#The Best Chance: A Guide to Discovering Your Purpose

[thepersonalwords]

You need courage because at various moments in your life you might need to attempt something new, push yourself outside your comfort zone, challenge the status quo, change your story, or overcome your fear.

Mensah Oteh, The Best Chance: A Guide to Discovering Your Purpose, Reaching Your Potential, Experiencing Fulfilment and Achieving Success in Any Area of Life

[quotelr]

You rob yourself of reaching your maximum potential and the best chance of success when you try to succeed alone.

Mensah Oteh, The Best Chance: A Guide to Discovering Your Purpose, Reaching Your Potential, Experiencing Fulfilment and Achieving Success in Any Area of Life

[rosy-crow]

The thing I would say is commonly misunderstood the most about Sephiroth is his reaction to discovering that he was “created.”

People get baffled by the Nibelheim Incident and say, “I guess finding out you were an experiment would be upsetting, but why would that fill him with so much rage that he started killing humans and wanting to destroy the entire planet?”

But it’s more like….no, imagine you were born inherently different from everyone else. Forget the extra tragic background stuff that some of us know for a moment. Just take that basic idea about being “born special.”

You are distinctly isolate. It’s in your literal DNA. You are physically and biologically “other” your entire life. Not with a disorder or deformity, but with some completely unique and separate make-up as a living being.

And you don’t like it. You don’t like being special and different. It’s a type of different that can be utilized because it manifests in unnatural, destructive power. Your physical strength and endurance are beyond human and are most suited to war and bloodshed. This strips you of the ability to assimilate into the world. It makes you fit best as a weapon.

You don’t get a family, home, or sense of secure, ordinary life. You don’t get to connect with the planet. You live in a completely different world from everyone else and look out at them through glass and steel.

Sure, they idolize you. Cool. They worship the physical otherness that you were born with. They admire your godly strength, they fawn over your looks, they obsess over your presence, blah blah. But it’s all distant noise to you. There’s no fulfillment in it. You don’t want praise and worship from behind glass and steel, you want something or someone to connect to.

You want your mother — because SHE would give you love, safety, acceptance, and humanity. You could feel human if you could run into the arms of the human that birthed you. The existence of your mother is proof that you are human for the time being. You need her so much.

But none of this is given to you and even though you look for answers, they somehow evade you for your entire life.

MEANWHILE, the only ones to steer and guide you are the company that brought you up and at least gave you a place to reside, a place to find purpose. In your mind, since you were born special, maybe this company is a type of salvation, even if you don’t like everything they do or…..anything about them at all, actually.

But hey! They still guide your power and strength. They still give you something to hang onto. They don’t attack you for being special, they just steer you to employ your abilities and that’s SOMETHING to hold onto. It’s a place where you can assimilate and be accepted in some way. Even if it hurts you. You OWE them.

Now cut to Nibelheim. You uncover it all. Every. Single. Lie. And lies on top of lies. What you discover isn’t even the full truth, but you THINK it is. You think you’ve just finally found out all the answers!

And it starts with your birth. Turns out you were created. You’re not human at all. You were created from the remains of an ancient being that was dug up from the earth and labeled as a separate species by humanity. It’s even dubbed a monster by some, and boy…does it sure look like one.

All of those differences you grew up with, all of those feelings of otherness, all of those fucking isolate traits that FORCED you to live in a cold, different world and that conveniently suited the needs of the greedy, corporate businessmen that raised you were produced and crafted by them.

Your “special existence” that took away every chance at normal, human life was not something you were born with and had no control over. It was literally the result of horrible, unethical experimentation. All of your years of trying to accept it and just do your job are now pointless. It’s like a robot discovering it never had any autonomy or soul because it was always a product made with false ideas about itself.

And to make things worse? Your mother is the other victim of the company that created you. They had her all along, trapped inside an experimental hellscape and hooked up to tubes and wires. Treated like a revered object the same way you were. She’s not human either. That means she’s the only one that can be one with you and understand you. Or so you believe.

All those years you spent separated from her, trying to make peace with what you thought was a natural difference in your DNA…all of it was meaningless because you were being lied to, controlled, used, and treated like the creation you were from the start. You were being kept from your mother and even told she was dead.

Of course you would break.

This is just the core of Sephiroth’s story and I’m not even mentioning all of the additional horror that goes into his life, but this alone would make anyone enraged beyond reason. It would send anyone into deep despair.

Sephiroth only climbed out of that pitch black despair by using hatred, rage, and the drive to return to his mother. He reshapes his entire person to embrace the monster Shinra created. He embraced what he believed they made him to be without his consent, and turned his back on the “others” besides himself and his mother.

[yourelliewillms]

the guy from the record

store wasn't a guy?

ellie williams fanfic

━━ chapter 1 wc: 1.9k

read the chapters here !!

you've recently discovered this record shop, the perfect place to find everything of the new kind of music you've just gotten into, rock. your friends wouldn't share this interest with you but maybe the cute guy from the store will.

━━ he/him pronous are used for ellie sometimes but it's for plot purposes i swear !!

BASED ON THE GUY SHE WAS INTERESTED IN WASN'T A GUY AT ALL !!!! i love that manga so much i needed an ellie version so i did it myself. of course this is going to be shorter and pleeaase go read it i swear you won't regret it <3 i hardly recommend you to listen to the manga's playlist too, i'll add some of the songs to this fanfic. literally all i want is my lesbians to have the recognition they deserve. ALSO green is the characteristic color of that manga so i'll be using it here too, everything will be green bc we love green lesbians.

another warning, english is not my first language so you may find some mistakes.

it's been a long day at school but at least the week of exams has ended and you've done pretty good. "i deserve a prize" you think to yourself while your feet guide you out of the building. certainly the exams drained you, the only thing you want to do now is take a long nap to catch up on sleep.

walking down the sidewalk, you put on your headphones which have been your best friends for the last few months when you discovered this band nirvana. it is in fact a popular band but in your friend group? no, not at all. your friends prefer other kind of music. pop, kpop, even jazz, but rock? impossible.

so you find yourself unable to share your new music taste with your friends. even if you beg them to give it a chance, they'll refuse it every time. this is definitely the worst, how are you supposed to fully enjoy this work of art only by yourself? they definitely don't understand what good music is, if only they gave it a chance you could-

just when the music from your headphones stopped, you could still hear one of your favorite songs smells like teen spirit coming from a... record store?

your mind is full of questions, since when has been this store here? this is just 5 minutes away from school and you've never noticed it. maybe this is the prize you deserve for having successfully passed all your exams. buying your very first vinyl will surely be the boost of serotonin you need.

you took off your headphones before getting into the store and quickly walked to check all the beautiful vinyls. the excitement could be seen in your eyes, all the vinyls of your favorite bands in one store and you're even considering finding a job, buying everything of this store is not a want but a necessity. this must be heaven.

after what felt like seconds but were actually 20 long minutes, you finally make your choice and find the vinyl that'll have the privilege to be your very first and most appreciated acquisition.

you turn around, walk towards the shop counter and just then realize how rude of you was not to greet the old man at the store. however, you don't care that much, he should understand that you were too excited to even speak and... was it an old man? did you even look at the person who was next to you the last 20 minutes?

