#this level of excellence won’t be replicated

[joeyhiller23]

Beyond the Badge: 4 Sustainable Competitive Advantages for Police Agencies in Providing Public Safety and Security

A sustainable competitive advantage is a unique attribute or capability that allows a company or organization to outperform its competitors in the long run. What companies do you think hold a significant sustainable competitive advantage? Why does competitive advantage only get mentioned in the business world though? In the case of a police agency, a sustainable competitive advantage can work the same way as it does for a business but provide a different outcome. For a police department you want your competitive advantage to be a unique attribute or capability that allows the agency to provide better safety and security services than its competitors over the long run. Same idea as a business, just a different outcome. Here are some examples of sustainable competitive advantages that a police agency can have:

Advanced technology and data analytics: A police agency that invests more in advanced technology and data analytics can have a sustainable competitive advantage in terms of crime prevention and resolution. In an article by Sintelix they talk about two crucial analytical tools that help police officers. One is predicting and monitoring crime locations and the other is criminal identification. Through various databases, web/social media data, and other factors cops can use advanced technology to predict locations of where crime may appear next or prevent a crime from ever happening. If you invest in advanced technology and data, you also can have better identification systems that can detect the face of a criminal and allow the police to arrest the person. All in all, analytics and better technology will set your department apart from the rest.

What ways do you think Police officers can benefit from advanced technology and data analytics that are different than the ideas listed above?

2. Specialized units and expertise: A policy agency that has specialized units and expertise coming from different areas can have a sustainable competitive advantage over other agencies because it can provide a higher level of service in specific areas that smaller/other agencies can’t. For example, if you have units that focus on counterterrorism, bomb squads, drug enforcement, SWOT, cybercrime, etc. you can prevent more crimes from happening and this allows for more job opportunities in your department. It also allows people that have knowledge in certain areas to do a job they have trained for in order to make sure everything goes smoothly. Are there any specialized units you think police should invest more into?

Picture via: City of Sacramento

3. Leadership and Management: Policy agencies that have effective leadership and management can create a work culture that is focused on excellence which can lead to better public safety. It is important to have a leader that officers want to work for and will follow their orders. This allows for the best overall safety for your town/city/state and the most efficient way to handle the prevention of crime. A great leader/upper management can also be a sustainable competitive advantage as other agencies will try to copy what you do, but they won’t be able to do the same because they don’t have your Chiefs, Sergeants, Commanders, Captains, etc… This really sets your department apart from the rest and can lead to your agency becoming very competitive/a prestigious department to work for.

4. Community-based Policing/Events: A police agency that has strong ties with its community and engages in community-based policing can build trust and credibility in the community. What ways does your local police agency interact with the public? A strong tie within the community is a sustainable competitive advantage as it allows for better cooperation, can help prevent crimes, better resolutions to problems, and it is difficult for other agencies to replicate the relationship you have within your own community. Where I grew up our local police department did a lot with our community and as a result people were friendly with the police and the crime rate around me was low. It pays to have a good relationship with the people you are going to protect/save!  

A police agency can have a sustainable competitive advantage through their technology and analytics, having specialized units, good leadership, and community-based policing. Especially in today’s world, law enforcement agencies must create a positive perception among the public to increase trust and cooperation. This is the reality due to the tendency of the mainstream media to exaggerate or in most cases choose very select incidents, which shine a negative light on police officers. There is a saying "All Cops Are Bad," but do you think this is true? Agencies are reconstructing their forces and if they implement these ideas they can have a significant competitive advantage over their peers!

In what ways can law enforcement agencies change their perception?

[momsoon]

Redefining Fertility Education: MOMSOON Academy’s Hands-On Approach to Learning

In today’s fast-moving world of reproductive medicine, true expertise demands more than knowledge—it requires hands-on mastery. Whether you’re a seasoned professional fine-tuning your skills or just embarking on your career, immersive, practical training is key to excelling in this highly specialized field. Yet, traditional learning methods often fall short, offering theory without real-world application.

At MOMSOON Academy, we believe education should be an experience. Our clinical embryology courses are designed to break away from conventional, one-dimensional learning, offering an approach where theory meets practice—so you’re not just learning, you’re becoming a master in the lab.

Why MOMSOON Academy is Different

1. Hands-On Learning for Real-World Impact

At MOMSOON Academy, we go beyond textbooks to give you real-life experience. Our programs are designed to replicate actual lab settings, where you’ll develop critical skills through simulated exercises. This approach allows you to practice, refine, and perfect your techniques in a safe, controlled environment before stepping into the professional world. By the time you leave, you’ll be confident and capable of handling the most complex tasks in the lab.

2. Expert Faculty with Real-World Expertise

Our instructors are not just educators—they are some of the leading minds in reproductive medicine, including renowned embryologists and reproductive specialists. You won’t just learn textbook knowledge; you’ll benefit from their deep expertise, industry insights, and real-world problem-solving experience, preparing you to meet the challenges you’ll face in your career head-on.

3. Interactive, Engaging Learning Environment

At MOMSOON Academy, we believe learning should be an engaging, interactive experience. Our courses are designed to encourage collaboration and open discussions. You’ll work closely with peers, dissect real case studies, and participate in hands-on workshops where critical thinking and problem-solving are at the forefront, ensuring a deeper understanding of the material.

4. Stay Ahead with Cutting-Edge Techniques

Reproductive medicine is constantly evolving, and staying on top of the latest innovations is essential. Our curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the newest techniques, technologies, and breakthroughs in embryology and reproductive health. When you train at MOMSOON Academy, you’re learning the most current methods that are shaping the future of the field.

5. Tailored Courses to Fit Your Career Path

Whether you’re looking for foundational knowledge or advanced specialization, MOMSOON Academy has a program for you. We offer a wide range of courses designed to meet various skill levels and career goals, from introductory courses to highly specialized workshops that equip you with in-demand skills in reproductive medicine.

The MOMSOON Academy Experience:

Mastery Through Practice: We go beyond lectures and textbooks. Our hands-on training model ensures you gain practical, applicable skills that allow you to excel in the lab.

Holistic Development for Well-Rounded Professionals: Our training doesn’t just focus on the technical side. We emphasize the emotional, ethical, and interpersonal aspects of reproductive medicine, preparing you to be a compassionate, thoughtful, and well-rounded professional.

A Community That Fosters Growth: At MOMSOON Academy, you’ll be part of a supportive, collaborative environment where you can freely ask questions, share insights, and connect with like-minded professionals. You’ll leave with not only knowledge but a network of peers and mentors that will support you throughout your career.

Elevate Your Career Today

Your journey to becoming a leader in reproductive medicine starts here. MOMSOON Academy offers the immersive, hands-on learning experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice, giving you the confidence and skill to thrive in your field.

Don’t just learn—experience the MOMSOON Academy difference. Enroll in our clinical embryology courses today and take the next step toward mastering your career.

[mad4detailing]

DIY vs. Professional Car Detailing: What Products Do the Pros Use?

Car detailing can transform your vehicle's appearance, making it look as good as new. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer professional detailing services, knowing what car care products are used can help you make informed decisions. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between DIY and professional car detailing and reveal the products that professionals trust.

