#online trading arena

[elbdot]

It's shutting down this year!? I haven't even moved all my pokes from bank thank you for the heads up <3

YES UNFORTUNATELY 😭😭😭 My friends are already offering to help me hack my 3DS should a new server be created by the community to keep online service going, but given that that's a procedure not everyone will dare to do or be able to do successfully, this will definitely be our last chance to hold an easy accessible open Tournament on the 3DS like this 😔

I'LL MISS THE TRADING OPTION And the Link Battles with their little 3D Arena and the many animations just have a charm to them that Showdown simply cannot replicate for me 😭😭😭

[discluded]

MileApo and the rise of Thai soft power

Mile and Apo talking about the Thai period film at the Vogue Thailand Gala on 2022/9/21

I've been meaning to sit down and write about this for a while now, ever since I saw the pattern of Mile and Apo injecting it into their talking points about the 2023 historical film, but it's taken some an effort to actually lay it out. Hopefully the time I sat with it will make the it a more insightful, rich reading experience.

Disclaimers:

(1) I have no formal experience in international relations aside from reading and watching the news, but my strong point is research. Folks with a more formal backgrounds in policsci or IR are welcome to add their input!

(2) Comments about policies or political actions of nations, whether positive, neutral or negative, are not meant to reflect on private individuals of the nationality, even those with a notable amount of social-cultural capital. Private individuals, despite their positions of social influence, most often have little to no individual influence on a policy level**.

So without further ado:

What is soft power? (aka soft power for dummies)

Joseph Nye, a then-Harvard professor, coined the term soft power in the 1980s/early 90s. He described it as:

“A country’s ability to influence the preferences and behaviors of various actors in the international arena (states, corporations, communities, publics etc.) through attraction or persuasion rather than coercion.”

In his book Bound to Lead, Nye established that three prongs of a country's soft power were its culture, its political values, and its policies. Here are two different graphics that further break down what those look like when evaluating soft power in practice.

If you feel like all the above is still vague to the point of unparsable in an applied context, I spent the majority of the time researching how to demystify the term especially in the way MileApo discuss it, and found this great explainer:

A strong nation brand and positive soft power perceptions allow a nation to promote itself as a place for people to visit, invest in, and build a reputation for their quality of goods and services. [...] it is often overlooked that a strong nation brand and soft power can deliver better outcomes at home. Primarily it encourages domestic tourism, the consumption of domestic goods and services (rather than imports). Less tangibly it also just makes people feel better about their country.

Expressed in this context, soft power can be understood as the act of building trust in the cultural products of a nation domestically -- some more abstract in the form of art (music, film) and culture, some more concrete like products including fashion and beauty -- in a manner to appeal to its own citizens while also broadening the appeal of cultural goods abroad in a which can drive international tourism, trade, and commerce.

In other words: yes, our collective desire to actually taste Farmhouse bread.

The Thai government and the push for soft power

While my interest in this topic was originally piqued by MileApo's comments, soft power policy has to originate at the government level. Note again that Nye's definition of soft power is centered around "a country’s ability to influence", therefore soft power policy must always formally be expressed nationally.

Around the time MileApo consistently began promoting soft power in alignment with the period film, I noticed a slew of references in Bangkok Post, one of the reputable English online publications based in Thailand.

Back tracking through some of the articles as a reflection of national conversation, since 2020, there has been a consistent theme in terms of what the government is attempting and how well it's going (or not going):

On Thailand's soft power and positioning in the world, Feb 2020:

According to Kitti Prasirtsuk of Thammasat University, who has carried out extensive research into Thailand's branding and repositioning in the age of interconnectedness and social media, Thailand and its culture, values and foreign policy have charisma and high persuasive power which can attract admiration and cooperation. But the Thai people and bureaucrats must change their mindset and perceptions and appreciate their country in real terms first before they take up new challenges.

Within Asean, Thailand is behind Singapore as No.1 [among SE Asian soft power rankings]. The report stated that Thailand has the potential to rise into the top 30 in the world, if the country can strike the right political balance between the rural poor and urban elite. It went on to say that Thailand's weaknesses are problems related to corruption and inequality. It also said that the Thai government is failing to showcase the full potential of Thailand's rich cultural offerings beyond tourism. One more weak link is its poor performance in public diplomacy and digital infrastructure.

(Mile, Apo, and Bible all attended Thammasat University, which is considered one of the premiere universities in Thailand. Apo later transferred and graduated from a different university.)

On Milli, a Thai rapper who performed at Coachella in Spring 2022:

The presence of the 19-year-old rapper Milli at the Coachella Music Festival in the United States has reinvigorated Thailand's soft power ambitions -- an area the Thai government has not fully explored nor exploited. Milli, whose real name is Danupha Khanatheerakul, is the first solo Thai artist to perform at Coachella, a music festival that draws tens of thousands of fans annually.

[Milli's prescence at Coachella] was able to advance Thailand's soft power [in ways previously stalled]. It is not that the government is clueless about "soft power". For decades, governments have focused on presenting Thailand's soft power to the world. However, that iteration of "soft power" mainly consisted of Thai customs and traditions such as food, costume, classical dance, Buddhism rituals and the wai. These aspects of our cultural heritage, despite being charming to foreign tourists, are not sufficient to catapult Thailand's into a stronger position in the global market. Thai cultural heritage has failed to catch up in the digital age…

Milli's song also includes ideas relevant to international audiences. One of her songs openly discusses sexual consent. Being relevant is one of the keys to increasing the nation's presence among diverse populations. The cultural impact made by a young girl like Milli should make the government rethink its cultural promotion strategy. More support is needed for progressive Thai artists and innovators.

An opinion rebuttable on Milli's performance and the government's blundering of reaching for soft power while not meeting basic domestic requirements:

One of the minister's advisers belted out a long speech that did not seem to address how Thailand will become a "soft power" but used the term multiple times. One can't help but wonder if the ministry knows what it is doing, or what the so-called "soft power" it is espousing is about.

Milli's self-taunting line "I don't ride an elephant" may sound a bit old but her rapping about how "the country is good, people are good, our food is good but the government is bood," seems to have struck a chord. "Bood" means rotten in Thai. It is thus understandable if the government was not too coherent when discussing anything about the phenomenon that Milli created. Indeed, [Thailand's Prime Minister] Gen Prayut should feel awkward discussing the "soft power" of Milli and mango sticky rice when he filed a defamation charge against the teen rapper himself back in June last year.

Talented as Milli is, and extraordinary her achievements both locally and at one of the world's most famous music festivals have been, the teenage rapper really has nothing to do with so-called "soft power" which government figures are talking about. Her success is largely individual. Milli created a sensation and a craze. For Thailand's "soft power" to be built, let alone recognised globally, it takes more than one successful artist…

The whole product must be good if it is to exert influence. As experts argued, it takes a wide range of qualities for a country to say it has "soft power". These include the quality of its political institutions, education, digital development, innovation, cultural appeal, strength in arts or business brands. That is why it is odd for everyone to talk about Thailand's "soft power" now when we don't seem to have ticked any of the basic requirements.

