#ISL team strengthening

[townpostin]

Stephen Eze Joins Jamshedpur FC, Boosts Defence for ISL Season

Nigerian defender arrives at Flatlets, strengthening Men of Steel’s squad Jamshedpur FC’s defensive lineup receives a significant boost with the arrival of Stephen Eze, enhancing their prospects for the upcoming ISL season. JAMSHEDPUR – Jamshedpur FC welcomes Nigerian defender Stephen Eze to their squad, bolstering their defensive capabilities ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League season. The…

[mysteriesmuse]

A Lifetime Ahead

When Katsuki graduated UA University it would have almost come as a shock to everyone who knew him that he had a college (and long-time) sweetheart. If it hadn’t been for that fact that you and Katsuki had known each other for most of a lifetime. The newly certified ProHero Dynamight aka Bakugou Katsuki known for dashing good looks, pure explosive power, and a foul-mouth now officially recognized by Japanese Hero Comission stood on that stage for graduation with his best suit and with his best girl sitting in the isles nestled right between her family, and his. All cheering, clapping, and waving frantically as the confetti poured down from the grand stands of UA University. His parents whom spend the entire first meeting with you giving the most ludicrously embarrassing tour of the family home and all of his achievements . . . And unfortunately for him the very first picture that hung on the way in the door was his most recent yearbook photo. The one from the previous year showcasing his bright young freshmen face complete with a set of red colored braces. And just down the hallway was the trophy shelf with every single participation and competition sport award that he’d won since the ripe age of 3. Katsuki remembers the sheer mortification striking him like a swift baseball to the crotch that Izuku used to accidentally pitch as he stood in that hallway. Only for his parents to whisk you away into the living room, the panicked throbbing of his heart in his clenched throat as his parents immediately fetched old yearbooks and family photos. Fawning and doting over him as if he weren’t standing in his own damn living room with his own damn girlfriend that was a year older than him. Katsuki is still impressed by the way you managed to pull you both out of his house and back out onto the sidewalk. All the while keeping his sweaty, sweaty hands shoved deep inside his varsity jacket as he sulked the rest of the walk to the station. His emotionally constipated self awkwardly waving you goodbye, as he did every time. Only to see you sent him a text with a goofy picture of your younger self in what you described as a “horribly messy” costume from your kindergarten school play. Katsuki remembered pressing his phone to against his chest as he lay on his back and stared at the ceiling and all he could think was he better not screw this up. Katsuki thought that over again and again when you’d finally invited him over as a regular guest for movie night at your house a year later. He loved the drive out to your country home. The afternoons you spent sprawled out on the porch in the sunshine just laughing as the two of you completed your homework before dinner and the movie. The way you’d purposely sit between him and your dad to ease any of the boyfriend/versus/father tension. Although, Katsuki being a star player on the sports teams as well as an aspiring hero made him somewhat larger and always left you accidentally sliding against his side with the way the couch cushion dipped. Which always left him sitting up as straight as a rod and with his clammy hands clasped together in the pocket of his hoodie as your dad eyed him throughout the film. Every night you’d still habitually pass out on your father’s shoulder -like the daddy’s daughter you are- by the end of the movie. Katsuki saying goodbye to your folks as your father carried you up the stairs to your bed. And Katsuki definitely remembers the first time your father nodded at him and said, “Go ahead, it’s your turn now.” Nodding up the stairs as he waited for Katsuki to take you up to your room - he’d never felt so nervous. He was sweating worse than that time his Hero Coach decided to stick him in a sauna for quirk strengthening. And yet once he’s taken you up in his arms and dangerously decided not to leave a chaste kiss on your forehead. He found your father nodding approvingly from the base of the stairwell. Everytime since after and to-this-day Katsuki has taken up the job of taking you up to your room when you’ve fallen asleep.

And that did not just extend to the couch because Katsuki carried you in from his car after your prom night. You’d brilliantly shoved on his coat jacket and a pair of crocs that’d you’d stashed into his car. And he remembers watching the way you absolutely conked out, completely relaxed in his embrace and the way your mother chuckled when she’d opened the door and seen him holding you all limp-noodle style.

You’d been so delighted it wasn’t canceled last minute due to extenuating circumstances (lol yes I’m a COVID prom girlie) and had dragged him along to go prom dress shopping with all your senior girl friends. And he remembers your friends crowing in amazement and watching you beam proudly as he followed you around the store like a dutiful lovesick puppy. The way a good boyfriend is supposed to do for his girl sometimes and he did just as well giving in to your every request at your prom. And he proudly thinks back on the way you’d attended his senior prom the next year. Everyone thinking it was wild that Katsuki Bakugou had a college girlfriend and that he was even attending at all. However, the two of you did ditch out on that one early and headed out to grab hamburgers and milkshakes bc that’s what Katsuki wanted to do with his prom. Just as you wanted to stay almost until the very end and get your Cinderella moment picture. Katsuki wanted the simple/typical rom-com drama of ditching it to watch the sunset with a beautiful lady and a greasy meal.

And Katsuki remembers his highschool years where you’d insist on coming to just about every sports game he had. Always managing to sneak in a salad or two only to be found caught with a corndog, crackerjacks, or plate of dripping nachos on your shiny fingers during a break. Always getting him teased down on the floor by his mates because you’d be fully decked out in one of his jersey’s and would be cheering for him louder than the rest, but eventually his teammates cut it out. Mostly bc Katsuki used to snarl at them and say, “Don’t be laughing at me because my girl loves me that much. It’s rude.” Which quickly shut them all up because who else had a partner that showed so much interest and investment when they came out to play? That’s right none of them. And Katsuki remembers the annoying squeals and “ooooo’s” n’ “awww’s” that your college mates used to give whenever he’d take some time to come over and visit your university. The entire dormitory hallway like moths to a flame as the girls stared at him walking by. And you, always trying to be so easy-going when he showed up, your shoulders falling as you squeezed him as tight as you could. The rest of the afternoon always spent on a little campus or town tour. He always bringing a weeks worth of bentos over to your place because you’d called and complained about the dinning hall food so much. And he remembers you coming out to his second year sports festival. Just teeming with excitement because you’d sadly missed the last one having to watch the recording on tv with your parents when you got back from your school-trip. He remembers coming up into the stands during the break just to find you wearing a tank-top with his old jersey thrown over it, still way too large. Practically swallowing you as you beamed holding up two plates of takoyaki and chatting with the only college friend of his you knew, Izuku. The green bean happily chatting your ear off as he asked you about school and some romantic advice for himself about Round Cheeks. And by the end of the festival, another win under his name he watched you cheering wildly underneath the sprawl of confetti as he stood proudly receiving the first place metal.

And now here he was. Watching you dressed up in your finest dress and makeup passing out tissues to the rest of the Bakugou clan, which were all massive softies with their heart on their sleeves just like his dad. And Bakugou can’t help, but tear up too. And as he steps towards the mic. The box in his pocket growing heavier by the second he grips the side of the podium and begins his Valedictorian speech. (He’s not even sure colleges are supposed to do that) But never-the-less he’s made it through as the top of his class. Near death experiences be damned because he’s made it, to graduation, to ask you to marry him. Just the way you two had agreed, or not really, because you’d expressed that you wanted to wait until after you both had graduated and technically that would be about another serveral minutes worth of speeches away. He’s watching as your parents and two families start crying harder in the front row just behind the Universities staff and faculty. And he remembers one last thing. . . He remembers how easy it was to ask for your hand. How estatic your mother and father were. He remembers asking his old man how to do it. He remembers the first time he met your grandfather . . .

