#Security Exchange Development Services
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nadcablabs9616 · 1 year ago
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Nadcab Labs — Setting New Standards in Security Token Exchange Development
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In the rapidly evolving digital finance landscape, the emergence of security tokens has been a game-changer. These tokens, backed by real-world assets, offer a bridge between traditional finance and the blockchain world, leading to a surge in demand for platforms that can reliably manage and exchange these digital assets. At the forefront of this innovation is Nadcab Labs, a distinguished STO Development Company that specializes in creating secure, user-friendly security token exchange platforms. This article delves into the unique aspects of their service offerings and the pivotal role they play in the digital finance ecosystem.
Nadcab Labs has positioned itself as a leader in the Security Token Exchange Development sector by prioritizing security and usability. Recognizing the critical importance of asset safety in digital transactions, the company has engineered a platform with a four-layer security strategy. This sophisticated approach ensures that every phase of the asset exchange process is fortified against potential cyber threats. The layers include separated server environments, encrypted user access protocols, two-factor authentication, and secure offline VPN transmissions, creating a robust defense mechanism that shields users’ assets from unauthorized access and cyber-attacks.
In addition to these security measures, Nadcab Labs platform is equipped with advanced protection features such as DDoS protection, X-XSS-Protection, HTTP Public Key Pinning, and a Content Security Policy (CSP). These technologies work in tandem to provide a comprehensive security framework that mitigates the risk of cyber threats, ensuring that users’ investments are safeguarded against a wide array of digital vulnerabilities.
Understanding the importance of reliability and continuity in the digital finance domain, Nadcab Labs has also incorporated DNS Failover, Geo IP Routing, and a distributed server architecture into its exchange platform. This design philosophy ensures that the exchange remains operational and accessible even in the face of technical disruptions, providing a seamless and uninterrupted service experience for users.
One of the standout features of Nadcab Labs offering is its customization capability. The company recognizes that each client’s needs are unique, and as such, offers Security Exchange Development Services that are tailored to fit the specific requirements of their clients. Whether it’s adapting the exchange to operate on a preferred IT infrastructure or integrating specialized features, Nadcab Labs works closely with clients to develop a solution that aligns with their strategic objectives.
The comprehensive suite of STO Development Services offered by Nadcab Labs not only facilitates the secure and efficient exchange of security tokens but also empowers businesses and investors to tap into the burgeoning potential of digital finance. By providing a platform that combines advanced security features with unparalleled customization options, Nadcab Labs is not just developing exchanges; it’s building the foundation for the future of finance. With their expertise and innovative solutions, investing in security tokens has never been safer or more accessible, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward a fully integrated digital financial ecosystem.
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crryptoblogs · 6 months ago
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Creating a Stable Environment for Cryptocurrency Growth
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Introduction
Cryptocurrency is changing how we think about money and transactions. But for it to succeed in the long run, we need a stable environment where it can grow. This means building reliable systems, secure platforms, and following regulations. A trusted cryptocurrency exchange development company plays a big role in making this happen.
Why Stability Matters for Cryptocurrency
Stability is key to building trust in any financial system. For cryptocurrencies, it means -
Building Confidence - People are more likely to use and invest in cryptocurrencies when they trust the platforms.
Encouraging Growth - Stability attracts more users and investors, helping the market grow.
Working with Regulators - A stable system makes it easier to get support from governments and regulators.
The Role of Cryptocurrency Exchanges
Cryptocurrency exchanges are at the heart of the crypto world. They allow people to trade securely and provide the liquidity needed to keep the market moving.
Strong Security - A secure exchange protects users from hacks and fraud.
Partnering with a reliable cryptocurrency exchange development company ensures these safeguards are in place.
Custom Solutions - Tailored cryptocurrency exchange development services address specific business needs and can scale as required.
Quick Launch Options - Using white label cryptocurrency exchange software is a cost-effective way to get started fast.
Features of a Reliable Cryptocurrency Exchange
A stable cryptocurrency exchange should have these features -
High Liquidity - This makes trading smooth and reduces price fluctuations.
Useful Tools - Tools like margin trading and automated bots improve the trading experience.
For example, learning what is margin trading on a cryptocurrency exchange can help users maximize their profits.
Regulatory Compliance - A compliant exchange builds trust and avoids legal issues.
Scalable Design - The platform should handle growth as more users join.
Why Centralized Exchanges Are Important
While decentralized exchanges are gaining traction, centralized exchanges remain vital for creating stability in cryptocurrency.
Fast Transactions - Centralized exchanges process trades quickly.
Better Security - A trusted Centralized Crypto Exchange Software Development partner ensures top-notch security.
User-Friendly - These exchanges are often easier for beginners to use.
Steps to Build a Stable Exchange
Here’s how to create a stable cryptocurrency exchange -
Research the Market - Understand what users need.
Choose the Right Developer - Work with an experienced cryptocurrency exchange website development team.
Focus on Security and Scalability - Build a platform that is safe and can grow with demand.
Keep Improving - Regular updates keep the exchange running smoothly.
Conclusion
Building a stable environment for cryptocurrency growth starts with reliable exchanges. Whether you need cryptocurrency exchange development or want to launch with white label cryptocurrency exchange software, choosing the right development partner is key. By focusing on trust, security, and compliance, we can create a strong foundation for the future of cryptocurrency.
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comatosebunny09 · 7 months ago
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vēnor | sylus
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— summary: sylus must’ve gleaned all the info he needed during your exchange and dipped. figures. you’ve played your role well, and it seems he no longer requires your services. unbeknownst to you, crimson eyes narrow in the lowlight, watching the elevator doors swish shut as your target has his way with you. — cw: female reader, marking, biting, unprotected intercourse, creampie, rough sex, size kink, praise kink, cevix f-king, explicit language, jealousy, knife fight, alcohol use, mentions of blood and viscera, self-indulgent, not proofread, mdni — wc: ~4k — notes: you can prolly tell i was inspired by his new secret times, *fans self* thank you for reading, lovely! — now playing: wasted eyes - amaarae u, lost - jeremy pope
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Your mission is simple.
Saunter in. Seduce your target. Extract as much information as you can concerning the whereabouts of a particular artifact. Smile pretty. Flutter your lashes. Lure him away with the promise of pleasure. Snuff him out like a candle’s flame when the moment allows.
The setup is flawless. Routine. Until it isn’t. 
The figure clad in black, oozing smugness and sex appeal beside you, complicates things. 
Typically, you complete your missions alone. You’ve played the role of seductress so long that it’s second nature. You’re more than capable of fending for yourself if shit hits the fan. You’re a menace with a blade and just as formidable without one. 
Besides, you live for the thrill of a good fight. A few bruises and broken bones have never deterred you. According to your intel, your target came stacked with security, so you anticipate possibly getting your hands dirty. 
But he insisted on accompanying you this time around—Sylus. Reasoned he didn’t want his diamond falling into the wrong hands, whatever the hell that meant. You figure it was an excuse to micromanage you. He’d been doing it a lot lately, ever-looming like a shadow, trained to your every move. 
So, here you are—standing beside your employer as the elevator lazily descends, fretting over your hair and the occasional slip of your blouse off your shoulder. 
You’re enveloped in an unbearably tense silence. Shift your weight between your feet, trying to keep your gaze on the gilded elevator doors ahead. Even that is a task within itself, scarlet eyes occasionally capturing yours in your reflection, coupled with an omniscient smirk that causes your chest and cheeks to swell with heat.
He stands in good form beside you, hand stuffed in his pocket, hair coiffed, dressed to the nines. He’s infuriatingly calm in contrast to the maelstrom brewing inside you. 
You feel much like a child about to perform at a piano recital in front of their parents for the first time. Insane, given you’ve never been this anxious around him before. But things are…
Well, things are different now.  
Lately, your relationship with your boss has shifted on its axis, making way for tender words and disarming touches where there were once indifferent looks and tedious banter. 
You’re not entirely sure when, but at some point under his tutelage, you’ve developed a fondness for him. A part of you wonders if he feels the same pull, his recent treatment towards you slowly dismantling that carefully constructed wall between you.
The elevator pings and dips, disrupting your thoughts once it reaches its destination. 
You release a breath you were unaware of holding. Square your shoulders, mentally preparing yourself for your mission. The doors slide open, a crisp breeze fanning over your inflamed skin, ruffling your floor-length skirt. You move to dismount the lift, but slender fingers encircling your wrist halt your exit. 
They’re like a brand on your skin, searing straight to your heart. You’re stock-still as Sylus nears you, swaddling you in the warmth and enthralling scent of scorched cedarwood and cracked vanilla beans he carries. He rounds you, the tips of his shoes staining your vision. You’re wordless as worn fingertips graze your temple, sweeping errant curls behind your ear.
He chuckles something low, his other set of fingers easing beneath your chin to tilt your head back. Your breath corks in your lungs when your gazes interlock.
It’s like he’s peering into your soul, the way he studies you with a reverent shine to his eyes despite the ever-present smirk twitching his lips. You swallow thickly past the barbs in your throat. Enraptured by his gaze, you hardly notice him pushing something into your ear. Not until a sharp pitch of feedback causes you to wince until it levels out.
“Stunning,” he lauds, brushing the flat of his nails over your earpiece, outlining the curve of your cartilage. “Wouldn’t expect anything less.”
You vibrate internally from the praise. He smooths back your hair, ghosting over your neck and shoulder. Slides a thumb over the space just shy of your bottom lip, and he tracks its movement, irises darkening into a mysterious shade of garnet. 
You’re wearing his favorite color of lipstick–a dangerous shade of rouge reminiscent of wine shared over passionate nights. Your stomach pinches with something foreign. For a moment, your surroundings fall away, and only the pair of you exist in this world of pheromones and shrouded intentions. 
Briefly, you entertain the thought of conquering the gap between you. Entertain grabbing his shirt and tugging him into a kiss. Based on the flutter of his lashes as he studies your mouth, you don’t think he would be opposed to it. 
But fate has other plans for you tonight, another invasive ding from the elevator disrupting your reprieve. 
So caught up in your own little world, you hadn’t noticed that the doors closed in your idleness until someone outside called for the lift. 
“Oh shit! My bad,” says a sheepish voice from the hallway. With Sylus’ fingers still curved around your chin, the pair of you look at the intruder outside, Sylus’ expression reading annoyance, and yours, dreaminess. 
It helps that you’ve already had a drink—a glass of bourbon in your hotel room to take the edge off, loosening your inhibitions.
The music is good, too. Something sultry and ambient as you wend through the envious gazes and intrigued whispering of the bar’s other patrons in pursuit of your target. 
You feel his eyes on you, too. A familiar wash of scarlet trained on the space between your shoulder blades and the sway of your hips. The notion of him watching you so intensely sets your insides alight. 
You banish the memories of his breath on your skin—of his ghostly touches along your flesh—to the furthest reaches of your mind. It’s showtime. You’ll have plenty of time to confront these complicated feelings for your boss later. 
For now, you home in on your target. He’s dressed in something tailored and expensive, the material of his suit crisp as you slide a hand over his shoulder with a sultry smile rounding your lips. 
The gentleman looks up from the whiskey glass in his hands. Dons a smile of his own, straightening when you pour yourself onto the stool beside him. He signals to the bartender, then turns to face you, skimming over your visage with his brows lifted in intrigue. 
“Well now. What’s a pretty thing like you doing here all by yourself?” he queries, tone murky like the liquor in his glass. 
You tilt your head, your hair falling over your features just right. Cross your legs, offering him your hand to kiss. Your voice is husky. Disarming as you counter, “Handsome fella like you looked like you could use some company.” 
He drags his lips over the notches and grooves of your knuckles, whiskey-colored eyes fastened to you. Smiling, you pluck his glass from betwixt his fingers. Throw back what remains in it, the acrid sting warming your innards whilst you set it down on the sticky counter with a definitive clack.
The man whistles, clearly impressed. “Pretty and a drinker. I like you already.”
You laugh something rehearsed. Toy with the red-gemmed pendant between your collarbones. He’s charming. Good-looking. Maybe you’ll have a little fun before you take his life. You haven’t had your desires sated in a while, too busy tamping down your own needs for the love of your boss.
On cue, scarlet twinkles in your periphery. Sylus. He’s seated not too far off, nursing a glass of something viscous. Quietly biding his time, poised to step in if he deems it necessary. A part of you is spurred on by his attention. You play up the theatrics of your flirtations if only to get a rise out of him.
It’s relatively easy to fall into femme fatale mode thereafter. You chat up your target, inquiring about his profession and complimenting his taste in liquor, guided by Sylus via earpiece. 
You don’t miss the vexed clip in your boss’ voice whenever you get a little too handsy, laugh a little too bewitchingly, and bite back a smile at how envious he sounds in your ear. The gentleman is putty in your hands, a grinning, chuckling fool when you squeeze his thigh and stroke his ego. 
You pull out all the stops, feeding him alcohol until he’s red-faced with a loosened tongue, unwittingly spewing out the information you seek. He touches you as the night blurs, worn fingers smoothing over your thighs, cresting down the slope of your arm, brushing your cheek, dragging over your shoulder. 
You let him have his fill. It’s not like you aren’t enjoying yourself, too, the alcohol warming in your veins, heightening your need for physical stimulation. 
Finally, you sweep in for the kill. Angle yourself closer to your prey, your breasts pressing temptingly against his arm whilst your hands roost on his quad.
“Wanna take this party elsewhere?” you whisper, brushing the outer shell of his ear with your lips. He chuckles like the enamored fool you molded him into, dragging his mouth across your cheek in a kiss as you pull back.
“Got a room upstairs,” he husks in what little space dwells between your faces. “We could have some real fun there.”
Hook. Line. Sinker.
He takes your hand in his, drawing you from the stool. Twirls you ‘round to get a good look at you, the dangerous contours of your body accentuated by your outfit. 
Your target clicks his tongue, inwardly patting himself on the back for bagging such a beauty. He guides you through the crowd towards the elevator. And as he whisks you away, you survey your surroundings in search of a familiar shock of white. 
Disappointment spumes through you when you don’t find him through the bar's furling smoke and sultry lighting. He must’ve gleaned all the info he needed during your exchange and dipped. Figures. You’ve played your role well, and it seems he no longer requires your services for the time being. 
Where before, you felt guilty for seeking a little fun, the feeling sloughs off, replaced by disdain and spite spooling in your gut.
Your target draws you to him by your waist as the elevator doors slide shut, the pair of you flanked by two of his bodyguards. You succumb to his ministrations, his lips on a shameless excursion over your throat, drawing the sultriest little laugh from betwixt your lips. 
Unbeknownst to you, crimson eyes narrow in the lowlight, watching the elevator doors swish shut.
The hallway of the sixth floor is barren. Eerily quiet, the fluorescent lights above dancing over four figures moving over the carpeted floors. 
You toddle behind your prey, guided by interlaced fingers, swathed in the imposing aura of his bodyguards on either side of you. You feel for the blades cinched to your thigh, tucked beneath the veil of your skirt. Easing one from your garter belt, you conceal the knife in your palm, and the guards seem none-the-wiser.
Suddenly, muffled sounds erupt on either side of you. You glance back, alarmed to see the bodyguards wiped from existence. The only clue revealing their fate is a familiar, wispy coil of dark red left in their place. You narrow your eyes, jaw set in a rigid line. 
Sylus. 
Your target seems undeterred, continuing to prattle on ahead as he herds you to his room. Sylus must’ve assumed you couldn’t handle your own, which makes you buzz with irritation. 
Fine. He thinks you’re incapable? You’ll prove him wrong. 
With the blade held firm between your forefingers, you prepare to thrust it into your target’s neck. So much for having a bit of fun.
However, before you can complete the thought, something ensnares your wrist, snatching you from the hallway into the arms of an inky darkness. Your spine collides with something rigid and cold, the air siphoned from your lungs.
Your fight or flight senses kick into overdrive, and with the moonlight highlighting your assailant's silhouette, you swing your blade where you assume their head is. They release a brief sound of exertion, ducking beneath your attack. You cleave through the air again, coupling the swing with a series of kicks to put some space between you and land a hit. 
Your aggressor, seemingly familiar with your move set, catches your ankle, shoving it down to derail your attacks, and a dark chuckle vibrates the air. 
“That all you got?” they provoke, the timbre of their voice reminiscent of thunder rolling over the horizon.
You stumble back a few paces, righting yourself before charging with another slew of punches, swipes, and kicks. It’s a futile endeavor, scuffling in low visibility like this against an opponent who seems to be using the darkness to their advantage.
But you’ll be damned if you go down without a fight.
“Too slow,” tsks your foe, egging you on.
Suddenly, your attacker traps your hand clutching the blade, and you dumbly blink as they use your momentum to swing you ‘round, manacling both your wrists together at the small of your back. Your cheek squished against a glacial surface, your assailant shoves their weight against you, trapping you between a wall and the hardened slope of their body. 
Faint wisps of vanilla invade your scenes, yet the hot rush of adrenaline seeping through you blots out all logic and reason. You struggle against their hold, your labored breaths intermingling with their husky laughter. 
You grit your teeth when a hand eases down the curve of your hip, sliding over your thigh with practiced ease. You grit your teeth against the feel of it as it dips beneath your skirt’s slit to tug your remaining knives free of your garter belt.
