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Exactly 30 years ago, a US F-16 recorded his first kill and also the first using an AIM-120 AMRAAM

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 12/27/2022 - 22:33 in Military, War Zones

General Gary North poses for a photo in front of the F-16 he was piloting when he shot down an Iraqi MiG-25.

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On December 27, 1992, four U.S. Air Force F-16 fighters, led by Lieutenant Colonel Gary North, found an Iraqi MiG 25 that crossed the air exclusion zone in southern Iraq. The F-16 held the Iraqi aircraft in the air exclusion zone, preventing it from escaping north. One of the F-16s, arriving from the north, fired an AIM-120A against the Soviet-building fighter. Find out how this fight was.

In April 1991, shortly after the U.S. and its coalition allies expelled Iraqi military forces from Kuwait in Operation Desert Storm, the U.S. established an air exclusion zone in northern Iraq. This was soon followed by the establishment of a similar zone over southern Iraq to enforce United Nations Security Council Resolution 688.

This resolution guided the protection of Shiite Muslims against attacks by military forces under the control of Saddam Hussein, the Sunni Muslim dictator of Iraq, and a series of other sanctions. To support the resolution and protect the Shiites, the southern air exclusion zone covered the entire south of Iraq, from the 32-degree latitude line to the south to the borders of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The air exclusion zone applied to fixed and rotating wing aircraft, but in October 1991, the southern air exclusion zone also became a "d driving ban" zone and the U.S. Central Command Joint Task Force for Southeast Asia (JTF-SWA) was entrusted with the execution.

Lieutenant Colonel Gary North, commander of the 33rd FS; SSgt. Roy Murray, team chief; SA Steven Ely, assistant to the chief of the crew, pose with the F-16D #90-0778 that Lieutenant Colonel North was piloting when he shot down an Iraqi MiG-25 over the "No Fly Zone" on December 27, 1992. Mounted on the tips of the wings are the advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles AIM-120A. The location of this photo is at Shaw Air Base, on April 1, 1993.

Generally, most Southern Watch missions consisted of fighter scans and patrols, suppression of enemy air defenses, aerial reconnaissance and air command and control using AWACS E-3 Sentry aircraft.

However, the air operations conducted by Saddam Hussein's air force during 91-92 showed that he had no intention of complying with resolution 688. In fact, as explained by Donald J. McCarthy, Jr. in his book "The Raptors All F-15 and F-16 aerial combat victories", countless military combats between coalition forces and Iraqi command and control systems, anti-aircraft artillery (AAA) sites, radar sites and land-to-air missile sites (SAM) occurred since the end of the Gulf War in 1991 until the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

One of the most famous clashes took place on Sunday, December 27, 1992, when an Iraqi MiG-25 fighter (NATO name "Foxbat") violated the air exclusion zone and entered airspace south of the 33rd parallel.

U.S. Air Force Colonel Gary North undergoes pre-flight checks on F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft before flying on a training mission at Luke Air Base in Arizona. The green star on the aircraft represents the Iraqi Mig-25 he shot down.

On that day, at approximately 10:42 a.m. local time, then captain Gary "Nordo" North (who piloted the F-16D "90-0778", indicative Benji 41) led a flight of four F-16s on a routine OSW Mission. While the Viper pilots were refueling from a KC-135, they heard urgent transmissions between a formation of four F-15s in the air exclusion zone and AWACS controllers. An Iraqi fighter (that F-15, having been close enough to obtain a visual acquisition, confirmed it as a "Foxbat") crossed the border to the air exclusion zone and was now accelerating north safely with the F-15 in pursuit. The Foxbat quickly reached the north of the 30th parallel and the F-15, now with little fuel, left the area.

As told by Craig Brown in his book "Debrief: a complete history of U.S. air engagements 1981 to the present", North and his wing refueled only enough fuel to allow them to cover the designated time at the station in the no-fly zone and crossed the border with southern Iraq while the third and fourth aircraft of their group continued to refuel. In a few minutes, the AWACS controllers ordered the two F-16s to head to an Iraqi aircraft heading south towards the thirty-two parallel to ensure that the Bogey did not cross to the air exclusion zone. A few minutes later, the AWACS controllers directed the Vipers to intercept another high-speed contact that originated in the north and crossed to the air exclusion zone approximately thirty miles west of the F-16 formation. The Iraqi fighter was forced to turn north safely before the F-16, armed with two advanced mid-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAMs) AIM-120A and two AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, could attack him.

MiG-25 of the Iraqi Air Force.

The AWACS radar monitored another aircraft, northeast of the F-16, flying south towards the air exclusion zone, but this time, while the F-16s flew to intercept the fighter, an Iraqi SAM radar began to track the Vipers. At this point, North ordered the third and fourth aircraft in his group, now fully charged with fuel, to fly north at their best speed. Again the AWACS radar reported a radar contact entering the air exclusion zone west of the Northern formation at high speed at 30,000 feet.

Bogey was flying directly to them from the east.

Nordo asked for a tactical displacement to the north to "fit" the F-16 between the MiG and parallel 30, creating a blocking maneuver and trapping the Iraqi fighter in prohibited airspace. The MiG could not escape back to Iraqi territory without fighting. "Someone would die in the next two minutes, and it wouldn't be me or my wing," North said.

North requested authorization to shoot by visually identifying the aircraft - a MiG-25 Foxbat armed with radar-guided AA-6 "Acrid" missiles. He instructed his ward to employ his electronic interference pod and again requested authorization to shoot. He finally heard "BANDIT-BANDIT-BANDIT, CLEARED TO KILL" about his headset. Approximately three nautical miles, fifteen degrees high from the nose and fifteen degrees from the right bank to the north, he blocked the MiG-25 and fired an AMRAAM, which led to the impact and totally destroyed the Foxbat built in Russia.

It took less than 15 minutes from the moment North left the KC-135 to shoot down the MiG. The video below is the original footage of the slaughter described in this article.

On October 28, 1998, Colonel Paul "PK" White interviewed North for an article of his own, "Nordos' MiG Kill", where North described the moment of the missile's impact: "I saw three separate detonations, the nose and left wing broke instantly and the tail continued in the main body of the jet and, finally, a huge fireball."

Noteworthy, this fight marked not only the first aerial victory won by an American F-16, but also the first shooting of an AIM-120 AMRAAM.