On Bangkok International Fashion Week (BIFW):

BIFW2022 has been [a] major and continuing mission to promote and drive Thai fashion to international levels. The event strategically aligns with the government’s strategy to empower Thai fashion industry as fashion is one of the most influential soft power that stimulate economic growth.

Note that multiple actors in BOC walked BIFW2022 in September, as well as multiple actors from other Thai BL shows that aired in 2022.

On the increasing popularity of Thai BL:

Thai BL is now popular across Southeast and East Asia[, and] has been gaining traction in Japan, the home of BL, since 2020. Posters of famous khu jin were put up in a train station. Magazines that cover Thai drama, including BL, are rolled out for the Japanese audience. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a Twitter account that uses BL to engage Japanese consumers. They are conducting research on these issues in the context of soft power.

Yes you read that correctly. No joke, BL as a facet of Thai soft power is so prevalent now that the government is literally tracking its popularity and Twitter conversation around the topic.

So what does this all mean?

Thailand is a country within Asia and internationally that has a lot of appeal as a tourism destination. However, with many competitor alternatives in both entertainment (particularly film and music) and beauty/fashion, which are major drivers soft power within Asia and internationally, and domestic dissidence of policy and politicians due to social conditions, Thai cultural power is not as prominent as it could be and also suffers at the international level.

While there is appeal of specific Thai cultural products internationally (such as Milli at Coachella or in the case of Kinnporsche the Series) the government has failed to activate these prominent media products as part of a cohesive soft power strategy.

However, the government does seem aware of the potential, specifically in the realm of BL. Thailand has always maintained an image of being LGBTQ-friendly among all the Asian countries, and may now be looking to push LGBTQ-aligned media (BL and GL dramas) specifically as part of its soft power strategy to increase pop culture and media appeal.

MileApo on Soft Power

Part of the reason my ears perked up at MileApo's consistent talking point of soft power is again, because even without a polisci background, I'm aware that soft power is expressed at the country policy level. Thus when both of them started specifically using the term to discuss the film in pre-production phase, it got my brain gears turning.

Mile talking about the film on 2022/9/24 at the D7 Grand Opening (vid/txt)

"Nong Po will act with Hia Mile -- please look forward to this movie next year, please look forward to that a lot. We want to expand Thai culture and soft power..." Apo on the Thai period movie at the KPWT Send off on 2022/9/11

Mile Phakphum's speech on Mother's Day in Kalasin, 2022/8/5

Here's what we do know. Apo's dance training for the film is with a teacher affiliated with the academy that also produces dancers who specifically entertain the royal court.

And here is what they individually said in the Vogue Thailand print interview (completed in late August 2022, published October 2022)

And I would be remiss and dishonest to not point out that Mile's family is prominent in Thailand and his mother is part of the Queen's inner circle. Keep in mind that Thailand is a constitutional monarchy where the monarch has limited powers in practice (think: Japan or UK), and Thailand has a history of cyclical political instability that does not displace the monarchy. So believe him when he says he has limited power compared to Kinn. He travels on a private citizen's passport like all the rest of the cast. (Though my eyes start watering when I'm thinking about baby chaebol CEO Mile and destiny.*)

That being said, what these connections likely did get the production team was access to cultural resources such as the dance expert and most likely credentialed historians to consult on the period film. I would surprised if there aren't ministers' offices who are in the loop about film's production in a way they would not pay to other film or show production teams. I'm sure we will find out more about the interesting and important people involved in the production process around the time the film is released.

Another aspect that stood out to me is the fact that Mile and Apo, neither of whom have policy backgrounds, started iterating the discussion point of soft power in a way you don't see Milli, or Mew Suppassit (who let's not forget was also a RSIFF invitee and the first Thai artist to break into the Billboard World Song Chart), talk about it. Mew actually has talked about soft power a couple of times, but only in the context that he is part of a cultural wave that can increase Thailand's influence globally and never specifically in relation to a project he is promoting. That speaks a lot to the team behind the scenes involved in the writing and consulting (and marketing) process of the 2023 historical film.

The timeline of when these comments popped up is also interesting. While they do coincide with the release of the trailer post KPWT Bangkok, most likely what's happening during this time period is that BOC and more specifically Mile is shopping for sponsors to the project.

Think about Mile speaking about Thailand soft power to an audience of mostly older businesspeople at the mother's day event -- what would the purpose be except an ask for partnership on a project that he is on, which can become a vehicle for Thai products both domestically and globally? Look at the timing of the announcement of the Srichand partnership (end of August), and how successfully that broken the brand into the lucrative Chinese market, moving millions of THB worth of product for a brand that had struggled to get any traction previously. While Srichand's focus is currently on China, working with a Thai beauty brand for a film where the trailer highlighted many historical makeup elements is an actually ideal brand partnership and project alignment.

(Sadly for us, I don't think the film will be the second longest bread commercial in existence. But based on the Farmhouse CEO's comments, I would be unsurprised if they signed on to support the film project too. Ancient Thai bread I guess *jazz hands*)

In Conclusion

MileApo's soft power talking point was an intentional move specifically to shop the film project around for sponsors. The Srichand partnership proved MA-as-a-brand's ability to move product in a lucrative, hard-to-crack foreign market, though Srichand (and Giffarine) as brands aren't necessarily able to stand in the market independently as of yet. Their past brand partnerships' success simultaneously showed how lucrative it is to book MA for a product domestically. I'm sure we'll see a slew of new interesting sponsors and brand partnerships this year. This is only the beginning of MA's power as a cultural brand domestically and internationally.

Mile and Apo have also expressed their pride in the past in being cultural ambassadors of Thailand, both at the RSIFF and when speaking about engaging tourists who are visiting Thailand. Their praise of Thai products (for example, the artistry of Thai silk in the Vogue Th Gala interview) and their active choice to work with mostly Thai brands speaks to their values as businessmen who genuinely want to uplift Thailand's influence in the global market.

That being said, the Thai cultural ministry cannot rely on a single cultural emissary to advance its soft power agenda globally, and as of right now, despite ...some attempts, a cohesive government strategy around soft power does not exist.

MileApo have demostrated their brand has strong impact, and that they can influence purchase behavior internationally (e.g., KPWT ticket sales, Srichand) in ways many Thai media figures have not been able to as of yet. But they are not formally tied to the Thai government, nor should the government intervene and attempt to direct artistic expression.

