#Pain Management Devices Market

[chetanagp]

The Pain Management Devices Market was valued at US$ 7.01 Bn. in 2022. The Global Pain Management Devices Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% over the forecast period.

[industryinsightsandanalysis]

Pain Management Devices Market Analysis and Forecast (2021-2027)

The global pain management devices market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of approximately 8% from 2021 to 2027. This growth is driven by an increasing geriatric population, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, technological advancements in medical devices, and heightened awareness about pain management solutions.

Key Market Drivers:

1. Increasing Geriatric Population: The aging population is more prone to chronic diseases and pain, necessitating effective pain management solutions. For instance, the CDC reported that 5.8 million Americans were living with Alzheimer's disease in 2020, a number expected to nearly triple by 2060.

2. Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: Conditions such as arthritis and cancer, which are associated with significant pain, are on the rise. The CDC states that about 58.5 million U.S. adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

3. Technological Advancements: Innovations in medical technology enhance the effectiveness and adoption of pain management devices. These advancements are pivotal in minimally invasive treatments, contributing to the growth of segments like RF ablation.

4. Rising Awareness: Increased awareness about the availability and benefits of pain management devices boosts market demand.

For a comprehensive analysis of the market drivers, visit: https://univdatos.com/report/pain-management-devices-market/

Market Segmentation:

1. By Product Type:

   - Electrical Stimulators: Devices that use electrical currents to relieve pain.

   - Radiofrequency (RF) Ablation: Expected to witness significant growth due to its minimally invasive nature and effectiveness in treating chronic pain.

   - Analgesic Infusion Pumps: Deliver analgesic medications directly to the bloodstream.

   - Neurostimulation: Use electrical impulses to interrupt pain signals to the brain.

   - Others: Include various emerging pain management technologies.

2. By Application:

   - Cancer: Accounts for a significant share due to the high incidence of cancer-related chronic pain. WHO reported nearly 10 million cancer-related deaths in 2020.

   - Neuropathic Pain: Chronic pain resulting from nerve damage.

   - Facial & Migraine Pain: Chronic headache and facial pain conditions.

   - Musculoskeletal Disorders: Conditions affecting muscles, bones, and joints.

   - Trauma: Pain resulting from injuries.

   - Others: Other chronic pain conditions.

3. By End-User:

   - Physiotherapy Centers: Specialize in physical rehabilitation and pain management.

   - Hospitals & Clinics: Hold a significant share due to their comprehensive treatment capabilities and high patient influx.

   - Others: Include home care settings and specialized pain clinics.

Regional Insights:

- North America: Dominates the market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and high healthcare spending. Canada's annual healthcare expenditure per person increased by about 9% from 2016 to 2019.

- Europe: Follows North America in market share, driven by high healthcare standards and investments.

- Asia-Pacific: Rapidly growing due to increasing healthcare access and expenditure.

- Rest of the World: Includes regions with developing healthcare systems but growing awareness and adoption of pain management devices.

Key Market Players:

Major players in the market include B Braun Melsungen AG, Baxter International Inc., Boston Scientific Corp., Nevro Corp., Enovis, OMRON Healthcare Inc., Medtronic plc, ICU Medical Inc., Abbott Laboratories, and Stryker Corporation. These companies are involved in mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships to enhance their product offerings and market reach.

For a sample report, visit https://univdatos.com/get-a-free-sample-form-php/?product_id=22791

Conclusion:

The pain management devices market is poised for substantial growth due to demographic shifts, rising chronic disease prevalence, and technological advancements. This growth will likely lead to more effective pain management solutions and improved patient outcomes.

Contact Us:

UnivDatos Market Insights

Email - contact@univdatos.com

Contact Number - +1 9782263411

Website -www.univdatos.com

[sarena1995]

Pain Management Devices Market Size, Share, Growth, Trend & Forecast to 2030 | Credence Research

The latest market report published by Credence Research, Inc. The global demand for Pain Management Devices market was valued at USD 8615.2 Million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 5417.8 Million in 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.90% between 2024 and 2032.

The global pain management devices market has been witnessing significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of pain management techniques and the rising prevalence of chronic pain conditions. These devices have evolved to provide more effective and non-invasive solutions for pain relief, offering hope to millions of individuals suffering from various pain-related ailments. In this article, we will explore the key trends and developments in the pain management devices market.

Chronic pain, often characterized as pain lasting for more than 12 weeks, is a growing global health concern. Conditions such as arthritis, back pain, migraines, and neuropathic pain affect millions of people worldwide, leading to a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems. The pain management devices market is witnessing a surge in demand due to the increasing prevalence of chronic pain conditions.

The pain management devices market has seen remarkable technological advancements in recent years. Innovations such as neuromodulation, radiofrequency ablation, and ultrasound therapy have made pain management more precise and less invasive. Neuromodulation devices, for instance, can target specific nerves responsible for pain, offering relief without the need for opioids or invasive surgeries.

Browse the Full Report: https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/pain-management-devices-market

[sugar-plum-writer]

Company Cam-Girl <3

Tags: Gang-bang [Toji, Sukuna, Gojo and Suguru]; Use of toys [vibrator]; slight-bondage; size-kink; camera; public-exposure; nsfw + more nsfw; porn with slight plot; manhandling; unprotected sex; spanking; over-stimulation; cream pie; c*mplay; rough sex; lot's and lot's of very dirty talk; explicit; MNDI!; (18+); smut

A/n: This is probably the most explicit thing I might have written; my hazy imagination is getting too much. This period is killing me so it's just pure filth, this is pure porn with a little plot so MDNI!

Synopsis: What happens when a slight back talk results in getting railed and over stimulated like crazy by 4 big men in the sex-toy company?

Word count: 2.6k

[Pic not mine I randomly found it on the internet; I'll change it the owner requests ]

Your heels clicked on the floor as you walked, the place you worked was- explicit to say the least. You would have never expected to work in a company like this when you graduated- literally; a sex toy manufacturing company? beyond your wildest dreams

You were working here all because of pure desperation. Broke with college debts does not make life easy. The position gave good pay, insurance, good bonus, what else could you ask for? hence you continued working.

You worked in the marketing department which was a headache as it sometimes made you wonder how to advertise certain devices.

"Y/n- the manager is calling you to discuss the latest high-intensity vibrator ad!", one of your colleagues yelled giving you the papers and walking away

You looked at the paper which outlined the build, the components, the types of intensity, movements, etc normal people would look away and even be embarrassed but- after a while, it became average to you like another Tuesday.

"Alright, tell him I'll be there, " you yelled, browsing the pages as you entered the office.

x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x

"This design is so outdated… we need a new design-", Suguru muttered as he sat at his desk scrolling annoyed, the cigarette hanging off his lips

Toji clicked his tongue as he leaned back on his chair, "Damn if only we could experiment it on someone and record everything down", his deep voice sent a shiver down your spine

"I could always get a hook-up to try it out~", Gojo muttered with a smirk, "I don't mind"

"You fools", Sukuna scorned, "A hook-up won't give accurate data- her fucking brain will just be mushy, ask any questions-", he rolled his eyes, "her replies will just be fucking moans"

"Don't any of you have a girlfriend or somethin'?", Toji groaned as he grabbed his beer bottle, drowning it down, "You can get her and we can experiment"

"Nah- I asked my ex once she nearly threw a god-damn vase at my face", chuckling Gojo scrolled through his phone

"Ah, shit-"

With a groan, they collectively sighed. The atmosphere in the room was tense- after all, they were your superiors, you were just a mere girl from the PR department

"um- excuse me", clenching the papers tight you looked at them all, "T-The documents have an error-", you tried to keep your voice stable

"Oh shut up woman", Sukuna glared as he walked towards you, "Can't you read the room? or are you senseless?"

"Huh-?", rage-filled your veins, you were already annoyed with overwork- been working so hard not to let it get to you but this- this was the last straw.

"You are the senseless one!", you snapped back, "You assholes can't even design a vibrator properly! Look at you discussing this shit!", you scorned and shoved the paper on Sukunas face as you glared at the others

"What did you just say you fucking bitch-", Sukuna grabbed your jaw pinning you against the wall

"You deaf?", glaring into his eyes you scoffed, "I said you assholes cannot even design a fucking vibrator"

"Yo, calm down", Gojo yelled as he made his way towards you and Sukuna

"Fuck off-", his grip on you tightened choking you

"What a pain in the ass", Toji grabbed Sukuna with Suguru and pulled him back

"Tch", groaning he let go of you while Gojo picked up the fallen papers

"You alright?", Sugurus eyes locked with yours- something about his cold black eyes- gave you goosebumps all over your skin

"Y-Yeah" Gasping for air you coughed as you looked at Sukuna who was starting to calm down more

"You said we can't design a vibrator, right?" Toji smirked with a dangerous glint in his eyes

"Y-Yeah..", You backed away afraid. Something about his expression makes you instinctively back away as if your body subconsciously tried to protect itself

"Why not be our test subject? we lacked one anyways~", with a sneer he leaned in. The atmosphere in the room changed as all eyes were on you.

"Your fool brain finally came up with a good idea", grinning Sukuna fixed his blazer, "What do you say woman? or are you too scared?"

