#What Does Vps Stand For

[tamerbadereldin]

Unchain Your Website's Potential: The Ultimate Guide to VPS Hosting!

Is your website sluggish, unreliable, and constantly battling for resources? Shared hosting might have been a lifesaver when you were starting out, but now it's holding you back. Upgrading to a Virtual Private Server (VPS) can be the game-changer you need. But what exactly is a VPS, and how can it unleash your website's true potential?

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of VPS hosting, explaining how it works, its benefits for tasks like Forex trading, and the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect plan for your needs. We'll even show you how to navigate the setup process and unlock the power of your VPS with tools like Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

By the end of this article, you'll be armed with the knowledge to confidently choose a reliable VPS hosting provider like Data Base Mart and propel your website or application to new heights of performance and security.

Unveiling the VPS: How It Works

Imagine a high-rise apartment building. The entire building represents a physical server owned by a hosting provider. Now, imagine dividing each floor into individual, self-contained units. These units are your VPS!

VPS hosting leverages virtualization technology to carve a single physical server into multiple virtual ones. Each VPS functions like a dedicated server, with its own operating system, software, and allocated resources like CPU, memory, and storage. This isolation ensures your website or application enjoys a stable environment, unaffected by activity on other virtual servers sharing the physical machine.

How VPS Hosting Works

VPS hosting builds upon the core principle explained above. Hosting providers like Data Base Mart offer various VPS plans with different resource allocations. You choose a plan that aligns with your needs and budget. The provider then sets up your virtual server on their physical infrastructure, granting you root access for complete control and customization.

Powering Forex Trading with VPS

Foreign exchange (Forex) trading thrives on speed and reliability. A VPS ensures uninterrupted access to the market, even during peak trading hours. With a VPS, you can run trading bots and automated strategies 24/7 without worrying about downtime caused by shared hosting issues.

Choosing the Right VPS

Selecting the ideal VPS hinges on your specific needs. Here's a breakdown of key factors to consider:

Resource Requirements: Evaluate your CPU, memory, and storage needs based on the website or application you'll be running.

Operating System: Choose a provider offering the operating system you're comfortable with, such as Linux or Windows.

Managed vs. Unmanaged: Managed VPS plans include maintenance and support, while unmanaged plans require you to handle server administration.

Scalability: If you anticipate future growth, choose a provider that allows easy scaling of your VPS resources.

How to Use VPS with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Many VPS providers offer remote access via RDP, a graphical interface that lets you manage your server from a remote computer. This is particularly useful for installing software, configuring settings, and troubleshooting issues.

Creating a VPS Account

The signup process for a VPS account is straightforward. Head to your chosen provider's website, select a plan, and follow the on-screen instructions. They'll typically guide you through the account creation and server setup process.

VPS Pricing

VPS plans are generally more expensive than shared hosting but significantly cheaper than dedicated servers. Pricing varies based on resource allocation and features. Providers like Data Base Mart offer competitive rates for reliable VPS solutions.

VPS Terminology Explained

VPS Stands For: Virtual Private Server

VPS Airport (doesn't exist): VPS is not an airport code.

VPS in Basketball (doesn't exist): VPS has no meaning specific to basketball.

VPS Hosting: As explained earlier, refers to a hosting service that provides virtual private servers.

VPS in Business: In a business context, VPS can refer to a virtual private server used for web hosting, application deployment, or other IT needs.

VPS in School (uncommon): While uncommon, schools might use VPS for specific applications requiring a dedicated server environment.

Final Thoughts

VPS offers a compelling middle ground between shared hosting and dedicated servers. It provides the power and control of a dedicated server at a fraction of the cost. By understanding how VPS works and choosing the right plan, you can unlock a secure and reliable platform for your website, application, or even Forex trading needs.

[wilxfyre]

“Can’t take you anywhere, Can I?”

“Nnnnope.”

OTP : Silver Lightning [8/?] bonus:

"Stop being so fucking tall, V." "Stop being short, then."

[afloweroutofstone]

The Trump administration accidentally included the conservative editor of The Atlantic in a group chat where they were discussing, in great detail, the US bombing campaign in Yemen

In all, 18 individuals were listed as members of this group, including various National Security Council officials; Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s Middle East and Ukraine negotiator; Susie Wiles, the White House chief of staff; and someone identified only as “S M,” which I took to stand for Stephen Miller. I appeared on my own screen only as “JG.”

...I had very strong doubts that this text group was real, because I could not believe that the national-security leadership of the United States would communicate on Signal about imminent war plans. I also could not believe that the national security adviser to the president would be so reckless as to include the editor in chief of The Atlantic in such discussions with senior U.S. officials, up to and including the vice president...

At this point, a fascinating policy discussion commenced. The account labeled “JD Vance” responded at 8:16: “Team, I am out for the day doing an economic event in Michigan. But I think we are making a mistake.” (Vance was indeed in Michigan that day.) The Vance account goes on to state, “3 percent of US trade runs through the suez. 40 percent of European trade does. There is a real risk that the public doesn’t understand this or why it’s necessary. The strongest reason to do this is, as POTUS said, to send a message.”

The Vance account then goes on to make a noteworthy statement, considering that the vice president has not deviated publicly from Trump’s position on virtually any issue. “I am not sure the president is aware how inconsistent this is with his message on Europe right now. There’s a further risk that we see a moderate to severe spike in oil prices. I am willing to support the consensus of the team and keep these concerns to myself. But there is a strong argument for delaying this a month, doing the messaging work on why this matters, seeing where the economy is, etc.”...

At 8:27, a message arrived from the “Pete Hegseth” account. “VP: I understand your concerns – and fully support you raising w/ POTUS. Important considerations, most of which are tough to know how they play out (economy, Ukraine peace, Gaza, etc). I think messaging is going to be tough no matter what – nobody knows who the Houthis are – which is why we would need to stay focused on: 1) Biden failed & 2) Iran funded.”

The Hegseth message goes on to state, “Waiting a few weeks or a month does not fundamentally change the calculus. 2 immediate risks on waiting: 1) this leaks, and we look indecisive; 2) Israel takes an action first – or Gaza cease fire falls apart – and we don’t get to start this on our own terms. We can manage both. We are prepared to execute, and if I had final go or no go vote, I believe we should. This [is] not about the Houthis. I see it as two things: 1) Restoring Freedom of Navigation, a core national interest; and 2) Reestablish deterrence, which Biden cratered. But, we can easily pause. And if we do, I will do all we can to enforce 100% OPSEC”—operations security. “I welcome other thoughts.”...

The account identified as “JD Vance” addressed a message at 8:45 to @Pete Hegseth: “if you think we should do it let’s go. I just hate bailing Europe out again.” (The administration has argued that America’s European allies benefit economically from the U.S. Navy’s protection of international shipping lanes.)

It was the next morning, Saturday, March 15, when this story became truly bizarre.

At 11:44 a.m., the account labeled “Pete Hegseth” posted in Signal a “TEAM UPDATE.” I will not quote from this update, or from certain other subsequent texts. The information contained in them, if they had been read by an adversary of the United States, could conceivably have been used to harm American military and intelligence personnel, particularly in the broader Middle East, Central Command’s area of responsibility. What I will say, in order to illustrate the shocking recklessness of this Signal conversation, is that the Hegseth post contained operational details of forthcoming strikes on Yemen, including information about targets, weapons the U.S. would be deploying, and attack sequencing.

The only person to reply to the update from Hegseth was the person identified as the vice president. “I will say a prayer for victory,” Vance wrote. (Two other users subsequently added prayer emoji.)

According to the lengthy Hegseth text, the first detonations in Yemen would be felt two hours hence, at 1:45 p.m. eastern time. So I waited in my car in a supermarket parking lot. If this Signal chat was real, I reasoned, Houthi targets would soon be bombed. At about 1:55, I checked X and searched Yemen. Explosions were then being heard across Sanaa, the capital city.

