#Acuris

[radwolf76]

Next layer deep, the sources for the 3D Models used to make the GIF have been researched.

I know I'm a few days late for Halloween, but here's a video with some important implications for the Skeleton War

So, we've all seen this gif. It turns out, there's much misinformation about the origins of it. In the same vein as Kevin Perjurer's deep dive into the Disney Channel Jingle, or hbomberguy's exposé on the Roblox OOF, another intrepid YouTube researcher has done the legwork and found the real story.

[judithan-xing]

Yuri Acuris, beacon of light

[jonathanreedacuris]

Identifying Niche Investment Opportunities

The allure of the untapped market beckons many investors. Niche markets, by definition, cater to specific segments within a broader industry. They present the potential for high returns due to less competition and a dedicated consumer base. However, navigating these avenues requires a keen eye and a calculated approach. This article explores strategies for identifying promising niche markets and delves into the advantages and considerations of such investing.

Identifying Niches

Specialized knowledge and expertise are key in identifying a niche. One effective approach involves turning personal interests into a springboard for discovery. If you possess a deep understanding of a particular hobby, activity, or product category, leverage that knowledge to explore unmet needs within that market. For example, an avid gardener might identify a gap in the market for organic, self-watering planters for urban balcony gardens.

Another strategy involves staying abreast of emerging industry trends. For instance, the growing popularity of plant-based diets has opened doors for investment in areas like vegan cheese alternatives or lab-grown meat substitutes. Following industry publications, attending trade shows, and analyzing consumer data can unveil these trends.

Everyday challenges faced by consumers can also translate into niche investment opportunities. For example, the rise of remote work has created a demand for ergonomic office furniture designed for home use. By identifying such “pain points,” investors can cater to a specific segment of consumers with a high willingness to spend.

Online forums, social media groups, and industry associations can be treasure troves for uncovering niche opportunities. Engaging with these communities allows investors to directly observe the challenges and desires of potential customers. By listening to their conversations, a potential for unique products or services can be identified.

While niches offer the benefit of less competition, a critical factor is ensuring that the market is large enough to sustain a business. Utilize market research tools and industry reports to assess the size of the niche and its projected growth trajectory. Targeting a niche with limited long-term potential can lead to a stagnant investment.

Advantages of Niche Investing

The primary benefit is the reduced level of competition. By focusing on a specific niche, investors can carve out their own space and avoid competing with established players in the broader industry. This allows for greater control over pricing, branding, and marketing strategies.

Niche markets foster a strong sense of community among consumers. Customers are often passionate about the niche and loyal to brands that cater to their specific needs. This loyalty translates into a more stable customer base and potentially higher customer lifetime value.

Finally, niche markets often allow for premium pricing due to the lack of readily available alternatives. Consumers within a niche are often willing to pay a higher price for a product or service that perfectly addresses their specific needs.

Considerations for Niche Investing

Niche markets, by nature, can be more susceptible to fluctuations. Changes in consumer preferences or disruptions within the broader industry can have a significant impact on a niche market. Diversification across multiple niches can mitigate this risk.

Exiting a niche investment can be challenging due to the smaller pool of potential buyers. Investors should carefully consider their long-term investment horizon before entering a niche market.

Reaching a specific target audience within a niche market requires tailored marketing strategies. Traditional marketing channels may not be as effective, and investors may need to explore digital marketing avenues or build relationships with industry influencers.

Niche markets offer a compelling proposition for investors seeking to navigate a less competitive landscape and potentially reap high returns. By employing a systematic approach to identify promising niches and carefully considering the associated advantages and challenges, investors can position themselves to uncover diamonds in the rough.

[6v-theblog]

Light Bush

2014

Chromogenic Print, 26 x 15in (ed. 15)

Amanda Acuri

[paperw0rmz]

This classic four panel meme was created 11 years ago today

Along with the start of the Skyrim meme which was six years ago today.

[skittlesking]

I heard you do requests & I was wondering if you could draw my nightmare or what he prefers "Night or Blake" just hanging out or talking with your nightmare or any of your abandoned dreams AU?