"W-What!? no way never!", you immediately shook your head shaking it crazily

"Awwww come on~ it'll be fun I promise!", Gojo nudged you wrapping his arm around your shoulder

"No way!", slapping his hand away you glared

"See you said we can't design good vibrators", putting out the cigarette in his mouth Suguru shrugged, "Have you ever even used one of our vibrators to know if it's bad? ever cummed dripping wet?"

You blushed hard, "W-what explicit nonsense are you even saying!?", shoving the papers on his face you scowled

"Oh~ is someone scared?" smugly Sukuna leaned in and whispered near your ears, his hot breath sending shivers down your spine

"N-No I'm not! It's just a vibrator!", shoving him away you tried to push the men away

"Great!", standing behind you Gojo wrapped his arms around your waist pulling you close, "I'll even let you try out my new designs baby~"

"Hey! Bun-head, grab the newest vibrators and bring them here", Sukuna yelled, "We found a pussy to try it on!" he chuckled deviously

"What-!?" before you could say anything Toji cut you off, "Bring some lube too, I just know she's tight as fuck", smirking he looked into your eyes

"Alright, alright- I'll even bring a camera to record it. Need the data", with this- Suguru went to get all the items whistling

All while you stood stunned- how did you even end up like this? How did a small comeback develop to- well- this?!

"You did it to yourself, baby girl, ~ if only you hadn't opened that darn mouth of yours", with a chuckle Gojo whispered near your ears

"oh well, I'll look after you well~"

x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x

"Is the Pussy visible?" Gojo leaned in as he looked at the screen of the camera

"Yeah, just gotta zoom in more", Suguru adjusted the camera, the RBG ratio, etc as he zoomed in

With your legs spread apart on Sukunas desk- your panties are removed as your cunt's all visible in the camera. Rather than an office it looked like a porn production set.

"Hm…she's tight", Toji looked at your cunt, "I wonder when's the last time she got fucked", Sukuna muttered

"Shut up!? what the fuck do you think you are even saying-", embarrassed you looked at both of them annoyed, "Just by looking at my- my pussy you think you can say such things?"

"Doll, I have seen enough to know what pussy has not been fucked and how well it was fucked", chuckling Sukuna smirked

Hearing Sukuna's comment Toji, Gojo and Suguru snickered

"Damn right", smiling smugly Suguru stood up and walked towards you

"You-", too stunned to speak you just lower your head, "How can they say such things!?" you think as you take a sharp breath blushing; almost embarrassed with the explicitness but it was low-key hot.

You hated to admit it but you were aroused as fuck. The cool air brushed against your cunt making the walls quiver, 4 hot guys gazing at you as they discuss what's the best way to record your pussy holding vibrators in the office. It made you get even more wet with your cunt oozing out and dripping, making a mess on Sukuna's desk.

"Look she's already dripping and making a mess how cute~ how needy", Gojo chuckled

"Well can't leave her like this can we?" with a smirk rolling up his sleeves Sukuna started circling his fingers around your clitoris- flicking it a bit making you gasp

"W-wait!" trying to stabilize yourself at the sudden wave of pleasure you try to focus elsewhere, your hands and body trembled at the way he abused your clitoris

"Where's your mind goin'?" Toji cups your breasts and starts kneading them, pinching and flicking the nipples making you squirm and moan

"T-Toji wait ah-" your eyes widen as your feel Sukunas fingers do deeper stretching you out ruthlessly, "She's tight- Fuck", he gritted his teeth

Tossing your head back you try to cover your mouth but it was instantly pulled away by Toji, "Can't have you cover your mouth now can we sweetheart?", smugly he pulled your shirt up and tied your hands with it

"Nice boobs you got here", Gojo brushed his hand against your breasts, fondling them, "I wonder how hard the nipples can get heh~", smirking he brought his lips closer to your nipples and started sucking on them making you moan even louder, "Gojo- ah! 'tis too much wait-!" earning only a chuckle from him as he sucked even harder biting it

"The Vibrator No 1 is ready~ let's see how well you take it darling", smirking Suguru stood beside Sukuna- turning the vibrator on and putting it down on your cunt grinding it, the movements so good you felt you were on cloud 9; while Sukuna continued to move his fingers deeper stretching you out.

"Smile for the camera doll", smirking Sukuna slapped your pussy which stinged a bit but also made you so fucking wet it was embarrassing

The intense stimulation from the vibrator immediately made you arch your back, toss your head back and let out the loudest moans you could muster, it was stimulating- too stimulating.

It was too much- your poor pussy could not stand so much abuse. It was all puffy, sobbing wet, begging for mercy as it dripped and oozed pre-cum. Tears stained your cheeks as you whined and moaned

Your breasts were off even worse, the biting and sucking of Gojo had swollen your nipples so much. The bite marks covering your breasts stung but also gave you so much pleasure wanting more

"Fuck- who knew we had such a natural cam-girl?", licking his lips Toji just watched your expressions hungrily wanting to devour you

"I know right? Should have fucked her and filled her up first", chuckling Suguru increased the intensity of the vibrator to it's highest limit making you gasp and moan, squirm all at once, "Let's see how loud she can scream eh?"

"Oh my God! it's too much ah-" tossing your head back you squeezed your thighs shut as your eyes rolled back and you climaxed instantly because of the intensity

"Stay still, how bratty", slapping your thighs Sukuna spread your legs open forcefully holding them down, his fingers covered in your release, "Heh- who said the vibrator was bad huh? look at the amount of cum", smirking he licked it off his fingers making you blush harder and be even wetter.

"D-Don't-!" you frantically tried to wipe your cum off his fingers too bad Toji held your arms down all tied up

"I wanna taste some too~", licking his lips smugly Gojo with a quick movement shoved his fingers inside your cunt and licked it

"How sweet I can eat her out forever~ Try some Suguru"

"Oh don't mind if I do~"

Seeing them taste your cum from their fingers made you almost lose your mind and your brain felt mushy. The camera still recording everything that they were doing to you. It was so crazy

"Hah- finally stretched out, what a good fucking pussy", Sukuna smirked satisfied

"We can finally put the vibrator in~ shall we put two?", Gojo chuckled as he gazed at your cunt

"I think she can take it~" smugly Toji looked you in the eyes, "She's such a good girl after all. Aren't you baby?"

"Well" with a sneer Suguru finally put the vibrator inside you with the highest intensity, "Let's see what she can do, go at it girl show what you got~"

Hungrily they all gazed at you, their eyes those of starving wolves who wanted to completely devour you, fill you up- breed you so fucking well like the way you deserve. You had no idea what a raging boner they had seeing you and your cunt.

"Oh my god- ah- hah~", moaning you squirm as the vibrator continued to hit all the right spots- making your whole body-shake, your walls clenching so tight- holding on for dear life; "Fuck it's so good!", biting your lips you closed your eyes as you felt your brain going numb.

It felt like it was designed specifically for you, the way it hit your G-spot was driving you mad. It kept pushing you over the edge again and again.

"Shit", biting his lips Sukuna approached you, his hard-on evident, bulging fully, so big it made you wonder if it would even fit.

"Moaning like a whore just from a mere vibrator", unbuckling his pants he removed the vibrator making you sequel and whimper

"Guy's let's give her the best fuck of her life shall we?", smirking he positioned himself to your entrance and slammed in without warning, doing deep, hard and fast thrusts- hitting your G-spot again and again

"Fuck, so good, shit how was I missing out on such good pussy"

The vibrator already broke your brain in the beginning and now feeling Sukuna fuck you, so big- so hard- filling you up so well drove you even more over the edge. Your throat had gone dry from all the moaning

Toji, Gojo and Suguru also unable to keep their hand to themselves any longer; unbuckled their belts with their hard on started jerking off standing beside you, letting out grunts and moans imagining fucking you. Making you suck on their dicks like the good girl you were.

Seeing how big they all were you wondered how your poor cunt will ever be able to take them all inside.

Your vision was going white with all the pleasure as you clenched around Sukuna's dick, squeezing him so tight he tossed his head back pussy drunk just wanting to feel you all around him.

You don't know many hours went by all you know is they all took their turns fucking you- in all positions, filling you up with their cum; praising you and telling how much of a good girl you are, how well you are taking them.

You were fully- completely knocked out and brain fucked. The office fully messy from the desk to the couch and all vibrators gone.

x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x

The next moment you wake up, sharp pain shoots up and down your body as you groan.

"Oh look who woke up, our cam-girl", chucking Toji sat beside you while the others crowded around you

That's when everything hit you all at once and you look down finding yourself completely and utterly naked.

"You took us all in so well baby~ my dicks never been more satisfied", Gojo lifted you making you sit on his lap and kissed your neck

"S-Shut up! I need to go!" you blushed hard and tried to stand up but tripped

"What a brat, you really think you can stand? how annoying, you were better brain fucked", Sukuna immediately grabs you supporting you to not fall

"You!-" feeling your blood boil you immediately try to open your mouth to yell all kinds of profanities

"Oh she's awake", Suguru entered the room smirking, "Still naked is she? are we going for another round? Because I am down"

"I'll die if we do another round!?" in panic you look at them all in the eyes earning a chuckle and a light slap on your ass from Sukuna making you whine

"Shut up you aren't going anywhere from today onwards you are our girl"

"Huh!?", you gasp in shock

"Everything we did is recorded", Gojo chuckled grinning, "Suguru even finished processing it darling~ thank you for your-", he tossed a vibrator to you and winked, "lovely data"

You stand utterly stunned knowing there is no way out from this, they'll eat you alive whenever they please. You are officially the company's cam-girl and test-subject.