"i'll take this" you place the vinyl on the counter before looking up at the person in front of you.

but now, you reassure one more time that you're not on earth anymore. this is definitely heaven, or maybe something greater because the angel in front of you isn't from this planet at all. green eyes, auburn hair drawn back in a messy bun, a scar on one eyebrow, black clothes with a nirvana t-shirt, an arm tattoo and a mask. this is the most gorgeous guy you've seen in your entire life and you were rude to him, you didn't talk to him for this entire time.

"i love this one" he gave you your new purchase in a bag "you have good taste" that raspy voice that'll live in your mind rent free for an eternity, you're sure about that.

meanwhile, your mind has been spinning for the last 30 seconds. a cute guy with a stunning style and majestic music taste, you've seen only his eyes but you can already imagine a life with him where you get married and play your favorite songs in your wedding.

"thanks, you too. bye" and just like that the conversation ended. you're definitely not the most flirtatious person but you didn't ask him anything, maybe it was too soon to ask for his number but not even his name? really? you can already hear your friends scolding you but at least you remember half of his face and that's enough to be delusional the following months until you find another crush.

8 in the morning and you've been talking for half an hour to your friends about this cute guy from the record store. of course they scolded you for not asking his name but your excitement couldn't be taken away that easily. no other boy from your school has ever made you feel like this, no one called your attention like he did.

"is there any possibility that you see your boy again?" dina, your best friend asked "and maybe ask him out"

"dina!" you frowned as if she had just said the craziest thing you've heard in your life "it's too soon for that. but as soon as i see him again i'll ask him his name" you started kicking your feet "and he'll fall in love with me."

dina and your bursted out laughing and spent the whole morning planning your future life with someone you saw once.

maybe you've been talking too loud or maybe she doesn't like you, but the girl next to you has been glancing at you and dina and she seemed a little too much interested in your conversation.

ellie. you've been classmates for almost a year but you two never spoke. she's like any other girl at school. she wears the same uniform as you, a white shirt and a gray skirt. she also wears these square glasses and she has her headphones on most of the time.

she seems like one of those nerds but one that doesn't participate that much in class. she comes to class, listens to the professors and goes home. you've never seen her talking to any other classmates but she seems comfortable only drawing on her notebook and listening to something on her headphones, it's not that you don't like her, but you haven't had the opportunity to get to know her.

but today she seemed quite distracted and instead of focusing on the class, she was focused on you. she seemed nervous, maybe she wanted to join the conversation and make some friends?

however, the bell rang. you were too busy talking about your new guy to try to figure out why ellie's been looking at you more than usual. you began to pack up your belongings; notebook, pencil case, some other books and, are you forgetting something?

the moment you're getting up from your seat, you can feel ellie's presence approaching you. you stare up at her for a few seconds and before you can say something, her hand reached your ear and put on one of your earbuds.

"you dropped this" your eyebrows furrowed, did she always had those pretty green eyes?

the song that you'd been listening on loop nothing at all was playing on your earbuds loud enough for her to listen to it "that song rocks, doesn't it?" and just like that she walked out the door leaving you completely confused. you're sure you've seen those eyes before, you think that maybe for a split second you stopped looking at ellie as your classmate and maybe... someone else.

on the other hand, ellie has been walking in silence staring at her feet while her mind is about to explode because the girl who sits next to her, her classmate and one of the most popular girls at school, has met and is interested in a guy who works at the record store. but no guy works there, just ellie.

she got a part time job and she's been working there for a few months but that was the first time she saw you there. you didn't recognize her though, since the style she has at her job is the opposite of the one she has at school.

probably the best option is to tell you the truth, the guy you're interested in isn't a guy and is actually the boring, nerdy girl from school, the girl you'd never talk to because that would only ruin your reputation, or at least that's what ellie thinks.

ellie thought that her job should be boring and only boring, she didn't want to have to deal with something else than that. and now that girl has a crush on her, or she has a crush on the person she thinks ellie is.

fortunately, ellie's job is calm. not many people visit the store so she spends her first hours of work tidying the place, not paying much attention to the store itself.

while cleaning at the back of the store, ellie heard the ring of the little bell on the door warning the presence of a client. she sighed and fixed her clothes before getting into the store again but got surprised when she noticed that the client was actually you.

if it weren't for the music playing at the store, the place would have been in complete silence. no one was on sight when you walked in so the sound coming from the back of the store scared you and you jumped. "you scared me, i didn't know you were here" you giggled nervously.

"have you been looking forward to it that much?" you were starting to stutter when the green eyed spoke in what seemed a flirty way. "no- i mean! the new foo fighters album" she interrupted herself "you were looking forward to it because you wanted to buy it, right?" she tried to hide her shaky voice, did she just accidentally flirt with you?

"i swear it's so good, you can hear it a thousand times and it'll still sound amazing. also, i know you like nirvana too because you bought the vinyl. you'll love it, i totally recommend it."

you were in a dream, did you just exchange more than two words with that guy? and he was showing a lot of interest it seemed unreal. you'd be a fool if you mess this up.

"i really want to buy it but uhm..." your pockets were empty, you spent all your money in that vinyl and being an unemployed student is not helpful to your situation "i'm a bit short of money right now" not to say that you're dry.

"i'm sorry but i-" yet she didn't let you finish your sentence "i bought this one for myself. you can have it and tell me your opinion when you return it."

he couldn't be more charming to you. only 5 minutes talking and you had already fell down on your knees. "thank you. you can give me your number so that i can bring it back." your hand sweating for you've finally made a move on who you thought was the guy from your dreams.

"no," no? he rejected you just like that, he didn't even a think a second to answer your question "it's just... i can't use my phone at work."

laying on the counter in front of you was a black ink pen which you quickly grabbed and started writing your phone number on his wrist next to his tattoo.

ellie looked at you stunned, she was glad she was wearing a mask because her cheeks had turned crimson. she noticed your hand shaking and that was the moment she realized the trouble she'd gotten into.

"i thought that if i wrote it on a paper, you'd lose it." the music playing in the background just made the atmosphere between you two dreamlike. you waved and smiled at him as you left the store hoping your burning cheeks would go unnoticed. not only did you have someone to share your interests with but also it was someone who you were crushing on really hard.

the first person on the taglist will be my editor/manager/first person who read this @ohnopoteito thank uuu 💋💋

[wingedjellyfishflight]

Freedom Calls

Sneaking in here just might be the dumbest thing you have done, but you can't sit idly by and watch this man be tortured and killed by your corrupt organization. You might not have any better options, but you know that he does. He just needs help getting to them. At least you are good with a lockpick and have security access as a guard. Makes it easier that way. Though, your keycard will be traced to you, and you know that means your life is forfeit. They haven't had time to start on him, though, which means that he should be well enough to escape once he is out the door. And the guard on duty tonight is well known for falling asleep at the job, hiding in a closet nearby. So that should mean you don't have to hurt anyone.