Tags: Military AviationF-16 Fighting FalconHISTORYIqAF - Iraqi Air Force / Iraqi Air ForceUSAF - United States Air Force / US Air ForceWar Zones - Iraq

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. Uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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[yngai]

i really wish more of ada's lore was at the forefront of her narratives through out the series because there's so many interesting details about her actions between the games that most people ignore, since they're relegated to guide books or in-game files expanded on RE.net & i don't expect everyone to become brain poisoned like i have. i don't remember where exactly i read that ada forwarded luis' e-mails to the us government to accelerate ashley's rescue but i recall stumbling upon it while browsing project umbrella, i'll have to look for it again, combining this with the detail from damnation's prerelease material (which i also have to find, i promise i'm not lying) that it was ada who leaked footage of lickers in eastern europe to ensure the united states sends agents to investigate BOW presence in the eastern slav republic. the ressie wiki also mentions that the us army was following the asian broker to amparo as he interfaced with javier's men but i have to go through all of the operation javier files to source the claim. fandom owned wikis are kinda dogshit.

she's a little string puller! dragging her favorite dog around (leon) to make him relive the trauma of raccoon city over & over again because he is a pawn she can easily predict, he's much easier to play than any of her other contacts or connections & he'll always take on the brunt of her work because he's more of an apt killer than she'll ever be, & their fairly unhealthy bond formed in the bowels of hell will always ensure her survival because he'd already failed to save her once & won't abide losing her again. there is a mutual trust between them that leon would much rather be without & he never quite gets to see her as anything but a mysterious woman that keeps an eye out for him, whatever her motivations might be. he will never get to know that part of the reason for his fall into depression & alcoholism is a certain spy in red who has cashed in his usefulness to her on at least three separate occasions, & the only time they meet on accident after RC is tall oaks, when ada's grown a little tired of him playing her white knight ( 'watch out for yourself.' / 'appreciate the gesture, but i'm a big girl. i can handle this one alone, leon.' ) & is a little too dedicated to carrying out this operation by herself since simmons is a very personal demon, who almost makes her eat her words if not for old, reliable leon coming to her rescue.

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Tuesday, January 31

Ellis: Does this fit the profile of any Sub-T you're familiar with? Riley: Not subterrestrial, Major. Extraterrestrial. (Leads them to the rock at the end of the trench) It came outta that. Ellis: Miller, set the trackers for a protein signature. Graham: Yes sir. Riley: No good, Major. This alkaloid's breaking down at an accelerated rate. It's dissolving too fast to track. Ellis: You got a better idea? Riley: Thing came from space. Gotta be some trace radiation. Ellis: We have Geiger counters in the packs. Riley: Shouldn't be too much background gamma noise out here. Ellis: Break 'em out.

~~Buffy Season 5 Episode #87: "Listening To Fear"~~

The Sunnydale Herald is looking for at least one new editor! Contributing to the Herald is a great way to get your Buffy on! Find out more here. If you saw the phrase "HTML template" in our previous calls for editors and that was what made you decide that Herald duties aren't for you, you may be glad to hear that we've set up an alternative posting process!

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

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[vivekbsworld]

Premium Cars for Rent in Trivandrum: Elevate Your Travel Experience

Whether you’re visiting Trivandrum for business or leisure, the right mode of transportation can greatly enhance your travel experience. premium cars for rent in Trivandrum offer a perfect blend of comfort, style, and performance, making them an excellent choice for those who seek more than just a basic ride. In Trivandrum, a city that beautifully combines tradition with modernity, renting a premium car allows you to explore the city with sophistication and ease.

Why Choose a Premium Car Rental in Trivandrum?

Enhanced Comfort and Luxury Premium cars are designed with comfort in mind. From plush leather seats to advanced climate control and noise reduction, these vehicles offer a luxurious driving experience that ensures you travel in utmost comfort.

Stylish and Impressive Arriving in a premium car makes a statement. Whether you’re attending a business meeting, a special event, or simply exploring the city, driving a stylish vehicle like a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi adds an element of sophistication to your presence.

Superior Performance Premium cars are known for their exceptional performance. Whether it’s the smooth acceleration, precise handling, or advanced safety features, driving a premium vehicle offers a superior experience on the road.

Modern Technology Premium cars come equipped with the latest technology, including advanced navigation systems, entertainment options, and driver-assistance features. This ensures that your journey is not only comfortable but also convenient and enjoyable.

Wide Range of Choices From sleek sedans to powerful SUVs, Trivandrum’s premium car rental services offer a variety of options to cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for a car for a few hours or several days, there’s a premium vehicle that suits your requirements.

Popular Premium Cars for Rent in Trivandrum

BMW 5 Series The BMW 5 Series is a perfect blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Its dynamic design and powerful engine make it a favorite choice for both business travelers and those looking for a stylish ride.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Known for its elegance and advanced features, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers a premium driving experience. With its refined interior and smooth ride, it’s ideal for those who want to travel in style and comfort.

Audi A6 The Audi A6 is a sophisticated choice for premium car rentals. Its sleek design, advanced technology, and comfortable interiors make it a popular option for business trips and special occasions.

Jaguar XE The Jaguar XE is a luxury sedan that combines style and performance. With its eye-catching design and responsive handling, it’s perfect for those who want a car that stands out.

Volvo XC60 For those who prefer an SUV, the Volvo XC60 offers both luxury and practicality. Its spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and elegant design make it an excellent choice for family trips or exploring the scenic areas around Trivandrum.

Top Premium Car Rental Services in Trivandrum

Southgate Travels Southgate Travels offers a wide range of premium cars, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi models. Known for their exceptional service and well-maintained vehicles, they are a popular choice for premium car rentals in Trivandrum. Tips for Renting a Premium Car in Trivandrum

Book in Advance Premium cars are in high demand, especially during peak seasons. To ensure you get the car of your choice, it’s advisable to book your rental in advance.

Inspect the Vehicle Before driving off, inspect the car to ensure it’s in perfect condition. Check for any damages and make sure all the features are functioning properly.

Understand the Terms and Conditions Carefully review the rental agreement, including details about insurance, mileage limits, and fuel policies. This will help you avoid any unexpected charges.

Choose the Right Car for Your Needs Consider your requirements before choosing a car. If you’re attending a formal event, a luxury sedan might be ideal. For family trips or exploring the countryside, an SUV could be a better fit.

Check for Additional Services Some rental services offer additional perks such as GPS navigation, child seats, or 24/7 roadside assistance. Inquire about these options to enhance your rental experience.

Exploring Trivandrum in a Premium Car

Trivandrum offers a mix of cultural landmarks, scenic spots, and modern attractions. With a premium car, you can comfortably explore the city’s top destinations, including the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the serene Kovalam Beach, and the beautiful Napier Museum. A premium car also allows you to venture out to nearby attractions such as the tranquil Varkala Beach or the lush Ponmudi Hills.

Conclusion

Renting a premium car in Trivandrum offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re in the city for business, leisure, or a special event, a premium vehicle enhances your experience and allows you to explore Trivandrum in style.

[apacbusinesstimes]

Line Man Wongnai’s Journey Towards E-Commerce Supremacy

In this article, we discuss one of the leading e-commerce services platforms in Thailand called Line Man Wongnai. Wongnai provides multiple services from food delivery to taxis by connecting consumers with local businesses, riders, restaurants, etc. The article also drives insights into the journey of Line Man Wongnai from having fewer users to becoming one of the most used e-commerce platforms in Thailand.   

Founding Story of Line Man Wongnai 

Line Man Wongnai is a Thailand-based company that aims to empower local businesses with an e-commerce platform for services. Line Man Wongnai was established in the year 2010 and it was founded by classmates  Yod Chinsupakul, Pattrawoot ‘Boy’ Suesatayasilp, Suparit ‘Boy’ Krityakien, and Worawee ‘Parn’ Sattayavinij. It was initially started as a food delivery and faced numerous challenges in the beginning. It had fewer restaurants and did not have many reviews and users. 

Later in 2012, Wongnai saw growth and became the fastest-growing startup in Thailand. This was possible due to the adoption of smartphones and Thais’ increased use of technology. This period was called the Golden Age of Thai startups, Wongnai’s users increased in turn restaurant information in its database. Hence by grabbing this opportunity Wongnai decided to expand the business and was recognized by investors and the public. Accounting for this, Wongnai raised Series A funding from Recruit Strategic Partners, which was used in product development and marketing. This increased their users from tens of thousands to millions in a short span. 

