#cloud application monitoring

[gsoftblogs]

Key Metrics You Need for Effective Cloud Application Monitoring

Explores the top metrics you need to track for effective cloud application monitoring. Understand why proactive monitoring is critical and how it benefits your business.

[daintilyultimateslayer]

CBDC technology partner India

As CBDCs become a global reality, Prodevans equips banks with everything needed to enter the digital currency ecosystem. We provide full-spectrum CBDC implementation — including compliant architecture, token management, real-time reconciliation, secure wallet enablement, and 24/7 L1/L2 support. Trusted for our role in India’s national rollout, we help institutions go beyond pilots to scalable, production-ready platforms ensuring seamless end- user readiness. Our services ensure central bank compliance while delivering performance, observability, and rapid response to evolving regulatory needs. Whether you’re in the pilot phase or preparing for production rollout, Prodevans supports your CBDC journey at every step.

OUR ADDRESS

403, 4TH FLOOR, SAKET CALLIPOLIS, Rainbow Drive, Sarjapur Road, Varthurhobli East Taluk, Doddakannelli, Bengaluru Karnataka 560035

OUR CONTACTS

contact@prodevans.com

+91 97044 56015

[goodoldbandit]

How to Use Telemetry Pipelines to Maintain Application Performance.

Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo. skm.stayingalive.in Optimize application performance with telemetry pipelines—enhance observability, reduce costs, and ensure security with efficient data processing. 🚀 Discover how telemetry pipelines optimize application performance by streamlining observability, enhancing security, and reducing costs. Learn key strategies and best…

[aarunresearcher]

United States green technology and sustainability market size reached USD 6.5 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 34.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 19.7% during 2025-2033. 

[rajaniesh]

Scaling Azure Container Apps for Peak Performance

In our last blog, we dove into optimizing deployments with Azure Pipelines, covering strategies for choosing the right agents and securing environment variables to ensure smooth, reliable updates. Now, let’s take things a step further. Once you’ve streamlined your deployment pipeline, the next challenge is making sure your Azure Container Apps can easily handle fluctuating demands. In this final…

[splitpointsolutions]

Why Monitoring User Experience is Crucial for Application Performance: Insights for a Network Monitoring Company

In the modern world where tight cooperation of different links in the chain is critical, monitoring user experience is not just a luxurious necessity but a must. For any application monitoring company, ensuring optimal performance and user satisfaction is at the core of their offerings. 

In this article, the author tries to explain why it is important to monitor the user experience and why is it good for the application performance especially for businesses using cloud-based network monitoring solutions.

Understanding User Experience Monitoring

User experience monitoring is a form of capturing as well as analyzing how the user of an application engages with the product. 

Based on its results, it works out several factors such as the time it takes to load the page, its speed, the frequency of errors, or the degree of satisfaction of the users. 

This aids organizations in getting insight into problematic events that may occur in real life and addressing them before they reach the customers.

For an application monitoring company, user experience monitoring goes beyond simple performance tracking. It gives a centralized perspective on how an application performs when in various states and how the performance is perceived to be affecting the business. 

With Cloud-Based Network monitoring it becomes easy for any user to monitor beyond just tracking. It provides a detailed view of how different conditions make the application behave.

Why User Experience Matters

First Impressions are Key: 

The first interaction of a user with an application is crucial for monitoring user experience. If the application fails to load or is slow it leaves a poor first impression. Monitoring user experience makes sure that these issues are resolved, enabling the network monitoring company to maintain a positive image.

Direct Impact on Revenue:

The performance of your application has a direct effect on the business revenue. 

If an application demands much time to open or the loading time is relatively high, a business may lose potential customers. The difference of one second in any conversion process can dramatically harm conversion rates and the resulting revenues. 

Hence through cloud-based network monitoring, organizations can identify performance problem areas and offer high-caliber applications.

Improved User Retention: 

Modern times expect fast and reliable applications. If these expectations are not met, then the bounce and churn rates are going to be high. Although the network monitoring company can continuously assess the quality of its services from the users’ standpoint, the clients’ applications would remain dependable, and therefore users would be retained and satisfied in the long run.

Identifying Hidden Issues:

With conventional approaches, it is possible that an organization might not notice other, less severe but very important factors such as slow page loading or even minute bugs. Monitoring networks on the cloud offers a comprehensive view that enables one to detect such pitfalls, which would otherwise fester and later blow up into considerable disruptions of a desirable positive user experience.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

User Experience Monitoring gives information on user interactions hence decisions may be made on the interfaces/UX design changes, new features, and performance enhancement. This helps a network monitoring company to better match its strategies with the user needs.

Supports Agile and DevOps Practices:

Monitoring of user experience is crucial in today’s tightly-knit development setting, especially when Agile and DevOps approaches are in use. They aid in guaranteeing that frequent launches and frequent software updates will not be a detriment, enabling the teams to retain excellent quality applications.

Role of Cloud-Based Network Monitoring in User Experience

Cloud-based network monitoring offers scalability and flexibility, enabling it to efficiently handle large data volumes and diverse user bases across multiple geographies, ensuring consistent performance even during high-traffic periods. 

The use of real-time alerts allows cloud-based monitoring solutions to detect performance anomalies in real-time so that a network monitoring company may prompt remedial action before such issues interfere with client experience. 

Further, it offers full coverage of the application and the server response issues, network latency, and third parties it's used in to ensure that issues are easily spotted and fixed to maintain efficiency. 