[odileeclipse]

hii! could you do a smc x fem!reader x vp (poly bcs why not) who wears a kimono always bcs of her culture and could you possibly write their reaction to reader wearing casual clothes for just one day? ty!! a mini scenario and some hcs will do

The absence of your kimono’s weight feels almost unnatural, like stepping onto a stage without a costume. Even though you chose this, the shift is unsettling. You pause at the doorway, fingers twitching slightly at the unfamiliar fabric against your skin. Pure Vanilla Cookie is the first to notice, his eyes widening just a fraction before softening into something unreadable tender, but thoughtful. He closes the book in his lap without a word, standing up and approaching you like he’s afraid you’ll disappear. “You…” His voice is barely above a whisper, reverent in a way that makes your stomach twist. Then, as if remembering himself, he exhales a quiet chuckle. “You look beautiful.” He reaches out, fingertips brushing the sleeve of your clothes not judging, just feeling, as if confirming you’re real. “Does it feel alright?” His concern isn’t about the change itself, but about you. Before you can answer, laughter spills from the shadows, light and almost mocking. “Well, well, well.” Shadow Milk Cookie lounges against his staff, a smirk curling his lips. “Has the grand illusionist finally cast aside their veil? Or is this just another trick?” He paces around you, slow and deliberate, like a cat circling something just out of reach. “I have to say, I never imagined I’d see you like this. It’s… disorienting.”

He tilts his head, studying you with his ever-watchful, mismatched eyes. Then, in a hushed whisper, he leans in close. “You look like someone I could almost mistake for ordinary.” The way he says it like it’s some kind of inside joke, a riddle only he understands sends a shiver down your spine. Pure Vanilla sighs, shaking his head but smiling nonetheless. “Shadow Milk, must you always be so dramatic?” “Must you always be so predictable?” Shadow Milk Cookie retorts with an easy grin. “Come now, I was the one blindsided today. Don’t I deserve a moment of theatrical grief?” You roll your eyes, finally finding your voice. “It’s just for today.” “Ah, so the stage resets tomorrow. Good, good.”

“But, I must admit… seeing you like this? I do like surprises.” His smile is sharp but genuine, like he’s enjoying this new puzzle you’ve given him. Pure Vanilla squeezes your hand, anchoring you in the moment. “No matter what you wear,” he says softly, “you’re still you. And I’ll always love you.” Shadow Milk Cookie hums, expression unreadable. “Hmm. I’d say something similar, but that would ruin the fun, wouldn’t it?” Even as he teases, there’s something else in his gaze, something thoughtful, almost possessive. He won’t admit it, but he likes knowing he’s seen you like this when no one else has.

Head canons

💛 Pure Vanilla Cookie

Doesn’t hesitate to reassure you. His first reaction isn’t shock it’s deep admiration.

Gently asks if you feel okay, not because he dislikes the change, but because he wants to know if you’re comfortable.

Loves the beauty of tradition but also loves seeing you explore new things.

If you’re uncertain, he’ll remind you, “You’re still yourself, and that’s what matters.”

His favorite thing isn’t the clothes it’s you.

🃏 Shadow Milk Cookie

Immediately makes a show of it. You’ve given him something new to latch onto, and he will not waste the opportunity.

Theatrical grief? Oh, absolutely. “My dear, I feel as though I have lost something irreplaceable!”

Won’t admit he actually thinks you look good at least, not outright.

The idea of you stepping outside of expectations? He loves it. You’ve intrigued him all over again.

A/N I finally got around to proof reading this enjoy <3

[rottenpumpkin13]

To address gender stereotypes, and because someone told him he can’t and NOBODY TELLS HIM HE CAN’T! It was Hojo. Sephiroth decides to come to work and spend the whole day in a dress. He might never go back to normal (if you can call his outfit that) attire ever again. It breaths. It accentuates his graceful figure as well as showing off his very toned muscles in a way his coat and pants and boots never could. Also, how much more humiliating will the defeat of his enemies be when he is crushing them under foot and they can’t even look up at him in their shame lest they accidentally catch a glimpse of his up-skirt and be labeled a loser and a pervert.

Lazard: Sephiroth, why are you wearing a dress? And I ask that in a nonjudgmental, HR-compliant manner that will not result in mandatory sensitivity training.

Sephiroth: Hojo implied I should cut my hair to "present as more traditionally masculine." So naturally, I have chosen to escalate.

Lazard: I see. That is both deeply petty and impressively committed. Carry on.

Genesis: EXCUSE ME— I wore a dress two months ago, and you sent me back to my quarters to change. Why does he get a pass?!

Angeal: Because your dress came with a parasol, full decolletage, lace gloves, a wig, dramatic makeup, and an active attempt to seduce the VP.

Genesis: Successfully seduce the VP*

Zack: Can I wear a dress?

Lazard: If it doesn't hinder combat and it's only for one day, sure.

Zack: Okay, but what if someone tries to look up your skirt in a fight?

Sephiroth: I have ensured that, should it happen, they will experience a lethal combination of shame, confusion, arousal, and an existential crisis so profound that they will be instantly rendered unable to continue combat.

Angeal: Ridiculous. How could simply looking under a man's dress possibly....

*Angeal, in his hubris, bends down and lifts up the dress*

Angeal: !!!

*He smooths the dress back down and stands back up*

Angeal: The bastard is wearing a garter belt.

[qqueenofhades]

I KNOW he’s gonna find a way to worm his way out of it like the Worlds Biggest Bitch Baby that he is but… the thought of watching our future president absolutely eviscerate that orange sack of pond scum in a debate on national television make me feel indescribable joy. The mere thought of it makes me feel A L I V E.

I hope that if he refuses to debate her, she still stands up there by herself, looks directly into the camera and lists all the ways he’s a Scaredy Little Punk Ass Bitch.

Listen, Democrats might still have some understandable nerves (though listen to me, LISTEN TO ME: this is NOT THE TIME FOR MORE PANIC, THIS IS NOT THE TIME TO TALK ABOUT HOW SCARY THIS IS, WE KNOW! WE KNOW! THIS IS THE TIME TO GET TF IN FORMATION AND DO YOUR GODDAMN JOB!) but let me say this, the Republicans are LOSING it. They put ALL their chips on facing Sleepy Old Joe who don't talk so good anymore, and suddenly they have a 59-year-old lawyer and prosecutor who literally spent her whole elected career going after sex pests, frauds, and felons. (We remember how she made Brett Kavanaugh fucking cry at his confirmation hearing, right?) And suddenly, they have to bring it against Kamala. GODSPEED, DIPSHITS.

So yes, Trump is already whining SO hard about all the money they "wasted" going after Biden, laying the groundwork to escape getting his ass handed to him at the next debate, got stuck with a terriblawful VP pick (even Fucking FOX NEWS cut away from Vance's rally the other day because it was so boring) and suddenly realizing that he spent so much effort to make this election about age and mental competency when... now it's him. WHAT NOW, FUCKFACES. WHAT. NOW.

I'd also like to point out that abortion rights are going to be a HUGE issue, they have won everywhere they have been on the ballot (including in very red states) post-Dobbs, they will be on the ballot in several more important states (including Fucking Florida, not that I actually think we'll win there), and Kamala has a great record as a defender of reproductive freedom. Biden did his best, bless him, but sometimes the Old Catholic Man still leaped out. So the absolute fucking schadenfreude of having a black female president BEAT TRUMP IN A POST-DOBBS ELECTION??? MAGNIFICENT.

(As @silverbirching says: we wonder how many minutes it will take SCOTUS to row back the "president god-king" ruling if Kamala wins. We're guessing 15. That is, if Joe does not finally just embrace the fact that presidents are immune AND he is leaving office, and send Alito, Thomas, and Kav on a "special indefinite vacation" as an inauguration present.)

I am not overconfident. I know this is unprecedented. I know we don't have much time, and how hard this will be. This is not 2016 or 2020, and we all have to do the work and not let up. But if the Handmaid's Tale party is literally now trying to make "Kamala doesn't have children because she's an Evul Feminist" into their main line of attack, all I say is, Please proceed, chucklefucks. I'm sure that will go great.