You listen with pinched breaths as the crisp steel plunges into a far-off surface. How the hell did they know where you kept your knives?
In a ditch effort to free yourself, you thrust your hips back, momentarily throwing your attacker off-kilter. Their grip on your wrists slackens, and you spin around, planting your foot against their chest to create some distance. Twirling your knife, you thrust it towards the outline of a neck. It’s to no avail, those searing fingers once again taking possession of your wrist before you can land a blow. 
You release a frustrated cry, your hand twisting painfully until the blade plummets to the ground, sinking into the floor with a resounding thwack! Employing your other hand, you try to pry your wrist free, aiming an onslaught of kicks at your aggressor’s ribs. They effortlessly block them with the hard edge of their forearm, and your moot efforts seem to amuse them further. 
The severity of your situation settling in, soft light suddenly floods the narrow space, pouring down from overhead to reveal the contours of a familiar face.
“Sylus?” you gasp, bleary-eyed and chest heaving.
He uses your surprise to his advantage, surging forward to capture your lips. The air punched from your lungs, you trade your alarm for a bitten-off moan, fingers instinctively seeking out the silken glide of his hair. 
He pushes his tongue into the warm cavern of your mouth, swallowing your groans whilst his hands make frantic expeditions over your sides, bunching up your blouse and skirt in pursuit of the supple glide of your skin. 
Fingers curl around your thighs where they pinch and knead the flesh there, Sylus notching himself between your legs. And fuck, he’s hard, your scuffle awakening things in him he thought himself dead to.
He lifts you into his arms, and your legs intuitively wind about his waist. The hotel door rattles behind you when he slams you against it, his hands greedily sprawling over your body, burning through the layers of your skin.
“What the fuck,” you breathe when he releases your mouth, and you crane your neck to the side, granting him more access whilst he brands your throat with the languid drag of his lips. 
He nips and sucks in a way that borders pain, his breaths sweltering and ragged, matching the roll of his hips. The rough stitching of his slacks acquaints itself with your center, and you sigh all hot and wanton, your spine scrubbing against the door whilst he grinds into you.
“Did you really think I’d let him have his way with you?” he pants through the lust-ladened haze, dragging his lips over your shoulder and collarbones, down to the ample swell of your breasts. He rakes his teeth over the skin there, sure to leave pretty blooms of purple and blue in their wake.
You huff a laugh, the back of your head colliding with the door. “Oh, Sylus. Don’t tell me you were jealous.” 
Of course, you were banking on it, playing your role too well. 
You yip when he bites you in warning, the predatory gleam of his eyes trained on your face. “How could I be jealous if you’re already mine?”
You scoff at that, a wave of ecstasy surging through you when his fingers ease between your thighs, grazing your labia, rucking your panties to one side to reveal your own desire. Your back bows when he prods your puckering sex with two fingers, and he chuckles against your neck, the sound of it making your pussy flutter with excitement.
“Seems I’m not the only one affected by our little spat.” With a few more strokes up the span of your cunt, he sinks his digits inside you, and you share a pleased exhale as you greedily suck him in down to the hilt. 
“Look at you. So ready for me. And to think you were so eager to give this away to another man.”
“Do you always talk this much,” you breathe, draping your arms around his shoulders. Screw your eyes shut, humping against his fingers, chasing that sweet coiling sensation building in your tummy.
“Are you always this impatient,” counters Sylus, open-mouthed against your chin, his thumb sifting through the thick folds of your sex in search of your clit. He presses down, and you shudder, the sound of his name curling around your tongue, making his dick jump.
“Only with you. Unh, fuck. Just with—just with you.”
“Tell me you want this,” he rasps into the hollow of your neck. Scissors his fingers inside you, slowly unraveling those bundles of nerves inside, the vulgar squelch of your cunt intermingling with your labored breaths. “Beg me to fuck you, or I’ll stop.”
To punctuate his words, he slows the pleasurable drag of his fingers, and you whine, clinging to his shoulders for dear life. 
The heat of embarrassment washes over you. You’re too far gone to care. Too enraptured to give a damn about your facade or pride. Need him inside you, otherwise, you might just die.
“Your words, sweetheart. Use them,” he coaxes on a rasp.
“Fuck me,” you relent, baring down on his digits curling inside you. “Fuck me, Sylus, please.”
“Good girl,” he praises, already freeing himself from the restrictive pull of his slacks and briefs. 
You’ve no time to admire his size in the dimness. Too clouded by lust, your eyes fixated on his while he rubs the swollen head against the seam of your pussy. He prods your sticky opening, and your mouth waters with anticipation, the sheer size of his head alone enough to stretch you nice and open for him.
“Deep breaths, darling,” he coos against your hinged-open mouth. And your thighs crater between his fingers as he sinks you onto his cock, the strain of pushing into you stealing the air from his chest. 
“Oh fuck,” you gasp. “Oh fuck, fuck, fuck.” You’re halfway sobbing, gritting your teeth, your fingers buried in the collar of his shirt, and your face falls into the crook of his shoulder, where you bite and suck, seeking a little respite from the painful stretch. 
“That’s it, sweetheart. Breathe for me.” He isn’t intentionally being pompous. Knows he’s thicker than the average bear, and as much as he burns to be buried inside you, he doesn’t want to hurt you more than necessary.
Soon, the pain subsides, making way for little flutters of pleasure when he’s fully eased home, his swollen cockhead kissing your cervix. When he’s sure you’ve adjusted to his girth, he fucks into you with shallow thrusts at first, watching your face for any signs of discomfort. 
Despite the moment, he’s a patient lover. Taking his time moving inside you, invoking pretty sounds from your lips. A thick ring of cream forms around the base of his cock as he ruts into you, your intermingled fluids scorching down the inner cut of your thigh. 
As time passes, your moans crescendo, spurring him on, and he fucks into you a little harder, your nails forming angry crescents in his traps through the fabric of his shirt. One of your heels falls off and clatters against the floor, he’s fucking you so good. So deep, battering against your cervix.
“You take me so well, sweetheart,” he dotes into the junction of your neck and shoulder, bouncing you on his cock a little faster. “So deep. It’s like you were made to be my precious little cock sleeve.”
You can do nothing but gasp at the delicious friction, blanketed in the throes of passion, in the feel of him nestled deep inside you, filling you to the brim. 
You feel like you’re in a dream, being fucked by your boss like this. The object of your desires, the focal point of your fantasies and affections. Your clit scrubs against his pelvic bone with each thrust, and that sparkling rush of ecstasy begins to bloom in your tummy.
“Gonna cum?” he husks, your walls clenching around him.
You nod, your voice lodged in your throat, and you tangle your fingers in the delicate sweep of hair at his nape, pulling him in for a kiss, pouring every pent-up feeling into the warm chasm of his mouth. 
Spurred by the delicious drag of his cock inside you, by his tongue licking into your mouth, and by your puckered nipples grazing against the hardened lines of his shirt, you cum. God, you cum.
And the world slides into white, your mouth opening with a moan seemingly dragged from the bowels of your chest, your toes curling against the divots of his buttocks. He fucks you through it, pulled over the edge with you, hot spurts of cum flooding the searing clench of your pussy.
He holds you like this against the door, swathed in the symphony of your quickened heartbeats and breaths. Gulps down air, his forehead nestled against your shoulder, a fine sheen of sweat covering your bodies whilst you pet through locks of powder white, drawing him down from the sky. 
He hums against your lips, drawing you into a sticky kiss that lingers and etches a smile onto your face. He plucks you from the door, tenderly gathering you into his hands to walk you into the bathroom. 
He sets you down on the crisp countertop, the marble cold beneath your inflamed skin. And you paw from him like a needy kitten whilst he divests himself of his clothing, chuckling when he steps between your thighs to rid you of your wrinkled attire.
“Sylus,” you query, blinking lazily up at him whilst he draws you into his arms, turning you toward the shower. He hums in reply, a boyish gleam to his eyes and a smile rounding his lips. “What about the target?”
Sylus snorts, depositing you beneath the warm spray of the shower, the water already working to ease the strain on your muscles. 
“I already took care of it.” And with his hands perched on your hips, he angles himself to kiss you, full-bodied on the lips, never wanting to hear another man’s name touch your tongue again.
Meanwhile, Luke and Kieran meander through the quiet halls of the sixth floor, their masks spattered with blood and viscera as they whistle a wistful tune.
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astrofaeology · 25 days ago
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Venus in the Houses
paid readings | masterlist
ᡣ𐭩 Please support me by reposting, liking, following me and commenting your placement. Venus in the natal chart represents love, romance and luxury. Knowing your venus placement can help you understand what type of beauty/love language you have.
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1st house your personal charm and attractiveness are immediately apparent. You naturally exude a loving and amiable disposition, making you generally well-liked and easy to get along with. Your appearance often reflects your sense of beauty and harmony, and you might take great care in how you present yourself. Relationships are deeply personal to you, and you express affection directly and often with a focus on harmony. You value yourself and your personal brand of beauty.
2nd house strongly links love, beauty, and your personal resources. You value security and material comfort, and you're likely to enjoy accumulating beautiful possessions. There's a strong connection between your self-worth and your financial stability. You might attract money easily, or you find satisfaction in earning it to spend on things you love. Your relationships are often built on a foundation of shared values and a desire for stability, and you show affection through generosity or by providing comfort.
3rd house communication and intellectual connection are key to your relationships. You're charming and persuasive in your speech, often attracting others through your wit and pleasant manner. You enjoy social interactions, short trips, and learning new things with a partner. Love might develop through shared ideas, common interests, or even through siblings or neighbors. You value good conversation and harmonious exchanges, and you express affection through words and engaging dialogue.
4th house places a strong emphasis on love, harmony, and beauty within your home and family life. You deeply value emotional security and a peaceful domestic environment. Your home is likely a sanctuary, beautifully decorated and a place where you feel most comfortable expressing affection. You might have a loving relationship with your parents or form a close, nurturing family of your own. You seek comfort, stability, and emotional warmth in your relationships, often preferring to entertain at home.
5th house love is expressed with passion, creativity, and a sense of joy. You enjoy romance, dating, and all forms of self-expression. You're likely to be very popular, drawing others to you with your playful and affectionate nature. This placement often indicates talent in the arts, enjoyment of children, and a love for leisure and entertainment. You express affection grandly, often through gifts, creative endeavors, or simply showering your loved one with attention and admiration.
6th house means you express love through service, practicality, and helpfulness. You find satisfaction in assisting others and might attract partners through your work or daily routines. You value a harmonious work environment and often get along well with colleagues. In relationships, you show affection by being supportive, organized, and attentive to your partner's needs. You appreciate a healthy lifestyle and might enjoy activities that improve well-being with your loved ones. The challenge here can be over-analyzing relationships or being overly critical.
7th house is a powerful placement for relationships, making partnerships a central focus of your life. You are drawn to harmony, balance, and committed one-on-one connections. You thrive in partnership and often seek a soulmate or an ideal relationship. You're generally very charming and diplomatic, easily attracting others and striving for fairness in all your interactions. You value reciprocity and cooperation, and you express affection through your dedication to the partnership itself.
8th house love is deep, intense, and often transformative. You are drawn to profound emotional and physical intimacy, seeking powerful connections that go beyond the superficial. You might be attracted to mysterious or psychologically complex individuals. This placement can also relate to shared resources, inheritance, or joint finances, and you value financial partnerships. You express affection with great depth and loyalty, and you're willing to explore the hidden or taboo aspects of relationships. Trust and transformation are key themes for you.
9th house indicates that you find love and beauty in broader horizons – through travel, higher education, philosophy, or foreign cultures. You're attracted to partners who share your quest for knowledge, adventure, or spiritual understanding. You value freedom and a sense of exploration in your relationships, and you might find love with someone from a different background or culture. You express affection through shared ideals, philosophical discussions, and a mutual pursuit of truth and expansion.
10th house links your love life and values to your public image, career, and reputation. You might attract partners who are successful or hold a position of respect. You value achievement and recognition, and your relationships can positively impact your public standing. You present yourself graciously and charmingly in your professional life, often attracting opportunities through your amiable demeanor. You express affection in a more dignified or reserved way, prioritizing long-term commitment and shared goals related to status or career.
11th house your love and affection are often expressed within your social circles, friendships, and group associations. You're popular and have many friends, often blurring the lines between platonic and romantic relationships. You're attracted to unique, intellectual, and unconventional individuals who share your ideals and humanitarian interests. You value freedom, equality, and shared goals within your relationships, and you express affection through camaraderie, shared activities, and a focus on collective harmony.
12th house your love life can be quite private, complex, or spiritual. You might have secret admirers, hidden relationships, or a deep, sometimes idealized, love that exists on a more ethereal plane. You are compassionate, empathetic, and often drawn to helping those in need. You value unconditional love and spiritual connection, and you may find beauty in solitude or behind the scenes. Your expression of affection can be subtle, selfless, or even self-sacrificing, and you might be drawn to partners who need your compassion. This placement can also indicate hidden talents in art or music.
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DISCLAIMER: None of my posts are intended to cause strife and if it doesn't resonate leave it. This post is a generalisation and may not resonate. I recommend you get a reading from an astrologer (me). If you want a reading from me check out my sales page.
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onionsites · 1 year ago
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ONİONSİTES - DRAGON+ (2)
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Onion sites, also known as.onion sites, are a unique type of website that can only be accessed through the Tor network. The Tor network, short for The Onion Router, provides a layer of anonymity and encryption for users accessing these sites, making them popular for those seeking privacy and security online. Unlike traditional websites that can be accessed through standard web browsers, onion sites list require special software, such as the Tor browser, to navigate. Individuals can create onion versions of regular websites or develop standalone onion sites for specific purposes. The exclusivity and privacy features of onion sites contribute to their appeal for various users, ranging from privacy advocates to individuals navigating the dark web for specific content.
There are several reasons why individuals choose to use onion sites, with privacy and anonymity being at the forefront. Onion sites offer a level of confidentiality that is not typically found on the surface web, making them attractive to individuals seeking to protect their identity and browsing habits. Moreover, best onion sites can provide access to content that may be restricted or censored in certain regions, allowing users to circumvent such limitations and access information freely. The encrypted nature of the Tor network adds an additional layer of security, reducing the risk of surveillance and tracking by third parties, including governments and internet service providers.
Common types of content found on onion sites range from forums and marketplaces to news outlets and secure communication platforms. While exploring onion sites, individuals may come across forums, chat rooms, file-sharing platforms, and other interactive spaces that facilitate communication and information exchange in a secure environment. The anonymity and encryption offered 2024 onion sites contribute to a unique online experience, enabling users to engage with content and communities that may not be easily accessible through conventional web browsers.
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kleopatra45 · 7 months ago
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Sun in the Houses of D9 Chart
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1st House
When you have the Sun in your first house that partner must be one who helps you find your uniqueness and express it. This is a person who most likely knows they are right about something, firm in their beliefs. Something about them is very large, maybe even radiating and they might play an active role in your life guiding you to the realization of your own magnificence. Be ready for someone who tells you to be all best version of yourself possible, and respects your boundaries. Or mirrors — so that both the strengths and flaws can be reflected, providing a chance for greater awareness.
2nd House
Sun in the 2nd house means your future husband is someone who seeks stability and security, especially financially. Expectations will likely run high for loyalty and commitment, too, as they may either come from a place of strong financial means or be very good at managing resources. Can be the practical, pragmatic earthy side of a partner who appreciates simple pleasures and finds sense in building and curating comforts in your home. The may assist you discover your value, particularly in relation to self-respect educating you all about having a sense of worth in the relationship.
3rd House
A Sun in Third House — If you have your sun here, you will probably be drawn towards someone who piques your curious and communicative side. They could be a listener, a thinker or someone who enjoys the exchange of ideas and ideas. In this connection, communication is at the heart of who your partner will be, they will retain a razor-sharp wit and be inquisitive (even if it may seem challenging), and possess agility in being able to explore new directions. They might work in communication, media or educational fields and they will challenge you to be connected with the world. This partner provides enough of a spark to keep your mental wheels turning as you venture throughout life.
4th House
With the Sun in the fourth house, your compatible partner is likely someone who attaches great importance to kinship, heritage, and sentimental security. They may have a profound, nurturing essence, and they’ll probably bring warmth and solace to your shared domestic situation. This individual might have strong familial bonds or be intensely linked to their origins, and they will prioritize constructing a protected and loving home base. They're likely contemplative and emotionally astute, valuing internal development and a sanctuary-like area. With them, you’ll feel at home in your soul, as though you’ve discovered someone who offers deep, unwavering aid and foundation. Additionally, this person has the ability to connect with others on an emotional level through thoughtful discussion and a calm, gentle demeanor. While home and heritage are priorities, they also value personal growth through respectful, insightful exchanges that bring greater understanding.
5th House
The Sun in the fifth house indicates that your prospective spouse will be amorous, artistic, and playful. They'll add a spark of passion and enthusiasm to your life, and they're inclined to like art, self-expression, and spontaneity. They could be someone with a lively, childlike personality who exudes optimism and charisma. This spouse values romance and is prone to express it in dramatic or distinctive ways. If you want children, they may be very involved in your children's life, adding joy and excitement to family gatherings, or they may urge you to express your creativity through collaborative projects.