The only thing you didn't account for was him. The man himself.

"Why are you here? What do you want? This is a trick, I know it! No, I'm not playing your games." Finally, you resort to ordering him to cuff up and putting a bag over his head. You drag him out, fighting him every step and pretend to anyone you come across that you've been ordered to bring him to interrogation room 15, which no one wants to admit they have no clue where that is, so your confidently bored voice gets you most of the way across the facility without an issue.

You drag him into an empty bathroom and shove him to the handicap stall before dragging the hood off and uncuffing him.

"What-? Where?!" You shove a hand over his mouth.

"Keep your voice down. I'm trying to set you free, you idiot! Out that window about 10 yards is the perimeter fence. It's got a hole at the bottom that you can crawl through, and then it's straight to the woods from there. North of those woods is a main road where your team can pick you up if they are watching. Shouldn't take more than 10 minutes at a flat out, so long as you don't trip. Now, go already before we get caught, and I die for nothing!"

He seems torn for a moment. You think he is unsure if he should believe you, but the truth is almost worse. He grabs you and tosses you out the window before jumping out himself. Wrapping his hands in the straps of your tac vest, he half carries you like a doll, shoving you through the hole in the fence and following quickly. There are no shouts of alarm yet, luckily. He quickly pulls you to your feet and shoves you toward the woods. You start running, knowing if you are caught, then you're both dead.

At the wood's edge, you hear the first shouts. They are focused inside, and you know they have discovered that he is missing. You pick up the pace, guiding the two of you to a deer path that you know from your leisurely walks at lunch in the forest. He follows you, and you signal to follow the path. Surging past, he goes into a flat-out run. You struggle behind him, doing your best to keep up.

You hear a squad moving behind you. If they catch him, it's game over for both of you, but you know if they catch you that you can be a distraction, giving him a chance to escape. So you duck down a side path, barely wide enough for precise steps. It takes you mostly parallel to the road, east instead of north. After a few hundred feet, you begin purposely making extra noise to attract attention. You can hear them changing direction to follow you, slowed down by the heavier brush. The further you go, the more you outpace them and the less purposeful noise you make. Another few hundred meters or so, and you realize they have turned back, likely assuming they have chased wildlife instead of their target.

Breathing a tiny sigh of relief, you continue looking for a fork in the path to take you north again. You find it surprisingly quickly and come out onto the road about a mile away from the main trail. Almost immediately, you are held at gun point by a man who sports an enemy uniform. Well, an hour ago, he was your enemy, but now, you're not sure.

"Has he made it here yet? The trail I sent him on was only a mile south, and he was far ahead of me." Your question seems to put the man off kilter for a long moment. Too long. You brace yourself, waiting for him to kill you. Instead, a masked man comes around the corner of the vehicle.

"That's the one. Handcuff her and put her in the back. Let's go." You flinch as he handcuffs you tightly but cooperate every step of the way. You're sandwiched between the two men, and you sit quietly as the masked man drives the truck away. Surprisingly, it's as straightforward as just driving down the road to a nearby airport to escape. On board a big military plane, the questions start. They hate your answer that it was a spontaneous decision, and you just didn't think it was right, keeping him there. It's nearly an hour of questions before they seem satisfied.

You can't believe it when they just uncuff you back at the military base. Rather than let you walk away, the masked man pins you to the wall, pressing his body against yours. "You cannot return," he says bluntly.

You shake your head. "No, I can't go back."

He stares at you for a long moment. "Then, you are mine," he says with a growl, dragging you to his quarters without a further word, determined to cement your place at his side.

Alternate Ending

[themculibrary]

Tony And Rhodey (Ironhusbands) Masterlist 3

part one, part two

All I Know is Darling, I Was Made For Loving You (ao3) - orphan_account tony/rhodey, ana/edwin, roberta/terrence, past tony/tiberius, peggy/danielT, 25k

Summary: Tony Stark. Nobody needed to know anything beyond the name to make assumptions. He was a Stark, strong, independent, a man who had the power of nations at his disposal. Loved by the public yet called by the tabloids unlovable. So who expected him of all people to be born with a soulmark?

When James was born, nobody was surprised when they discovered a soulmark. But they were surprised at the location. It was directly on his chest, a detailed triangle surrounded by a circle.

Or..

What happens when fates collide? If you're Rhodey and Tony, you learn the lesson of love-it stretches beyond understanding.

Through the questions, the years, and the days lost to time, Rhodey and Tony know one thing: when you know you were made to love someone, it becomes your sole purpose.

A Soulmate Cannot Be A Mutual Acquaintance (ao3) - lovelyirony T, 12k

Summary: Tony and Rhodey are soulmates. They're in love with each other.

You'd think, at some point, that they might tell each other that.

Better Never Lasts Forever (ao3) - PlanetsCollide T, 4k

Summary: Five times Rhodey and Tony almost kissed, and one time they did.

Guide Me Home To You (ao3) - MagicaDraconia16 T, 31k

Summary: When his 15th birthday passed without him either gaining the spiked senses of a Sentinel or the empathic surge of a Guide, Tony Stark was marked as a Null. His MIT roommate and best friend James Rhodes had presented as a Guide but hadn't found his Sentinel yet.

When Tony is captured and held in Afghanistan for three months by the Ten Rings, it marks the longest he's ever been away from Rhodey since they first met all those years ago.

And after that . . . everything changes.

Incomplete Wish (ao3) - Rkssk G, 1k

Summary: Tony plays the piano for Rhodey. It's the first time and Rhodey's mind has some things to confess to himself.

i place your hands around my neck (ao3) - fanfictiongreenirises tony/rhodey, steve/bucky, happy/pepper N/R, 27k

Summary: "Rhodey could practically feel his lungs getting heavier again, weighed down by roots of plants that he’d thought would never take hold in him again."

 Or: the one where Rhodey's been pining over Tony for much longer than either of them realised and develops the Hanahaki disease

little fears (ao3) - sara_wolfe T, 1k

Summary: “I don’t want to do this, anymore.”

-or- Jim's got some insecurities about his relationship with Tony. Turns out, Tony does, too.

Love is Blind (ao3) - inukagome15 T, 17k

Summary: They say love is blind, but Rhodey thinks he and Tony have got things pretty well figured out at this point. They were plenty blind before, but now they're communicating and things are amazingly perfect. Even the team seems to think so, especially since Tony and Rogers have also worked their own problems out.

Pretend We're In Love (The Heartache Still Hurts) (ao3) - InsaneJuliann T, 51k

Summary: Rhodey's dad is dying, and what he's always wanted is for Rhodey to be happily married. Tony and Rhodey were best friends, and haven't spoken in years. But after a chance meeting at the airport, and a desperate, insane idea on Rhodey's part, they end up pretending to be engaged.

But how much of it is really pretend?