Furthermore, cloud computing can provide an efficient way of monitoring as it does not require huge infrastructure on its own, which plays an advantage to small to mid-sized companies that are involved in network monitoring services business.

Best Practices for Effective User Experience Monitoring

Leverage Real-User Monitoring (RUM):

Real-user monitoring produces real-world user scenarios and generates metrics regarding the availability of users as well as the behavior of applications under varying conditions.

Use Synthetic Monitoring:

Synthetic monitoring mimics actual user presence so that engineers can have an idea of the various glitches present before being reported by the users.

Employ Advanced APM Tools:

Application Performance Monitoring tools give further details of backend problems including slow query to the database or poorly performing APIs.

Cover All Devices and Platforms:

Check that all your monitoring is cross-device and cross-platform to make sure all your clients are being serviced properly.

Integrate with Cloud-Based Monitoring:

Combining user experience monitoring with cloud-based network monitoring offers a complete view of both frontend and backend performance, helping resolve issues holistically.

Conclusion

Maintaining metrics of the applied user experience is an important endeavor in the contemporary environment for guaranteeing the performance of the application and the value it offers the users. 

For a network monitoring company, this means the possibility to add user experience monitoring as a value-added service to their portfolio which will result in improved business performance. Utilizing cloud-based network monitoring solutions enables companies to gain real-time insights, resolve issues proactively, and maintain a high level of application performance.

Indeed, it is not only about mitigation of problems but it is about improving the user experience once the proper monitoring practices are employed. 

A network monitoring company can therefore create synergy when working towards ensuring that user satisfaction as well as application performance is to ensure that long-lasting relationship with their clients is fostered hence enhancing user retention and ultimately business success in today’s digital world.

[grey-space-computing]

Unlocking Efficiency & Growth: A Guide to Oracle Integration Cloud Services

In today’s time, businesses are constantly seeking ways to optimize their operations and drive growth. One solution that has emerged as a game-changer is Oracle Integration Cloud Services (ICS). This comprehensive platform offers a wide range of tools and capabilities designed to streamline processes, integrate applications, and unlock efficiency across the organization. In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Oracle ICS, exploring its features, benefits, and how it can empower businesses to achieve their goals.

Understanding Oracle Integration Cloud Services

At its core, Oracle ICS is a cloud-based integration platform that enables seamless connectivity between various applications, systems, and data sources. Whether it’s connecting on-premises applications with cloud-based solutions or integrating disparate systems within the organization, Oracle ICS provides the flexibility and scalability needed to simplify complex integration challenges.

Key Features and Capabilities

Oracle ICS offers a plethora of features and capabilities designed to streamline integration processes and drive efficiency. Some key highlights include:

1. Drag-and-Drop Integration:

With an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, users can easily create and configure integrations without the need for extensive coding or technical expertise.

2. Prebuilt Integrations:

Oracle ICS comes with a library of prebuilt integrations for popular applications and services, allowing businesses to quickly connect their systems and accelerate time to value.

3. Real-Time Monitoring:

The platform provides real-time monitoring and analytics capabilities, giving users visibility into the performance of their integrations and enabling proactive problem-solving.

4. Robust Security:

Oracle ICS prioritizes security and compliance, with built-in encryption, access controls, and data protection features to safeguard sensitive information.

Benefits of Oracle Integration Cloud Services

The adoption of Oracle ICS offers numerous benefits for businesses looking to optimize their operations and drive growth:

1. Improved Efficiency:

By streamlining integration processes and automating repetitive tasks, Oracle ICS helps businesses reduce manual effort and increase productivity.

2. Enhanced Agility:

With its flexible architecture and scalability, Oracle ICS enables businesses to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and customer demands.

3. Cost Savings:

By eliminating the need for costly custom integrations and reducing reliance on IT resources, Oracle ICS helps businesses lower their overall integration costs.

4. Accelerated Innovation:

With faster time to market for new initiatives and the ability to quickly test and iterate on ideas, Oracle ICS empowers businesses to innovate and stay ahead of the competition.

Grey Space Computing: Your Partner in Efficiency and Growth

At Grey Space Computing, we recognize the critical importance of efficiency and growth in today’s business landscape. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce you to Oracle Integration Cloud Services (ICS) – a transformative solution designed to revolutionize the way businesses operate. Serving as a cornerstone in our mission to empower businesses with cutting-edge technology solutions, Oracle ICS seamlessly integrates applications, systems, and data sources to streamline processes and drive efficiency across the organization.

We understand the complexities of modern integration challenges and are committed to simplifying the process for our clients. With Oracle ICS’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface and extensive library of prebuilt integrations, our clients can effortlessly connect their systems and accelerate time to value.

Furthermore, Oracle ICS’s real-time monitoring and analytics capabilities provide invaluable insights into integration performance, enabling proactive problem-solving and optimization. Security is a top priority, with Oracle ICS implementing robust measures to ensure sensitive information remains protected.

The benefits of Oracle ICS extend far beyond efficiency gains. By reducing manual effort, increasing productivity, and facilitating cost savings, businesses can achieve improved efficiency, enhanced agility, and accelerated innovation.

FAQs

What is Oracle Integration Cloud Services (ICS)?

Oracle ICS is a cloud-based integration platform that facilitates seamless connectivity between various applications, systems, and data sources.

What are the key features of Oracle Integration Cloud Services?