6th House
With the Sun in the sixth house, your spouse could be someone who exemplifies perseverance, resilience, and a sense of service. They could work in a healing or service-oriented field, such as healthcare, education, or community work. This person loves hard work and will most likely provide structure and support in your life, allowing you to keep healthy routines and balanced obligations. They are grounded and may have a quiet, unassuming nature, expressing their love through acts of service rather than grandiose displays. This relationship will most likely be one of mutual support, in which you collaborate to attain long-term goals and inner harmony.
7th House
The Sun in the seventh house indicates that your spouse will have a great effect on your life, most likely someone with a strong personality and leadership skills. They will exude confidence and may have a charisma that naturally draws people in. This someone may be highly motivated and accomplished in their area, even appreciated by others. They will look for an equal partner in you, with whom they can create a life of balance and mutual respect. Your journey with this person will feel like a meaningful partnership, with each of you learning from and growing alongside the other.
8th House
A spouse who enters your life with the Sun in the ninth house is likely to be mysterious, intense, and emotionally deep. This companion will provide transforming experiences to help you discover hidden elements of yourself. They may be highly perceptive and drawn to psychology, spirituality, or healing. Expect a deep connection that goes under the surface, where passion and difficulties help you grow together. This person may be financially resourceful, and they can assist you in managing shared resources. You'll discover the power of vulnerability and deep, heartfelt connection as you explore life's mysteries together.
9th House
With the Sun in the ninth house, your spouse is likely to value knowledge, philosophy, and adventure. They could have a broad viewpoint, possibly originating from a different background or having a strong interest in travel, spirituality, or education. They'll motivate you to grow and widen your horizons, allowing you to experience life from other angles. This companion could be a teacher or mentor who will inspire you to embrace your beliefs and spirituality. Together, you'll start on a lifelong adventure of learning, growth, and purpose.
10th House
When your Sun occupies the tenth house, it indicates that your future partner would be someone who is not only ambitious and industrious but also earns respect in their workspace. Such individuals are most likely to be career-driven wanting to change the world in some way and even take up an exalted position. This person will help you to fulfill your dreams and motivate you to think about the dreams in the far horizon. Such ambitions will be round you, and as important they will regard the joint legacy creation, with them, you will be able to achieve a way of living, which is meritocratic, and dignified. They can perhaps be the more level-headed of the two and, as a couple, you will forge an interdependent bond of respect, ambition and stability.
11th House
The placement of the Sun in the eleventh house suggests that the person could have a spouse who is reminiscent of a best friend- someone who resonates with their dreams and aspirations. Such a person is outgoing, modern, and may be engaged in some kind of organizational activities. A person like this holds friendship in high esteem, and this brings into the partnership cohesion and cooperation. This person may broaden your horizons or motivate you to achieve your goals. There will be common goals and values that will act as a strong foundation of your relationship, and you shall be happy in creating a world that integrates your uniqueness and the objectives you wish to achieve.
12th House
With the placement of your Sun in the twelfth house, it is likely your future partner will be someone with a very soft heart or perhaps spiritual or even enigmatic. Such a person may be involved in some self-healing or inner work and they will most certainly assist you in exploring the more obscure aspects of existence. This mate may be more suited to being on their own, enjoying activities such as silence, contemplation or creative art. They will provide you with emotional stability and tranquility, teaching you that sometimes it is necessary to turn within to appreciate one’s surroundings. You’d share a love that goes well beyond the physical level, towards greater principles of existence such as love, life, and the spirit. This bond will probably have an ethereal quality.
©️kleopatra45
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marydoyouwrite · 3 months ago
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Back to Me
PAIRING: idol!Jaehyun x militarygeneral!Reader
GENRE: smut, angst
SUMMARY: The youngest and first female military chief is embroiled in a dating scandal. While she isn't willing to put his rumored beau at risk, the man is a willing participant, only if she would allow him.
WARNINGS: overstimulation, Jaehyun has a bulge kink, pussy eating, it gets messy at the end there's mentions of blood and violence, my military terms for sure aren't accurate so please read with a grain of salt! <3
enjoy!
8.5k word count
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Breaking News: South Korea's Youngest and First Female Military Intelligence Chief Finally Has a Beau?
Seoul, South Korea — In a surprising turn of events, South Korea's youngest and first female Military Intelligence Chief, General YN Park, who has captivated the nation with her unprecedented rise in the military, is reportedly no longer flying solo.
General YN, just 36 years old, broke multiple glass ceilings when she assumed the top position in South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) last year. Known for her unparalleled strategic mind, her dedication to national security, and her stoic public persona, the news of her newfound relationship has caught everyone off guard.
Despite the intense scrutiny and pressure associated with her high-profile role, the General has managed to keep her private life out of the public eye until now. Rumors about a mystery beau have been swirling for weeks due to surfaced photos with a man whom other sources say to closely resemble NCT 127’s member, Jung Jaehyun.
Although no one has confirmed the identity of the man in the photos, some have pointed out that he appears to be familiar with the General’s close-knit circle.
"We’ve never seen General Park in this kind of casual setting before," said Han Min-seok, a military analyst and former intelligence officer. "It’s a rare glimpse into her personal life, and it’s sparked a lot of curiosity. Given her high profile and position, the idea of her having someone close to her is, frankly, surprising, and people are eager to know more."
Despite the media frenzy, neither the General’s office nor the Ministry of National Defense have issued any statements about the photos. Sources close to the General have been tight-lipped, and her team has refused to answer questions about her personal life. However, some insiders suggest that Park has always maintained a strict separation between her career and her personal matters.
For now, speculation remains rampant. Public reactions have been mixed, with some expressing support for the General’s right to a private life, while others are questioning the potential impact of her relationship—whatever its nature—on her leadership role. General Park’s legacy as a trailblazer for women in the military, particularly in her groundbreaking position, may be complicated if her personal life begins to overshadow her professional achievements.
One thing is certain: South Koreans are watching closely, and the mystery of General Park’s private life seems poised to captivate the nation in the days to come.
As the story develops, stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing, and increasingly personal, story.
—-----
After reading the news article, you gave the tablet back to your chief of staff. "I don't know what you want me to do about this, Yujin, but I have an audience with the President tonight."
Yujin looks at you incredulously. "Exactly my point. You don’t think he’s going to grill you on this?"
You sift through the mountain of files on your desk and let your eyes linger on the names of the people that kidnapped eight south-koreans, including the of the National Assembly’s current speaker, all in exchange for ransom and request for extradition of their Russian mafia leader. The case has been a real headache and you want nothing but to make sure you get everyone out of this chaos unscathed. 
"No, because we have a high profile kidnapping case to solve."
“You say that but the president has never missed an opportunity to inquire about your romantic stints! So can you please let me do my job and tell me if any of these are true?”
It was your turn to look at Yujin incredulously. "There's nothing. It was just dinner as friends."
"Are you sure? Because we're releasing a denial on this and you can't make me  retract this next month even if I have to resign!"
And just when you're about to answer Yujin, your cell phone goes off and her eyes go big at the name it displays. She snatches your phone before you can and answers it and puts it on speaker mode. "Speak." Yujin mouths.
You roll your eyes. "Jaehyun, Yujin is listening in."
"What the fuck, YN."
"Yujin, language." Jaehyun laughs from the other line while Yujin is seething.
You allow yourself to sit down. You also massage your temples because of how Yujin is acting at the whole thing. She’s always been efficient at being Chief of Staff ever since you took the position as Chief of Military Intelligence three years ago and while you love her persistence and attention to detail, you don’t like it when you’re the subject of it. 
"So I'm guessing you've read the articles."
"Jaehyun, are you two dating?!"
"Jae, don't mind Yujin, I already told her we aren’t and she's going to put that out."
"Wait! I wanted to talk to you about that."
"About what?"
"I was just thinking... I wouldn't mind if you said we were dating."
"What the fuck?"
"YN language."
You scoffed and blurted, "Jaehyun, we aren't dating."
You stand up from your seat and approach the window in your office overlooking the city. Your mind is racing at Jaehyun’s words mulling over what to do about it. You want to swat his soul out of his body for the irresponsibility of just saying whatever he wants. But then it’s Jaehyun, he really does say whatever he wants. 
—Beginning—
You recall how you two met. 6 years ago in New York, coming from a scalding session with your then superior, you went straight to a bar of the hotel where you were staying. You were there as part of an activity under South Korea and US’ visiting forces agreement and you had a blunder earlier that day for being provoked by a US Military Officer. You clearly let his provocation get to you so you got a good scolding from your superior. “You are above and better than that,” was what he repeatedly said. And although you’re already used to the heat of military work, you still need to blow off steam for your mental health. 
“One old fashioned.” 
You put your head down as you wait for the bartender to finish preparing your drink. You feel the shift on the seat next to you but you don’t put your head up. You’re too focused on blowing off steam. 
“Can I get a Whiskey?” At the same time the person next to you orders, your drink is ready. You lift your head to take a sip of your drink and you just stare off into space. No thoughts, just head empty.
“Ma’am?” You turn at the sound of your native language and see two pairs of innocent looking eyes stare at you expectantly. You knit your eyebrows and surveyed his whole face and decided he looked vaguely familiar to you. You can’t decide whether his face is familiar because he looks like a model for magazines or because you’ve already seen him somewhere. 
“I’m sorry, I’m Jaehyun and I’ve already done my military service in Korea. I sometimes see you at events and during our training. You’re 1st Lt. YN, ma’am.” That’s why he looks familiar. You probably crossed paths more than once. 
“It’s Captain now, but yeah, YN. Sorry, Jaehyun, is it?”
“Yes, Captain. I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me. I didn’t expect to cross paths with you here. Are you vacationing?” 
You’re wary about sharing too much information but for some reason, the way he talks, his body language, and the slight redness in his ears, puts you at ease. So you engage, a little bit.
“I’m here for work. You?”
“I’m also here for work. Would you mind if I joined you a bit longer?”
You stared at Jaehyun and noted that your instincts and senses aren’t on heightened alert like how it usually does in the presence of a stranger. You don’t sense a hint of malice in his presence and somehow he radiates a certain kind of warmth. How he does it, you don’t know but you decide to just humor yourself.
That night, when you decided it was time to rest, you realized you had a great time. Jaehyun was a conversationalist with a tinge of naughtiness just bubbling beneath the surface of his calm demeanor. You suppose he can’t show his full self yet. Not in front of his once superior, you get that. But even with his restraint, he managed to get more than a laugh or two out of you. Once or twice, his fingers brushed with yours. And more than thrice, you saw his line of sight align with your lips. Nothing escaped you.
If anything impressed you out of the whole exchange, it was him asking for your number. He rubbed the back of his neck while asking if he could get in touch with you sometimes when you’re back in South Korea. “Although of course, I don’t expect you to. You’re the busiest!” He added.
You wanted to give him credit. You’ve talked with many men that had their intentions laid down in the open and while you’re flattered by their respect and interest, no one ever dared to ask for your number when it was time to say goodbye. But Jaehyun did. So you don’t make it hard for him and gave him your number.
You bid your farewells but you remained in touch. You eventually discovered what he does for work and was even more impressed at his talent and charisma. Needless to say, both of you remained friends with all the benefits of it, including great sex.
And god, only thinking about sex with Jaehyun is enough to make your toes curl. He was a great person and an even better fuck. No one can make you cry and beg on your knees apart from him. So you never met anyone anymore. Only he can satisfy the itch you get every once in a while. Only he can make you submit wholeheartedly.
But despite all the passionate nights, never did it progress to something more. Especially not when you were appointed Chief of Military Intelligence three years after you met. There was a quiet acknowledgment that both your professions came first above all else. 
And for your part, you could never put his life at risk. You know you were pushing it when you selfishly chose to keep him in your life. To call him when you need a little reprieve from everything. Just the possibility of your enemies targeting Jaehyun for his connection with you is enough to send your stomach spinning. And your enemies are not few. With the bold decisions that had to be made for the safety of the nation, angry people are at your left and right. You vowed to never put the people you care for in a position of danger. Especially not Jaehyun.
You snapped back into reality and addressed Yujin. “Anyway, deny it. We’re not dating. I’m no longer discussing this.”
—One—
“Jaehyun and I are dating,” the way the words rolled off your tongue was more of a question rather than a statement. You chastised yourself because did you really have to end up using this card just to get what you want? In your defense, you’re backed against the wall with no other remedy but to appeal to emotion. 
“Come again? Are you two really?” The President is eyeing you very intensely trying to figure out if you were just bluffing. You did a quick look at Yujin and saw her mouth hanging open. “YN, if you’re making this up, you know I’ll see through your bluff,” he adds.
You stand up from where you’re seated, take the Whiskey you’ve been offered a while ago, and maintain eye contact with the President. If there’s anyone who’s best at bluffing, it better be you.
“Mr. President, I tell you I want to do this mission myself but you tell me you worry I won’t be back alive. I tell you I will and that not a single South Korean will die on that night, you tell me you needed assurance. And since my love for this country doesn’t seem enough to convince you that I have the willpower of a bull to pull this off, I’m telling you that I will be back because someone I love is waiting for me. And I can’t bear to disappoint that man.”
The President stares at you, studies you, and you know your sincerity came across. Of course you and Jaehyun aren’t dating. But there wasn’t a single lie on the things you said just now. It’s not normal for the Chief to be the person on the ground doing the mission. But this time, you weighed the risks and you can’t bear having someone else do it. The potential of dying leans more towards dying versus not dying. And while you trust your subordinates, this is something you have to take.
So you weren’t lying. It’s true that you can’t bear the thought of sadness and grief taking over Jaehyun’s handsome face. Not when you’ve never even talked about feelings. You’re going to make it back alive from that mission no matter what it takes.
“Okay,” the President sighs in defeat. “But I need a run down of the plan. I need my general back and make it so until your last limb.”
You gave the President a curt nod, “On my last fucking limb,” You gave a salute to the President and walked out of the conference room. Behind you is a quiet Yujin. 
“You’re mad,”
“Of course not. Why would I be mad? We just released an article denying everything about YOU and JAEHYUN dating only for you to confirm it before the President. That’s not something to be mad about.”
You stop in your tracks and turn to face your seething Chief of Staff, “This mission is the most important to me right now.” Yujin seems to soften at the sound of your gentle tone. “And so is going back alive because Jaehyun and I aren’t dating, yet. And I want us to.”
Yujin’s eyes go big at your revelation and she understandfully nods. “Now, let’s plan this mission good,” As you walk towards your office, you send a text message to the person who has no idea what he was pulled into.
Are you free tonight? 
—Two—
1 message 
Ma’am General: Are you free tonight?
Jaehyun smiles at your message knowing that the only reason you’re sending this is because you want to meet up. And he very much wants to, too. Before he gets to respond, he’s interrupted by Johnny, “You guys down for some drinks after practice?”
“Uh, I’ll pass.” And Johnny chuckles at his quick response, knowing full well why he’s not coming. He sees Doyoung whip his head in his direction. “Jaehyun, are you meeting YN again?! I swear to god, you just had articles about you today!”
He winces at Doyoung’s scolding. It’s mild to say that the management was pissed. They were blindsided, how could they not be pissed. They learned about his “closeness” with you through the news and if that wasn’t enough, an official statement was released confirming that the two of you are in fact not dating. Talk about a whiplash. So he’s not surprised why Doyoung is feeling so sensitive.
“Ya, hyung, give Jaehyun hyung a break,” Haechan butts in. “We’re kinda too grown for this now. I think Jaehyun hyung’s age is the right age to get into dating scandals.” The youngest one winks at his direction and Jaehyun laughs at his cheekiness. 
“Thanks Haechan, but I don’t mind. I did kinda blindside everyone. But Doyoung hyung, that should be General YN for all of us.”
Doyoung just sighs and continues with practicing choreo for the group’s upcoming tour. He’ll console the older member later when he’s less angry. He knows Doyoung is coming from good intentions but Jaehyun won’t dare comfort him while he’s in his feels.
“You know he’s just worried right?” Taeyong comes from behind him while fixing his shoes.
“Of course, dating scandals are never good for idols and their groups,” he replied knowingly.
“No, that’s not why,” Jaehyun turns to Taeyong, a bit confused. “The General? Never doubted you could pull a woman like that but shit, that’s some dangerous waters. You’re aware how many enemies she has, right? Especially with some controversial decisions she made, I bet there’s a long list of people targeting her.”
Jaehyun knew. Of course he did. But someone verbalizing it like this just sends a shiver down his spine. His stomach churns at the thought of powerful people  putting a big red target on your head. And what’s worse is he’s not in the most ideal position to ensure you’re always safe.
“So Doyoung is just worried because people close to the General also become targets by default and not because he thinks this is affecting the group. Besides, Haechan’s right, it's about time we got involved in dating scandals,” you snicker at the last bit.
Taeyong taps your shoulder and you’re left to your thoughts. But as how he has approached it ever since, he doesn’t dwell on it too much because nothing good is going to come out of that trail of thought.
Technically speaking, you and him aren’t dating. But Jaehyun knows its just a matter of communication. He’s confident where he stands in your life if your moans and late night calls are any indicator of it. But apart from those things, your subtle way of caring always touched his heart. And if that’s all you can give him, he’ll take it. 
When am I never? Should I pick you up?