[alongtidesoflight]

OC TRAITS AND AESTHETICS

i have been tagged by both @harellan and @dandenbo to do this, thanks guys!

instructions: rate your oc's traits and show off their aesthetics (moodboards, art, vp, etc.)

i'm tagging: @wraithsoutlaws @raenef @neon-mutt @blighted-elf @keriweird @pastelroyce @ineed-to-sleep @chevvy-ryder @alphanight1-vp @radioactive-synth @slothssassin and whoever else wants to do this. (no pressure)

(and because the first tag focused on aesthetics and the second on more Lore Talk, i'm simply doing both. who's gonna stop me.)

compassion: 8/10

he's very compassionate, but doesn't really like to show it (unless absolutely necessary) out of self-preservation. usually ends up putting everyone else's needs above his own regardless.

bitterness: 7/10

prefers to bottle up his feelings and keep the mood up instead. there's things that happened to him that he buried 6ft deep and under and boy does it get ugly when they crop up.

happiness: 4/10

making people around him happy and smile is what he's really REALLY good at. when it comes to himself though? he's honestly stopped trying.

politeness: 5/10

he knows how to be polite when the situation calls for it (like dealing with the arasakas). but he prefers not being put in those situations at all, because he can't stand being around the kinda people who demand around-the-clock politeness while there's a ton of corpses rotting in their basements.

chivalry: 2/10

chivalry isn't his thing. he's good at appearing chivalrous, though. it's a hit with the guys and girls.

pride: 7/10

there's times when pride has to be left at the door and he has a good sense of knowing when those times have come. but he knows his strengths and like hell is he gonna deny those.

honesty: 2/10

lying has saved his life so many times he's lost count. there's hardly a person who truly knows him and he likes it that way. the few people who do know him, however, usually get the truth (or know him well enough to know he's not being completely honest rn).

bravery: 10/10

there's no room for fear and cowardice when you're raised by the raffen shiv. full stop.

recklessness: 10/10

it's survival at any cost. he's aiming for it with absolute unpredictability and recklessness is 100% a part of it. has to be, really. he's wedged himself into situations that he wouldn't have gotten out of otherwise.

ambition: 7/10

he doesn't get ambitious very often, but when he does he's not letting go of his ambitions until he's reached whatever he currently wants. but he's not the kinda guy who gets super competitive about something.

loyalty: 5/10

he's loyal to three people only and that's carolina, himself and whoever ends up his partner. those trust issues of his are through the roof.

love: 6/10

i've said it on another lore post of him and i'll say it here again. he's incapable of holding down relationships, he's just not that kinda guy. casual is the way to go. (will never beat the "actually wants to love and be loved romantically but doesn't know how to initiate, make that happen, OR react to it" allegations)

sense of family: 0/10

look. his father abducted him and dragged him across half a continent to make sure his mother wouldn't find him. he spent most of his childhood with the raffens. fuck his family.

(he tries not to think of other families. until jackie and mama welles he has no sense of how they work and once he does all they do is make him envious and sad.)

attractiveness: 7/10

attractiveness is a subjective thing. but he's big on personal hygiene, spends more time in front of a mirror than he'd like to admit, has a warm smile, a disarming aura, charm for twelve, and a knack for making people feel relaxed and comfortable. he'd rate himself a lot lower, though.

agility: 10/10

agility is one of his main traits and how he escapes a lot of dicey situations. he isn't tall and he isn't particularly strong without his cyberware, so he's relying on being quick and smooth. he's really good at turning his environment into an impromptu weapon.

sex drive: 14/10

that sex sure is driving. (he needs to shut off his brain for a couple hours, so please please please answer your phone)

if you're confused and wondering where the hell this tag comes from hi this is @cybernomads on main!

template: download here

[wishmaster]

Hey a bunch of Chavs moved in next to me and keep causing a ruckus playing loud music? Anything I can do about this?

They stand outside staring at you, they know you're not happy with them and give you a proper hello. You fear for your future that is until you bumpy into one of them on your way out.

He's out enjoying a smoke, his shiny track suit catches you eye as does the firm ass sticking out from it.

Hey Bruv, his says in his rough broken British tongue, blowing smoke in your face, which bothers yo at first because you hate cigarettes and their smell.

Hi you say standing there almost entranced by him. He continues to smile at you blowing smoke right on you, but now doesn't seem to bother you in fact it seems some what intoxicating. He offers you a drag, which you happily take, the moment the fag hits your lips you feel something cold and metallic around your neck.

Fuck yeah bruv! you shake hands with him, you embrace as if you've known each other for years, unaware you now had the same heavy voice as him, your stuffy work clothes now replaced by a near duplicate of your mates suit.

But with your signature leather gloves which you wear just in case you and the boys happen to get into trouble, unlike your mates whose finger prints have been worn off working construction, you still had yours thanks to spending your nights banging the bosses daughter, you had a easier job at the site, assistant to the VP, which came with its perks.

Fuck Yeah you shout almost a rallying call as all your best mates gathered, it was Friday night, time to go out and raise some hell!!

[warningsine]

Living online means never quite understanding what’s happening to you at a given moment. Why these search results? Why this product recommendation? There is a feeling—often warranted, sometimes conspiracy-minded—that we are constantly manipulated by platforms and websites.

So-called dark patterns, deceptive bits of web design that can trick people into certain choices online, make it harder to unsubscribe from a scammy or unwanted newsletter; they nudge us into purchases. Algorithms optimized for engagement shape what we see on social media and can goad us into participation by showing us things that are likely to provoke strong emotional responses. But although we know that all of this is happening in aggregate, it’s hard to know specifically how large technology companies exert their influence over our lives.

This week, Wired published a story by the former FTC attorney Megan Gray that illustrates the dynamic in a nutshell. The op-ed argued that Google alters user searches to include more lucrative keywords. For example, Google is said to surreptitiously replace a query for “children’s clothing” with “NIKOLAI-brand kidswear” on the back end in order to direct users to lucrative shopping links on the results page. It’s an alarming allegation, and Ned Adriance, a spokesperson for Google, told me that it’s “flat-out false.” Gray, who is also a former vice president of the Google Search competitor DuckDuckGo, had seemingly misinterpreted a chart that was briefly presented during the company’s ongoing U.S. et al v. Google trial, in which the company is defending itself against charges that it violated federal antitrust law. (That chart, according to Adriance, represents a “phrase match” feature that the company uses for its ads product; “Google does not delete queries and replace them with ones that monetize better as the opinion piece suggests, and the organic results you see in Search are not affected by our ads systems,” he said.)

Gray told me, “I stand by my larger point—the Google Search team and Google ad team worked together to secretly boost commercial queries, which triggered more ads and thus revenue. Google isn’t contesting this, as far as I know.” In a statement, Chelsea Russo, another Google spokesperson, reiterated that the company’s products do not work this way and cited testimony from Google VP Jerry Dischler that “the organic team does not take data from the ads team in order to affect its ranking and affect its result.” Wired did not respond to a request for comment. Last night, the publication removed the story from its website, noting that it does not meet Wired’s editorial standards.

It’s hard to know what to make of these competing statements. Gray’s specific facts may be wrong, but the broader concerns about Google’s business—that it makes monetization decisions that could lead the product to feel less useful or enjoyable—form the heart of the government’s case against the company. None of this is easy to untangle in plain English—in fact, that’s the whole point of the trial. For most of us, evidence about Big Tech’s products tends to be anecdotal or fuzzy—more vibes-based than factual. Google may not be altering billions of queries in the manner that the Wired story suggests, but the company is constantly tweaking and ranking what we see, while injecting ads and proprietary widgets into our feed, thereby altering our experience. And so we end up saying that Google Search is less useful now or that shopping on Amazon has gotten worse. These tools are so embedded in our lives that we feel acutely that something is off, even if we can’t put our finger on the technical problem.

That’s changing. In the past month, thanks to a series of antitrust actions on behalf of the federal government, hard evidence of the ways that Silicon Valley’s biggest companies are wielding their influence is trickling out. Google’s trial is under way, and while the tech giant is trying to keep testimony locked down, the past four weeks have helped illustrate—via internal company documents and slide decks like the one cited by Wired—how Google has used its war chest to broker deals and dominate the search market. Perhaps the specifics of Gray’s essay were off, but we have learned, for instance, how company executives considered adjusting Google’s products to lead to more “monetizable queries.” And just last week, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Amazon alleging anticompetitive practices. (Amazon has called the suit “misguided.”)

