#Importance of ongoing optimization

[mtbcleadgenbuzz]

The Long-Term Benefits Of Investing In Semantic SEO For Your Website

The Long-Term Benefits Of Investing In Semantic SEO For Your Website In a world where search engines dominate the way we access information, it has become crucial for businesses to optimize their online presence through Search Engine Optimization (SEO). While traditional SEO tactics focus on keywords and backlinks, Semantic SEO takes things to the next level by emphasizing relevance and…

[moonkissedvisions]

PAC ♡ 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐚 𝐦𝐢𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆

☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ:⠀ *⋆.*:･ﾟ .: ⋆*･ﾟ: .⋆ please read:

Hey! welcome to another reading. This reading includes the following questions, I drew one card for each of them: -How do you see yourself? -How do you think others see you? -How do you project yourself to others? -How can you improve your projection/image? -Who/How are you, really? Use your own intuition and discernment to read my interpretations. Remember that this is a general reading so not everything has to resonate. This reading was only made for guidance and entertainment, it´s not a replacement for professional advice of any kind. I use a Rider-Waite deck and you can ask me about the cards if they aren´t named in the reading. Check out my other readings at the end of this post and consider liking/reblogging/following if you liked this one.

ʚ♡ɞ Now, look for your pile and hope you enjoy it. ʚ♡ɞ

♡ Pile 1

How do you see yourself?

You see yourself as a joyful person who likes to have fun and juggle many things at once. You view yourself as adaptable, dynamic, and fast-paced. You strive to maintain balance in your life. Perhaps you see yourself as someone who is too agitated, trying to keep everything together but struggling with a bit of messiness. You are worried that you can't always solve every problem or you aren't versatile enough. You are practical and you tend to take too much at once, but you know you are good at that.

How do you think others see you?

You believe that others perceive you as a resilient and strong individual who has gone through many challenges in life. You think they see you as a warrior who can endure any obstacle that comes your way. You also believe that you excel at setting boundaries and people recognize your persistence, ability to push forward, durability, and unwavering stance on important matters.

What do you project?

You project that you are struggling emotionally. maybe you suffered from heartbreak recently and that's why others see you struggling. When you experience heartbreak, loss, or betrayal, it can be difficult to hide the impact it has on you. Often, others can sense that you are not feeling your best. This may be due to your facial expressions, gestures, and body language projecting your sorrow, depression, or grief. However, others may also sense that you possess the strength to endure emotional pain and anguish, and that you have the capacity to cope with difficult times and emotions. Despite the challenging circumstances, they can see that you are getting through it.

How can you improve your image?

To build a positive image, focus on developing self-confidence, optimism, and a sense of self-assurance. Recognize your own strengths, resilience, and determination, and celebrate your successes and progress with others. Cultivate a positive self-image by showcasing your talents, achievements, and skills, and don't be afraid to reward yourself for your hard work. By accepting love and attention from others, you can build strong and supportive relationships that will help you achieve your goals and thrive in life. Remember, with dedication and perseverance, you can create a positive image that reflects your true potential and inspires others to do the same.

Who/How are you?

Whether it's in the present, past or an ongoing experience, you may have encountered a sense of loss, betrayal, heartbreak or any other kind of ending that has left you feeling defeated, physically and mentally exhausted, unable to react, powerless, discouraged, and sad. It's a feeling that things have come to an end and a new beginning is approaching. You may feel resigned to this situation, and it may have taken you by surprise. Someone or something may have hurt you deeply, and you may feel like there is nothing you can do about it. But with time, a new beginning will approach, and you'll be able to start your life anew. ♡

♡ Pile 2

How do you see yourself?

You perceive yourself as someone who is often lost in thought, too absorbed in your mind to notice what is happening around you. Perhaps you are moody, bored, or indifferent. You don't seem to experience gratitude or joy for anything in particular. You may overanalyze things and miss out on opportunities as a result. You see yourself as someone who is introspective and contemplative, but you struggle to feel content or fulfilled. You don't have a passion or feel emotionally connected to anything. You may be stuck in a negative/lack mindset and find it difficult to appreciate what you already have.

How do you think others see you?

You believe that others perceive you as a patient, moderate, balanced, and a calm person. You think that people see you as someone who enjoys going on adventures and embracing all kinds of experiences. Additionally, you think that others view you as open-minded, flexible, and capable of accepting diverse opinions and ways of living. You don't consider yourself as a person who thinks in black and white, but rather as someone who avoids extreme points of view. Perhaps you believe that people see you as someone who is not vengeful, holds no grudges, and is diplomatic and stable.

What do you project?

You exude calmness and balance while projecting emotional intelligence and the ability to empathize with people's feelings. You possess the skills to help others with their emotional problems and have the ability to connect with your own emotions and creativity. People feel heard and understood when they talk to you, and you have a reassuring presence that can comfort and uplift them. You healthily express your emotions and are unafraid of being perceived as sensitive or emotional. You have a strong intuition that enables you to read others' emotions accurately and know when someone needs support. You are a loving, artistic, and magnetic individual who is capable of dreaming big and inspiring others with your creativity and passion.

How can you improve your image?

Be ready to unleash your inner child by embracing your childlike wonder and free-spirited personality. Ignite your adventurous side and discover new horizons with an open and curious mind. Don't let a lack of enthusiasm hold you back - break free from routine and indulge your curiosity. Follow what intrigues you. Get out of your head, and look at the bright side. The key to finding your passion is to approach life with a playful attitude and a desire to explore new ideas. Don't take yourself too seriously and don't worry about making sense of everything. You don't need to get attached to something to find it fun. Work on your fears. As you embrace your journey, you'll inspire others to follow your lead and tap into their own sense of wonder. Let humor be your guide and start smiling more as you uncover all the exciting experiences that await you.

Who/How are you?

You possess a reflective, methodical, and calm personality. You are someone who doesn't rush into things and takes their time to contemplate and evaluate the situation before action. You are careful with your work and like to commit yourself fully to it. You are a perfectionist. Your introspective and composed nature allows you to think through things deeply and come up with practical solutions. You value your work and like to reflect on the outcome, which helps you learn from your experiences and grow. You are intellectually practical and don't take any risks without careful planning. You are a patient, dedicated, and meticulous individual who values quality work and likes to appreaciate the fruits of their labor.

♡ Pile 3

How do you see yourself?

You see yourself as someone who possesses a remarkable collaborative personality that enables you to effortlessly blend the energies and abilities of all team members, resulting in outstanding project outcomes. Your ability to work in teams is a testament to your skill and capability. You are focused, dedicated, and driven to succeed, with a good eye for detail and a talent for employing practical skills to achieve your goals. Your meticulous planning and thoughtful consideration of all aspects of a project reflect your reliability and conscientious nature. You are aware of your strong work ethic, combined with your friendly and trustworthy demeanor. You are highly committed to your work, practical, and reliable which inspires confidence in your abilities.

How do you think others see you?

You may feel like others don't fully understand you or perceive you accurately. It's possible that you have an unclear sense of your own identity, or that your identity is constantly changing based on your emotions or what's currently going on in your life. This can make it difficult for others to get a clear picture of who you are, and you may feel misunderstood. You might even feel like you can't be your true self, or that there isn't a true version of you that you can show to people. It's possible that you feel like others see you as fake or delusional, or that they pick up on your insecurities and emotional struggles so their perception of you is clouded by emotional projections. You may worry that you confuse people or that they have false beliefs and wrong ideas about you.

What do you project?

You might unknowingly convey your inner feelings of doubt and unease to those around you. Perhaps you are currently low on energy, and those around you can sense that you are feeling defeated. You might be projecting an absence of assertiveness in your communication and actions, indicating that you are unsure of your ability to win your battles and succeed. It's also possible that you are projecting a lack of confidence in yourself and your boundaries, giving off the impression that you are easily giving up and that you don't stand up for yourself. Maybe others perceive you as someone who starts unnecessary conflicts and behaves recklessly. You may also be projecting a lack of experience and commitment, which could result in you frequently stepping back from challenging situations. Overall, you project insecurity and a lack of motivation.

How can you improve your image?

To improve your image, you must embrace the unknown and uncertainty with boldness, readiness, and vitality. Identify the factors that are holding you back and draining your energy. Instead of wasting your time and focusing on insecurities, learn to be assertive, spontaneous, and willing to take risks. Redirect your focus intelligently. Feel the fear, and do it anyway. Trust in your ability to overcome any challenge that comes your way. Don't hold back your wild side; be authentic and unapologetic. Take care of your health and engage in sports that will help you gain confidence and vigor. Expand yourself and seek ways to grow instead of limiting yourself. Remember, you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to.

Who/How are you?

You may be currently undergoing a process of healing, or are considering such a journey. You are beginning to view your pain, struggle, and grief in a new light, and as a result, you are experiencing a sense of release from emotional pain. You are starting to feel more peaceful and serene, and you are gaining a deeper sense of self-awareness. You are recovering from a past event that has had a profound impact on you, and you are gaining hope and faith in your healing journey. You are engaging in various forms of emotional release, such as journaling, meditation, or talking to someone. You help others to heal by sharing your own journey. You are attuned to your feelings and learning to experience them, rather than trying to control or over-analyze them. You are someone who is overcoming emotional obstacles and developing a sense of self-acceptance and inner peace. Your journey of healing is a testament to your strength and resilience, and serves as an inspiration to others who may be going through similar experiences.

♡ Pile 4

How do you see yourself?

You appear to be someone who possesses a strong sense of willpower. You are confident in your abilities to manifest your desires and you have all the resources at your disposal to achieve your goals. Your skills and creativity are impressive, and you possess the strategic prowess and focus to make things happen. You also possess a sense of empowerment and cunning, which makes you a natural leader with a flair for innovation.

Your persuasive and analytical abilities have made you a force to be reckoned with, and you are well aware of your power and influence. However, you may have noticed that this energy is not always directed in a positive direction. You may have used your persuasive abilities to manipulate, control, or deceive others, rather than using them to inspire and motivate. Perhaps you have struggled to channel your creativity in a way that benefits yourself and others, and as a result, you may have suppressed it altogether. You may also feel that you lack consistency in your endeavors, which can lead to wasted potential or a lack of progress. You may struggle to be honest and coherent with your thoughts and actions, which can lead to a sense of confusion or frustration. Despite these challenges, you deeply understand that you have the potential to overcome them and tap into your full potential.

How do you think others see you?

You believe that others perceive you as a deep and dynamic individual, characterized by a continual process of transformation and evolution in your life. You feel that they recognize your innate ability to undergo significant metamorphoses and serve as a catalyst for change. You sense that others regard you as someone who wields profound influence, capable of instigating transformative shifts within themselves and their surroundings. You believe that people perceive your resilience and profound depth, viewing you as a revolutionary figure who fosters renewal and facilitates healing processes. You think others see you as a radical person.

What do you project?

You appear to be experiencing a sense of detachment from your expertise and proficiency. You project that your level of engagement with your work has diminished compared to previous times. Your attention and organizational skills seem to be faltering, leaving others with a feeling of uncertainty regarding your reliability and dependability. It appears that practicality eludes you, and you are out of harmony with those around you, resulting in a lack of confidence in your abilities both professionally and in your daily pursuits. Your friends or colleagues may detect a noticeable disconnect, sensing that you are not resonating on the same wavelength as before and that your connection with them has weakened. Don't take this as a further discouraging message. Remember that this is also part of your journey so embrace it, and seek to realign at your own pace. You may be projecting this however it doesn't have to be the truth about you.

How can you improve your image?