Reaching Out (ao3) - gokailyger84 G, 3k

Summary: After shutting down his company's weapons manufacturing division, Tony continues on his new path of self-accountability. Starting work on his new project, he realizes he's an amateur in this field and needs the help of someone more experienced.

Seas Between Us (ao3) - Copper_mouth M, 16k

Summary: There's a distance between them after Afghanistan, and it's widening each day. Rhodey is no longer Tony Stark's trusted right-hand man, his confidant and protector. Iron Man is.

Star Lit Dreams (ao3) - JarvisUandDUMEtoo G, 10k

Summary: Rhodey has come home for the holidays and decided to participate in a local charity event. The only problem? His assigned partner is none other than his ex boyfriend Tony Stark. Rhodey assumes its going to be difficult to be civil with Tony for long enough to finish the event, but instead he finds himself falling for Tony all over again.

still into you (ao3) - graveltotempo G, 13k

Summary: cause after all this time...

I'm still, into you

OR: James "Rhodey" Rhodes and Tony Stark's relationship, throughout the years.

A love story.

Tell Me You Love Me (I Want to Believe) (ao3) - inukagome15 T, 17k

Summary: As much as things have changed after the Accords, so much else hasn't and Tony has no idea where to even begin fixing things. Happiness seems like an elusive dream, no matter how much Rhodey encourages him to reach for it. After all, the one thing he wants to be happy will never happen. Will it?

Tender Loving Care For Lack of Better Titles (ao3) - AfroGohan T, 1k

Summary: The crash had punched the air out of him, throat clogged with spit and smoke as he climbed from one damaged section to the next.

A dreadful paralysis crept up his arm as he swept the wreckage for survivors. Equipment failure, the pilot said as they lost altitude and plummeted into the clearing. That was all she said before impact.

He hauled what and who he could before sprawling in the grass, staring up at the mid-morning sky as the smell of gasoline met his nostrils.

Rhodey lands in the hospital. Company makes it easier.

The Art of Persistence (ao3) - hollyandvice (hiasobi_writes) T, 15k

Summary: When James Rhodes first meets Tony Stark, they're at a party. He's watching a kid way too young to be here get drunk off his ass and all James can think is that whoever brought this kid here should really meet him in the parking lot because this shit is irresponsible and downright illegal.

The story of how Tony's drunken shenanigans lead him to the love of his life.

The Power Throuple of the Century (ao3) - holistic_alcoholic T, 3k

Summary: Life was good. Life was perfect. Nothing seemed amiss.

So when Steve Rogers, Captain Apple Pie and Goodness himself, cornered Tony with a worried expression and told him, in a voice both awkward and sorrowful, that his husband cheated on him with Iron Man, Tony was utterly unprepared.

Too Well Tangled In My Soul (ao3) - dixiehellcat G, 2k

Summary: A couple of decades of Tony and Rhodey, what grows between them, and what might threaten to keep them apart.

when we were eighteen (ao3) - graveltotempo, Violettavonviolet G, 12k

Summary: After the Rogues are pardoned and the world starts once more demanding too much of Tony, he and Rhodey say "fuck this" and go on a road trip together.

From New York to California, with the memories of another road trip 26 years ago before, and a love that has and will never fade.

you are gold (ao3) - makifa, thompsborn tony/rhodey, may/pepper M, 36k

Summary: His smile is tense and odd and twisted, too high on one end and turned a bit down on the other. He isn’t sitting, yet it feels as though he leaps to his feet upon their arrival anyway, bounding towards James with an almost relieved sounding, “Mr. Rhodes! It’s wonderful to meet you. I’m Tony, and this—” he gestures behind him, towards the teenager that only sinks lower in his seat, scowl deepening even further, “—is my son, Harley.”

Despite the clear disinterest in the situation, Harley still glances towards James and huffs out a reluctant, “Hello, Mr. Rhodes,” before turning his head towards the wall and acting as if none of them are there.

James smiles at him, even though he’s no longer looking. “Hello, Harley. It’s nice to meet you.” Then, turning towards Tony, he extends a hand and says, “And you, Mr. Stark. You can call me James.”

Tony’s face twists. “As long as you call me Tony."

-

this is not what james, former high school teacher on the hunt for a job, had expected when he applied to be a tutor at the start of the school year.

[iamsherlocked-1998]

𝕀ℕ 𝕋ℍ𝕀𝕊 𝕎𝕆ℝ𝕃𝔻

SUMMARY: The hope just come slowly.

WORDS: 700

WARNING: Nope, just two people meet in the end of the world. AU post-outbreak.

════ ⋆★⋆ ═════ ⋆★⋆ ════

In a world where all the comforts and life as we knew it simply ceased to exist, it was very difficult not to notice the vast expanse of it, it was as if everything had been amplified. The ravages of the past had left scars on all souls. After facing many harsh realities, such as the loss of your group in an attack by infected, you were simply limited to moving through the shattered remains of what was once society, a chance encounter made you meet a man called Joel Miller.

Two people found themselves in a desolate town, where hope seemed a distant memory. Joel, burdened by tragedy, had long embraced a solitary existence with no real purpose, defined by exhaustion. The initial meeting was a collision of unexpected warmth and genuine kindness. You had been injured while defending yourself from assailants who were trying to rob you, but instead of walking away like so many others, Joel was forced to help out of instinct.

You had to recognize that although you did your best to fight, if he had not appeared your fate would have been turned very dark. Over the next few days, as you slowly healed in the safety of the shelter, something began to develop, the man's exterior was quite gruff but you were good at figuring out when a person truly meant well.

Through shared stories and sincere conversations while he tended to your wounds, Joel discovered that an almost joyful, resilient spirit burned within you like he had not seen in anyone in a long time. Despite his cautious nature it was as if an ember of longing was rekindled in his own heart, whispering of better days that were yet to come. Without a doubt you too were moved by the compassion and strength that emanated from him, finding comfort in his presence.

As you ventured into the ruined world together, Joel's protective nature and the permanent reckless boldness of your actions fortunately complemented each other. In the face of danger, you stood shoulder to shoulder and your bond grew stronger with every setback you faced. The wasteland had a way of testing your stamina and the sleepless nights where your demons and ghosts returned to torture you both were not unusual.

It was for this reason that in moments of tranquility under a starry sky, you and Joel ended up finding relief in each other's touch in the light of a campfire. The constellations stretched into the immensity as the fingers intertwined, offering a source of relief and serenity. It was a sweet, tender connection, a respite from the harsh realities of his miserable existence.

Through the rare shared laughter and kind smiles, despite your partner's generally stoic demeanor, he simply let his guard down. Things slowly began to fall into place, piecing together the fragments of their broken and dusty pasts.

As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, the attachment you were developing for Joel deepened, becoming a ray of hope in the midst of the chaos. It was found joy in the simplest things, like sharing a meal together or finding a quiet moment to reflect in the middle of a storm.

Embracing each other, You discovered a sanctuary, a safe haven where scars, both physical and emotional, could heal. Without imagining it, You fed each other's dreams, whispered promises of a future where fear would not rule the world.