Jaehyun sends you a reply and walks to where his stuff is to start fixing. He finishes packing and bids the team farewell, “See you tomorrow!”
He’s going to take a good shower before meeting you. By how this day went, he’s guessing you’re going to want to melt into a hug immediately and just the thought of it puts a smile on his face. No one knows that side of you. Not even Yujin who has been with you for the longest time since your early years in the military. Only he gets to witness the soft, whiny, and sweet side of the nation’s steelhearted General. 
Ma’am General calling…
“Ma’am? Something wrong?” Ma’am has become a pet name between the two of you. He loves how the endearment annoys you just a little bit. So when you respond without any snark, Jaehyun’s a bit worried.
“Nothing wrong. Just… I kinda can’t go anywhere without my security right now. Is it going to be a bother if you went to my place instead? I have something to tell you.”
“YN, of course not. I’m just going to take a shower and head straight to where you are. Also, are you sure you’re okay?”
“Yep. Just a lot of things. But I’ll tell you everything later,” you blow out a long frustrated sigh on the other line. “I’m gonna need a year’s worth of sleep after everything.”
“You need coffee, got it.”
“Shit, you’re good. That got me horny,” he chuckles and shakes his head. This is another side of you that has made him fall so hard. “See you in a bit, YN. I’ll be quick.”
—Three—
The door to your house opens and it reveals a very fresh, very newly showered, Jung Jaehyun. In his left hand is the coffee he promised you. While you want to jump him, you restrain yourself because you’re about to deliver him some news that will probably wipe the dimply-grin he has off his face.
“I want to hug you but I’m gross and you’re newly showered,” you’re slumped on your sofa and you look at the uniform you’re still wearing. Your boots are still on and your hair is for sure a mess after wearing your beret the whole day. You don’t even want to try and smell yourself. 
“You in your uniform never fail to give me a hard on, YN,” you scoff at the man who went straight to where your boots are to remove them from your feet. “You and your kinks,” you retorted.
You stare at Jaehyun who is currently untying the lace of your boots. He removes the left boot and the right and as he successfully removes both your socks, he massages your feet a little bit. Just enough to relax your soles. This man, who also must have had an equally exhausting day, went straight to give you a foot massage. 
“How does a hot bath sound?”
“To be honest, heavenly,” Jaehyun lifts his head to look at you, a small smile playing on his lips. “Let me prepare one for you.” You mumble a small and shy okay before Jaehyun stands and goes upstairs, probably to your room to prepare the warm bath. 
You fidget your toes as you wait for him to come back. These things that Jaehyun is doing for you are more than just fruits of friendship, you’re sure of it. But there’s an ongoing war in your mind that holds you back. You worry he’ll resent you one day for failing to protect him both from physical and emotional harm and you can’t live with the possibility. But you want him so much since the first night you met that it’s killing you inside.
“YN, think we can get you undressed while the tub is being filled with water.”
“Yeap, okay,” you start to get up but Jaehyun stops you. So you just look at him confused. “Let me take you up.” You don’t protest his proposition as he carries you like a child in his arms. He’s carried you way too many times already to be flustered at the gesture. Hell, his tongue even tasted every inch of your skin. But even as you convince yourself that it’s not a big deal, your face betrays you. And when Jaehyun looks at you, he notices the warmth spreading on your cheeks and all of a sudden, he feels warm, too. 
Jaehyun sets you down on the bed and goes to the bath probably to check if the tub’s been filled and the water is just right. Just a few moments and Jaehyun is back with you. He unbuttons your top and hangs it up in your dresser. He unzips and peels off your pants next until you’re only in your underwear. He gives you a nice kiss on the cheeks as he removes your bra. His hands trail to your hips and the lace of your panty is just between his fingers for a second too long before he pulls it down. And now you’re fully naked in front of him. You see the up and down of his throat but in the years you’ve known him, you know he absolutely won’t make a move unless he’s done making you comfortable.
Jaehyun carries you to the bath and settles you gently into the tub. You sigh at the contact of warm water, it’s like all the worries and stress  dissipate with the steam. Jaehyun puts some shampoo into your scalp scrubber and he starts massaging your head with it.
“That feels so good,” you groan with so much relief.
“So good you can relax?”
“Absolutely.”
There was comfortable silence afterwards. You just stare at Jaehyun and his busy hands cleaning your hair and then lathering soap on your body giving your tense muscles some good massage here and there. 
“I have to talk to you about something.”
“Of course, I’m listening,” he responds as he scoops some water in his hands to wash away some soap that got too close to your eye.
“I told the President we’re dating,” Jaehyun looks at you with parted lips.
“But you said -”
“I know, but,” you sigh before continuing, “something came up.”
“Hey, what’s up?” Jaehyun asks carefully, probably being cautious about not pressuring you into divulging details you can’t share, another thing that you appreciate about him the most. 
“There’s this mission we’re preparing for. And based on my assessment, I think it’s best for me to be personally involved in it,” Jaehyun slowly nods in understanding.
“But how does that relate to you telling the President that we’re dating? But just so you know, totally not mad about it. I like it, actually.” You roll your eyes at the cheeky smile that Jaehyun whipped up. And you flicked some water towards his face when he kept raising his eyebrows.
“The President thinks it's a dangerous mission and that he could lose his Chief from it. HE doesn’t believe my love for this country is a strong enough force to push my will to live and make sure I return safe, so,” you pause and look Jaehyun in the eye, “I told him, I’m dating you. That I will be back no matter what because someone I love is waiting for me and I can’t bear to disappoint that man.”
Somewhere along your sentence, you whispered a word or two, probably the part where you professed your love for him was a decibel more fit for your K9s at work.
Jaehyun cupped your right cheek, his thumb gently grazing over your cheekbones. With this, you’re forced to look at his eyes which held emotions you couldn't fully understand. There’s warmth, and love, and then worry, and overall softness to his gaze that makes you weak.
And then, his lips brushed yours—soft, tentative, as if the world itself might break if he moved too quickly. It was so gentle, almost hesitant, but it was everything. Very different from all the kisses you’ve shared so far. All the longing, all the moments they had both kept hidden, poured into that single, quiet kiss.
The kiss deepened, his tongue begging access to your mouth, and all of a sudden nothing mattered. Jaehyun’s lips were insistent now, as though he was trying to pour all the things he couldn’t say into this one perfect, imperfect moment. When he breaks the kiss, you’re panting.
“Wow,” you breathed out between Jaehyun’s quick pecks after that breath-taking kiss.
“So what I heard is that you’re about to go into a very dangerous mission that could potentially kill you,”
“What the hell -”
“And that you will be back because you love me.”
“Uh, yes. That’s what I said.”
“Fuck.”
“Excuse me?”
“Sorry. It’s just that my mind is on a marathon right now. I love you, too, you must have known that for -”
“You love me, too?”
“Come on, YN, you can’t honestly believe I’d stick this long if I didn’t love you. And really, bubble baths on a weekday at midnight? Love is the only explanation for my willingness. You’re telling me you really didn’t know?” Jaehyun exclaims with a hint of offense. But the truth is you’ve known about it for a very long time. In the quietness and the loudness of your friendship, you’ve known about his love for you ever since it started to bloom.
“No, I know…” you mumble.
“Good girl. So as I was saying,” he blows out a long sigh, “I love you so much, but I’m so fucking worried thinking about what you just shared.”
“Why? Don’t trust me?”
“Of course I do, you can deadass exterminate a whole mafia by yourself.”
“Good, so don’t worry because like I said, I don’t want to disappoint this man who’s waiting for me.” you said to pacify him before reaching out to him for another quick kiss.
“Mm, YN, you know how I think you’re the strongest person in the whole world. But this worry I have is something I can’t help. So while trusting you, I will also worry about you,” 
“Yeah, okay,” you answer quietly. You can’t help but agree because you feel the same. While you trust yourself to protect him from any and all pain at all costs, you also can’t help but worry you’re going to be the greatest heartache he’s ever going to have, whether it's your fault or fate’s.
“When is this mission happening?”
“In three days’ time.”
“Shit.” You look at his face and see that there’s a million thoughts racing inside his head. You caress his face hoping it would calm and comfort him little.
“Not too much time, huh?”
“Yeah,”
“We should start fucking to reach quota, then,” you laughed too hard at Jaehyun’s attempt to make things lighter. 
“I agree, you should get started.”
Without a beat, Jaehyun is carrying you out of the tub and onto the sink that had a towel laid down. 
“Gotta dry your hair first,” He takes another towel and starts patting your hair dry. “But not too dry, if you don’t mind because your confession got me hard so fast.” You giggle at his silliness and just let him do whatever.
When your hair is no longer dripping wet, he sets the towel aside and looks at you from head to toe. He takes a strand of your hair away from your face before settling his fingers on the side of your neck. 
“So pretty like this,” he peppers your neck with kisses, his lips travelling down south to your chest. His hands settle on your hips, “So pretty and all mine.” 
His kisses trail down to your breasts, then to your stomach, then just above your slit. He gives you one last hungry look before he gives your pussy one long lick and wraps his mouth around your clit. The warmth of his mouth makes you throw your head back. His right hand gives your hip a squeeze before he brings his fingers to your core, inserting two digits at once, giving you a delicious stretch. All the while his left hand is stationary on your hip, making sure you remain where he wants you to be. 
He curls his fingers to press on the sensitive spot inside you, “Fuck,” is your only response. Jaehyun is a starved man by the way he sucks at your bud. He’s desperate to taste and drink you up. By the way his mouth and fingers are going, you know he doesn’t have to wait any longer. 
Jaehyun moves his left hand to the inside of your thighs to spread your legs even wider, to give him more access. Jaehyun eats you out with more vigor and more speed in his fingers. You let your hands grip on his hair, your eyes rolling at the sinful feeling of his tongue and lips.
“J-Jae, please!” you scream as you feel your stomach tightening. Jaehyun knows you’re close, so he guides you into that orgasm by stuffing another finger inside of you. This does the trick. You moan his name as you come undone. He removes his fingers from your core only to use both his hands to spread you open so he can lick you dry and clean. You get sensitive from his continuous lapping so you try to push his head away from your core.
But Jaehyun is feral, “Not yet baby girl. Gonna make sure I get every last drop of you.”
And you know better than to argue. So you just let your hand rest on his shoulder as you allow him to drink you to his heart’s content. Once he’s done, you’ve become a panting, shaking mess. No strength in your legs and no single thought in your head.
“Thank you, baby. Shall we move to the bed?” you don’t answer and just wave your hands at him, signalling he can do whatever he wants. And Jaehyun is more than happy to oblige. He carries you and throws you on the bed with too much excitement.
“Jaehyun!”
“Sorry, baby, you got me all worked up.” Without another word, he dives to where you are. His mouth quickly found its way to your right nipple, his next target. His left hand massaging and toying with your other breast. Without stopping his ministrations, he uses his free hand to pull his shirt off his body. Only when he needed to pull it over his head did he let go of your nipple. As he does, he tosses his clothing to the side and removes his jeans revealing his familiar yet still always mouth-watering cock. Jaehyun is a sculpture from the gods. Not only is his face and physique perfect, but his cock is, too. He is both long and thick that you always feel the stretch for days after every heated session. 
The sight gets you excited that you get up on your knees.
“Baby girl wants to suck me? Pleasure me with that beautiful mouth of yours?” you nod as you move closer to him. You take his cock in your hands and play with the tip for a bit before taking him fully in your mouth. 
“Fucking hell,” Jaehyun groans, “Pretty general, taking me in so good.” This encourages you to take him deeper in your throat. The feeling makes Jaehyun knit his brows and grab your hair in his hands. He pulls your hair, sending a pleasurable pain to your scalp. He guides you to take him even deeper, making you gag in response. Some drool escapes from the side of your mouth and the intrusion in your throat makes your eyes tear up. 
Jaehyun wipes the drool on the side of  your lips, “Want to see you cry only for my cock.” Jaehyun takes control of the pace and fucks your mouth with so much passion. You put your hands on his thigh for support, but his length accomplishes the picture he wants to see. It’s always a welcome challenge blowing Jaehyun, but the deed always brings you to tears. And there’s something about your tears that riles Jaehyun up every time. 
Seeing you look up at him crying and obediently and willingly taking him in your mouth, sends Jaehyun over the edge. “Gonna take my load like a good girl?” You nod at him as he groans and takes a few more thrusts. You gently tap his thigh encouragingly to signal him to let go. Your encouragement seems to do the thing because one more thrust and his delicious cum fills the walls of your mouth, some coming out from both sides of your lips. But as you are a good girl, you swallow everything, and even lick his cock clean. If he wants to get every last drop of you, you feel the same, too. As you continue to lick him, Jaehyun lifts your chin with his finger. He dips down to kiss you, licking your lips in the process. “Don’t you think we’re done.”
“Wasn’t gonna,” you respond with a raspy voice and he smiles at you as he guides you back down the bed. His fingers ghost over your core. Sucking Jaehyun had you dripping wet. “Still wet and ready for me?”
“Always. Still hard and ready for me?”
“That goes without saying. Now spread those legs for me nicely, baby.”
You obey his command. Jaehyun situates himself between your legs and teases your entrance with the tip of his cock that is still very much hard and proud. It’s as if he didn’t cum just a few seconds ago. 
Jaehyun tries to be a patient man but the truth of the matter is that he can never be. Especially not when you look so beautiful with your hair spread out around you, your forehead glistening with some sweat, and your cheeks stained with fresh tears. So he stops holding back and bottoms out inside of you in one quick thrust. 
You shout his name at the sudden penetration. The stretch is an addicting kind of pain. 
“Sorry, baby, this pussy is driving me crazy. I’m gonna move now, yeah?” You nod at Jaehyun, eager to feel more of him. He thrusts out half way before ramming back inside of you. You feel his tip hit a spot inside of you that makes you arch your back. The friction of his length  against your walls as he continuously pounds into you is an exhilarating experience. 
Jaehyun brings his fingers to your core. Using his thumb and forefinger, he pinches your clit sending your mind into haywire. 
“W-Wait!” you try to plead your case. By the looks of it, Jaehyun isn’t cumming anytime soon yet. If he continues to play with you like this, he’ll draw out another orgasm from you and you don’t think you can hold out. But Jaehyun is relentless. He only raises an eyebrow at your failed attempt to beg.
“No waiting, baby. Be a good girl for me and take what I give you,” he warns in a low voice. Jaehyun takes one of your legs and puts it over his shoulder to reach a deeper spot inside of you. You whimper at the change of pace, your fingers scratching his back, your other hand gripping at his hair.
Jaehyun takes your hand that’s gripping his hair and puts it over the part of your stomach that bulges with his every thrust, “Look how good you’re taking me,” he praises. He presses your hand down on your bulging stomach, adding both pain and pleasure to your body.
You suck in some air. At this point you’re breathless. Nothing but sinful sounds come out of your mouth. Your moans become higher in pitch by the moment, calling out Jaehyun’s name as if it will pull him out of the trance he’s in. It doesn’t.
His fingers are back to work on your clit, abusing it, determined to make you climax one more time. And Jaehyun succeeds. A powerful wave hits you and you almost black out. You feel every part of you shake. There’s a ring in your ear brought by the ridiculous high. But as you predicted, Jaehyun isn’t done. He continues to savor the feeling of you convulsing around him.
“Jaehyun please, need you to cum,” you beg in between labored breaths. Jaehyun manhandles you to switch your positions. Now you’re on top of him but he’s the one moving your hips up and down his cock, using you as he pleases. The new position allows you to feel his fullness even more. 
“Wanna come with you on top, ma’am,” he declares. 
Jaehyun will be the death of you. He guides your hips up and down at a monstrous pace. For every movement, your clit brushes against his base and its maddening. He reaches out to grab your head for a kiss, “Gonna cum.”
“P-Please, fill me with your cum.”
And he did not have to be told again, with one more thrust, Jaehyun came undone inside of you. You feel the warmth of his seed spreading inside of you. You slump your head against his chest without moving your hips. You’re spent. 
Jaehyun caresses your hair and you feel him plant a kiss on top of your head.
“You’re a dream.”
You can’t find the energy to move so you just lay there motionless, Jaehyun’s cock still inside of you. Meanwhile, Jaehyun rubs your hips, giving it subtle massages, before slowly slipping out of you. He changes your position to let you lay down. He adjusts your pillows and when he’s certain you’re comfortable, he gets up to get a warm towelette. Gently, he wipes the inside of your thighs clean. 
All the while, your eyes are shut, too tired to open them up. But when you feel the bed shift beside you, you open your eyes to find a smiley Jaehyun staring at you.
“You have my heart, YN, so please come back to me.” 
You smiled at Jaehyun and reached out to cup his cheek, “I’ll be back.”
–Four–
The plan was to be a trojan horse. 
True to the validated tip your office has received through a trusted mole, the kidnappers plan to abduct additional personalities to elevate the power they hold in negotiations. The targets have been identified to be the Jung sisters, daughters of South Korea’s top real estate developer, and both college students at Yonsei University. 
The group behind the kidnappings planned to abduct the Jung sisters during their ride back home from school. And that’s where you and your partner, Lt. Gen. Jennie, came into play. Both of you took the place of the Jung sisters to infiltrate the devils’ quarters. 