"he's from my horrorverse AU where he gets thrown to another Multiverse for centuries by his corrupted counterpart and has to survive lots of horror universes like Silent hill,Amnesia,dead Island,Granny,happy humble Burger farm,FNAF,etc while having amnesia himself"

Nightmare wondering when he'll quick getting screwed over by the multiverse. Fr tho, AD! NM is acurious fellow and would have so many questions about the worlds Blake's been to, about his life. Like he has a son? How does the group feel about that, if he even has a group in his multiverse? Nightmare would enjoy meeting any alternate version of himself (that wasn't evil or corrupted-)

[thatmysticaltuxedocat-rp]

💛🧡

What is your favorite feature on yourself?

I'm really not sure I don't consider these things. Can I hand this question over to @acurious-cat ?

What is your sexuality?

Guess

[visxionaries]

@fromspringandfire

noted by maester acuri in the year 144ac, following a decree issued by king cedric of house tyrell, first of his name:

the lands and keep of hollywell, situated half a day's ride from highgarden and within lands of house tyrell, are hereby decreed a transfer of complete ownership to laena of house oldflowers. the deeds of the lands, including all livestock, farms, and subjects, are hereby issued to laena of house oldflowers.

ooc: following the appointment of becoming the official mistress of the reach king, laena has been allocated lands and a keep of her own, in her name. she has not been legitimised, but by law, these lands belong to laena and laena alone. hollywell is within tyrell land's, half a day's ride from highgarden itself.

[gobboguy]

Chapter 70: Flight to Acury

The swamp was a scene of utter ruin, choked with the remnants of a brutal struggle against the undead. Shattered trees lay sprawled like broken bones, their roots clawing from the mud as though grasping for lost life. The water, once dark and rich with tangled weeds, was thickened by grime and ash, littered with the bodies of halflings who had died defending their land. Smoke drifted lazily above the swamp, where small fires crackled and charred what little greenery remained. Siha moved through the destruction with contempt, her fingers sparking with magical energy as she hurled fireballs at the few remaining zombies who staggered aimlessly.

With a huff of disgust, she called out, “Twig! Slave, bring me wine!” Her voice echoed over the eerie quiet that had settled. When no answer came, her brows furrowed in confusion. “Twig?” she called again, now irritation tinged with something unfamiliar—a faint edge of uncertainty. She paused, her voice strained, wondering why her once-pliant, pheromone-intoxicated thrall hadn’t come scurrying to her call.

Twig sprinted through the wild, barren fields of the Underkingdom, his heart pounding as he tried to silence the turmoil within him. Ever since he’d joined his twin in the south, an impossible transformation had taken place—their minds had fused, and he now carried the memories of both his time with the Orcs and the bitter servitude under Siha. Though her call still tugged faintly at him, the haze of addiction no longer bound him like chains. The scent of her pheromones, once overpowering, felt muted and distant, something he could resist if he focused.

Still, his instincts urged him to move quickly. Acury lay ahead, a distant hope where he could secure the safety of his family, as his father had begged of him. The contents of his pack weighed heavily on his shoulders: the shed skin of Rode, with its dark potential, and the Key of Creation, Heavy Light, its jewel dim yet throbbing with power. Baybreaker, Sudbad's stolen sword, was gripped tightly in his hand, its hilt cool and familiar. In this desolate realm, with shadows closing in and ancient threats lurking beneath every rock and root, the blade felt like his last connection to his lost comrades and his only means of protection. Twig breathed in deeply, hardening his resolve. He would keep running. He would make it to Acury. He had no choice.

Twig paused at the banks of a raging, frothy river, his eyes narrowing at the distant promise of an escape route—the dark stone mouth of one of the dungeons that led to the surface. It was so close. But the waters were furious, impossible to cross by strength alone. Twig took a deep breath, unsheathing Baybreaker, the mermaid-forged blade Sudbad had cherished. The sword shimmered like moonlight on water, its edge elegantly curved like a wave’s crest. Etched along the blade were intricate scales, and at the base, delicate, silvery fins adorned the crossguard, gleaming with an otherworldly beauty.

With a swift, confident slash, Twig brought the blade down into the river. The waters parted at once, peeling away like layers of silk, revealing a muddy path across the riverbed. Twig dashed forward, his boots squelching in the mud as he sprinted across. But then—just as he neared the opposite bank—a chilling howl rang out, echoing through the Underkingdom’s desolate caverns. He whipped around to see a dark, hulking figure on a rise in the distance, silhouetted by the glow of distant, pale fungi.