And so, in the midst of the disorder, You rewrote the initially indelible and treacherous impression that the universe had left on minds. United by the gift of serendipity, It was faced challenges together, guided by the unwavering belief that even the harshest of realities could be conquered if you found something to fight for.

You didn't mind admitting that you saw your experience as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, you can still thrive. You and Joel treasured every stolen moment, cherishing the gift you had found in each other and vowing to face whatever the future held, hand in hand until your so-called luck ran out.

[gith-zeri]

OCs as Good Roommates

Had a prompt sent my way by @sorcerous-caress , hopefully I got it right? It got pretty rambly.

Mina

One of those roommates you get in college, probably the best out of the bunch and the one who's usually followed up by the roommate from hell.

She lives part-time at the dorm, so you do have a large chunk of privacy by default. You find out she's an RN student with very odd hours, but she’s very respectful about your peace/sleep, like a mouse she's in and out. On the rare occasion that you've been startled by her scurrying about, she's quick to smooth things over by finding that one midnight snack you've been craving? How'd she know? It's like she can read your mind.

During the beginning of the semester, Mina offers to find you cheaper textbooks, physical or digital it doesn't matter; even those non-standard textbooks professors write themselves. Mina manages to find them dirt cheap or even free and gifts them to you. Just ignore some stains and copper smell, she uh, got them from some family associates.

She's a god send during midterms or when you're sick, healthy snacks, easy to read study guides, and enough medicine for anything you need; you'd think she's a walking pharmacy. You don't know how she does it, but somehow you're healthy almost immediately. You'll miss her when she's gone and are pretty sure she's going to be a wonderful nurse.

Felicia Aguilar

Felicia, is that the roommate you get when you're down on your luck; You find her by chance on a web listing, and apparently, she needed a roommate for a year. Supposedly her apartment is too quiet during the day? Whatever that means.

It's a little awkward at first, but Felicia offers to help carry your heavier items up the elevator and starts to organize for you; However, you'll get the impression she is more used to being leered at rather than talked to. As you gradually get settled in, you'll notice how clean everything is; at least, that's one thing you don't have to worry about.

Most of the apartment is already decorated, and you come to find out Felicia has a child(divorced)? Who lives part-time with her. You're free to decorate the living space as you please, save Felicia's room. The only stipulation is that you don't touch her child's room/plants. ( A week after you move in, you discover the "child" is a whole-ass college kid. How old is Felicia?)

She tends to be very busy most nights and tries to be as respectful as possible for it. You don't get much conversation out of her because of it, but the few moments you do talk, it's mostly her picking your brain about music. After a few convos, she'll start gifting you with albums or tickets for artists you mentioned. She tries to memorize what you like, at least for small talk purposes

Felicia keeps the fridge stocked, and she actually urges you to eat from it often. It's almost as if she doesn't eat and just buys groceries for appearances, but hey, at least someone eats them. Just don't open her ice box. She's very territorial over it for some reason.

Catalina

Catalina is the odd one out here because they actually own the place you room together. You find them from flyers, actually, old-fashioned, but it got the job done.

When you move in, it becomes very apparent that the situation is a case of empty nest syndrome on Catalina's part. A couple of off-handed remarks about grandchildren moving out(they don't seem that old)? And complaints about the lack of noise, paint a picture of a begrudgingly lonely individual.

Your half of the rent is dirt cheap, as Catalina covers the majority of the mortgage, and for what you get access to, it's really a steal on your end. A large master bedroom with a private on-suite bathroom and a large plot of land that Catalina doesn't care what you do with. They'll even throw in the offer of loaning one of their work trucks.

Catalina doesn't care about noise. Hell, they'll even courage it. It's your living space, live in it dammit.

Pets are okay, Catalina even has some of their own on the property. The pets are terrifying, but they are friendly to you. ( you swear you've seen one of the dogs walk around like a skinless man once.) Catalina will feed your pets for you, and take them out for exercise( they might come home with an animal carcass or two. Catalina just flatly states your pet is a good hunter, with no elaboration.)

You don't have to worry about house maintenance, whether it's yard work, plumbing, or even electrical. Catalina has you covered. She will grab you if you're nearby, however, just to teach you. You're not going to live with them forever and it's good to be self-sufficient. Now be good and grab the wrench for them.

[astrologer04449]

The Spiritual Role of the 8th House in Transformation

In Vedic astrology, the 8th house is often misunderstood. Associated with mystery, death, rebirth, and hidden knowledge, it holds the key to profound spiritual transformation. Far beyond fearsome labels, this house represents the soul’s journey through deep change—helping us evolve beyond material attachments and discover inner power. If you're curious about how the 8th house shapes your life, you can always begin with a free chat with astrologer at AstroSevaTalk.

What Does the 8th House Represent?

The 8th house governs:

Life’s mysteries: death, rebirth, occult knowledge

Sudden changes: transformation, crises, breakthroughs

Shared assets: inheritance, partner’s wealth

Hidden fears: emotional and psychological depths

Spiritual awakening: letting go of ego, discovering the eternal

Unlike other houses that deal with external experiences, the 8th house focuses on what happens within—the inner alchemy that turns pain into wisdom.

The Spiritual Journey of the 8th House

Every soul is destined to face moments of darkness and light. The 8th house teaches us:

✅ How to embrace loss and see it as a path to new beginnings ✅ The art of surrendering ego to discover true strength ✅ The importance of trusting the unseen, including divine timing ✅ How to heal through introspection, meditation, and spiritual practices

For personalized insight into how your 8th house influences your spiritual evolution, it’s best to chat with an astrologer who can study your planetary positions, aspects, and Dasha periods.

Key Planets in the 8th House: What They Reveal

🌙 Moon in 8th House – Highly intuitive, emotional depth, need for inner security. Transformation often comes through emotional challenges.

🔥 Mars in 8th House – Intense energy, may face power struggles. Spiritual lessons in controlling passion and using strength for constructive purposes.

💫 Jupiter in 8th House – Natural guide toward wisdom through life’s mysteries. Blessings through spiritual or hidden knowledge.

🌟 Saturn in 8th House – Slow but deep transformation. Teaches patience, responsibility, and resilience during hardships.

If you’re unsure about your 8th house placements, a free chat with an astrologer can help you identify these and understand their impact.

The 8th House and Kundalini Energy

Spiritually, the 8th house governs the awakening of Kundalini Shakti—the coiled energy at the base of the spine. This house represents:

The process of inner awakening

The destruction of ignorance

The rise of spiritual consciousness

When the 8th house activates, it may trigger life events that push you toward self-discovery, meditation, and higher wisdom. The crises it brings are not punishments—but invitations to transform.

How the 8th House Influences Relationships

This house also plays a key role in intimacy and shared energies. It shows:

💖 How you bond at a soul level 💖 Your trust issues and vulnerability 💖 Your potential for deep emotional and spiritual unions

For those facing relationship challenges or seeking deeper connection, it’s wise to talk with an astrologer to decode 8th house influences on love, trust, and partnership.