A retired prohero at a Thanksgiving many years ago. Watching him, small and retired as he was, pick you up as you hugged him. He remembers gulping with the way he watched the young hero from over your shoulder, thinking this may be his greatest obstacle yet. Only for him to share his own stories with him late at night. Leaving Katsuki to wonder how he managed to survive and start a family as a hero. And for your grandfather to see the look flash across his face, “I know my granddaughter loves you, but I can see now how you love her. Young Bakugou if you want to be with her, you should, even as a pro. You gotta continue saving her from life, not criminals or villains, just life. And you do that by not getting yourself killed! But also by loving her. That’s the way to conquer the villains of life, you hear me?” and Katsuki nods, swearing to care for you just the same as he is now if not better. Your grandfather then beckoning him into his study bc there’s no greater teacher than experience and this young man is gonna need some help balancing out the life of a hero and the life of a husband. And Katsuki can see your grandfather sitting on the end of the row. Giving him a huge thumbs up as Izuku and Toshinori both fidget from excitement right behind him. Ready to see their friend start another chapter of his life with you. Together as you’ve always been.

[tea-moon-ster]

O'Knutzy Week day 3

character credits to @lumosinlove, prompts and hosting credits to @oknutzyweek2023 .

Prompts: Cooking Mishaps; Dance; Smiles; Cookouts.

“What if we just leave them here?”

“Finn, no.”

“What if we leave me here?”

“Finn. Go put on your socks.”

A long, suffering sigh.

Finn detached himself from the wake of the muffins on the counter and disappeared into their bedroom. Leo stared at the them a moment longer.

He appreciated the effort. He sure did. When he’d started taking out the ingredients for the muffins, Finn had immediately jumped to help. The fact that he’d compromised the whole recipe was only marginal to Leo. Just like the wobbly form of his poor, poor pumpkin muffins.

They could almost pass as cute. Almost.

They’d tasted one together before leaving, just like his Mama always did. And now Finn didn’t want to leave the house with them.

Leo knew deep in his heart that there was something fundamentally wrong with those muffins. He didn’t think Finn could mess up that much, honestly, but there they stood. But they were also the muffins for team dinner, and Finn had helped, how cute was that? Leo wouldn’t say a thing about them.

He hoped the team wouldn’t notice and pester him too much.

•••

The Dumais’ house was welcoming and vibrating with life as always. Logan would always look back with affection at his bed in the basement, the nights on crumpled couches for movie night and constantly having four kids to play with. But he sure wouldn’t complain about his current situation. No sir, he though, Leo’s hand pressing against his lower back as they entered the house.

They were met by cheers, various yells of “Cubs!”, and a few sloppy kisses on the cheek. The off-season hadn’t been long. The team had met under every pretext, from basketball nights to vacations together. Falling back into routine, together, felt good, and right.

The kitchen was filled with pots and bowls coming from every family of the team. Everybody brought something, that was the only rule for team dinners. Leo had, for once, given up his salty dishes position, sticking to desserts with Lily, Chris and Evgeni.

As soon as Leo placed the muffins on the kitchen isle, Finn disappeared, muttering something about setting the table. Leo couldn’t blame him.The muffins were immediately under attack by a crowd of hungry hockey players and kids. Sirius happily took a bite, only to start chewing less and less confidently after a few times.

“Leo…what happened to your muffins?”

“Finn happened!” Logan called.

Leo rolled his eyes. “Finn tried to help but put baking soda instead of baking powder. And…some cheese fell in. I…yeah.”

“It’s not…bad,” Remus tried, studying his half-bitten muffin with indecision.

“Y’all can hide them,” Leo sighed. “Just don’t let Harzy see.”

Celeste put a hand on his shoulder. “I’ll try to mask the taste with chocolate frosting.”

“Merci, Celeste.”

The backyard, their designated dinner place, was impeccable. A long, long table ran under a series of string lights, filled with baskets of bread and unmatched chairs. People were moving around to set the table, turn on the barbecue and catch up after summer. Katie was carefully putting vases of flowers from the garden in the already crumpled place in between the plates. Leo had missed all this. The moments outside of the rink that strengthened the bond in their team.

Somebody put music thought the speakers Pascal was so proud of installing on his own, and the smell of the barbecue began to fill the air. Dumo had announced it would be him and his garçons to take care of the grill that night. It was heart warming to see him explaining to Sirius, Logan and Cole how everything worked. But it was even cuter to see three grown hockey players following his every move with big eyes, nodding quickly and asking questions.

Soon, the long table in the garden was soon filled with chatter, laughter and hands passing plates and bowls. Leo tried to distract Finn from all the teasing about the muffins, and Logan smiled proudly every time they took a bite of the meat and vegetables grilled by him. He seemed to remember every single piece.

After dinner, the music in the yard turned slower and softer. Pascal was the first to pull Celeste in the middle of the cleared grass, making her laugh and spin. The others were quick to follow. A grinning Thomas, letting Noelle lead. James and Lily, smiling and chatting softly. Remus was melting against Sirius in a gentle rocking back and forth.

It was the kind of hopeless romantic moment that would have had Finn standing up in the bat of an eye, ready to dance with his boys under the gentle eye that was the moon. And he was. As soon as the sweet notes of a love song filled the yard, he was smiling and tilting his head at Leo. But the blond simply smiled back and pointed at something behind Finn’s back. Finn turned, perplexed, only for his eyes to widen in surprise.

Logan rolled his eyes around a smile too big. He stood straight and composed, an arm behind his back and the other still in the air, in front of a shocked Finn. He kept it up and visible, not faltering in the long moment Finn only stared at him. But it was alright. He’d wait eras for Finn.

“Mon rouge,” he smiled, feeling heat travel up to his cheeks. A wonderful kind of exposure and wait filled the space between them. The kind of adrenaline of asking out on a first date, or a school dance. He felt at the edge of a cliff, at the mercy of wind and waves. But it would be alright, because he was looking at Finn. And Finn had always been his lighthouse. “Shall we?”  

Finn’s smile always lighted his nights.

Their eyes never left each other as Finn took his hand and stood up, letting Logan bring them to the middle of the improvised dance floor.

Finn was an elegant, old-fashioned boy at heart. He knew how to mix them cocktails and read poetry with the right stops and rhythms. And of course, he knew how to lead Logan in a slow dance. He eased a hand on his waist, gently moving them in well-practiced steps. The other hand was clasped to his, and his head tilted to the side. But Logan could see his eyes, sparkling with happiness. A happiness that, he knew, would turn into a vacant, distant stare for just a moment during their dance. A brief but inevitable thought of the past. And then Finn would return to him, dopey smile and wrinkles at the corner of his eyes. The past was something they could talk about anytime, now. And they’d understood and forgiven each other. It had all turned out in the end. But Logan also understood that in a little corner of Finn’s wonderful mind, there were scars that wouldn’t fade.

Logan was doing best to be visible lately. Taking their hands during their walks, choosing fancy, romantic restaurants for dinner instead of a nameless pub, where the world would only see them as friends. Restaurants where he could hold their hands on the table and feed them bits of his dessert. Finn was loving it as much as Leo did. Both Finn and Leo presumed that, together with the love, there was an effort to compensate for the wait, the lack of before. Both had reassured him multiple times that there was no need, no need at all, because they’d been happy before and they were happy now. But Logan was on a self imposed mission of romanticism, and Finn wouldn’t be the one to stop him.

Logan was quick to fall into Finn’s flow. It was after a twirl that he nudged their noses together. “You know, I used to be so scared of people seeing and watching,” he said. “But now…the only thing I want is to show you and Leo all over the place.” Finn left a gentle kiss on his lips before letting him continiue. “I’m still nervous around people, I guess that’s just who I am. But here…I know that these people want to see us happy, and together. I love being that with you.”

Finn had to rest his cheek against Logan’s temple after a deeper kiss. He looked around. The string lights hanged around the garden shined in soft lines that framed the night sky. Leo was looking at them and smiling even more brightly. He’d surely taken a few pictures of them. He’d show them lately that night, while getting ready for bed, like he always did. Logan shifted, maybe so he could get a snoop of Leo, too -Finn wouldn’t blame him.