Oracle ICS offers drag-and-drop integration, prebuilt integrations, real-time monitoring, and robust security features.

How can Oracle ICS benefit my business?

Oracle ICS can improve efficiency, enhance agility, reduce costs, and accelerate innovation within your organization.

How does Grey Space Computing support businesses in implementing Oracle ICS?

Grey Space Computing provides comprehensive support and expertise to help businesses seamlessly implement and optimize Oracle ICS within their operations.

Conclusion:

Grey Space Computing is dedicated to helping businesses unlock efficiency and drive growth through Oracle Integration Cloud Services. With its comprehensive features, intuitive interface, and robust security, Oracle ICS provides the foundation for seamless integration and collaboration across the organization. Contact us today to learn how Grey Space Computing and Oracle ICS can propel your business forward.

[caramel12345]

Azure Consulting: Tailored Solutions for You | FYI Solutions

Azure consulting that adapts to your needs. Navigate the complexities of cloud computing with our expertise, ensuring your success in every endeavor. Visit Today https://fyisolutions.com

[nwspl]

Best Cloud Server Management Services in Dwarka Delhi By NWSPL

Cloud Server Management refers to the process of overseeing and controlling the various aspects of servers hosted in a cloud computing environment. In a cloud setup, servers are virtualized instances that run on physical hardware maintained by a cloud service provider. Effective management of these cloud servers is essential to ensure optimal performance, reliability, security, and cost efficiency. Here are key components and activities associated with cloud server management:

Provisioning and Deployment:

Description: Cloud server management involves the creation, configuration, and deployment of virtual servers as needed. This includes selecting the appropriate server specifications, operating system, and other settings based on the requirements of the applications or workloads.

2. Resource Scaling:

Description: Cloud environments allow for dynamic scaling of resources. Cloud server management includes the ability to scale server resources up or down based on changing demand. This ensures that the infrastructure can adapt to varying workloads efficiently.

3. Monitoring and Performance Optimization:

Description: Continuous monitoring of server performance metrics is a crucial aspect of cloud server management. Administrators use monitoring tools to track factors such as CPU usage, memory utilization, and network performance. Optimization strategies are then employed to enhance overall efficiency.

4. Security and Access Control:

Description: Ensuring the security of cloud servers is paramount. Cloud server management involves implementing security measures such as firewalls, encryption, and access controls. Administrators define user roles and permissions to restrict access to sensitive data and configurations.

5. Backup and Disaster Recovery:

Description: Cloud service management panel includes the implementation of backup strategies to safeguard data. Administrators set up regular backup schedules and develop disaster recovery plans to mitigate the impact of unforeseen events or data loss.

6. Patch Management and Updates:

Description: Keeping servers up-to-date with the latest patches and updates is critical for security and performance. Cloud server management services in dwarka delhi involves the systematic application of software updates to address vulnerabilities and improve functionality.

7. Cost Management:

Description: Cloud resources come with associated costs. Effective cloud server management includes monitoring resource usage and implementing cost-saving measures. This may involve rightsizing servers, optimizing configurations, and leveraging reserved instances.

8. Automation:

Description: Automation is a key element of cloud server management. Tasks such as provisioning, scaling, and configuration changes can be automated to streamline operations, reduce manual errors, and enhance overall efficiency.

9. Compliance and Auditing:

Description: Cloud server management includes ensuring compliance with industry regulations and organizational policies. Regular audits are conducted to assess and verify that servers adhere to security and compliance standards.

10. Troubleshooting and Support:

Description: In the event of issues or failures, cloud server management involves troubleshooting and providing support to ensure quick resolution. This includes identifying root causes, implementing fixes, and communicating with stakeholders.

In summary, cloud server management is a comprehensive set of activities aimed at maintaining the health, security, and efficiency of servers hosted in a cloud environment. It requires a combination of technical expertise, automation, and strategic planning to effectively leverage the benefits of cloud computing while meeting the specific needs of the organization.

Why Choose NWSPL for Cloud Server Management in Dwarka:

Expertise: Our team comprises seasoned professionals well-versed in the intricacies of cloud server management, offering unparalleled expertise to meet the diverse needs of our clients.

Comprehensive Solutions: From provisioning and scaling to security and compliance, NWSPL provides end-to-end cloud server management solutions, tailored to your specific business requirements.

Innovation: We stay at the forefront of technological advancements, incorporating the latest tools and best practices to keep your cloud infrastructure at the pinnacle of efficiency.

Reliability: Count on NWSPL for reliable, 24/7 monitoring, ensuring that your cloud servers consistently deliver peak performance and are ready to adapt to changing demands.

Cost Optimization: Our strategic approach to cloud server management includes cost-saving measures, ensuring that you get the most value from your cloud investments without compromising on performance.

Client-Centric Approach: At NWSPL, client satisfaction is paramount. We work closely with our clients, understanding their unique needs and delivering solutions that align with their business objectives.

Cloud Server Management Services:

NWSPL excels in providing best cloud server management services. Whether you are a startup or an established enterprise, our team of experts ensures the seamless operation of your cloud infrastructure. From deployment to maintenance, we handle it all, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.

Managed Cloud Hosting:

Our managed cloud hosting services offer a secure and scalable hosting solution tailored to meet your specific business needs. With NWSPL as your hosting partner, you can enjoy the benefits of high-performance hosting, automatic backups, and 24/7 support, ensuring your website or application runs smoothly without any downtime.