Culture is one aspect of soft power, and political/humanitarian expression is another major component that advances an international soft power agenda. There are already articles discussing Thailand's problems of political corruption and self/journalistic censorship due to political conditions that prevent full freedom of expression. But that's the government's problem to address that. There is a lot of unharvested potential in multiple realms.

This essay is not about that though. I'm just a fan.

Can it be December 2023 yet 🥺

Additional notes that don't fit into the essay under the cut:

(1) There was a lot of fandom hand-wringing in August and September about Apo publicly having working dinners with Pond over the film project. Let's not forget Mile is someone who cares deeply about the art he makes, and he and Apo both have said multiple times they talk almost nightly about their artistic intent. If Mile talks to Apo and Apo was talking to Pond, why would Mile, a person who cares deeply about art, not be talking to Pond in pre-production? Obviously the answer is a division of labor in the relationship: Mile was working on funding which is just as important, and Mile also needs to sleep and rest and not work. There wouldn't be anyone else he would trust to convey his artistic intent to the director except for Apo. True power couple behavior right there.

(2) * everyday I go feral over baby chaebol CEO Mile. If someone made a kdrama about a handsome chaebol baby who was a CEO but also an actor and model who met his soulmate in university but it was a missed connection and then the soulmate went on to become a famous actor/model who quit because of bullying, but then they met again when the baby chaebol WHO IS STILL A CEO BUT ALSO AN ACTOR met at an audition for a drama... *foams at mouth* I would call this show bizarre, nonsensical and incoherent, and yet HERE WE ARE IN REAL LIFE. The jetsetting supermodel with wealthy CEO part of reality which is now bending around MileApo so they can live their wattpad fanfic life. What the hell am I looking at, I ask myself every day.

(3) ** this statement does not include billionaires like Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos whose net worth exceeds those of small and mid-sized countries. Per today's estimate, ~50 people/families have more wealth than 90 of 190 countries. If your net worth can run the economy of half the countries in the world, then your wealth/resources hoarding behavior can control what the media says and influence otherwise free and fair elections.

Once again, Some of you need some contextualization of how comfortably wealthy vs. billionaire resource-hoarding rich looks like.

[withloveaugustine]

From Rolling Stone's interview:

"I think the difference between this album and GUTS is that in DAZE, I'm finally in a place where I can process happy emotions and experiences more often than I am experiences that are challenging or...intense. I've definitely had to grapple with fame in the sense that I chose to do this, you know? I could have fallen off after Disney, and just chosen to go do a normal job. Look at Jennifer Stone - she was on what people would've considered one of the It shows of the 2000's, she was with Selena Gomez, and now she's killing it - I mean, sorry, bad choice of words - she's an amazing RN.

And for me, it's like . . . on some level you have to be a little narcissistic to want to be a successful musician. You know? It's one thing to process emotions, relationships, new life experiences, whatever, through a song. Then you just put the journal away. But if you want to be a successful musician, you're pretty much telling people that you think you're amazing and you have this amazing products - your songs - that they should also be invested in, and they should want to support you and here's why. And your music has to stand on its own, because there's not a guarantee they'll follow you on social media to learn more about your music, or see who you are as a person; they're just judging you based solely on your work and that's the introduction they get to who you are.

So for the past two years, it's genuinely fucking crazy that so many people . . . I mean, I was genuinely shocked that so many arenas were sold out, you know? I think it's one thing to see the numbers online, but that's all they are: numbers. Statistics. It's not really tangible. So when I looked out to see arenas full of people of all ages who love my music as much as I do . . . I mean, it makes you so grateful that you get to do what you love every day, and be financially secure at the end of the day. That feeling of financial security - I wouldn't trade it for anything.

But I think when you have such a massive, and massively successful debut album that resonates with people, and you're seventeen, eighteen - I think people forget what it's like to be that young, and a lot of people can't relate to blowing up that way on such a massive scale so young. It can feel really isolating, and it's invasive to have so many people just wanting to . . . it feels like they want to own you, or just crawl inside your body and live there.

It's really hard to figure out how to navigate. Because my success led to me meeting my current partner, who is just so incredible and amazing, and he's just - he's everything I ever dreamed of. My success lets me have financial security, and pay the people who work under me well, and treat my family and friends, and lets me do things I'd never do if I wasn't Olivia Rodrigo The Brand. But like, I'm also Olivia Rodrigo: The Brand, in addition to being my own person, and so that's what makes me feel dazed. I am so in love with the life I'm living, but how long can I maintain it? What if I put out a record that's torn to shreds, or what if I slowly lose relevancy because I accidentally put out a song or an album that's considered junk food music? What if I fuck up the whole trajectory of my life and I can see it so clearly in hindsight? But like, also: what if I don't?"

taglist: @perrieedwards

[offsidenewsco]

"It’s a celebration. It’s a celebration to a group that may never be the same again. It’s a celebration for every fan having “Raise Up” and “Rock You Like a Hurricane” in their Spotify Wrapped yet again. It’s a celebration for tailgating, for smoked meat in the parking lot of PNC Arena, for honouring the trademark of “The Loudest House in the NHL”. It’s a celebration to Don Waddell acting at the trade deadline. It’s a celebration to Canes fans acting up (appropriately) online.

Caniac Nation can worry about the abysmally bad playoff powerplay, goaltending, the amount of players who likely have played their last game as Hurricanes tomorrow. 

Just for today, there is celebration."

Read our #CauseChaos eulogy here.

[momo-no-tane]

Princess Cafe has revealed more information about the first wave of goods that will be sold at the five upcoming Shugo Chara! Pop Up Shops. The second wave of goods is scheduled to be released mid-September 2024. For every 2,000 yen spent, customers will receive a random trading card. There are 8 types available. The goods will also be available for sale online in the future.

Locations:

[Tokyo] Shibuya N-space from August 26th, 2024 to October 2nd, 2024.

[Osaka] Abeno Harukas from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

[Kanagawa] K-Arena Shop from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

[Tochigi] FKD Utsunomiya Interpark Mall from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

[Okinawa] Naha Airport International Air Route Entrance from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

Goods (Tax Included):

Acrylic Stands Vol. 8 (8 Types) (Random) - 1,100 yen

Trading Pin Buttons Vol. 3 (8 Types) (Random) - 550 yen

Trading Pin Buttons Vol. 4 (8 Types) (Random) - 550 yen

Tsukiyomi Ikuto Collection Coaster Sets (Set of 2) (4 Types) - 990 yen

Hinamori Amu Collection Coaster Sets (Set of 2) (4 Types) - 990 yen

Clear File Set (Set of 2) (A4 Size) (1 Type) - 880 yen

Collection Coasters (8 Types) (Random) - 330 yen

Source: X

[acceptccnow]

High-Risk Payment Processing: Strategies for a Thriving Credit Repair Business

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | Accept-Credit-Cards-Now.com

In the ever-shifting landscape of financial services, the voyage of credit repair businesses encounters unique challenges, particularly in the realm of payment processing. As e-commerce ascends and the demand for credit repair services burgeons, the quest for effective high-risk payment processing solutions takes center stage. Whether at the helm of credit repair or navigating the intricate waters of CBD products, the acceptance of credit card payments emerges as a compass pointing to success. This article plunges into the intricacies of high-risk payment processing, unraveling strategies that not only foster flourishing enterprises but also position them as pioneers in their industry.