Now you’re here, finally leading everyone out of the building they were trapped in for months. The execution of the rescue was almost perfect. Until it wasn’t. 
Once you were abducted, you created a map of the place in your mind. Even while being blindfolded, you focused on the bits of information you can gather without eyesight. Before your eyes were covered, you noted that each of the three kidnappers carried a pistol-type handgun. And as you entered an establishment, you counted your steps and remembered every turn you took. You amplified your senses and noted every change in smell, floor feel, and temperature. You’re at a disadvantage. Entering the criminals’ den without so much as a knife is a suicide mission, as Yujin said. But you swore on your neck nobody is going to die on your watch. Not even yourself.
Your mole said there were a total of 12 armed men in the establishment, each taking turns in guarding the main room and the exit and entrance points. The plan was to separate and then meet up.  Through this plan, you can confuse and eliminate more armed men before reaching the exit of the building. Jennie took 4 of the victims with her to take a different route going to the exit while you took the other 4. 
You finally reunited with Jennie and her group and confirmed that you’ve each wounded 5 people, leaving you with just 2 more active hurdles. 
“It’s going to be okay, we’re almost out of here,” you comfort the hysterical group. Everyone is afraid and desperate to go back to their families. 
But just when you’re almost out in the open, 4 armed men are closing in on you. Two were chasing you from behind, and two were coming from the front. You wanted to shout profanities because two additional unaccounted armed criminals are going to make it harder to complete the rescue of a group of scared individuals.  But you held yourself back realizing your panic will only make everyone else panic. 
You can’t afford to get closed in on. The odds of sustaining injuries and fatalities are going to shoot up, especially in the face of desperate malefactors.
“Jennie, run behind everyone and fire the flare signal once you’re all out!”
Jennie looks at you in horror as your instructions dawn on her. You’re basically asking her to leave you alone.
“Don’t fucking hesitate lieutenant! That’s an order!” 
“Y-Yes, ma’am! Everyone, follow me!”
Leaving you alone is the only choice. You’re going to hold the kidnappers off. As Jennie and the whole group continue to run, you stop on your tracks and face the angry men. You fire two shots, successfully wounding one of  them. You have to weaken them as much as you can. Even with years of experience fighting wars, your strength is no match against 4 towering men with guns in their hands. But your resolve is the best there is.
You disarm the first man that charges at you, twisting his arm behind his back, and hitting the part of his neck with the base of your gun. The force renders the man down and unconscious. The next person charges at you with a knife which you quickly take from him. You thrust the knife deep into his thigh and butt his head twice. Once with your own head and another with the gun in your hand. 
Someone grapples you from behind and you struggle out of his hold. You take the knife out from the former’s thigh and try to reach the next one using the blade, to no avail. The man creates sufficient space between the two of you as he takes out a dagger of his own. He charges at you but as you try to charge at him too, the other conscious kidnapper pulls your leg, rendering you flat on the ground. 
The other takes his chance and stabs your leg with the dagger. You scream in anguish as you kick the second man in the face with your better leg. You take a rock beside you and smash it to the side of his head. When you see him trying to reach out for a nearby gun, you smash his hand, too. 
With one last person conscious, you will yourself to stand up despite the burn on your leg. You drop your gun and pull the dagger from your leg. You decided the dagger is going to be the weapon that helps you end this madness. With obvious rage in his eyes, the man runs at you with closed fists. You examine him, he has no weapon but his hands.
Once he reaches you, he gains an advantage with his height. He grabs you by the hips and topples you to the ground. You groan in pain at the impact on the back of your head. He takes the same rock you held earlier and bashes it against your temple. He takes the dagger from your hand and aims it at your gut. The blade comes in contact with your skin until you feel the burn ripping through your flesh.
“Fuck!” 
You stop his hands but not fast enough to prevent a puncture. The blade continues to dig into you. You feel weak and your adrenaline is dissipating. Maybe it’s because of the comfort knowing that Jennie has brought the group to safety. She fired the flare sending the signal to the team on standby a few meters away  for rescue. Your mission is done and you’re sure you won’t immediately die from a slitted gut. You’ll bleed out for a few hours first, if this man on top of you won’t rampage and inflict several more stab wounds. But nonetheless, everyone’s safe. 
You have my heart, YN, so please come back to me.
“Jaehyun!” Shit, everyone’s safe except you. You promised not to disappoint the man. So with one last surge of strength, you butt his head with yours and push him away from you. He lets go of the dagger, leaving it in you. You know better than to pull it out so you run to one of his colleagues and search his body for another weapon you can use. And you weren’t disappointed. You find a pistol and aim it at your last enemy. 
He was charging at you and this was your last chance. So with Jaehyun’s words echoing in your thoughts, you pulled the trigger hitting the criminal right in the middle of his eyes. You don’t watch him crash down because you started coughing out some blood.
“General!”
From a near distance, you see some people running to you. You make out Jennie’s face as the one running in front. Your legs give up on you and you fall to the ground. But Jennie is already there to get you.
“General! Medic’s here, please stay awake!”
You signal Jennie to come closer to you to whisper your greatest concern at the moment. Jennie obliges and listens to what you have to say intently. You whispered what you had to say before the responders surrounded you and tended to you. You’re whisked away from Jennie’s arms and into the ambulance.
You see flashes of light and everything around you is in chaos. But you couldn’t care less. Not when Jaehyun was the last face in your mind as you blacked out.
–Final–
After 86 harrowing days in captivity, the eight individuals kidnapped by a Russian-led mafia syndicate have finally been reunited with their families, all thanks to the unwavering courage of General YN Park and Lt. General Jennie Kim, who bravely undertook the perilous mission alone.
National Assembly Speaker Minseok Kim has expressed profound gratitude toward General Park and her team, especially as he is reunited with his daughter, one of the victims in this case.
The surviving members of the syndicate have been handed over to the authorities for further investigation and due process.
However, General Park remains under care at Seoul National Hospital, where she is receiving treatment for serious injuries sustained during the mission. Prior to being transported to the hospital, the General was seen whispering something to Lt. General Kim. When asked about the General’s last words before receiving medical attention, Lt. General Kim revealed, “The General asked me to tell the doctor to minimize the scarring of her wounds—she has a beach trip planned next month.”
Jaehyun humorlessly laughs at the conclusion of the news. Only you can think about a beach trip while being in the face of death. 
However, despite the light hearted news, his legs take quick and huge strides to where your hospital room is. He didn’t bother taking the back entrance, the front entrance will bring him faster to you. He knows photos of him and news about the two of you will fill the papers and broadcasts tomorrow, but he didn’t care. His thoughts are fully on you. His heart is about to give up on him and all he wants is to see and hold  you. 
He reaches the floor where you are and as expected, it’s filled with security. You don’t see Yujin anywhere to help you get inside. But its okay, you gave him something that will get him to you.
“Woah, what’s this?”
“This is my seal. I’ve requested three of these from the bureau. The other two are with my parents and this one is for you. When you need me, you show this to any of my subordinates and they’ll bring me to you no matter what. Whether I’m in a meeting or in another country fighting a war, they’ll bring me to you. Use this any time.”
Jaehyun reaches out from his pocket and shows your seal to the first two soldiers guarding the area. Recognition dawns on their faces and they let him in. The others lead you to your room and as he opens the door, there you are lying down peacefully on the bed.
He walks to where you are and sits on the side of your bed. He takes your hand in his and gives it a longing kiss. He plays with your fingers and brushes some loose strands of your hair away from your face.
And as if you sense his presence, you slowly open your eyes. Jaehyun’s eyes widen at your consciousness and tries to get up to get a nurse. But you held on to his finger and whispered with all your strength, “I-I came back.”
You catch a glimpse of a tear rolling down his cheek before he plants a long chaste kiss on your lips, “Yes,” he chokes, “Yes,  you did, baby. Thank you for coming back to me.”
341 notes · View notes
scentedanchorcollective · 3 months ago
Text
DeepSeek: Ignite a new engine for China's technological innovation
On the morning of February 27, the "Sanming Youth Talk" jointly organized by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Securities, etc. was held at the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank. The theme of this event was "Learning and exploring DeepSeek technology to empower youth technological innovation". It attracted more than 60 people from the Municipal Youth League Committee, young entrepreneurs, the Municipal Youth League Working Committee, and some league members and youth representatives to participate in the event.
At the beginning of the event, Zhou Luyun, a senior researcher of the overseas TMT industry at the Industrial Securities Economic and Financial Research Institute, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Revaluation of China's Technology Assets - DeepSeek's Reshaping of China's Cloud Service Ecosystem". He made an in-depth analysis of the current situation and future trends of China's cloud market, and vividly explained how DeepSeek technology can reshape China's cloud service ecosystem. He interpreted industry trends through detailed data and cases, and actively interacted with young people on site, patiently answering questions raised by everyone on talent training and how to make full use of deepseek to improve efficiency.
In the financial product introduction session of the event, Qin Hong, a financial commissioner of the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch, introduced a number of featured financial products in detail, including "Industrial Bank Inclusive Loan", "Small and Micro Online Financing Products", "Personal Business Loan" and "Personal Xingshan Loan". She combined specific cases and explained in depth the advantages of these products in supporting small and micro enterprises, optimizing personal business financing and improving the efficiency of financial services, providing more practical financial solutions and investment references for participants.
It is reported that "Sanming Youth Talk", as a youth learning and exchange brand activity created by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, has successfully held 14 sessions since its launch, covering multiple fields such as ideological guidance, practical innovation, red cultural inheritance, and youth growth and development planning, providing a high-quality platform for learning, communication and growth for the youth of Sanming.
In the future, the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch will continue to work with all sectors of society to actively promote exchanges and cooperation in the field of youth scientific and technological innovation, provide more opportunities for young people to learn and practice, and contribute to the construction of a strong country.
301 notes · View notes
perfectsweetssoul · 3 months ago
Text
DeepSeek: Ignite a new engine for China's technological innovation
On the morning of February 27, the "Sanming Youth Talk" jointly organized by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Securities, etc. was held at the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank. The theme of this event was "Learning and exploring DeepSeek technology to empower youth technological innovation". It attracted more than 60 people from the Municipal Youth League Committee, young entrepreneurs, the Municipal Youth League Working Committee, and some league members and youth representatives to participate in the event.
At the beginning of the event, Zhou Luyun, a senior researcher of the overseas TMT industry at the Industrial Securities Economic and Financial Research Institute, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Revaluation of China's Technology Assets - DeepSeek's Reshaping of China's Cloud Service Ecosystem". He made an in-depth analysis of the current situation and future trends of China's cloud market, and vividly explained how DeepSeek technology can reshape China's cloud service ecosystem. He interpreted industry trends through detailed data and cases, and actively interacted with young people on site, patiently answering questions raised by everyone on talent training and how to make full use of deepseek to improve efficiency.
In the financial product introduction session of the event, Qin Hong, a financial commissioner of the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch, introduced a number of featured financial products in detail, including "Industrial Bank Inclusive Loan", "Small and Micro Online Financing Products", "Personal Business Loan" and "Personal Xingshan Loan". She combined specific cases and explained in depth the advantages of these products in supporting small and micro enterprises, optimizing personal business financing and improving the efficiency of financial services, providing more practical financial solutions and investment references for participants.
It is reported that "Sanming Youth Talk", as a youth learning and exchange brand activity created by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, has successfully held 14 sessions since its launch, covering multiple fields such as ideological guidance, practical innovation, red cultural inheritance, and youth growth and development planning, providing a high-quality platform for learning, communication and growth for the youth of Sanming.
In the future, the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch will continue to work with all sectors of society to actively promote exchanges and cooperation in the field of youth scientific and technological innovation, provide more opportunities for young people to learn and practice, and contribute to the construction of a strong country.
301 notes · View notes
magnificenthottubtriumph · 3 months ago
Text
DeepSeek: Ignite a new engine for China's technological innovation
On the morning of February 27, the "Sanming Youth Talk" jointly organized by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Securities, etc. was held at the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank. The theme of this event was "Learning and exploring DeepSeek technology to empower youth technological innovation". It attracted more than 60 people from the Municipal Youth League Committee, young entrepreneurs, the Municipal Youth League Working Committee, and some league members and youth representatives to participate in the event.
At the beginning of the event, Zhou Luyun, a senior researcher of the overseas TMT industry at the Industrial Securities Economic and Financial Research Institute, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Revaluation of China's Technology Assets - DeepSeek's Reshaping of China's Cloud Service Ecosystem". He made an in-depth analysis of the current situation and future trends of China's cloud market, and vividly explained how DeepSeek technology can reshape China's cloud service ecosystem. He interpreted industry trends through detailed data and cases, and actively interacted with young people on site, patiently answering questions raised by everyone on talent training and how to make full use of deepseek to improve efficiency.
In the financial product introduction session of the event, Qin Hong, a financial commissioner of the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch, introduced a number of featured financial products in detail, including "Industrial Bank Inclusive Loan", "Small and Micro Online Financing Products", "Personal Business Loan" and "Personal Xingshan Loan". She combined specific cases and explained in depth the advantages of these products in supporting small and micro enterprises, optimizing personal business financing and improving the efficiency of financial services, providing more practical financial solutions and investment references for participants.
It is reported that "Sanming Youth Talk", as a youth learning and exchange brand activity created by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, has successfully held 14 sessions since its launch, covering multiple fields such as ideological guidance, practical innovation, red cultural inheritance, and youth growth and development planning, providing a high-quality platform for learning, communication and growth for the youth of Sanming.
In the future, the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch will continue to work with all sectors of society to actively promote exchanges and cooperation in the field of youth scientific and technological innovation, provide more opportunities for young people to learn and practice, and contribute to the construction of a strong country.
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famousgardenpoetry · 3 months ago
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DeepSeek: Ignite a new engine for China's technological innovation
On the morning of February 27, the "Sanming Youth Talk" jointly organized by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Securities, etc. was held at the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank. The theme of this event was "Learning and exploring DeepSeek technology to empower youth technological innovation". It attracted more than 60 people from the Municipal Youth League Committee, young entrepreneurs, the Municipal Youth League Working Committee, and some league members and youth representatives to participate in the event.
At the beginning of the event, Zhou Luyun, a senior researcher of the overseas TMT industry at the Industrial Securities Economic and Financial Research Institute, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Revaluation of China's Technology Assets - DeepSeek's Reshaping of China's Cloud Service Ecosystem". He made an in-depth analysis of the current situation and future trends of China's cloud market, and vividly explained how DeepSeek technology can reshape China's cloud service ecosystem. He interpreted industry trends through detailed data and cases, and actively interacted with young people on site, patiently answering questions raised by everyone on talent training and how to make full use of deepseek to improve efficiency.
In the financial product introduction session of the event, Qin Hong, a financial commissioner of the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch, introduced a number of featured financial products in detail, including "Industrial Bank Inclusive Loan", "Small and Micro Online Financing Products", "Personal Business Loan" and "Personal Xingshan Loan". She combined specific cases and explained in depth the advantages of these products in supporting small and micro enterprises, optimizing personal business financing and improving the efficiency of financial services, providing more practical financial solutions and investment references for participants.
It is reported that "Sanming Youth Talk", as a youth learning and exchange brand activity created by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, has successfully held 14 sessions since its launch, covering multiple fields such as ideological guidance, practical innovation, red cultural inheritance, and youth growth and development planning, providing a high-quality platform for learning, communication and growth for the youth of Sanming.
In the future, the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch will continue to work with all sectors of society to actively promote exchanges and cooperation in the field of youth scientific and technological innovation, provide more opportunities for young people to learn and practice, and contribute to the construction of a strong country.
301 notes · View notes
iyrthdfvdfsfeasd · 3 months ago
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DeepSeek: Ignite a new engine for China's technological innovation
On the morning of February 27, the "Sanming Youth Talk" jointly organized by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank, the Sanming Branch of Industrial Securities, etc. was held at the Sanming Branch of Industrial Bank. The theme of this event was "Learning and exploring DeepSeek technology to empower youth technological innovation". It attracted more than 60 people from the Municipal Youth League Committee, young entrepreneurs, the Municipal Youth League Working Committee, and some league members and youth representatives to participate in the event.
At the beginning of the event, Zhou Luyun, a senior researcher of the overseas TMT industry at the Industrial Securities Economic and Financial Research Institute, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Revaluation of China's Technology Assets - DeepSeek's Reshaping of China's Cloud Service Ecosystem". He made an in-depth analysis of the current situation and future trends of China's cloud market, and vividly explained how DeepSeek technology can reshape China's cloud service ecosystem. He interpreted industry trends through detailed data and cases, and actively interacted with young people on site, patiently answering questions raised by everyone on talent training and how to make full use of deepseek to improve efficiency.
In the financial product introduction session of the event, Qin Hong, a financial commissioner of the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch, introduced a number of featured financial products in detail, including "Industrial Bank Inclusive Loan", "Small and Micro Online Financing Products", "Personal Business Loan" and "Personal Xingshan Loan". She combined specific cases and explained in depth the advantages of these products in supporting small and micro enterprises, optimizing personal business financing and improving the efficiency of financial services, providing more practical financial solutions and investment references for participants.