Filings related to that suit have delivered a staggering revelation concerning a secretive Amazon algorithm code-named Project Nessie. The particulars of Nessie were heavily redacted in the public complaint, but this week The Wall Street Journal revealed details of the program. According to the unredacted complaint, a copy of which I have also viewed, Nessie—which is no longer in use—monitored industry prices of specific goods to determine whether competitors were algorithmically matching Amazon’s prices. In the event that competitors were, Nessie would exploit this by systematically raising prices on goods across Amazon, encouraging its competitors to follow suit. Amazon, via the algorithm, knew that it would be able to charge more on its own site, because it didn’t have to worry about being undercut elsewhere, thereby making the broader online shopping experience worse for everyone. An Amazon spokesperson told the Journal that the FTC is mischaracterizing the tool, and suggested that Nessie was a way to monitor competitor pricing and keep price-matching algorithms from dropping prices to unsustainable levels (the company did not respond to my request for comment).

In the FTC’s telling, Project Nessie demonstrates the sheer scope of Amazon’s power in online markets. The project arguably amounted to a form of unilateral price fixing, where Amazon essentially goaded its competitors into acting like cartel members without even knowing they’d done so—all while raising prices on consumers. It’s an astonishing form of influence, powered by behind-the-scenes technology.

The government will need to prove whether this type of algorithmic influence is illegal. But even putting legality aside, Project Nessie is a sterling example of the way that Big Tech has supercharged capitalistic tendencies and manipulated markets in unnatural and opaque ways. It demonstrates the muscle that a company can throw around when it has consolidated its position in a given sector. The complaint alleges that Amazon’s reach and logistics capabilities force third-party sellers to offer products on Amazon and for lower prices than other retailers. Once it captured a significant share of the retail market, Amazon was allegedly able to use algorithmic tools such as Nessie to drive prices up for specific products, boosting revenues and manipulating competitors.

Reading about Project Nessie, I was surprised to feel a sense of relief. In recent years, customer-satisfaction ratings have dipped among Amazon shoppers who have cited delivery disruptions, an explosion of third-party sellers, and poor-quality products as reasons for frustration. In my own life and among friends and relatives, there has been a growing feeling that shopping on the platform has become a slog, with fewer deals and far more junk to sift through. Again, these feelings tend to occupy vibe territory: Amazon’s bigness seems stifling or grating in ways that aren’t always easy to explain. But Nessie offers a partial explanation for this frustration, as do revelations about Google’s various product adjustments. We have the sense that we’re being manipulated because, well, we are. It’s a bit like feeling vaguely sick, going to the doctor, and receiving a blood-test result confirming that, yes, the malaise you experienced is actually an iron deficiency. It is the catharsis of, at long last, receiving a diagnosis.

This is the true power of the surge in anti-monopoly litigation. (According to experts in the field, September was “the most extraordinary month they have ever seen in antitrust.”) Whether or not any of these lawsuits results in corporate breakups or lasting change, they are, effectively, an MRI of our sprawling digital economy—a forensic look at what these larger-than-life technology companies are really doing, and how they are exerting their influence and causing damage. It is confirmation that what so many of us have felt—that the platforms dictating our online experiences are behaving unnaturally and manipulatively—is not merely a paranoid delusion, but the effect of an asymmetrical relationship between the giants of scale and us, the users.

In recent years, it’s been harder to love the internet, a miracle of connectivity that feels ever more bloated, stagnant, commercialized, and junkified. We are just now starting to understand the specifics of this transformation—the true influence of Silicon Valley’s vise grip on our lives. It turns out that the slow rot we might feel isn’t just in our heads, after all.

[matttheratkingart]

Gonna move all my Pregnant!Sentomaru au stuff from Twitter to here and since there is! A lot! It's going under the cut

- So Sentomaru gets pregnant post egghead during a grief fueled one night stand and didn't even realize anything was up until about two months in

-Decides to keep it because he's already lost all the family he had, he's not giving up the chance for a new one. He won't give up his child the way he was given up

- He finds a small village with a good midwife that he can tuck away into, makes a living fixing the folks' appliances and such, mostly sticks to himself if possible. Everyone is friendly enough but he has never grasped social graces and he's not about to start at 34

- He thinks about calling Borsalino many times during his term but he always ends up stopping just short of reaching for the snail. He can't trust Borsalino anymore, especially with this. He's never had something that is just his before, not even himself, and the little one inside of him is all he has left now

- He starts to grow out his hair from the style he's had since he was a child so he can be someone new for his baby when she's born (it's a little girl he calls Nori)

-When Borsalino (who was forced out of his grieving period and told to find his nephew and make amends by Issho) finally gets forgiven and allowed back into Sen's life he's like who is the father and Sen refuses to tell him saying it was a drunken one time thing (Bors: my little boy 🥺 drinking? having one night stands??? 😭 How did this happen??? Sen: I'M THIRTY FIVE)

- The baby is a kicker. Anyone touches Sen's belly she's kicking like she's trying to protect her daddy from the inside.

Borsalino touching Sen's belly: and how's the little rice ball today

Nori: beats the fuck out of his hand

Sentomaru: Uncle stop you're riling her up

- During a real late night when the baby is extra active the closer to her due date and Sen is overtired+ uncomfortable+miserable he let's slip to Issho, who has grown to be a true confidante, who the father is. Borsalino overhears and nearly blinds anyone walking by the house in his rage

- Turns out after Egghead Sentomaru ran into Kuzan, who recognized Sen from when he'd come to HQ to report for VP/visit Kizaru, and. Well.

- By the time Sen realized he was pregnant he was long gone from Kuzan and had no way to reach him, and it wasn’t worth it to go looking. Sen would rather just focus on his baby and getting his life together.

-Borsalino uuuuuuuuh feels differently!!!!!

- Bors crashing into the middle of Pirate Island in a blinding light of glory: WHERE IS HE. WHERE IS THE BASTARD WHO KNOCKED UP MY NEPHEW

- The crew: huh

Blackbeard: Huh????

Kuzan: HUH

- Sentomaru this 🤏 close to going into labor: WHERE THE FUCK IS OJIKI

Borsalino across the ocean shooting lasers at Kuzan: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR ACTIONS AOKIJI

Kuzan: WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT

- Borsalino drags Kuzan back to Sentomaru and its the catalyst for Sen to go into labor jgzsutsititsstiits

Sentomaru: WHAT THE FUCK IS HE DOING HERE- *water breaks* OH FUCK.

Bors Kuzan and Issho: OH FUCK

-The midwife when she gets there: only one other person in the room with us

Borsalino and Kuzan: Me-

Sentomaru: NO. FUCK YOU BOTH STAND OUTSIDE. ISSHO GET OVER HERE

Issho: ????? Ok but I don't know what a blind man will be able to do to help

- After many hours of labor little Nori is born, healthy and crying w a little thatch of black curls on her head. Sen is a blubbering mess and refuses to let her go. Borsalino is also a mess, cooing at his grand-niece, Issho on Sen's other side smiling at the joy in the room. Kuzan is in the doorway, unsure where he fits into all of this, but unable to look away from his child. And there's no doubt it's his; brown skin and dark curls, though something in the face that is distinctly Sentomaru. She's beautiful and he's overwhelmed

-Only after Issho basically strong arms Borsalino out of the room does Kuzan get closer. Sen, tired and wary, watches him pull the chair in the room next to the bed and sit down. For a while neither of them speak, unsure where to start

- Sentomaru: I wasn’t expecting to see you again

Kuzan: well, your uncle is very insistent

Sentomaru: tch, stubborn old fool

Kuzan: you really been doing this all by yourself?

Sentomaru shrugs: some. Uncle and Issho have helped

Kuzan: and you didnt think to find me?

Sen: why would I? I didn’t know where you were. And… what would be the point if it turned out you didn’t want anything to do with it anyways.

Kuzan: ….. hm. So what now?

Sen heaves a sigh, rubs his face: I don’t know. I didn’t factor you into this

Kuzan: mind if I stick around until you figure it out?

Sentomaru: you want to stay? What about the Blackbeard pirates?

Kuzan: eh, I never liked any of those bastards anyways. And… *he looks down at Nori, sleeping tucked up against Sen* I think this is more important.

Sen: …. Fine. We’ll find somewhere for you.

Kuzan: okay

Sen: and….. no funny business, alright? You’re just here to help. For Nori’s sake.