Enhancing your image begins with embracing both your triumphs and setbacks, as they are integral parts of your journey toward personal and professional growth. By acknowledging and learning from your experiences, you pave the way for self-improvement and evolution. Make time for introspection, allowing yourself to release any burdens and cultivate gratitude for the lessons learned. Reclaim your power by reframing disappointments as opportunities for growth and resilience. Stay proactive in seeking out avenues for advancement and expansion. Re-center yourself by decluttering not only your physical surroundings but also your mental and spiritual spaces. Through this deliberate process of self-care and empowerment, you position yourself to thrive and radiate confidence in all aspects of your life. Remember that you can't grow new flowers until the old ones have decomposed into soil. Focus on growing new flowers, not in the decomposed old ones.

Who/How are you?

You have a vibrant persona thar radiates humor, making interactions with you a delight. You exude a carefree optimism that uplifts those around you. Your approach to life is characterized by a refreshing lack of attachment to material possessions, opting instead to savor experiences with an insatiable curiosity and boundless enthusiasm. You embrace each moment as an opportunity for joy and discovery. Recognizing the analogy of life to a perpetual celebration, you conscientiously cultivate an attitude of a gracious host, ensuring that every encounter is filled with warmth and vitality. Your capacity to maintain a lighthearted perspective, coupled with an unwavering focus on the bright side of life, reflects a remarkable depth of wisdom and resilience. You have an infectious smile and unforgettable laughter, and you embrace your childlike wonder.

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CHECK OUT MY OTHER READINGS

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[magiturge]

Honestly I was wondering - how Pasquale and Elliot get through tough times? How they support each other and/or cope on their own. How do you generally see their behavior during difficult periods of life and how exactly could these very “tough times” manifest themselves in their lives?

work.

they get invested / highly focused in their work when dealing with tough times while occasionally turning to trusted figures in their lives for support.

when on their own / individually from each other ( unknowing of each other ) :

pasquale focuses on his work, putting all his frustration, stress and anger into the violence and brutality of claiming targets. he is more violent than normal, more ravenous, more remorseless in his actions.

he does turn to some of fellow mafia for conversation and mumble venting / ranting, articulating himself more eloquently when venting to eunoia, turning to more use of flags and witches brew. pasquale becomes significantly less friendly or tolerant in tough times to inconveniences or useless disputes. he is still witty, but there is a sharper bite behind each word.

-

elliot will turn to putting a lot of focus into managing the pizza place, filling the roles and focusing on small details to optimize the most efficient working style given the layout of the days staff.

he will turn to his father mr builder when he feels a need to express frustration and exhaustion, seeking guidance on how to run the place. he also turns to daisy, the pet shop’s owner, for casual conversation to alleviate stress.

he gets more skittish, a little more strained, more tired, more FORCED.

when together :

they become invested in each other, the existence of someone deeply important to each other motivates them.

to pasquale, elliot is like chasing after the warmth of a gentle sun with love that is forgiving and kind. he’s like a bunny bathing in the sunlight and in tough times, he will hope and dream of him. he’s the warmth he falls vulnerable in.

to elliot, pasquale is hope of a life outside of this little world he’s lived inside. that there IS more to life, and he’s right there.

the thought of the other lifts their mind in tough times.

as for how they confide in each other about things beings rough ..

their definitions of tough times differ, so there can be awkward moments in confiding in the other. elliot’s tough times revolve around managing work, thinking about what he wants to do with his life, having a quarter life crisis while pasquale frets about the war ongoing in the dreamsphere and his family, if he’ll live for tomorrow.

both will usually fall into performing menial tasks around each other, just to be in each others presence, wordless affections and looking at the other.

when they have to be away, it’s calls over the phone. it’s talking to each other about what’s wrong, although pasquale will withhold certain details as he would rather not stress elliot out about.. the more extreme situation he’s in.

it’s reassurance that there will be a them tomorrow. it’s hope that the phone rings.

in tough times, they both dream

[godbirdart]

the fact that Neskantaga is still under a boil water advisory in 2024 is driving me insane.

for context: Neskantaga First Nation is a small community in Ontario 436 km [270 miles] northeast of Thunder Bay and 180 km [111 miles] northeast of Pickle Lake. They have been under a boil water advisory since February 1995 - nearly 30 goddamned years.

Progress on a new water treatment plant has been ongoing. Neskantaga First Nation's original water treatment plant was built in 1993, but the journey for a new one has undergone numerous issues involving the government and contractors, as well as shoddy construction and hazardous spills.

Construction is still listed as underway with no ETA on the advisory being lifted.

The Canadian Government perpetually drops the ball when it comes to safe water on reserves. In December 2023 the government introduced Bill C-61. It addresses clean drinking water across all First Nations communities, but Chief Chris Moonias of Neskantaga First Nation, the nation with the longest boil water advisory in the entirety of Canada, wasn't even consulted. The bill itself has also been met with much skepticism and criticism due to its vague wording, and rightfully so.

That said, despite the hells of the government there is some positive to be had. 144 long-term drinking water advisories have been lifted between November 2015 and January 2024.

I like to hope the 2021 report from the Auditor General regarding Indigenous Services Canada and its shortcomings will give them insight on how to better optimize their management going forward. So far 2022 and 2023 has continued the downward trend with fewer and fewer long-term water advisories, but it's important to know if these completed projects are successful in guaranteeing clean water to these communities for the long-term future. Is ISC actually following up with proper support.

On February 1, 2024 Indigenous Services Canada posted a statement that the Minister of Indigenous Services has met with Neskantaga First Nation Chief Christopher Moonias to discuss resolving the water advisory and create a 12-point action plan. I know it's asking a Lot within 11 months, but I really really hope the Neskantaga community won't see their long-term water advisory hit 30 years.

In the meantime, Neskantaga First Nation receives donations through Gathering of Rivers for Community Care. If you're able, please consider donating.

thanks

[covid-safer-hotties]

Reference saved in our archive

Published January 2021. The source of the infamous 59% asymptomatic spread statistic.

Key Points Question What proportion of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread is associated with transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from persons with no symptoms?

Findings In this decision analytical model assessing multiple scenarios for the infectious period and the proportion of transmission from individuals who never have COVID-19 symptoms, transmission from asymptomatic individuals was estimated to account for more than half of all transmission.

Meaning The findings of this study suggest that the identification and isolation of persons with symptomatic COVID-19 alone will not control the ongoing spread of SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract Importance Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is readily transmitted person to person. Optimal control of COVID-19 depends on directing resources and health messaging to mitigation efforts that are most likely to prevent transmission, but the relative importance of such measures has been disputed.

Objective To assess the proportion of SARS-CoV-2 transmissions in the community that likely occur from persons without symptoms.

Design, Setting, and Participants This decision analytical model assessed the relative amount of transmission from presymptomatic, never symptomatic, and symptomatic individuals across a range of scenarios in which the proportion of transmission from people who never develop symptoms (ie, remain asymptomatic) and the infectious period were varied according to published best estimates. For all estimates, data from a meta-analysis was used to set the incubation period at a median of 5 days. The infectious period duration was maintained at 10 days, and peak infectiousness was varied between 3 and 7 days (−2 and +2 days relative to the median incubation period). The overall proportion of SARS-CoV-2 was varied between 0% and 70% to assess a wide range of possible proportions.

Main Outcomes and Measures Level of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from presymptomatic, never symptomatic, and symptomatic individuals.

Results The baseline assumptions for the model were that peak infectiousness occurred at the median of symptom onset and that 30% of individuals with infection never develop symptoms and are 75% as infectious as those who do develop symptoms. Combined, these baseline assumptions imply that persons with infection who never develop symptoms may account for approximately 24% of all transmission. In this base case, 59% of all transmission came from asymptomatic transmission, comprising 35% from presymptomatic individuals and 24% from individuals who never develop symptoms. Under a broad range of values for each of these assumptions, at least 50% of new SARS-CoV-2 infections was estimated to have originated from exposure to individuals with infection but without symptoms.

Conclusions and Relevance In this decision analytical model of multiple scenarios of proportions of asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 and infectious periods, transmission from asymptomatic individuals was estimated to account for more than half of all transmissions. In addition to identification and isolation of persons with symptomatic COVID-19, effective control of spread will require reducing the risk of transmission from people with infection who do not have symptoms. These findings suggest that measures such as wearing masks, hand hygiene, social distancing, and strategic testing of people who are not ill will be foundational to slowing the spread of COVID-19 until safe and effective vaccines are available and widely used.

[skvaderarts]

Bottom Jayce Week Day 1: At the Edge of the Night

Summary: Word Count 8.7K! AO3 Link

(Cockwarming + Edging) After taking sanctuary in a Rakkor settlement in the foothills of Mount Targon, Jayce laments the frigid, unforgiving cold that never seems to leave him as of late. To his dismay, Viktor suddenly finds himself awake in the middle of the night, and his ever-helpful partner offers to help rectify an ongoing issue. TLDR: Jayce learns an important lesson about the virtues of NEVER interrupting someone's sleep.

My Bottom Jayce Week Lineup can be found HERE!

So if you want to check out all the other fics for the other days, go for it! I hope you enjoy, and thanks for reading!

—

Mount Targon was the very image of everything the myths and legends invoked.

To attempt to properly describe its scale and magnitude was a fool's errand. What was visible to the naked eye below the crest of the heavens above was only a minuscule, insignificant fragment of what lingered far above them; that much was clear without much thought given to it. And yet, it was nearly impossible to attempt to fully comprehend, so grand was its magnitude.

The Hexgates had been the tallest thing that either of them had ever fathomed they’d see in their finite lifespans. Now they realized they’d never truly comprehended the concept of height at all.

The base of the mountain was all that could be seen for miles upon miles in almost any given direction, all but for the gradually sloping grassy plains that melded into distant Shurima. Beyond that, nothing else could be perceived. They were truly at the ends of the known world.

The night that the Acceleration Rune deemed fit to spit them out atop Mount Targon had been frigid and merciless, battering them with all the primal, unwarranted ferocity of the tides sinking a ship as they did battle against the elements in utter futility. They’d stumbled down from a great height, snow blind, disheartened, and sorely undressed for the weather. But now, everything was quiet. Serene, even. Silent but for the breeze that couldn’t quite be called wind in good faith, but was still strong all the same.

In the weeks that melded into months that followed, they’d taken refuge in a Solari settlement and then the lodgings that they now occupied. They were at the base of the mountain, but that somehow meant very little in the grand scheme of things. They’d simply migrated to another settlement at the edge of the plains, rolling hills gradually flattening into gentle plateaus for as far as the eye could see. At times, the world still felt as though it lingered far beneath them from their place against the base of the mountain, nothing more than a distant memory. And yet, not a somber, mournful one. It was difficult to quantify what either of them truly felt about their place in the grand scheme of things now, but that was partially because they largely refused to, opting instead to take things one day at a time and give themselves over to the monumental effort that recuperating so often proved to be.

Convalescing indoors as often as they could had proven to be an optimal use of their mental and physical energy the vast majority of the time. Anything that spared them the vague disquietment that so often assailed them in random intervals if they dared attempt to comprehend everything that had happened was a worthwhile endeavor. But as time passed, the pain dulled slightly, and with it came a simple truth. The past was set in stone. The future, much less so. They could shape their own destinies now. Fate no longer had designs for them. They had a future.

Or they would if Viktor didn’t cause them to freeze to death first.

He’d been on the second-story private loggia that connected their lodgings to the outside world for the better part of thirty minutes now, arms resting over the railing as he looked off into the distance. Content to feel the cold air trail across his face as it rustled his hair and clothing. He wasn’t underdressed per se, but what scant heat the room contained seemed to vacate the longer Jayce beheld him through the small window that separated Viktor from his place in their shared bed. 