It was Hotep, Siha's relentless tracker. Half-man, half-dog, he stood snarling, saliva dripping from his bared fangs, his yellow eyes locked on Twig like a predator on prey. Twig’s heart pounded as Hotep charged, his muscular frame bounding down the slope with disturbing speed. Twig bolted toward the dungeon, pushing himself to the limits, but Hotep closed the gap with terrifying ease, his claws skimming the ground in deadly pursuit. Just as Hotep leaped, claws outstretched and jaws snapping, Twig twisted around, thrusting Baybreaker forward. The blade shimmered and surged into its watery form, fluid yet razor-sharp.

Hotep’s leap ended in a yelp of surprise as the blade sliced through him, the water enveloping his form in a deadly arc. With a final, wet thud, Hotep collapsed, his eyes glazed in shock as he crumpled at Twig's feet.

Twig staggered back, catching his breath and staring for a brief, heart-stopping moment at the defeated creature before him. He had to keep moving. He turned, sprinting toward the dungeon entrance, his mind racing. He would escape, reach the surface, and do what was necessary for his family, his people—no matter what.

[judithan-xing]

starborn illustrations 2024 vs 2014

[jonathanreedacuris]

The Importance of a Business Exit Strategy

In the lifecycle of a business, an exit strategy is not merely an endpoint but a significant component of strategic planning that helps ensure the sustainability and value maximization of the enterprise. This article explores the multifaceted benefits and importance of incorporating a well-defined exit strategy into business planning.

An exit strategy serves as a comprehensive plan for business owners to disengage from their company while achieving specific financial and personal objectives. Such strategies are varied, including but not limited to, selling the business, merging, passing it to family members, or management buyouts. Regardless of the method, the goal remains consistent: to facilitate a smooth transition and safeguard the company’s future and the owner's investment.

First and foremost, having an exit strategy provides the business owner with control over the future of the business. Planning an exit ensures that the business can continue to thrive under new ownership or management without being dependent on the original owner. This proactivity not only secures the legacy of the business but also enhances its attractiveness to prospective buyers or heirs, demonstrating that the business is well-prepared for the future and potentially increasing its market value.

Moreover, exit strategies are essential for financial and legal protection. They help business owners maximize the financial return from their investment in the business. By planning in advance, owners can optimize the timing of their exit to coincide with market conditions that favor higher business valuations. A planned exit also allows for the meticulous preparation of financial records and legal documents, which are crucial for a smooth due diligence process during the sale or transfer of the business. This preparation helps in minimizing risks associated with asset transfer, including legal liabilities and tax implications.

An often overlooked but critical aspect of exit planning is its role in business development. An exit strategy encourages long-term planning that can highlight a company’s strengths and weaknesses, fostering a strategy for continuous improvement. This not only aids in business growth but also in maintaining stability, which is a key concern for investors and financial partners.

Additionally, having an exit strategy in place can significantly aid in the negotiation process when selling the business. It prepares the owner to deal effectively with offers, boosting their ability to secure a deal that reflects the true value of the business. This preparation includes understanding the market, setting realistic prices, and anticipating potential buyer concerns, which collectively contribute to more favorable negotiation outcomes.

Lastly, from a personal perspective, a well-thought-out exit strategy provides the owner with peace of mind and financial security. Knowing that there is a plan in place for a future transition makes it easier to handle the emotional aspects of leaving a business that one has built and nurtured over years. It helps ensure that personal goals are met, whether they involve retirement, pursuing other interests, or facilitating financial stability for one’s family.

An exit strategy is not merely an endgame plan but a vital element of a business’s overall strategy that fosters continuity, maximizes value, and secures the owner's legacy. Business owners are encouraged to view exit planning as a critical component of their business development, rather than an afterthought, to reap the full benefits of their hard work and investment.

[konradnews]

Participation in the Understanding Risk Global Forum 2024 ｜ News & Media

summary Event Title: Understanding Risk Global Forum Date: June 16-21, 2024 Organized by: The World Bank/Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) Location: Acurier Himeji, Himeji City, Hyogo, Japan The World Bank’s biennial Understanding Risk Global Forum brings together a diverse group of disaster risk reduction professionals to share the latest initiatives on disaster risk.…

[becoming-not-became]

Rough

Spying upon something be it rocktrinket or person its value seldom shows at surface and only acuriously kind eye can ever seebeneath and wonder if this thing this very thing is a treasure or if itwhich is often just a veneerworthless except tothose who relish in cheap varnish

[thatmysticaltuxedocat-rp]

You good babe? Something happen?