Kuzan: Sure. But you did just spend 6 hours giving birth to our kid, so don’t be too mad when I do this-

He kisses Sen, gently, brief

Sen blushing: whatever. Just don’t do it again

Kuzan smiles: of course not. Only if you ask

Sen still blushing: I won’t, you weirdo.

- True to his word, Kuzan is there to help, his propensity for napping in the day means he can be up at night when Nori needs to be fed or changed, though he ends up falling asleep w her on his chest until the next one in the rotation comes in and has to wake him up. Bors and Issho are also great grandparents even if none of them know what they're doing (at one point Bors gets worried bc "she's so small and I'm so tall what if I drop her" "you wont""but what if I do""... oh God what if you do" cue them squatting on the ground all day)

- As Nori grows and Kuzan sticks around he and Sentomaru develop a... friendly dynamic. In tuned parents. But it's definitely VERY charged

-Sleep deprived Sentomaru passing Kuzan Nori at 3 am for her changing, kisses her cheek goodnight and without thinking kisses Kuzan's cheek too. Does NOT realize that he did that until he's in bed and he's SO mortified he can't look at Kuzan at all the next morning kydkydkydkyd

[lizajane2]

This will be the only time I speak on politics on THIS blog. I stand with Palestine but I do not stand by people who think my rights aren't important. Mine, as a woman, will be stripped away because of Trump being in office. If I got pregnant right now, I'd die from having a miscarriage because the doctor would refuse to perform surgery.

And I'm embarrassed to even be remotely in the same sentence as "white women failed us." 52% of the vote?! 20% of registered Democrats refused to vote because "A vote for Kamala means you support genocide." No, we were trying to preserve the rights we had rather than vote for a man who is a racist, fascist, homophobic, and a rapist. Let's also mention the fact that he is a felon. That is the man who will be sitting in office and if you think he's going to help Palestine, he's not.

"Oh well, you should've just voted third-party or not at all." No. The US is not built for a third-party system. They never win a certain percentage of the popular vote and they are denied Federal Funding. Not voting is also worse. It helps put Trump in office which is exactly what happened when millions of registered voters didn't exercise their right.

"Well, Kamala has been Vice President for 4 years." Do you know what the VP does? Their role is to break tie votes in the Senate. They also prercide over impeachment trials, presiding over electoral vote counts, successor to the President, and acting President. They are also a governing partner, a representative at events, a congressional liaison, and a national security council member. All those things don't involve foreign policy.

And as a white woman who voted for Kamala, I mean this with my whole fucking chest, i don't wanna hear white women MAGA supporters complaining about how they're not getting the healthcare they need after their daughter, sister, aunt, or life long friend dies of sepsis because the doctor refused to perform surgery and save her life. I feel for the women having to go through that. But you, who voted for that, who WANTED that, well that's your bed and you get to lie in it. Don't look to my white ass asking for help because you can't afford the funeral expenses. Don't come to me looking for sympathy. I'll have sympathy for your daughter, who probably could've lived but you stripped that right away from her because you had to stand on being pro-life. I will not help you.

[zukkacore]

Crossposted to ao3

The morning after Frosty Fair Festival, Jace summons Porter to the principal’s office.

“I’ve been VP for five minutes, and I find out that one of the fucking Bad Kids is taking three simultaneous years of artificer class? What the fuck is wrong with you?”

“You can’t pin that on me, Stardiamond.” Porter’s laugh is easygoing, and he’s only half paying attention as he watches the smoke trail from the cigarette he’s waving around. “I tried to dissuade him. He put himself through that.”

“But you won’t sign his MCAT. Do you want his annoying little truant friend to hate you?”

Porter laughs. “Miss Faeth isn’t a truant, I’ve been taking attendance for her in barbarian classes nearly every day."

He takes a long drag. “Of course you have.”

“Miss Faeth hates me no matter what I do. If she hasn’t caught on to what’s going on by now, I think you can breathe. Besides, I like a challenge. Something you could stand to learn.”

He tries to take another drag, but his hands are shaking, he’s so mad. There’s a clenching in his chest where the shatterstar is placed, then a pain that radiates outward. He winces. “Be it from me to question your teaching methods, but. Do you know what the Bad Kids did to the last vice principal?”

“Hey. I brought you back once. I can do it again.”

“I—” He doesn’t want to talk about that right now. He’s not ready to talk about it. “Tell me, does getting chewed out by a devil because one of his best bloodrush players is swamped sound like a good time to you? Jawbone recommended I look into xanax, that’s how wired I’ve been. And that was before I got ‘promoted’.”

“I’m sure you could get your hands on some if you attended one of his orgies.”

“Go to hell.”

“Likewise.”

They glare back and forth. Jace is used to getting into tiffs with Porter, but this—this is real.

 When he opens his mouth, his voice is quiet. “I don’t see why you can’t just sign the kid’s fucking MCAT.”

“Not that I don’t appreciate the whole impassioned speech,” says Porter, “It’s nice to see you actually riled up about something once in your silver-spoon life, maybe finally you’ll start giving a fuck.”

“I’m not riled up,” says Jace, but he’s working to keep his voice steady.

He’s used to the assumptions about his life, and he’d much rather keep up appearances than let a soul know about his estranged parents or the mind that’s trying to kill him. That’s the thing about sorcery—when your power is innate, you can never stop being grateful. If things are fucked, they could always, always be worse. He has to be unassuming. He likes being unassuming, because a gift is not a threat. And if his student’s can see that this scary thing they can’t help doesn’t have to rule their life, then, yeah, he’s ok with being a little bit of a joke.

At least, he was ok with it, before Porter Cliffbreaker broke him and shoved a shatterstar into his gaping chest wound and gave him a choice: rage or oblivion? He made his choice. He can’t back out now. So doesn’t Porter see he’s trying to look out for him? “I just think it would make things so much easier—”

“For who? You? Pardon me for treading on your cushy little gig.”

“Oh, we’re way past that.” Eight months past, to be exact. His mind is drifting back fondly to bleeding out in the Mountain’s of Chaos. He’s grateful that it’s so early in the morning, that no one is around to cast Detect Thoughts.

“Thistlespring could use a little tough love. That’s just the way I teach, now that you’re in charge, you’re gonna have to deal with it. He’s an orc, Stardiamond—barbarism is in his blood. He just needs to apply himself. I mean, you’ve seen the kid play bloodrush, he’s a beast.”

He grimaces. Something about the way Porter is speaking, he can’t place it, but he feels sick to his stomach.

“Right,” says Porter, clearly misjudging the expression on his face. “You know, it wouldn’t hurt for you to show a little school spirit.”

Jace laughs sharply.

“Well. He’s a beast you’re gonna find yourself on the wrong side of if you don’t watch yourself. You know how The Bad Kids are—they worm their way into everything, and the goblin that Kipperlily hates, he’s the worst of all. You know, he ate—Forget it. I just. I don’t want you getting—” He stops just short of saying it. As much as Porter has personally fucked him over, he’s in it too deep. Despite everything, Jace cares about him. He’s just so tired of trying to make things work. “If… this plan is so important to you, you have to be a little more tactful and a little less—you.”

“You think I can’t take care of myself, Stardiamond?” Porter flashes an infuriating grin.

“I didn’t say that. I just said… Be careful.”

“I appreciate the feedback and the personal concern, veep, but trust me when I say you’re letting your personal feelings get in the way with this one.”

His face is burning up, and he’s certain he’s a humiliating shade of red. Jace doesn’t even have to say anything. Porter knows what a low blow that is.

“Yeah, well,” mutters Jace. “Multiclassing is not for everyone.”

“Right.”

Jace is a good sorcerer. So good that it’s hard to articulate to his students what to him is second nature. He’s not the kind of teacher who does lesson plans precisely because he was never the kind of student who needed to study. It’s eerie how much Porter in these moments reminds him of his own teacher—the kind of teacher who praises his natural gifts all day and was absolutely resistant to him looking into other classes because he viewed it as a waste, as noncommittal, as proof of his lack of dedication. 