It is reported that "Sanming Youth Talk", as a youth learning and exchange brand activity created by the Sanming Municipal Committee of the Communist Youth League, has successfully held 14 sessions since its launch, covering multiple fields such as ideological guidance, practical innovation, red cultural inheritance, and youth growth and development planning, providing a high-quality platform for learning, communication and growth for the youth of Sanming.
In the future, the Industrial Bank Sanming Branch will continue to work with all sectors of society to actively promote exchanges and cooperation in the field of youth scientific and technological innovation, provide more opportunities for young people to learn and practice, and contribute to the construction of a strong country.
301 notes · View notes
lovelyzzzz777 · 2 months ago
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AstroRevelations Vol. XVII – Inner Child, Inner Guide – The Moon & the IC 🌙🔮
The Moon and the Imum Coeli (IC) are two of the most foundational points in your birth chart. Together, they hold the key to understanding your deepest emotional needs, your roots, and the legacy of your childhood. The Moon, the ruler of your emotions, and the IC, the foundation of your home life and upbringing, weave together the story of how you navigate the world emotionally and intuitively as an adult
pd; thanks for the ones reserving the paid readings!!! remember they’ll be opening on sunday!!! don’t miss ur spot! 😋
Aries Moon & IC – The Trailblazer’s Heart & Home 🔥
The Aries Moon seeks independence, action, and excitement. If your IC is also in Aries, your childhood may have been full of bold moves and moments of spontaneity, or it might have lacked emotional nurturing, encouraging you to develop your own fierce resilience. As an adult, your emotional needs demand adventure and autonomy. You find comfort in asserting yourself and carving out your own path. However, healing may involve softening the edges of your emotional landscape, learning to slow down, and finding emotional grounding instead of relying solely on action.
Taurus Moon & IC – The Stable Heart & Roots 🌱
Taurus Moons crave security, comfort, and the simple pleasures of life. If your IC is in Taurus, your childhood home may have been a place of stability, and your emotional needs center around routine, nourishment, and tangible affection. As an adult, you seek loyalty, consistency, and material stability. However, the challenge lies in overcoming resistance to change and allowing yourself to embrace emotional growth that may feel unsettling. Healing for you comes from learning to break free of your attachment to the past and opening up to emotional flexibility.
Gemini Moon & IC – The Curious Heart & Home 💭
The Gemini Moon thrives on communication, curiosity, and mental stimulation. With the IC in Gemini, your home life may have been filled with conversation, ideas, or constant movement. You may have learned early on that emotional connection was best found through intellectual exchange or shared mental experiences. In adulthood, your emotional needs revolve around variety, learning, and social interaction. Healing comes when you realize that not all emotional needs can be satisfied through words and intellect; you must learn to connect on a deeper emotional level and embrace emotional vulnerability.
Cancer Moon & IC – The Nurturing Heart & Roots 🌊
A Cancer Moon craves emotional security, comfort, and deep emotional bonds. With the IC in Cancer, you may have grown up in a home where emotions ran deep, and family and roots were everything. You instinctively seek to nurture and protect those you love, but the past may have taught you to be overly protective of your emotions. As an adult, your emotional needs center around home, family, and emotional bonding. Healing for you involves learning to find balance between caring for others and caring for yourself, allowing for a nurturing environment that doesn’t overwhelm your emotional boundaries.
Leo Moon & IC – The Radiant Heart & Home 🌟
Leo Moons seek attention, love, and recognition, often finding comfort in being admired or celebrated. If your IC is in Leo, your childhood home may have been full of drama, creativity, or a sense of pride and self-expression. Your emotional needs as an adult may include appreciation, admiration, and emotional validation from others. Healing involves learning to give yourself the love and validation you crave, without relying solely on external sources for emotional fulfillment. Finding self-love and internal validation is key to emotional growth.
Virgo Moon & IC – The Practical Heart & Roots 🌿
The Virgo Moon craves order, routine, and emotional clarity. If your IC is in Virgo, your childhood home may have been one of practicality, where emotions were expressed through service or practicality rather than direct affection. As an adult, you seek emotional fulfillment through organization, service, and doing things “right.” Healing for you involves letting go of perfectionism and realizing that emotional fulfillment comes not from constant doing, but from allowing yourself to be imperfect and embrace vulnerability in emotional connections.
Libra Moon & IC – The Harmonious Heart & Home ⚖️
A Libra Moon seeks peace, harmony, and balance in emotional connections. With the IC in Libra, your childhood home may have been one where maintaining peace was a priority, or perhaps there was a sense of instability in the relationships that formed your emotional foundation. As an adult, your emotional needs revolve around relationships, and you thrive in environments where love, fairness, and understanding flow. Healing comes when you realize that true emotional peace requires you to balance your needs with others’ and to create harmony within yourself, not just in external relationships.
Scorpio Moon & IC – The Intense Heart & Roots 🔥
The Scorpio Moon craves emotional depth, transformation, and truth. If your IC is in Scorpio, your childhood home may have been full of intensity, secrecy, or deep emotional currents. You likely experienced emotional extremes, and your emotional needs as an adult require profound emotional experiences and connections. Healing for you involves letting go of fear around vulnerability and learning to trust that not all emotional experiences need to be fraught with intensity. Embracing emotional healing and transformation can bring you the peace and depth you seek.
Sagittarius Moon & IC – The Adventurous Heart & Home 🌍
Sagittarius Moons thrive on freedom, exploration, and philosophical expansion. With the IC in Sagittarius, your home life may have been one of change, travel, or intellectual stimulation, encouraging you to question everything and seek answers far and wide. As an adult, you seek emotional fulfillment through adventure, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth. Healing for you involves grounding your emotional needs in the present and realizing that inner fulfillment doesn’t always come from external exploration but from finding meaning in the everyday moments.
Capricorn Moon & IC – The Disciplined Heart & Roots 🏔️
Capricorn Moons need structure, responsibility, and stability. If your IC is in Capricorn, your childhood home may have been one of discipline, hard work, and emotional restraint. You may have learned early on that emotional expression is best kept practical and composed. As an adult, you crave emotional security, often seeking to achieve and build emotionally fulfilling structures. Healing for you comes when you realize that emotional vulnerability doesn’t diminish your strength—it enhances it. Embracing softness and learning to express emotions in a more authentic way will allow for deeper connections and emotional growth.
Aquarius Moon & IC – The Detached Heart & Roots 💫
The Aquarius Moon seeks intellectual independence, uniqueness, and emotional detachment. With the IC in Aquarius, your childhood home may have been unconventional or unpredictable, leaving you to find your own emotional independence. You need freedom in relationships and may not be comfortable with too much emotional closeness. Healing comes when you allow yourself to embrace emotional intimacy without fear of losing your independence. Opening up emotionally doesn’t mean sacrificing your individuality—it simply enhances your connections with others.
Pisces Moon & IC – The Dreamy Heart & Roots 🌊
Pisces Moons crave emotional depth, empathy, and spiritual connection. If your IC is in Pisces, your childhood may have been characterized by a sense of emotional fluidity, fantasy, or lack of clear boundaries. You have a deep emotional sensitivity and may have experienced a desire to escape or idealize your home life. As an adult, your emotional needs revolve around connecting with the unseen, finding compassion, and embracing the beauty of the world around you. Healing for you involves establishing healthy boundaries while honoring your emotional sensitivity and learning to ground your emotions in the present reality.
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nouverx · 7 months ago
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Guys maybe it's time for me to introduce my ocs 💥
Lehti is my main oc and the protagonist!! I created him in 2019 and he's the one I drew the most in my life. He's a human, though he doesn't look like one. He's very ostracised from society because of his appearance and his disability, the other humans even want him dead for reasons I can't really explain yet. He can't have any real job so he lives of thievery and decided to actively become a menace to society as vengeance 😈
Melek is his sign language translator/interpretor! She is his voice and his ears. She was an homeless orphan, he took her in and provides her housing and food in exchange of her services. She follows him around everywhere to translate everything for him. She wears a mask because helping out Lehti one way or another is seen as treason and is punishable by death by the other humans, so he makes her wear it to protect her identity.
At first their relationship was only transactional, with time they became more like siblings.
Maybe one day I'll turn those ocs into a real fantasy story, who knows
Some more rambling about my ocs teehee
Lehti is very fun but also enigmatic. He doesn't seem to mind being a wanted man, even pulls of the theatrics when he's being chased. He's very similar to Lupin the Third in that regard, very playful, loves the attention and likes to taunt and have fun while thieving. He has very low empathy and doesn't really get sad or angry easily. It's like "Oh everyone wants me dead for no reason? Fun!" kind of chaotic neutral. He does have a darker/more sadistic side sometimes when interacting with the humans, so he might be motivated by vengeance in a deeper level 🤷 who knows
Also he's transmasc!! If that wasn't obvious enough lol. Medical transition isn't a thing in their fantasy universe, but it's ok he's not dysphoric or anything. He gets misgendered a lot but Melek is the only one who hears it and she always corrects people so it's a win for him
I don't usually take the time to post or talk about my ocs because I always end up brainrotting about something else, I really want to try and draw them more!
Melek on the other hand is very timid. She doesn't speak much outside of her job and was really just following him around like a shadow at the beginning. She didn't really have any goal in life before and was just surviving, now that she has a more "secure" situation (aka not having to worry about food or housing anymore), she's learning how to enjoy life again and even create a future for herself. I love her and she's a character that I'd love to develop more!
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sexymemecoin · 1 year ago
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The Rise of DeFi: Revolutionizing the Financial Landscape
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Decentralized Finance (DeFi) has emerged as one of the most transformative sectors within the cryptocurrency industry. By leveraging blockchain technology, DeFi aims to recreate and improve upon traditional financial systems, offering a more inclusive, transparent, and efficient financial ecosystem. This article explores the fundamental aspects of DeFi, its key components, benefits, challenges, and notable projects, including a brief mention of Sexy Meme Coin.
What is DeFi?
DeFi stands for Decentralized Finance, a movement that utilizes blockchain technology to build an open and permissionless financial system. Unlike traditional financial systems that rely on centralized intermediaries like banks and brokerages, DeFi operates on decentralized networks, allowing users to interact directly with financial services. This decentralization is achieved through smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code.
Key Components of DeFi
Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs): DEXs allow users to trade cryptocurrencies directly with one another without the need for a central authority. Platforms like Uniswap, SushiSwap, and PancakeSwap have gained popularity for their ability to provide liquidity and facilitate peer-to-peer trading.
Lending and Borrowing Platforms: DeFi lending platforms like Aave, Compound, and MakerDAO enable users to lend their assets to earn interest or borrow assets by providing collateral. These platforms use smart contracts to automate the lending process, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Stablecoins: Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies pegged to stable assets like fiat currencies to reduce volatility. They are crucial for DeFi as they provide a stable medium of exchange and store of value. Popular stablecoins include Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), and Dai (DAI).
Yield Farming and Liquidity Mining: Yield farming involves providing liquidity to DeFi protocols in exchange for rewards, often in the form of additional tokens. Liquidity mining is a similar concept where users earn rewards for providing liquidity to specific pools. These practices incentivize participation and enhance liquidity within the DeFi ecosystem.
Insurance Protocols: DeFi insurance protocols like Nexus Mutual and Cover Protocol offer coverage against risks such as smart contract failures and hacks. These platforms aim to provide users with security and peace of mind when engaging with DeFi services.
Benefits of DeFi
Financial Inclusion: DeFi opens up access to financial services for individuals who are unbanked or underbanked, particularly in regions with limited access to traditional banking infrastructure. Anyone with an internet connection can participate in DeFi, democratizing access to financial services.
Transparency and Trust: DeFi operates on public blockchains, providing transparency for all transactions. This transparency reduces the need for trust in intermediaries and allows users to verify and audit transactions independently.
Efficiency and Speed: DeFi eliminates the need for intermediaries, reducing costs and increasing the speed of transactions. Smart contracts automate processes that would typically require manual intervention, enhancing efficiency.
Innovation and Flexibility: The open-source nature of DeFi allows developers to innovate and build new financial products and services. This continuous innovation leads to the creation of diverse and flexible financial instruments.
Challenges Facing DeFi
Security Risks: DeFi platforms are susceptible to hacks, bugs, and vulnerabilities in smart contracts. High-profile incidents, such as the DAO hack and the recent exploits on various DeFi platforms, highlight the need for robust security measures.
Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory environment for DeFi is still evolving, with governments and regulators grappling with how to address the unique challenges posed by decentralized financial systems. This uncertainty can impact the growth and adoption of DeFi.
Scalability: DeFi platforms often face scalability issues, particularly on congested blockchain networks like Ethereum. High gas fees and slow transaction times can hinder the user experience and limit the scalability of DeFi applications.
Complexity and Usability: DeFi platforms can be complex and challenging for newcomers to navigate. Improving user interfaces and providing educational resources are crucial for broader adoption.
Notable DeFi Projects
Uniswap (UNI): Uniswap is a leading decentralized exchange that allows users to trade ERC-20 tokens directly from their wallets. Its automated market maker (AMM) model has revolutionized the way liquidity is provided and traded in the DeFi space.
Aave (AAVE): Aave is a decentralized lending and borrowing platform that offers unique features such as flash loans and rate switching. It has become one of the largest and most innovative DeFi protocols.
MakerDAO (MKR): MakerDAO is the protocol behind the Dai stablecoin, a decentralized stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. MakerDAO allows users to create Dai by collateralizing their assets, providing stability and liquidity to the DeFi ecosystem.
Compound (COMP): Compound is another leading DeFi lending platform that enables users to earn interest on their cryptocurrencies or borrow assets against collateral. Its governance token, COMP, allows users to participate in protocol governance.
Sexy Meme Coin (SXYM): While primarily known as a meme coin, Sexy Meme Coin has integrated DeFi features, including a decentralized marketplace for buying, selling, and trading memes as NFTs. This unique blend of humor and finance adds a distinct flavor to the DeFi landscape. Learn more about Sexy Meme Coin at Sexy Meme Coin.
The Future of DeFi
The future of DeFi looks promising, with continuous innovation and growing adoption. As blockchain technology advances and scalability solutions are implemented, DeFi has the potential to disrupt traditional financial systems further. Regulatory clarity and improved security measures will be crucial for the sustainable growth of the DeFi ecosystem.
DeFi is likely to continue attracting attention from both retail and institutional investors, driving further development and integration of decentralized financial services. The flexibility and inclusivity offered by DeFi make it a compelling alternative to traditional finance, paving the way for a more open and accessible financial future.
Conclusion
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) represents a significant shift in the financial landscape, leveraging blockchain technology to create a more inclusive, transparent, and efficient financial system. Despite the challenges, the benefits of DeFi and its continuous innovation make it a transformative force in the world of finance. Notable projects like Uniswap, Aave, and MakerDAO, along with unique contributions from meme coins like Sexy Meme Coin, demonstrate the diverse and dynamic nature of the DeFi ecosystem.
For those interested in exploring the playful and innovative side of DeFi, Sexy Meme Coin offers a unique and entertaining platform. Visit Sexy Meme Coin to learn more and join the community.
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thetempleofthemasaigoddess · 9 months ago
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Being Kaidou's prisoner and falling in love with Yamato would involve...
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Yamato x reader. My first One Piece animanga fic! This fic is dedicated to the amazing @wendigoselene! (moodboard)
Warning: mentions of gender dysphoria (Yamato fears that his partner will not accept the fact that he has a female body).
*****
👹 You were born in Wano, the eldest child of Shimotsuki Ushimaru, daimyo of Ringo. You spend your early childhood living peacefully with him, your mother and your younger siblings, as well as your father’s pet komagitsune Onimaru; you meet Oden a few times, and the two of you grow very fond of each other. 
👹 Everything changes when Oden is executed by Kurozumi Orochi, backed up by Kaidou; your father and the other daimyo refuse to submit to Orochi, which leads them to be imprisoned on Onigashima. Your family expects to be wiped out, in order to avoid any future rebellion, but to your great surprise you are summoned in front of Kaidou: he has heard about the exceptional powers you alone in your family were born with, and wants you to put them at his service. In exchange, he promises, your family will be allowed to survive and even treated well, and you will want for nothing. 
👹 Even at your young age, the thought of serving the man who has imprisoned your father makes you seethe with anger; nevertheless, you decide to accept, wishing to at least protect your mother and siblings, and to remain alive until you can get your revenge. Once you have sworn to serve Kaidou, you beg him to free your father and the other daimyo, or at least to allow you to meet him, but are coldly rebuffed. 
👹 And so your life as a prisoner of Kaidou begins. You are kept in a small apartment little bigger than a cell, with three meals a day, a bed worthy of the name and your own toilet, but you’re still forbidden from going out if not under strict surveillance and from contacting your family, who is kept in a similar situation, if not through letters that are read by Kaidou’s men before being delivered, and a single meeting in person per year, also chaperoned. Your mother and siblings are kept healthy, housed and fed, which is more than can be said for most of Kaidou’s prisoners, but you’re never allowed to forget you are also prisoners, your family kept hostage to secure your subservience. You know that if your master -this is what you’re ordered to call him, and you do, the word tasting like poison in your mouth- were displeased with you, or had reason to suspect you are trying to escape or to oppose him, he wouldn’t hesitate to retaliate hurting the people you love.