About Line Man Wongnai

Line Man Wongnai is an e-commerce platform and the mission is to make a significant impact by helping people live better and build a strong digital infrastructure for Thailand. The company is dedicated to empowering all local businesses with their e-commerce services. The platform connects consumers, riders, and local businesses to improve the daily lives of all parties. The core values of the company are to innovate faster, respect everyone, and go deeper.

Wongnai in 2014 expanded its business to provincial cities like Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Chon Buri, Hua Hin, Hat Yai, and Phuket. In 2015, Wongnai discovered beauty salons and spas, and in 2016, Wongnai X Line Man – allowed Line Man users to order food delivered through restaurants available in the database. Wongnai cooking which started in 2017 was used to find and share food recipes with users. Wongnai Travel allows one to explore attractions, book accommodations, and reviews. In 2016 Line Man launched as the first on-demand O2O (Online-to-Online) service from Thailand. With the in-house developed software, it functioned as a consolidated subsidiary under LINE Thailand, exclusively serving the Thai market.

In 2020, Wongnai’s collaboration with LINE MAN showcased a successful impact on the market. Both of them decided to join forces with a capital of USD 110 million from BRV Capital Management. Following this LINE MAN merged with Wongnai and established a new entity called ‘LINE MAN Wongnai’ in the year 2020. The vision of this collaboration is to become Thailand’s leading E-commerce platform for services, by focusing on creating an end-to-end food ecosystem. LINE MAN Wongnai provides various services including food delivery, taxi, grocery delivery, messenger, restaurant solutions, and local business reviews. 

Awards and Recognitions

In 2022, the LINE MAN app was recognized as one of Thailand’s Top Apps in the Apple App Store Awards 2022. It was one of just six Thai-originated apps in the top 20 list of free apps. By 2021, Wongnai’s food delivery service had successfully reached all 77 provinces in the country, and in June 2022, the Messenger service followed suit.

LINE MAN Wongnai aims to ‘Help Thai people live better’ through its accelerated expansion across the country. By combining tech talent and resources, the company wants to enhance tech infrastructure and provide exceptional services to improve the living experience for all.

Visit More : https://apacbusinesstimes.com/line-man-wongnais-journey-towards-e-commerce-supremacy/

[zov911]

Title: Transforming Manufacturing Growth Through Digital Marketing The manufacturing landscape has always been one ruled by innovation and adaption, however, modern times demand more than just technological prowess - they require digital sophistication. The advent of digital marketing has radically transformed the way industries promote their products and services, and the manufacturing sector is no exception. Tapping into this transformative force can drive manufacturing growth exponentially. With the expanding digital marketplace, the concept of 'boundaries' is progressively disappearing. Businesses are embracing strategies that are harmonious with this shift to snag the attention of a broader spectrum of potential customers. One of these strategies is Search Engine Optimization (SEO), an indispensable tool within the realm of digital marketing. SEO, a method to improve a website's visibility, is like a magnetic field pulling prospects towards your manufacturing business. Proper usage of SEO can ensure that manufacturing companies rank high on search engine results pages (SERPs), hence boosting site traffic and yielding higher conversion rates. By meticulously incorporating relevant keywords associated with your offerings, you can position your products in front of a global audience. Content marketing is another dynamic facet within the digital marketing sphere. It enables manufacturing businesses to weave compelling narratives about their services and products. Well-curated blog posts, e-books, or webinar series, apart from providing valuable industry insight, can set you apart from your competitors. Businesses can leverage innovative content marketing strategies to tell their brand story, highlight their unique selling propositions, and build a connection with prospects and customers alike. Moreover, the rise of social media platforms has opened new vistas for businesses to showcase their offerings and interact directly with a target audience. Manufacturing companies can leverage these platforms to create brand awareness, engage with their audience, and even handle customer complaints swiftly. Social media marketing can deliver direct feedback, opening doors for real-time performance analysis and improvement. While these aspects of digital marketing hold great potential, it’s not just about solo acts; it’s more about how these elements can transform individually and collectively to form a well-rounded digital marketing strategy. This strategy should be tailored to evolve with the changes in market preferences, technological advancements, and customer behaviour. Ultimately, a flexible, data-driven digital marketing plan can invigorate the manufacturing sector, bringing about a wave of progressive change. It can redefine traditional business models, enhance competitiveness, and accelerate growth trajectories. By harnessing the power of digital marketing, manufacturing companies can leap from the confines of conventional promotion techniques to the realm of real-time, result-oriented marketing strategies. It is an exciting era for manufacturing growth, and those who wield the force of digital marketing effectively will stand at the forefront of the industry. Therefore, in the pursuit of growth and sustainability, it is time for businesses in the manufacturing sector to consider digital marketing not as an optional add-on, but as an integral part of their strategic business model. The digital era is here, and it beckons the daring, the innovative, and the transformative. Case Study: "Streamlining ACME Manufacturing Corporation's Growth via Digital Marketing" ACME Manufacturing Corporation, a mid-sized firm specializing in automotive parts, was struggling to maintain a steady market share in the wake of growing competition. Despite producing top-end items, their relatively outdated marketing strategies couldn't match the reach or appeal of their digitally advanced competitors. With reduced demand and secondary visibility in the market, ACME was at a significant growth crossroads.

This scenario underlines the essential demonstrative study of how digital marketing can enhance a manufacturing company's performance and growth. Seeking innovative solutions, ACME decided to step into the digital marketing arena. They primarily aimed to increase brand visibility, reach wider audiences, and ultimately augment sales. Strategic, planned steps were taken to ensure success in this new marketing venture. 1. Establishing Online Presence: They revitalized their outdated website with the help of a professional website design team. This not only gave them a distinctive digital identity but also improved the user interface and experience, attracting more customer engagement. 2. Devising a SEO Strategy: ACME adopted a comprehensive approach to search engine optimization (SEO). They focused on keyword optimization, backlinking, meta-descriptions, constantly updating content with relevancy and quality, thus enhancing their website's ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). 3. Social Media Optimization: ACME made its presence felt on social media platforms with transcribed video tutorials on part installations, success stories, customer reviews, and regular updates about their latest products. This helped them connect to a younger demographic. 4. Email Marketing: Personalized emails were sent to their clients giving updates about upcoming sales, new products, or even simple greetings on special occasions. This kept ACME 'top-of-mind' for their customers. 5. Inbound Marketing: They focused on creating valuable content to attract customers. Whether it was informative blog posts about industry trends or how-to guides for their multitudes of parts, all this compelling content helped to drive customer engagement and turn them into loyal, repeat purchasers. 6. Analytics: All digital marketing efforts were backed by a strong focus on analytics. Regularly tracking key metrics flashed insights on what strategies were working and where they needed to re-adjust. Transparency and accountability of digital marketing was a huge attraction for ACME. Post digital transformation, ACME saw a significant improvement in their bottom line. Online leads increased by 75%, overall sales grew by 35% while marketing costs decreased by 25% compared to traditional marketing methods. This success story of ACME showcases how digital marketing can revolutionize the growth of manufacturing companies. Giving businesses realistic and achievable steps to follow, the case of ACME serves as an effective demonstration of the tangible benefits brought about by digital marketing strategies in manufacturing. Broadening the company's reach and visibility while simultaneously reducing costs and enabling better control over the marketing process, digital marketing can be the key to shifting gears and accelerating the growth of manufacturing firms in the modern age. "Ready to revolutionize your manufacturing growth with digital marketing? Don't wait! Click here to schedule a consultation with our expert team today, and accelerate your business toward a more profitable future!" Start Your Digital Transformation Now! "According to a 2020 B2B marketing report by Marketing Profs and Content Marketing Institute, 70% of manufacturing marketers have adopted content marketing as an essential tool in their digital marketing strategy."