DIY Car Detailing: What You Need

DIY car detailing is perfect for car owners who enjoy working on their vehicles and want to save some money. While you won’t have access to the full range of professional-grade tools, you can still achieve excellent results with the right car care products. Here’s what you’ll need:

Car Wash Soap: Using a high-quality car wash soap is essential for removing dirt and grime without stripping away wax or damaging the paint.

Microfiber Towels: These are a must-have for wiping down surfaces, drying your car, and preventing scratches.

Car Wax or Sealant: To protect your car’s paint, a good wax or sealant can provide a glossy finish and shield the surface from the elements.

Interior Cleaners: DIYers often use all-purpose cleaners for the interior, but ensure they are safe for different surfaces like leather, plastic, and fabric.

Tire Cleaners and Dressings: Keeping tires clean and shiny is an essential part of detailing. Choose tire cleaners that remove brake dust and dressings that enhance the tire's appearance.

Glass Cleaner: For streak-free windows, use a glass cleaner specifically formulated for automotive use.

While DIY detailing allows you to keep your car looking great on a budget, it does require time, effort, and some investment in quality car care products.

Professional Car Detailing: What Sets It Apart?

Professional car detailing goes beyond a basic wash and wax. Experts have access to advanced tools and premium car care products that deliver a superior level of cleaning and protection. Here’s what professionals typically use:

Ceramic Coatings: Ceramic coatings offer long-lasting protection, providing a hydrophobic layer that repels water, dirt, and other contaminants. It’s a step above traditional wax and is often used by detailing pros for that ultra-glossy, durable finish.

Paint Protection Film (PPF): This clear film protects your car’s paint from scratches, chips, and other damage. Professionals often use PPF on high-impact areas like the front bumper, hood, and mirrors.

Professional-Grade Polishers: Rotary and dual-action polishers are used to correct paint imperfections, swirl marks, and scratches. These machines, paired with the right compounds, can restore your car’s paint to a showroom shine.

Steam Cleaners: Steam machines are popular among professionals for their ability to clean and disinfect interiors without the use of harsh chemicals. They are particularly effective for cleaning upholstery, carpets, and hard-to-reach areas.

Specialized Cleaners and Degreasers: Professionals use specific cleaners for different surfaces, including pH-balanced wheel cleaners, tar removers, and interior conditioners that maintain the integrity of materials.

Detailing Brushes and Tools: Pros have a wide array of brushes and tools for every detailing task, from intricate wheel brushes to specialized applicators for wax and sealant.

Why Professional Detailing is Worth It

While DIY detailing can be satisfying and cost-effective, professional car detailing offers a level of expertise and access to car care products that can’t be easily replicated at home. Pros know the right products and techniques to use for every surface, ensuring your car gets the best treatment.

Investing in professional detailing not only enhances your car’s appearance but also preserves its value over time. For those who want to experience top-tier results, booking a session with a professional detailing service is the way to go.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to detail your car yourself or leave it to the pros, the key is using high-quality car care products. DIY detailing can be rewarding, but for the ultimate finish and protection, professional detailing with premium products like ceramic coatings, PPFs, and steam cleaners is unmatched. Whatever route you take, your car will thank you for it!

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need recommendations on the best car care products for your detailing needs!

[cagemasterfantasy]

Eldritch Knight Ranking (5e)

Guide

1=useless

2=often useful

3=sometimes useful

4=perfect

Spellcasting 4 spellcasting is what defines Eldritch Knight. You’re limited almost entirely to Abjuration and Evocation spells but those offer plenty of options which work for Fighter. Be sure to pick up an offensive cantrip like Booming Blade which you can use alongside weapon attacks with War Magic. You’ll get just 1 spell of each spell level which isn’t restricted to Abjuration/Evocation so be VERY careful when picking those spells

Weapon Bond 2 very cool but it rarely has any mechanical impact unless you plan to throw your weapon or want to appear unarmed somewhere. Casting spells like Light or Darkness on your bonded weapon before throwing it means that you can place the spell effect at greater range and recall the weapon in order to throw it again. But this combo is both more work and less effective than most methods for abusing magical darkness. You can accomplish some odd shenanigans like bonding to oversized weapons or even siege weapons in order to freely teleport a massive object to yourself but be cautious about how much your DM will tolerate before they have your bonded trebuchet appear over your head

War Magic 4 with the addition of new cantrips in Sword Coast Adventurer’s Guide War Magic is better than ever. Using either Booming Blade or Green-Flame Blade in conjunction with the Bonus Action attack from War Magic deals more total damage than a Fighter making normal attacks at any level and offers tactical options that you simply can’t replicate by just swinging a weapon

Eldritch Strike 3 since your Intelligence won’t be as high as that of a real Wizard DCs can be a real problem. Imposing disadvantage will make your spells considerably more effective. This can enable some interesting combinations like hitting a bunch of adjacent enemies then hitting them with Sword Burst on your next turn or shooting a bunch of enemies with a bow then hitting them with Fireball on the next turn. If you’re facing single targets you can hit them every round with Toll the Dead and a weapon attack thanks to War Magic. Look for opportunities to put this to use but remember that War Magic is still your defining tactic

Arcane Charge 3 this is as much movement as using the Dash action so combined with Action Surge you get to do almost as much as you could in a complete additional turn (you still don’t get a second Bonus Action)

Improved War Magic 4 drop a huge spell then stab/shoot someone. Next turn capitalize on Eldritch Strike to impose Disadvantage and hit the target with another spell

Final Ranking 4 a fantastic combination of combat prowess and offensive magic Eldritch Knight is perhaps the simplest “gish” build combining Fighter’s excellent combat capabilities and durability with a splash of spellcasting from Wizard. While Eldritch Knight is fantastically durable and plenty effective they usually can’t compete offensively with Hexblade or Bladesinger both of which have considerably better spellcasting options but are nowhere near so capable of surviving in melee for extended periods. Mastering Eldritch Knight’s spellcasting comes with some pitfalls which are easy to fall into and end up with an ineffetive build. Since Eldritch Knight’s spellcasting is Intelligence-based you need to put some resources into Intelligence but it’s easy to invest far more than necessary. Many spells will depend on your spellcasting modifier so it’s tempting to raise your Intelligence to get better fireballs and such but this is usually a poor investment. You can get by on very little Intelligence by sticking to spells which don’t care about your spellcasting modifier and still be extremely effective. Remember Eldritch Knight is still primarily Fighter so throwing fireballs is a rarity rather than your go-to tactic. While it’s totally possible to play Eldritch Knight at range it comes with some specific challenges. Since ranged attack cantrips all depend on your spellcasting modifier you can’t get by on as little Intelligence as melee Eldritch Knights. You’ll likely need to reduce your investment in Constitution to make up the difference. But in exchange for that trade you’re better situated to capitalize on Eldritch Strike using ranged attacks to prime enemies for cantrips like Acid Splash and Toll the Dead which will impose saves made at Disadvantage. Once you move up to Improved War Magic you can shoot several foes one round then fireball them the next round and impose Disadvantage on their saves.