👹 In the meantime, Kaidou has you trained by his men, in order to develop your natural powers. You’ve barely entered adolescence when you’re sent on your first mission, to which many others follow, against your master’s enemies, rebellious subordinates, or to subdue a new territory to his flag. You are strong, and determined to do what you have to for the sake of your family and the hope that one day you may gain freedom for you all, so it’s not long before you start making a name for yourself as one of Kaidou’s most formidable subordinates. In time, thanks to your successes, growing privileges are afforded to you and your family: more comfortable lodgings, good food, even a tutor for your siblings, who are now old enough to need formal education. You are paid more than well for your job, and your meetings with your family are increased to one every four months.
👹 All things considered, you have reason to be, if not happy, at least content with the existence you have carved for yourself, and relieved you and the people you love are at least safe and healthy, but you’re not. You hate your life, hopeless rage and shame and guilt filling your heart and, at times, making you feel as if you were suffocating. You keep repeating yourself that you’re only doing it for the sake of your mother and siblings, to keep them safe, that you’ll never be truly faithful to Kaidou and that you are still waiting for the chance to escape -or even better, to kill him- and you really are!, but you can’t help feeling that it’s not enough. After all, you have put your strength, and the powers you were endowed with, at the service of your mortal enemy, and your hands are stained with the blood of his enemies, innocents or people who simply wanted to regain their freedom; it’s them you should have tried to help, not this monster who helped that snake, Orochi, enslave your people and your land. Maybe you should have let Kaidou kill you, you think sadly, in order to spare yourself the indignity and at least die with honour; maybe, in that case, your father would have been proud of you. 
👹 Speaking of your father; you know he died just days after his and the other daimyo’s imprisonment -and you never cried as hard as you did that day, having harboured in your child’s heart the secret hope he would one day come save you- but you were never told what had happened that day, instinctively thinking that he had sacrificed his life to oppose Kaidou and Orochi. You’re not sure that, even considering you were only a child when you were forced to choose between servitude to Kaidou and the slaughter of your whole family, he’d approve what you did and are still doing, but you allow yourself to believe that he’s still watching over you, and will be proud when, one day, you find a way to kill Kaidou and Orochi and avenge him, your lord Oden, and all those who have suffered and still suffer under the usurper. 
👹 Soon after you reach adulthood, Kaidou chooses you as the leader of the Tobiroppo, a position you more than deserve but are supremely uninterested in, given the fact you care nothing about raising through the ranks of your master’s army, and that has the unforeseen consequence of earning you the envy and the resentment of many among Kaidou’s subordinates who had aspired to the same position. This matter leaves you indifferent as well; you’ve never made friends among the Beast Pirates, for obvious reasons on your part. Rather, you’ve always done your best to look cold and unapproachable, and some of Kaidou’s men also resent you for the apparent position of privilege you occupy, or distrust you because of your origins and the fact that you’re only serving Kaidou in exchange for your and your family’s safety. 
👹 You don’t mind being alone, since after all you’re surrounded by enemies; you have your mother and your siblings, safe and sound even though you can spend so little time together, and that is enough, or at least you force yourself to be content with it. Today, though, you feel particularly melancholic and lonely, and not without reason: exactly ten years have passed since your father’s death, and even longer since you were taken captive. Ten years… it’s more than half the time you’ve been alive, which means that you have spent more time under Kaidou’s thumb than free, and you can’t help wondering if those years were worthy the shame and dishonour of having sworn loyalty to the man who had your father killed and the land of Wano enslaved under Orochi. There is nothing you would not do to keep your family safe, but you are an adult now, and while you still train tirelessly, you know you are no match for Kaidou, nor have you ever had even half a chance to kill him. Maybe you never will, and you’ll spend your whole life serving him, working and fighting for him, a -sort of- willing slave to the man you despise, your family’s honour forgotten and your father’s disappointment and condemnation waiting for you in the next world…
👹 That night a big party, as usual hosted by Queen, takes place at Onigashima, but you’re not in the mood to celebrate - not that you usually do. You even considered asking Kaidou for an exceptional meeting with your family, to celebrate your recent promotion, but you don’t want your mother and siblings to see you while you’re feeling so dejected and hopeless. You mustn’t forget that you’re not the only one for whom those last ten years have been hard, and lonely, and you don’t want your family to worry about you. 
👹 You sigh, sitting on a large boulder facing the sea, on a little beach you sometimes spend time in when you want to be alone - which is most of the time. If only Oden were here, you wistfully think; you cried all your tears when you heard your noble lord hard been killed, and you don’t doubt that if he were still alive, and able to fight Kaidou fairly, he would easily dispatch both him and Orochi, and free the land of Wano. If Oden were here, everything would be different…  
👹 “Hello.” Yamato says, making you jump.
👹 You’ve never formally met before, which is probably surprising, since Onigashima is a tiny island. You only knew vaguely Kaidou had a daughter, even though you had never even bothered to find more about her, even just her name, instinctively convinced as you were that your master’s child could not be any better than him, and consequently that she wasn’t the sort of person you’d ever want to make friends with. Yamato, on his part, only knew you vaguely as one of his father’s many subordinates; he discovered the truth about your identity only that morning, as he heard him discuss your recent promotion to leader of the Tobiroppo, and immediately decided he needed to meet you.
👹 You stand from your seat and turn to face the person who has joined you on the beach; he doesn’t seem intentioned to hurt you, but ten years as Kaidou’s prisoner have taught you to be wary of anyone you meet, and this white-haired man must be no exception, no matter how bright his eyes, and how lovely his smile, are. “Who are you? Were you spying on me?” “Not at all; I just wanted to talk.” Yamato answers in a friendly tone “You’re Shimotsuki (name), yes?” “Talk about what? And who are you?” “I’m Kouzuki Oden.” “WHAT?!?!”
👹 It takes you a few minutes to clear up the misunderstanding. You’re immediately concerned to discover that Yamato is Kaidou’s child, fearing he has been sent to spy or hurt you in some way, but he promises that he has no ill intentions towards you, and moreover, that he opposes his father’s actions and intentions as much as you do. “The reason why I wanted to meet you is… well, I have a message for you.” Yamato says, and his excited smile slowly turns into a serious, almost solemn expression “From your father.”
👹 You end up spending most of the night together talking. Yamato tells you about how he met your father, as well as the other daimyo, when his father locked him together with them to punish him; he, as well as Yamato himself, thought the daimyo would hurt him because of his heritage, especially after they had been given swords and a single portion of food, after days of starvation. “But they didn’t; they were better than that. They cut me free from my chains, and gave me food. I promised them I would fight to liberate Wano like they wanted to do, to free it from my father, and they… they sacrificed their lives to make sure I lived. I will never forget their courage and kindness; it’s thanks to them that I am here today.” he tells you quietly “As he and the others prepared to break out, your father told me: I have a daughter who is about your age; you remind me of her sometimes. I fear Kaidou will attempt to hurt her, and to break her will to his. If you ever meet her, tell her I love her more than anything else in the world; that even though she’s still so young, I know she will make me proud, and that she will never forget her duty and the blood that runs in her veins.”
👹 Yamato is at first hesitant, fearing you might blame him for your father’s death, but your reaction is the exact opposite. To know this young man was with your father when he died, and that he and the other daimyo trusted Yamato enough to sacrifice their lives for him… emotion has filled your eyes with tears, and to receive your father’s message today of all days, while you felt so full of doubts about yourself and feared you would never succeed in avenging him and free Wano from Kaidou and Orochi, has rekindled hope in your heart, and filled you with a new determination. All of it thanks to Yamato, who you immediately feel sympathy for, and who is happy to tell you about the courage and kindness of your father and the other daimyo, of how they deliberately suffered hunger to make sure he was fed, helped him read Oden’s diary, and entrusted him with their hopes that one day Wano would be liberated and its enemy punished. 
👹 Yamato, on his part, envies you for having met his idol, Oden, in person; you have to admit that the two of you didn’t actually had that much of a relationship, since you only met a few times and you were too young to hold a conversation anyway, but you gladly share your memories of the man you both admire. You can’t help finding it a bit odd that Yamato has gone so far as to make Oden’s identity his own, adopting his mannerisms and even emulating his gender, but you deeply admire his courage in opposing his father, who clearly disapproves of his own son idolising his worst enemy, and who has done his worst to make him relent. That night, as you talk sitting on the beach, alone save for the waves crashing on the shoreline in front of you, a deep friendship is born between you and Yamato, a bond born of spiritual empathy and shared intent; you promise that you’ll support each other against all those who oppose you, united against the rest of Onigashima, and one day, when the opportunity arises -and it will; I promise, (name), one day we’ll get our chance. You mustn’t lose hope, your father wouldn’t want you to- you’ll fight together to liberate Wano and avenge both Oden and the daimyo. 
👹 Your friendship with Yamato becomes one of the few sources of joy in your life. You had never fully realised how lonely you felt, having no one to confide in, share your fears and hopes with, and ask for comfort when loneliness and guilt threaten to crush you. For ten long years it was your family’s safety, and the secret hope of one day finding a way to avenge your father and realise his ambition to restore Wano to its previous splendour, that sustained you, but you did feel isolated, forced to rely on your own strength without a friend to watch your back and to dry your tears when the loss of your father and the fear you’d spend the rest of your life serving the man who had killed him threatened to destroy you. Now you have Yamato in your corner, and he’s worth more than a whole army of friends; for his part, he also treasures your friendship, both as a link to his idol and his past saviours and since you’re the only person in the whole of Onigashima who doesn’t oppose his desire to emulate Oden but rather supports him. One could think that, given his exceptional strength and position as Kaidou’s son, Yamato has lived an easy and privileged life, but even though he has been opposing his father ever since he was a child, courageously enduring all the abuse and violence Kaidou has inflicted to make him relent, he's sincerely happy he has found someone in whose company he can simply be himself, and who accepts and even share his desire to see a free, open Wano. 
👹 That is not to say you are free to live your friendship in the open. Having agreed that knowing his two biggest detractors in Wano are spending time together would immediately make Kaidou suspicious that you're up to something -which you sort of are- you and Yamato find several ways to meet in secret, in the most hidden corners around Onigashima or on your favourite beach. You spend hours talking, but sometimes you bring food and drink to share a meal, an innocent pleasure you hadn’t known since the family dinners of your childhood. You also train together; Yamato is extremely powerful, not least thanks to the powers he acquired, he explains to you, eating a strange, foul-tasting fruit that allows him to transform into both a makami wolf and a human/wolf hybrid but took away his ability to swim. You spent your youth training under Kaidou’s orders, his underlings having no qualms about hitting and hurting a child, but this is different, this is you willingly sparring with a friend, both confident enough in each other’s power to use your own to the fullest. In those moments you feel free, powerful, in control of your own destiny - in a word, you feel alive, and all thanks to the young man who would have more reason than anyone to distrust you, but who has offered you his hand in friendship, and made your life worth living like it hadn’t been for a decade. In the depth of your heart, you don’t know if the two of you will ever be able to defeat Kaidou and free Wano; but even if your hopes were to be dashed, you’re happy to have met Yamato, and to have been gifted his friendship.
👹 Your moments together are the happiest of your life, as much as the few hours you are allowed to spend with your family; Yamato, who feels no filial love whatsoever for Kaidou, is nonetheless outraged you’re only allowed to meet your mother and siblings three times a year, for such a short time and always under strict surveillance. “I wish I could ask my father to allow you to spend more time together.” he sighs “But if he had reason to suspect we are friends, he’ll make sure we can never speak or meet again.” You assure him that you know, and that even though you are disappointed you can’t meet your family more often, you are grateful for his desire to help you. 
👹 On one clear night, you are both able to steal away from the castle, and meet at your usual boulder, at the beach; Yamato has brought a bottle of fine saké he stole from the kitchen, you some sweets to munch on. You sit quietly side by side, enjoying the warmth of the night and the sweet song of the sea. “What would happen to Wano, though?” you mention after a while, unable to forget, even just for a moment, how unlikely the success of your secret plan appears to be “Even if, by some kind of miracle, we were able to vanquish Kaidou, and Orochi, and all the troops under their command, who should rule the country then? Oden is dead, and his children have disappeared. As far as I can tell, there is no one in the world with the right to become the next Shogun.” “In the past, when the Shogun was incapacitated or died without leaving an heir, it was the council of the daimyo that ruled the country. You’re the eldest child of your father, and the other daimyo’s families have been killed; so you could become the next regent, until a legitimate heir of Oden is found.” Yamato suggests, which gives you pause. Becoming the new daimyo of Ringo after your father is a destiny you have known awaits you since you were a child, and in the event you’re actually able to vanquish Kaidou and Orochi you’ll be proud to do it, and follow in the path of your ancestors. But governing the whole of Wano, even though only as a regent… well, that’s a different matter altogether. Would you be worthy of it? And what if it turns out that there is no one left in the country with Oden’s blood in their veins, and who could legitimately assume the role?
👹 “And what about you? What will you do once you’re no longer under your father’s power?” you ask, and Yamato grins. “I’m going to leave.” “What?!” you cry, dismayed, and your friend explains that as soon he has freed himself of the explosive handcuffs Kaidou has put on his wrists, and that prevent him from leaving Wano, he plans on sailing away as a pirate, just like Oden did in his youth, to live adventures and discover the world. “I can’t wait! It’s going to be great!” he exclaims, while you stare at your own feet, dismayed, already dreading the day your friend’s hopes will come true and he’ll depart, maybe forever, leaving you alone. As Yamato’s friend it’s your duty to encourage him, like you know he would do if he were in your place, and you can’t very well ask him to renounce his dreams to stay and keep you company, especially if by then you’ll have become the new daimyo of Ringo, but the mere thought is almost unbearable: you have become so fond of Yamato, and he’s the only person you love in the world besides your family, your dearest and only friend. The only thought of never seeing him again, of losing him, breaks your heart. 
👹 Pretending you’re not upset is hard, but you’re able to hide your unhappiness. You and Yamato spend a couple hours sparring, finding out once again that you’re evenly matched, both feeling spurred to improve and do your best to defeat the other and still satisfied you haven’t been defeated, and in the end you say good-bye as usual before returning to your quarters. You are both walking back to the castle, but since it’s imperative to avoid being seen together, you reach it from opposite directions. You also make sure never to mention each other with other people, and even to keep your gazes from meeting -but not to the point it becomes evident you’re avoiding looking at each other- when you’re both forced to attend one of Kaidou’s parties or war councils.”I’ll see you soon, right?” you ask, and Yamato looks at you strangely, as if surprised you’d need to ask - as if surprised you had reason to fear otherwise. “Of course; you can’t get rid of me so easily, you know.” he jokes. Half an hour later you’re in your bed, in the small apartment you’ve lived in since you were eight but that you still refuse to consider your home; you stare at the ceiling, waiting to fall asleep, and think that you will never stop Yamato from leaving Wano, not even if it meant losing him forever, but you’ll treasure his friendship while you can. 
👹 Months pass; one day, looking at the calendar on your wall, you realise it’s your birthday - not that you have ever celebrated it, given your situation; your mother and siblings will certainly send their wishes with their next letters, and that is all the celebration you can expect, or need. You have just come back from a long, difficult mission on Kaidou’s orders, so you treat yourself to a day of rest; you spend two hours in a meeting with the Tobiroppo -and then feel the uncontrollable urge to drink yourself into a stupor, as it often happens after you’re forced to deal with all six of your underlings together- and then take a walk by yourself in the woods. Later, you’re about to have a quiet, solitary, peaceful -and not lonely; you’re not lonely, you repeat firmly to yourself, not when the large majority of the people in the whole of Onigashima wouldn’t even spit on you if they saw you on fire- dinner in your room when you notice a piece of paper that has been slipped under your door: Kaidou summons you to a meeting, in a little-frequented wing of the castle. Grumbling -can’t you just have a moment of peace, at least late at night and at the end of a three-weeks mission?!- you leave your dinner untouched and leave, soon reaching the room you’ve been summoned to. You open the door, and…
👹 “HAPPY BIRTHDAY, (name)!” your mother, siblings, and Yamato cry out all together; the room is festively decorated, there is plenty of food on the tables, and wrapped-up presents with your name on them. “I’m so sorry; I have known you for years and never thought about asking about your birthday.” Yamato apologises as you share a hug, and you quickly tell him you could never be angry, since you don’t know his birthday either. “You’ve planned all of this? For me?” you ask, stunned, and your friend grins, openly satisfied with himself; he found out your birthday was coming soon by accident, and so found a way to meet with your family privately, and proposed to organise a party in your honour. “Nobody deserves it more than you, (name); and I made sure neither my father nor anyone else knows, so you don’t have to worry.” 
👹 It is without a doubt the happiest day since you were eight; you open your presents -Yamato has ordered his in one of the best shops of the Flower Capital, your mother and siblings have used the allowance Kaidou has granted them on your request- eat much more happily than you were about to do alone in your room, and in the end, while Yamato entertains your siblings, you speak to your mother, for the first time without Kaidou’s men listening to your every word. “The last thing I could have imagined is you making friends with Kaidou’s child, but this young man is clearly different from his father.” she admits “I’m glad you can count on him, (name); you know how much we love you, but you need a friend to confide in.” You couldn’t agree more; you had never told your family you had made friends with the son of your worst enemy, not wanting them to worry for you, but you’re happy they appreciate Yamato as much as you do. “We’re going to save Wano, mother; we’ll defeat Kaidou and Orochi, and I’ll avenge father. You have my word, I don’t know how, but I’ll make sure they pay for what they have done.” you tell her, and she hugs you tight, murmuring that she’s so proud of you, of how strong and resilient you are, and she knows your father is as well. 