Congrats on your promotion~ <3

My Masterlist!

[meditech-insights]

Pain Management Devices Market Forecast By Top Leading Players | Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Abbott, BD, Stryker

Pain is an unpleasant sensation and emotional experience usually caused by tissue damage. Pain can be either acute or chronic. According to the 2019 National Health Interview Survey, more than 7% United States adults had chronic pain syndrome, which limited their ability to perform out normal tasks at work.

The Global Pain Management Devices Market is expected to grow at a rate of 9% to reach ~$3.5 billion by 2026. Rising cases of chronic pain-inducing diseases (like diabetes, muscoskeletal disorders), increased geriatric population, favorable reimbursement scenario for spinal cord stimulation (SCS) devices in developed countries, rising R&D investment, increasing incidence of sports injuries and cancer, and growing demand for chronic pain management in home care treatment are some of the main factors driving the global pain management devices market.

Advent of Advanced Pain Management Technologies Drives the Pain Management Devices Market

At the moment, oral medications are the primary line of treatment for pain management since they are easily available and less expensive. The quality of treatment and care, however, has greatly improved in recent years as a result of the development of advanced technologies, FDA-approved non-prescription medical devices, devices used in combination with prescription medications, or other kinds of pain management therapy.

Spinal cord stimulators, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation devices, analgesic infusion pumps, and ablation devices are numerous types of pain management devices available in the market.

Numerous advancements have recently been developed to improve the quality of life for people suffering from chronic pain, including:

In October 2021, SPR Therapeutics secured $37M VP funding to scale operations for Sprint pain relief device

In August 2020, Medtronic launched its FDA-approved neurostimulator, called the InterStim Micro Neurostimulator which helps patients to effective control bladder and bowel movement

Explore Premium Report on Pain Management Devices Market @ https://meditechinsights.com/pain-management-devices-market/

Key Challenges/ Constraints: Pain Management Devices Market

Patients with chronic pain who are no longer responding to drug therapy usually turn to pain management devices as a second line of treatment. Hypersensitivity reactions and post-operative infections caused due to the use of these devices are likely to hamper growth of the pain management devices market.

North America Leads in terms of Adoption of Pain Management Devices Market

With a >50% market share, North America dominates the market for pain management devices, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. Some of the major factors influencing the market growth include the need for drug-free therapies, the availability of well-planned reimbursement and insurance coverage, and the presence of major players in this region.

Competitive Landscape Analysis of Pain Management Devices Market

The global pain management devices market is marked by presence of established key players such as Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Abbott, BD, Baxter International, Stryker, Smiths Medical, Nipro Corporation, Nevro Corp., Mindray Microtransponder, among others.

For More Detailed Insights, Contact Us @ https://meditechinsights.com/contact-us/

About Medi-Tech Insights

Medi-Tech Insights is a healthcare-focused business research & insights firm. Our clients include Fortune 500 companies, blue-chip investors & hyper-growth start-ups. We have completed 100+ projects in Digital Health, Healthcare IT, Medical Technology, Medical Devices & Pharma Services.

Contact:

Ruta Halde

Associate, Medi-Tech Insights

+32 498 86 80 79

info@meditechinsights.com

[realmofimagines]

Don’t Make A Habit of Dying (Simon “Ghost” Riley x Reader)

follow @cowboybxtch (my other account) for more ghost content, as i will not be posting on this blog anymore <3

Wordcount: 3241 Content: swearing, near death, graphic depictions of gore, blood, injury, ghost is in love with u, soap is oblivious, heroic ghost, pre existing relationsip, tension  Request: no Note: *just wanna preface this by saying it is not proof read lol* i am absolutely unashamed to be jumping on the ghost bandwagon. i finished the campaign yesterday and honestly i sort of rushed through it bc it was a lot of fun so this is sort of based on one of the missions but it’s all from memory so if anything is wrong or out of place just ignore it and lets call it canon divergence AO3 version here

“Fox, how copy?”

You grunted, clawing at the rain-soaked concrete and grit beneath your fingers as you stretched to reach your communications device. Your head was still spinning from the impact, and your eyes blurred as if you were lying underneath a moving river staring at the wrinkled water surface above. A high-pitched whine resonates in your ears, and you are intensely aware of the urge to vomit.

With a sharp breath, you are able to level yourself onto your knees. Your hand closed around the slippery radio, and you pulled it toward your mouth whilst collapsing your back against a slick brick wall. Your free hand pressed against the sharp, pulsating pain in your abdomen.

“(Y/N), I repeat, how copy?” Ghost’s voice crackled.

You swallowed the dryness in your throat, before pressing the voice activation button on the radio. The strong rush of adrenaline burned in your chest, but it didn’t match the wash of relief upon hearing and recognising Simon’s voice. You closed your eyes and relished in the sensation for a moment.

“I read you.”

He audibly sighed. “Thought I lost you there.”

“Nearly did.”

“You injured?”

You stared down and shakily inspected the palm pressed against your wound. Your fingers came away glistening with rain and blood, and your undershirt was soaked a deep red around the site of the injury. You replace your hand on the wound, applying as much pressure as you can muster with a heavily clenched jaw. As much as you wanted to be honest, you knew that due to the personal obligations Ghost felt toward you because of your secret relationship, letting him know just how hurt you truly were could compromise his position. He would, without a doubt, make his way straight toward you.

“I’m alive.”

“That’s not what I asked, Sergeant.”

“I’ll manage.”

“Good. Are you in sight of the church?”

You blinked hard to clear your vision and glanced around your surroundings. Through a rusted, paint-chipped iron gate, you could see the distant glow of the religious building and gathered that it was about half a mile away. You weren’t sure how much steam you had left in the tank, but you sure as shit were going to use every last drop to get your ass to that church.

“Yeah, I see it.”

“We’ll RV there. Johnny’s on his way now.”

“Copy that.”

“Do you have a weapon?”

You fumbled with your gear, cursing to yourself when you found nothing but empty holsters. All that remained on your person was a singular, small combat knife hidden within your boot, and you silently thanked yourself for taking such precaution.

“A knife.”

“That’s all you need. Stay safe, Fox.”

“Sure, Ghost.”

You released the radio trigger and clipped it back onto the front of your tactical vest. With a deep breath, you managed to pull yourself to your feet with the solid support of the brick wall. Your bloodied hand mixed with the rain, dripping down your chilled fingers and spreading the blood down your arms. You looked like a damn mess. You felt like a damn mess.

You first attempted to push through the iron gate but found it chained and padlocked from the other side.

Never the easy way, you murmured to yourself.

Turning back on yourself, you stumbled through a fruit market. Bruised and trampled limes and apples rolled across the puddled floor, seemingly abandoned in a hurry rather than packed away in their crates. Upon leaning on a stall for aid, you noticed that the civilians, presumably the shopkeepers, had been shot dead in their stalls. It was bloody and gruesome and told the tale of just how relentless the military-for-hire group were.

Your wobbly vision was clouded, and your lashes were thick with rain droplets concentrated with the blood dripping from your head. Your lips and fingers were icy cold, and each breath felt like the air was taking shots at your lungs like they were punching bags. You pressed onwards, however, knowing that if you wanted a chance at living that you needed to make it out of the Shadow’s web, and you could only do so by pushing yourself forwards.

The detour through the fruit market leads you to a couple of Shadow mercs, who chatted idly amongst themselves as if they weren’t standing upon the consequences of their war crimes. Families, including children, cried and screamed in the distance. Gunshots followed, and you tried not to flinch against the sound.

The mercenaries were armed, and they were blocking the only route you had. There was no easy way around this, but you had to improvise given your lack of weaponry and physical power. Your body was betraying you, and try as you might, you’d never be able to take these men in your current situation.

You tossed a beer bottle down the alleyway, hoping to distract them enough to get the upper hand. The left merc stubbed out his cigarette with a sizzle under his boot, before trailing down in the direction of the smashed glass in pursuit of the sound. Noticing your chance, you steadily crouch-walked your way over to the lone hostile and plunged your knife into his side and then into his neck.

“Just an empty bottle. It’s nothing,” the other merc stated, then turning on his heel with a final glance at the broken glass before he whipped his head around with a double take to notice his friend in a gargling heap on the floor, and you standing above him. “What the fuck?!”

He raised his gun toward you, leaving you no choice but to slam straight into him to throw off his aim. His gun flew upwards as he pulled the trigger, spraying an arc of loud, bright bullets into the air whilst you attempted to disarm him. He retaliated with a hard shove, though not before you were able to get your hands on the pistol in his hip holster. You flew to the ground with a thud and splash, but before he had the chance to regain composure and take aim at you again, you’d blasted two rounds into his chest, and then his throat. He collapsed on top of you in a heavy heap.

Another soldier rounded the corner, but you didn’t quite have the energy to recognise the threat before it was a second too late.