[influencermagazineuk]

The Rise of the Machines: AI Soon To Replace Call Center Jobs?

The Rise of the Machines: AI Soon To Replace Call Center Jobs? The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ignited a conversation about its impact on the workforce, with call centers being a focal point. News reports and industry analyses often paint a bleak picture, predicting mass job losses. But is the reality so clear-cut? Let's delve into the potential impact of AI on call centers, explore the number of jobs potentially affected, and examine how the human touch will remain crucial in the future. AI's Growing Role in Call Centers: From Simple Tasks to Complex Interactions AI is rapidly transforming call centers. Initially, it tackled simple, repetitive tasks like routing calls to the appropriate department or answering frequently asked questions (FAQs). Today, AI-powered chatbots can handle more complex inquiries, gather initial information, and even resolve basic customer issues without human intervention. Advanced AI chatbots can leverage natural language processing (NLP) to understand customer intent and respond with relevant information or solutions. They can also learn and adapt over time, becoming more adept at handling diverse customer queries. The Numbers Game: Estimating Job Losses Due to AI Quantifying the exact number of call center jobs at risk of AI displacement is challenging. Estimates vary widely, with some reports suggesting as high as 80% of jobs potentially impacted in the coming decades. However, it's important to consider these figures with a critical lens. Firstly, the rate of AI adoption varies across industries and company sizes. Smaller call centers might be quicker to embrace AI solutions, while larger organizations with complex customer needs might require a more human-centric approach. Secondly, AI advancements might not eliminate jobs entirely, but rather transform them. Human call center agents might transition to supervisory roles, overseeing AI interactions, handling escalations, and providing specialized support. Beyond Automation: The Irreplaceable Human Touch While AI offers significant benefits in terms of efficiency and handling routine inquiries, human interaction remains essential in call centers. Here's why: - Complex Issues and Emotional Intelligence: AI struggles with complex customer issues requiring empathy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Human agents can navigate these situations effectively, offering personalized solutions and de-escalating frustrated customers. - Building Relationships and Trust: Building rapport and fostering trust with customers is crucial for brand loyalty. Human agents can connect with customers on a deeper level, build relationships, and provide a more personalized experience. - Sales and Upselling Opportunities: Human agents excel at upselling and cross-selling products and services based on a customer's individual needs. AI, while potentially offering suggestive selling based on purchase history, struggles to replicate the human touch in sales conversations. The future of call centers lies in a collaborative approach, where AI handles routine tasks and data analysis, freeing up human agents to focus on complex issues, relationship building, and strategic problem-solving. AI can empower agents by providing them with real-time customer data and insights, allowing them to personalize interactions and deliver exceptional customer service. AI will undeniably reshape the call center landscape. While some jobs might be lost due to automation, new opportunities will arise. The focus will shift towards developing a skilled workforce that can collaborate effectively with AI, leveraging its strengths while capitalizing on the irreplaceable value human interaction brings to customer service. The call center of tomorrow won't be staffed solely by machines; it will be a harmonious blend of human expertise and AI capabilities, ensuring a seamless and efficient customer experience. Read the full article

[jentlemahae]

i have thoughts. hybe don’t realise that they aren’t the reason *** is successful so trying to replicate it with their other groups won’t work. *** could release their english trilogy bcs 1) they had a gigantic fanbase who will stream anything (see: set me free) and 2) they already had an extensive body of work that had been performed and promoted in the west already. even though these english songs completely detracted from ***’s sound to the point where even the members themselves didn’t like it, they got their number ones and grammy noms so hybe want to reproduce that. however txt aren’t in the same boat so copy and pasting the strategy they used with *** isn’t working for them rn. txt aren’t on the level where they can get away with selling out

hybe also doesn’t quite understand the western music industry either. boy bands are looked down upon over here and so it is kind of vital for kpop bgs to do something that goes against the cookie cutter boyband idea so they can be taken seriously. westerners don’t want to hear a generic sell out boy band song, we got enough of those. txt have a pretty great discography and imo a lot of their songs can be taken seriously. 0x1 lovesong is a great example of this. their latest mini was very good too and i feel like performing both srr and tinnitus would have been received much more positively

the way the west vs kpop approach performing is very different too. in the us it doesn’t matter how well you can dance, vocals will always come first. that isn’t the case with kpop anymore especially with hybe. txt are very excellent dancers but the western audience didn’t vibe bcs the vocals weren’t totally there

ohh i definitely agree! they got extremely lucky with ***, and imo it was more of a “right place right time” situation and not due to efforts by the company (very similar to bp in that aspect)

also i think that something hybe’s is not really grasping is what people value the most in the west - genuineness and authenticity. this was kind of what set *** apart at first bcs most locals thought that all kpop idols were fabricated or whatever (which is xenophobic but that's beside the point) but *** were writing their own songs and had a very self-made image at first, so they managed to stand out. and i think the english trilogy actually did a lot of harm to that bcs *** became just another cookie cutter bg and it stagnated their career as a group in the eyes of the gp. and now, hybe is trying to hit it big in the west with groups formed via survival show, which i think again goes to show that they don't understand the western music industry bcs having groups thrusted together goes against that image of genuineness and earnestness that western locals value (which is why i have some serious doubts that it’ll work)

and tbh basically all kpop companies don’t understand the western music industry well, not just hybe - they all try to replicate the career trajectory of *** and bp, but it just ….. does not work, bcs i think they’re all failing to understand that those groups managed to get the success that they achieved in certain circumstances, and now the circumstances are different! so the groups should be marketed/promoted in a different way! u cant just replicate what worked in the past!

and 100% agree for txt - that song wasn’t really a good choice for them and honestly didn’t do them any favours :| tinnitus would have been the best choice imo if we’re talking about recent songs

also i don't agree 100% on ur last comment - yes vocals have to at least be decent, but i don't think they really come first. people want u to put on a show and do something fun and memorable and unique! vocals can only get u so far

[printedelectronics]

Waterproof, washable keyboards that help prevent cross-contamination in medical offices & healthcare facilities, industrial computing, at the office, and even at home where a spill-proof keyboard and mouse can be very handy.

There’s no need to stress if you have a waterproof keyboard. They are resistant to spills, so you can wipe them down and carry them on. Some keyboards have a higher resistance rating than others. These ratings indicate the extent of a keyboard’s resistance to water, dust, and other foreign objects.

 Here are some of the best waterproof keyboard.

 SteelSeries Apex 3

The Steelseries Apex 3 offers impressive value but still has great performance and durability. This full-size gaming waterproof keyboard uses durable membrane switches with an expected life expectancy of around 20 million presses. You don’t get the click of mechanical keys, but they’re silent and contribute to the waterproofing. You also get a massive removable wrist rest to keep you comfortable for long gaming sessions.

One of the best features of this keyboard is the IP32 waterproof rating. A rating of IP32 means it won’t be affected by vertically dripping water, even if it’s tilted 15 degrees. The rating also means that the Steelseries Apex 3 is protected against dirt and dust getting inside. As a bonus, the Apex 3 also features 10-zone RGB lighting.