Server Monitoring for Peak Performance:

At NWSPL, we understand the critical importance of server monitoring cloud. Our proactive monitoring services ensure that potential issues are identified and resolved before they impact your operations. This proactive approach to server management guarantees optimal performance and minimizes downtime.

Software as a Service (SaaS):

In the era of cloud computing, NWSPL provides innovative SaaS solutions to streamline your business processes. From collaboration tools to customer relationship management (CRM) systems, our SaaS offerings are designed to enhance efficiency and productivity.

In conclusion, NWSPL in Dwarka, Delhi, stands as a comprehensive solution provider for your digital needs. By combining social media amplification, SEO strategies, and top-tier cloud server management services, we empower your brand to thrive in the dynamic and competitive online landscape. Partner with NWSPL to unlock the full potential of your digital presence and propel your business to new heights.

[ourjobagency]

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the cloud has emerged as a transformative technology that empowers businesses with flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Migrating to the cloud is no longer an option but a necessity to stay competitive. 

[azzifudd10]

Somewhere To Land

Chapter 6: New Beginnings

The first thing Azzi noticed when she woke up was the silence — the rare kind that only came in the calm before a storm. Monday loomed like a dark cloud on the horizon, but right now, the weekend stretched out in front of her like a gift. Her last full two days with Eli before work.

She rolled over, gaze landing on the baby monitor. Eli was still sleeping, arms flung out, his soft belly rising and falling in the crib she’d pulled beside her bed the night before. He looked so peaceful, like nothing in the world could touch him.

Azzi rubbed her eyes, then slid out of bed.

The first thing she did was make pancakes shaped like stars.

By the time Eli woke with a raspy giggle and sleepy eyes, the apartment smelled like cinnamon and syrup. She scooped him into her arms and pressed a kiss to his curly head.

“Good morning, sweet boy. You ready to hang out with Mommy all day?”

He babbled in response, clutching her hoodie with one hand and patting her cheek with the other.

They ate together — or rather, Azzi ate while Eli smeared mashed banana and pancake bits across the tray of his highchair and smiled proudly. She didn’t even mind the mess. She took pictures. Videos. She made a whole folder on her phone just titled “Last Weekend.”

10:34 a.m.

They went to the park.

Azzi packed a blanket, snacks, sunscreen, toys, and a worn copy of Corduroy. She laid it all out under a shady tree and let Eli crawl in the grass, giggling whenever a breeze lifted his curls or a ladybug landed near him.

She read aloud while he played with a teether, pausing only when he leaned his head on her thigh, eyes heavy. She brushed her fingers through his hair and whispered, “I’m going to miss this so much.”

He didn’t answer, of course. But in that moment, his warm weight against her legs, the way his fingers curled into the edge of her shirt — it felt like he understood.

Azzi – Sunday, 8:18 a.m.

By Sunday, it had started to sink in.

The toys scattered across the living room. The bassinet shoved awkwardly between the couch and the window. The narrow kitchen counter where she stacked formula and bottles. The pile of bills under a magnet shaped like a cat.

She loved this apartment. It had been her first place on her own.

But it felt like it was shrinking around her.

Azzi sat on the couch while Eli napped and opened her laptop. Just out of curiosity, she told herself. Just to see what was out there.

She typed in “2-bedroom apartment, Dallas, washer/dryer in unit.”

One of the first listings that caught her eye It was perfect everything she had wanted.

2:01 p.m.

Azzi held Eli on her hip, diaper bag slung over her shoulder, and rang the buzzer. The leasing agent met her in the lobby, smiling wide.

“Come on up! It’s a quiet unit — great lighting, top floor, freshly painted.”

The elevator ride felt too fast. Her heart thudded harder with every ding.

When the doors opened and they stepped out into the hallway, Azzi’s breath caught in her throat..

“This is it,” the agent said, unlocking the door.

Azzi stepped inside.

The apartment was larger than hers — open floor plan, big windows, new flooring. The second bedroom was perfect for a nursery. There was even a little balcony with space for plants.

Eli squealed and flailed his arms, clearly in love with the echo his laugh made in the empty room.

Azzi smiled faintly. “You like it, huh?”

The agent handed her a folder. “Take your time. Let me know if you want to apply.”

Sunday Night – 9:57 p.m.

Azzi sat on her couch, Eli asleep in her lap, her laptop open on the armrest.

She looked between the listing and her son.

Then she opened a new tab and started the application.

It was just… more space. A fresh start. Something Eli deserved.

But as she clicked "submit," her heart pounded — not with fear, but with something more electric. Something that lingered.

Wednesday, 6:42 p.m.

The email came while Azzi was trying to coax Eli into taking his evening bottle — half-asleep in her arms, cheeks flushed and heavy-lidded from a long day.

Subject: Lease Approved — Welcome Home!

Azzi blinked at the screen, her heart lurching.

It was done. The apartment was hers.

She glanced down at Eli, brushing his curls gently. “Looks like we got a new home, baby.”

He let out a soft snore in response, the bottle slipping from his lips.

Azzi laughed quietly and tucked her phone away, her mind already buzzing with packing lists and moving day logistics.

Thursday, 11:13 a.m. — Text from Azzi to Nai:

Got the apartment! We’re moving next weekend. I’ll send you the address  🫠

Nai’s reply came fast:

Wait—seriously? That’s Paige’s building.

Azzi paused, staring at her screen like it had betrayed her.

What do you mean? she replied.