Jace never got his MCAT signed. And he was… not prepared for the sheer volume of work required for even early level wizardry. He wanted it; he wanted to be the kind of dedicated person who could put in the work. Maybe his teacher had been right, maybe he wasn’t very bright, and maybe he hadn’t been cut out to be a wizard, but it did feel a little like he was thrown in the deep end and told to swim just to prove a point. He’s always been a slave to his impulses. And in the end, he ran back to sorcery where they welcomed him back with open arms because it felt good to be good at something.

He can feel the thrum of the shatterstar in his chest, anger coupled with shame. He hates himself for being Jace Stardiamond. He’s always taken the path of least resistance. 

He’s not even sure he could call himself a good sorcerer anymore. He’s never been the kind of wizardly person who innately finds the joy of learning and discovery. He’s never found it all that rewarding. But sorcery does require a kind of self-knowledge, a certainty of oneself that he hasn’t felt in a long time. Whoever he is right now is a stranger, buried under several feet of bitterness and self-loathing.

“What’s it to you? You don’t even give a fuck about your own students, have you gotten a soft heart about little Thistlespring all of a sudden?”

“I don’t give a fuck about Thistlespring! Don’t you get it?”

“Look, if he confronts me on it, I’ll sign the damn MCAT. Happy? I was only resistant at first because—well, I mean, have you heard that ridiculous song he sings? The kid’s not very bright.”

He doesn’t answer.

“I’ll get it done if it means that much to you. C’mere.”

Porter takes Jace by the hands, pulling him in so that he can wrap his arms around Jace’s waist.

“We’re at school—” says Jace, but his protests are half-hearted. He turns his head, and he can feel Porter’s lips press up against his cheek.

“Listen to me.” Porter takes his face in his hands. “I have everything under control. The Bad Kids are nothing, Jace. Trust me. They’re twig gremlins. Maybe I got a little overinvested. I can’t help it, I need recruits, and the kid’s a natural. But that’s not everything. He’s too… Too timid. Afraid.”

“Of what?”

“Embracing his power.”

“Are… Are we still, um—” Porter’s gaze on him is so intense, Jace forgets what he’s saying. But that drive that he sees in Porter, that deep need to push, to optimize, to always be the best—it’s always been a source of deep frustration for Jace. But he can’t deny those are the same traits that make Porter so easy to admire. Maybe it’s just a wish, but he swears he can see the same admiration mirrored in Porter’s expression.

He can feel himself being reeled back in. His life is currently a living hell, but something in him has always felt compelled to be worthy of Porter’s admiration.   

He wishes he could be the kind of person Porter wants him to be. He worries that there is no ascendant version of him, that this really is all his potential, plain and simple. But he’ll try. For Porter, he wants to be great.

They can hear footsteps on the other side of the door. Time for school.

Porter is quick to change gears. He coughs, clearing his throat as Jace is quick to step away. “Tell you what—I’ll get that straightened away, Stardiamond. I’ll sign the papers. Things were a little rocky at first, but you know what? He earned it, after the damn display of frosty fair. He’ll make a great… adventurer.” He’s watching. “You know. When the time comes.”

Jace sighs, but it does nothing to help release the tension in his chest. Yeah. Frosty fair. He has to make the announcement about that soon. He can feel a headache coming on just thinking about it.

Porter kisses him, but Jace is quick to brush him away and toward the door. “You need to go.”

Porter grins, and Jace can feel his heart skipping like he’s some teen adventurer with a schoolyard crush. “Tell me some things aren’t worth a little risk.”

“Well, I have to give a speech,” says Jace, following Porter out of the office. Jawbone waves at them, and Jace nods as he shuts the door behind them.

“Hey. You’re gonna knock it out of the park, alright?” He gives Jace a punch in the shoulder, and it’s so awkward that Jace would be charmed by it in any other circumstance. Like they’re amicable co-workers and not the bad guys. Like they’re not intertwined, Porter’s rage making a comfy little home in his ribcage. “We’re all looking to you, now, Stardiamond. It’s a heavy burden, but I can’t think of anyone else I’d trust more to handle the responsibility.”

Jace doesn’t bother to check his insight. If Porter says it, he’s ready to believe it.

[valorant-drabbles]

I am in dire need of more iso x reader so bad

Can I ask for Iso x cold! sniper! reader Can be platonic or romantic if it's okay (・∀・)

So reader has been part of the protocol for a while before iso (they joined just after gekko) and she's still a lone wolf then enters Iso. They would always coincidentally bump into each other and reader would just nod at him and walk past him even though Iso tries to strike up a conversation. (also reader is prone to getting hurt all the time whether it's on a mission or just a normal everyday fistfight with strangers)

One mission Iso and reader were both in the same team, timeskip to team entering battle, so reader pushes Iso out of the way and takes a hit resulting in reader being critically injured so when they got back to HQ Iso confronts them

Thanks for requesting! I will say, this was a little tough considering I don’t know much about Iso’s personality aside from what it says on the wiki. I apologize if this is ooc! Hopefully I did him justice!

Gender-Neutral Reader written, but input whichever gender you prefer/identify as if you’d like!

Summary: Lone wolf Reader keeps their distance from everyone- even from the newest recruit, Iso. Despite his best efforts to be friendly, conversations are avoided or cut short. But one fatal injury on the battlefield is the final straw, before Iso decides that he’s had enough of the ‘stand-off-ish’ façade, and demands answers. Does the reader actually give a shit or not?

Warnings: Some cursing, critical injury (nothing graphic), near death experience, possibly ooc Iso?

Word Count: 2.3k

Cold Shoulder

Reader x Iso

| Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 |

~

When Iso initially joined the Protocol, he was expecting to be treated with an air of caution. He was, quite literally, an assassin. And to boot, one that had been requested to target one of the Protocol's agents; Omen. Many were still skeptical of him- and he couldn't exactly blame them. For all they know, he could've joined Valorant to make his job easier to finish.

It had been a fair few weeks by that point. Some of the agents had come around, seeing that Iso wasn't just out for blood and, in fact, was seeking haven within their walls. His skills in the field proved expert, proving further to any doubters amongst VP's ranks that he was worth the risk; the myth incarnate.

Though he was far from the most impressive in the field. As arrogant as Iso could be, even he couldn't doubt the abilities of his fellow agents; with Reyna and Chamber both being most fascinating to him. The empress herself, and the expert marksman... could there be a more intriguing member to be drawn to?

Yes, actually.

Expert sniper rivalling even Chamber's ability, Y/N was incredible to witness on the battlefield, and Iso very quickly found himself drawn to his fellow agent. Swift, precise, seemingly always appearing at the right moment to save someone's ass; hell, even Yoru couldn't help but be grateful for Y/N's sharp eye.

Unfortunately for him, Y/N was notorious amongst the agents for being one of the coldest people there, keeping to themselves when not on a mission; even proving a tad short-tempered at times as well. They had quite the record for starting fights with certain agents-- okay, yes, it was Yoru, and yes, it was very much warranted.

Yet... Y/N intrigued him still. As a result, he did his very best to get on their good side. Complimenting their aim after a particularly close call, offering to grab them some coffee on cold mornings... he'd even tried to strike up a conversation once or twice. To no avail, sadly. But it didn't stop him from trying. He was nothing if not persistent.

"Y/N!" Iso raised his hand in greeting, as he spotted you across the hall, supposedly heading his way. Another chance, he thought- maybe he'd get some progress today. Y/N had noticed the newest agent greeting them, and nodded firmly in recognition. Did Iso... just get acknowledged? That was a first with you! It excited him a bit more than perhaps he might've thought.

"I saw you in the shooting range earlier... looked like you were having a competition with Phoenix. Heard you wiped the floor with him, good job." Iso started as you approached him. You gave a small shrug in response, hands in your pockets as your sniper rifle hung off your back. "It wasn't much of a challenge. He was too distracted with trying to impress me to... well, impress me. It was finished rather quick."

That didn't surprise Iso in the slightest. Phoenix did have a slight ego, always feeling the need to try and impress the newer agents in hopes of gaining their respect. So far it'd only really worked with Gekko and Harbor... and that was enough for him to do it even more frequently.

Before the assassin could open his mouth to add anything to the conversation, he found himself being brushed by rather quickly by you. His eyebrows knit together slightly in frustration as he turned just as you passed, reaching out to grab your shoulder.