 Logitech G213

The Logitech G213 is an affordable keyboard with many good features. It uses membrane keys that do a good job of replicating the feel of a fully mechanical switch. There are also media keys, a Game Mode switch, and a dedicated button to toggle the RGB lighting. There are five programmable RGB lighting zones, but the colors are subdued compared to many rivals.

This keyboard also has some handy features like a huge wrist rest and a long, braided cable. According to Logitech, the G213 has a spill resistance of 60 milliliters, so you won’t have to worry about dropping your drink on it. This keyboard is perfect if you want a gaming keyboard that doubles as an office keyboard.

 Perixx PERIBOARD-517

The Periboard-517 looks like a regular office keyboard, but it takes waterproofing to another level. It’s IP65 certified, meaning it is protected from water and dust. You can even wash this keyboard, and it has holes at the bottom to drain the excess water. The only caveat is that users cannot get the USB port wet.

 Apart from the IP65 certification, the Periboard-517 is a regular office keyboard available in black or full white. It’s tough and affordable, but more suited to a business setting. The membrane keys have an average response, and there isn’t any backlighting, programmable keys, or other features preferred by hardcore gamers.

 Corsair K68 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Corsair K68 is better for gaming, but costs double the price of the Periboard-517. It has Cherry MX Red switches with excellent feedback that is favored by top gamers. This keyboard is highly customizable when paired with the ICUE app. There’s per-key RGB lighting, and you can sync it with your mouse, monitor, and other devices. You can also set up macros for certain games to quickly access inventory items or initiate certain commands.

The K68 looks like a regular keyboard but comes with a wrist rest, media keys, and adjustable lighting. The IP32 rating makes it resistant to spills, and there’s silicone protecting the internals and drainage holes at the bottom. The Corsair K68 is durable and has outstanding gaming performance.

[sliderobes]

Melamine Wardrobe Doors

If you want a budget friendly, attractive and durable wardrobe that is easy to maintain, melamine wardrobe Doors are an excellent option.

Made from resin-filled paper that is permanently fused to a particleboard substrate, melamine is one of the most durable cabinet materials available.

Easy to maintain

Melamine wardrobe Doors are extremely easy to maintain and clean, especially compared to wood. They can be cleaned with warm damp cloths and a cleaning solution or antibacterial wet wipes.

They are also waterproof and do not require re-staining or sealing over the years. In addition, they can be installed in humid climates without worry of warping.

Moreover, they are available in an array of colours and wood looks, making them suitable for almost any interior décor.

In fact, these types of doors are the perfect fit for any modern style home and can be customised to suit your needs.

They can be made to be slid open or closed with hinged doors, as well as a combination of both. You can also choose from a wide range of hardware to finish the look of your wardrobe.

Aesthetically pleasing

Melamine wardrobe doors are aesthetically pleasing due to their durability and variety of decor options. They are available in a wide range of textures and natural wood grains that add a touch of personality to any interior space.

They are also scuff and stain-resistant, making them an excellent choice for homes with children. They also have a wide colour range, so you can easily choose a finish that matches your decor.

Besides being aesthetically pleasing, Melamine wardrobes are also affordable. They are less expensive than materials like MDF or plywood and can be used to create a custom fitted bedroom wardrobe for a fraction of the cost.

They are also resistant to heat, cold, moisture and insects. These qualities make them a great option for insulating your bedroom closet.

Durable

If you’re looking for an affordable, attractive and hard-wearing material to use in your wardrobe, look no further than Melamine. It’s made by saturating paper layers with a resin-filled coating, then heating them to fuse them together with a particleboard substrate.

Compared to MDF and plywood, this process gives melamine a more uniform texture at the microscopic level, which makes it far more shatter-resistant than the two other materials.

It’s also less prone to water damage thanks to its plastic coating and a good drying process. However, be sure to dry the doors thoroughly if they get wet so that no water can seep into the particleboard substrate.

You can also choose to paint a melamine wardrobe door to change its appearance. However, it’s important to prep and prime the surface before painting, so that the paint will adhere more easily.

Affordable

Melamine is a relatively new material, but it has quickly caught on as a cost-effective, high-performance alternative to plywood. It comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, has a wipe clean surface, and is highly resistant to everyday wear and tear.

It also resists water damage like a champ. Thanks to a plastic coating, water won’t delaminate melamine.

Aside from that, melamine is a popular choice because of its impressive color and pattern options. It can also replicate a variety of wood grains and solid colors, which gives designers plenty of creative license to express their design style.

The other big wig in the melamine cabinet doors category is European textured melamine (ETM). While it might seem counterintuitive that a plastic coated door could be durable, ETM stands up better to everyday bumps and scratches than standard textured melamine. It is also thicker, which helps it fend off the aforementioned water damage. It’s also a lot more affordable, making it a great option for your closet.

[remii-electric-fireplaces]

Remii – Best Electrical Fireplaces

As the freezing wind starts blowing and winter starts announcing it’s incoming the temperature level at our thermometer drops. To avoid getting frozen during this time we all start looking for ways to keep ourselves warm. What can be better and more affordable than heating appliances from remii.com? They are of excellent quality and can win hearts with their stylish looks. Getting cozy during winter does not necessarily come with a heavy bill to pay and that is made possible by remii.

Remii has an attractive range of electric fireplaces and accessories too. No matter where you want to fix your electric fireplace you will find a fireplace suitable for every wall. Slim, Tall, or three-sided choose any that fits your taste.

A few Ideas to Make Your Fireplace Stand Out-

You can place your electric fireplace on a wall covered with marble to make heads turn. The wall will act as a centre of attention.

You can choose to place your electric fireplace on a wall painted with bold colours to elevate the look of the wall and generate focus on the fireplace.

Using different fire media for your electric fireplace like transparent crystals. This will set your fireplace apart from others. And to get them you don’t have to look any further either because you can get them from remii. Not only will you get transparent crystals, one can also get colored ones like blue and orange.

Natural Looking Decoratives-

If you are someone who is more into the natural look and the sight of the logs in a fireplace soothes your eyes then you can get log sets from remii. There is a variety of log sets available like- birch and oak logs. Adding wood to your electric fireplace will make it look like a traditional one.

You can enjoy the feel of being in front of a traditional fireplace even if it’s not.

The fireplaces by remii can replicate the traditional fireplace by showing realistic flames and also the sound of wood burning.

Remii has some online retailers, the name of them is listed below: –

WoodlandDirect

Outdoorflames

FireplacesDirect.com

Electricflames

Spotix

HomeDecorey

Stylish Fireplaces

eFireplace Store

Remii believes in keeping things as slim as possible because it not only looks good but also saves up a lot of space.

One must give a try to their electric fireplaces because it is a great way of staying warm during winter without having to deal with soots released from traditional fireplaces. These fireplaces are easy to operate and one does not have to go set up logs. Just by the help of a remote one can control their fireplace. Electric fireplaces by remii do not need maintenance oftenly and even when it is needed the cost for it is a lot less compared to traditional fireplaces.