With a soft sigh, Jayce rose to stoke the embers of the small fire that smoldered a few meters from their place of slumber. He shuddered, a chill shooting up his body as his bare feet made contact with the stone floor below. The building was chiseled out of the mountain itself just as the majority of the structures in the village were, so the soft woven rug that covered the floor below in the hopes of providing some semblance of warmth did little more than prove to be a product of wishful thinking.

With his singular objective now complete, Jayce turned his attention elsewhere. He had a task in mind. He grasped the wooden double doors that led outside, going rigid as he was met with the unmistakable chill of the outside world. He barely crossed the threshold, unwilling to sacrifice any more of the precious heat that they’d cultivated to the whims of the mountain. Unlike Viktor, he was underdressed for the weather.

But that was only because Viktor had stolen his coat, of course.

“It was my understanding that you hated the cold,” Came a familiar voice in dry jest. Viktor didn’t turn to regard him, but he didn’t need to. It was just the two of them, after all. Who else could his mystery visitor be?

Jayce smiled softly, coming to a stop just behind him. The sight of Viktor in his coat, his lithe frame dwarfed by its large proportions so that it hung off of him like a loose bathrobe more than a fitted winter garment, had an effect on Jayce that he didn’t fully comprehend. His mouth went dry instantly. He longed to grasp him and carry him back to the bed. To swaddle him in his warmth and steal the cold from his bones. To hold him so close that he complained about the heat of him before eventually admitting defeat and surrendering, going slack in his arms. 

He wanted to…

Jayce didn’t even bother to acknowledge where his mind had wandered, the way his body had just betrayed him, or the effect seeing the scantest hint of Viktor’s exposed back, neck, and shoulder had on him. He was more surprised that his body had even managed to do that, given the current temperature. That had been… fast.

“The bed is cold without you in it, anyway,” Jayce responded nonchalantly as he stepped closer and wrapped his arms around his partner, grasping him around the lower chest and stomach as he pressed his chest against his back. It did nothing to make either of them warmer. In fact, it made Jayce colder to have his arms away from the center mass of his own body and against the cold fabric of Viktor’s clothing. But he insisted. He just wanted to touch him. To feel him beneath his grasp. His heartbeat against his skin and his breath in his ear. Against his body. It anchored him despite everything. Or more accurately, because of everything.

Viktor let out a contented hum and let his head fall against Jayce’s right shoulder, raising his left hand to absent-mindedly stroke Jayce’s forearm. The gesture had become second nature to him as of late, his inhibitions slowly dissolving in the face of their newfound mutual understanding. Slowly. Deliberately. Much the same as his caresses and other acts of affirmation. He settled against the crook of his armpit against his chest, his breathing slowing in increments as he half closed his eyes. Fulfilled.

They had grown close in the past handful of months. It had been slow going at first, but once the walls that they had both insulated themselves within slowly began to crumble away, the floodgates had been unleashed. 

Jayce had discovered rather quickly that while the two of them enjoyed and craved intimacy, their preferences were divergent. His desires for their trysts were more frequent; sporadic in nature, but never fleeting. And then there was Viktor. His desire was an infrequent thing, seemingly tempered by factors unknown to Jayce. Viktor was not reluctant to express his affections by any means. He did so without regard or hesitation. He was simply less inclined for them to branch out into more intimate avenues, instead preferring to bask in his company and enjoy the comfort of his embrace. The brushing of his lips against his own and the warmth of his smile. To be held and cherished much as he was now. Jayce’s presence alone was more than enough the majority of the time. It soothed him like a balm against irritated skin.

But should the rare occasion present itself well… that was another matter entirely.

“Just this morning you said my feet were colder than the ice on the slopes, Jayce,” Viktor said with a disbelieving scoff, playfully rolling his eyes at the statement. Two contradicting truths could coexist. They were living evidence of that immutable fact. But it was still fun to tease him from time to time. It kept things lively. Unpredictable.

“I did, didn’t I?” Jayce chuckled softly, resting his chin against the top of Viktor’s head. He adored him, but it was the truth. No matter what they did, his extremities remained ice cold, almost as though they had been chiseled from the very ice the caverns above them were built upon. There was no escape. He would simply spend the rest of his life being accidentally awoken in the night by the brush of his toes against his leg. Why fight it?

Viktor scoffed again, falling silent as he shifted his head back a bit, looking up. Jayce didn’t need to ask what Viktor was doing out on the balcony at this hour. The stars overhead were awe-inspiring, a nebula of glittering stardust that trickled across the cosmos like an abstract smattering of paint across a dark canvas. What a sight to behold. Why would one ever choose to miss this? And yet, the sight before him was more enticing all the same. The stars could stay where they were for now. Jayce had intentions.

He squeezed him just that little bit tighter, leaning in and allowing his garments to press against the small of his back. Pulling him between his parted legs as he slid his chin from the top of his head to the crux of his neck. Jayce settled there and did not dare speak a word. Regardless of what Viktor’s response to his silent inquiry was, he was not incapable of receiving a hint. Of feeling the way he protruded against his back.

They lingered in silence together for several minutes, taking in the majesty of the night until Viktor finally deemed fit to humor him with a response.

“... Jayce Tais, you are insatiable.” He was correct. And yet despite the way he sighed in mock defeat, it was not a judgment or a statement of dissatisfaction. It was one of his best qualities by Viktor’s personal estimations. He was almost impressed in a way. Where had Jayce’s mind wandered off to that allowed him to even manage to become aroused at such abominable temperatures? It was frankly inhuman. Fascinating…

“And you like that about me, don’t you?” He whispered into his neck, smiling against his skin. Another false inquiry. It wasn’t up for debate.

Despite his efforts to feign displeasure, Viktor simply couldn’t help the fond look that made its way onto his face, softening his handsome features. He closed his eyes, slumping into his embrace as Jayce pressed a lingering kiss against his wind-chilled skin. He’d been stronger once. “Indeed.”

Without another word shared between them, Viktor went slack and unfolded his arms. It was an invitation. One that Jayce would be a fool to ignore. Without so much as a word, Jayce slipped his arms into a more secure position around him and hoisted him up into his grasp, ignoring the way his back protested. The bed wasn’t far. He could manage that long.

For Viktor’s part, he was fully willing to humor him so long as he didn’t have to feel the cold bite of early spring against his bare flesh. Nothing was going to get him to disrobe. Not in this weather.

—

It had been a fun diversion, if not brief and laced with the omnipresent reality of bone-deep fatigue.

The moment their chilled bodies had settled under the warm blankets that covered their bed, the will to do anything at all had rapidly abandoned them. It was as if the mattress itself had leeched the very essence of arousal from their bodies as soon as they’d touched it. They made a decent attempt at doing something meaningful, but failed utterly within minutes. And they were fine with that. Or at least they had been as they’d drifted off into blissful slumber, wrapped in one another's embrace.

As if summoned from his restful slumber by some entity unseen, Jayce stirred. He blinked away the dregs of sleep from his eyes, trapped in a hazy state of semi-sleep that did him no favors. When his vision returned to him, the first thing his eyes fell upon was the smouldering remnants of the fire that made their room habitable. Little had changed. He’d only been asleep for a few short hours at most, and the specialized fuel contained within was designed to last for far longer than that.

The night stretched on. Morning would be upon them in a few hours' time, but not yet. They could still rest.

Exhaling deeply as he lay face down against the covers, Jayce noticed the presence at his back for the first time since he’d awoken. The pleasant sound of deep, meaningful breath being drawn and released as warm air stirred the hair at the base of the back of his neck. Just enough weight against him to anchor him in place, but not enough to restrict his movements. The gentle warmth was as familiar as it was welcome. A product of his lovers' embrace. They’d gone to sleep facing the loggia to the far side of their small quarters, but at some point during the night, Viktor had settled against the middle of his back, his thin arms wrapping around Jayce’s waist and his face buried in the space between his broad shoulders. Sound asleep.

Jayce resisted the urge to chuckle to himself. He wished he had eyes in the back of his head. He imagined that the sight was rather endearing.

He closed his eyes and settled back into the blankets, burrowing his arms into the covers. The room was pleasantly warm now. There was still a chill to the air, but that was something he’d grown used to as a fact of life here. There had to be ventilation for the smoke, and ventilation required an exit. There wasn’t a draft, but where there was a gap, there was air. With a soft sigh, he shifted slightly, careful not to move much. But despite his efforts, Viktor moved against his back. And when he did, Jayce’s head perked up.

The garments they wore were deceptively thin for how well they held heat, a product of ingenuity, necessity, and generations of fiber weaving techniques designed to make them softer, easier to move in, and reduce overall bulk. But an unintended byproduct of these efforts was the undeniable fact that they had a tendency to conform to the skin and muscles beneath them rather fittingly. Especially at times like this.

The logical part of Jayce’s mind told him that it was a product of friction and shared warmth. The considerate part of him insisted that if he was still asleep, then it wasn’t worth disturbing him over. But the instant Viktor shifted against him a second time in an attempt to chase his fleeting warmth and he felt that, the small lustful, inconsiderate part of his brain that he didn’t like to acknowledge the power of halted any further thought. 

They could sleep in. They had nothing but time.

In one smooth motion, Jayce turned over and gently pulled Viktor up against his chest, holding him as he pressed him against his chest. His lips brushed against his ear as he leaned in to whisper into his ear, hoping to rouse him gently. He slipped a hand under the wrap-like garment that clothed him, rubbing his hand soothingly along the length of his back. Tracing the length of his spine where his brace had once been secured with screws and locking mechanisms. The design had since been altered to accommodate his current needs, and the transformations that his body had endured had displaced them, but he remembered well where they had once been. Jayce beckoned him to awaken, and he wordlessly obliged.

Viktor’s eyes fluttered open, filled with fatigue and then intrigue. Intrigue that was quickly replaced with confusion. He looked at Jayce blankly, his eyes taking the better part of a minute to focus. But once they finally managed the task, he instantly registered the unspoken intent in Jayce’s gaze, his eyes lingering on his face as the taller of the two brushed a stray lock of hair out of his lover’s face.

“... Would you like some help with that?” He seemed almost too amused by the turn of events unfolding before him. He was under no illusions that this was the first time that this had occurred during the night, but it was the first time that he’d noticed. And if the look of tired confusion on Viktor’s face was anything to go by, he hadn’t registered it in its entirety just yet.

Viktor’s eyes traveled downward, a quizzical expression appearing on his face. The sleep-addled gears in his head gradually began to turn, permitting him to form something akin to intelligent thought. For a moment, he didn’t speak, looking up at Jayce with an almost accusatory look on his face as though he suspected that this might be partially his doing before he visibly disavowed the notion. His face flushed and he wordlessly pulled away, turning over to face the door in the opposite direction. It was a gentle, almost passive act, but one laced with a perceptible tinge of irascibility that Jayce almost dared snicker at, but for the halfhearted kick in the shin that it would no doubt earn him. It seemed Jayce wasn’t the only one who was becoming habituated to the frigid air.

Yawning as he rubbed his face with his palms, Jayce settled back down beside Viktor, pulling his back against his chest as he gently settled back into their embrace. Viktor returned the gesture, relaxing as the pair attempted to drift back into peaceful slumber.

A minute passed. Then a second. Then five. Then ten. 

And then, as if suddenly possessed, Viktor sat straight up in the bed and let out a full-body sigh, his shoulders slumping. He brought his face to rest against his open palm as he acknowledged defeat in utter futility.

“I am awake now.”

Jayce couldn’t help himself as he lay next to him with his eyes closed. A small chuckle slipped past his lips, heedless of the consequences it might invoke. “Well, I sure hope so since you’re still talking to me.”

Viktor gave him an incredulous look, a glimmer of something dark in his honey colored eyes. Something desperate. Silence settled over the two of them, unbearable in its weight until Jayce could endure it no longer and opened his eyes to meet his gaze. 