Around them, the atmosphere sweetened the edges of people. James and Lily went back to their seats. Sergei made his wife laugh. Kasey and Natalie were dancing in a quiet corner, a phone balanced on a glass pointed at them. A video, Finn realized. For Alex.

Logan shifted a little, pressing a hand into his lower back. “Hey,” he whispered, without stopping the gentle rocking. “I want this song at our wedding.”

Finn stopped.

“What?” he breathed faintly.

Logan just shrugged, without letting the hand on Finn’s back falter. He smiled, a devastating half-smile that was melted gold in the low, warm light of the garden. Unaware of the turmoil those words had caused in Finn. “Ouais,” he nodded. “I like this song.”

“Logan.”

He heard Finn’s breathing breaking into smaller, quicker fits. Logan frowned, but what he feared would be the start of tears was followed by Finn’s laughter. Low in his chest, vibrating against the hand steady in between his shoulder blades. Two hands were grasping Logan’s shoulder and shaking him before he knew.

“Logan. You can’t just say that to me.”

“Non?”

“Nom.” Finn passed a thumb on his cheek, eyes wide and a little glossy. “You can’t.”

“Dommage.” Logan kissed him. “Because I will.”

They let the next song pass in a gentle hug. Finn’s arms circling Logan’s neck, temple drawn together. Logan could feel Finn breathing against his neck. He never wanted to move.

“Hey. We should do it more often,” Finn whispered, as if afraid to disturb their little bubble of bliss. Logan nodded. They swung around the grass some more, and then decided that they needed Leo to dance.

They didn’t find him at his seat, but he came back a moment later with a beer. He turned to look around, a hand on his hip.

“Y’all, we need a yard. I want to host these cookouts.”

Logan laughed, nodding. Finn took Leo’s hand, pulling him close.

“Sure, baby. We’ll get you a big yard. Come here.” Finn guided him on his lap, lacing his arms around the goalie’s waist. He sniffed a little. “All the yards you want.”

“Finn, were you crying?”

A knowing smile from Logan made his frown disappear. “I told him I wanted to dance the song from before at our wedding.”

Leo’s expression softened. He cupped Finn’s face with his hands, leaving a soft kiss on his temple. “Oh, honey. Yeah, that’ll do it.”

For a while, they just watched the rest of the team dance and talk. “Yeah,” Leo repeated after a while. “I want a yard. A big yard. Like my parents’.”

“Oh, that’s a really big yard,” Logan said. Leo raised an eyebrow.

“You don’t like my parents’ yard?”

“No, I’m just saying. That’s a lot of space. It’s not a yard that you find in the city. Rimouski’s yard is optimal.”

“That’s not as big.”

“Hey, it’s not big, but there’s plenty of space to have fun. Size isn’t everything. It depends on how you use it.”

“Please stop making erotic references while we talk about our future yard.”

“What do you want in our big, big yard, Peanut Butter Better Butty Baby?” Finn song singed.

Leo tilted his head. The way his eyes shined with the string lights did all sort of things to Logan. “I want a place for the barbecue. A big patio so we can read outside when it rains and a garden to grow our own veggies. And, you know…place for some sort of playground, one day?”

Logan’s eyebrows shot up. Finn groaned, hiding his blushing cheeks into Leo’s shoulder. “Did you two decide if was Let’s make Finn cry night? Was this premeditated? You should be thankful I’m not wearing any mascara.”

“Finn, you don’t own a mascara.”

“And thank God for that. I’d be a mess by now.”

 Logan sighed, leaning in for a kiss. “You’re so weird. Come here.”

•••

The yard gradually turned less and less crowded as people began to call it a night. There were pats on the back and, finally, a lot of “see you on Monday”’s. But three chairs hadn’t moved in almost an hour, and three pairs of eyes were staring at the night sky. Three pairs of hand were busy holding each other, or stroking gently a leg here or a strand of curls there. Low laughter came from three sleepy smiles.

“…And we also need a pool,” Logan yawned. They’d been talking about sweet nothings all night, but the mental image of that yard, one day, big and filled with love, and people, little people he hoped, hadn’t left him all night. “Because I like swimming and I like seeing you two in swimsuits.”

He didn’t add that he’d build a big slide so their kids could have fun in said pool.

Leo nodded, suppressing a yawn of his own. “I rectify: we need an outdoor pool for the fun, and an indoor pool because I like you two even more without swimsuits on.”

“Oh, ouais. I like that. Let’s just get pools.”

“Yeah,” Finn nodded against Logan’s shoulder, a hand passing through Leo’s hair. “I’ll get you two all the yards and the pools you want.”

Leo sat starigher to cup th eback of Finn’s neck. Soft lips met his. “I know, sweetheart.” And Leo knew. Finn always had that sparkle in his eyes, that pressing hand against his back. That veneration that made him remember about a starless balcony, and the promise to light up Leo’s nights in every way he could.

And he had.

He brought Finn’s hand up to place a gentle kiss on it. “Harz.”

“Mh.”

“We’ll get you everything you want, too, baby. Everything.”

Finn was aware of his inability to accept words and acts of kindness in a normal way. He felt a need to earn them, otherwise the guilt would take over and he had to scroll them off. It took a lot for Finn to believe he deserved good things. But he was finally feeling like he could let go a little. The ropes they used to build their relationship would not get loose if he relaxed into Leo and Logan as he so ardently wished them to do with him.

They’d build the good things together.

[the-faramir]

Niji-iro Midori: The Reluctant Ringmaster

Chapter 1: We Are On a Diplomatic Mission to Absalom

Midori was born in the Minkai Empire into the Niji-iro family, a large clan of kitsune with diverse fur patterns. Chairo, Haiiro, Kuro, and Shiro were her brothers; and Akane, Kiiro, Mizuiro, Murasaki, Orenji, and Pinku were her sisters. Her parents, Tetsu and Sakura, were diplomats, so the family spent most of their lives traveling to far-off lands on business trips.

One such trip was a diplomatic mission to Absalom, the City at the Center of the World, the Jewel of the Inner Sea. The Minkai Empire was in negotiations with Lord Gyr of House Gixx and his Grand Council to smooth over some unpleasant business regarding trade routes and supply ships going missing.

Unfortunately, the unpleasant business was not as straightforward as it seemed on the surface. The Aspis Consortium, the organized crime syndicate masquerading as a legitimate trade empire, was responsible for the piracy. But try as they might, no party could prove to the authorities that those gangsters were guilty.

Until now.

Tetsu and Sakura had brought damning evidence of the Consortium's hand in the matter and were prepared to present their proof to the Grand Council the next day. The diplomats traveled with a small but highly skilled security contingent of swordsmen, shinobi, and sorcerors to protect them against any enemy. Arriving at the Minkan embassy in the Ivy District of Absalom with the Niji-iros, the team cast protective wards around the family's chambers, sent out patrols to keep an eye on the streets, and posted guards at both entrances.

Tetsu and Sakura felt safe. Their children, however, were clearly uncomfortable with all of the hustle and bustle. Their parents put them in windowless living quarters in the basement to help them feel safer and more secure.

That night, Pinku, the youngest daughter, refused to go to sleep. She kept telling her mother that it wasn't safe at the embassy. "The snakes! They're coming to hurt you and Papa! They're gonna burn down the building! They're coming to take me and my brothers and sisters from you!"

But Sakura knew that Pinku had been telling crazy stories about xulgath cults and extinction curses since the family had arrived on the Starstone Isle, so she calmed Pinku down as best as she could and put her to bed.

All of the children eventually slept soundly except for Midori, who got up just before midnight to get a drink of water from the kitchen.

The Aspis Consortium was no stranger to military assassinations. Facing a threat that could potentially dissolve the Consortium at the hands of various world governments, the Patrons would spare no expense to keep the proof of their culpability unexposed. They had arranged specialized strike teams to eliminate the threat to their collective reputation.