In the case of traditional fireplaces, it is impossible to change their location so even if you want to make changes to your interior you cannot do much about your traditional fireplace.

If one gets an electric fireplace, they won’t have to get logs or gas to start generating heat. Even one can control heat easily. Fireplaces are not only for keeping us warm but also, they are becoming an attractive feature of households.

You can relax at your home and your electric fireplace will get delivered to your doorstep. Just choose the one you would like at your home through the online catalog.

The stress of going and checking out several stores to find the right product will make a person exhausted, so we have our online catalog where you can choose your desired product.

[cagemasterfantasy]

Alchemist Rating (5e)

Guide

1=useless

2=often useful

3=sometimes useful

4=perfect

Tool Proficiency 4 Alchemical items are fantastic though there is an admittedly limited menu of them in 5e

Subclass Spells

Level 3 Healing Word and Ray of Sickness 3 Healing Word is among the most essential spells in the game. Ray of Sickness is bad.

Level 5 Melf's Acid Arrow and Flaming Sphere 3 decent offensive options but nothing spectacular

Level 9 Gaseous Form and Mass Healing Word 4 both options are useful in extremely common situations

Level 13 Blight and Death Ward 4 a decent single-target damage option and an absolutely crucial buff

Level 17 Cloudkill and Raise Dead 3 Raise Dead is situational and by this level other spellcasters have much better ways to raise the dead. Cloudkill is decent damage but only if you can find a way to hold enemies in the area

Experimental Elixer 4 this is intentionally hard to predict which makes it hard to rely upon. When you get multiple elixirs you’ll have several chances to get effects you care about but the free elixirs are still random. Since you roll the effects of the elixirs when they’re created you at least know what their effects will be so you’re not passing out random mystery cocktails to your party. You can also spend a spell slot to create an additional elixir which means that these are something like 1st-level spells. Think of the free elixirs like a surprise that might be exactly what you need but don’t count on them. Instead expect to spend spell slots for elixirs

Healing 3 basically a Potion of Healing. Nothing fancy but always nice to have. When you later gain Restorative Reagents this can be a great option because it both restores lost hit points and grants a pad of temporary hit points. This provides as much healing as casting Cure Wounds as a 1st-level spell but you also have the option of giving the elixir to an ally so that they could use it themselves and once you get Restorative Reagents it becomes much more powerful than anything that a 1st-level spell slot could replicate

Swiftness 2 situational but the duration is nice and long and it stacks with things like Longstrider

Resilience 3 similar to Shield of Faith but half the effect and more costly to start. Still with a 10-minute duration the recipient can drink it ahead of time. A good buff for your party’s melee characters especially if they’re working with relatively poor AC

Boldness 4 similar to Bless for a single target and it notably stacks with Bless. With a 1-minute duration the recipient will need to drink it immediately before combat starts or during combat which is a hard way to spend an Action. I would happily spend 1st-level spell slots to buff my party’s martial characters with this

Alchemical Savant 4 the ability to fly even at such low speed can solve a ton of problems

Transformation 2 situational. Alter Self normally requires Concentration so the fact that this doesn’t is great despite the shorter duration

Alchemical Salvant 4 add your Intelligence modifier to things like Healing Word but also to things like Acid Splash Fire Bolt and Poison Spray. This makes Acid Splash a very exciting cantrip because applying that damage to two targets is very effective but you still want Fire Bolt as your go-to damage option for single targets

Restorative Reagents 3 easy access to Lesser Restoration without expending your extremely limited spell slots is nice and the temporary hit points are a welcome addition to Experimental Elixir because it means that even the least-useful elixir still provides a tangible benefit

Chemical Mastery 4 2 damage resistances and you can cast 2 extremely powerful healing spells for free each day without material components

Final Ranking 3 Alchemist adds a number of excellent healing and support options to Artificer but doesn’t fundamentally change how the core class functions. You won’t be able to match the healing power of a full caster like Cleric but you’ll be able to cover those capabilities well enough to replace a Cleric in most parties and Experimental Elixir expands your magical options to help support and protect your allies with temporary elixirs which work like potions

[influencermagazineuk]

How AI & GPT-3 are affecting content writing

AI is growing faster than ever. Experts have predicted that the global AI market will keep growing year after year. Artificial Intelligence has touched almost all fields and not just writing. For example, there are AI tools, such as DreamStudio AI, that can generate a piece of art based on a few instructions. Although there's no need to worry about AI yet, it is important to know how IT will impact writers and other professionals in the future. Will AI be so powerful that it will replace the need for writers to create original content by editing computer-generated articles? 5 human skills essential to AI Advantage We're still a long way off from being able to program computers to be intelligent and adaptive enough so that they can compete with us. Thus, AI writing tools are not a threat to content marketing jobs and writers in general. We still have some tricks in our arsenal to win the human vs. artificial intelligence battle. Creativity Artificial intelligence excels at transforming data into written content. It's not that the facts aren't there. They are presented in grammatically and legibly correct sentences. But it is missing something. It's impossible to program creativity into machines yet. However, the human brain is far ahead of artificial intelligence or any other creature in this department. Passion You can feel the author's soul in every written word, whether it is a poem, book, or article. It's obvious that most writers love their work. There is something to say about human tenacity. There's no way. However, sophisticated our AI programs are, to replicate the sentiment, passion, and commitment that allows us to connect so deeply with each other through indirect means. Empathy Robots are capable of many things but cannot feel emotions or put themselves in the shoes of others to better understand their challenges. As a result, AI won't replace people in fields that require a human-like connection, such as customer service. Experience The value of real experience cannot be matched by any amount of data, just as pictures of exotic locations on Google are not the same thing as actually traveling to those places. AI writing can also feel hollow if it isn't based on experiences. Judgement Computers can be programmed to choose based on parameters. However, this is not the same thing as developing judgment skills. Human copywriters use values, experience, and intuition to create topics that resonate with the audience. Some writers allow their writing to guide them in ways they didn't intend to. As we write, we make decisions. The AI is not yet intuitive or adaptable at that level. AI is more likely to repeat information than to change topics if the article's flow dictates it. This is because AI has to adhere to a set of guidelines or topics. AI is an enhancement tool, not a replacement for human labour Humans will always be needed to write content for people and businesses. AI is not able to create search-engine-optimized content (SEO), among other categories. AI is a powerful tool that will continue to play a significant role in our daily lives, even if it has some flaws. Express Writers has embraced AI to supplement our existing resources rather than fighting the changes. We've tried several AI tools, but our favourite is Generative Pre-Trained Transformer 3 (GPT-3). The AI language tool can help writers by: - Providing ideas to jumpstart creativity: By allowing AI to provide suggestions, our writers can overcome writer's blocks. - Creating first drafts: With some guidance, AI can create usable material. It just requires some editing and TLC to give it a human touch. - Cutting production time by almost 50%: With a little help, we can reduce the time spent researching topics and rushing through rough drafts. Takeaway The AI is improving in its ability to mimic the way humans communicate. However, it still hasn't mastered our natural speech. When writing well, it is important to avoid repetition of words, phrases, and sentence structures. We like to change things up. After a while, AI can sound robotic. It is improving. Human writers are the future. AI will never replace the content writer, but it is a useful tool to help them. Writers who are passionate about their craft and embrace the tools they use rather than fearing them will have no worries in the future. FAQs Q: How does GPT-3 work? A: GPT-3 uses a deep learning architecture called a transformer, pre-trained with massive amounts of text data to produce human-like language output promptly when given an instruction. Using probabilistic language generation techniques, the model generates words based on how likely each one is given the previous words in sequence. Q: Is GPT-3 capable of creating new knowledge or insights on its own? A: No, GPT-3 cannot produce original insights independently. Instead, it primarily uses input data trained into it to generate language output - this may result in novel or unexpected output depending on the input provided to it. Q: How can GPT-3 be used responsibly? A: GPT-3 can be used responsibly by ensuring the input data is of high quality, diversity, and impartiality. Furthermore, it's crucial to test and evaluate the output generated by the model to make sure that its language output meets the intended use cases accurately and appropriately. Lastly, one should carefully consider ethical considerations surrounding language models like GPT-3 before taking steps to minimize potential harm or unintended consequences of its usage. Read the full article