[techadventuress]

The New York-based startup, which provides a scale-out, unstructured data storage solution designed to eliminate tiered storage (i.e. setups that move data between high- and low-cost storage hardware), today announced that it secured $118 million in a Series E round led by Fidelity Ventures with participation from New Enterprise Associates, BOND Capital, Drive Capital, Nvidia, Dell, Goldman Sachs, Tiger Global, Commonfund, Norwest, 83North, Greenfield and Next47.

The round values Vast at $9.1 billion post-money, and brings the startup’s total raised to $381 million.

“The explosion of interest in AI and the need for modern infrastructure that can support these workloads in the last year has been a boon for Vast’s business and positions the company for continued growth and adoption with the enterprise,” Vast co-founder and CEO Renen Hallak told TechCrunch in an email interview. “Given the future-proof nature of Vast’s offering, data-driven organizations see Vast as a valuable investment in the future of their business.”

Hallak co-founded Vast in 2016 with Jeff Denworth, Shachar Fienblit (who previously held leadership roles at Kaminario and IBM) and Alon Horev (formerly of Cisco and IBM). The way Hallak tells it, the co-founders shared a vision of creating a next-gen data management platform — one that leveraged commodity hardware to deliver faster access to bigger datasets for AI workloads.

Vast’s founding team subsequently designed a new storage architecture and software infrastructure layer, operating in stealth until 2019, when the company began selling to customers.

“Stitching together legacy enterprise infrastructure is time-consuming and complex, and its inefficiencies make it an expensive endeavor,” Hallak said. “The legacy cloud recipe for building AI infrastructure comprises disparate technologies that, due to their underlying architecture, don’t take full advantage of modern technologies that offer improved performance, simplified operations and cost-savings … [And] without the right infrastructure in place, organizations can’t efficiently enable their AI and GPU-powered investments with the data access needed for AI and deep learning.”

While Vast has competition in vendors like Databricks, Hallak asserts that it has substantial first-mover advantage. There’s some truth to that it seems, judging by Vast’s books.

Vast’s annual recurring revenue now stands at $200 million and the company, which recently inked a strategic partnership with HPE, is growing 3.3x year over year, Hallak says. Cash flow has been positive for the last 12 months, while Vast’s customer base has grown to include brands like Pixar and Zoom.

Now with more than 700 employees worldwide, Vast plans to put the new tranche toward expanding its business reach, with an emphasis on Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe.

“Vast is a software company that operates on commodity hardware, so the pandemic and supply chain issues that plagued many businesses in the last few years did not have a material impact on Vast or its partners and customers,” Hallak said. “While Vast has continued to grow, scale and operate efficiently, this new investment will further advance Vast’s mission to deliver a new category of infrastructure that puts data at the center of how systems think, react and discover.”

Today, Vast unifies storage, database and compute engine services in a platform built to power AI and GPU-accelerated workloads across datacenters and clouds. Customers can use Vast to manage unstructured and structured data across their preferred private, public or hybrid clouds — data ranging from videos and images to text, data streams and edge device data.

[educationedge0123]

The Top PMP Exam Prep Books Every Exam Taker Needs

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized credential for project managers, demonstrating their expertise, skills, and knowledge in leading and directing projects. As the PMP exam is known for its rigor and complexity, a solid study plan is essential for success. One of the key components of this plan is choosing the right exam prep books. In this article, we’ll explore the top PMP exam prep books that every exam taker needs to consider for a well-rounded and effective study experience.

1. “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)”

Published by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the “PMBOK® Guide” is the foundational resource for the PMP exam. It outlines the standard processes, tools, and techniques for project management. While not the most engaging read, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the content as it forms the basis for the exam. The guide provides the framework upon which other study materials build, making it an essential reference.

2. “PMP Exam Prep” by Rita Mulcahy

This book by Rita Mulcahy is widely regarded as one of the best resources for PMP exam preparation. It breaks down complex concepts into understandable language and provides practical examples and exercises to reinforce learning. The book also includes a comprehensive set of practice questions and tips for exam success. Rita Mulcahy’s approach helps candidates understand the reasoning behind project management concepts, making it easier to apply them during the exam.

3. “PMP Exam Prep: Accelerated Learning to Pass the Project Management Professional Exam” by Andy Crowe

Andy Crowe’s book is another popular choice among PMP aspirants. It offers a clear and straightforward approach to understanding the PMBOK® Guide’s concepts and processes. The book includes memory aids, exam tips, and real-world examples to help solidify understanding. The included online practice exams closely simulate the actual PMP exam, allowing candidates to assess their readiness.

4. “Head First PMP” by Jennifer Greene and Andrew Stellman

For those looking for a more engaging and visually appealing learning experience, “Head First PMP” is an excellent option. This book employs a unique teaching style with visual aids, illustrations, and humor to break down complex topics. It focuses on understanding concepts deeply rather than rote memorization. The book includes practice questions and scenarios to apply the knowledge gained.

5. “PMP® Exam Simplified: Updated for 2021 Exam” by Aileen Ellis

Aileen Ellis’s book offers a simplified approach to PMP exam preparation. It distills the key concepts from the PMBOK® Guide and presents them in an easy-to-understand format. The book includes memory aids, flowcharts, and real-world examples, making it suitable for candidates who want to grasp the essentials efficiently.

6. “PMP® Certification All-in-One For Dummies” by Cynthia Snyder Dionisio and Stanley E. Portny

The “For Dummies” series is known for its user-friendly approach to complex subjects. This PMP exam prep book follows suit by providing comprehensive coverage of the exam material in an accessible manner. It includes practice questions, memory aids, and a review of essential project management principles.

In conclusion, choosing the right PMP exam prep book is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a certified Project Management Professional. Each of the mentioned books offers a unique approach and features to cater to various learning styles and preferences. Regardless of which book(s) you choose, a disciplined study plan, dedication, and consistent practice with sample questions and mock exams will contribute significantly to your success on the PMP exam.