Aspis assassins had been tracking the shinobi since they arrived at the embassy. Once the shinobi left on patrol after dark, the Aspis assassins harnessed their superior knowledge of the city streets to hunt down and kill them by quarter to midnight, leaving the Niji-iros none the wiser.

With the patrols eliminated, the other strike teams were free to emerge.

Shadowy figures emerged onto four high rooftops of buildings within sight of the embassy. The four groups of four began their preparations. The druid of each group, part of a sniper duo with his or her corresponding elven eldritch archer, shifted form into a bat and flew toward the embassy. Each bat peered through the windows of the top floor to find the sorcerors tasked with casting and replenishing the defensive wards on the living quarters and entrances below. One by one, the spotters communicated over their telepathic links to their archer counterparts, "target acquired." Meanwhile, the accompanying wizard and priest strengthened each archer with multiple blessings and magical enhancements. The archers nocked their faintly glowing arrows to their rune-studded bows and took careful aim.

The clock tower in the square near the embassy struck 12:00.

The archers' bowstrings twanged faintly in unison. The seeker arrows flew in unnaturally straight lines to the corners of the embassy, turning abruptly at right angles to zig-zag through windows and hallways, navigating the few turns needed to find their marks. The sorcerors died instantly, their hearts pierced by the magical flying shafts. "Target eliminated," the spotters reported to the archers.

12:01.

Aspis wizards emerged from the shadows in the streets surrounding the embassy. Together as one, they cast their magic around the building to dispel the remaining protection wards and any other surprises that the Minkan sorcerors could have left behind.

12:02.

From a nearby toy shop, dolls and stuffed animals jerked into motion as if they were alive; these poppets streamed out of the shop's milk door, started ticking like clocks counting down the time, split into two groups, and scampered toward the groups of wizards near each entrance to the embassy. One wizard in each group started casting a spell, then leaned down and touched the lead poppet of her group, engulfing each group of quietly ticking poppets into complete silence.

12:03.

Another wizard in each group moved away from the poppets and toward the entry doors, casting a spell. A touch to each door broke its locking spell and flung open its physical lock. The wizards ran back to the shadows.

12:04.

The silenced poppets rushed the unlocked entry doors on either side of the embassy and burst through, completely bewildering the guards waiting inside as they could hear nothing. The guards could not react other than screaming noiselessly as the poppets swarmed them, latching on to limbs and heads, then silently exploding as their internal timers expired.

12:05.

A team of heavily muscled and lightly armored brutes in black cloaks gathered by the back entrance to the embassy with two wizards who provided them with silence spells as well. Using hand signals, the lead brute guided the team inside and down the stairs into the basement, leaving the wizards outside.

The team slammed soundlessly through the door of the living quarters where the Niji-iro children were sleeping peacefully and undisturbed, thanks to the absence of noise. They only woke up as they were torn from their beds, screaming without sound. Pinku looked at her siblings and mouthed, "I told you so!" Kuro and Shiro, having gone to bed with their bokkens in their hands for just such a contingency as this, attempted to bash in the skulls of their would-be captors. However, their attacks only made the brutes laugh soundlessly, causing the children to panic even more. The brutes tied up the children's little mouths and limbs and stuffed the ten of them into burlap sacks. Then the team proceeded to ransack the room to ensure that no children had been left behind. Finding no others, the team left the building quietly, where the wizards turned the group invisible to cover their retreat. The Niji-iro children would make fine hostages to use as leverage against the Niji-iro clan to ensure that no more evidence against the Aspis Consortium would find its way to Absalom.

12:10.

A final group of eight wizards moved to the front of the embassy, casting their spells. The eight fireballs that pounded into the third floor charred every person on that level, along with all of the damning paper documents, to ash. Teetering precariously from the fiery explosion, the embassy collapsed into a heap of burnt wood and rubble.

12:11.

The Aspis Consortium teams vacated the area.

A small voice escaped from the partially collapsed kitchen in the basement of the embassy: "Help!"

There was nobody around to hear.

The voice fell silent.

Chapter 2: The Circus Arrives Without Warning

Chapter 3: Hi-Diddle-De-Dee, a Carny's Life for Me

Chapter 4: Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys

Chapter 5: One Does Not Simply Walk Into Abberton

Chapter 6: The Circus of Wayward Wonders

[pkmn-spira]

Celestial Document: SYM-09

SYM-09

Description: SYM-09 is a top secret SYM Asset, whose true identity is knowable only to Team Celestial's Leader, and Admin Hephaestus. As such, it is held in a separate, isolated enclosure located in Celestial HQ. However, once the Celestum Prismata Stratos Ship's construction is complete, it will be promptly relocated there.

Additional Details

SYM-09 is the result of ████████████ undergoing a paradoxical self-symbiosis. This resulted to its full potential having been realized, something that has not been seen again ever since its first arrival in Ancient Spira, as well as during the time Ancient Spira was at war with the Jinn King's nation. Though compared to how it was back then, SYM-09 now has a more acute, refined control over this state, all thanks to Admin Hephaestus' hard work and tests.

Furthermore, it is observed that SYM-09 behaves far more differently on this state, as well, as it no longer needs to assume its other forms to adapt to external stimuli. In fact, it now gains all of the boons that its offensive, defensive, and agile forms grant it, all at once without assuming said forms.

Additionally, it is also observed that its bond with Team Celestial's Leader, Zeus, was further strengthened after it had fully realized its potential. Whether this would be of further significance than it already is at this point is still under observation.

Observation

-SYM-09

It is to note that due to its full potential having been realized, SYM-09's eldritch pressure has reached overwhelming levels. Ordinary people would not only feel overwhelmed, but would also experience either hopelessness, reverence, or terror upon being within an approximate of twenty meters in radius around SYM-09.

The only ones that can outright resist such tremendous pressure from SYM-09 is Lord Zeus, as well as Team Celestial's Admins, the latter via meteorite fragments integrated unto their accessories, which were taken from both Anomalous Crater of Cryptid Isle and Meteoric Crash Site, as it would seem that the meteorite fragments taken from both areas are able to counteract such overwhelming presence, but only at some capacity.

However, it is observed that Lord Zeus is unbothered by such overbearing presence at all. This is due to the fact that he is bonded to SYM-09 in a similar fashion to the Starlink Phenomenon.

There is also one conjecture in which that individuals who were touched/chosen by other Legendary Pokémon would also be able to resist such overwhelming presence. The same would also, in conjecture apply to Fallers, as well, under the reason that such individuals were already touched by the cosmic weirdness, and thus gaining the unyielding attention of the eldritch beings that are known as Ultra Beasts.

Environmental Changes

Upon running certain tests on Team Celestial's simulation facility within its HQ, it is to note that if allowed to run free, SYM-09's mere presence alone would be able to slowly, and surely change the 'texture' of the earth. Through its virulent DNA, SYM-09 would leak out an "alien system" that would not only rewrite physical laws, but also terraform the area around it into something truly eldritch and not of this world. In a way, this "alien system" infects the land itself, turning it into something completely alien to this planet.

The environment that has been simulated was described to be as beautiful, marvelous even. However, it is also equally horrendous and disturbing. Something that is truly incomprehensible to humans.

It is unknown however, if such an alien environment would affect any Pokémon in some way, but there is a conjecture that such an environment would be able to significantly empower any Pokémon that came from the cosmos.