DOWNLOAD THE HIGH-RISK PAYMENT PROCESSING INFOGRAPHIC HERE

The Magnetic Pull of Credit Card Acceptance

Beyond mere convenience, the magnetic pull of credit card acceptance resonates profoundly in today's business milieu. It is not merely about transactional ease; it's about broadening horizons and amplifying revenue streams. By embracing credit card payments, be it in the arena of credit repair or CBD enterprises, businesses swing open gates to a more extensive clientele. Customers, valuing the versatility and security offered by credit and debit cards, find it simpler to engage with services providing this option, translating into heightened conversion rates and the organic growth of businesses.

High-Risk Merchant Processing: A Strategic Alliance

In sectors like credit repair and CBD trade, where the "high-risk" tag is commonplace, perceiving it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle becomes paramount. It's not merely a label but a gateway to markets teeming with potential. To navigate this successfully, forging alliances with reliable high-risk merchant processing providers emerges as a strategic imperative. These specialized processors comprehend the unique challenges faced and deliver tailored solutions to suit the specific needs of credit repair businesses and CBD merchants.

E-commerce Payment Processing: Transformative Paradigms

The realm of e-commerce payment processing emerges as a transformative force for credit repair businesses. It not only facilitates secure online payments but also equips businesses with tools to efficiently manage transactions. The article underscores the significance of e-commerce payment processing, shedding light on its pivotal role and emphasizing the need for specialized payment gateways attuned to the intricacies of the credit repair industry.

The Strategic Leverage of Credit Repair Payment Gateways

A credit repair payment gateway stands as the linchpin for online business operations, ensuring seamless connections between customers and services while safeguarding their financial data. The article advocates for the careful selection of payment gateways aligned with business goals, ensuring a frictionless checkout process, reduced cart abandonment rates, and an augmented revenue stream. Features like one-click payments and compatibility with various credit and debit cards take center stage in enhancing the user experience.

The Tactical Significance of CBD Merchant Accounts

For CBD merchants, the possession of a dedicated CBD merchant account emerges as a strategic imperative. The association of the CBD industry with cannabis places it within the high-risk category. However, with the burgeoning acceptance of CBD products, the market presents rapid expansion. The article delves into the significance of a dedicated CBD merchant account, emphasizing its role in enabling businesses to offer customers the convenience of credit card payments and contributing to overall business growth.

The Ever-Present Ally: Online Payment Gateways

In a digital age where business operations transcend time zones, an online payment gateway becomes the perpetual ally, processing payments even when physical stores shutter for the day. The perpetual availability not only broadens revenue potential but also elevates customer satisfaction. The global reach facilitated by online payment gateways extends business access to customers worldwide, free from geographical constraints.

The Pulsating Core: Credit Card Processing Systems

In the intricate dance of credit repair or CBD ventures, the pulsating core lies in a reliable credit card processing system. This system serves as the nucleus, ensuring secure and swift transactional processes. The article advocates for investments in robust credit card processing systems, emphasizing the need for real-time transaction monitoring and fraud prevention features. The assurance of secure transactions emerges as priceless for both businesses and customers.

The Guardian Shield: High-Risk Merchant Accounts

In the arena of high-risk businesses, a high-risk merchant account stands as the guardian shield, offering protection against potential challenges. This shield provides access to payment processing solutions tailored to the industry's needs. With the right high-risk merchant account, businesses can navigate the labyrinth of high-risk payment processing with unwavering confidence.

Embracing High-Risk Payment Processing for Triumph

Embracing high-risk payment processing is not merely a choice but a necessity for credit repair businesses and CBD merchants. The article underscores the empowerment derived from accepting credit cards, enabling businesses to thrive and grow. The advocacy for partnerships with reliable merchant processing providers and the utilization of secure payment gateways crystallizes into a seamless and secure transaction experience for customers.

In a dynamic business landscape, adaptability emerges as the keystone. The high-risk label should not be viewed as a deterrent but as an opportunity to shine in the industry. The article encourages investments in robust credit card processing systems and dedicated high-risk merchant accounts to safeguard businesses and propel them toward success.

In the contemporary digital epoch, where convenience and security reign supreme, accepting credit cards for credit repair and CBD products paves the path to prosperity. The article urges businesses to embrace the power of high-risk payment processing, positioning themselves for success and a brighter future. It's an invitation to say yes to new heights.

[mariacallous]

American politics is a circus. In the arena of Washington, DC, lawmaking and lawbreaking is a fanatical kind of entertainment, a warped experiment that, in recent years, has taken on the veneer of blind zealotry. Republicans, in particular, have thrived on a diet of chaos since the rise of former president Donald Trump, turning the performance of democracy into primetime viewing. “The reality of it is, it’s all theater,” Representative George Santos of New York said on Thursday during a press conference on the steps of the US Capitol as he faced expulsion from Congress.

Soaking in the carnival of media attention that has stalked him since he arrived in DC in 2022, Santos—taking one last stand as a solo act this week—was predictably unmuzzled in the hours leading up to the vote that would decide his political future. “It’s theater for the cameras, it’s theater for the microphones,” he said, referring to the playhouse of American bureaucracy and, ironically, himself. “It’s theater for the American people at the expense of the American people.”

In a short time, Santos had fashioned himself into one of the most fascinating carnival barkers of recent memory. By Friday he was out of a job.

As cameras rolled and online chatter swirled across social media about his alleged scams, there was nowhere for Santos to hide. Not that he wanted to, of course. In a Spaces conversation hosted on X, Santos was hellbent on exposing his congressional associates—“Felons galore,” he colored them—for their alleged crimes. “I have colleagues who are more worried about getting drunk every night with the next lobbyist that they’re gonna screw, and pretend like none of us know what’s going on, and sell off the American people,” he said. The spotlight was his alone, as was the intense scrutiny that came with it.

In October, a report filed by the House Ethics Committee claimed that Santos had overstepped his authority as a member of Congress, accusing him on multiple counts of financial fraud and criminal activity. The ethics report determined that Santos—among other misdeeds that already included charges of wire fraud and conspiracy—used campaign funds on Botox, the adult subscription site OnlyFans, and luxury Ferragamo shoes (select pairs sell for more than $2,000). True to form, and a true master of spin, Santos said the report was “littered in hyperbole.”