He could feel Viktor’s eyes on him before he even opened his own, burrowing into his very soul. There was a heat behind them that he recognized aspects of, but even with that taken into account, he knew that something was different this time. They flickered up and down the length of his body, assessing. Determining. Dismantling. The gears in his head were turning, and Jayce was suddenly as intrigued as he was wary.

Leaning over him with all the deliberateness of a great fanged predator stalking its prey, Viktor placed one arm on either side of him, looking down from above as he lowered his face until it was hovering just a few inches above Jayce’s, his eyes unavoidable. The intent behind them was clearer than ever before as he lowered his voice to little more than a whisper, his tone unambiguous and unwavering. There was a certainty to every aspect of him. It was arresting to behold, if not slightly intimidating. Jayce couldn’t deny the way his chest clenched at the display, the tightness below the blankets that they shared becoming more noticeable than ever.

“Yes… “ Viktor gingerly ran the back of his hand against the collar of Jayce’s wrap, visibly savoring the way he raised slightly to meet his touch. His eagerness was enticing, but he would not indulge. Not yet. His eyes fell lower, his face betraying how deep in thought he remained. But Jayce could only make vague guesses as to what he might have in store for him. “We should do something about that.”

Pulling his hand away slowly, Viktor watched as Jayce seemed to shudder at the loss of his touch. There was an air of mischief to him that Jayce recognized, but he’d never experienced it in this context before. And that truth only intensified his desire to peer into his beloved’s mind and catch a glimpse of the storm that was brewing there. His heart thrummed in his chest. Viktor looked far too casual for a man who had longed for sleep mere minutes ago, little more than a slight quirk of the corner of his lips to indicate his state of mind. And even that raised more questions than answers. He could glean very little about his state of mind, as things stood.

“Are you saying you’d like to reconsider my offer?” Jayce retorted lightheartedly, attempting to regain some of the footing that he’d clearly lost in this exchange. He reached up slowly to run his fingers up Viktor’s side, only to find his gesture repelled as Viktor gently brushed his hand away with his own, his eyes never leaving his own. Jayce swallowed thickly. And then Viktor leaned in close, his warm breath ghosting across his ear as he teased him with the prospect of a kiss that he would not grant.

“No.” It was all he said.

Jayce trembled. There was something about the way that those two simple letters left his mouth that made the tightness in his loins almost unbearable. Viktor was calm. So utterly calm and unknowable. His breath was even and measured in contrast to the rapidly hastening tempo of his own as he yearned for the sanctity of his touch. Viktor allowed his lips to brush against Jayce’s neck, but he did not part them. Did not press. He made no meaningful contact of any kind, his touch so scant that it was barely detectable. And then he withdrew again, hovering just above him. Just close enough to make it clear that his actions were intentional. He clearly understood the effect his stare had on Jayce as he unhurriedly dragged his eyes over every inch of his body, undressing him without so much as a single touch. There was no questioning that.

There was nothing to satiate him. Nothing to grant him sweet release from the situation he now found himself in. Nothing that could afford him the touch he so desperately longed for, save for the will of his partner. And he wasn’t getting the impression that Viktor was feeling particularly merciful at present. Instead, Viktor slowly dragged the covers back, centimeter by centimeter, inch by inch, as more of the outline of his form was revealed, exposing him to the temperature difference in the room. It was enough to draw another shudder from Jayce as he remained on his back, his companion’s eyes falling low before flickering back up to his face knowingly. Jayce gave him a tender, almost pleading look, chastising himself internally for his inability to conceal his growing desperation. But he simply could not help it. He’d longed for Viktor earlier that night. He desired him even more now. And he would devour him evermore if he were simply afforded the opportunity to indulge his passions.

He felt like a starved hound slavering over the prospect of a fresh kill. He needed him. Carnally.

Viktor slipped his fingertips into the front of Jayce’s garment, pulling the fabric away from his taunt skin just enough to ensure that his fingers did not brush against him as he traced the hem of the fabric down to where it was tied at the waist. And then he stopped, holding his hand there but doing nothing. Savoring the undeniable warmth at the base of his stomach that would not relent. It was a sentiment he understood well. He was in no better condition himself. But that reality would do nothing to save Jayce from what he had in store for him. Oh yes. He had designs.

Slipping his hand lower into the garment, Viktor stopped just shy of actually touching Jayce in the way he knew that he most wanted. It was enough to drive him utterly feral.

He watched as his lover’s breath deepened, becoming more erratic than ever at the prospect of any kind of contact. Jayce jerked upward, raising the source of his desire to seek his hand, but he found nothing. Instead, Viktor withdrew his hand and used it to press down on the side of his hip, anchoring him in place. Restraining him with little to no effort. Jayce huffed. And then Viktor met his eyes again, that same mischievous darkness that they’d held since they’d started more prominent in his golden eyes than ever. Jayce was beginning to understand now. There would be no salvation.

Viktor reached for the tie at Jayce’s waistband, slipping his fingers delicately into the loop of fabric and pulling it until it unraveled. The fabric loosened, resettling slightly as he then grasped the edges of it, tracing them back up to Jayce’s chest as he peeled back the article of clothing one side at a time, fully exposing his partner to the open air. Jayce’s breath hitched as Viktor leaned back, propping himself up on his right elbow next to his head as he ran his fingertips through the edges of Jayce’s hair. The gesture was scant, more surface-level than Jayce would have liked. He preferred to feel Viktor’s fingers against his scalp, gripping gently as he often did. But he knew better than to hope for such a thing now.

To no surprise, he withdrew his hand again, simply taking a moment to savor the sight of him. Viktor didn’t speak. He simply regarded him peacefully, the mechanisms in his head shifting at full force as he undid the waistband of his own clothing, pulling it apart just enough to entice Jayce with a glimpse of something truly tantalizing. A sample of greater treasures to come. It earned him a cautious look from his partner as he shifted onto his side, the want in his eyes unmistakable as he visibly longed to touch him. His hand trembled against the fabric of the sheets. Jayce so desperately wanted to slip his hands into the inside of the silken fabric that clung to Viktor’s body. To touch him. To take the heat of him into the welcoming warmth of his mouth. His eyes spoke volumes as they lingered in unbroken silence. “Just let me have you.” He seemed to beg wordlessly, his jaw clenching as he tried to stifle the base whimper that tried to escape his lips. Tried to suppress the ache between his thighs.

Shockingly, Viktor obliged.

He parted the garment just a bit more, shifting into a more comfortable position as Jayce wasted no mental energy considering anything. He shuffled lower, curling his fingers around Viktor’s hip as he slipped them into the underside of the fabric, leaning in close to savor the scent of his flushed, blood-darkened skin. He pressed his lips lovingly against his navel, kissing the soft skin as he trailed lower, sucking at the soft flesh at the base of his greatest source of desire. He kissed the tip of him before slipping his tongue from between his lips, tracing the vein that ran up the length of him a single time before dipping down in earnest and engulfing him in warmth.

And yet, as he continued, there was no hand at the back of his head as there normally was. No gentle caresses of his face and neck to reward him for a job well done. No barely controlled hitching of his hips as he tried in futility to resist the gentle lull of Jayce’s now thoroughly experienced mouth. There was next to no recognition of his efforts at all. Little more than his breathing changed, and even that was subtle. But as Jayce shifted his gaze upward to behold him, eager to attempt to comprehend his silence, he nearly choked on the expression on Viktor’s face.

If a gaze alone were capable of cutting diamonds, Viktor’s would have. His eyes were half lidded, pupils fully dilated in the dim light of the fireplace. The corner of his mouth opened just enough to provide a glimpse of his tongue wetting his lips before settling against the back of his teeth. Viktor slowly withdrew from him and placed his hand on his shoulder, tracing it down the length of his side until it reached his lower back, ushering Jayce towards him with a gentle if not firm tug. Beckoning him to turn over fully onto his stomach as he locked him in place with torturous eye contact.

Jayce felt his pulse deepen, his own heartbeat deepening until it was all he could hear. His skin prickled with goosebumps. Viktor had only humored him like this once before in the few months that they’d shared a bed together. It was a matter of preference, according to him. He liked the heat of Jayce against the length of the front of his body, the embrace of his arms at his back as he pressed deeper, caging him in lustful reverence. But given the shift in behavior Jayce had thus far witnessed tonight, the prospect of what he had in store for him was so tantalizing that it nearly made him twitch, his ears ringing just enough to make his head tingle.

He followed Viktor’s lead, turning over onto his stomach. The smaller of the two leaned over him, the warmth of his body ghosting over Jayce’s back as he rustled with the bedside drawer, securing something unseen before withdrawing. Jayce was willing to make a few guesses as to what, but before his mind could wander, he felt Viktor’s fingers at his hip, tugging at him in a manner that made it clear that he wanted him to lift up just a bit. His grasp was gentle yet tantalizing, applying just the right amount of pressure to his touch-starved flesh to cause him to take a deeper intake of breath. Jayce throbbed at the prospect of Viktor’s touch, obliging instantly. He wanted to feel his long digits wrap around him. To indulge in the pleasure it would provide. But instead, his partner slipped one of the pillows from the head of their bed under his thighs, elevating him slightly. A sound somewhere between a gasp and a whimper slipped past his lips despite his best efforts to contain it as he lost the blissful warmth and pressure that the mattress provided, his arousal now suspended just out of reach as he settled into place on the pillow. He went untouched again. It was a terrible shame.

A small hand pressed against the middle of his back, stilling him as Viktor positioned himself behind him, allowing his weaker leg to rest on a pillow of his own, allowing it to act as a buffer of sorts to avoid discomfort from pressure. Jayce felt his breath trail up the length of his spine at an almost agonizingly slow pace, hot and tantalizingly warm as he leaned in and pressed a lingering kiss against the back of Jayce’s neck. It was a scant thing, but he sighed in blessed relief when he received it anyway. Any contact with Viktor was worth treasuring. He needed him. Badly. So badly, in fact, that it was starting to become unbearable, the throb of unsatiated eros rendering him sensitive and ever more desperate to receive. To give.

Perhaps sensing his growing discontent, Viktor pressed a soft kiss against each of his shoulder blades in turn, each more tender than the last. It seemed that there was a limit to his cruelty after all. Jayce hazarded a soft smile, his breath shuddering as he clung to the pillow beneath his chest, Viktor’s hands dipping low and urging him to part his legs just a bit more. Gripping the middle of his back and kneading the muscles there soothingly, he pressed a single slicked finger against him. He didn’t push in. Not immediately. But the sharp intake of breath Jayce involuntarily took spoke volumes to his growing sensitivity. He barely withstood the urge to rise up, chasing what he so desperately needed. He was starting to realize that doing so would earn him the exact opposite result. That was the game they were playing tonight.

They lingered for a moment, unmoving as Viktor continued to work the muscles in his back underneath his fingers. But just as Jayce began to turn his head to look back at him questioningly, Viktor pressed in slowly, pulling a gasp from him as Jayce shoved his face into the pillow instead, the hair on his face brushing against the plush cushioning. Despite his previous torments, this was one area where Viktor was unwilling to undersell him, adding an additional digit a minute later. He was met with no resistance as he delved deeper, searching. His mouth watered at the stifled sounds that Jayce made, though his love was unable to see it. And with a slow curl of his fingers, he located precisely what he was looking for. He grinned knowingly.

With a deep groan, the entirety of Jayce’s body lurched as lightning shot through him, the sensation nearly too much to bear. Viktor quirked his fingers against the spot again. And then a third time, each somehow more unhurried than the last. And then with an abruptness that made Jayce want to choke, he withdrew, pressing another kiss against the spot on his back where his hand had just been.