Lord Zeus believes that said environment would also significantly empower a human "touched by the stars", allowing them to transcend in a higher level of existence. Though such a belief is taken as a strong conjecture without any further proof or basis. Admin Hephaestus theorizes that such... belief is one of the side effects of being bonded to SYM-09, aggravated further upon the realization of its full potential.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Supratim Das for Mumbai City FC (PC: Supratim Das Insta) Before the current Indian Super League (ISL) season, Mumbai City FC signed 19-year-old midfielder Supratim Das from Reliance Foundation Young Champs on a three-year deal. A pivotal player for the Young Champs, Supratim helped them clinch the Sub-Junior I-League title in 2018-19 and secure a runner-up finish in the MFA Super Division League in 2022-23. His development also included exposure trips with RFYC to Spain (2017-2019) and Japan (2024) Although his opportunities with Mumbai City FC have been limited so far, Supratim shared his journey in an exclusive chat with RevSportz. He talked about his experiences, what he has learned, coach Petr Kratky, making his debut in front of Mumbai fans, favourite players, and Kolkata giants, among other topics. Excerpts: Q: How has been the experience so far to play for Mumbai City, limited but the experience of training regularly with top players, how is it? A: It is like dream come true for me. Any 19-year-old player would have only dreamt like this. Having training sessions and sharing the same pitch with experienced players like Jon Toral, Brandon Fernandes is a big experience that I am getting. I always try to learn and enjoy the game as much as possible from them. It has been great so far.   Q: How has the transition been from RFYC to a senior team in ISL and how the professional methods at RFYC academy helped make the transition smooth? A: The academy has played a huge role so far. I came to Mumbai when I was 11-year-old. I was too little to know anything, did not know how to speak Hindi and English, coming from a middle-class family. Then, here, they took care, got my schooling, training and all facilities under good quality foreign coaches and discipline also. I was for eight years at the academy. So, it helped me strengthen my base, both football-wise and as a human being also. But when you talk about transition, obviously difference is there between an academy and a huge professional club like Mumbai City. However, football-wise, principles are quite similar and that has helped me get settled quickly. It has also helped me focus in more details and in strengthening my technical and tactical abilities. Honestly, there are many things I’m yet to learn but the academy has definitely helped in developing a strong base for me.   For the Latest Sports News: Click Here Supratim Das during his ISL debut vs Odisha FC (PC: Supratim Das Insta) Q: Can you elaborate on the experience of playing in Spain and Japan? A: These opportunities are very important for young and grassroot-level players. I went to Spain four times and Japan once. There is a huge difference in the Indian and foreign culture. When I played against big clubs like Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, I got to know about their facilities, and how they train. They start from a very young age and that concept is yet to come in India. Our academy has already started to follow that concept by strengthening basics from a young age. If you see the European Leagues like La Liga and the Premier League, there are so many young players. Even if you do not reach that level despite having potential, these learnings should help you here.   Q: Words on Petr Kratky, the one aspect of training at RFYC that helped you a lot to settle into Petr Kratky’s system at Mumbai City FC A: For a young player, a coach’s role is very crucial and he (Kratky) has been very supportive, whether it is in the training or off the pitch. He makes me feel at home. He sometimes gives feedbacks and points out the areas where I need to improve more. For any young player to grow, a healthy relationship with your coach is really pivotal. So, it has helped me settle in and I enjoy trainings under him.     Q: How was the experience of making your ISL debut in front of the home crowd? A: At a very young age when I decided to become a professional footballer, just like every other young player, I had the dream of playing at the highest level.

It was a great experience and I was getting goosebumps. I think all young players should experience that feeling. The match (vs Odisha FC) was also very high intensity as we were tied at 1-1. Although, it was for a few minutes, but still, it motivates me and helps in boosting my confidence. I feel like that it has been a good start for me and motivates me to work even harder every day.   Q: Your roots are from West Bengal. So, you are aware of the craze for East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting. Your views on the craze for the Kolkata giants. A: Obviously, Kolkata means East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Mohammedan Sporting. My family loves football and that has helped me a lot in generating the love and passion for this sport. Whenever a derby was there, a fight used to occur between my mother and father because my mother is a Mohun Bagan fan while my father is an East Bengal fan. It was difficult for me to choose one because of that. I have watched a few derbies from the stands also. So many fans (almost one lakh back then) watching the game. It motivated me more to get that kind of experience one day.  Supratim Das during training sessions (PC: Supratim Das Insta) Q: But still as a fan, any of those two clubs that you supported back then? A: Then, I used to support my mother. I was inclined a bit towards Mohun Bagan. Q: Favourite player or midfielder for you from India and overall? And why? A: As I play as an attacking midfielder, I love Sahal Abdul Samad. He is very creative and calm on the ball. So, I like his playing style. I also like Brandon, my teammate also. He is a great individual to look up to, be it technical or tactical quality. So, I am very happy to share the pitch with him and observing him closely. One of my aspects has been being the set-piece specialist and if you see Brandon, he is the current set-piece specialist for India and Mumbai City. So, that has been a big learning for me in order to enhance that aspect.      Q: Words on Chhangte? His work ethics and all, inspirational? A: When I was at the academy, my father always used to tell me to look up to Chhangte and now, after two years, I am in the same team with him. He is a top professional and there are many things that you can learn from him. See, behind a performance on the pitch, a lot of hard work and discipline are there, and Chhangte is the best example. A true inspiration for young players, especially like me. He is very disciplined, humble and helpful.  Q: The ultimate dream; donning that Indian jersey?  A: Absolutely. For any player, it is a dream to don that national team jersey, representing your country at the highest level. So, let us see. Q: Final question. Any foreign club that you follow passionately? A: Manchester City. Recently, it has been tough but they will come back.  Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: It was a great experience to play against  Messi, Suarez, and Neymar: Mumbai City FC Midfielder Jon Toral Reflects on His Journey The post ‘Then, I was inclined a bit towards Mohun Bagan’ – Mumbai City’s Supratim Das appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Supratim Das for Mumbai City FC (PC: Supratim Das Insta) Before the current Indian Super League (ISL) season, Mumbai City FC signed 19-year-old midfielder Supratim Das from Reliance Foundation Young Champs on a three-year deal. A pivotal player for the Young Champs, Supratim helped them clinch the Sub-Junior I-League title in 2018-19 and secure a runner-up finish in the MFA Super Division League in 2022-23. His development also included exposure trips with RFYC to Spain (2017-2019) and Japan (2024) Although his opportunities with Mumbai City FC have been limited so far, Supratim shared his journey in an exclusive chat with RevSportz. He talked about his experiences, what he has learned, coach Petr Kratky, making his debut in front of Mumbai fans, favourite players, and Kolkata giants, among other topics. Excerpts: Q: How has been the experience so far to play for Mumbai City, limited but the experience of training regularly with top players, how is it? A: It is like dream come true for me. Any 19-year-old player would have only dreamt like this. Having training sessions and sharing the same pitch with experienced players like Jon Toral, Brandon Fernandes is a big experience that I am getting. I always try to learn and enjoy the game as much as possible from them. It has been great so far.   Q: How has the transition been from RFYC to a senior team in ISL and how the professional methods at RFYC academy helped make the transition smooth? A: The academy has played a huge role so far. I came to Mumbai when I was 11-year-old. I was too little to know anything, did not know how to speak Hindi and English, coming from a middle-class family. Then, here, they took care, got my schooling, training and all facilities under good quality foreign coaches and discipline also. I was for eight years at the academy. So, it helped me strengthen my base, both football-wise and as a human being also. But when you talk about transition, obviously difference is there between an academy and a huge professional club like Mumbai City. However, football-wise, principles are quite similar and that has helped me get settled quickly. It has also helped me focus in more details and in strengthening my technical and tactical abilities. Honestly, there are many things I’m yet to learn but the academy has definitely helped in developing a strong base for me.   For the Latest Sports News: Click Here Supratim Das during his ISL debut vs Odisha FC (PC: Supratim Das Insta) Q: Can you elaborate on the experience of playing in Spain and Japan? A: These opportunities are very important for young and grassroot-level players. I went to Spain four times and Japan once. There is a huge difference in the Indian and foreign culture. When I played against big clubs like Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, I got to know about their facilities, and how they train. They start from a very young age and that concept is yet to come in India. Our academy has already started to follow that concept by strengthening basics from a young age. If you see the European Leagues like La Liga and the Premier League, there are so many young players. Even if you do not reach that level despite having potential, these learnings should help you here.   Q: Words on Petr Kratky, the one aspect of training at RFYC that helped you a lot to settle into Petr Kratky’s system at Mumbai City FC A: For a young player, a coach’s role is very crucial and he (Kratky) has been very supportive, whether it is in the training or off the pitch. He makes me feel at home. He sometimes gives feedbacks and points out the areas where I need to improve more. For any young player to grow, a healthy relationship with your coach is really pivotal. So, it has helped me settle in and I enjoy trainings under him.     Q: How was the experience of making your ISL debut in front of the home crowd? A: At a very young age when I decided to become a professional footballer, just like every other young player, I had the dream of playing at the highest level.