Common Questions About the 8th House

🔹 Why does the 8th house bring sudden events? The 8th house teaches non-attachment. Sudden changes help break patterns and push spiritual growth.

🔹 Is the 8th house only about negativity? No! It’s a house of rebirth. After loss or crisis, it offers the chance for renewal and enlightenment.

🔹 How do I know if my 8th house is strong or weak? Your planetary placements, aspects, and Dasha periods reveal this. A quick chat with an astrologer at AstroSevaTalk will give clarity.

Why Seek Astrological Guidance for 8th House Matters?

Understanding your 8th house is not easy—it requires deep, intuitive reading. The spiritual lessons of this house unfold over time and can be complex. By choosing to talk with astrologer, you gain:

Guidance on how to navigate life’s sudden changes

Remedies for difficult planetary placements

Tips for harnessing 8th house energy for personal growth

Insights into occult studies, healing, and spiritual practices

Astrologers at AstroSevaTalk provide 24x7 astrology chat support, so you can connect whenever you feel the need.

How to Begin Your Journey

🌠 Visit AstroSevaTalk 🌠 Start your free chat with astrologer 🌠 Share your birth details for accurate analysis 🌠 Ask about your 8th house, spiritual path, or transformation 🌠 Upgrade anytime to talk with astrologer for deeper guidance

Final Thoughts

The 8th house is not a house of fear—it’s a house of power. Its lessons, though challenging, guide you to shed illusions and embrace your true self. With the right astrological guidance, you can use 8th house energies to rise above difficulties, awaken your inner strength, and walk the path of spiritual evolution.

Are you ready to unlock the mysteries of your 8th house? Begin your transformation journey with a free chat with an astrologer today!

[thepersonalwords]

Success comes as a result of working towards fulfilling your potential and closing the gap between who you are now and who you are capable of becoming.

Mensah Oteh, The Best Chance: A Guide to Discovering Your Purpose, Reaching Your Potential, Experiencing Fulfilment and Achieving Success in Any Area of Life

[imraabiul]

📚BOOK: Ikigai

Get FREE AudioBook Here

Don't miss out on the opportunity to get the captivating audio book which will last for 3 Months! Simply click on the provided link to register for your copy on Audible and begin your unforgettable listening experience right away.

Bring meaning and joy to all your days with this internationally best-selling guide to the Japanese concept of ikigai - the happiness of always being busy - as revealed by the daily habits of the world's longest-living people.

"Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years." (Japanese proverb)

According to the Japanese, everyone has an ikigai - a reason for living. And according to the residents of the Japanese village with the world's longest-living people, finding it is the key to a happier and longer life. Having a strong sense of ikigai - the place where passion, mission, vocation, and profession intersect - means that each day is infused with meaning.

It's the reason we get up in the morning. It's also the reason many Japanese never really retire (in fact there's no word in Japanese that means retire in the sense it does in English): They remain active and work at what they enjoy, because they've found a real purpose in life - the happiness of always being busy.

In researching this book, the authors interviewed the residents of the Japanese village with the highest percentage of 100-year-olds - one of the world's Blue Zones. Ikigai reveals the secrets to their longevity and happiness: how they eat, how they move, how they work, how they foster collaboration and community, and - their best-kept secret - how they find the ikigai that brings satisfaction to their lives. And it provides practical tools to help you discover your own ikigai. Because who doesn't want to find happiness in every day?

12 Reasons Why Reading Books Should Be Part of Your Life 📚

1. Knowledge Highway: Books offer a vast reservoir of knowledge on virtually any topic imaginable. Dive deep into history, science, philosophy, or explore new hobbies and interests.

2. Enhanced Vocabulary: Regular reading exposes you to a wider range of vocabulary, improving your communication skills and comprehension.

3. Memory Boost: Studies suggest that reading can help sharpen your memory and cognitive function, keeping your mind active and engaged.

4. Stress Reduction: Curling up with a good book can be a form of mental escape, offering a temporary reprieve from daily anxieties and a chance to unwind.

5. Improved Focus and Concentration: In today's fast-paced world filled with distractions, reading strengthens your ability to focus and concentrate for extended periods.

6. Empathy and Perspective: Stepping into the shoes of fictional characters allows you to develop empathy and gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives.

7. Enhanced Creativity: Reading exposes you to new ideas and thought processes, potentially sparking your own creativity and problem-solving skills.

8. Stronger Writing Skills: Immersing yourself in well-written prose can improve your writing style, sentence structure, and overall communication clarity.

9. Improved Sleep Quality: Swap screen time for a book before bed. The calming nature of reading can help you relax and unwind, promoting better sleep quality.

Make reading a part of your daily routine and experience these amazing benefits! ����✨

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#philosophy #wisdom #khondokerrabiul

#richardfeynman #oscarwilde #terencemckenna #dostoevsky #virginiawoolf #carljung #sorenkierkegaard #stoicism #stoic #stoicphilosophy #friedrichnietzsche #seneca #marcusaurelius #epictetus #live #growthmindset #philosopher #qouteoftheday #quote #deep #readers #booktok #readmorebooks #reading #bookrecommendations #read #booklover

[techniquetodayy]

How To Utilize The Semrush Keyword Magic Tool

Semrush is among the best SEO tools available in the market. Many professional bloggers and top industry leaders widely use Semrush. Semrush offers a magical tool named Semrush Keyword Magic Tool that makes keyword research much easier. Keyword research is one of the most prominent pillars of SEO, which helps improve business by leveraging organic traffic by targeting the right keywords. In this article, we will learn about the Semrush Keyword Magic Tool, its features, filters, and how to use it.

What is the Semrush Keyword Magic tool?

The Keyword Magic tool is a powerful keyword research tool on Semrush. It allows you to gain access to the publicly available billion keywords and offers an adaptive interface for research. All you need to do is enter the required word that you want to research into the search bar. This tool shows you a dynamic table with related terms split into subtropics.

Features of the Semrush Keyword Magic tool

Some of the key factors of the Semrush Keyword magic tools are as follows:

Extensive keyword database: This tool has access to a large public database of more than a billion words covering a variety of industries and niches. This database helps the user find the most relevant keyword for the target audience.

Automated keyword grouping: This tool automatically groups related keywords into topic-specific categories, making it easy to identify the most relevant keywords by organizing them.

Intent analysis: The Keyword Magic Tool lets you determine which keywords are transactional, navigational, or informative. It can help you better understand the intent behind search queries, allowing you to focus on keywords that have a higher chance of producing leads or sales.

Search volume calculations: This tool can help you discover how frequently people search for certain phrases. It gives you precise estimates of search volume for each keyword, which is required for setting priorities for your keyword research.

Keyword difficulty estimations: For every keyword, the Keyword Magic Tool offers difficulty estimates that show how competitive it is to rank for that particular phrase. By focusing on phrases that you have a strong probability of ranking for, you can use this information to help you prioritize your keyword research efforts.