Equal parts enigma and attraction, Santos courted controversy from the beginning of his tenure as a US representative. There was an uncanny cadence to his personal testimony: Nothing was exactly as he told it. Even now, in the dim light of his scandalous incumbency, the question of “Who is George Santos?” remains unclear. The air of mystery surrounding Santos, and the public’s deep fascination with him, is owed to his own innate flair for invention, which both feeds into the eccentricity of American politics and mirrors the conceited, but no less savory, surrealism of reality TV that we obsess over. Who doesn’t love a surprising plot twist and a riveting character arc?

Even by Washington standards, where truth and fiction live side by side, Santos’ particular taste for fabrication was extraordinary. He said he received his MBA from New York University. He had not. He said he previously worked at investment firms Goldman Sachs and Citigroup. He had not. He said his grandparents were Jewish and escaped the Holocaust. They had not. He alleged personal connections to the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, where he said his mother worked in finance, and denied past criminality in Brazil. Those were also lies.

Hubris. Ego. Narcissism. These now seem to represent the defining traits of American lawmakers who swagger and shout with little concern for the dangerous consequences their actions set in motion. Perhaps it’s fitting, then, that earlier this week, photographer Al Drago captured a 15-foot inflatable George Santos against a backdrop of blue sky outside the US Capitol building, as MoveOn, a progressive public policy and advocacy group, called attention to the 35-year-old New York congressperson’s indulgent falsehoods. “Full of Lies,” exclaimed the message on its red tie, the inflatable’s tiny gremlin feet dangling in the air. As metaphors go, this one was unmistakable in its framing: George Santos is all hot air.

Santos always seemed thirsty for the spotlight, and now he has it. He is the first US representative to be banished from the House, not convicted of treason or a federal crime. In a vote of 311–114, members of Congress found a resounding legitimacy in the ethics committee report.

Santos has vowed to wear his expulsion like “a badge of honor.” In doing so he joins a cohort of politicos—along with Trump, Rudy Guiliani, and other MAGA acolytes—who defy the gravity of democracy, smugly facing the cameras even as they face indictments. In their reality of government, theirs is the only truth worth subscribing to.

The loss of Santos’ congressional seat in New York could help give Democrats the momentum they need, as Joe Biden readies for a likely round-two matchup against Trump. A screening of potential candidates is already underway, and a special election will be held next year. For now, though, democracy breathes a little easier—purged, though not completely, of the lies politicians like Santos feed into the body of the imperfect republic.

Farewell, George Santos. It was fun until it wasn’t.

[fantasticbirdhologram]

Bye bye Stammer

Stamkos was the Tampa Bay Lightning GOAT from day one and from a purely emotional perspective, it's hard to take him being traded from a team he led to 2 Stanley Cups to Nashville.

On the other hand, he is aging and losing his mojo due to the natural order of things and the beating his body takes daily from training and play. On a positive note, the Bolts fandom has been the most reasonable fandom I've seen when it comes to understanding that and being realistic about his prospects while putting the team itself first (compared to, say, the Caps fandom that I'm surprised hasn't petitioned to have Ovechkin canonized in every major religion as he increasingly becomes a slow, heavy albatross on the team's neck but I digress).

Keeping Stammer around for nostalgic reasons is doing a disservice to younger players and guys like Vasy and Kuch as they chase another Cup and cement the team's place in hockey history. I wish the trade had been handled better on the back-end and God knows JBB is getting dragged through the pits of online opinion hell right now, but this is truly the most impersonal, business-oriented trade I've seen this year for good and for bad.

I genuinely wish Stamkos well in Nashville and look forward to watching him play and rooting for him. Loyalty doesn't pay the bills and he has to put himself and his family first so I respect and support his decision, even if I am a bit sad for the Bolts. Stammer is a class act, an excellent leader, an amazing communicator, and forever a Bolt no matter where he goes next. He was also the first signed puck I ever got courtesy of the Mystery Puck program at Amalie Arena so he has a special place in my fandom heart for that.

Good luck in Smashville, Stammer; you left your mark on the Bolts and are already sorely missed! Thank you for everything 💙⚡️

[fastesthe1]

What Fire Emblem Fates Loses Without Online Functionality

As many know by now, Nintendo announced that they will be shutting down the online functionality for the Wii U and 3DS in April 2024. Among these affect will be the Fire Emblem games for the 3DS, all of which I love dearly.

So out of curiosity about what we are going to be losing, I decided to turn off my 3DS's internet and see how Awakening, Fates, and Echoes: Shadows of Valentia reacted. As it turns out, the My Castle feature in Fates was heavily designed with online in mind. Without online, out of battle prep is going to be harder for the average player, and worryingly so.

The first thing is rather obvious: players will lose the ability to visit any other castles (outside of potentially via Streetpass, but I have no easy way to test that). This of course means no more buying player skills for your units (including the fun yet illegal ones like Aptitude) from quick castle battles. You will also lose the ability to recruit any other players' units or form Bond Units between those you visit and visit you frequently. While sad, I would say these features are mostly not needed for Fates' overall gameplay loop.

However, quick castle visits are also used to obtain other resources like ore and food, as players randomly start with different ones. Ore can be traded in at the Smithy for other ore types (at the steep price of 5 for 1). Since ore is needed to forge weapons, you will need to grind for the required amounts. As for food, you're going to have to hope that someone in your army finds some to give to you while wandering the castle. If you have at least one of any ore or food, you can use it at the Arena in an attempt to gain more of it.

Very unlikely players will have 99 of each item in post-online files without the long grind (or hacking).

Players will also lose access to the other paths' shops and vendors from other castles. Unless you're playing Revelation, you will be forced to primarily stick to weapons of the country you've sided with at Chapter 6. This includes weapons like the Dual Kanata that flips the weapon triangle or the Armorslayer that is effective against armored units. Players with the Museum Melee DLC will be able to farm for out-of-path weapons, but it will be a luck-based grind.

Quick castle visits are a great source of Dragon Vein Points, or DVP, as well. DVP is used to build and upgrade facilities around My Castle. Outside of castle visits, you can still obtain DVP through chapter battles, skirmishes, invasions, DLC battles... This is actually a major blow to Conquest in particular because, unless the player has previously downloaded DLC before the shop went offline, they might have no infinite source of DVP! This also makes thing like support grinding difficult, especially if you want second generation units. Birthright and Revelation will still have the infinite skirmishes at the very least, but it will certainly take longer.

Unfortunately for Fates, losing access to online features might end up harming the game's Streetpass functions as well. I hope I am wrong about this, but it appears that you can only update your castle if you are connected to the internet. In other words, once the 3DS online is taken down, you might not be able to update your Streetpass castle, and any future new players might not be able to send out a Streetpass castle at all!