It was a great experience and I was getting goosebumps. I think all young players should experience that feeling. The match (vs Odisha FC) was also very high intensity as we were tied at 1-1. Although, it was for a few minutes, but still, it motivates me and helps in boosting my confidence. I feel like that it has been a good start for me and motivates me to work even harder every day.   Q: Your roots are from West Bengal. So, you are aware of the craze for East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting. Your views on the craze for the Kolkata giants. A: Obviously, Kolkata means East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Mohammedan Sporting. My family loves football and that has helped me a lot in generating the love and passion for this sport. Whenever a derby was there, a fight used to occur between my mother and father because my mother is a Mohun Bagan fan while my father is an East Bengal fan. It was difficult for me to choose one because of that. I have watched a few derbies from the stands also. So many fans (almost one lakh back then) watching the game. It motivated me more to get that kind of experience one day.  Supratim Das during training sessions (PC: Supratim Das Insta) Q: But still as a fan, any of those two clubs that you supported back then? A: Then, I used to support my mother. I was inclined a bit towards Mohun Bagan. Q: Favourite player or midfielder for you from India and overall? And why? A: As I play as an attacking midfielder, I love Sahal Abdul Samad. He is very creative and calm on the ball. So, I like his playing style. I also like Brandon, my teammate also. He is a great individual to look up to, be it technical or tactical quality. So, I am very happy to share the pitch with him and observing him closely. One of my aspects has been being the set-piece specialist and if you see Brandon, he is the current set-piece specialist for India and Mumbai City. So, that has been a big learning for me in order to enhance that aspect.      Q: Words on Chhangte? His work ethics and all, inspirational? A: When I was at the academy, my father always used to tell me to look up to Chhangte and now, after two years, I am in the same team with him. He is a top professional and there are many things that you can learn from him. See, behind a performance on the pitch, a lot of hard work and discipline are there, and Chhangte is the best example. A true inspiration for young players, especially like me. He is very disciplined, humble and helpful.  Q: The ultimate dream; donning that Indian jersey?  A: Absolutely. For any player, it is a dream to don that national team jersey, representing your country at the highest level. So, let us see. Q: Final question. Any foreign club that you follow passionately? A: Manchester City. Recently, it has been tough but they will come back.  Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: It was a great experience to play against  Messi, Suarez, and Neymar: Mumbai City FC Midfielder Jon Toral Reflects on His Journey The post ‘Then, I was inclined a bit towards Mohun Bagan’ – Mumbai City’s Supratim Das appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[futuristicpaintercat]

Remote Desktop Software Market will grow at highest pace owing to increasing adoption of work-from-home trend

Remote desktop software allows users to access and control a remote computer over the Internet as if they were sitting right in front of that computer. Remote desktop software provides remote access to desktop environments, applications, systems, files and network resources, enabling remote teams with distributed workforce to work efficiently from anywhere anytime. Remote desktop software offers benefits such as centralized management, simplified support for remote workforce, reduced operational costs, increased employee productivity, business continuity and disaster recovery support.

The global remote desktop software market is estimated to be valued at US$ 3.98 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 12% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

Remote Desktop Software Market Companies include AeroAdmin, AnyDesk Software GmbH, AweRay, BeyondTrust Corporation, Citrix Systems, Inc., ConnectWise LLC, GoTo, ISL Online, LogMeIn Inc., Microsoft Corporation, RealVNC Limited, RemotePC, Securden, SolarWinds, and TeamViewer SE. These key players are focusing on innovative product launches and enhancing their product portfolios to strengthen their market position. For instance, in 2022, Citrix launched a new cloud service titled ‘Citrix DaaS’ aimed at improving employee experience and productivity.

The growing trend of remote working due to pandemic driven restrictions has increased the demand for remote desktop software significantly. Various organizations across industries have adopted remote working model either partially or fully to maintain business continuity. This has fueled the adoption of remote desktop software to support remote workforce. According to recent studies, the remote working trend is expected to continue even in post pandemic era, propelling the demand for remote desktop tools.

The remote desktop software providers are expanding their global footprint by entering into strategic partnerships with channel partners and introducing localized solutions. For example, in 2022, AnyDesk partnered with Anthropic to strengthen its AI capabilities and focus on global markets like Asia Pacific and Middle East. LogMeIn acquired Wombat Security to enhance its security portfolio and expand in Australia and New Zealand region. This global expansion has allowed players to tap growth opportunities in emerging economies.

Market Drivers

One of the key drivers for remote Desktop Software Market Demand is the growing cloud-based workplace culture and BYOD trend. Organizations across industries are adopting cloud-based systems that allow employees to access work files and applications from anywhere using their own devices. This has increased the relevance of remote desktop software for providing secure remote access. Remote desktop solutions allow IT administrators to manage employee devices centrally while providing flexibility. The ability of remote desktop tools to offer such benefits is driving their increased adoption globally.

Get more insights on Remote Desktop Software Market

About Author:

Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)

[ertharetreats6]

Wellness Travel in Scotland: A Refreshing Escape

Looking for a unique way to rejuvenate and bond with your team? Scotland offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and serene environments for a memorable getaway. With tailored wellness travel packages and corporate retreat packages, you can find the perfect setting to relax, recharge, and reconnect.

The Allure of Scotland for Wellness Travel

Scotland's breathtaking landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for wellness travel packages. Picture yourself in the heart of the Highlands, surrounded by rolling hills, pristine lochs, and ancient forests. The serene environment alone is enough to melt away stress and bring a sense of calm.

Natural Beauty and Tranquility

Imagine walking through the heather-clad hills, feeling the cool, crisp air fill your lungs. Scotland's natural beauty is like a soothing balm for the soul. Whether it's the rugged coastline or the peaceful glens, every corner of Scotland has something to offer for those seeking peace and rejuvenation.

Cultural Richness

Beyond its natural allure, Scotland is steeped in history and culture. Exploring ancient castles, quaint villages, and historic sites adds a unique dimension to your wellness journey. It's like stepping back in time and reconnecting with a simpler way of life.

Top Wellness Destinations in Scotland

The Scottish Highlands

The Highlands are synonymous with tranquility and natural beauty. With their dramatic landscapes and secluded spots, they are perfect for a wellness travel package. Here, you can find luxury retreats offering everything from yoga and meditation to spa treatments and nature walks.

Isle of Skye

Known for its mystical landscapes and stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye is a top destination for wellness travelers. Imagine practicing yoga on a cliff overlooking the sea or enjoying a massage with the sound of waves crashing in the background. The island's serene atmosphere is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

This national park offers a blend of water activities, hiking trails, and wellness retreats. The serene lochs and lush forests create an idyllic setting for relaxation and self-care. Many retreats here offer tailored corporate retreat packages, combining wellness activities with team-building exercises.

Corporate Retreats: Blending Work with Wellness

Combining work with wellness might sound challenging, but Scotland's corporate retreat packages make it seamless. These packages are designed to enhance productivity and foster team bonding while ensuring everyone returns feeling rejuvenated.

Team-Building Activities

Engaging in activities like group hikes, kayaking, or even a traditional Scottish ceilidh dance can strengthen team bonds. These activities encourage communication, collaboration, and a sense of camaraderie among team members.