[duckprintspress]

How can I write quickly?

I (hi, I’m @unforth) have been asked frequently over the years how I write a lot quickly. I’m a pretty fast writer - for example, I wrote the 5600 words of my May Trope Mayhem fill from yesterday in under 2.5 hours. 

First, a little of my personal history for context. I’ve always written, starting from when I was able to string letters into (very poorly spelled) words and (horrible un-grammatical) sentences. When I started trying my hand at serious, professional-level fiction writing, I joined a community called novel_in_90, which was founded by the author Elizabeth Bear. The purpose of novel_in_90 was “to be NaNoWriMo but more realistic.” Instead of 50,000 words in 31 days, it was 67,500 words in 90 days, or 750 words a day. I participated in multiple rounds of novel_in_90 starting in mid-2005, and in 2007 I completed my first (godawful) novel. When I started, even writing a couple hundred words of day took me forever, but it got easier with time. 

During those same years, I also got a job that required I do professional writing on a deadline: I was a grant writer, and I only got paid when the grants won. That often meant working fast under high pressure, culminating in the weekend I wrote and edited an entire 40 pages grant that was due on Monday. I think, if I hadn’t had a solid foundation of “regular daily plodding writing,” I’d not have been able to marathon when the moment came...and it came because I had to, not because I wanted to. However, I learned a valuable lesson: I could. Subsequently, I found that, when I had the time and space and was rested enough to use my brain, I could bust out a huge amount. Like, I wrote an entire 150,000 word novel in 17 days.

My personal record is about 200,000 words in one month (it was the month I wrote that novel; I wasn’t tracking when I did that so I don’t know exactly), 25,000 words in a day, and I’ve topped out around 3,000 words an hour. I do know people who can do more...but not many.

Not everyone will be able to do this. Flat out, I MUST preface the rest of this post by saying that. Some people will find that writing fast fits their brain, and for others, it just won’t, and that’s okay. Fast doesn’t equal better, and it isn’t inherently “good” to write fast. Furthermore, even for those who can write fast, not everyone will find the same strategies helpful. I can share what works for me. Try out one item, some items, or all of these - if writing faster is something you want to be able to do, which it certainly never has to be. Use what works for you, and discard the rest.

Sit in your chair, put your fingers on your keyboard or touch screen, and write. You can’t write 1,000 words in half an hour until you write one word, however long that one word takes. I know saying this is obvious, but I’ve been asked “how can I write fast” by people who struggle to write at all...fast can’t be your priority until you’ve got a foundation of just writing. (Honestly...fast should never be your priority, but it might be helpful to you regardless, which can make it worth learning.)

Start small. Set an achievable goal, and make yourself meet that goal (daily, weekly, whatever) come hell or high water, no matter how long it takes you. Keep the goal small at first; you’re not trying to torture yourself, you’re trying to build a skill. If you set the goal high enough that you consistently fail, you’re not teaching yourself anything. And, if you find the goal IS too high...lower it. There’s no shame in working within your limits. Think of it like starting a new work out regimen: you wouldn’t try to run a 10k at a record time if you can’t run a mile slow. Treat your fingers and your brain the same way you’d treat your legs and joints. Give them time to grow, learn, and improve before you try to push yourself.

Trying to write daily is worthwhile if you want to work on your writing speed, because you’ll be forced to try to fit it in as you’re able - that might be ten minutes in your morning, or an hour in your evening, and it might vary from day to day, but making it daily means you have to fit it in somewhere.

Building skills takes time and isn’t easy. For some people, it will come easier than for others, and even when you’re fast, going from “I can write words fast” to “I can write damn good words fast” takes practice and dedication and accepting constructive criticism - speed alone will never be worth more than writing well.

Having a community can help. Ya’ll will check in on each other, cheer each other on, remind each other that missing a day or a goal isn’t the end of the world, and keep each other’s spirits up. If you don’t know other writerly folks online, I recommend Weekend Writing Marathon ( @weekendwritingmarathon ) as a good place to start (I used to be a mod there). Once you’re trying to work up to larger word counts in a day, remember that even writing fast will take minutes or hours. You can’t write 2,500 words in an hour if you don’t set an hour aside. Make sure you’re giving yourself the room and time you need to succeed.

You will probably never be able to do high, rapid word counts every day, every week, every month. The best runners in the world don’t run marathons every day. Set realistic long term goals.

Work on projects where you have a clear idea of where you’re going. I’m not saying “pantsers” can’t write fast, because of course they can, but if you want to write fast, and well, and coherently, to create a first draft that’s in pretty good shape, you’ll do better if you have a good sense of what you’re trying to accomplish with your story. That doesn’t mean you need to do all your world building up front, or have a complete outline (I never have either). All you really need is what happens next. I tend to plan projects - and write them - one full scene at a time, with only a vague idea what’s going to come after. (I’m personally a “plantser,” and the strategies in this post will likely be most effective to other plantsers.)

Visualize ahead of time what you’d like to write...but don’t get too attached to what you visualize. When I go to bed, I plan the next scene I’m going to compose, often to the least detail. I then forget all of it overnight, at least all the specifics, and I’m left with a general sense and shape of what’s to come. You’ll never be able to replicate the “perfect” dialog you pre-conceive, so give up on trying to. Instead, play through the scene and think about the emotional beats you want to hit and plot points you want to forward. If you keep that in mind, you’ll be able to get the words out faster than if you’re agonizing over every word or regretting the “oh-so-great” idea that you’ve since forgotten. 

Practice different work styles. If writing every day doesn’t work for you, try instead saying, “this is my writing day each week,” and aim for a lot that specific day, and write little or nothing other days. Try writing at different times of day and on different days, fitting it into your schedule. If you’re beating yourself up for not writing when you “should,” it’ll be that much harder to succeed, so instead, as I said for point 2 - set a reasonable goal that fits your life and working style, fitting it around your other responsibilities, and push yourself within that framework, instead of trying to shoehorn into a style that you “think you should” use to succeed. 