Losing online also comes at the cost of losing your Visitor Points (VP) and Battle Points (BP). Along with showing off how popular your castle is, VP and BP are used to unlock rewards. Many of these rewards are harder to obtained weapons and permanent stat boosters. Without being able to update your points, any future files you start will not be able to access and use these rewards.

Visiting other castles has always be fun!

In short, while none of the online features are absolutely necessary to complete any path in Fates, it does hamper one's abilities to obtain many valuable resources. Forging will be much harder, building up My Castle will take much longer, and it will be trickier to build supports. Conquest players in particular will have to care much more about resource management in general (unless they have DLC).

But what about Awakening and Echoes: Shadows of Valentia? Do they lose anything?

I checked these two as well, and fortunately for them, losing online is basically a non-issue! (Unless you want the DLC, in which case you are already out of luck.)

Unlike Fates, both Awakening and SoV can continue to update their Streetpass (even though it's just a player card for the latter). In fact, as far as I can tell, all SoV really loses is the ability to see how the player ranks in the Global Rankings, which is inconsequential for the gameplay.

Priam, a character exclusive to Awakening's Spotpass chapters.

I've seen some people bring up the possibility of losing Spotpass in Awakening, which contains bonus content like extra paralogue chapters, bonus units, and unique, harder to obtain weapons. As it turns out, as long as you have previously downloaded Spotpass at least once before, all content related to it will continue to be available for all current and future playthroughs! So only future new players will be losing out on it once the online functionality is gone.

Will Fates still be playable overall?

Oh, absolutely! Just because players will lose many of the wonderful features My Castle has to offer doesn't mean it's all gone. You should still get enough weapons and resources to reach the end of the game regardless of the path chosen. I suspect several players have already done so, either for not caring about My Castle or just not having their 3DS connected to the internet in the first place.

My hope is that Intelligent Systems will put out an update to alleviate the loss of online functionality. Perhaps it could be a resource pack, containing 10 of each ore and food and some weapons. Sadly, I believe this to be very unlikely, especially this late in the 3DS's life...

While more a replacement, a port or remake of Fates would be nice as well! It could contain the three paths (à la Three Houses) along with all of the DLC (including the two festival maps that never left Japan). I for one would absolutely be down for it, as Fates is unironically one of my favorite games.

Azura from Fates, and one of my all-time favorite characters!

In the end, this is all merely speculation on my part. We won't know for certain how much will truly be lost until the day Nintendo shuts down the 3DS and Wii U online services for good.

TLDR; Fates will likely lose easy access to obtaining resources and weapons once the Nintendo shuts down the online service for 3DS and Wii U, primarily related to My Castle. Overall this will make items much harder to obtain or, in a few cases, outright unobtainable. The game will still be completely playable however, just a bit harder.

[huggingtentacles]

What even is the pvp/invasion rune level meta nowadays? I see people in level 200, 150 and 125. Idk when to stop a full build anymore.

Wonderful news, all of these are viable choices, they just have significant differences in online experience. They have similar activity levels and purpose depending on what you want from the game.

125 aka the "tryhard" meta. This is where you invade people in the endgame areas (Snowfield, Farum Azula, Haligtree, Elphael, etc) and it is where all the good players hang out at. This is also the best level for arena duels. It's my favourite level to invade and duel on melee builds where you need to make meaningful sacrifices and trade-offs to define your build.

150 is the "Casual" meta. This is where you'll invade NG+ gamers and more relaxed arena goers. This level is associated with the clueless stereotype since this is where most people end up when they finish their first playthrough. You'll see casters and mages that have much more FP and everyone does more damage to eachother. Generally good for more relaxed, faster pace gameplay.

200 is tricky, this is where you meet the most clueless people, but the amount of stats you get opens up the opportunity to make fun hybrid builds. Everything does absurd damage, there is a lot of spam and chaos, it's super fun if you're into this kind of high risk high reward kind of gameplay.

If you're new to PvP, stick to 125-139 at first. This is the range where you can truly call yourself a build that makes meaningful choices regarding your stats. You'll learn a lot from fighting good players. And if you get bored and yearn for chaos, then go higher.

[sigyn-foxyposts]

✧༺Get to know me༻✧

«Welcome dear traveller, let me give you a warm welcome to my page and introduce myself to you and what this pinned post is all about!»

＊*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚ This is a safe space for ˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚＊

«Basically everyone! No matter what race, religion and or community you're from. We can all express ourselves and get along without judgement.»

«The least we can be is opened minded and not hate on each other. That is simply disrespectful! I'd also like to add this account is 15+ and I'll not interact with minors lower than that.»

«I might also post things about myself (pesonal) and do self-shipping, just scroll away if you don't like it. Thank you for your understanding!»

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* «Now on to who I might be..?»

*✧･ﾟ:* Some nicknames I use, especially online:

🦊 Foxy_Logryn9.

🦊 Artistfoxy16.

🦊 Sigyn, Thea or Thurl.

🦊 Sigynfoxy.

*✧･ﾟ:* Interesting facts:

«I am an INFP 2w1»

« I am an 19 year old digital artist, self taught and a writer. I mostly publish my creations here on Tumblr, Tiktok and on AO3, links are down below if you're ever curious.»

«I can speak 🇳🇴🇸🇪🇬🇧 and understand 🇩🇪🇮🇸🇩🇰»

«Norwegian and half Swedish! 🇳🇴🇸🇪»

"I'm also norse heathen! Specifically one that follows Rökkatru!»

«My birthday is on the 8th of september, which makes me a Virgo!»

«I have AUDHD, Anxiety, PTSD and happen to be born premature as well.»

«My anniversary is on the 13th of march!»

«I go by she/her and they/them pronouns»

✿❀ My beloved mutuals: <33

@sparrowmp4 (Hubbie Totally not Loki in disguise💜)

@heldril (online daughter Hel 📝 🖤🤍)

Price/Stella (Online Child💛)

@kaonashihime (Online lil sister Caro 🎨🌹❤)

@piratespacex (Mutual pirate 🎨🏴‍☠️❤)

@comfort-characters-galore (Perse mutual!❤)

@stravberryie (mutual!🎨🩷🍓)

@amphibifish (heimdall mutual! 🎨💜🦅)

@ryebread-x (Mutual Rye! 🎨🧡🍞)

@jonquilclegane (mutual Sunny 📝💛)

@roruna (Mutual Roruna 📝🤍)

@2dlovley (Mutual 2D 🎨🖤)

@mistress-of-words (mutual mistress 📝💜)

@vamnp (mutual Andy 🎨🧸🤎)

@hankiki (mutual Hana 💚💜)

@sorastar0 (mutual Sora 💙)

✿❀At last, what will I be doing here?