SERP Features Opportunities: This tool allows you to determine which terms result in SERP elements like Knowledge Panels and Featured Snippets. You can then use this information to optimize your content so that it appears in these worthwhile search results.

Advanced filtering and sorting: The Keyword Magic Tool allows you to filter and arrange your keyword lists based on various factors, such as search volume, keyword difficulty, purpose, and SERP attributes. It facilitates the process of identifying the best keywords for your requirements.

Save, manage and export keyword lists: This tool allows you to export your keyword lists to CSV and XLS files, as well as other Semrush tools, and save them for later use.

Conclusion

Hence, you must go through this ultimate guide to get deeper knowledge regarding this what role the semrush keyword magic tool plays in uplifting your website.

[bestghanatours]

Ghana's 'Beyond the Return': A Journey Through History and Hope.

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey that bridges centuries of history with a vision for the future? Welcome to Ghana's "Beyond the Return" initiative – a powerful invitation to explore, connect, and invest in a land rich with cultural heritage and promising opportunities.

The Echoes of History: Ghana and the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

Ghana, a jewel on Africa's western coast, holds a pivotal place in world history. For centuries, it was a major hub in the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, a dark chapter that saw millions of Africans forcibly transported to the Americas between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Today, Ghana's coast is dotted with stark reminders of this era:

- Cape Coast Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fortress once held enslaved Africans before their harrowing journey across the Atlantic.

- Elmina Castle: The oldest European building in sub-Saharan Africa, it played a significant role in the slave trade.

These sites serve not just as tourist attractions, but as powerful memorials and educational centers, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the past and its lasting impact on our world today.

Beyond the Return: A Bridge to the Future.

In 2019, Ghana launched the "Year of Return," marking 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia. The initiative was a resounding success, attracting thousands of visitors from the African diaspora and beyond.

Building on this momentum, Ghana introduced "Beyond the Return" – a visionary initiative that looks to the future while acknowledging the past. Here's what makes it special:

1. Cultural Reconnection: Experience vibrant festivals, traditional ceremonies, and immersive cultural exchanges.

2. Investment Opportunities: Discover Ghana's growing sectors, from technology to agriculture, ripe for international collaboration.

3. Simplified Migration: Learn about programs designed to make it easier for people of African descent to visit, live, or invest in Ghana.

4. Tourism with Purpose: Explore Ghana's stunning landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush national parks, while contributing to local communities.

Why Choose Ghana for Your Next Journey?

Ghana offers a unique blend of historical significance and future potential:

- Rich History: Dive deep into centuries of West African culture and global history.

- Warm Hospitality: Experience the legendary Ghanaian hospitality, known as "Akwaaba."

- Natural Beauty: From the bustling streets of Accra to the serene shores of Lake Volta, Ghana's diverse landscapes await.

- Economic Opportunities: Be part of Ghana's growing economy, with sectors like tech, agriculture, and tourism booming.

Plan Your Transformative Trip Today.

Whether you're seeking to connect with your roots, explore new investment opportunities, or simply experience the warmth and beauty of West Africa, Ghana's "Beyond the Return" initiative offers something for everyone.

Ready to start your journey? Contact Best Ghana Tours today to plan your personalized Ghanaian adventure. Let us guide you through a land where history meets hope, and where every traveler can be part of a brighter future.

Don't miss this chance to be part of a global movement. Book your trip to Ghana now and go beyond the return – into a world of discovery, connection, and opportunity.

Start Planning Your Ghana Adventure!

[hardtreekoala]

Understanding Soulmates: A Connection Beyond Words

Introduction

The concept of a soulmate has been captivating humanity for centuries, inspiring poets, writers, and dreamers alike. The idea that there is one special person out there who completes us, understands us on a profound level, and brings out the best in us is both comforting and intriguing. In this article, we will explore the concept of a soulmate, its different interpretations, and its significance in our lives.

Defining a Soulmate

A soulmate is commonly described as a person with whom one shares an extraordinary and deep connection that transcends time, space, and circumstances. This connection is believed to go beyond the realms of logic and physical attraction, involving an inexplicable bond between two individuals. Some describe it as a feeling of familiarity and recognition upon meeting, as if they have known each other for a lifetime, even if they've just met.

Types of Soulmates

Romantic Soulmate: This is the most commonly perceived type of soulmate. It refers to the partner with whom we feel an intense romantic connection. Romantic soulmates are believed to bring passion, understanding, and a sense of completeness to each other's lives.

Platonic Soulmate: This type of soulmate is not necessarily a romantic partner but someone with whom we share a deep and profound connection. It could be a best friend, a mentor, or even a family member. Platonic soulmates often understand us on a profound level, offering unwavering support and companionship.

Karmic Soulmate: Karmic soulmates are thought to come into our lives for a specific purpose – to teach us important life lessons or to help us grow emotionally and spiritually. These connections may be intense and sometimes challenging, but they serve as catalysts for personal development.

The Significance of Soulmate Connections

Self-Discovery: Soulmates often mirror parts of ourselves that we may not be fully aware of. They can help us discover hidden strengths, weaknesses, and aspects of our personality that require attention or development.

Growth and Transformation: Soulmate connections can be catalysts for growth and personal transformation. These relationships often challenge us to overcome obstacles, break patterns, and become better versions of ourselves.

Unconditional Support: Soulmates provide unwavering support and understanding, creating a safe space for vulnerability and emotional expression.

Spiritual Connection: Many view soulmate connections as a sign of spiritual alignment and destiny. The belief in soulmates often extends beyond a single lifetime, suggesting a cosmic connection that transcends time.

Finding Your Soulmate

The idea of finding a soulmate can be both exciting and daunting. While some people believe soulmates are predestined, others see it as a matter of chance or serendipity. Regardless of beliefs, there are several key aspects to keep in mind:

Self-Awareness: Understanding oneself is crucial in recognizing a soulmate connection. Being aware of personal values, goals, and desires can help attract a compatible partner.

Patience: Finding a soulmate can take time. Rushing into relationships without genuine connection may lead to disappointment.

Openness: Remaining open-minded and receptive to new experiences and people can increase the likelihood of encountering a soulmate.

Conclusion

The concept of a soulmate goes beyond mere romantic notions, encompassing deep connections, personal growth, and spiritual understanding. Whether through romantic, platonic, or karmic connections, soulmates play significant roles in our lives, guiding us towards self-discovery and transformation. As we navigate the journey of life, it is essential to stay open to the possibility of encountering these extraordinary connections that transcend the ordinary and enrich our existence.

The sketch you need to MANIFEST love Ready to meet your true Soulmate?

[steampunk-sorcerer]

I saw one singular person ask me to elaborate on the reaper queen thing so listen up kids it’s story time.

The original grim reaper was a kind, loving man. He had been around since the beginning of time. He had multitudes of loyal followers, those who protected humanity and other life from wicked things that would hasten them to his domain before their time, and aided him in guiding their souls home to him when the time did come. He cared for life, you see, even if his domain was its end.