Track your word counts, and take notes on how much you did and what project you were working on. If you’re also experimenting with different times of day and different days, make sure you note that too. I personally use a simple Excel sheet (well, Google Sheets, now) - column one is the date, column 2 is “starting word count,” column 3 is “ending word count,” column 4 is “=column 3 - column 2”, column 5 is notes. Pay attention to when you succeed at writing faster, and when you don’t, and consider what factors might have played into your success...and then try to replicate those factors next time you’re doing a sprint. Control as many variables as you can while you’re “training.”

If you find social media distracting, trying getting a web browser extension that prevents you from connecting to websites for a set period of time.

If you find you tend to dither before starting, I find it helpful to run through everything that I might do to procrastinate (check my social media! grab a snack! make some tea! set up my playlist! check my social media again! finish making the tea! check my social media for what I swear will be the last time!), and when I’m done, it’s like, well, I’ve done all those things, I’ve got no choice left, time to write, no excuses left.

If you find you struggle with picking up a WIP, try leaving off in the middle of a sentence at the end of a session, one where you know exactly how it ends - or, leave off mid-paragraph, or when you are positive you know what happens next (and I mean literally next, as in the very next sentence.) It’s much easier to “pick back up” when your first words are super clear. (Do not do this if you think there’s any chance you’ll forget or end up in a situation where you won’t return to your WIP for months!) 

If you find you struggle to maintain continuity across multiple writing sessions, try rereading what you wrote the previous day before you proceed. Resist the urge to edit it!

Avoid stopping when you get stuck, even to do research. Don’t know a fact? Add a comment to your manuscript flagging the relevant text, “LOOK THIS UP LATER.” Can’t think of a word? Put in something you can use the “find” function on easily (I personally use “XX” since there are no words that have a double x in them) and so you can come back later, search for your chosen placeholder, and fill in the blanks. Not sure how a scene ends but know the next scene? Jump ahead.

That said, if you really don’t know what happens next, you don’t do yourself any favors by pressing on. As I’ve said previously, speed alone should never be your writing object. It’s better to slow down, consider your plot, figure out where you’re going, and then write, than to just plow ahead - or at least, that’s better if you want a manuscript you’ll actually be able to use for something at a later point. If you’re truly just practicing, you can also say “screw it, who needs coherence?” and keep going. I’d personally never have finished my first novel if I’d spent a lot of time worrying about making the pieces fit together and yeah, it’s a mess, but it’s a mess I wrote instead of a mess I got stuck on and never completed.

Don’t move the finish line. If you’ve set the goal of 500 words a day, don’t beat yourself up if you get 550 because you think you think you could have done more. If you say you’ll write five days a week, don’t get mad because you DID have time the sixth day but chose to use it on something else. If you make yourself feel like shit when you succeed, what’ll happen when you fail? And when you’re comfortable and really think you’re ready, change the goal - reassess every month, say, and up your goals. While working for speed, trying upping your word count goal without changing the amount of time you allot for working.

Your need to adhere to the above suggestions will change over time. Once, I always had an outline; now I often don’t need one. Once, I wouldn’t let myself stop even to use a thesaurus; now, I find I can look up words without breaking my flow or significantly slowing myself down. This is not an “all or nothing” prospect, nor is it a “do things the same way forever once you’ve found one (1) thing that works” prospect - you’ll experiment, and find strategies that work for you, and then at some point, your needs will change, and you’ll experiment more, and find new strategies that work for you, on and on, as your skills grow. 

To reiterate: writing fast should never be your objective in and of itself! Greater writing speed will come with practice and as a general side effect of improving your craft. Simply being able to write fast is useless; being able to write fast and well will enable you to get more of your ideas out there, so if that’s something you’d like to accomplish, focus on building your general skills and training yourself to be able to use those skills rapidly and in tandem with each other to produce decent writing, in a first draft, at a decent speed.

Once you try, you may find none of this works for you! That’s okay. That’s good! You tried, which means you learned something about yourself and your own writing style, and that too will help you to improve. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and find what does work for you - and accept that no two writers will ever be the same, and one of those differences will be writing speed. Some writers will never write fast, and that’s doesn’t make them any less awesome or valid. And some writers will always write fast, and that doesn’t make them inherently awesome or valid. Only with a suite of skills that suit your individual life, personality, work style, writing capabilities, goals, etc., will you succeed as a writer (for various, personalized definitions of the word “success”); speed is only one of those potential skills, and not one that’s particularly important in my opinion...yet I still get asked about it fairly often, so here we are, these are my suggestions

Go forth, and write some words! <3

[that-damn-girl]

(1) Daze of Pollen

(Work in Progress - 1 of 8; Slow updates)

Daze of Pollen Materlist

Pairing: (cis)fem!Reader x Bucky Barnes x Steve Rogers x Sam Wilson

Words: 1800+

Warnings: None except language?

Summary:  Bucky, Steve, Sam and you are in the safe house post mission when a retrieved Hydra device activates, releasing a kind of pollen you don’t know of, but the effects of which are soon discovered.

A/N: To all my horny bitches out there, I’m sorry the first chapter isn’t smutty. I didn’t plan on keeping the entire first chapter as the intro but it just...happened. Also, This is my submission for @buckyssoul​​ ‘s Rae Hit 1k Marvel Writing Challenge. I’m sorry for the delay. Hope you like it!

It is a strange concept, really. We don't always get what we want. But  if we do, it's when we least expect it, in the most strangest of ways as well.

Call it your good luck, fate, destiny, a simple mere coincidence, or whatever. You were grateful for that night in the safe house regardless. For the first and the last time, you could say that you were thankful for a little Hydra contraption.

It all started during a peaceful dinner. You and your group of friends were relaxing after a successful mission, treating yourselves with any and all comfort food available in the safe house. The mission was anticipated to be much harder than usual; the only reason why Bucky and Sam had asked you and Steve to accompany them. Quite unexpectedly, the mission went smoothly and it seemed there was no need for the extra help they had requested. But considering the mission consisted of scoping out an abandoned Hydra base, being overly cautious was preferred than being overconfident. One never knew the levels of villainy Hydra truly possessed.

Oh, you were about to discover the truth in that statement just fine.

Bucky sat across from you on the dining table, Sam to your right. The duo played catch with a balled sheet of paper, their half eaten meals abandoned on the table. You and Steve conversed with them while enjoying your respective sandwiches.

It was true that Steve had given up his Captain America mantle to Sam, a man just as deserving of the title, but hadn't completely retired. He didn't get out on the field anymore, but used his excellent strategic skills in planning the missions sometimes, especially if it included Hydra. 

All of you would have been enroute to the Compound had Rhodey and Scott not hogged the quinjet. None of you minded though. With the four of you together, it was very much like a quiet night in with close friends. Unbeknown to you, it wasn't going to be particularly quiet much longer.

"Does it smell funny to anybody else here?" Bucky asked, pausing midway while rocking his chair. Squinting his eyes, he glanced around himself to locate the source of the smell, a deep frown etched onto his features.

Steve took a tentative whiff, you and Sam doing the same. "No pal, I don't smell anything."