«I would like to use this account to share as much as I can with the people who are actually interested! I like to provide content for my interests and HUGE hyperfixiations, which does vary and some examples can be..»

Norse mythology (Loki's family mostly)

Any other culture, mythology or folklore in general!

SMITE

Dislyte

Afk arena/Journey

Lego monkie kid

Record of Ragnarok

The Mythical Detective Loki Ragnarok

Destripando la historia

Five Nights At Freddy's

Dont Hug Me Im Scared

Welcome Home

Genshin Impact

MLP

Kamigami no Asobi

Stardew Valley

Heaven's official blessing & svsss

«Don't be shy to send me a request or message if you want me to draw, make an edit, write about something related to these interests of mine!»

«After all, that's what I'll be mostly posting on here. Plus the stories/personal headcannons I have. Also whatever research that I can find and or share! :D»

«Any questions related to commissions, just go here!»

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ Character archive! ☽༓･*˚⁺‧

My mythology designs:

Consists mostly of the Norse gods but I also have Celtic, Hatian and Greek ect in there!!

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ Other social media☽༓･*˚⁺‧

Writer Account: @sigyns-drafts (hiatus)

RP Account: @sigynfoxysworld (hiatus)

『••✎••』 Toy house: Artist_foxy

『••✎••』 UnVale: Sigynfoxy

«I use these lovely websites to keep track of my art and original characters. Though it would be fun to share :)»

『••✎••』 Tiktok: Logryn_foxyedits

https://www.tiktok.com/@logryn_foxyedits?_t=8b2H82LF3G1&_r=1

«I am active on here! Posting edits and some art related stuff about mythology and it's pop-cultures that I like!»

『••✎••』 PDB: Sigynfoxying_around

https://www.personality-database.com/user/2249660

«I have an account there because it's fun to collect and see what I have in common with my favorite characters and kins! Also to add in fandoms no one has yet!»

『••✎••』 Spotify: Thea or Thurl?

https://open.spotify.com/user/yvlfbdp7n70aa6653f3y6lz9i?si=rI6qugqMQgCmHLc1TOZPug

«This is where I keep all my playlists, I've made a few character playlists already!»

『••✎••』 YouTube: sigynfoxy69

https://youtube.com/@sigynfoxy69?si=TElPF8bPd_q--8QO

«I barely post on here, but when I do it's just a speedpaint or silly videos that I made, that I personally thought was suitable for YouTube!»

『••✎••』 Instagram: artistfoxy_16

«Instagram is more of an archive if anything, I used to post on there a long time ago and try to today! :)»

『••✎••』 Instagram: Artistfoxy16

«Same as Instagram! I'm planning on using it to archive my work and just in general it's fun to share stuff!»

『••✎••』 Discord: sigynfoxy

«Send me a request if you ever wanna talk on there! Though be warned if I don't recognize you as a mutual or customer I'll most likely ignore you ^^'»

『••✎••』 AO3: Artistfoxy16

https://archiveofourown.org/users/Artistfoxy16

«Finally at last my AO3 Account, so you can easily find me and enjoy my writings!!»

[elbdot]

By the way, you should check out prendo network! (I think that's what it's called? Pretendo network?) I'm not a 3ds user, but it came up on my feed, and it sounds like a fanmade network you can use!

YEAH We're hoping Pretendo will work on a server to revive the GTS/Online Network for Gen 6 and Gen 7 :'D That way we could have some fun battles again and trade, at least those of us who hacked their 3DS! Of course Pokemon Showdown is always an option for online battles, but it's just not the same as watching the ingame animations of Sun and Moon and the atmosphere of the arena with music you're free to choose 🥹

[claireelle18]

Everything has Changed - Brandon Hagel

That simple name from months ago, a split second introduction to his name during a look at the other hockey games during the Lightning versus Capitals. The announcers brought his name to her attention. He had scored with seconds left in the first period for the Chicago Blackhawks versus the Ottawa Senators, putting the Blackhawks on the board.

Later that season, his name came across the hockey Twitter side with the remarks of him scoring his hat trick against the New Jersey Devils. The entire reason? Bagels thrown all over the rink in honor of his nickname Bagel.

A handful of weeks later, in the midst of the trading deadline - his name presented by the Lightning's social media. Everything she knew has changed. JBB pulled a quick one, shipping off some big pieces to acquire him. A small reserve about the newbie chatted about online, but her gut feeling was that he was going to be good and something important, to get to know him better. Little did she realize how quickly the young player would be making his introduction into her world.

______________________________________________________________

She was grateful for the day off and decided to treat herself to a massive coffee and a breakfast pastry at her favorite local coffee shop. Down on the bay's edge, nestled in a co-op, she could people watch while enjoying the sunshine. There was a small line for the shop, but she didn't mind. "Is this coffee any good? I am in dire need of a good cup and figured local might be best," a deeper voice asked.

She briefly glanced at who was behind her, taking note to the younger face as she originally assumed it was an older man behind her. "As someone who requires a massive cup occasionally, I promise this is some of the best around. I recommend any of the breakfast options, never can go wrong with their bacon, egg and cheese croissant," she answered.

"Thank you for the recommendation," he said. She stepped up to order and as she went to pay, he interjected, "I'm buying your breakfast and coffee. It's the least I can do for the pretty lady with recommendation."

"Well what if you hate it?"

"Then miss, I guess you'll just have to show me another local place," he laughs with a wink.

______________________________________________________________

The pregame hustle and bustle of downtown Tampa provided an adrenaline rush that she survived off. It allowed her to turn the constant run of her brain off and focus on the buzz created by the game. Rumors surfaced around town that he would not be in the game, but would come down to the arena that night to spectate.

In a rush and not watching where she was going, a taller figure stopped in her pathway, reaching out for the curtain that separated the hall from the seats. "Hi! Can I help you?" a male voice questioned. Snapping out of her own world, she took in the sight in front of her. Two men in suits, one older, and one younger with a face she couldn't place right away were peering back at her. Everything was changing in that instant. She recognized him from earlier in the day. He stepped up to buy her massive iced coffee earlier that morning.

"Well hello again miss," the younger man started. "Nice to see you again. Didn't realize I'd be running into you this soon."

"Are you in the right section dear?" the older man questioned further. That's when realization dawned on her. She was a few sections off, her friends probably wondering where she was. Further realization hit her when she remembered that she carried a couple of drinks in her hand. The contents contained within adult Capri Sun pouches.

"I should be going," she sheepishly whispered. She started to take a step back when the young man spoke again.

"Wait, can I at least know your name and maybe have your number?"

"There you are! I was wondering where you wandered off too!" her friend called. "Oh! Hi there! Am I interrupting something?"

She shook her head no, but he spoke up, "I'm Brandon Hagel. See you around I guess." He looked like he was going to offer to shake his hand with hers, but he stuck them in his pants pocket instead.