It was as if he’d suddenly slipped and fallen headlong into hell.

The sensitivity was nightmarish, the ache where his fingers had been moments ago akin to the dull throb of a toothache that knew no relief. Not quite painful, but utterly unpleasant. Jayce whimpered softly, the flushed skin between his thighs trembling from a lack of contact that he could abide no longer. Reaching down with his right hand, he attempted to remedy the situation himself, only to be met with the sensation of Viktor’s fingers trailing up his arm before it was gingerly brushed away, Jayce huffing in defeat as he burrowed his face deeper into the pillows. He felt Viktor’s breath at the back of his neck again, but this time there was no kiss.

“Jayce Talis… What exactly do you think you’re doing?” Came the soft syllables that spelled his undoing. There was something so knowing in his tone. It was taunting but delicate, slow-acting venom laced with sugar and humor. It would’ve been punishing if not for the way it enriched every aspect of Jayce’s arousal, making his loins do cartwheels as he lingered in a purgatory of his own making. Or perhaps that was the same thing at this juncture. He wasn’t sure which of them was more invested in this little game of theirs, but he certainly hoped Viktor had less stamina than he did.

It was unlikely.

“... Do you want me to beg?” Jayce said, an air of desperation to his voice. He sounded almost defeated; whittled down and ready to do his bidding. It earned him a scoff and a playful pat on his back. And then he craned over his shoulder, his lips grazing Jayce’s earlobe as his voice fell a few octaves. His words were hushed and deliberate, even more so than they’d been a moment ago. And Jayce hung on every vowel.

“That would be unconscionable of me, wouldn’t you say?” Jayce suddenly felt something warm against the length of his opening, rubbing lengthwise up and down the skin that made up the ring of fire that now encompassed his overly tender entrance, to the engorged throbbing mess that was his painfully over engorged arousal. Each slow drag lubricated him, but there was no indication that Viktor planned to indulge him any further. He raised up slightly, brushing the tip of his wanton flesh against the throbbing, delicate flesh of Jayce’s opening, pressing just enough to leave the faintest traces of pressure before pulling away and continuing to run up the length of his backside. Viktor took Jayce’s earlobe into his mouth, sucking it tenderly before releasing it as his shoulder length hair tickled his lover’s back. And then he chuckled to himself, the vibration reverberating through Jayce’s entire upper body as his legs trembled in futility. “What do you take me for? I am many things, Jayce, but have you ever known me to be cruel?”

Oh yes. He certainly had. Right now, in fact.

“... I would never accuse you of something so untrue.” Jayce wondered if his words sounded as sarcastic out loud as they did in his head. It earned him an amused scoff. Viktor then slid down just a bit further, clasping Jayce’s quaking things together as he slipped his length between them, applying pressure to it. He exhaled deeply, clearly enjoying the pleasant warmth that surrounded his throbbing flesh and the disbelieving sound of utter betrayal that came from somewhere deep within Jayce as he tried and failed to gain purchase against him. The sensation of his length sliding back and forth between his thighs, so tantalizingly close to where he wanted him to be but not quite there, was maddening. Viktor smiled softly, patting his behind lovingly.

“Yes, you would.” He suppressed a chuckle, but his voice still carried the same air of dry humor that Jayce was so very fond of. There it was. That signature Viktor wit. The biting yet never unkind sarcasm reserved specifically for him that brought him such joy. “You're thinking it right now.”

Why lie when Viktor was right and knew himself to be? There was no deceiving him, especially when Jayce was already struggling just to form a coherent string of thought. “I thought you said you wouldn’t read my mind.”

Viktor released his legs and pulled away, leaving him with no sensation at all. Jayce huffed. Somehow, this was worse.

“I do not require the use of the Arcane to know what is going on inside your mind, Jayce. Your eyes betray you. Your wandering hands.” He lined himself up with Jayce’s entrance with calculated lethargy, slipping his free hand under the front of Jayce’s body and resting it against the space between his navel and his engorged flesh. Pressing lightly to solicit a simpering gasp from him. Savoring the way the muscles in Jayce’s stomach tensed in anguished anticipation. “Betray the extent of your longing. Your desire.”

When he finally indulged Jayce, the sensation was like nothing he’d ever felt. Like flames being doused with cold water, and yet still continuing to rise and billow in vehemence all the same. Viktor sank in with consummate ease and criminal slowness, millimeter by millimeter as Jayce grasped the last vestiges of his sanity and the bed sheets in turn, his eyes seeing nothing as all traces of intelligent thought evicted themselves from his once brilliant mind. He was a wreck, a shell of his former self, devolved to nothing more than a floundering mess, the sweet heat of his beloved within him all he would ever need for the short time that life remained in him.

After what felt like a lifetime, Viktor was fully seated within him. He could conceal the look of abject pleasure on his face, but not the deep purr of rapture that vibrated through every muscle in his body. Jayce’s eager body encompassed every atom of him perfectly, almost as though his muscles had been molded specifically to his preferences, his passage sculpted by design for this very purpose. It was utter ecstasy. Euphoric. Everything he needed it to be, even if he hadn’t realized it until that very instant.

And then Viktor stopped moving.

For the first minute, Jayce assumed that Viktor was allowing him a grace period to adjust to his frankly unanticipated size before proceeding. Jayce remembered being genuinely taken aback by that particular revelation the first time he’d seen him engorged, staring in a way that had earned him a deep red blush from his, at the time, anxious new partner as he loomed over him in their new bedroom, admiring every inch of his body. But then the second and third minutes came and went, and Jayce realized in abject horror that Viktor had no intention of doing anything. He suddenly thought he might snap, his fragile sanity finally reaching the point of no return as he white knuckled the sheets as if his life depended on it.

He was starting to get the impression that Viktor was enjoying this just a little bit too much.

Jayce sighed, turning his head to face his partner. The smug, knowing look on his face was the stuff of nightmares. Jayce wasn’t sure he’d ever seen Viktor grin before, but he wasn’t sure if he found it adorable or genuinely disquieting to witness. His eyes were half lidded, and his face, neck, and ears were flushed a flattering shade of dark pink. He took deep but deceptively erratic breaths, tilting his head to the side as if to wordlessly inquire if he wanted something. He looked like he was barely resisting the urge to drool. The sight of Jayce like this was so very intoxicating.

“... Viktor…” He spoke his name as though it were a curse and a blessing all at once. Something to be revered and feared in the same breath. It earned him deepened eye contact and a hand on his chest as Viktor used his now free left hand to brace himself against Jayce’s body, running his fingers over his sensitive skin in idle praise.

“Yes, Jayce?” He spoke as if he were unaware of any potential issues, nonchalant and utterly, playfully apathetic towards the concept of what his actions had caused and the way Jayce was rapidly unraveling before him. 

Sighing deeply, Jayce’s gaze softened, something in his eyes so tender and pleading that it made Viktor’s mask slip for a brief moment as he seemed to contemplate whether Jayce was truly suffering as a direct result of his actions. He didn’t want that. “I should’ve just let you sleep. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. This is fun. The most fun I’ve had in ages, in fact.” He pulled backwards, guiding Jayce to kneel in front of him as he discreetly assessed his comfort level. This wasn’t a position that was likely to aggravate Jayce’s leg or back, but it would always be a consideration for Viktor regardless. Toy with him as he might, he took his suffering very seriously. “Ask nicely.”

“I thought you said you didn’t want me to beg,” Jayce said almost definitely, scoffing at the sheer audacity of his imposition. He was incredulous.

Another chuckle, this one accompanied by the gentle massaging of Jayce’s chest as Viktor leaned in and pressed his body against his, kissing his exposed neck with all the tenderness of a kitten. His beloved trembled at his touch, his thoroughly exposed length begging for attention. Viktor lowered his hand, willing to oblige if he’d simply return the favor first. “There is a difference between begging and saying please, Jayce. Use your words.”

Jayce allowed his shoulders to slump to an almost sarcastic degree as he gnawed on the inside of his bottom lip. Viktor affectionately peppered comforting kisses along his neck and shoulders, pressing lightly at the source of his suffering with his hand. That was all he had to do? Truly? It wasn’t another playful deception? He only had one means of answering that question. He would take him at his word. “... Please?”

He felt Viktor smile against his skin as he nuzzled him, pausing his ministrations entirely.

“Good boy.”

In one smooth, calculated motion, he withdrew fully and then plunged back into the depths of this being, hitting every nerve ending along the path. Jayce’s breath hitched as he groaned headily, hoping with everything in him that the stone walls of the establishment were thick. For a moment, he saw stars. Stars just as real and vivid as the glittering nebula they’d witnessed together that very night. Viktor slowly withdrew again, this time stopping just shy of exiting entirely, spreading the sensitive muscles at his entrance with the thickest portion of himself as he watched the capacity to think or breathe leave Jayce permanently.

Viktor had his own preferences in regards to tempo, but he knew Jayce’s well enough to know that this was precisely what he wanted. What he needed. And he was nothing if not accommodating.

He snuggled up against him, continuing at a steady yet unrelenting rhythm as he shushed him gently. It wouldn’t be long. He’d known that much for a while now, such was the nature of his taunting. One could not be expected in good faith to withstand such a thing and then last much longer afterward. Leaning over as far as he could, he took in the sight of Jayce’s disheveled face from over his shoulder, caressing him gently as he pressed as far into him as he possibly could. He held himself there as he savored the distinct sensation of Jayce practically convulsing around him, his nearly overstimulated muscles spasming sporadically as he brushed against that heavenly place deep within him. Viktor wished he could bottle and distill the sensation. But perhaps not. Why diminish its significance?

Jayce blinked away unspent tears, but he felt nothing remotely resembling pain. There was only satisfaction, deep and carnal in a way that was uniquely satiating. And despite the torment he had inflicted upon him, Jayce hoped that it was a sentiment Viktor shared. There were no hard feelings between them. There never would be. Jayce knew that he could trust Viktor to respect him and not take things too far. To call off his little game should he truly wish it. Viktor was incapable of hurting him, even if he wanted to. And he didn’t. He was diligent. Steadfast. And intensely loving.

He just enjoyed tormenting him a little bit from time to time. And luckily for them both, Jayce was into that.

“Tell me where,” Viktor gasped as he spoke, resting his chin on Jayce’s right shoulder as he trembled from a flood of sensation, lust coating every word that came out of his mouth as his sanity threatened to abandon him for good. He was the very image of a man driven mad with passion; the sound of his voice alone was a force of torment too strong to withstand. “Please.”

For the first time that night, the blood in Jayce’s body went somewhere other than his loins.

He felt Viktor shudder behind him, both of his arms rising from underneath Jayce’s to encompass the width of his chest as his breathing became ragged and unfulfilling. He grasped his shoulders from overtop his chest with his open palms, his fingers digging into the taunt flesh but not scratching or bruising. Merely holding on for dear life. Jayce wasn’t in a much better state himself, but it was still enthralling to be a part of. To hear the sound of Viktor so close to release. It never failed to make his blood ignite. Jayce felt Viktor’s face fall against the center of his shoulder blades as he struggled to hold himself back, his hair blinding him as it stuck to his face from a combination of their sweat. His eyes were closed as he lavished Jayce with a combination of barely comprehensible complimentary gibberish and feted kisses along the length of the scar on his back, his heart pounding against his spine. For the first time that night, he was asking Jayce to lead him, and that realization alone was enough to topple Jayce over the edge. He barely managed to answer before giving in, no longer able to withstand the intensity of their devotion. How could he?