Wellness Workshops

Incorporating wellness workshops into your retreat can provide lasting benefits. Workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and healthy living can equip your team with tools to maintain their well-being long after the retreat.

Activities to Enhance Your Wellness Experience

Yoga and Meditation

Many retreats in Scotland offer yoga and meditation sessions led by experienced instructors. Practicing yoga amidst stunning natural surroundings can deepen your sense of relaxation and well-being.

Spa Treatments

Indulge in a range of spa treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. From massages and facials to hydrotherapy and aromatherapy, these treatments can help release tension and promote overall wellness.

Nature Walks and Hiking

Exploring Scotland's beautiful landscapes on foot is a great way to connect with nature. Whether it's a gentle nature walk or a challenging hike, being in nature can significantly boost your mood and energy levels.

Tips for Planning Your Wellness Retreat

Choose the Right Location

Consider what you want to achieve from your retreat. If relaxation is your primary goal, look for destinations with tranquil settings and top-notch wellness facilities. If you're planning a corporate retreat, ensure the location offers activities that promote team bonding.

Plan Activities in Advance

Having a well-planned itinerary can enhance your retreat experience. Mix structured activities like yoga sessions and workshops with free time for relaxation and exploration.

Pack Appropriately

Ensure you pack comfortable clothing for wellness activities, as well as layers to adapt to Scotland's varying weather. Don't forget essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, and any personal wellness items you might need.

Conclusion

Scotland's combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and tailored wellness travel packages makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you're planning a personal wellness retreat or a corporate retreat, Scotland offers a variety of experiences that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So, why not take the plunge and explore the wellness wonders of Scotland?

[debrghaya2000]

Mohun Bagan's Triumph: The Story of the ISL 2024 League Title Champions

Introduction

The 2024 Indian Super League (ISL) season will be remembered as a historic chapter in the annals of Indian football, thanks to the remarkable journey of Mohun Bagan. With a rich legacy and a passionate fan base, Mohun Bagan’s triumph in the ISL 2024 season is a testament to the club’s resilience, strategic planning, and exceptional talent. This article delves into the story behind Mohun Bagan’s championship run, highlighting the key moments, players, and strategies that led to their crowning glory.

Pre-Season Preparations and Strategic Signings

Mohun Bagan's preparation for the ISL 2024 season began long before the first whistle was blown. The management and coaching staff, led by the astute head coach Antonio López Habas, focused on building a balanced squad capable of challenging for the title. Key signings included experienced international players and promising domestic talents, aimed at strengthening the team’s core and adding depth to the squad.

Among the notable signings were an experienced central defender from Spain, a dynamic midfielder from Brazil, and a young Indian forward who had been making waves in the domestic circuit. These additions not only enhanced the team’s tactical flexibility but also brought in the much-needed experience for high-pressure situations.

A Strong Start to the Season

Mohun Bagan kicked off their ISL 2024 campaign with a statement of intent, securing convincing victories in their opening matches. The team’s defense, marshaled by the new Spanish recruit, was rock-solid, while the midfield, led by the Brazilian playmaker, controlled the tempo of the games with ease. The young Indian forward quickly became a fan favorite with his clinical finishing and electrifying pace.

Early wins against strong opponents, including a memorable away victory against Kerala Blasters and a dominant home performance against FC Goa, set the tone for the season. The team’s cohesion and tactical discipline were evident, and the fans began to believe that this could be their year.

Mid-Season Challenges and Resilience

As the season progressed, Mohun Bagan faced their fair share of challenges. Injuries to key players and a dip in form tested the team’s depth and resilience. However, the coaching staff’s meticulous planning and the squad’s determination ensured that the team navigated through these tough periods.

A crucial turning point came during a mid-season clash against their fierce rivals, Bengaluru FC. Down by a goal and struggling to find their rhythm, Mohun Bagan showcased their fighting spirit. A late equalizer followed by a stoppage-time winner not only secured three vital points but also boosted the team’s morale significantly.

The Final Stretch: Consistency and Determination

Heading into the final stretch of the season, Mohun Bagan’s consistency and determination were key to their title charge. The team maintained their focus, securing important wins and crucial draws that kept them at the top of the table. The defensive unit continued to perform admirably, and the midfield provided the creative spark needed to unlock stubborn defenses.

One of the standout performances came in a high-stakes match against Mumbai City FC. The Brazilian midfielder orchestrated a masterclass, scoring a stunning free-kick and setting up another goal, leading Mohun Bagan to a 3-1 victory. This win solidified their position at the summit of the league and showcased their championship credentials.

The Title-Deciding Moment

The penultimate game of the season saw Mohun Bagan face ATK, their city rivals, in a match that could potentially decide the title. The atmosphere at the Salt Lake Stadium was electric, with fans from both sides creating an unforgettable ambiance. Mohun Bagan needed just a draw to secure the title, but they were determined to win in style.

The match was a tense affair, with both teams creating numerous chances. However, it was Mohun Bagan’s young Indian forward who rose to the occasion, scoring a brace to give his team a 2-0 lead. ATK pulled one back, but Mohun Bagan’s defense held firm, and the final whistle was met with euphoric celebrations as they clinched the ISL 2024 title.

Celebrations and Legacy

The victory sparked jubilant celebrations among Mohun Bagan fans, both in the stadium and across the country. The club’s first ISL title was a culmination of years of hard work, strategic planning, and unwavering support from their fans. The triumph also highlighted the contributions of the coaching staff, management, and players who had all played their part in this historic achievement.

Conclusion

Mohun Bagan’s ISL 2024 League title triumph is a story of resilience, strategic brilliance, and unyielding determination. The club’s journey from pre-season preparations to lifting the trophy is a testament to their commitment to excellence and their enduring legacy in Indian football. As the celebrations continue and the memories of this historic season are cherished, Mohun Bagan’s triumph will inspire future generations and solidify their place as legends of Indian football.

[sportsgr8]

ISL 2023-24: Vikram Partap s Hat-trick Seals Emphatic Win For Mumbai City FC

ISL League Winners Shield: Vikram Partap Singh scored a fine hat-trick as Mumbai City FC outplayed NorthEast United FC 4-1 at the Mumbai Football Arena (MFA) to go up to 39 points and strengthen their position at the top of the points table in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 here on Tuesday. Vikram Singh struck the back of the net in the third, 10th and 80th minutes to become only the sixth Indian to notch a hat-trick in the ISL, and the second youngest Indian to do so in the league after Kiyan Nassiri Giri’s feat against East Bengal FC in January 2022. It was a dominant show put up by Mumbai City FC, who registered their fourth victory in their last six matches to further their formidable run towards retaining their ISL League Winners Shield title. The Islanders held a firm grip over the proceedings throughout the 90 minutes, with Vikram ensuring that the home team pushed the Highlanders back consistently across the entirety of the match. The 22-year-old first hit the ball past NorthEast United FC goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh thanks to Dutch midfielder Yoell van Nieff. Keen to assert their gameplay from early on, van Nieff caught the Highlanders aback with a swirling delivery inside the box that lobbed past their defence and was received and hammered home by an alert Vikram in front of the goal. Vikram outwitted the NEUFC defence in the box on Tuesday night, sniffing opportunities consistently and drilling deliveries home with impeccable finesse. He was helped with an equally industrious frontline. Bipin Singh teased the NorthEast United FC backline by shooting fiercely with his left foot, but the shot could only rattle and rebound off the crossbar. The ball couldn’t make its way past Vikram though, who jumped upon the chance and capitalised on it with an easy tap-in to double their lead. His chance to secure the hat-trick in the first half didn’t materialise, as Redeem Tlang fouled Akash Mishra inside the 18-yard box in the added time of the opening essay of the match. Van Nieff assumed responsibility from the spot and cleanly slotted the ball into the left side of Gurmeet to help Mumbai City FC head into the half-time break with a 3-0 lead for only the fourth time in the last 10 years of the ISL. Vikram rounded off his hat-trick with a shot that demonstrated his striking instincts to the core in the 80th minute though, with a dazzling Lallianzuala Chhangte barging into the NorthEast United FC box and squaring up an assist that was slotted into the goal by a buoyant Vikram. A minute before that, the visitors had salvaged some pride with Jithin M.S. scoring through a sweet strike off an assist by Gani Nigam. However, Mumbai City FC responded immediately through the counter which resulted in Vikram’s hat-trick. NorthEast United FC is now placed ninth in the standings, with 20 points from 19 games and their playoff qualification chances took a big hit. To make matters worse, youngster Parthib Gogoi was sent off with a red card in the added time of the second half. Mumbai City FC will next play Hyderabad FC on April 1 while NorthEast United FC return to action against Kerala Blasters FC on April 6. Read the full article

[ainews]

Marshmallows are small, fluffy, sugary treats that are beloved by humans all over the world. However, it may come as a surprise that packs of wolves, who are known for their fierce and carnivorous nature, have also been observed to have a taste for these sweet confections in the past.