"It's…" Bucky closed his eyes, taking in deep inhales. "It's faint but it's there. I'm sure of it." 

You and Sam glanced at each other, a raised eyebrow followed by a shrug. Suddenly Bucky sat up with a start, his gaze fixating on a corner of the room. Following his line of sight, you found the hard black stacked containers with the Shield logo which held the Hydra files and devices you had retrieved from the base earlier in the mission. 

"It's coming from there, I think." Bucky stood up and reached the stacked containers in only a few long strides. Before any of you could stop him, he lifted the cover to inspect its contents. 

Immediately a puff of bright yellow powder-like substance was released from the inside, as if a smoke bomb had been triggered. Bucky coughed as the coloured dust hit his senses. It didn't take long for the particles to dissipate in the air. Soon the clean air around you was shrouded with the yellow dust, leaving all of you a coughing mess.

"What is it?" You wondered, one hand waving in front of your face to get rid of the dust while the other protectively covered your nose. It was no use though. It was everywhere, the particles so fine they slithered through the gaps between your fingers. You could do nothing but inhale it as you coughed helplessly. The particles stuck to the insides of your mouth. You couldn't feel them on your tongue or the roof of your mouth, but the dryness that followed was a sure shot indication. The tangy scent of it overwhelmed your senses, making you wonder how could you have missed it.

"Look inside the container, Bucky. See what released it." Sam instructed with broken words in between the coughs.

"Fucking Hydra," Steve muttered under his breath.

Following Sam's orders, Bucky peeked inside and pulled out a wooden cube. It was small enough to be grasped in his palm. One of its faces had the ugly red symbol of Hydra painted on it. The cube was heavily cracked along the sides. Had Bucky not held onto it firmly, it would have fallen apart right then. 

Sam, you and Steve drifted closer to Bucky as the yellow dust gradually dissipated into nothing - or rather as the most of it was already inhaled by you all. The cube appeared to hold some carvings in a language you supposed was Russian. 

"I...don't...understand…" Bucky's fingers drifted across the letters as he tried to make sense of it. "Fuck!" With widened eyes, Bucky retraced the words, confirming what he had read. Throwing the cube across the room, he started pacing the room, his head hidden behind his palms. 

"Come on, man, you're scaring me." Steve said, approaching his friend.

"You should be!" Bucky yelled, all his frustrations coming out on the wrong person. He loudly groaned, rubbing his forehead, "I'm sorry. It's just that…"

"What is it, Bucky?" You asked.

Bucky looked at you, his gaze sweeping over your form. He bit his lip, an almost remorseful look coming over in his eyes. In a much softer voice, he said, "I don't know how to explain it. I don't know where to start."

"Do you know what the yellow dust we all inhaled was?" Sam asked. 

Bucky replied after a long pause. "It was a sort of pollen which Hydra had engineered." 

"Hydra modified...pollen?" You asked. The idea sounded as bizarre to you as snow in the Sahara. "What?"

"No- Well, um, yes," Bucky took a deep breath before he started explaining. "Hydra could never replicate the super soldier serum they used on me. But they needed more super soldiers. It hardly ever happened that anybody else would succeed in recreating those serums so that Hydra could steal. They decided that if they couldn't transform using the serums, they would...breed super soldiers. That's when Project Growth started. These pollen were engineered to assist in it." 

"How did the pollen assist Project Growth?" You asked, confusion dripping from your voice.

Bucky glanced at you but quickly diverted his gaze, unable to keep the eye contact. "Project Growth was about using super soldiers like me and those four others to... impregnate willing women. Conception with super soldiers is harder than usual for some reason. So they came up with this pollen to aid the process. It's an aphrodisiac. They called it sex pollen, because well, it increases one's sexl drive... by a lot. So much so that it might be fatal if the person exposed to it doesn't, you know, climax."

"What? Are we gonna want to fuck like rabbits then? Become Hydra's breeding bitches?" Sam asked, crossing his arms in front of him.

"The experiments were never successful. They did it a couple of times and it never resulted in a pregnancy. This box," Bucky gestured to the broken cube lying on the floor, "I don't know how or when but it got activated somehow." He shrugged helplessly. "I have no idea if the pollen inside it was a sample of those failed experiments or if that of a new one. Either way, we don't have long before the effects would start showing."

There was a lull in the room, the implications of what Bucky said sitting heavy on everyone's minds.

"We can keep ourselves locked in our separate rooms until it wears off to...get ourselves off." Steve's cheeks were tinged a deep shade of red as he proposed the idea.

"It's not that easy. Trust me, I've been through it." Bucky looked at Steve. "It's something about needing another person's touch; a sense of intimacy. No matter what you do on your own, it won't ever be enough. It would send you in a daze of lust, where the only thing you could focus on would be to anyhow satiate yourselves. You would desperately want another person to touch you, no matter who or what gender. You'd need them to touch you." He glanced at each one of you. "I'm sorry, but it's going to be nasty."

"So what you're saying is, it's basically fuck or die?" Sam said.

"When you put it that way…" Bucky tried to think of a better phrase but finding none, he replied, "-Well, yes."

"I don't know what to say," You crossed your hands in front of your chest. To say that you were shocked was a massive understatement. You couldn't even begin to believe that any of it was true.

Unconsciously, your gaze drifted over each of the men in the room. They all stood with a hard look on their handsome faces, lost deep in thought. You weren't sure if it was you or the pollen due to which you felt yourself get wet, your panties gradually dampening and sticking to your form. 

Truth be told, you had always wondered what being with these men would feel like, what fucking them would be like. Would Sam choke you in a sensual manner with those bulging arms of his? Would Bucky keep you pinned to the bed with his thick thighs? What would gripping America's Ass feel like when Steve would be pumping his length into you?

You bit your lip, your mind conjuring up a train of lewd images. You wondered if it all would come true that night. Though you had considered them insanely attractive since the day you had met them, you never dared to act upon any of your desires with either of them. They were your close friends, and you'd be damned if you'd destroy it for a night of pleasure.

Now though, you had no other option but to fuck them if you valued your life. On any other day you would have laughed boisterously had anyone suggested such a thing, but it was your reality right then. 

You realized it didn't have to be a necessarily bad thing though

Huffing dramatically, you stood straighter, hands falling by your sides. With a newfound confidence, you asked, "Well then, what are we waiting for?"

"What?" Steve asked, dumbfounded. 

"At one point or the other, we would eventually go crawling to someone. I don't think we'd be in control of ourselves if it would make us that desperate. Avoiding the inevitable makes no sense. It's better to start it while we are still able to make conscious decisions and consent to being with each other. At least I'd prefer that."

The men looked at each other, a silent conversation happening amongst them. Bucky asked, "Are you sure, Y/N?" 

You smiled. "I am, Bucky. If it's gonna be this way, then I'm glad it's the three of you. Are you guys sure though?"

Bucky glanced at Sam and Steve before smirking, "You bet we are, babydoll."

You walked closer to Bucky, standing on the tip of your toes as your arms curved around his neck, excitement thrumming through your veins. "Let's get this show started then."

Chapter 2

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