@acurious-cat

Something very confusing yet hilarious

I simply cannot describe it

[rowsandrows-of-roses]

NAME: Dowager Lady Ines Isabela Madrigal Clayton FC: Muriel Villera AGE: 42 MAGIC STATUS: Giifted -- chlorokinesis (out) OCCUPATION: Lady of Larchwood CURRENT LOCATION: Oxfordshire, England RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Widow to the late Baron William Clayton CHILDREN: Octavia Julieta Madrigal Clayton, Jocasta Valeria Madrigal Clayton, Beatrice Ximena Madrigal Clayton

BIOGRAPHY:

Isabela knew what she was getting into with her marriage to Clayton. Looking back on it now, after several years, she knows this was always the case, even if at the time she tried to convince herself that it was love.

It was comfort she had wanted. She knew that Clayton didn't love her. That he probably wouldn't even be faithful. But that didn't matter. What mattered was making sure Mirabel could finish her degree and get her therapy license. It mattered that Abuela Alma stayed comfortable for all her days. That her parents were happy and healthy and never had to worry.

They did their duty. Three beautiful daughters later, Isabela didn't have the heart for any more. Clayton wasn't interested enough in the barony or her by then anyway.

Of course, to the world, they were a lovely couple. They held each other's hands at events, smiled, spoke warmly. They never fought. They hardly saw each other except for when required. Children's recitals, charity galas, and the like. Until Clayton stopped even showing up for those.

It was one thing for her to turn a blind eye to the long hunting trips and women's perfume that wafted through the castle. It was another for him to embarrass her in front of everyone.

That was when Isabela finally grew bitter and with it: her magic. Her beautiful flowers wilted and turned thorny on their stems. Anything she grew was crooked, half-starved looking. It was no longer beautiful and she rarely created anything at all. Except for a lovely belladonna plant that she kept in her windowsill.

It's very tragic, what happened to her husband, but Isabela hasn't had time to grieve. She's currently battling for Larchwood, her eldest daughter's birthright, before the last two decades of her own life are snatched away from her and she is left with nothing...

see below the cut for a peak at Isabela's youngest daughter's bio!

NAME: Miss Beatrice Ximena Madrigal Clayton FC: Amanda Acuri AGE: 15 MAGIC STATUS: Gifted -- invisibility (out) OCCUPATION: Being a rich girl CURRENT LOCATION: Oxfordshire, England RELATIONSHIP STATUS: N/A SIBLINGS: Octavia Julieta Madrigal Clayton, Jocasta Valeria Madrigal Clayton

BIOGRAPHY:

Ximena loves her Spanish name and her big, empty English castle. She likes to play hide and seek and can disappear for hours, literally. Which is just how she likes it.

Her older sisters are beautiful and ruthless. Ximena is known as the sweet one. Maybe that is why it is so easy to gather secrets like plucking flowers from the garden. She knows one about everyone in her family and she isn't afraid to share when the moment strikes...

[wiithstars]

bold all that apply to your muse , memories of my childhood edition…

tw, contains mentions of abuse / neglect / death / trauma

scraped knees,  silent tears in a locked room,  slamming doors,  pervasive loneliness,  a dog barking,  rain on a metal roof,  flinching at movement,  the creak of an old house,  forced laughter,  wandering in the dark woods,  wondering how you made it through,  sudden loss,  trying to make sense of the noise, hiding what you love to protect it,  trying to explain but your words falter,  invaded privacy,  confusion at the pain,  running barefoot in the grass,  wondering what you did wrong and coming up with nothing,  realizing you aren’t a priority,   grass stains on white clothing,  trying to earn love you will never have,  being threatened over the smallest mistake,  secrets you are warned not to share,  the feeling of never being good enough,  the hope things might someday get better,  grief that aches in your bones, childish dares and pranks, the sense that your body isn’t yours,  shame and guilt that aren’t yours to carry,  sledding down a frozen hill,  absentmindedly following snakes through the grass,  punching a tree until your knuckles bleed, tears over every dead creature you find,  searching out small places you can hide... just in case,  climbing the tallest tree so they can’t touch you,  the feeling of something tainted under your skin,  a curious child told to stop asking,  floral dresses,  body tensing at approaching footsteps,  anger with nowhere to go,  brief escapes from the chaos,  the purr of a contented cat,  taking the blame to keep the peace,  being told you’re too sensitive,  the creaking springs of a trampoline on a sunny day