“You know where.” Was all Jayce managed to wheeze out before he slumped forward, grasping the head of the bedframe with his outstretched hands. He almost choked on the air leaving his lungs, his mouth opening, but his body producing no sound aside from a deep, guttural groan that barely qualified as human speech. Whatever sound Viktor managed to make was muffled by his fluttering gasps and Jayce’s back as the pitch of his voice keened ever higher in chorus until he exhaled shakily and slumped over, his soul barely clinging to what remained of his body. His arms fell slack as Jayce bore the full, if not meager, weight of his body. 

For all of about ten seconds.

Unable to withstand the quivering of his arms and shoulders any longer, Jayce released the headboard and tumbled forward, heaving as he drew breath. It was only after several minutes that he looked back over his shoulder at the simpering mess that had once been his partner. Jayce’s hands throbbed from how hard he’d clenched his fingers, and his eyes were blurry, but he could still see Viktor as he rose up on weak arms to behold him, his face streaked with freshly spent tears but no less full of love. It appeared that Jayce hadn’t been the only one who had been overstimulated…

That had truly been… something.

With a huff, Viktor collapsed against his back in much the same position as he had been in when Jayce had first awoken. The only sound was the pleasant crackle of the waning fire and the sound of their breathing as they both gradually began to catch their breath. Viktor didn’t move to withdraw himself, content to enjoy the warmth Jayce’s body provided for just a little bit longer. To bask in his heat as he rubbed soothing circles into his pectoral muscles from behind. They were both beyond content.

But they would have to change the sheets come morning.

“... Remind me to have a more… sensible reaction the next time you wake me up in the middle of the night?” Viktor requested softly as Jayce shifted below him, unteathering them. Viktor whispered at the loss of contact but did not protest, allowing Jayce to pull him to rest against his chest, his arms wrapping around him and anchoring him in place. The smaller of the two almost seemed bewildered by the gravity of it all, blinking slowly as his brain attempted to regain functionality, his muscles now fully relaxed and his body utterly limp. Post copulation clarity was a force of nature.

Jayce chuckled beneath him, his eyes slowly closing as he basked in the pleasant warmth of his company. Now that he knew that this side of his benevolent lover existed, he couldn’t think of anything he’d like to avoid less. “Absolutely not.”

—

I wrote an outline for this fic and limited myself to 1 page because I knew I had 6 other oneshots to write. It still ended up being 20 pages and 8790 words. I'm cooked. I'm starting today's fic RIGHT NOW, so here's hoping I can get it up at a reasonable time today since it's 3 pm here. Gosh, I hope this was decent since I've never written smut before outside of a BJ in one fic like a month ago lol! Next up: Old Man Mage Viktor! And oh boy, do I have ideas…

[raconteur-wanpi]

One Piece 1142

Review time!

Starting with the cover story again, Yamato seems to OHKO Who's Who. Lol. Lmao, even. Well, he might get back up later, but I hope he stays down. It's funnier if, after all that set-up, One Hit is all it took.

Anyway, after a "big snake" is seen attacking the school, we get a better look at the teachers! I really like all of their designs, I'll always welcome another ensemble group of wacky characters. Seems the school is named after its principal. Funnily enough his name can be translated as "Fangs" or "Tusks"!

Also I think I saw a translation where Ange is specifically labeled as a teacher of the "official language", a.k.a "Koyogo", the language Oda said the World Government forced everyone in the world to learn as a Lingua Franca. Interesting!

The kids claim the giant snake is "Jörmungandr", so interestingly we have a lot of Norse Mythology references again. Kiba and Saul take good care of it easily, it's fun to see some powerhouses do their silly big shounen action finishing moves.

For some reason my instincts tell me a giant serpent getting hit by a big hammer is some sort of foreshadowing. No idea why, just a gut feeling. Hammers seem to be important this arc.

While these mysterious monsters attack, the children also seem to be falling asleep and start sleepwalking Pied Piper style. They seem to be following Gunko's arrow!

It is however still a mystery whether the power that put them to sleep, and the power the summoned the monsters (we'll talk about that later, don't you worry) are the same or not.

It is soon revealed that these monsters are a manifestation of the children's greatest fears and/or nightmares! That's an incredible power. This is one of those powers that can be utilized very well for character studies, and as I've already said, I can't wait to see the Strawhats nightmares/fears manifested hehehehe. Also I love how Nika is one of these Nightmares, that's very fun. Also yes, you can see that kid's mom in the bottom left.

Not to get my hopes up again, but I am hoping that having a "fear" based power for one of our antagonists, is gonna be a good chance for Usopp Thematic Relevance. He's the guy that grapples with fear every day. Is he going to be the one who will struggle with this power the most? Or the exact opposite, precisely because he's the only Strawhat used to dealing with fear on a daily basis? Who knows, trying not to jinx it with my optimism..... C'mon Oda... Usopp arc... please.....

Anyway, I guess the Nightmare Theming is why I wonder if the kids falling asleep and the Monsters showing up is the result of the same power of not: it could be a situation where they're separate: one power puts the kids to sleep/hypnotizes them, and another power manifests their fears.

But if this is the doing of one Gods Knight only, then this could be a power of Nightmares; making it one and the same. The children are put to sleep, and their nightmares manifest in reality while they do that, like fuel.

Thing is, after we see that, Killingham is given a "good job" and he himself immediately falls asleep, which seems to be his ongoing gag so far. Which begs the question, if this is all his doing (outside of the arrow), then.... is that his devil fruit? Does he really have the Kirin fruit? Can Kirin on One Piece do that? Or does he have like, the Nightmare Fruit or something, and the Kirin thing is like.... something else? Does Imu's powers come into this? No clue whatsoever. We're gonna have to wait.

Also do note Summers sitting in his armchair. Very funny. It came with him so he might as well use it.

And interestingly enough, when asked what she fears the most, Gunko answers: Nika.

Cannot wait to see how this whole deal unfolds.

Now moving to Loki! God he is huge, Hajrudin barely reaches his knees.

I am very very interested in his "if you care about keeping Elbaph safe" line. He is most likely making a threat; if you want to keep it same from me.

But could it be a double entendre. Perhaps he means that he has information that could save Elbaph from the World Government, a sort of "we don't have time, free me so we can stop them".

Maybe it's the former, maybe it's the latter, maybe it's both. It's probably the former, though.

Aaaand here it is. He strikes his Ragnir hammer on the bark of the tree, lightning comes down, and it lights on fire. This panel goes hard. The lighting and the line of action... mwah.

I've already seen debate on what this means for Loki's powers. I've seen people say this confirms the hammer has the devil fruit and not him. Others claim it's a testament to his power, and that it is HIS devil fruit, and that's he's strong enough to use a weakened version of it, even with one Sea Stone shackle. And I've seen people say there's no devil fruit displayed here yet, simply the power and friction of the hammer is able to light the fire like a flint.

Honestly, I have no clue which one is the correct answer! But I am oh so excited to find out.

Very interesting chapter, the arc is finally kicking in and chaos is unfolding!

[camisoledadparis]

The Friends' Festival, held in April 1944, was a significant cultural event during a period marked by the ongoing challenges of World War II. Organized as a means to strengthen community bonds and provide a sense of normalcy amidst the war, the festival celebrated unity, friendship, and resilience. Events like this were particularly important during the 1940s, as they brought together people from diverse backgrounds to collectively embrace hope and camaraderie in the face of adversity. The spirit of such festivals helped to maintain morale and foster a sense of togetherness during a time of global uncertainty.

In April 1944, the Friends' Festival also highlighted the importance of cultural and social gatherings during wartime. These events, though small in scale compared to military efforts, played an essential role in maintaining the civilian war effort by reinforcing community solidarity and fostering optimism. As the world grappled with the effects of conflict, festivals like the Friends’ Festival reminded people of their shared humanity and the collective effort needed to endure difficult times. Such gatherings are emblematic of the era’s resilience and community strength.

[soon-palestine]

https://t.co/J3fEqiIOIk

Since June 2019, Sudan has been caught in a whirlwind of revolution, descending into a profound economic and political crisis. The initial optimism that followed President Omar H. al-Bashir's ousting has led to chaos, influenced by powerful international actors with their respective political agendas. The geopolitical quagmire is further complicated by the involvement of neighbouring countries.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's (PhD) recent visit to Port Sudan, where he met with Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (Gen.), the head of the Sudanese army and the Saudi- and Egyptian-backed Sovereign Council of Sudan, evidenced Ethiopia’s vested interests. The visit should be particularly important given Abiy’s prior engagement with Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader, whom he hosted in Addis Abeba in December 2023 to advocate for peace in Sudan.

Ethiopia's economic ties with Sudan are substantial. The slowdown in the 211.5 million dollar investment circuit between Khartoum and Addis Abeba has adversely affected both countries. Small businesses along the Sudan-Ethiopia border have borne the brunt of the ongoing conflict. Prime Minister Abiy’s visit can be seen as an effort to stabilise these economic ties and promote peace for mutual benefit. However, if influenced by Western countries or Saudi Arabia, Abiy’s administration may face political backlash from its ally, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The role of international players was evident early on. The UAE was among several countries, including the United States (US), Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, that expressed solidarity with the Sudanese people. Saudi Arabia and the UAE notably provided three billion dollars in economic aid to Al-Burhan’s leadership, signalling their approval of the political shift in Khartoum. However, the situation in Sudan soon deteriorated into an ongoing civil war, leading to accusations of ethnic cleansing and further international scrutiny.

Sudan's civil war, however, extends beyond regional dynamics. Recent reports have uncovered the involvement of external actors in perpetuating the conflict.

In May this year, American Senator Ben Cardin, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, raised concerns about a UN Panel of Experts' report from the previous year, which provided evidence of the UAE supplying weapons to the RSF, a group notorious for its brutal tactics. US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, echoed these concerns, calling for “external actors" to stop "fueling and prolonging this conflict and enabling these atrocities by funnelling weapons into Sudan.”

Abu Dhabi has been working vigorously to clear its name in response to these accusations. Through diplomatic channels and humanitarian aid, the UAE has sought to counter allegations of its involvement in the Sudanese civil war. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been funnelled to humanitarian organisations operating in Sudan through various UN agencies, a move seen by many as an attempt by Abu Dhabi to portray itself as a force for good amidst the chaos.

Despite these efforts, a recent UN report has further implicated the UAE. The report exposed that the RSF, supported by Abu Dhabi, committed international crimes by receiving and laundering gold illegally exported from Sudan. The UAE has vehemently denied any involvement in Sudan’s political turmoil or illegal gold trade practices, calling the allegations a political mockery of its humanitarian generosity.

While these revelations add layers of complexity, the international community’s response remains lacklustre. The US and the UN have the political and diplomatic clout to influence the situation, but the resolution of Sudan’s crisis ultimately lies in the hands of its people. The international community can only play a supportive role in the Sudanese-led efforts to resolve the political disorder, providing the necessary space and resources for Sudan to shape its destiny.

Although belatedly, the Addis Abeba-based African Union (AU) has also begun addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan. The Chairperson of the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan, Mohamed Ibn Chambas (PhD), has begun to speak out about the severe impacts of the ongoing civil war. However, stronger official condemnations from the AU were expected, holding all groups and countries involved in the war accountable.

Ironically, Sudan’s revolution is no longer a story of a failed uprising but an ongoing civil war marked by international intrigue and regional power struggles.