You were just lucky that Soap barged through the cafe door on your left and took him down with a clean shot straight through the temple. He turned his gaze from the man on the floor after confirming his death and reached over to you on the ground. He heaved the dead mercenary off of your chest and offered you a strong hand. You grabbed onto him and groaned as he yanked you upright, a firm hand on your shoulder to steady you as you fell towards him. With a concerned eye, he straightened you with a gentle nudge.

“Christ, Fox,” Soap murmured, eyeing the wound on your side. You immediately clutched at it defensively. “You’re not lookin’ so hot.”

You wheezed a breath and mustered a smile. “I’m running on fumes, but I’ll be fine. Let’s just get to that church.”

“Aye, Sergeant. I’ll take front.”

“Be my guest.”

You trailed sloppily behind Soap, cursing yourself for your inability to be as sharp as you usually were. You hated being a burden, but you hated letting the team down more. Your carelessness in the fight that broke out with Graves had cost you a life-threatening injury in a team that refused to leave anybody behind, even if it got them killed. You only worried that if you weren’t going to make it, you wouldn’t be able to see Simon before you went and that you wouldn’t be able to tell him you were sorry.

Your heart ached at the thought.

You and Ghost had been dating, briefly. It happened slowly. First, there were inside jokes, and then there were gentle teasing pet names, and then more than friendly touches… until one night the tension seemed to break, and you slept together, which was just a week ago now before everything went to shit. You almost regretted doing so, for fear that now you’d never get to see him again, to touch him again.

You stumbled to your knees and caught yourself barely by planting your hand solidly on the gravelled floor. Soap spun around and cursed under his breath before reaching for his radio.

“Ghost, we have a situation here.”

He leaned forward and grabbed at your biceps, throwing your arm over his soldier for support.

“What situation?”

“Fox was WIA,” he grunted with a low voice, pulling your body towards cover as a squadron of Shadows passed by in pursuit of the gunshots from only a few moments prior. Any second now, they would find the bodies and be alerted of your presence.

“Don’t piss around the bush, Johnny. How bad?”

Soap studied you with an uneasy glance.  “We’re gonna need backup if we’re gonna get the lass outta here.”

“What’s your location?”

“Uh—” Soap paused and checked for any noticeable landmarks. “We’re at the coffee shop just a ways from the fruit market—”

“Hang tight. I’m on my way.”

“What about the RV?”

“Stay put, Serg.”

“Yes, sir.”

The distance from the church to the market was about ten minutes, but Ghost cleared the distance in about four. His eyes were cold and steely behind his mask but became soft and expressive upon noticing your strained face and bloodied abdomen. He was gentle when he leaned for you.

“Jesus Christ, Fox,” he murmured, his tone an edge softer than usual. He leaned toward you to help stabilise you on your feet and apologised under his breath when you yelped in pain. “Who did this to you?”

You grunted and leaned against one of his large arms for support. You blinked the rainwater away from your eyes and maintained eye contact with him. Even now, at a time like this, you felt your stomach flip. You were so in love with him and that somehow made everything scarier.

“One of Graves’ boys. Not sure who. Didn’t get a good look before I killed him.” You answered.

“Atta girl,” Ghost praised. Your heart clenched.

Soap stared on with a worried look, his back tense with stress.

“Hold up,” Soap said, raising a fist before lifting his gun to level his eyes with the sights. mercenaries stormed past the windows, and there was a sudden series of heavy bangs on the cafe door that Soap had barricaded with bar stools. “We’ve got company, Ghost.”

Ghost nodded, and then turned to you with an urgent look in his eyes. “Can you walk?”

You cringed at the stabs of pain and clenched your jaw. “Simon, I’m a liability. Leave me here and I can hold them off—”

“I am not leaving you here!”

You blinked in shock at the intensity of his tone. His eyes beyond the mask seemed desperate, and he clutched your face in a gloved hand as if uttering his silent pleas through his palm. You truly believed him and his words, for there was no reason for a man like himself to lie to you at a time like this.

“I said, can you walk?”

You nodded stiffly.

“Then let’s fucking walk,” Ghost answered, tossing your arm over his shoulder to carry the most of your body weight as he essentially dragged you toward the exit point of the cafe. His other hand gripped his pistol so hard that his knuckles began to numb beneath his glove. “Cover us, Johnny!”

Soap tailed your backs with a raised gun, and Ghost was just able to tug you out of the door before the hostiles blasted through and started swarming the place with bullets. Ghost seemed to lug you along with desperation, as you were practically limping at this point.

“You stupid girl, getting me all worried like this,” he cursed, turning briefly to shoot one of the incoming adversaries before continuing onwards. “Do you know how lucky you are that I’m here?”

He was acting characteristically sharp and dry, but you knew that it was just to glaze over his worry. Ghost didn’t often lose his cool, but you were certainly shaking his faith. You couldn’t judge him for his words and simply offered a weak smile in response.

You heaved a laugh. “Let’s just say I owe you one.”

He seemed to soften. “Let me take you to dinner when this is all over. Call it even.”

“It’s a date,” you wheezed, your words accompanied by laboured breaths. The pain was intense and radiated in waves of white-hot pulses and aches that made you limp and shudder in the agony. Your feet and hands were starting to feel numb, and your head felt like it was full of TV static. You just needed a short break, and then you would be able to continue.

You began tripping over your feet, and albeit he tried to keep you upright, Ghost’s strength wasn’t enough to counter the sudden push of gravity as you slumped to the floor.

“(Y/N)!”

Your face was white, and your eyes rolled back. He was immediately at your side, grabbing your face in his hand to inspect your breathing, and then the pulse on your neck with fingers that he’d torn a glove from. He was momentarily relieved when he felt the feedback of your heart, regardless of how faint it was. It was enough to keep going, to revive the easily extinguishable flicker of hope.

Soap rounded the corner, seeming urgent as he fired shots down the alleyway.

“Ghost, they’re gaining on us!”

“Shit!” He cursed.

Without a second thought, he unsheathed his pistol and handed it over to Soap who took it without question. Simon scooped his arms under your legs and back and held you securely to his chest before nodding at his comrade.

“You keep us safe. That’s an order, Serg.”

“Sure, LT, but we need to get a move on— now.”

“Let’s go!”

You jostled in and out of consciousness. It was soft and gentle, like a slow beat of butterfly wings. You would open your eyes momentarily, but there wasn’t enough adrenaline supply in the world to keep you awake, and things would quickly return to darkness. Your grasp on reality started to slip when the blood loss became critical, and the only thing you were aware of was the bruising grip Ghost had on your flesh and the overwhelming fear that you were about to die.

You vaguely notice the sensation of cold marble on your body, and then the tightness of gauze and tape being wrapped around you.

Ghost was manic as he watched your pale, lifeless body show little to no reaction to his movements. He’d torn your battle vest off and inspected the damage beneath your vest. He’d swallowed his anxiety and wrapped you up as best he could with what little supplies himself and Soap had scrounged from the village and proceeded to perform CPR on you when he noticed your breathing had come to an abrupt stop.

Thud. Thud. Thud.

You couldn’t move.

Thud. Thud. Thud. Crack.

A blooming pain in your ribs.

A warm press of lips on your own, and the uncomfortable sensation of being filled with air.

Thud. Thud. Thud.

The thrum of helicopter blades. Distant shouting. Ghost’s voice.

Ghost’s voice.

“Simon…?”

——

When you next woke, it was a slow and unpleasant sensation. White, fluorescent lights pierced through your eyelids, which felt heavy to open. The sharp sensation of the gunshot in your side felt dull, and you could tell by the swimming sensation in your head that you were drugged. You vaguely recognised the sound of a beeping monitor, and you flinched. The smell of bleach filled your nose.

“Good mornin’, sunshine.”

Your eyes fluttered open, wincing against the harsh ceiling lights. You turned your gaze to the figure hunched over in a small brown chair— a heavily-built man, adorning a balaclava with a skull painted on it. Ghost.

“Simon.”

“(Y/N).”

You attempted to lift yourself into an upright position, and immediately felt a flare of agony that had you coughing out a broken sob.

“Hey, hey, take it easy there, Fox,” Ghost murmured, immediately reaching forwards to settle you back down. You grit your teeth together and blinked away the sudden onslaught of tears that were born from the shock of the pain. He tried to sit back down, but you caught his gloved hand before he could leave and he didn’t have the heart to pull away. His stature immediately softened, and his thumb smoothed over your fingers and knuckles in an attempt to comfort you.

“They outta put more drugs in you. They sure did a number on you. Surprised you’re still with us.”

“I thought I was going to die.”

Simon huffed through his nose and tugged the chair closer so that he could sit beside you and hold your cold hands in his. “I thought you were, too, sweetheart.”

“How the Hell did you get me out of there?”

You couldn’t see it, but by the wrinkle of his eyes, you knew he was smirking. “This old dog still got his ways.”

A concern suddenly popped into your head as bits and pieces of memories began to slot together. “And Soap?”

“He’s fine, unfortunately.”

You smiled gently, feeling yourself relax a little. You turned to him and held his gaze, suddenly feeling intimidated by his sharp eyes. The heart monitor next to your bed began to beep at an increased pace, and your cheeks flushed.

Ghost seemed bemused. “Am I makin’ you nervous, darlin’?”