Like literally her building. I think she’s on that floor. Wild, right?

Azzi slowly lowered the phone to her lap.

The butterflies that fluttered through her chest were the annoying kind — the ones that felt way too much like anticipation.

Friday, 8:47 p.m. — Azzi’s POV

It was the end of a long week — Eli had settled in at Little Sprouts better than she’d expected, and though her shifts had been tiring, she was starting to feel her footing again.

And somehow, through all the chaos, she found herself standing outside the Wings’ practice facility. Nai had invited her to come by for a bit, said she and Paige would be finishing up soon.

Paige was the one who spotted her first, towel draped around her neck, cheeks flushed from drills.

She grinned. “Hey, stranger.”

Azzi smiled back. “Hey.”

“Eli doing okay?”

“Yeah, he’s loving daycare so far. I think they’ve already won him over with snacks and lullabies.”

Paige laughed, pushing open the gym door for her. “That sounds about right.”

They sat together on the bleachers, waiting for Nai to finish a final meeting with the trainer.

Azzi hesitated for a second, then said, “I actually wanted to tell you something.”

Paige leaned in, curious. “What’s up?”

“I’m moving,” Azzi said softly. “Next weekend.”

Paige blinked. “Wait — really? Where?”

Azzi named the street, then the complex.

Paige stared at her.

Azzi tilted her head. “What?”

Paige blinked again, then grinned slowly. “You’re moving into my building.”

Azzi’s brows lifted. “No I’m not.”

“Yes, you are,” Paige said, clearly amused. “I live on that floor. What unit?”

Azzi told her.

Paige’s mouth dropped open. “That’s literally across from mine.”

Azzi’s jaw dropped too. “You’re joking.”

“Nope.” Paige leaned back, laughing. “Guess we’re neighbors now.”

Azzi groaned dramatically, covering her face with both hands. “Oh my god.”

Paige nudged her shoulder. “It’s not so bad. I’m very quiet. Only occasionally play Drake at full volume.”

“I knew I should’ve triple-checked the address,” Azzi muttered, but she was smiling now.

Paige stood and stretched. “You need help moving? I’ve got a free afternoon Sunday.”

Azzi looked up at her, surprised.

“You’d help?”

“Of course.” Paige smiled, soft and sure. “I mean, what kind of neighbor would I be if I didn’t?”

Saturday Morning, 7:05 a.m.

Azzi stood in her apartment, surrounded by half-packed boxes and Eli babbling in the corner.

Her phone buzzed.

Paige: Want me to bring coffee before we get started?

Azzi stared at the message for a beat too long, then replied:

Yeah. You know what I like.

Her smile lingered even as she turned back to tape up another box — heart full of nerves, and something else she wasn’t quite ready to name.

Sunday, 8:03 a.m.

Azzi was tying her hair up into a messy bun when the knock came.

She cracked the door open, blinking in the morning light.

Paige stood there with two coffees in hand, hair pulled into a loose ponytail, dressed in a faded UConn hoodie and black joggers. A lazy grin tugged at her lips.

“Morning, neighbor.”

Azzi stepped aside, smirking. “You’re early.”

“I believe in punctuality and bribes,” Paige said, holding out one of the cups. “Oat milk, light cinnamon, one pump vanilla. I paid attention last time.”

Azzi blinked, taken aback for a second before accepting it. “You remembered that?”

Paige shrugged, walking into the half-empty apartment. “I remember the important things.”

8:42 a.m.

Eli was awake and cooing in his playpen when Paige knelt beside him.

“Hey, little man,” she murmured, reaching out a hand.

He stared at her for a long beat before breaking into a gummy grin, kicking his feet like he recognized her.

Azzi watched from the kitchen, heart tugging painfully in her chest.

Paige had the kind of easy presence Eli responded to — gentle but firm, silly but grounded.

“He likes you,” Azzi said, voice quiet.

Paige glanced back at her. “I like him too.”

10:17 a.m.

The apartment was chaos. Boxes were stacked along every wall, labeled in Azzi’s neat handwriting. Clothes in piles. Bottles wrapped in newspaper. Half of Eli’s toys already loaded into the car Nai had dropped off earlier that morning.

Paige hauled the heaviest boxes like it was nothing. “You packed your whole life in here,” she teased.

Azzi snorted. “You try living in a small place with a baby and not having twenty versions of everything.”

“Touché,” Paige said, straightening. “But still — you didn’t have to do all this alone.”

Azzi paused mid-wrap on a picture frame, shoulders tensing.

“I usually do,” she said.

Paige didn’t say anything for a second.

Then, softly: “Well, you don’t have to now.”

12:04 p.m. — Arrival

The door to the new apartment creaked open, and Azzi stepped in with Eli balanced on her hip.

“I can’t believe we’re neighbors,” she muttered.

Paige grinned behind her. “Destiny.”

Azzi rolled her eyes. “More like poor planning.”

But there was something easy in her smile now, like she didn’t hate it nearly as much as she pretended to.

They began unloading.

Azzi directed, Paige carried. Every once in a while, their fingers brushed — passing tape, setting down a box — and the spark lingered longer each time.

Eli babbled and squealed, happily playing in a pile of bubble wrap while they worked around him.

2:36 p.m. — Lunch Break

They sat on the floor, eating tacos from a takeout bag, surrounded by half-unpacked boxes.

Azzi leaned back against the wall, bare feet stretched out. “I don’t remember moving being this exhausting.”