"Yeah Brandon, I know I will see you around," she smiled.

"Not gonna tell me your name now?"

"I like to keep you guessing," she laughed.

______________________________________________________________

An overcast day was the perfect day for grocery shopping. Not many were wanting to chance getting caught outside while the skies opened up upon them. Her cart slowly becoming fuller as she continued to wander up and down the aisles of the Publix blocks from her apartment.

For this location, the shelves were a few shelves taller, leaving her to stand on her tip toes to retrieve the cereal box off the top shelf. "Need help with that?" a familiar voice asked. She whirled around to see the same guy from the other day looking back at her. It was just out of her reach, but he grabbed it with no problem.

"Thank you," she smiled. "It seems you're everywhere now. You sure you're not following me?" she laughed.

"Nope, I promise. I'm just trying to learn the way of the land down here, and some of the other guys told me to check this place out. Apparently some very good subs are made here," he chuckled.

The two separated to respectively finish their own shopping, but bumped into each other again at the check outs. He offered to help her out to her car. Reaching the automatic doors to outside, the sky opened up, torrential downpour. "Care to run or to join me for a sit? The one part of Florida is these thunderstorms will last for a little while then clear up," she explained.

"You know, it's nice to have someone who is willing to help out a newbie. I've been here for a matter of days, and everything has changed," he said. She was studying him, inspecting him a little further than the previous times. His eyes warm, feeling comfortable around him, even if it was for those quick few times they had interacted. She felt like he would be someone good to be around for a while. He was feeling the same way about her. Like he would be seeing her more often. "It would be nice to know you better."

"I think I like the sound of that idea," she replied. "Seems like everything is changing. I think we will be seeing a lot of each other's face a lot more." The weather changed from the downpour to a light drizzle. "Now come on newbie, better make our move before it pick back up."

Seemed like the two were going to become very familiar with each other continuing on. Everything did change for them.

[financialmarketonline]

Riding the Waves: Financial Market Online Surges with Best Forex Traders

In the digital age, the financial markets have undergone a transformative surge, and the online arena is now dominated by the prowess of the Best Forex Traders. These individuals navigate the intricate waves of currency fluctuations with skill and finesse, setting themselves apart in a sea of global financial activity.

The best Forex traders online are marked by their ability to ride the waves of market dynamics. Armed with a deep understanding of economic indicators, geopolitical events, and technical analysis, they make strategic decisions that capitalize on market trends. These traders embrace volatility, viewing it not as a hindrance but as an opportunity to leverage price movements for profit.

Technology stands as a cornerstone for the success of these traders. Advanced trading platforms equipped with real-time data, algorithmic tools, and artificial intelligence have become indispensable in the online Forex world. The best traders leverage these tools to execute trades swiftly, automate certain aspects of their strategy, and stay ahead of market developments. Technology not only empowers them but also allows for a more informed and responsive approach to the fast-paced nature of currency trading.

Risk management is a defining trait of the best Forex traders. They recognize the inherent uncertainties in the financial markets and implement stringent risk management practices to protect their capital. This includes setting stop-loss orders, diversifying portfolios, and maintaining a disciplined approach to trading.

The online surge of the best Forex traders extends beyond individual efforts, with the rise of social trading platforms. These platforms foster a sense of community where traders can share insights, strategies, and market analyses. Emerging traders can observe and emulate the tactics of seasoned professionals, creating a collaborative environment that contributes to the collective success of the community.

In the vast expanse of the financial market online, the best Forex traders are the captains of their ships, skillfully navigating the waves and turning market volatility into opportunities for financial gain. Their ability to adapt to changing conditions, harness technology, and manage risks positions them at the forefront of the dynamic world of online Forex trading.

[momo-no-tane]

Princess Cafe has revealed more information about the second wave of goods that will be sold at the five currently ongoing Shugo Chara! Pop Up Shops. The second wave of goods is scheduled to be released September 14th, 2024. For every 2,000 yen spent, customers will receive a random trading card. There are 8 types available. The goods will also be available for sale online in the future.

Locations:

[Tokyo] Shibuya N-space from August 26th, 2024 to October 2nd, 2024.

[Osaka] Abeno Harukas from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

[Kanagawa] K-Arena Shop from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

[Tochigi] FKD Utsunomiya Interpark Mall from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

[Okinawa] Naha Airport International Air Route Entrance from August 26th, 2024 to September 24th, 2024.

Goods (Tax Included):

Hinamori Amu Birthday Acrylic Stands (6 Types) - 1,650 yen

Hinamori Amu Birthday Pin Buttons (8 Types) (Random) - 550 yen

Hinamori Amu Birthday Cards (8 Types) (Random) - 330 yen

Hinamori Amu Birthday Charms (6 Types) - 770 yen

Uniform Motif Keychains (6 Types) (Random) - 770 yen

Heart Shaped Pin Buttons (8 Types) (Random) - 660 yen

Source: X

[ash-mcj]

Hi, me again. In your Derek's Person story, Derek is taught how to play MTG from his friend. Do you think he would pass this on to the rest of the pack? If he did, what would the packs decks look like? For example, I run a green/white token deck that leans towards Phyrexian's. Can't wait to see the answers. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Heyy—I saw this right after school and had to RUSH home to answer lol. You play MTG?? Do you play MTG Arena (the online version of MTG)?? I play a green/red (gruul) werewolf deck that I've put way too much money into (those day/night flip cards are so fun).

Now for the series... Derek (and Paige) were taught by Camden and Jordan. In the current fic, Cam, Jordan, and Paige will be very affiliated with the Stilinskis—so they will absolutely be teaching the Beacon Hills pack (Stiles, Scott, Isaac, etc.) how to play. Derek will not be willing to spend enough time with the New York Hales to teach them, but the game will be living on in Beacon Hills (and waiting for him to play when he returns).

As for their decks... hmm...

Jordan has a white/green lifegain deck. Camden has a red/green werewolf deck (which he thinks is killer, but it's kinda weak because he just picked the cards that looked the coolest). I think Derek would kick ass with either a blue/black zombie deck or a blue/black/white vampire deck... I'll have to think about it. (or he has a blue/black/white zombie vampire deck?) I think Paige would have a red/green/white dinosaur deck and would use Polyraptor to fuck everyone over at every given chance. Stiles would have an unbeatable red/green werewolf deck with Tovolar, Dire Overlord as his commander (I also have this commander, but I think Stiles would perfect the deck in ways I never could...and Camden will be pissed that this child he taught has made a similar deck but 100x better). Scott... baby boy would have a mono white angel deck. Isaac would probably have a mono blue merfolk deck. (I could see them trading cards until they both end up with blue/white angelic merfolk decks). Malia would have a red/black burn deck that she is absolutely ruthless with.