lives. Star went through the leaders one by one until he only had his eldest son left, looked him in the eyes, and snarled.

BAM!!

Lightning struck where Solar Sky stood, leaving him dead on the ground as his cats exclaimed in surprise and horror. Star closed his eyes in pain at what he had just done, and then turned to Solar Sky’s second in command, Sparrow.

“You will lead the group known as Skyclan, and I expect you to do better than your predecessor.” Nodding frantically, Sparrow bowed her head and received her lives, quickly joining the others in burying the dead as Star disappeared, along with all the other dead and dying spirits.

This is how the Clans came to be.