“You didn’t have a baby last time,” Paige pointed out, sipping from a cold soda.

Azzi laughed. “True.”

She looked over at Paige, her voice quieter now. “Thanks for helping.”

Paige turned to meet her eyes. “You don’t have to thank me. I wanted to.”

There was a beat of silence, heavier than the rest.

Azzi looked away first.

4:17 p.m. — The Nursery

They stood in the empty second bedroom, boxes labeled ELI stacked against the walls.

Azzi ran her hand along the windowsill. “I’m going to make this nice for him. Soft colors. Maybe stars.”

Paige smiled gently. “He’s lucky to have you.”

Azzi turned, surprised by the warmth in Paige’s voice.

“You really think so?”

“I know so,” Paige said. “He doesn’t even know how lucky yet. But he will.”

Azzi looked down, throat tightening.

“Sometimes I wonder if I’m enough for him,” she admitted.

“You are,” Paige said firmly. “And you don’t have to be everything alone.”

Azzi didn’t answer, but her eyes shimmered.

6:01 p.m.

By the time most of the boxes were unpacked, the apartment didn’t feel empty anymore. Eli had fallen asleep in his travel crib, thumb in his mouth.

Paige leaned against the doorframe. “I should probably head out.”

Azzi walked her to the door, arms folded loosely over her chest.

“Thanks again. Really.”

Paige lingered. “Anytime.”

She hesitated, then added, “You know, if you ever need anything — diapers, dinner, someone to cry to — just knock.”

Azzi chuckled softly. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Their eyes held for a moment too long.

Then Paige stepped back into the hallway, the door clicking softly behind her.

Azzi stood there for a few seconds, heartbeat fluttering, then turned back inside.

The apartment was quiet again. But it didn’t feel lonely.

[infimace-blog]

IT is a baffling job. There's an application. You understand it more than almost anybody, but also you understand basically nothing. You monitor it. You replace the links. You pick the rocks out of its hooves. When it gets sick, the sickness raises like clouds above the sky and rains down like acid and the common folk will beg you for succor. You are their intercessor between the application. You are the only thing protecting the application from those who would foul it out of incompetence. You are the first priest of an incomprehensible god and the girl in overalls taming an impossibly skittish horse. It is a love like hell.

[docgold13]

Heroes & Villains The DC Animated Universe - Paper Cut-Out Portraits and Profiles

Edwin Alva

The founder and chief executive officer of Alva Industries, Edwin Alva Sr. was sinister and unscrupulous industrialist who never paused in putting innocent people in danger in his pursuit for wealth and success.  His scientists discovered the Quantum Vapor finding that the substance possessed profound mutagenic properties that could drastically alter the human genome.  Greatly intrigued by the potential commercial applications of the Quantum Vapor, Alva arranged for a deplorable and inhuman experiment to test the effects of the vapor on human subjects.  

Alva had learned that a group of street gangs had planned on congregating at the Dakota Docks.  Alva arranged for a cloud of the vapor to be released at the docks, exposing everyone there.  He had no idea if this would prove fatal, but determined that it was merely gang members from an impoverished urban area whom no one important would miss.  

The Quantum Vapor ended up transforming all who breathed it in.  Most were bestowed with a variety of different metahuman powers and attributes.  Uncertain how to best monetize this development, Alva continued to monitor the activities of those effected while obfuscating any involvement by himself and his company.  The heroic Static came to suspect Alva’s involvement in the releasing of the Quantum Vapor and the creation of the ‘Bang Babies.’  Aware of Static’s investigation, Alva took steps to try to take the hero out; although fortunately the hero managed to evade these efforts to do him in.  

It was only after Alva’s oft-neglected son, Edwin Jr. exposed himself to the Quantum Vapor that the villain began seeking a means of reserving the effects of the vapor.  Alva arranged for the abduction of Rubberband Man, Talon and Gear as his test subjects in his search for a cure.  Static ended up joining forces with his enemy Hotstreak in a successful effort to free those Alva had abducted.  Although Edwin Jr. was ultimately cured, Alva himself continued to shirk his culpability in the whole affair.  Whether or not the villain was ever made to pay for his many crimes has yet to be revealed.  

Actor Kerrigan Mahan provided the voice for Edwin Alva Sr. with the villain first appearing in the second episode of the first season of Static Shock, ‘Aftershock.’  

[holly-fixation]

Seraphic and Sinister

Summary: Sephiroth learns that he has a child, a lab made specimen existing under the same terrible conditions he was raised in. In a moment of pure rage, he rescues his child. However, his fate has long been sealed, but the child’s fate is unknown. 

Never did he expect the cadet that killed him to take responsibility for the heir of His planet. 

Inspired by various asks to @rottenpumpkin13 

Please Enjoy.

…

Chapter 1: Violation

Hojo's laboratory. 

The unwelcoming decor was an unwanted second home to the Silver Soldier of Shinra. The sterile air, the artificial light, the deep echoes of the halls. He hated it. He hated being here but it was required. Every attempt to convince the higher ups that this was not necessary ended in complete failure and laughter from the scientist he hated most. 

These monthly appointments were not his choice. The board made that explicitly clear.

Worst of all in this terrible laboratory, he hated seeing the specimens, the creatures and monsters created to either die or be observed. Every ounce of their suffering was monitored twenty four hours a day. These hallways and these creatures remained within memories for as far as he could recall them. Each tile on the floor was mapped to perfect recollection after all his years. Medium cages, examination room, training room, large mako tanks, large cages, electric pipelines, monitors, sealed cages-

He stopped in his tracks.