You buried your face in your hands and only dared to peek through your fingers when you heard him start to laugh.

“Don’t hide from me just yet. You still owe me a date.”

You threw your hands down to your sides and smiled. “Look who’s gone all soft. I wonder what the boys would think of you right now.”

He rolled his eyes. “Don’t make me regret saving you.”

“Don’t kid yourself, LT, you loved playing hero,” you retorted, a glimmer of mischief sparkling through your grin. You suddenly felt the atmosphere become slightly tense and heavy with the weight and reality of the situation. You could’ve and likely should’ve died back there. You weren’t aware enough of your surroundings to remember just what Ghost and Soap went through to get you out, but you could only imagine.

“Thank you, Simon.” You said, more serious this time.

He glanced away as if embarrassed. “It’s nothing.”

You reached closer and grabbed his masked face. In private, he would remove his balaclava just for you. You felt the selfish desire that he would do so just now so that you could kiss him but swallowed your urges for you knew he couldn’t compromise himself in the med-bay. Too many prying eyes.

He grabbed your hand from his face and kissed it, the warmth and pressure of his lips still present even through the fabric on his face. You were butter in his touch, practically melting through his fingers.

“Just don’t make a habit of nearly dying, you hear me? Nearly gave me a bastard heart attack.”

You smiled, staring at him dazedly. “Yes, sir.”

[doodle-pops]

Better Than The Stars

Caranthir x reader

Request: Hi Mina! Can I request a one shot where Maedhros or Caranthir are married after being reincarnated and they're struggling with people opinions about their children (hair color, their patrents past, Fëanor...) meanwhile their wives don't care even more because they're noble and know about their society (plus Nerdandel Is supporting). However lots of fluff and family actitude 🩷 thank you!!!! - @foreverandadaydarling

A/N: A pleasure to create this piece on your behalf dear. Enjoy!

Warnings: female reader, angst, comfort/happiness, reborn!Caranthir, arguments, Caranthir wanting to separate

Words: 2k

Synopsis: There were days when even the great son of Feanor required reassurance that your choice to be a family was genuine and not out of guilt.

Pulling the blanket over your shoulders, you stood in the doorway, watching your husband tediously slave away, attempting to garden. A chore that once came easily during his youthful and glorious years of peace was now foreign and laborious. You would have been fine with assisting him, but quick he was to assure you that you shouldn’t be the only one labouring around the household. Your response? A simple smile and a pat on his shoulders before leaving him to his own devices.

It was now spring, and Arien’s rays were barely peeking through the clouds to relieve the winter coldness. What little crop you two managed to save during the previous seasons was now getting the opportunity to grow. Winter was harsh for you two since you no longer lived in the comfort of your parent’s homes or the lavish life you once did in Thargelion. Returning to Valinor, branded as outcasts or the darkened ones, most of your family turned blind eyes to many of the returned—as did the former servants of his house. Most were quick to beg for forgiveness and repent their rebellion towards the Valar and were easily forgiven; however, their compromise was to never serve under their house again.

You, along with a few of their spouses, openly chose to remain at their sides after their rebirth, believing that if they were given a second chance at life, then there was still good left in them. Unfortunately, your choice of dwelling with him left a stain on his heart when he realised the life you would have to live with him—giving up the lavish treatment you once had.

“Ease up on the hoe—the handle already has a crack, arimelda.” Halting his swing mid-air, he turned to gaze at you with soft eyes, but behind them, you saw the distant look of regret.

Yes, he regretted you being dragged along with him in a swirl of chaos and destruction. He promised you the world when you both wedded and instead, he brought death, pain, and heartbreak. Though you knew the true reason behind his actions, hence the force being placed on the handle with each swing the tool made with the earth.

His children.

Your two daughters became the newest victims of the backlash the House of Feanor faced. A brief excursion into Tirion’s market yesterday left them scurrying back home with tears streaming down their ruddy cheeks, a precious trademark that made them all the more magnificent in their father’s eyes. Keeping the incident a secret from him all day yesterday to maintain peace was broken this morning upon mindless eavesdropping as his girls hush-hushed the harsh words. His first instinct was to fly into Tirion and have his daughters pinpoint the individuals before giving them a good old-fashioned taste of his mind, the classic Moryo style.

Had it not been for his daughters' pleas alongside yours, the House of Feanor would have left another mark on their reputation.

Sharply exhaling and relaxing the flare of his nostrils, he gave a pained smile. “Ah, sorry, I didn’t notice. I’ll fix it when I’m finished.” And yet, his smile didn’t reach his eyes as it once did.

“No need, just go easy on it.”

Offering him a genuine smile, one that reached your eyes, he dropped the hoe.

He still couldn’t understand, to this day, how you could be happy amidst the life he had you living. You deserved the riches he bestowed upon you in Thargelion. Whatever you wished for, he would have been able to grant—be it the largest diamond, a platter of fruits, or the finest material for your clothes. Not this broken life of struggling to bring in a good harvest or being cursed at when you went into town for produce and meat. Even the relationships with a few of his brothers felt strained, the harsh, cold, blank stares you would give them whenever they visited.

You still hated them for persuading him to retrieve the Silmaril, even though you knew he had no choice. You just wished it had come at a later date so more time could have been spent. At least his mother did her best to reach out and act as a guidance counsellor when she could. Her words were harsh at times, despite the honesty behind them and bias towards her sons, giving recognition to her wisdom. But not once had she persuaded any of her daughters-in-law to leave her sons. That was the sole decision she left you ladies to make; your choices were your consequences.

Frowning, deep in thought, he parted his lips to argue. “Why—”

“Don’t, because I will give you the same answer as I always do. I just want to be with you. I’m happy with you,” you reminded with a single huff.

Returning a breathy laughter, wanting nothing more than to scream and yell at the now nonchalant and lackadaisical you were treating the crisis, he curled his fists into his trousers. “Really? Is that the life you genuinely want with me when we have children? If it were you and I, then I would be less inclined to leave, but we have a family who have now become victims! And for what?! Looking like me and coming from this accursed family! This is not the life I want for them and you!”

“Then you would prefer us packing up and departing after expressing your gratefulness upon your rebirth that we stayed?!” you snapped, lowering your tone to prevent your girls from picking up that their parents were arguing.

“Yes! Yes, I would have preferred that instead of having to listen to the vile comments targeted at my children and you!” He shook his head and turned to gaze at the dirt ground. Standing in the troughs he had dug, he felt insignificant for the first time in his life. He felt lost as if his purpose had been stolen from him.

Maybe if I covered myself with dirt and grew, I might be able to start over again? I’d be able to regain a purpose in life.

“Do you genuinely believe I would leave you so easily? Have I not walked through fire and gotten burned to prove my loyalty? Is that not what this family is all about? Do you honestly want to chase us away because of naysayers? I’ve said it time and time again, I don’t care about other’s opinions of us. What happened to the Morifinwë who didn’t care about other’s opinions?”

“He died long ago and has no intentions of returning now that he has children!” He allowed himself to stand there in the dirt and lifted his head to gaze at the overcast above. “You could return to your family, taking our daughters with you, and atone for your actions. You all would not have to struggle or be hated—everyone would adore you all, a life of luxuries and opportunities. You were never hated, always loved, so why do you still stay when the situation shows no sign of bettering?”

If the Arien was out, I’d be able to sprout properly. But even she would not wish to cast her rays upon a person like me—they were too beautiful to be wasted.

Tugging the blanket tighter around your body as a brisk cold wind blew through the garden, you shivered. Listening to the branches quake and shiver from the intensity of the violent wind, you could observe and ponder how long your actions had troubled his mind. He didn’t drop his head from the sky; he kept it facing upwards and left his hands curled into fists at his sides, controlling his temper. Opening his mouth to respond, he quickly snapped it shut, unable to provide an appropriate counter.

It was something he had done less and less since his rebirth. It was the most eerie change in his persona. Gone was the easily angered Caranthir, replaced by a mellowed and soft-spoken person. Still, he’d grind his teeth or grumble under his breath at the hate, but always bit his tongue because he knew it was the truth and there was no point in fighting it. Yet, there was anger behind your decision to remain at his side. You could have left him, never to be heard of again, and lived in a peaceful paradise.

“Because we would not have been at peace if you were not around. To hear our children ask for their father, why wasn’t he coming around or if he didn’t love them anymore are questions I would like to avoid. I want our girls to grow up knowing and seeing you in a different light compared to how others perceive you.” Your voice was soft and considerate, and his tensive posture was relaxed when it reached his ears. “I want them to know that their father was kind and loving, and someone who made an effort.”

Relaxing his fingers from their tight grip, he wiggled them around to alleviate the ache. Lowering his head to your level, he turned to confront you. His forest green eyes pierced into yours, seeking warmth and honesty behind your words. And you allowed him to—there was nothing to conceal. He deserved to witness the truth for himself.

“I want peace and I also want happiness Caranthir. Do you remember our vows, happiness and sows, for better or worse, through the good times and bad? I chose you from the start and I will continue to choose you until the end of time—we will stand with you until the end of time.” Walking out the doorway, you stepped barefoot onto the dirt. Grimacing because of the coldness of the earth seeping through your pores, you continued to walk until you stood before him.