[braveminablog]

The Power of Powering Through

“You need to power through”  - these are the exact same words I heard from one of our Guest Speakers during our class under the subject of CEO Series -Trends and Issues in Business and Management. Which made me reflect and ponder about my life as a Professional individual and being an MBA student. In the past few years especially during the pandemic, there were a lot of  uncertainties, challenges and tribulations  that all of us have faced. The challenge to adapt to a new normal such as online meetings, social distancing, the stress and humiliation whether we would be able to keep our jobs to make ends meet given that all businesses also faced financial crisis and also the separation anxiety of not being able to meet with your friends, loved ones in a manner where it is too easy to meet face-to-face and above all, some people died because of the COVID-19 virus. Those two years in the pandemic from 2020 to 2022 were indeed a roller coaster ride. Towards the abyss of the pandemic, indeed all of us were able to power through. We saw how Filipinos manifest their “pakikipagkapwa tao” and “pakikipagtulungan sa kapwa” especially when community pantries were built to serve food for one another. Businesses also thrived harder to accelerate their digital adoption through different e-commerce platforms and making digital banking available and accessible in their respective businesses. Indeed, these are the clear examples of powering through even if the odds may not be in our own favor. Zooming in further how this power of powering through is being done in our own respective organizations especially during the time of pandemic, we all tried to adopt in using online applications to make collaborations easier. Instead of the usual face-to-face meetings, we learned the value and importance of technology. Before, it was a challenge to book a big room to hold big meetings. Now that we have online platforms where meetings can be held, it makes things easier for us. Second, our presentation materials were now being done online. Instead of creating multiple versions and sending back-and-forth copies of slide presentations, this was made easier through online file collaborations. 

Indeed, the pandemic may have hit us very hard where uncertainties were all evident right straight towards our faces. But taking heart to be accountable and responsible gave us hope to be able to power through. Choosing to power through is what makes us resilient business leaders. Regardless of the circumstance, whether another pandemic or crisis will go our ways, let us all remember that no one can beat you if you are wise enough to make use of what is left in your resources. Powering through also means having a better perspective that these challenges are good opportunities for us to grow and reach our full potential. That is why, as leaders, we should never give up and always remember that there is indeed great power in powering through regardless of what is ahead of us. Take heart, have faith in ourselves and towards our Dear Creator. And remember, whether it be another pandemic, challenge or whatever it is that is in front of us, we have the power to change our situations to help us become better versions of ourselves. 

[timrux]

Top Five Tips for Students to Learn English Quickly

English is an important language since it gives you global exposure. Learning English is essential for those who want to work in the computer and IT sectors. Moreover, the language brings various other benefits to corporate professionals.

The schools give importance to learning two languages. Firstly, the students should learn the local language well to communicate with people. Secondly, it is equally crucial to learn another foreign language to communicate well with people globally..

Parents who want their kids to learn English must find a good English tuition centre. In the following section, you can find a guide to learning English quickly.

1. Read English Books and Magazines

Reading classic English novels and storybooks is the best way to learn English faster. Students can find e-books nowadays if they cannot find English books in the local bookstores. Additionally, you should read English journals or magazines.

Reading at least one daily newspaper report can also help improve your English learning. You can learn the language faster by watching English cartoons and TV shows. Nowadays, you can access many English web series through various OTT platforms.

2. Learn a New Word Everyday

You should enrich your vocabulary if you want to learn English faster. Every learner must have a pocket English dictionary to learn a new word daily. Learning new words will help you master the language quickly. Moreover, you can write and communicate in English with more confidence.

3. Group Discussions in Schools

Kids and teenagers often need to attend school group discussion sessions to improve their communication skills. Students must attend such sessions and try speaking in English with teachers and other students. Talking to others in a foreign language will boost your confidence and help you learn English faster.

4. Subscribe to YouTube Channels

YouTube has become a crucial social platform where people can teach, learn, and earn by showing their talents. Students who want to learn English quickly can subscribe to various YouTube channels for a free course. You will not pay any time learning from the experts on their videos.

However, learning through YouTube should not be the single source of learning. You must find other learning sources to brush up on your skills and learn English quickly.

5. Find a Private Tutor

The best way of learning English quickly is to search for a private tutor who can come to your place and teach English. Nowadays, you can easily find private tutors by searching online. Alternatively, parents can ask friends, colleagues, and relatives for references. Choosing a good teacher will ensure that your kid obtains the best education.

You can find a secondary English tuition centre nearby for your kid. The tuition centre helps students find the right teachers in various subjects, including English.

So, these are some proven tips to accelerate your English learning skill. English has a global footprint, and you can communicate with people in different countries through the language. Therefore, keeping English as a second language can prove an excellent idea. Moreover, learning English is not a complex thing.

[paynxt360]

WhatsApp to drive social commerce growth for Meta in 2023

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has failed to achieve significant growth revenue through its social commerce initiatives on Facebook and Instagram. With less-than-expected revenue growth, the firm has scaled down its social commerce capabilities on both Facebook and Instagram over the last few quarters. This also includes the February 2023 announcement when the firm said that it will stop offering users live shopping on Instagram, starting March 16.

This might seem as if Meta is completely retreating from its social commerce initiatives and focusing more on advertising revenue, which had brought much success for the firm over the years. Although the firm is focused on reviving its advertising revenue growth and is also investing in new-age technologies such as Metaverse, it has an equal focus on the social commerce segment. However, rather than undertaking social commerce initiatives through Instagram and Facebook, Meta is looking at WhatsApp to compete in the growing market globally.

In November 2022, WhatsApp launched an in-app business directory in Brazil, making the Latin American nation the first market where the firm had launched such a feature. The new feature will enable Brazilian WhatsApp users to search businesses, view products, initiate a conversation with sellers, and now with the central bank’s approval, complete payment transactions with merchants.

In March 2023, Meta received approval from the Brazilian central bank to launch a merchant payment system, thereby building on the existing peer-to-peer payment system. With the approval, merchants small and large will be able to receive payments from consumers directly through the messaging platform, thereby streamlining social commerce activities.

The regulatory approval means that WhatsApp has gradually turned itself from a messaging app to a social commerce giant in Brazil, where consumers can discover, explore, and make purchases without ever leaving the app. Being one of the largest markets in terms of registered users in the Latin American region, the launch of social commerce capabilities in Brazil is a strategic move from WhatsApp. The firm is expected to use the Brazilian market as a blueprint to launch social commerce capabilities in the global market.

WhatsApp has been seeking to partner with leading retailers, including e-commerce marketplaces such as MercadoLibre, in Brazil. With the launch of the merchant payment system, Meta is expected to forge a series of alliances with retailers across product categories from the short to medium-term perspective. This will accelerate its foray into the social commerce segment in the Latin American region.

Notably, WhatsApp has been making big strides in the global social commerce industry. In India, the social messaging platform partnered with Reliance JioMart. Under the partnership, WhatsApp and JioMart launched an end-to-end shopping experience for users on the messaging platform.

JioMart has experienced a jump in quarterly orders via WhatsApp. Since the launch, the order volume has increased 9x for the firm. Furthermore, there is an uptick in its active customer base, which is increasing by 37% month on month.

With businesses, such as JioMart, reporting strong growth in order volume and active customer base, PayNXT360 expects more businesses to partner with WhatsApp in India over the next few quarters. In February 2023, WhatsApp partnered with metro rail service providers across India, thereby enabling travelers to book their tickets through the messaging app. Such collaborations will continue to drive the growth of the social commerce industry in India.

Alongside India, WhatsApp and Meta have also trialed out social commerce capabilities in Europe. In partnership with Carrefour, for instance, WhatsApp enabled French consumers to place orders through WhatsApp in December 2022. The initiative enabled consumers to order products across non-food categories, such as gaming, high-tech, and household appliances. Over the next 12 months, WhatsApp is expected to launch more such initiatives across Europe, as it continues to make a big push in the social commerce segment.

These initiatives, undertaken by WhatsApp in Brazil, India, and France, are a clear indication of the fact that Meta is continuing its push in the growing global social commerce industry. With WhatsApp’s strong user base and presence across different regions, Meta can lead the industry growth over the next three to four years.