"Y/N, wait-"

"Don't touch me." You scolded coldly, your tone enough to startle Iso into retracting his hand immediately. He cursed himself internally- why had he done that? He must've broken a boundary by touching you, even if it was innocently. Fuck.

"I'm sor-"

Slam went a door in his face. Your door. To your room. Had he been standing in front of your door this whole time...? God, how creepy he must've come off, he thinks. How come things always went to poorly when he tried to talk to you...?

Sighing heavily, he ran a hand through his hair, with the sound of his lone footsteps echoing down the now-empty hall. With an air of defeat, he resigned to go to his own room for the night. Maybe he'd have better luck with you tomorrow...

---------

A few days had passed since Iso's failed conversation attempt, and things with you were still as barren as ever. It frustrated him to no end, but there really wasn't much else he could do.

All too soon came the day when you and Iso were sent on a mission together. You seemed as indifferent as ever, whilst Iso saw it as another opportunity to try and win some form of your favor. But god, was he ever trying hard not to come off as overbearing.

The team was ordered to defend B site of Pearl, one of Iso's favorite spots out of all the locations the Protocol would send them; primarily because you were in your element. Staring down B Main with an Operator set up, waiting, watching... It'd be a lie to say that Iso wasn't staring. Your focus and intensity was... fascinating to watch. Iso was positioned at B Screen, meant to watch the side of the pillar that was out of your range. Emphasis on 'meant' to watch... As he was far too busy watching you in action to actually focus.

A bullet from your classic shot past him, jolting him out of his daze as he caught your glare. "Iso, focus. They could be rushing us any second." You scolded. As a result, Iso's face grew a fine shade of red out of embarrassment. You'd definitely just caught him staring, now he was completely thrown off. God. Could this mission get any worse, even though it barely started?

As if on cue, the mirror agents had rushed by the box atop B Ramp. Your heart dropped for a moment as you saw an enemy Chamber quickly set up from behind the box, scope aimed directly for Iso's head. Goddammit.

"Iso!" You shout to him, panic evident in your voice, which was... definitely new. Your tone was usually so monotone, empty, uncaring- but the second you saw your teammate's life in danger-

You were moving before you knew what was happening, abandoning your operator at your position as you ran forward. You'd managed to grab his arm, forcefully yanking him down as a bullet whizzed past, missing Iso by mere milliseconds. Now disoriented, Iso was shaken by his shoulders, meeting your steely gaze.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?! Aren't you supposed to be some kind of... myth or some shit? Where is your head at?" You hissed at him, causing Iso to swallow the nervous lump suddenly in his throat. Why was he so off his game today? Was it solely the fact he was put on a mission, at the same site as you? Was it--

Bullets began raining through the screen they were ducked behind, relentlessly. That was an Odin in action, easily- the inaccurate bullet holes said that much, since they were shooting from so far away-- though before you could properly assess the situation and form a plan, or even call for backup- you felt a searing pain in your shoulder. A pained hiss escaped from you as you instinctively pushed Iso away. Then another bullet, then another-

Before you could take more hits, you found Iso in front of you, sending his shield forward to stop anymore bullets from reaching you.

Throwing you into his arms, Iso took a running start and slid into B hall, where your operator was, setting you down by a wall. "Sage, I need backup at B site immediately!" Iso shouted into his coms, as he positioned himself at your Operator. His eyes bore into your soul as you felt a strong dizziness overtake you, the sound of the gunfire becoming a ringing in your ears.

"Don't you dare die on me, Y/N."

The last thing you remember is Iso firing your Operator, and the sound of the Odin stopping.

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

You awaken to the dim lighting of the infirmary, and a soreness throughout your torso. Moving to sit up was painful, forcing you to move slower as you got a feel for your surroundings. Looked to be about 3AM, based on the deafening silence. And the clock on the wall was a helpful indicator as well. Duh.

You rubbed your face, still feeling completely drained and exhausted. Looking down at your torso, you see nothing but a few new scars, presumably from where you'd been shot. A shoulder shot, one to the side, and one just narrowly avoiding your stomach. Any more bullets and you'd look like swiss cheese.

Once your senses were fully awake, you became acutely aware of another presence in the room. Your eyes shot towards where you sensed this presence, expecting to find Sage or maybe even Skye-

"Iso?"

Iso had been sat in a chair nearly, eyes closed resting, with a single earbud playing music into his ear. Usually he'd have both in and completely tune everything out after a mission- something you'd noticed the first few times you'd gone on a mission with him. A little thing to notice, you thought to yourself.

At the sound of your voice, though a tad hoarse from having just woken up, Iso's attention was directed to you immediately. His eyes widened in both surprise and relief, as he tossed his earbuds aside, and slid his chair over to your bedside. "Oh thank god. You've been out for days, I was starting to think Sage lied to me when she said you were stable." His voice was drenched in relief.

"You told me not to die on you. So I didn't. Just following orders." You started, earning a slight glare from your fellow agent, who didn't seem too pleased.

"Uh- no. No more of that." He interrupted you before you could say anything else, holding his hand up, as if to tell you it was his turn to speak. Your eyebrows furrow in confusion. "No more of what-?" You prompt slowly, not entirely sure why he seemed so upset. You were fine, weren't you?...

"This... whole thing you do!" Iso gestured vaguely at you, trying to find the proper words to convey his frustration, but it only left you more confused- and a little irritated.

"What are you talking abou-"

"You pretend not to give a shit about anybody, you give everyone the cold shoulder- you make it clear you don't want to associate with any of us. And then, for some reason, you basically throw yourself in front of an Odin to save me? Risked your life for someone who you've only ever pushed aside?" Iso's eyes narrowed at you as he speaks. You feel a strange nervousness twinge in your chest.

"Sage had to resurrect you, Y/N. You literally died for me! I just... don't understand what your deal is!"

You didn't notice until now, but... Iso was holding your hand in both his own. His voice was wavering, but he dared not subject you to anything further than that to show his fear.

You find yourself averting your gaze, noticing there's a single lilac on the table next to your bed.

"I... I apolog-... No. I'm sorry, Iso." You correct yourself, your usually-tense shoulders shifting to a more relaxed position, despite your mild discomfort at being called out like this. Had you really been so cold towards the other agents?

"Listen, I-... Don't exactly have an explanation that'll satisfy you." You admitted softly, causing Iso's gaze to soften in return. Sighing, you continue. "I've always... worked on my own. I never found a need to make connections with the people I happen to work alongside, because I know that... one of us is inevitably gonna leave, or die. It'll cause more grief than anything, getting close to people, only for them to be taken in the blink of an eye. I've been through my fair share of loses... and I'm just sick of how terrible it feels. It's better for me to just get by without getting too attached. Nobody gets hurt that way."

"I don't think you're thinking about this right at all." Iso piped up quietly, though there was an air of understanding laced in his words. "I was a fixer, Y/N. I worked solely on my own, like you. If I crossed the wrong kind of people, anyone I cared about could become weapons to be used against me for blackmail. It was only after joining the Protocol that I started opening up to others. After all, Valorant has promised to protect me from my employers, so any connections I make within Valorant are... safe. This is the only place I feel like I can make friends that won't be used against me, I guess." He wasn't able to keep his cheeks from reddening. Admitting all this was new for him, but... he thought that if he shared his own experience with you, maybe it would provide you the comfort you need to do what he did.

The silence in the room was heavy, and yet... it was oddly comforting to you. You actually had someone who understood where you come from. A small smile found its way onto your face, as you allowed your gaze to meet Iso's.

"I guess despite my best efforts... I ended up caring about someone after all. Some idiot who almost got a bullet to the forehead." You couldn't help but smirk faintly as you flicked Iso's forehead, causing the man to flinch in response. He shot you a slight glare, though no malice could be detected behind his eyes. He let out a sigh, shaking his head slowly.

"You're... never gonna let me live that down, are you, Y/N?"

"Nope."