Extending your hand, you tenderly grasped his freckled one and raised it until it met your lips. Returning a smile to him, of which he was unaware, you kissed the back of his hand before reaching your other hand to encircle his waist. Despite the stern and unyielding expression on his face, your actions were the exception that broke the ice, causing him to blush slightly. This was one occasion when he could not deny being captivated by your gesture.

Raising your head to meet his gaze, you captured the longing, desperate reassurance in his stare.

“Sometimes I wonder who is the more stubborn of the two of us.”

“I have never been happier Moryo; you make me the happiest person in the world.” Saying this, you took his hand encased by yours and rubbed it against your cheek before repeating the gesture upon his ruddy cheeks. “Your daughters love and want you in their lives; don’t push us away.”

“Even in this state of living when I can no longer provide the best?”

“You always give us your best.” At the whisper of your words, a warm wind blew through the gardens and wrapped its cool arms around you both, pushing you into one another. Within that moment, two extra pairs of footsteps were heard rushing out the backdoor. Lo and behold, the sight of two miniature versions of both of you came scampering out of the house to rush for a group hug. Never one for missing out on family hugs whenever they saw you both embracing.

The moment they ran out of the house giggling was the moment a flutter of warmth flowed into his heart as he gazed at his two loving children clinging to you both. Their short arms struggling to encircle your bodies as they squeezed your waists tightly added appreciation to the warmth. Arien’s rays took the most opportune moment to shine her light upon you both, encasing you in a swirl of golden light. A light finally shone upon you both, maybe a sign of acceptance or prosperity, or both.

Laughing at the action, Caranthir could not help but gaze lovingly at them, giving their heads small pats and then at you—finally, he was seeing the honesty and beauty behind your words in your eyes. Choosing him wasn’t out of sympathy or shame, it was all love and contentment.

“Then I will continue to give you all my best meldanya…for staying at my side.”

“You are all that I need.” Pulling him closer, you rubbed his nose against yours and gently pecked his lips before grinning at his blushing face.

“Can I have a kiss too atya?”

“Me too, I want a kiss please!”

With a smile emanating from the depths of his heart, Caranthir gazed at his girls tip-toeing with their lips puckered for their kisses and chuckled. Some things truly never change.

Top of Form

“Alright, line up for your kisses!”

Masterlist

Taglist: @lilmelily @ranhanabi777 @rain-on-my-umbrella @mysticmoomin @asianbutnotjapanese @sakurayaxd @batsyforyou @involuntaryspasms @ladyenchanted @hermaeuswhora @aconstructofamind @stormchaser819 @addaigio @lamemaster

[zwoelffarben]

Not derailing this post which is having a very serious conversation about sex, sexnormativity, and such. There's a quote I want to talk about in that @curlicuecal in the conversation says and relate it to the culture surrounding the adoption of new media:

...if you spend some time talking to people with different experiences or learning about even one culture other than your own ... It just opens your eyes to perspectives and options you never even knew existed. And suddenly you have more colors to paint with.

I believe that the major success of homestuck and (unfortunately) harry potter as well as the major failure of Jame Cameron's Avatar, and minor failure of most YA dytopia novels wit harry potter houses correlate to this New Colors Principle: If you give people new colors to paint wit, they will paint with them.

let's skip over homestuck (we'll get back to it) and (unfortunately) talk about harry potter for a moment. The four houses are arguably the biggest part of potterhead culture, and that's more than just marketing. A lot of words have been written on how the houses function in canon, forming the basis for a bad positive feedback loop that ultimately radicalizes snape, voldemort, and other syltherins to bibotry; as well as other problems with their in canon implimentations. But, the thing that made harry potter so fucking popular, aside from the factors of success largely unrelated to the book itself, was that it gave people some fancy new astrology signs by way of the hogwarts houses. They were new colors to paint with, and its unfortunately what makes it so fucking difficult to kill too, because people don't want to lose access to those colors they found meaning in (I still internally identify wit a house, cringing as I do, because I painted myself with that color, and cutting that part of myself away, despite my acceptance of its necessity is a hard and painful process I'm probably never gonna completely manage.)

By contrast, the failure of James Cameron's Avatar to form a cultural splash is because He doesn't spend enough time really rexploring the blue people's culture in a way that's understandable to a human audience. A lot of the blue people's culture exists only as either a plot device or the mystical native trope, which kinda betrays his opinions on the real-life indiginous peoples his blue people are coded as. He had the opprotunity to create some truly fascinating colors, and had he done so by cooperating with the native people he believes are a "dead end society", and all he made was puce blue.

And now back to the other end of the spectrum, to quote myself, "Homestuck is a now concluded long running web comic series written by Andrew Hussie centering around the paradox inducing shenanagains of ten humans, twenty-four trolls, a number of cerebum, and several other species; as they all quest both for personal growth and to herald the birth of a new cosmic frog multiverse which the surviviors of the narative can settle into: It’s a glorious mess." That quote comes from an essay in which I use huusian troll romance to analysize the romantic-sexual attraction of a character from a completely unrelated media.

The popularity of homestuck stems, I argue here in part, from the absolutely unhinged pallette of new colors it created. You've got astrology^2 in the classpects; you've got the trolls with their lexusi, blood heirarchy, and romance quadrants; the leprechaun have their charms (which is itself taking the piss out of troll romance quadrants), the dichotomy of the prospit and derse dreaming, the cherbum, all the various ways to conceptualize the self brought about by shenanagains in paradox spacetime. Homestuck offers some 40+ new colors to fuck around painting wit, and cringe though the execution might have sometimes been, people did enfact fuck around and paint wit 'em.

People love having new colors to play with, and culture is driven by the desire to paint, but also to discover new colors to paint with. What an excellent metaphor, that I should note was made by a person who, at time of writing, has a homestuck icon.

[vipu14]

Maximize Digital Presence: Essential Digital Marketing Strategies for 2024

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential for businesses looking to maximize their digital presence. As we move into 2024, several digital marketing strategies stand out as crucial for achieving success. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential digital marketing strategies for the year ahead.

1. Leverage AI and Automation

Personalized Customer Experiences

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation tools have revolutionized how businesses interact with customers. By utilizing AI-driven analytics, you can gain deeper insights into customer behavior, allowing for highly personalized marketing campaigns. Chatbots, personalized email marketing, and predictive analytics can enhance user experience and drive conversions.

Efficiency in Campaign Management

Automation tools can streamline your marketing efforts, from scheduling social media posts to managing email campaigns. This not only saves time but also ensures that your marketing activities are consistent and timely.

2. Focus on Content Quality and Relevance

High-Value Content Creation

Content remains king in 2024, but the focus is on quality and relevance. Create high-value content that addresses your audience’s pain points and provides actionable insights. This includes blog posts, whitepapers, videos, and infographics.

SEO Optimization

Search engine optimization (SEO) is critical for visibility. Ensure your content is optimized for search engines by using relevant keywords, creating engaging meta descriptions, and utilizing internal and external links. Voice search optimization is also becoming increasingly important as more users rely on voice-activated devices.

3. Harness the Power of Social Media

Platform-Specific Strategies

Different social media platforms cater to different demographics and user behaviors. Develop platform-specific strategies to maximize engagement. For instance, use Instagram for visual storytelling, LinkedIn for professional content, and TikTok for short, engaging videos.

Social Commerce

Social commerce is on the rise, with platforms like Instagram and Facebook offering in-app shopping experiences. Leverage these features to provide seamless shopping experiences directly within social media platforms, boosting sales and customer satisfaction.

4. Invest in Video Marketing

Short-Form and Live Videos

Short-form videos and live streaming continue to dominate the digital space. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are perfect for creating engaging, bite-sized content. Live videos offer real-time interaction with your audience, fostering a sense of community and trust.

Educational and Explainer Videos

Videos that educate or explain complex concepts can position your brand as an authority in your industry. Create tutorials, product demonstrations, and behind-the-scenes content to engage and inform your audience.

5. Embrace Omnichannel Marketing

Consistent Messaging Across Channels

Omnichannel marketing ensures that your customers have a seamless experience across all digital and physical channels. Consistent messaging and cohesive brand experiences across websites, social media, email, and in-store interactions can significantly enhance customer loyalty.

Integrated Customer Data

Integrate customer data from various touchpoints to create a unified view of the customer journey. This helps in delivering personalized experiences and improving overall customer satisfaction.

6. Prioritize Data Privacy and Security

Transparency and Trust

With increasing concerns about data privacy, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency and build trust with your audience. Clearly communicate your data policies and ensure that customer data is protected.

Compliance with Regulations

Stay updated with data protection regulations such as GDPR and CCPA. Ensure your marketing practices comply with these regulations to avoid legal issues and build credibility with your audience.

Conclusion

As digital marketing continues to evolve, staying ahead requires a strategic approach and a willingness to adapt to new trends and technologies. By leveraging AI and automation, focusing on content quality, harnessing social media, investing in video marketing, embracing omnichannel strategies, and prioritizing data privacy, you can maximize your digital presence in 2024 and beyond. Stay proactive, stay informed, and watch your digital marketing efforts thrive in the coming year.

[behindthewox]

Excuse me, where's the marketing department?