[kafus]

my orre colosseum team

i spent the past month or so on-and-off breeding this team for orre colosseum in XD gale of darkness, a postgame challenge i've never played through before. the long time was mostly due to being in bagon hatching purgatory for weeks

i planned out the whole team before breeding it. orre colosseum is basically like gen 3 VGC - bring 6, pick 4 with team preview, no repeating held items, battles are in doubles format. there's not anything else quite like it in gen 3 especially because team preview wasn't the standard yet, so i was kind of in the dark when it came to teambuilding. i knew orre colosseum NPCs had preplanned teams by the devs, not randomized out of a pool of pokemon sets like the tower/frontier , which is more in line with the original stadium games, and it was usually considered a fairly difficult challenge, so i had to give it some thought

this is what i ended up with after skimming some resources for the orre colosseum format played by real players, but not checking orre colosseum teams in advance as i wanted to be surprised. the IVs here are weird since like i said, i spent like a month breeding these pokemon manually (hatched around 2000 eggs overall give or take, i wasn't counting all of them) so their IVs aren't perfect across the board.

the main two things i was keeping in mind while teambuilding were speed, protection from explosion/self-destruct, and spread moves that affect the whole field. tailwind and trick room don't exist yet and speed control options are very limited in gen 3, so base speed and training in speed is really important. additionally spread moves that affect the whole field like earthquake and explosion don't have their damage cut the same way moves that only target both opponents do in this gen, so they're extremely powerful and a team needs to both have access to these options and be able to defend from these options.

i was also hellbent on not using any legendaries (box legendaries and mythicals are banned from orre colosseum AKA restricteds, but legendaries like the kanto bird trio are allowed) and not using metagross or gengar, two of the gen 3 doubles GOATs and... idk i'm just tired of using them frankly, i feel like i have enough skill to beat NPC opponents without them, even if they're tougher. so that's why i don't have pokemon like latios on the team, etc.

i will admit that while teambuilding i completely forgot about rock resistance which is pretty relevant in gen 3 in general... i have THREE pokemon weak to rock and no resisted switch-ins. BUT all rock moves in gen 3 are physical, and i have three intimidate users, so instead of changing up the team i was already attached to after realizing this, i just decided to roll with it.

anyway with all that out of the way and the acknowledgement that this team isn't perfect, i'll explain the pokemon one by one:

first up, tangerine! she was actually the pokemon i teambuilt first and was most excited to use since i got really attached to the persian i used in my recent firered nuzlocke named after my friend zur. in fact, she stems from zur's bloodline so i let zur name her, and they picked tangerine lol. other than just wanting to use one of my current favorites though, persian actually has really nice moveset options for doubles - fake out is not common but is incredibly useful in any doubles format, and icy wind is one of the very few speed control moves in gen 3. double-edge with silk scarf rounds her off with some big damage and shadow ball lets her hit ghost types... though i'll admit protect is definitely more optimal here instead of shadow ball, i just really wanted to use shadow ball because of an ongoing inside joke with zur & co about it (look up the tag #/freakylocke on my blog and you'll find it eventually)

i've played three rounds of orre colosseum so far, so the easier ones, but tangerine has been popping off, she's very useful i'm so proud of her.

tenchi the arcanine is next, also a pokemon i was hellbent on using. during my firered nuzlocke i was really excited to use arcanine since it's a version exclusive and i almost always play leafgreen, but my growlithe died early on from a careless crit, and after that i was determined to use arcanine in the battle tower or something to make up for that disappointment. i ended up routing that desire to orre colosseum instead! the aforementioned dead growlithe was also named after a friend, my friend babs, who picked out the name tenchi.

he's pretty straightforward - overheat does massive damage and ideally he gets to use it twice for free because of the white herb. hidden power grass provides extra coverage and extremespeed lets him pick off weakened opponents. protect lets allies safely use earthquake. also my first intimidate user!

next up, firegreen! bulbasaur was my favorite starter for most of my life until sprigatito came around and venusaur is still one of my most beloved pokemon. his name was recommended to me by my friend note. i was just really captivated by the comedic nature of his name, lol.

he's the team's weather control and has access to sleep powder. synergizes nicely with tenchi who can throw out really powerful overheats in the sun, even with a stat drop. and of course solarbeam is great in the sun.

his EV spread is really specific compared to most of the other pokemon on this team - he has enough speed to outspeed uninvested base 85 speed pokemon, he has enough HP/special defense to live a modest max special attack latios psychic, and the rest i dumped into special attack. this bulk has proven incredibly useful in some battles already so i'm glad i did his EVs the way i did. the slower sleep powders is also convenient for the following guaranteed sleep turn.

now louie the gyarados (named by my friend Serena who was once again a nuzlocke encounter from my firered nuzlocke lol) is kind of a weird one. at this point i knew i was probably going to use salamence, a flying type, and i wanted a second flying type (or levitate haver) for double earthquake immunity. i had also already added arcanine and venusaur to the team, fire and grass types, and fire/water/grass is a known good type combination on a team. so i combined these traits with gyarados - having yet another intimidate user isn't half bad to have either!

i bring him to battles more situationally, ie. in the first round i brought him against lovrina's obvious full stall team because taunt just absolutely decimated hr and prevented her from doing literally anything, even with taunt's crappy 2 turn length in gen 3. he's really meant as a support pokemon - speed control with thunder wave, taunt - and he's meant to stick around as long as possible and be annoying, hence protect and brightpowder (gen 3 doesn't have a lot of hold items so i figured i might as well). but of course i have at least one damaging option and i picked earthquake for that.

i don't remember exactly how i EV'd him but i do know i calculated his HP/defense to live... some rock move... so yeah his EVs improve his match-up into rock type attacks. i dumped the rest into attack, but i may adjust later to give him some speed if necessary, dunno. haven't needed it thus far.

now here's scramble, the only pokemon i actually named myself... her name takes after the sheer amount of eggs i hatched for her, over 800. it was torture. don't ask (lighthearted)

she's the premier damage output of this team and i often lead with tangerine and her so tangerine can use fake out and allow her to get off a substitute, which keeps her safe from most status moves and an attack, and then she can set up dragon dances and absolutely go to town with hidden power flying and earthquake.

i actually ran into a battle with a ditto out of the few battles i've played so far and wound up in a situation where i had to deal with the ditto copying scramble's own singular dragon dance and posing a huge threat to the rest of my team. intimidate really came to the rescue there lol

somehow she ended up being the only non-kanto pokemon on this team. that was not intentional.

and last but not least, scoop! my friend rat recommended the name ice cream scoop, which obviously doesn't fit within the 10 character limit, but i got really attached to the "scoop" part and went with that. he's very straightforward - incredibly fast max speed coverage that hits decently hard and can clean up games from the back. the lum berry is there to prevent him from getting paralyzed or otherwise have his cleanup stopped by status, an d he has protect for ally earthquakes, explosions, etc.

and yeah that's the team. i love them. they took such a ridiculously long time to put together but totally worth it. i'm excited to get back to more orre colosseum when i get the energy

[perhaps-in-anotherdream]

Hi!! ヾ(˶•ᵕ•˶)੭o I hope all is well with you~

I have a question, but it's not related to MLQC. It's about the upcoming 3D Otome game!! Love and Deepspace really piqued my interest and curiosity these days, so if it's alright with you, may I ask about the personalities of the love interests there? Even just brief or what characters from MLQC kind-of resembles them?

I can already see a bit of Victor in Zayne/Li Shen (which is my type!!) and Gavin in Xavier/Shen XingHui though, but I'm not sure. ><

Thank you so much!! ⸜(˶ ˃ ᵕ ˂ ˶)⸝♡

hello ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و ♡ well... things are pretty hectic still, but i’m fighting through. hope everything is well with you too~

sorry for the late reply, but i wanted to compare the changes in writing in the ongoing (3rd) CBT before making assessments. and tbh, the writing is still very much under development.

they have already made several changes in the main story plot, the interactions between the heroine/ you and the love interests (majorly with Li Shen as there were severe complaints regarding unstable writing + medically wrong terms after the prev. beta). and after the feedbacks from this beta, i’m sure there will be further optimizations until the official release, so it’s still pretty early to comment on the love interests’ personalities. but if you want me to analogize the current impressions to the lovepro characters, yes, you’re right on the money haha.

Li Shen does share the same strict and stern on the outside but a big bowl of marshmallow on the inside personality as Victor + the extensive use of idioms in the sentences, the either firm or gentle hold on your hand he always has are sure to remind you of a certain someone haha. Li Shen and the heroine have a childhood connection too.

as for Shen XingHui, similar to Gavin, assumption is he’d be a knight character. he is very sweet and happy-go-lucky, but there’s a calmness to him too. might be a little too bland for some people at first, but there’s potential, plus his identity itself makes him super important to the plot, so, hold on haha.

Qi Yu is kind of like a mystery to me still. yes he gives off that enormous bratty energy, but there’s also a quiet side to him (kind of a given since he’s an artist by profession). he’s more like a blend of Kiro and Shaw?? tho it currently feels like the writers aren’t really sure about how to balance his character, whether to build him around the quiet side or to focus on the young energy. b/c while it’s not impossible for them to coexist, too much of one trait could totally strike out the other and seem delusional.

anyway, final words, my recommendation would be to keep an open mind. while these characters do share traits with the characters of their parent game, they are unique characters of their own, embracing their own characteristics and stories. and the writing approach is still subject to change, so~ ∠( ᐛ 」∠)_

—

[crossatlanticsoftware-blog]

How to Choose the Best Shopify Website Design Company for Your Store in 2025?

In the ever-evolving world of eCommerce, having a well-designed and fully optimized Shopify store is no longer just an option – it's a necessity. As more consumers turn to online shopping, brands must ensure their Shopify website delivers an exceptional user experience, reflects the brand's identity, and supports seamless transactions. This is where a professional Shopify website design company can make all the difference.

Cross Atlantic Software, we understand that the decision to hire a Shopify website design company is a major step in your eCommerce journey. With so many service providers available, making the right choice can be overwhelming. This article aims to guide you through the most important factors to consider when selecting the right partner for your Shopify website design in 2025.

1. Understand Your Goals and Business Needs

Before you even begin searching for a Shopify website design company, clearly outline what you want your Shopify store to achieve. Are you launching a new brand, rebranding an existing one, or scaling up operations? Do you need custom integrations, advanced product filtering, or mobile-first Shopify design?

Having a clear vision will help you communicate effectively with potential design partners and ensure they align with your goals.

2. Look for Specialized Shopify Expertise

Not all web design companies specialize in Shopify. It's essential to choose a team that lives and breathes Shopify website design. Shopify has its own ecosystem, with unique themes, apps, and a proprietary Liquid coding language. Hiring a company that focuses specifically on Shopify design ensures they understand the platform inside-out.

Cross Atlantic Software has dedicated Shopify experts who have built and optimized hundreds of Shopify stores, giving clients the edge they need to compete in saturated markets.

3. Review Their Portfolio and Past Work

A reputable Shopify website design company should have a robust portfolio showcasing their past work. Look for:

Aesthetically pleasing, modern designs

Fast-loading Shopify websites

Mobile responsiveness

Seamless checkout experiences

Custom features like animations or personalized recommendations

Pay attention to diversity in their projects. This tells you whether the company can adapt their Shopify design to different industries and audiences.

4. Read Client Reviews and Testimonials

Real feedback from past clients is one of the most reliable ways to evaluate a Shopify website design company. Look beyond just the star ratings. Focus on detailed testimonials that highlight communication, professionalism, turnaround time, and post-launch support.

Cross Atlantic Software, we don’t just deliver projects — we build partnerships that grow with your business. Many of our clients have been with us for years, and we’re proud to be part of their ongoing success stories. Our testimonials reflect our commitment to excellence and custom-tailored Shopify website design solutions.

5. Ask About the Design and Development Process

Transparency is crucial. A reliable Shopify website design company should be able to walk you through their process from start to finish:

Initial Consultation

Strategy & Planning

Wireframing & Prototyping

Shopify Theme Customization or Custom Build

QA Testing & Optimization

Launch & Post-Launch Support

Knowing how your design team works isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. When everyone’s on the same page from day one, the process becomes smoother, timelines are clearer, and there are no last-minute surprises.