To know more and gain a deeper understanding of the global social commerce market, click here.

[bmenginespecialists]

BMW 5 Series Engine: Most Common Problems

People always give respect to BMW due to its elegant design and specs. They launch very famous cars due to their famous engineering and excellent track record which attract the users for BMW 5 Series. They offer mid-range luxury models that gain more popularity and these make it easy to fill the gap between the users with a furious engine and the best family car. Since 1972 in Europe these machines have gained popularity on the roads. Most people buy second hand cars because they are recognised as a good investment. People love these vehicles due to their durability and keeping its exterior and interior for a long lifespan. But you must be aware of a few things that create major issues for your BMW 5 Series models. So everyone must be aware and vigilant from these issues because being a car they create disturbance for you. 

Cooling Problem:

In this case most of the time the water pump and thermostat create problems in the BMW 5 Series. So keep eye open on the servicing of the engine if light is indicating or the temperature gauge must watch. If the engine is too hot then the cooling system will be responsible for it. If this issue is not fixed timely then it can lead to the cause of the whole engine. So timely fixing this issue is very important.

Air conditioning Problem:

This issue is frequently reported by users in this BMW 5 series. This issue can be felt as the fan speed changing without any immediate alert and the system only blowing out cold air at low setting. So everyone must make sure one thing is fixed at the specific level before buying a second hand car.

SunRoof Problem:

Do you want to buy the Sunroof for your BMW 5 Series? Check very carefully the sound of the vehicle while driving it because mostly it occurs due to a rubber seal which is not correctly placed on the vehicle due production fault. This fault also creates an impact on the fuel economy of the vehicle and increases the fuel cost and fixes it as soon as possible.

Fuel Pump Problem:

In the E 60 of the BMW 5 series, people widely report that the 535i model creates fuel pump issues, engine performance goes poorly and engine not performing idly. In this case the user must replace the whole pump and fix it as soon as possible. Keep an open eye on following things like disturbing acceleration, misfiring continuously and excessive chase of stalling.     

Tensioners Problem:

Tensioners and idler pulleys create an unusual sound that's very shocking which is rising from the engine bay. In any case you hear noise from the engine then we recommend you to check engine belts quickly or any other damage. If the belt is misplaced from its position then it damages the cooling system.

Timing Chain Problem:

BMW officially said the M47/N47 engine was free from the timing chain error but unfortunately this part also suffered due to sudden snaps which make it useless for users.  So you must make sure your BMW 5 series has been fully serviced or not. Also make sure everything is inspected. BMW 5 series is an excellent car and also perfect for families. When you want combo features then BMW is a good choice that gives you comfort, quality and prestige. They are not just limited to it, also giving an excellent fuel economy and sufficient space to owners to enjoy a memorable journey. But usually people buy second hand BMW models and face these issues that mentioned above. So now they have no need to worry about it. BM Engine Specialists provide the best platform and also offer top quality reconditioned BMW engines at cheap rates. So don't hesitate just contact our expert staff and book an appointment confidently.

Read the full article

[6extinction]

Jim Robinson Accelerated Series books has more compelling stories which played a real role in these captivating stories. These types of e-books are easily available on all the handheld devices through which we can easily to know about the whole series of accelerated series e-books.

[lex-the-flex]

A Pure Heart 

Luke Skywalker x reader 

Summary: Through vast teachings in the bamboo forest, the Jedi Knight must choose between his beliefs and his own heart.

Word Count: 774

Warning(s): PURE AND ABSOLUTE FLUFF (since Luke honestly deserves it) a touch of angst, and a brief mention of injuries.

A/N: The new episode of The Book of Boba Fett filled me with so much nostalgia especially with seeing Luke! And since this man ALWAYS gives me serotonin, I thought I’d finally write for him. Feedback is appreciated and enjoy!

Soft rays of sunlight beamed through the sea of bamboo rods, encasing the peaceful forest in its warmth as the sun climbed in the sky. Remaining still, a wonderful sense of tranquility filled your veins, offering you a temporary balance. Quietly turning in your sleep, the faint scent of the tiny fire spread across the campsite with a single strand of smoke.

Inhaling a deep breath, you silently hummed to yourself, enjoying the atmosphere. Among the bird’s chirping, another noise filled your ears causing you to lift your head in confusion.

Was that… frogs?

Walking down the trail to investigate the noise, a yawn escaped your lips just as you adjusted the collar to your series of dark colored robes. Running your fingers through your hair, you pulled it to the side, and began to tie it away from your face as the croaking grew louder.

The sun’s reflection bounced off the few ponds, forcing you to squint your e/c eyes. Staying hidden in the shade, you glanced at the sight of Grogu’s eyes growing wider while a small colony of his favorite amphibians floated in the air. Smirking at the sight, you then gazed at the person responsible for this act – Luke Skywalker.

His right arm was extended upwards as he reached out with the Force, an ability you both heavily relied on for survival.

But it was more than an ability. It was a powerful ally that constructed life itself. It allowed everything in the Galaxy to have purpose, regardless of their status. However, for Jedi, the Force was essential.

Otherwise without Equilibrium, the dark would outweigh the light, allowing nothing to remain.

Not wanting to disturb his lesson, you turn to head back to the campsite, when your friend’s voice abruptly stops you.

“Don’t go. Your presence is soothing.”

Inching closer towards the boys, Luke announced taking a break with a walk and stood to face you. Offering his hand to you, he held your shoulder with his gloved hand, basking in your company.

“You’re pushing him too hard. Give Grogu time to think, Luke.” You advise, turning your attention to the Child.

“I have to push him, Y/N. Just like I am to you. You should be resting.” Luke explains, motioning toward your bandaged ankle.

Glancing down at the gauze peeking out from your boot, you simply huff at Luke’s concern.

“I’m fine, Luke. It will be healed within the day. I just wish we had something for the pain.” You reply, following Luke towards the trailhead.

“Don’t worry, we’ll make a supply run soon. But training must be our first priority.” Luke says, guiding his hand backwards to allow Grogu to follow.

“And it is. We’re doing everything we can, after all, both Ben and Yoda taught you all they knew. As did my own father, then you.” You reply, looking at the man with confidence.

“I know. I just wish…” Luke mumbles, briefly stopping in the middle of the trail.

“What? What do you wish for?” You ask, with your brows furrowing in concern.

“You.” Luke responds, wasting no time answering your question.

Your lips part as his answer makes your heartbeat accelerate. Gently closing his arms around your own, Luke brings his head up to look you in the eye.

“I know the Jedi aren’t meant to have attachments, as it could destroy us. But with you, I believe that it’ll make us stronger, as I am a man of my own destiny. I want you to be mine above all else.” Luke confesses, and he leans his forehead against yours, with the tips of your noses touching slightly.

Closing your eyes, the calming sense of Luke’s aura fills your own, bringing a longing feeling of relief as you’d never thought to hear these words.

“But what about the Code? Won’t this change our lives?” You ask, squeezing his arms just a little tighter.

“Even if it does, it doesn’t change the fact that we carry the lifestyle of our generation at our hips. I’ve always wanted this from the moment I met you. We can rewrite the Code, and teach others to love.” Luke declares, with his hand gently holding the back of your neck.

Nodding in time with his declaration, a smile overtakes Skywalker’s lips and he lightly laughs with you.