To my knowledge there isn't one. And it shows.

It doesn't make sense to me that each site manages their own social media and marketing, without any resources or support, just left to their own devices to do the best they can with what they've got. Social media is tricky and in order to succeed, you need certain skills and assets. And you need resources. You need to be able to run paid ads a couple of times a year to steadily increase your audience and you need to know what sort of content works best for the target audience. You need to know where you are most likely to find that audience.

What would make far more sense is to create a cross-site workgroup to work with social media and marketing. A group with shared resources and exchange of assets, skills and experience. It could be invaluable, and if you can make it work it's a relatively small investment compared to the potential gain. Appearances is everything and first impression is key, so ads and social media has to be done right. The more resources you have, the higher chance you'll have to succeed and even then it's difficult to make yourself seen and heard in the endless ocean of social media.

If the marketing strategy remains what it is today (calling it a marketing strategy is a bit of a stretch in my opinion), most WoX sites are doomed to fail. Without new users coming in on a regular basis the sites die down, as we've seen in the last year. There are several WoX sites on the brink of failing, in desperate need of new users with new enthusiasm, that won't get paid ads this year because they don't have enough users and activity on their sites. WoX sites that are failing due to lack of marketing are denied marketing because they're failing due to lack of users, due to lack of marketing. Does anyone else see the problem with that?

It might be too late for the sites that are already failing. They need to have enough people and resources to handle the sudden influx of hundreds of new users and give an impression of an active site so that enough newcomers stay around and become long-term users. If you don't have that it's incredibly hard to get back on your feet; you can fight until there's no fight left in you and chances are you'll still lose. I've been there and it sucked, it's a slow and painful end and worst of all: it could probably have been prevented.

If there had been regular paid ads reaching new audiences and bringing in new users on a regular basis the sites that are failing now, or has failed in the last year, might not have reached the failing point in the first place.

If there is a marketing strategy for WoX, it's not working. That needs to change.

[cvlavelle]

From Failure to Fortune: Embracing Imperfection on the Entrepreneurial Journey

Entrepreneurial Journey

“Embrace Uncertainty, for within its depths lie the Seeds of Innovation.”

In entrepreneurship, entrepreneurs tend to target the point of pain of their customer segment. The customer’s pain represents a specific challenge, obstacle, or discomfort experienced that entrepreneurs are actively seeking to alleviate. Identifying these pain points is crucial for developing products or services.

Expanding on this concept, understanding the pain points of individuals within the community entails thoroughly examining their needs, frustrations, and areas of dissatisfaction. This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, or observations to gain insights into students, faculty, and staff's daily challenges. By pinpointing these pain points, entrepreneurs can tailor their innovations to meet the specific needs of the campus population, thereby enhancing the value proposition of the start-up and increasing the likelihood of success.

Hypothesis Definition

Before starting the out-of-classroom interview, we, as students and young entrepreneurs, made initial hypotheses regarding the population’s problems at our university, Central Mindanao University (CMU). We hypothesize that students, faculty, and other CMU stakeholders are experiencing waste management problems, specifically in properly disposing of waste, especially regarding how waste is collected and where the collected waste would be taken. There is also a problem with poor ventilation within some college buildings. Due to this, some students experience discomfort with the temperature of some rooms in different colleges. There are also issues with the signal quality of specific areas where students find it challenging to submit their requirements or research helpful articles. However, before brainstorming more ideas, we tested our hypothesis on whether or not people at CMU experienced the problems we initially recorded.

The group initiated this because an idea that will not solve the problem of its target market will ultimately fail. Every idea has its place, and knowing which idea to pursue during certain circumstances will determine the success of a venture project. We wanted to know precisely what problems we could use to create the start-up.

Hypothesis Testing

To test the initial hypotheses: 1. We politely approached 50 students to interview them face-to-face using a semi-structured interview with preset questions, allowing follow-up questions for a deeper discussion on a problem/issue.

2. The group agreed with the respondents about whether they would allow us to take photo documentation. As the interviewers, we have asked them open-ended questions such as: a. What are the problems that you have encountered here at CMU? b. What are the inconveniences that you have experienced? c. What solutions do you think would solve your problems?

3. The results of the hypothesis testing were positive. Although some of the problems in the hypothesis were not mentioned, a few issues hypothesized were present in the respondents' responses. The results of the interview are as follows: a. The students are experiencing issues with the signal quality at specific areas or colleges on campus. b. There is a lack of proper waste management and implementation of handling garbage. c. Being late in attending classes due to the distance between colleges and the lack of an efficient transport system d. Information and announcements are often delayed due to unavoidable circumstances, such as signal strength and quality issues, device availability (due to integration with modern methods of information dissemination), etc.

Interviewee’s Response Narrative: Brief Summary

It was a fine and quiet day, a bustling university with students and staff walking past each other, minding their business. It was the day that we had prepared for all the mental preparations to interview people we had yet to meet. We politely introduced ourselves upon approaching every potential respondent and announced our intention to ask them a few questions. Although a lot of people declined our request, we were able to meet the goal of collecting the responses of 50 interviewees.

During the interview, we casually chatted with our respondents to ease the tension and make them feel comfortable sharing their opinions. Although some permitted us to take photos for documentation, they requested not to reveal their identities (names). Our group agreed to these terms to allow the student to share his opinions without fearing exposure.

Of all the people we have approached, the 50 respondents have given us substantial responses. Of all the responses gathered, our results were somewhat similar to our hypothesis or initial expectations. According to the respondents, the problems that they have encountered at Central Mindanao University include the following: waste management, handling, and disposal, poor signal strength and quality, problems with schedule and distance between colleges, and lastly, delays in information dissemination.

Upon receiving these responses, we also asked our respondents about their proposed solutions to their problems. The majority of them have offered the basic solutions to their problems. It is then the role of our group to innovate and develop a start-up based on the proposed solutions of the target market. This discussion is further explained in the team’s decision and options.

Team Decision

According to the interview results, the team has concluded to develop an information system that would benefit students with technological devices. The initial plan for the start-up would be to create an app that would cater to the needs of the students, such as:

Gamifying or creating a game that will entertain students as they practice solid waste management and handling solid waste disposal (i.e., rewarding students for their positive performance)

Faster and more efficient medium/platform for information dissemination

Securing data and information from people who are not associated with the university

Integrating a public transport (Motorola, sikad, and habal-habal) system that would allow for faster and quicker travel time

Information board for an “all-in-one guide” to the restaurants, cafés, shops, etc., and the products or services that they are offering

Investment hub for student entrepreneurs and potential investors

Team’s Option

Given the problems presented by the interview results, the group had three options for which venture project proposal. We have skipped the first solution: to build signal towers or repeaters at specific locations to extend the signal reach and potentially improve signal strength and quality. The group denied this option because it was not a new venture, given that it was already a developed technology and the university itself could address it.

Another option that the group encountered was converting trash into energy and distributing energy to the residents of CMU. This was a good idea but ultimately not a profitable one. The group analyzed the feasibility of this idea and considered that it would also be denied. Despite being a good investment in terms of environmental benefits, the technology for converting trash into energy requires a relatively large area and a considerable amount of machine maintenance. Not to mention, it would also need human resources and sufficient funding for their respective salaries. Ultimately, it would not be a profitable investment if students with little knowledge and experience in managing that massive start-up would pursue this venture.

The last option we settled on was developing an information system (e.g., an app or website) to provide students with up-to-date information. The group initially chose this option because it was the most feasible and profitable. The group's current skills and knowledge also align with this venture, so the group continued to pursue this venture project.

Lessons Learned (Team)

Reflecting on this interview, it's clear that recognizing problems and understanding their underlying causes are essential steps in finding practical solutions. This process highlights the importance of proactive problem-solving and well-informed decision-making in driving positive change. By actively seeking answers and delving into the nuances of each issue, we not only address surface-level symptoms but also tackle the root cause, leading to more impactful and sustainable solutions. This interview emphasizes the value of approaching challenges with curiosity and a willingness to explore all angles, ultimately empowering us to make informed decisions that drive meaningful progress.

Moreover, the interview serves as a reminder of the transformative power of problem-solving skills in both personal and professional contexts. Whether navigating complex projects at work or addressing challenges in our personal lives, the ability to identify problems, analyze them critically, and develop tailored solutions is invaluable. By embracing a proactive problem-solving mindset, we equip ourselves with the tools to overcome obstacles and create positive change in our lives and communities.

Reflecting on my entrepreneurial journey, I've realized the importance of humility and collaboration in achieving success. Seeking guidance from others and embracing a community-oriented approach underscore the collaborative nature of entrepreneurship, highlighting the significance of collective effort and support in achieving our goals. The interviews and constructive criticism I've received have fueled my determination and renewed my purpose in pursuing entrepreneurship. I'm inspired by the relentless curiosity and drive successful entrepreneurs exhibit, motivating me to challenge the status quo and explore new opportunities for growth and development.

Acknowledging that entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges and setbacks has been a sobering yet empowering realization. Each obstacle presents an opportunity for learning and personal growth, reinforcing that failure is not the end but a stepping stone toward more significant achievement.

Documentation Due to the right of each responder to their privacy and by exercising such rights, we have excluded individuals who have opted for their photos, audio, or videos to be removed from the blog article. This documentation includes the photo of the group's hypothesis testing.