But he was lonely. Even with all of his followers, there was one thing he truly wanted, that any being who desires it has a right to have.

Family.

So he created a daughter by speaking with the beings that facilitated the creation of life. They warned him that she would have to find her own way there, due to the nature of her birth. He could not collect her himself. Should she fail, her journey would begin again.

And so he waited. He waited many, many, MANY years. Watched her many lifetimes, thousands, as she struggled to understand her purpose, struggled to find her way home.

This pained him. He could not help her. He could not reach out to her. It got so bad, that he could no longer watch her struggle. So he sought out help.

He spoke to an ancient, dark being, a demon lord, who agreed to help him get his daughter home faster… but for a price.

“What is it? No price is too high.”

“Ah, you may come to regret those words…” The demon lord cackled. “Your daughter will know the taste of blood and feel the pain of loss.”

“You will not hurt her. That is the only price I will not pay.”

“It is not her that will be harmed.”

“Alright. Whatever may come, I will pay the price by my own hand.”

“It is agreed, then. Your daughter will come home to you.”

And that she did. Her latest life was chased by beasts down an alley, cornered, nearly doomed again, right into the territory of a patrolling reaper, who dispatched the beasts with one sweep of his blade. Upon laying eyes on the young woman, he realized there was something special about her… so he offered her a hand and guided her to the realm below. Perhaps his king could find use in this strange girl? A new apprentice had not been taken by anyone in quite some time.

Of course, when she reached the realm of the dead, and knelt at his throne, he pulled her into his arms with a warm embrace. “Welcome home, my daughter.”

She was trained to use the abilities she didn’t understand, taught the same kindness and love for life that her father possessed… even if she discovered she had a dark craving that required occasional attention. Ah… so that was the taste of blood that was spoken of. When she spoke with her father, he apologized for having left her with such a curse. She was angry, but learned to accept it.

She soon became a fully-fledged member of his people, one of his best, and was as beloved as he was for her attitude towards life and love for her fellow reapers. She became his second, his right hand, respected and cherished.

She even found love in a man who wished to split from his reputation as a monster thanks to his very own curse. The curse of the moon. He was not mindless as a wolf, he only did what he had to do to survive. A nasty fight, a confession, and many interactions later, the two declared love for one another, and the reaper girl made to lead him to her home and introduce him to her father, hoping he would be accepting and not the typical overprotective dad type.

But it was not to be. As she entered the throne room, she witnessed her father being ran through by the blade of something-no, someone-dark and horrible. She tried to attack them, but they were gone in an instant before she had a chance to do anything.

No matter… it was too late, and her father’s wounds too great. He died in her arms, telling her how proud he was, how much he loved her, and that it was her duty to protect her people now. She swore to him she would.

That was the pain of loss she was to feel.

In a fit of near-blind rage, she hunted down her father’s killer, tracked him to his kingdom. The demon lord laughed in her face. Taunted her. Told her that her father had agreed to this price, traded his life for a chance to lead his daughter home. He got what he wanted, did he not? Even if it cost him his life. But, alas, she is here for revenge, and who is he to deny her the chance to try? He orders his legions to stand down, and they begin combat.

The battle is vicious and brutal. She is a formidable opponent, and launches an attack he can hardly defend himself against, to his utter surprise. Foolishly, he continues his taunting as they fight, trying to get her to drop her guard. But he fails.

He fails *hard.*

He dies at her hand, and her quest for vengeance is complete. She leaves his realm, his armies stunned and kneeling at her feet as she walks away.

She has to return home, after all. She has a kingdom to lead. Death does not rest because it is grieving. But Death is kind and loving, despite all that she has been through, and will continue her father’s policy of protecting life, so that it may come to her realm when the time is right.

[microbitmedia]

The Ultimate Guide to ASO Keyword Research for Apps

In today’s saturated mobile app market, standing out is more challenging than ever. With millions of apps on Google Play Store and Apple App Store, App Store Optimization (ASO) is a crucial strategy for any developer or marketer. One of the core pillars of ASO keyword research — finding and optimizing the right terms users type when searching for an app. In this article, we’ll explore what ASO keyword research is, why it matters, and how you can do it effectively.

What is ASO Keyword Research?

ASO keyword research involves identifying the keywords and phrases that potential users use to search for apps like yours. By targeting these keywords in your app’s title, subtitle, description, and metadata, you can improve its visibility in search results and attract more downloads organically.

Think of ASO keyword research as SEO (Search Engine Optimization), but for app stores. Just like websites compete for Google search rankings, apps compete for rankings in app stores based on keywords.

Why is Keyword Research Important for ASO?

A well-researched keyword strategy can directly impact your app’s performance by:

Increasing Discoverability: Ranking for popular and relevant keywords exposes your app to more users.

Driving Organic Downloads: Users are more likely to download apps that appear at the top of search results.

Reducing User Acquisition Costs: Organic traffic from ASO is free, unlike paid advertising.

Reaching Target Audience: Using precise keywords helps attract users who are genuinely interested in your app.

Without effective keyword research, even the best apps can remain invisible to potential users.

Steps to Conduct Effective ASO Keyword Research

1. Understand Your Audience

Start by identifying who your target users are and what problems your app solves for them. Think about the words they would use when searching for an app like yours. Create a list of possible search queries from a user’s perspective.

2. Analyze Competitors

Study the top-ranking apps in your niche. Analyze their titles, subtitles, descriptions, and reviews to uncover the keywords they are targeting. Competitor analysis gives you insights into what works and highlights opportunities you can exploit.

3. Use ASO Tools

Several ASO tools can help automate and enhance your keyword research process. Popular options include:

AppTweak

Sensor Tower

MobileAction

App Radar

Keyword Tool.io (for Google Play)

These tools provide keyword suggestions, search volume data, competition scores, and trends to help you prioritize the best keywords.

4. Focus on Relevance and Difficulty

Not all keywords are worth targeting. Focus on keywords that are:

Highly relevant to your app’s purpose

Moderately competitive, giving you a realistic chance to rank

High in search volume to drive substantial traffic

Balance is key — avoid overly competitive keywords initially and aim for long-tail keywords (specific phrases with lower competition).

5. Optimize Your Metadata

Incorporate your chosen keywords naturally in:

App Title

Subtitle (iOS) or Short Description (Google Play)

Full Description (Google Play)

Keyword Field (iOS)

Avoid keyword stuffing — the goal is to improve rankings while keeping your listing readable and engaging for users.

6. Monitor and Update Regularly

ASO is an ongoing process. Monitor your app’s keyword rankings, installs, and user feedback regularly. Trends shift, user behavior evolves, and competitors adapt — so update your keywords and metadata accordingly to stay competitive.

Conclusion

Effective ASO keyword research is the foundation of a successful app marketing strategy. By investing time in understanding your audience, analyzing competitors, leveraging ASO tools, and continuously optimizing your keywords, you can improve your app’s visibility and drive organic growth.

In a crowded app marketplace, strong keyword research can make the difference between being discovered and being overlooked. Start today, and watch your app rise in the rankings!