But this observation glass was new, as was the darkened screen between the window and the door. Normally he would turn away in disgust at this new experiment, to ignore it and hope its usefulness ended soon for its own sake. But he didn't. He felt a churn in his stomach. A weight in his chest. Something pushing him toward the control pad beyond what he could call ‘curiosity’. All new experiments were in the back of the lab, so why was this added in the main hallway?

The screen brightened with the usual Shintra log in page, both the username and password fields left blank. He didn't know Hojo's information, however, he input his own credentials despite the threat that said doctor could discover his attempt and use it against him. 

The screen immediately opened to a document application, white light reflecting on his skin. A new folder appeared within his personal pages without the cloud icon beside it, one that did not belong and did not make sense to him. Only one word titled the folder: Theory. Checking within he found dozens of seemingly new reports. What were these? Why were they there?

He opened one.

Each line captured his attention no matter the horror that laid behind it. 

Pregnancy continuing with expected complications. Monitor for sudden nutrition loss. 

Host uninjured at 30 weeks. Chances of successful production promising.

Child born July 7, 1997, 07:07. A healthy female. 7 pounds, 3 ounces. Unexpectedly vocal.

Host returned to home in [REDACTED]. Monitor residence and continue pension until host expires or conspires to spread word of the child. 

Under direct presidential order, the child's designation must be similar to the designation of its father. (Since the oaf apparently cannot tell the difference between a fully grown masterpiece and a new experiment)

Child's designation agreed upon: Seraphina. Discontinue use of “Girl” and “Soldier”. Previous designations used only during negative reinforcement. 

Child portrays signs of scotopia. Disable emergency lights at PM to encourage proper rest.

Child reaching 120.3 decibels. Install sound panels. 

Child begins walking. 

Presidential three month review. Deemed nothing of note. Project to be discontinued if results continue at current rate. 

Implementation of mako in diet. Child's eyes begin displaying common symptoms within seven days. 

10 mL mako injection through shoulder. Constant protest. Consequences earned. To be repeated every four weeks until further notice.

Child fully healed in 23.4 hours. 

Diet transferred to commercial protein shakes until solid food can be consumed.

Child's strength becomes difficult to manage. Separate child from active lab tables. 

Child maintains current record of 120.3 decibels whenever reacting to impact. When older, remedy this. 

Technicians arrived to child sitting on a work desk beside activated soldering iron. Child showed no reaction to tool. Child held photo snatched from the current desk: A selfie of a technician's offspring with a cardboard cut out of Sephiroth. The offspring is smiling.

Child cracked glass with latest scream when photo was removed. Consequences distributed as necessary. 

Child suddenly becomes silent. Literacy and mathematic skills difficult to judge with minimal reactions. 

Child cries at night. Child exhibiting signs of nyctophobia despite scotopia. Note: habit must be removed by age three. 

Child is given a Second Class sword. Child shows promise with a weapon. 

Child is shown video of Sephiroth training at age twelve. Child is thoroughly engaged. Child attempts to copy technique. 

Presentation for president confirmed. 

Six month presidential review begins. Child referred to by name with president's approval. 

Child is placed in room with a single robotic arm as room size slowly decreased. Child is severely injured but defeats robot. 

President Shinra demands an alternate display of abilities. 

Pain endurance trial begins. 

Child endures 5X volume of [REDACTED] than average adult human male before losing consciousness. 

Project permitted to continue. 

Wound heals. Child unable to walk properly. Signs point to lingering [REDACTED] in child's body. 

Three day recovery period begins. Check status every three hours.

Sephiroth couldn't stop reading every horrible detail on the page, every memory of his own childhood rushing him at the thought of another- no, not just another child- his child: one made without his knowledge or consent. He felt his hands click links to further documentation, his eyes scanning every detail dangerously before an image opened. 

A video. No, not a video, live footage of the blacked out room before him. A small part of him expected to see his silver hair on a tiny child, to finally see the trait on someone other than himself. 

But he didn't. Even through the shading greens of dark vision recordings, he could tell her hair was black, tiny specks interfering with the recording as if pixels glitched exactly where her hair portrayed through the screen.

The child was trying to walk, and only when she turned did he see the thick bandages around her thigh. Back and forth she limped through the room, never acknowledging the thin sword on the ground, the stacked weights by her crib, or the books on her desk. ‘Her’. None of it was truly hers. Every inch of her life belonged to Shinra and Shinra alone. She did not ask to be brought into this world. Hojo forced her mother, forced her, into this den and left with gil in hand as she wailed in abandonment. And he, her father, stood behind glass after six months of the same agony he suffered. 

He put his PIN into the digital keypad by the door. 

Access denied. 

He tried again, slower, deliberate, confirming each and every input to follow his code. 

Access denied. 

He was given access to the files. Why couldn’t he enter the room? Why was Hojo continuing with these useless mind games? His chest boiled. His brows were furrowed. He brought his shaking hand to his heart and bowed his head, trying to remember the feeling of the locket once kept there, wanting guidance before he made a decision or one was made for him.

He was…angry. No. No- it was much more than that. This child didn’t deserve his suffering. His child didn’t deserve this imprisonment or the genocide missions that laid before her.

She deserved a normal life. 