“I’ve always wondered why you’ve been whispering to R2 at night. I knew it must’ve been good news.” You joke, trying to hold back a laugh.

“You tease.” Luke fires back, before inching closer to you, closing his lips on yours, sharing your first kiss together as the prime Jedi you are.

Tagging ~

@dreamliners

@beautifulsoulsublime

@bonky-n-steeb

@yurys-pyon

@teebarnes

@atlas-of-a-human-soul

@artedimichelangelo

@viscountmelbourne

@visionsofsweettea

@bibbidibobbidibucky

@sunflowergurl98

@callmemoonlight123

@sunshinebuckybarnes

@winter-soldier-101

@a-o-m

@ikaris-whore

@iamhavingamomenthere-crowley

@httpshargreeves

@maybeimart

@awkwardharpy

@mrs-brekker15

@mr-brekker15

@apxtelemasworld

[pietropatrol]

Păpuşă (Part 3)

Read Part 1 Part 2

A/N: Fic Friday is back! 

Pietro Maximoff liked to get on your nerves and he was good at it because you were annoyed simply at his mere presence. Now Steve has sent the pair of you on an undercover mission as husband and wife. But the mission may have been more complicated then intended, for more than one reason.

Pairing: Pietro x Reader Warnings: language, angst, kidnap Words: 1,800

3 years ago

Pietro Maximoff was accustomed to attractive women, but something felt different about the one who glided across his line of sight. Y/H/C peaked out from your winter hat, tendrils framing your face. A look of ease in your eyes as you changed direction in a split second, weaving in and out of other not so graceful skaters.

"Piet," the voice of his twin sister pulling his eyes away from you. Wanda struggled to stay upright on the ice.

"You know, for someone with superpowers, you can't skate to save your life." Pietro closed the few feet between them and steadied her. She narrowed his eyes at him.

"And you can?"

"I can at least stand, dear sister. Where did Vision go?" Pietro took her hands and pulled her with him around the rink.

"To get hot chocolate, I'm afraid the line is probably long. He's already been gone for ten minutes."

"He'll be fine, he is the most patient of us all." He reassured Wanda in their native tongue.

You skated into his vision once again, accelerating across open space before throwing yourself into the air and landing perfectly on one foot.

Pietro halted and Wanda stumbled back into you.

You quickly caught her and flashed her a sheepish smile. "Sorry, didn't mean to invade your space. I get carried away on the ice."

"No, no. It was my idiot brother's fault, he should be the one to apologize." Wanda gave Pietro a withering look.

Your Y/E/C landed on the speedster for the first time and a small breath caught in your throat. The smirk that seemed to be at home on his face invited you in as he regarded you with intrigue.

"I'm Wanda, and this is Pietro." Wanda stepped to the side to allow Pietro into the conversation, leaving the space in between the pair of you open. He offered out his hand.

"I'm Y/N." You took it, his hand engulfing your own.

“It is… nice to me you, Y/N.” Your name rolling off his tongue sent a thrill through you.

“Hot chocolate?” Vision floated into the group, balancing 3 Styrofoam cups in hand. You recognized the android.

Adrenaline shot through you when you realized who the siblings were associated with. You had been careless coming to New York City. The Avengers had been beginning to target your assignment when you had escaped. They must have known you worked for the Rambovas. Now they were here to get you.

“Long line?” Wand inquired as she plucked the cup from the top.

“I probably could have gone to your favorite coffee shop on the other side of town and it would have been quicker.” Vision passed another cup to Pietro. Vision’s attention turned to you, literally frozen on the spot. You had iced yourself into the skates and onto the rink. “Um, sorry, my apologies. I’m Vision.” He gave an awkward wave.

“I-I ha-have to go.” Maybe they weren’t here for you, but you weren’t going to stick around to find out. There was a loud shatter as you yanked yourself of the rink, cracking the ice around you.

“Wait!“ Pietro made to dart after you, but Wanda held him back. She looked from the fractured ice to Vision.

“That’s not normal.”

Vision frowned. “Indeed, we will bring it up with the team as soon as we get back. We should be able to track her down.”

****

Now

A neat stack of books on your desk by the same author piqued Pietro’s interest. The spines were cracked and frayed like you had read them a million times. Pietro knew you liked to read, but he had never seen you read this series.

He glanced behind his shoulder to your sleeping form, counting your deep breaths to make sure you were not pretending to get out having to explain your past to Pietro. He had pushed you for more information, but you insisted you needed to sleep off whatever they had injected the pair of you with.

“I have nothing else better to do,” he murmured to himself. Pietro grabbed the book off the top, he knew you would have put them in order. The memory of you moving into his room and meticulously organizing your bookshelf was bittersweet. You had trusted him completely and the way you openly adored him made his stomach churn with regret. The past year had only been scowls and annoyance. But it was an improvement from your empty eyes.  

Pietro sat on the floor in a corner of the room, keeping you in his line of sight. With a heavy sigh at yours and his predicament, he opened the book to try and not think about it for the time being.

It was an easy read, even for Pietro whose English reading skills still weren’t the greatest. The books seemed to be written for young teen girls, that was what he could glean from the first few chapters. The main character was a 16-year-old girl pulled into a world of teens with special abilities being used as spies. The fifth chapter had him physically pause.

“Y/N Y/L/N?” he traced your name with his finger, trying to make sense of it. Your name was a character in the book. He read further. She was a 16-year-old, experienced spy for the Government, abilities she would not disclose, and closed off to the main character. Suspicion wormed into Pietro’s brain. What was the likelihood you coincidently shared a name with a character in the book who was almost the equivalent of your real life? You weren’t closed off, at least when you and Pietro were speaking terms, and he was very much aware of your abilities. From both a positive and negative receiving end. But you had abilities and worked for someone before the Avengers. Was Y/N even your name? Why had you never told him about any of this?

The suspicion only grew the more he read on. Personality-wise, as Pietro knew you, you didn’t share much in common with the character. But stylistically as she was described and some of her common phrases were too familiar.

You began to stir, still feeling a slight numbness from the sedative. A groan escaped your lips as you pushed yourself up, they had not been gentle transporting your body.

“Piet…ro?” You silently cussed yourself out for almost using his pet name, but not seeing him upon waking up stoked a level of concern you had suppressed.

“Down here.” His tone was flat and clipped. You looked over to the corner of your room by your closet. He met your eyes with a level gaze and he frowned at you. “Care to explain something to me?” He held up a book, his thumb holding his place in the book. He had already read about half of it.

Dread washed over you, but you kept a calm demeanor. “My favorite book as a kid? What about it?”

“Don’t play dumb, Y/N. If that’s even your name.” He dog eared his page, you had to stop from yelling at him for doing that, because that was not an argument he would want to entertain. Pietro’s eyes had narrowed in on you and he was going to focus on what he wanted to.

“Y/N is my name. It’s the only name I’ve known.” That wasn’t a lie.

“You’re omitting, omitting is lying, remember?” Pietro used your own words against you. Goddammit, sometimes he was too good at reading you.

“Oh, I remember. You want to bring that up, right now?” You rose an eyebrow, you didn’t want to bring it up either, but if it distracted from the line of questioning you would stomach it.

“Something tells me you have been hiding something bigger since I met you on day one.” He threw the book back on your desk and closed the distance between you.