[leaderoffestivals]

Antique Legends: Epilogue 3

Madara: … … Well, that’s that, then.

Good night, goodbye——Producer-san.

Season: Autumn  Author: Akira Characters: Madara, Mika, Kohaku

Madara: Ahaha~! I'm sooo sorry, Kohaku-san! I tried waylaying him as he was leaving, but I guess it isn’t surprising that his guard was up, so he managed to get awayyy!

It’s such an awful shame! I’ll regret this mistake for life!

Kohaku: Hmph. I told ya we should’ve taken care of him before goin’ up to perform on stage.

Madara: Yep! However, it seems our performance at the Antique Market was incredibly well-received yesterday—

—which led to a larger than expected audience showing up here today as well. It felt like all of them were eagerly waiting for us to appear on stage!

Whether we’re ‘allies of justice’ or idols; We have no choice but to live up to those expectations!

Kohaku: Ko ko ko ♪ It won't matter which of those two we claim to be, we would seriously be cursed to Hell and back fer it, wouldn’t we? 

If ya compare us to those who’re honestly and earnestly pursuing their ideals, we're really just cheap knockoffs no matter how hard we try, right?

Madara: Yes. However, there are surely some ‘functions’ which only such vile existences like us can fulfill… …

It’s like how no one would use the pages from a priceless encyclopaedia to dry wet shoes, riiight? 

Kohaku: Geez! Quit tryin’ so hard to come up with clever expressions. Don’t we have a target to track down now? 

Errr… Let’s see. That would be the guy who disappeared backstage just now, right?

Madara: Yep! That guy’s wayyy speedier than I thought he would be, but still, I won’t ever lose when it comes to games of tag! I am the former Captain of the Track and Field Team after all! 

Stop, stay right there, you scoundrel! You’ll reap what you sow! 

Mika: Errr… … What in the world is goin’ on here? 

Kohaku: It would really better fer ya to keep yer nose out of it… … but I guess that’s already impossible fer you, huh? Mika-han is already involved in this, after all. 

To tell ya the truth, no sooner had we finished workin’ our butts off yesterday, that we received a new assignment fer today. To be precise, you could say we received fresh confirmation of our real target this time. 

Right now, we’re gonna eliminate the scoundrel schemin’ to bring down COSPRO. We’ve managed to identify him, thanks to the series of events surroundin’ that Antique Market. 

Madara: Fufu~n! That’s right! And although this target is especially talented at covering his tracks and hiding, we’ve finally managed to grab him by the tail this time!

Kohaku: Exactly. At the Antique Market yesterday, Hidaka Seiya———han…, he presented a ‘treasure’ to the victorious Valkyrie, didn’t he? 

That treasure turned out to be an extremely precious jewel.

If we were just to research a little, we can find out where that jewel is, right away. It’s just that conspicuous, ya see, just like an idol, or a star sparkling brightly in the sky.  

Mika: That jewel… … I gave that to the person who consolidated all my debts as a kind of collateral just now, though!

Vice-Prez instructed me to do that, just last night!

Kohaku: Yep. We’re real sorry fer keepin’ Mika-han in the dark about it, but the truth is, we went and installed a listening device in that piece of jewellery. 

We used that to gather information and got hard evidence of the wrongdoings bein’ committed. 

That person who helped ya consolidate yer debt? He was the one who hired fraudsters to run the con which caused Mika-han’s orphanage—yer home—so much pain and sufferin’.

In other words, Ibara-han managed to get hold of evidence which can be used to prove that guy was the real mastermind behind the attacks on Valkyrie and COSPRO. 

To top it off, that scoundrel went and bragged about all his other wrong-doings while he was holdin’ onto the jewel.

All that was recorded by the bug too. We’re gonna make sure he feels the pain fer what he’s done. 

Mika: EeEEEH~... … There’s really no need fer you to go that far, y’know? I’ve already paid the debt back in full, so there ain’t any issue with him anymore. I’m fine with callin’ it quits between us now. 

Kohaku: Yeah, no. If that were enough to make all things right; we’d all be livin’ in a peaceful world by now. However, his kind will never stop houndin’ their prey till it's dead with its blood sucked dry.  

That guy’s true goal ain’t about money; it’s about attackin’ COSPRO and the other agencies. There’s no way a guy like that would leave us alone feelin’ satisfied, just because you’ve paid him. 

This is a war, and it won’t end until one side is annihilated. 

Our target’s just a small-time crook this time, so we won’t go so far as to take his life yet, but— 

—we’ve heard he’s also been causin’ NEWDI grief by orchestratin’ various incidents to happen at all the idol trainin’ facilities affiliated with the agency.  

It turns out he’s part of the reason why NEWDI has been struggling so much with its business management.

And it’s not just COSPRO or NEWDI as individual agencies that he’s havin’ beef with—rather, we should say his hostility is targeted towards ES as a whole. 

That’s why we’re gonna crush him. Both COSPRO and NEWDI are my bosses after all—since he’s lookin’ to start a fight with us, we’ll have very reason to strike back. 

I know how it sounds when we say it like that, but this ain’t a bad thing fer Mika-han at all. After we take care of that fella, Mika-han won’t have a debt to repay anymore. 

You can use all the money you save on all those kids who admire and aspire to be like ya. 

That’s a much nobler cause to use such a sum of money fer, rather than letting some scoundrel use it to line his own pockets, right? 

Mika: … … … …

But why, Kohaku-kun? … … Why’re you doin’ those kinda unspeakable things? I understand, I get mad at swindlers and all those bad people too, but—

—it ain’t any part of any idol’s job to be punishin’ those people like that. … … I ain’t wrong in sayin’ that, right? 

Kohaku: Nope. Mika-han’s way of thinking is in the right. Idols should be a special breed of people surrounded by normal mothers, fathers, and kids with sparklin’ eyes earnestly askin’ fer autographs to be signed——However, we… … we’re just not that kind of people at all.

There’s a part of reality in this world which can’t be put right just by spoutin’ pretty words and ideals at it. Someone has to get their hands dirty to fix it—

—and that ‘someone’ just so happens to be us.

Of course, we do get some benefits fer doin’ these deeds too. 

Crazy:B created a whole lotta trouble in the summer fer ES—and fer all the idols in ES... ... Doin’ this helps to make up fer some of the damage we caused—

—and as long as we’re useful like this, we won’t be forcefully put down. 

… … I’ve got no idea how Niki-han thinks, but at the very least, Rinne-han and HiMERU-han’ll be able to continue doin’ the idol activities they love so much.  

As fer me, I’m satisfied with bein’ able to do this much. That’s all I need fer now.

Mika: Is that really—really—enough fer you, Kohaku-kun? 

Kohaku: … … … …

Madara: OI~III, Kohaku-saaan~? You were scolding me for my failings earlier, but aren't you just slacking around and chit-chatting with your friend now too~?

That’s fine, I don’t mind. I’ve always thought you’re more suited to ‘the world on that side’ anyway. … … You can leave everything from this point onwards to me and start making your way back now.

Kohaku: Seriously? Don’t be an idiot. It doesn’t matter how big and strong you are, there’s no way you’ll ever be able to beat everyone on yer own. 

Besides, from the moment I was born into my family, I’ve already been thoroughly stained with stinkin’ filth. 

Even if I were to go back and try to live under the light of the Sun now, everyone would just pinch their noses shut and turn their eyes away from me. 

Kohaku: Since that’s the case, I’d rather see how far I can walk along this path with you—you, who is covered in the same stink as I am.

Madara: Is that so? Without wasting words, I’m ending ‘this’ now. 

Madara: … … And that goes for you too, Anzu-san. What are you even doing here? Why did you insist on coming to this place, even though you know you don’t belong here at all? 

Can it be you still believe me to be your kind, gentle ‘childhood friend and older brother’? That, I’m someone, whom by nature, is incapable of doing anything criminally or morally wrong? 

Do you really think I am here, in such a place as dark as this, because there must be some kind of mistake? 

No, Anzu-san. That’s not it at all. You’re sooo wrong in assuming so——

I don’t have the time to explain everything in detail to you right now because I’ve got a pitiful villain to catch—

—however, everything about the person you believed me to be—that was all a lie. I am not a human worthy of your respect at all.

Madara: And that’s why... you shouldn’t care about me anymore. Don’t come here. The night is getting late, you should go. 

You have work tomorrow, don’t you? Even the Sun has gone to sleep; you should go home too, and get a good night’s rest.

Madara: … … Well, that’s that, then

Good night, goodbye——Producer-san.

---------------------------------------------------

The End

Translator’s Note: 

For those who are new to the game, there is a rule where the idols are supposed to refer to Anzu as Producer (from Madara’s first idol story) even though very few actually do. Madara actually stated that he would never call Anzu as Producer ever, because of his childhood friend relationship with her. That he would actually call her Producer at the end, further distancing the relationship with her, is really a very big gut punch.

Please read Myriad of Colours Chapter 5  / As An Elder / Hidden Beast 1/2 chapter / Blackjack Ch 14 / Secret Service for nuggets of what happened to Madara after this. 

This is unproofed, so if you have any feedback, please DM me.