6. Consider Their Understanding of UX and Conversion Optimization

Good design isn't just about looking pretty. A successful Shopify website should convert visitors into buyers. That requires deep knowledge of user behavior, sales funnels, and design psychology.

Choose a Shopify website design company that prioritizes:

Clear CTAs (Call to Action)

Simple navigation

Fast page load times

Engaging product pages

Mobile-first design

Cross Atlantic Software, our team fuses creative Shopify design with data-backed UX principles to help you maximize conversions and sales.

7. Evaluate Support and Maintenance Services

Your Shopify store needs continuous updates, improvements, and sometimes emergency fixes. Make sure your design partner offers ongoing support even after launch. Ask questions like:

Do they offer monthly maintenance packages?

How do they handle bugs or errors?

Will you have a go-to person to call when something breaks or when you need a quick update? A dedicated point of contact makes all the difference when time and clarity matter most.

Cross Atlantic Software offers flexible support plans to ensure your Shopify website stays up-to-date, secure, and optimized at all times.

8. Transparency in Pricing

Clear pricing is a mark of a trustworthy Shopify website design company. While it's tempting to go with the lowest quote, remember that quality design and development require expertise and time.

Request a detailed breakdown of costs, including design, development, apps, and post-launch services. A good partner will explain every line item and adjust to fit your budget where possible.

9. Look for Creative Collaboration, Not Just Execution

The best outcomes happen when the design company works with you as a creative partner rather than just following orders. You should feel heard, respected, and inspired during the design journey.

Cross Atlantic Software, we treat every client as a collaborator. Our team engages in regular brainstorming sessions and strategy calls to ensure your vision translates beautifully into a high-performing Shopify store.

10. Check If They Offer Additional Services

Many eCommerce businesses need more than just Shopify website design. Check if your prospective partner can also help with:

SEO Optimization

Email Marketing Integration

App Integrations

Product Photography

Social Media Integration

A company that offers a comprehensive solution can save you time, money, and the hassle of managing multiple vendors.

Cross Atlantic Software provides end-to-end services to make your Shopify store launch as seamless and impactful as possible.

Conslusion:

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[guiltygearconfessions]

More Guilty Gear fans should try engaging with Blazblue’s universe earnestly. There’s a really big gap in the way ArcSys does their writing and design for Guilty Gear and it’s called, “We lost the rights to make Guilty Gear for a bit.” So, during that time they made Blazblue instead! It’s not entirely the same, but you definitely get the vibe they were made by the same groups of people. The ongoing development of Blazblue sort of relates to Guilty Gear’s development as a series too! I know it’s really easy to be like, haha Blazblue sucks <insert dunk on Mori> or something, but I honestly feel that it’s a very sincere series in the same way GG is.

More important than that (more relevant), is that you get a sense of how the series arrived at the point it’s at now, in contrast to the classic Guilty Gear games from before they lost the rights. Basically, I’m saying that engaging with Blazblue can deepen the way you engage with Guilty Gear. Plus, it might take off some of the weird stink Guilty Gear fans have on the subject of BB (I was going to talk about that but my optimism won over my frustration).

Even if you can’t bring yourself to do that, the soundtrack is still worth looking into. I think it’s some of Daisuke’s best work, even though it’s more experimental and straying away from Guilty Gear’s more hard rock theming.

-

[utilitycaster]

What is your favorite build for any of the cr pcs?

Fjord. I think I've answered a few similar questions recently, so I thought I'd elaborate here on what I'm taking into account specifically when it comes to PC build!

The following all works in concert in a good build - in fact "cohesiveness" is part of the consideration - so it's not like, a discrete point-based system or anything, but I've tried to break it down for ease of understanding.

Is it a build that requires a lot of player skill to craft/customize? This doesn't mean that a very straightforward build can't be good, but if we're talking mechanics, a character like (for example) Caduceus is both a very good build, but doesn't demonstrate a ton of build choices. He has a strong subclass and some good proficiency choices given the party composition, but there's no need for spell choice (prepped caster), no multiclassing, and generally very little that's modular. This is going to be true of basically all the clerics and druids we have - they're powerful classes, but the main decisions made by the player are just day-to-day spell prep. There needs to be modular choice with long-standing consequences for me to actually get intrigued by the build: this means casters who are not prep-based (ie, those for whom spell list matters); multiclasses; and classes or subclasses with lots of ongoing choice involved (eg: warlock invocations; battlemaster maneuvers). So this rules out a lot of characters. (Feats are modular for everyone, but they're infrequent and also ASIs are really valuable and I am in favor of them; they are taken into account here but they're the cherry on the sundae, not the ice cream itself.)

Are the mechanics good: part 1: optimization. Are you good at things? What are you optimized for? As my url indicates I do prefer versatility/support casting capability, but I'm open to being optimized for something more specific. However, in that case...

Are the mechanics good: part 2: party comp. This is tough in Critical Role in that their sessions zero are more screen tests than a consideration of party composition, which is one of the things I associate heavily with a session zero. As such this is about how the character evolves once the gaps within the party are revealed. But there's more to a character than min-maxing themselves or rounding out the party, which brings us to...

Are the mechanics good: part 3: integration with character. Are the build choices being made because of the character arc? Is this narratively earned? Does it tell us something about who that character is?

And so: Fjord is a very modular build (spell choice, invocation choice, multiclass, weapon/fighting style). He is strong on pretty much every possible combat/utility ability with the exception of area of effect, which in a party with a wizard, two clerics, and an arcane trickster isn't terribly important: he serves as a tank; he serves as a capable backup healer; he is an impressive damage-dealer with a wide range of damage types available to him and who is equally capable in melee and at significant distances; and he has multiple short-range teleportation options and the mobile feat making it very easy for him to get around the battlefield. His charisma-based skills are important in a party with relatively low charisma. Hexadin is one of the rare good multiclasses for warlock and actively addresses his comparably low physical stats and is extremely narratively earned in-game. His classes, subclasses, and invocations are strongly worn into his character, thematically, and are extremely useful, and his spell choice was something Travis actively picked and revised during the campaign.

[nicolebellshares]

Choosing the Right Microphones for Business Meetings

In today's fast-paced business environment, effective communication is paramount. Whether it's a team meeting, client presentation, or a virtual conference, the clarity of audio plays a crucial role in ensuring messages are conveyed accurately. Investing in high-quality microphones and professional conference room microphone installation can significantly enhance the efficiency and professionalism of your meetings.

Types of Microphones Suitable for Conference Rooms

Selecting the appropriate microphone type is the first step toward achieving optimal audio quality in your conference room. Here are the primary options:

1. Ceiling Microphones

Ceiling microphones are mounted overhead, providing a clutter-free table surface and a clean aesthetic. They are ideal for rooms where table space is limited or where a minimalist design is preferred. Ceiling microphones can capture audio from all participants without the need for individual microphones.

2. Tabletop Microphones

Tabletop microphones are placed directly on the conference table, close to the participants. They are known for delivering high-quality audio due to their proximity to the speakers. These microphones are suitable for smaller rooms or meetings with a limited number of participants.

3. Wireless Microphones

Wireless microphones offer flexibility and mobility, allowing speakers to move freely around the room without being tethered by cables. They are ideal for dynamic presentations or interactive sessions where participants may need to stand or move during discussions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Microphones

When selecting microphones for your conference room, consider the following factors to ensure optimal performance:

1. Room Size and Acoustics

The size and acoustic properties of your conference room significantly influence microphone selection. Larger rooms may require microphones with broader pickup patterns or multiple units to cover the entire space. Additionally, rooms with hard surfaces may cause echo or reverberation, necessitating microphones with noise-canceling features.

2. Integration with Existing AV Systems

Ensure that the chosen microphones are compatible with your existing audio-visual (AV) systems. Seamless integration minimizes technical issues and ensures a smooth user experience. It's advisable to consult with AV professionals to assess compatibility and integration requirements.

3. Budget Constraints

While it's essential to invest in quality equipment, it's equally important to consider your budget. Evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of different microphone options and choose solutions that offer the best value without compromising on essential features.

Importance of Professional Installation for Optimal Performance

Professional conference room microphone installation is critical to achieving the best audio quality and system reliability. Here's why:

Optimal Placement: AV professionals can determine the best microphone placement to capture audio effectively while minimizing background noise and feedback.

System Calibration: Experts can calibrate the microphones and integrate them with your existing AV systems, ensuring balanced audio levels and consistent performance.

Technical Support: Professional installers provide ongoing support and maintenance, addressing any issues promptly and minimizing downtime.

Compliance and Safety: Certified installers ensure that all equipment meets industry standards and safety regulations, reducing liability risks.

Conclusion

Selecting the right microphones and ensuring professional conference room microphone installation are vital steps toward enhancing communication in your business meetings. By considering factors such as room size, acoustics, system integration, and budget, you can choose the most suitable microphone solutions. Engaging AV professionals for installation not only guarantees optimal performance but also provides ongoing support and peace of mind.

Investing in quality audio solutions reflects your commitment to effective communication and professionalism, ultimately contributing to the success of your business operations.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Reference archived on our website

Published in January of 2021. This is why "test/mask if you feel ill" doesn't and cannot work.

Key Points Question What proportion of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread is associated with transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from persons with no symptoms?

Findings In this decision analytical model assessing multiple scenarios for the infectious period and the proportion of transmission from individuals who never have COVID-19 symptoms, transmission from asymptomatic individuals was estimated to account for more than half of all transmission.

Meaning The findings of this study suggest that the identification and isolation of persons with symptomatic COVID-19 alone will not control the ongoing spread of SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract Importance Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is readily transmitted person to person. Optimal control of COVID-19 depends on directing resources and health messaging to mitigation efforts that are most likely to prevent transmission, but the relative importance of such measures has been disputed.

Objective To assess the proportion of SARS-CoV-2 transmissions in the community that likely occur from persons without symptoms.

Design, Setting, and Participants This decision analytical model assessed the relative amount of transmission from presymptomatic, never symptomatic, and symptomatic individuals across a range of scenarios in which the proportion of transmission from people who never develop symptoms (ie, remain asymptomatic) and the infectious period were varied according to published best estimates. For all estimates, data from a meta-analysis was used to set the incubation period at a median of 5 days. The infectious period duration was maintained at 10 days, and peak infectiousness was varied between 3 and 7 days (−2 and +2 days relative to the median incubation period). The overall proportion of SARS-CoV-2 was varied between 0% and 70% to assess a wide range of possible proportions.

Main Outcomes and Measures Level of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from presymptomatic, never symptomatic, and symptomatic individuals.

Results The baseline assumptions for the model were that peak infectiousness occurred at the median of symptom onset and that 30% of individuals with infection never develop symptoms and are 75% as infectious as those who do develop symptoms. Combined, these baseline assumptions imply that persons with infection who never develop symptoms may account for approximately 24% of all transmission. In this base case, 59% of all transmission came from asymptomatic transmission, comprising 35% from presymptomatic individuals and 24% from individuals who never develop symptoms. Under a broad range of values for each of these assumptions, at least 50% of new SARS-CoV-2 infections was estimated to have originated from exposure to individuals with infection but without symptoms.

Conclusions and Relevance In this decision analytical model of multiple scenarios of proportions of asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 and infectious periods, transmission from asymptomatic individuals was estimated to account for more than half of all transmissions. In addition to identification and isolation of persons with symptomatic COVID-19, effective control of spread will require reducing the risk of transmission from people with infection who do not have symptoms. These findings suggest that measures such as wearing masks, hand hygiene, social distancing, and strategic testing of people who are not ill will be foundational to slowing the spread of COVID-19 until safe and effective vaccines are available and widely used.