“Bigger than you sticking your—” You started to snark.  

“Y/N! I am not having this conversation again. I’ve profusely apologized for it and admitted my mistake. We’re talking about you, not me, right now.”

“I don’t know what you want to know!”

Pietro threw his arms up and gestured wildly around the room. “Everything! What have you not told me? What have you not told the team?”

“I didn’t think it mattered!” You defended yourself.

“Didn’t think it mattered? It got us captured. You said you went to boarding school.”

“Technically it is a school and everyone boards here at one point or another.”

“Wow, so I get my ass chewed out by you for omitting, but this whole time y—” Pietro was interrupted by the beeping of your door.

You tensed as Moreau stepped into the room. “Trouble in paradise?” He smirked at you. “You didn’t tell your poor hubby about your accomplishments here at the academy? You’re not ashamed of your family, now are you?”

“You are not my family,” you hissed.

“Tsk-tsk, that’s not a nice thing to say. We grew up together.” Moreau tossed a bag of clothes at you. “Get changed, both of you. The Baroness would like to meet you, Mr. Maximoff.”

Moreau turned on his heel to leave but paused in the doorway. “You better hope she’s in a good mood.”

He just the door, leaving a small crack and you pulled Pietro to you. Your lips hovering near his.

“Y/N, what are—”

“Sh,” you whispered as quiet as you possibly could, “Moreau is probably listening in, possibly spying. Go along with whatever I say from now on. We are married, we met when you were still with Hydra undergoing experimentation, you proposed at the Rockefeller center when we were ice skating—”

“That’s where we met—”

“I know, I know, just…trust me. Okay? Can you do that? I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“You don’t?” A small smirk appeared on his.

“Not the right time. Do you trust me?”

“I always have until now. But yes,” he nodded and gently kissed you. “We got married on my parents’ anniversary, October twenty-third, in Central Park with just the team around. The leaves were changing, the air was crisp, and you looked beautiful in your dress, sexy even. Goosebumps covered your skin, not from your exposed back and cold, of course, but from the rush of getting to marry me—”

“Slightly smug, but I will let it pass,” you murmured, “Continue?”

“We held a dinner at that hipster Biergarten you love, drank hot apple cider mixed with whiskey, and instead of wedding cake, we had donuts. As we danced, I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to have married a woman as beautiful, smart, and cunning as you.”

You sucked in a shaky breath; his words had brought life to a film in your head. Pietro had thought about this before, and it hurt that it had never gotten to be his reality.  

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[k7l4d4]

Luz Noceda, Standing By An Owl House/JoJo Crossover Idea

This is my idea for a potential crossover between the Owl House and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, let me know what you think.

Basically, Luz is one of DIO's numerous kids, Camila really hates DIO and all that he represents, and tries to keep Luz from discovering her heritage. Luz does eventually find out, and takes it... about as well as you could expect, as while she is amazed that she is related to an insanely powerful vampire dude, he's also an evil, murderous bastard who wants to rewrite the world into his own image, which she does not like. Luz is a Ripple User, and really doesn’t want the art to die out.

Luz Noceda

Stand: [Rewrite the Stars]

Stand Type: Distance Irrelevant Natural Humanoid

Physical Description: [Rewrite the Stars]’ appearance is that of androgynous figure, with its upper torso having numerous artistic decals and pseudo-mystical and magical symbols, such as Norse Runes and Egyptian Hieroglyphs, decorating it. The head of [Rewrite the Stars] has three faces, levitating around a central head; the first face is human, but devoid of any features save it's eyes, the second is avian but only has a mouth, and the third is feline, but only has ears. The arms of [Rewrite the Stars] have a design similar to the joints and sockets of an action figure or posable doll, with three arms in total. The first arm clutches a paintbrush, the second grips a pen, and the third holds a small book with a lock. [Rewrite the Stars]' lower half is arguably the strangest aspect of it, as it is essentially a model of the solar system hovering off the ground, with the part representing the sun actually being a Disco-ball with an internal light.

Power Description: [Rewrite the Stars] possesses what could easily be considered the singularly most insane ability to ever grace a Stand User: Causality Change. To elaborate, [Rewrite the Stars] and by extension Luz have the ability to take an event that is either occurring or has occurred, and change the outcome. Once the outcome has changed, a new timeline manifests and the existing world is sublimated into it; all beings in the new world recall the prior one and everything that occurred to them in it, but also recall the new life they lived after the outcome changed. In most cases, because it is used in real time, no one can even tell that this ability activated, excluding those present for its use. However, it's not as OP as it seems on the surface; using Causality Change for even the most minor of events with the fewest possible outcomes is horrifyingly exhausting, to the point where using it more than three times a day with no less than three days of rest afterwards could kill Luz from exhaustion. Luz must also know all the relevant details of the Cause she is changing; she not only know what she is trying to change, but how it happened, who was involved, where it took place, when it took place, and why it was happening. If even one of those conditions is incapable of being met, Luz will be unable to change the Cause, and still suffer the energy drain of using her Stand's powers. Another facet of Causality Change is temporal distance; the longer from her current time the Cause being changed took place, the more painful it is for Luz to change it. One odd aspect of Causality Change is that no matter what Timeline results from the Cause being changed, lives will not be sundered; if someone is born in the old timeline, they will be born in the new one, no matter what. Perhaps the most frightening aspect of Luz's power, however, is the Causality Lock. Once a Cause has been changed, that event cannot be recreated; to give an example of the Jojo series, if Enrico Pucci attempted to use [Made In Heaven]'s ability to accelerate time and create a new universe, and Luz stopped him using [Rewrite the Stars]' power of Causality Change, Enrico can never attempt to do so again, ever, even if Luz dies, because that Cause has now been locked outside of probability, and no future where that event occurs can come about in any timeline in which [Rewrite the Stars] exists as well. Of course, changing something as massive as that would flat-out kill Luz in itself, so I guess it levels out, and even without time acceleration, [Made In Heaven] is terrifyingly strong, in itself, if mostly do to its speed.

Stats

Destructive Power: None. [Rewrite the Stars] can defend Luz, but cannot directly attack in any way.

Speed: A. [Rewrite the Stars] possesses reflexes capable of blocking every bullet fired from a machine gun without fail.

Range: C. [Rewrite the Stars] can move up to five meters from Luz in any direction.

Persistence: C. [Rewrite the Stars] can manifest for up to five minutes when activated without using its powers, but that drops to half a minute when Luz activates its powers.

Precision: A. [Rewrite the Stars] can accurately detect an respond to any attack aimed against Luz, no matter what it may be, and can even stop a knife less than a centimeter from her throat or heart.

Development Potential: A -> B -> C -> D -> E. At Development Potential A, [Rewrite the Stars], as defined by Luz’s current understanding, can only control the outcome of small events happening in real time, such as whether Luz will trip or not, whether a gun will fire or jam, or whether someone will sneeze. At Development Potential B, Luz can realize unlikely outcomes, such as a healthy tree falling over to stop an enemy from attacking. At Development Potential C, Luz can change events that are happening at distance, so long as she knows for a fact that they are happening, and that the conditions to affect them are realized. At Development Potential D, Luz can affect events in the past, so long as the conditions are met. At Development Potential E, any event Luz uses her powers on can no longer occur in any timeline in which [Rewrite the Stars] exists, essentially changing fate permanently.