[zmediaoutlet]

inspired by your tags on the smith and wesson gif set. would love to hear your thoughts on how dean being deanna change 'its a terrible life'

aha, delights in visuals ensue for one thing -- happy wincest wednesday and let's imagine Deanna Smith in management. 😍

Here are those tags tho --

#here's the thing #if there were a same-sex person in the elevator with me #even if they were talking about weird dreams #i would not assume they wanted to fuck me #perhaps that's a blindness on my part; nevertheless #dean on the other hand-- #spn #smith/wesson

...and, well, if Deanna Smith is standing in the elevator in her pencil skirt and her heels and her hair styled just so, and this gigantic IT guy looks at her too-intense and says I have these weird dreams, she is going to assume exactly what Dean Smith assumes, and for her it is an entirely different ballgame. She's management and she's pretty sure he won't -- do anything. But he keeps looking at her and he's hot even if he's using a very stupid pick-up line and she might go icy-cold with her voice but there's a flush starting somewhere under the pencil skirt and when she gets home she will have a very cold glass of chardonnay before she chastises herself for cheating on the diet and goes to spin class.

A few people have written super sexy manager Deanna and like, of course she'll end up fucking the giant hot IT guy -- like, sure, of course that's true, why wouldn't it be -- but I also think it's interesting to for once not go straight to incestuous fucking (! i know!) and instead think, again, about what Dean Smith tells us about Dean Winchester, and therefore what Deanna Smith tells us about her own counterpart. If it's okay let's just take my Deanna as read because i'm right because it'll be faster -- but when Zachariah lifts her out of that hospital bed and heals all her damage from what Alastair did, and gives her a softer better life, and puts her in her natural role of middle management (some authority, but still answering to higher powers), and gives her a job she can settle into...

I can still see the Prius and the juice cleanse and the Project Runway and the NPR and the just-so business attire (Ann Taylor, Nordstrom), and the fitting perfectly into the role given to her because that's what Dean always does. It just so happens that for Dean this was an emasculated metrosexual joke, and for Deanna this is a moderately empowering elevation to some actual respect. Deanna has a pretty-but-not-ostentatious mani/pedi and she's very, very good at her job, and she knows how to handle men because at Stanford in her engineering management classes they always thought she was too pretty to be smart, and the nice thing is that she's smart and pretty and knows how to use both of those things to get what she wants. When Mr. Adler comes to her office she smiles at him just so and her silky shell under her blazer gaps juuuust enough to be enticing but not unprofessional. She deals with her reports firmly but empathetically. She will, indeed, get that VP job in a few years. Or would, if this life were real.

When Mr Adler becomes Zachariah and the world goes from bright to mud, Deanna gasps and says ugh, I'm starving, and Zachariah tells her that her sense of dissatisfaction is because she's born to be a hunter, not some office drone, and Zachariah tells her she has a greater purpose -- that's all true. But Deanna didn't hate the mani/pedis, or the gossiping over a coffee break, or even the salads. She was parted from Sam and that was awful (although, bringing it back to w.w., her pussy might be aching from the pounding she got over the desk after that ghost hunt last night, and that's something they'll have to talk about either soon or never) -- but more than that it was a glimpse of the person she could've been if hunting hadn't landed in her lap. Deanna Smith was bored maybe, but not unhappy. The responsibility is always handed to Dean like it's some kind of glorious purpose, but fresh off hell and being a torturer and her brother slipping away into some demon bitch's arms instead of hers -- the Ann Taylor and the salads might be preferable.

[meret118]

First thoughts on The Diplomat season 2

Wow! It's terrific! I think it would have been even better with a normal length season, but it was still great. Totally worth the binge watch! :) Spoilers below.

Poor Ronnie! I figured if an american was going to die it would be the most minor character, but it's still sad. I'm very glad the impact of their death on the other characters wasn't downplayed.

So many great scenes! The Wyler's argument in the bedroom and the shoes. Stuart chewing Kate out. The fireworks and the aftermath.

Eidra is my new favorite. I hope she and Stuart don't get back together though. He asks her not to go to Cairo, even though that would be a promotion, asks her to go public with their relationship, even though he knows he may be going back to DC very soon, ambushes her with personal shit at work multiple times, refuses to believe they're over, and then says she's the problem. She deserves way better.

I hope we see more Dennison next season. I can't help but wonder if a lot of his scenes were cut for time. I would have liked him to tell Kate why he's supporting Trowbridge and wants nothing to do with her anymore for example, and what he thinks about how she's handled the whole thing. They primarily focused on the plot and the Wyler's relationship this season.

The story of Debora Cahn only doing six episodes when Netflix wanted eight because she was tired seems odd to me. If she needed more time or help why not ask them for it? They love the show, and renewed season three before this one even dropped. It just feels . . . odd to me.

I still loved the new season, except for one thing - I was shocked that Kate didn't push back on burying what really happened in the meeting with the PM etc. That seems totally OOC to me. It's practically the only time she's kept her mouth closed the whole show! Later, she even tells the VP what they know about her instead of lying or just saying orders from Billie and playing dumb. Keeping quiet is not in her nature, and burying it doesn't seem like advice she would give either, at least not right then.

Allison Janney rocks! She was manipulating Trowbridge of course, and Kate too. Until Billie reacted the way she did I wondered for a second if Hal lied so Kate would take the job. Shouldn't they tell Eidra about what Roylin told Hal?

Why is Kate so easily manipulated by Penn? Is it just because she's a woman too? The only other one who was able to do it, other than Hal, was Roylin in season one after all. Penn speaks, and it's like Kate completely changes her opinion to whatever Penn says every time. I hope we learn something to explain it. It just feels like bad writing in an otherwise brilliant show at the moment to me. Maybe the explanation was cut for time this season? (When she finally does stand up to Penn, it bites her in the ass of course.)

Hal just can't take the win. He has to go behind Kate's back. Again.

WOW! That ending!!!! I did not see that coming at all!

Favorite Lines:

1."Did you fuck him?"

"No!

". . ."

"I didn't."

"Were you planning to?"

"Yeah." (Said very matter of factly.)

2. "I didn't do this to you when you, when you kept things in the vault."

"Why did you never ask me?"

"Because I trusted you."

"I don't trust you. I don't. Do you trust you?"

"Is this the part of the conversation where you get mean because you're not getting what you want?"

"It's not mean. I love you, but this is based on something other than trust. That can't be news to you?"

"I need to eat something. You're making my head hurt."

So he has food sent up so she'll eat off his plate and drop it. Plus it's not his head that's hurting. Even though he's the one that has lied repeatedly their whole marriage. Yet in this case he's actually trying to protect her. . . . And so he can get his foot in the WH too. So many layers! :)

3. (About Scottish Independence) "They're nice, sweet people. They are cold all the time. Let them make their own decisions."

[rottenpumpkin13]

The boys all have insomnia, haven't slept in days, what do they do to try and get some rest?

Genesis: His genius idea is to max out the remaining energy he has by tiring himself out. Angeal takes him to the nearest playground and lets him run amok until he passes out on a slide. There are, of course, blackmail photos of this.

Angeal: Takes "i'd like to be knocked out with a shovel" to heart and acquires a shovel. Then in his sleep-deprived, disoriented state, pesters Sephiroth to knock him out with the shovel. Lazard catches Angeal threatening Sephiroth with the shovel and immediately gives him a day off to catch up on sleep.

Sephiroth: Sleep-deprived Sephiroth is so disconcerting and terrifying that, at the first encounter, Lazard orders mandatory rest.

*Sephiroth walks up to Lazard, eye twitching, bags under his eyes* Sephiroth: If our souls are bound to our flesh, does the decay of the body in death grant us the ultimate freedom? Lazard: GO TO SLEEP

Zack: Takes some strong, borderline illegal sleeping pills he purchased off Reno. The downside is that he has no idea when they'll kick in. Zack has the unfortunate luck of passing out right when Genesis pats him on the back encouragingly. Genesis thinks he killed him. Zack wakes up a few hours later in the trunk of a car.

Cloud: He's overworked, exhausted, and can't take a day off. Lucky for him, he's learned how to sleep standing up while on the job. + the fact he wears a helmet obscuring his eyes helps.

*Zack walks up to Cloud during his post* Zack: I need some serious life advice right now. Are you down? Cloud, asleep: Zack: Great! I'm thinking of kidnapping the VP's dog, entering it in a dog show competition, winning, and then returning the dog and earning the reward money, taking all the cash, and then buying a mansion in Costa Del Sol. But for that I need your help. Are you in? Cloud, asleep: Zack: Perfect! I'll drop off your ski mask at eight tonight.