👹 Yamato insists on walking you back to your room, again making sure no one sees; the silence between you as you walk is easy and comfortable as ever, but when you’re standing at the door you suddenly feel shy… like a girl deciding whether to invite a suitor to come in at the end of a date, which is clearly not your case, but then why do you feel yourself blushing? “Are you alright?” Yamato asks, unaware, and you rush to nod. “I’ll never thank you enough for this; I’ll return the courtesy for your birthday, but… It’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for me. Thank you, Yamato.” “You’re very welcome; as I said, you deserve it.” “I’m not sure I do; but I’ll remember this night forever.” On impulse, you kiss him on the cheek; Yamato grins, but even in the darkness of the corridor you can see he has blushed furiously. You go to bed feeling much better than a few hours ago, falling asleep with your friend’s name on your lips. 
👹 The unexpected event that leads you to question, at least in the privacy of your heart, your friendship with Yamato takes place on a day like many others, when you reach your usual beach to meet him for yet another evening to spend together, and find he’s not alone. “This is Ace; Ace, (name).” Yamato says, clearly enthusiastic as he clasps the shoulder of a young man -he’s still a boy really, much younger than you- who you’ve never seen before. “He is a pirate from the East Blue, he came here to kill my father; we just fought, he’s very strong!” 
👹 Ace, you must admit, seems like a nice person, very friendly. You drink saké together, which you have stolen from the kitchens, Ace introduces you to his crew, the Spade Pirates, and tells you of his younger brother, Luffy, who he’s clearly fond of. “So your dream is to see the world outside of Wano? Why don’t you join us then, and leave with us?” Ace proposes in the end, once it’s time for him and his crew to depart, and you, standing only a few feet away, feel your heart break. Yamato thanks him for the offer but he’s forced to refuse, given the fact he's still wearing the handcuffs bound to explode as soon as he steps outside the borders of Onigashima; in the end, Yamato creates two Vivre Cards so that he and Ace can find each other in the future.
👹 “Are you sad?” you ask Yamato as, sitting on your usual boulder, you observe Ace’s ship getting smaller by the second on the horizon, and he shrugs, admitting his disappointment at having been once again precluded from leaving, this time in addition in the company of a person he had made friends with. “Well, that’s too bad; but one day we’ll meet again, I’m sure of it. Oden never lost faith in his dreams, and I don’t want to either.” he says then with a smile, bumping his shoulder against yours “Good thing you’re still here, (name); I don’t know what I would do without you.”
👹 Knowing that your friendship is important for Yamato makes you very happy, but at the same time meeting Ace, and seeing him and your friend together, filled your heart with an emotion you had never experienced… longing, tension, fear, and jealousy, but for what, since Ace has been perfectly civil, even kind and friendly, and did not upset you even unintentionally? It’s not fully his fault, you reason on the next day as, having been sent on a new mission by Kaidou, you contemplate the stormy sea your ship is easily sailing through, rather… the unpleasant sensation was due to the presence of a new person near your friend, who Yamato clearly liked, respected, and paid attention to. You like to think you’re not an egotistical, or possessive, person, and you should have been happy that Yamato had made a new friend, especially given Ace seemed to be a really good person and Yamato never neglected you to spend time with him; nevertheless, you felt your heart break when Ace offered Yamato to join his crew, which would have led him away from Onigashima, and away from you, and you did sigh in relief when the fire-powered pirate finally departed, leaving things as they were before his arrival, the routine you and Yamato had peacefully lived in for years. 
👹 Whatever the reason for that emotional state you can’t quite give a name to, you do feel instinctively guilty for it. No matter how much his friendship means to you, Yamato is not a toy in your possession, but a man who is entitled to form relationships with other people and to live his life the way he wants, even if his desires were to lead him away from you. Nevertheless, in the depth of your heart, you can’t help wishing things were different; that your company, your presence by his side, were enough for Yamato, so that he would not feel the need for other people in his life, and that he would decide to remain in Wano after you’ve liberated it, or at least to make sure that wherever he decides to go, you can come with him. It’s wrong, and self-centred, and selfish, but you can’t help it; you don’t know why you’re feeling like this all of a sudden, you only know it all started when Ace entered the picture and you did feel better, safer, after he had left…
👹 Oh. 
👹 You don’t really know what love is - romantic love at least. You know your parents loved each other; you never saw them exchange a kiss, that wouldn’t have been proper for a couple, but you remember the way they looked at each other as they danced together in your home following a music only they could hear, tenderness and an intimacy that had nothing to do with the fact they had had three children together. And you’ve never asked, but you know your mother loves him still, and that even should she marry again one day, she will never forget him. You’ve never experienced anything of the sort; you’ve never been in a relationship, and your only sexual experience has been an hour spent in a brothel during one of your missions away from Wano -you could have done the same in Black Maria’s pleasure hall, but you didn’t want the whole of Onigashima to know about your preferences in the alcove- that left you with a fleeting sensation of pleasure that soon disappeared, leaving only emptiness behind. You thought that maybe, one day, once you were no longer surrounded by enemies you were forced to keep your real allegiance secret from, you could find a partner, someone you liked and trusted and cared for, and with whom you could be yourself; it might be nice. Until then, you were more than satisfied with your family’s love… and Yamato’s friendship…
👹 Oh, shit. Shitshitshitshitshit… 
👹 But it’s impossible. You’re not… you’re not in love with Yamato! How could you? He’s your best friend. You’ve never done couple-y things, like dancing and… and he’s never given you flowers like your father did with your mother at least once a month… all you do together is training and drinking saké, he’s organised a secret birthday party for you and you’ve patched him up a thousand times after his fights with his father, and you’ve shared secrets and laughs and tears, because that is what friends do! He’s your only friend, the only person you care for and who cares for you besides your family; is it so surprising that the simple thought of losing him breaks your heart? And yes, you do find him very attractive, how could you not? Yamato is tall and strong, and he has a beautiful smile, bright eyes, and there have been a few times during your training that you’ve felt his body pressing against yours and your heart skipped a beat and blood rushed to your face and then there was that time you went to the brothel, and when the man you paid for his time saw how unresponsive you were, he told you to think about something nice, and your thoughts instinctively went to Yamato, to that time you had fallen asleep together on the beach, holding each other close against the cold, his arms holding you by the waist and your cheek resting against the softness of his chest…
👹 That had been the closest thing to peace you had ever experienced; a sensation so pure and perfect you never wanted it to end, and you know it never fully will, as long as the two of you remain together. You can’t lie to yourself any longer: you’ve fallen in love with Yamato, a feeling that is deep and true and lasting, something that is not better than, or even completely different from, the deep friendship that has existed between you for so long, but that has grown from and is made more precious because of it. You still consider Yamato your dearest friend… it’s just that now you also shiver at the thought of kissing him and the sight of the many among his father’s underlings who try to attract his attention -or him, directly, in their bed- makes you seethe with anger. 
👹 Should you tell Yamato what you feel? There have never been secrets between you, but this time, after agonising on the matter for days -and dearly wishing you could ask for your mother’s opinion; unfortunately all the time you spend with her and your siblings is still closely monitored, and you don’t even want to know what would happen if Kaidou found out you’re madly in love with his son- you decide it’s better if you keep it to yourself, at least until you have reason to believe he feels the same, since you want to avoid the heartbreak and awkwardness and that will surely follow a refusal. You still feel blessed to have him as your friend; and one day, you tell yourself, things may be different. 
👹 Two years after you and Yamato have said good-bye to Ace, his Vivre Card disintegrates, which makes you realise he has died. You both mourn him, and you privately apologise to Ace for not having gotten to know him as much as you could have during your time together, and for the secret, unjustified resentment you felt for him in your heart. Later, you read about your friend’s demise on the paper, and also about his brother Luffy, who has become a powerful pirate captain. Yamato tells you that this young man you’ve never met could be exactly the person you were waiting for, to help you bring down Kaidou. 
👹 You’ve been friends for exactly a decade -and you a servant of Kaidou for two- when finally everything changes, thanks to no one but Luffy himself, who just like Yamato expected has come to Onigashima to defeat his father, free Wano… and restore as a shogun Oden’s own son Momonosuke, who is miraculously alive -but, for some reason, is still eight years old even though he was born the same year as you and Yamato- and has returned together with his father’s retainers, the Nine Red Scabbards. In order to assist them, you decide to separate; Yamato goes to meet Luffy, and asks you to try and neutralise the All-Stars, the Beast Pirates’ top executives, in order to weaken Kaidou’s potential response to the invasion. 
👹 Knowing that your friend trusts you enough to face as strong opponents as King and the others -and he’s not simply saying it to please you, since he clearly doesn’t want you to be killed- fills your heart with warmth. As you prepare to part, well aware that you may not survive the night and not wanting to die with more regrets than you already have, you impulsively grab Yamato by the front of his shirt and kiss him passionately; he freezes, clearly taken aback, but a moment later he’s taken you in his arms and is kissing you back. After all the time you had spent fantasising about your first kiss, reality is a thousand times better than everything you might have expected; so sweet and passionate you wish you could spend the rest of the night just holding each other and smooching, but you have a battle to fight and a land to liberate. When you finally part, you and Yamato are both grinning. “I’ve been wanting to do that for years.” you confess, and your friend, who has gone adorably red in the face, smiles and admits that he wouldn’t have minded - far from it. You hold each other tight, well aware that tonight all your dreams and aspirations could come true, or be cruelly crushed by an unforgiving reality.
👹 “See that you survive.” “Right back at you; I’ll see you later.”
👹 Having left Yamato, you force yourself to ignore the warmth of his kiss lingering on your mouth and the fact your heart is still pounding, to focus on the battle that awaits you, and that you have waited for since you were eight. First of all, you reach your family, quickly defeating the guards who try to stop you, and lead them to safety to a hidden room you had selected a while ago, expressly for this purpose. Your siblings beg to be allowed to fight as well, since they also want to avenge your father and liberate their home from Kaidou, but you convince them to relent: they need to protect your mother, and should the battle be won without you, it will be up to them to continue the family line and rule Ringo. Your mother embraces you; she doesn’t try to dissuade you from your duty, but begs you to be careful, and kisses your forehead in blessing. 
👹 Your primary objective is to vanquish King, Kaidou’s right-hand man, and you find him on the castle’s Live Floor, fighting a young man who you assume to be a member of Luffy’s crew… a young man who looks exactly like your father did in his youth, except for the colour of his hair. You look at him, flabbergasted, and he looks back, equally stunned, having noticed the strong family resemblance between the two of you. “Who the hell are you?!” “Who the hell are you?! Why do we look like we are siblings?!”
👹 You’re completely astonished -this man does look like he could be your brother, but you’re ready to bet your father never betrayed his marital vows, not to mention that your new acquaintance doesn’t look old enough to have been conceived more than twenty years ago- but you quickly decide you’ll have time to talk later. “Name’s Roronoa Zoro.” “Pleasure, I’m (name). Mind if I help you against this guy?” 
👹 King is one of the strongest fighters you’ve ever encountered, but Zoro is, you find out, an exceptionally talented swordsman, able to wield three blades at the same time, and joining forces you’re able to defeat him. You and Zoro share a grin, having already developed respect for each other, and then part; you later meet Momonosuke, and help a kunoichi named Shinobu protect him from Kaidou’s men while Yamato battles his father. 
👹 You and Yamato find each other again after Kaidou’s defeat; you embrace tightly, happy and relieved to see each other unscathed. Together with your family, who you have freed from their hiding place, you witness Momonosuke, now in his adult self, present himself to the people of Wano as their new Shogun. Yamato introduces you to Luffy; you hear the two of them discuss Yamato joining Luffy’s crew, just like your friend did with Ace years ago, now that the straw-hatted pirate has removed Yamato’s exploding handcuffs, and you feel your heart break at the thought you’re going to lose him forever, just when a new future was opening in front of you. But you have known for years that this would happen, and no matter how painful it’ll be, you’re determined to encourage Yamato to realise his dream, rather than stop him or beg him to stay, whatever the price might be. 
👹 Once things have come back to normal after Kaidou’s defeat, you have a long interview with Momonosuke, who officially makes you the new daimyo of Ringo, as your father’s heir, and you promise you’ll do everything you can to support him for the creation of a free, happier Wano. You and your family return to your childhood home; you cry tears of joy when you find out that Onimaru, who had run away after your father’s arrest, has survived, spent five years protecting the graves in Ringo’s cemetery, and then was cared for by Kawamatsu, one of the Nine Red Scabbards. Your father’s old pet happily joins the family once more, to the great joy of your mother and siblings. 
👹 Speaking of your father. You and Zoro have a long conversation, soon realising that your resemblance is no coincidence but you are, in fact, related; his grandmother was Shimotsuki Furiko, your father’s younger sister, who in her youth left Wano with a small group of other people and -he tells you- settled in the East Blue. You introduce Zoro to your mother and siblings, and to Yamato, who also recognise his resemblance to your father, and Zoro tells you about his dream of becoming the world’s strongest swordsman, and about Kuina, who you both realise is also a relative of yours, through your clansman Shimotsuki Kouzaburou. You spar, get drunk on the best saké you were able to steal from Kaidou’s castle after his defeat, and quickly become friends.
👹 A few days later, a great festival takes place in the Flower Capital, to celebrate the return of the Kouzuki family to power; you and Yamato participate together with Luffy’s crew and your other allies, but at one point you’re forced to go intercept a Marines Admiral who has come to take Luffy, with no regards for the safety of Wano’s people. Momonosuke orders you to let him fight by himself, and he’s actually able to hold his own against the invader until the Admiral is forced to leave.
👹 Later on, you and Yamato take a walk together - or at least that was your plan, even though you end up hidden behind a hedge as you kiss senselessly, holding each other tight as the symphony of your moans fills the air. You’ve never felt so happy in your life, and once again, you wish you could spend the rest of your life held in Yamato’s embrace, hearing him purr contently as you kiss his neck; that will probably not happen, but you’ll enjoy your time together while it lasts. Yamato admits that he had known he didn’t just want to be your friend for a long while now, but never found the courage to tell you what he felt, mainly because he was almost sure you didn’t reciprocate his feelings.
👹 “The truth is… well, you remember when you told me you had gone to a brothel? The person who serviced you was a man.” “Yes, and?” “Well…” unsure like you’ve never seen him, Yamato points to his body “No matter how much I try to be like Oden, you know I still have the body of a woman. So I thought that maybe… if one day we’d become… intimate…”
👹 You immediately reassure Yamato that his gender has nothing to do with the affection and the attraction -yes, the attraction- that you feel for him. “If you really want to know… that night at the brothel, the man I paid did everything he could to make me feel good, but while he touched me I could only think about you.” you admit with a slight blush; how blind you have been, taking so long to realise friendship was not all you wanted from him! “I don’t care if you have the body of a man, or of a woman, or-or of both, or neither; you are Yamato, my Yamato, and I am in love with you. I will never stop wanting you… and I will still be here when you return from your journey at sea.”
👹 Yamato looks at you, suddenly crestfallen. “What? You’re not coming with me? I thought we’d depart together!” he protests, and you, while happy that he’s not planning on abandoning you to go gallivanting around the world -even though you could have told me at least!- point out that you can’t very well decide to leave on a whim. You are the daimyo of Ringo now, you have sworn allegiance to Momonosuke, and your land and your people need you, after so many years under Kaidou’s abusive rule. “But I don’t want you to remain only because of me; I’ll miss you like air, but you’ve been imprisoned here on Onigashima your whole life, no one deserves freedom more than you.” you add, forcing yourself to encourage him even though his happiness will automatically mean your loss “You can sail, either with Luffy or by yourself if you want, discover the world like you’ve always wanted… and when you decide to return, I’ll be here waiting for you.”
👹 You both reflect on the matter for a while, hand in hand as you sit on the stone steps of the Shogun’s castle, observing the fireworks exploding in the sky above you; the multicoloured light kisses Yamato’s pale skin and hair. “I want to protect Momonosuke too; I think this is what Oden would have wanted.” he says in the end, his tone pensive but not sad “And the Admiral’s attack today has proved that there are so many forces that could hurt him, and Wano; so I think I’ll stay, at least for a while.” “Are you sure? You’re not… disappointed?” “Well, the world is not going anywhere, is it? And in any case, departing without you would only be half the fun. Let’s promise this, (name); that one day, when there’s no longer need of us here… you can leave your mother and siblings to govern in your place for a while, and we’ll sail together.”
👹 Nothing in the world would make you happier, and you tell him; you and Yamato share a grin, finally free of fears about the future and your feelings, and kiss some more, oblivious to the fact you’re in plain sight, under the eyes of Wano’s partying people. 
👹 “(name)?” “Yes, Yamato?” “I love you too.” “I know.” 
👹 His cheek rests on your shoulder as you keep staring at the sky, where flowers of light bloom and disappear only a few moments later; you sigh, happy and in peace, and take your lover’s hand in yours, determined to never let go for the rest of your life.
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