He summoned his blade to his side and slashed the metal door. The lights above shifted to crimson and a siren blared in his ears but he refused to stop. He refused to allow Hojo another violation into his life and the life of his child. He attacked until there was nothing but a pile of debris between him and his daughter.

Sephiroth took his first step into the room to find the child holding her own blade against him as her body shook with the struggle to maintain his old battle stance, standing against the crib. Why was a child- no- not even a child- why was a baby forced to learn these instincts? 

Why wasn’t he enough to stop this from ever happening again?

He hoped it wasn’t too late.

She looked different than he expected. Her skin was a few notches paler than his own. What he assumed were failing pixels in photos and in videos were actually her hair; a codominant display of his silver piercing through solid black. It reminded him of stars shimmering in the night sky, the vast expanse she was never permitted to see. 

No matter what, that changed today. 

He returned his sword and held both his hands in open caution as he kneeled down, making himself smaller and hopefully less threatening. He tried to soften his expression. She was so delicate. He couldn’t be harsh with her. He didn’t want to be harsh with her. “I will not hurt you. Do you know who I am?” 

The recognition in her eyes only elevated his rage, the smallest nod of her head. She glanced down and her eyes rapidly searched the air around her. Her mako blue, cat like eyes; slit pupils against the soldier trademark. If there was any doubt in his heart that this was only another one of Hojo’s tests, it vanished completely. 

“It’s alright. You’re safe.” 

The hard look in her eyes did not change. He wanted to strangle the scientist. 

“You don’t have to say it the right way. Hojo’s not here. He won’t punish you and I will never let him see you again. Say what you think is right. Don’t think about-”

“Dada…” 

Time froze. His heart skipped a beat. 

She looked embarrassed and afraid, her voice weak and tiny and barely above a breath. He hated that he was correct. She said it again as if finally feeling the slightest drop of freedom. “Dada…?”

He nodded softly. “That’s right. I’m your father. And I’m saving you from this place, Seraphina.”

Maybe he overestimated her understanding because she just kept staring at him.

“You can put your sword away.” He made a small sheathing gesture with his hands. “We have to go. We have to leave right now and you will never see this horrible place again.”

She suddenly waddled up to him and he almost flinched as she tried to wrap her arms around his leg, her weapon forgotten on the floor.

The silver solider lifted the baby into his arms, and she clenched the straps across his chest so tight her knuckles were white. He sheathed her sword and protected her with his right arm. He had already wasted so much time, but he already knew he would never regret this first moment. 

He could never return Shinra, to the memories it held or the friends he made. But they didn’t matter now. All that mattered was her safety. 

All that mattered was his family.

.

.

.

.

To be continued…

Chapter list here!

Note: Okay I know the starry night/multicolored hair is very ‘original character do no steal-y’ but I promise it will be part of the plot and not just a neat detail. This is also my first time writing out an OC for someone ELSE (Hi Pumpkin!) so I’m trying to stay true to the multiple asks this AU spans. So welcome to my newest ‘Sephiroth with a child’ AU and say thank you to Pumpkin for letting me write this!

[aloeaceae]

On Cloud Tower

Having thoroughly explored Alfea, we must now turn our attention to its dark counterpart—Cloud Tower. As viewers of Winx Club, we don’t know much about this mysterious school for witches. Much like its inhabitants, Cloud Tower is shrouded in secrecy, offering only small crumbs of lore and leaving the rest to our imagination. This post, though inspired by what can be observed in the show, includes many headcanons—please keep that in mind!

Like Alfea, Cloud Tower is a prestigious institution providing secondary education to young women aged 16–19. However, unlike Alfea, it does not favor royal applicants. While anyone may apply, it is the school itself—a sentient being, wise and ancient—that ultimately chooses who may attend.

On Curriculum:

Young witches have much to learn, and the knowledge they require is far more technical than intuitive—unlike the magic of fairies. Students spend three years at Cloud Tower, studying how to master their volatile, emotion-based magic.

Witches are inherently wicked beings; their magic grows stronger the more intense the emotions they draw upon—anger being the most powerful and therefore the most favored. To foster this, students are assigned monitored tasks and exams that often involve wreaking havoc across the Magical Dimension. The limits of these activities are discussed with each student individually. Although the world agrees that witch students are a menace, if they’re caught by civilians, the consequences are severe.

On Cloud Tower the being:

“Cloud Tower embodies evil. It uses its vast reserves of energy to overcome it and use it for itself, exploiting its devastating strength.”

As mentioned earlier, Cloud Tower is more than a building—it is a living structure. At its core lies a massive, beating heart, which stores a reservoir of dark energy distributed throughout the castle.

The school is surrounded by a powerful, destructive barrier of dark magic fed by this heart. This barrier makes it nearly impossible for those who do not wield such magic to remain inside, and those without magical powers altogether cannot enter at all.

Cloud Tower favors strength and ambition, rewarding powerful students by granting them extra mana. Those the school deems weak often leave—voluntarily or otherwise—long before graduation.

On the Tri-School region:

Cloud Tower shares its territory with both Alfea and Red Fountain in an area known as the Tri-School region. Alfea and Red Fountain have implemented a joint team program, grouping students from both schools into teams that stay together until graduation to foster collaboration and teamwork. Cloud Tower is not currently part of this program, but with relations among the three schools rapidly improving, its inclusion is a strong possibility in the near future. For now, however, social events—like parties and balls—are already shared among all three institutions.

More lore: On Alfea, On Witches