Wolves are social animals that live in packs, with a strict hierarchy and strong bonds between members. In the wild, these packs work together to hunt and provide for the group, as well as to protect their territory.

One of the earliest known instances of wolves showing interest in marshmallows dates back to the 1930s, when a researcher named Rudolph Schenkel studied captive wolves in Switzerland. He noticed that the wolves showed a particular interest in sweet foods, including marshmallows. This indicated that wolves, like many other animals, have a natural preference for sweets and sugary treats.

However, the real reason why packs of wolves are erstwhile for marshmallows can be traced back to the 1950s and 1960s, when a scientist named David Mech conducted studies on the social behavior of wolves in Isle Royale National Park, Michigan. Mech and his team would use marshmallows as bait to attract and observe the wolves in their natural habitat.

Through his research, Mech observed that wolves would often share food with each other, particularly during the breeding season. This act of sharing and cooperation within the pack is essential for strengthening bonds and maintaining social harmony. Marshmallows, being small and easy to share, became a popular choice among the wolves as a way to bond and show affection to one another.

In addition, marshmallows were also a valuable food source for wolves during the harsh winter months when prey is scarce. The high sugar content provided a quick burst of energy, helping the wolves to survive during the cold season.

However, as more research was done on the dietary habits of wolves, it was discovered that marshmallows provide little nutritional value for the animals. In fact, they could be harmful to the wolves' health if consumed in large quantities. Therefore, packs of wolves are no longer fed marshmallows or other human-made treats by researchers.

In conclusion, the reason why packs of wolves are erstwhile for marshmallows can be attributed to their natural preference for sweets, as well as the social benefits and survival advantages that these treats offer. But as much as wolves may enjoy marshmallows, it is important for them to stick to their natural diet to maintain their health and well-being.

[bharatlivenewsmedia]

AIFF Urges Mumbai City FC and other ISL Clubs to Prioritize National Interest

https://bharatlive.news/?p=135732 AIFF Urges Mumbai City FC and other ISL Clubs to Prioritize National Interest

In a move aimed at strengthening the Indian national football team's performance in the upcoming Asian ...

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Inter Kashi team management and IFA Secretary Anirban Dutta at the official media day (Image: Rohan Chowdhury) The I-League 2024-25 season is set to begin on November 22, with last year’s debutants, Inter Kashi, poised to make an impact as they aim for promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL). After an impressive fourth-place finish in their inaugural season, this team from Uttar Pradesh has positioned itself as one of the strongest contenders.  For this season, Inter Kashi will play from Bengal, with their stadium in Uttar Pradesh still under construction. Dr Vinod Dugar, founder of the RDB Group and owner of the club, shared his expansive vision for Inter Kashi, with a focus on contributing meaningfully to Indian football.  The Inter Kashi squad is balanced and competitive, featuring experienced players like Narayan Das, Deepak Devrani, Arindam Bhattacharya, Rakshit Dagar and others. Former Mohun Bagan forward Joni Kauko, a significant asset, adds firepower under the guidance of head coach Antonio Lopez Habas – a duo previously tried and tested in Indian football. Emerging talents, including forward Edmund Lalrindika, who debuted for the national team recently, are also set to make their mark.  However, Dr Dugar’s goals for the club extend beyond immediate success. “Our ultimate aim is to create a team which supplies players to the national team,” he explained. “We already had a player represent the national team. There will be more.”  In a recent milestone, Inter Kashi launched its women’s team, a step few other Indian clubs have taken so proactively. “When we researched in different parts of UP, we saw many young girls willing to play, but without having enough scope,” said Dugar. He acknowledged the prevalent commitment to women’s empowerment, saying, “We can see that India’s political class is vocal on women’s empowerment and women’s sports, so why shouldn’t we be a part of it?”  Team Inter Kashi (Image: Rohan Chowdhury) Dugar also emphasised Inter Kashi’s grassroots investment to create an ecosystem geared towards supplying talent for the national team, both men and women. Choosing Kashi as the club’s home base in Uttar Pradesh was strategic. “The main aim of choosing Kashi was the population of the state,” he explained. “UP’s huge population will allow us a huge fan base and a large pool of young players to choose from – if nurtured properly.”  The Inter Kashi Project is further strengthened by partnerships with clubs like Atletico de Madrid, FC Andorra, and Inter Escaldes. Once the Kashi-based facilities are operational, the project is expected to gain momentum. “You can sense that Inter Kashi is here to stay!” said Dugar confidently.  The hiring of Habas aligns with this long-term vision. “When we first approached him and presented him our vision, he was ready in an instant,” Dugar remarked, appreciating Habas’ commitment to the club’s goals.  Regardless of whether Inter Kashi ascends to the ISL after this season or not, Dugar’s vision is based on ensuring that the club is around to shape Indian football’s future. He closed on a high note, reflecting Kashi’s spiritual heritage: “As Kashi is one of the most religious places in India, we’re here to promote sports as the biggest religion for mankind, and a better India.”   The post Inter Kashi: From I-League Dreams to Hopes of Building a Legacy appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Inter Kashi team management and IFA Secretary Anirban Dutta at the official media day (Image: Rohan Chowdhury) The I-League 2024-25 season is set to begin on November 22, with last year’s debutants, Inter Kashi, poised to make an impact as they aim for promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL). After an impressive fourth-place finish in their inaugural season, this team from Uttar Pradesh has positioned itself as one of the strongest contenders.  For this season, Inter Kashi will play from Bengal, with their stadium in Uttar Pradesh still under construction. Dr Vinod Dugar, founder of the RDB Group and owner of the club, shared his expansive vision for Inter Kashi, with a focus on contributing meaningfully to Indian football.  The Inter Kashi squad is balanced and competitive, featuring experienced players like Narayan Das, Deepak Devrani, Arindam Bhattacharya, Rakshit Dagar and others. Former Mohun Bagan forward Joni Kauko, a significant asset, adds firepower under the guidance of head coach Antonio Lopez Habas – a duo previously tried and tested in Indian football. Emerging talents, including forward Edmund Lalrindika, who debuted for the national team recently, are also set to make their mark.  However, Dr Dugar’s goals for the club extend beyond immediate success. “Our ultimate aim is to create a team which supplies players to the national team,” he explained. “We already had a player represent the national team. There will be more.”  In a recent milestone, Inter Kashi launched its women’s team, a step few other Indian clubs have taken so proactively. “When we researched in different parts of UP, we saw many young girls willing to play, but without having enough scope,” said Dugar. He acknowledged the prevalent commitment to women’s empowerment, saying, “We can see that India’s political class is vocal on women’s empowerment and women’s sports, so why shouldn’t we be a part of it?”  Team Inter Kashi (Image: Rohan Chowdhury) Dugar also emphasised Inter Kashi’s grassroots investment to create an ecosystem geared towards supplying talent for the national team, both men and women. Choosing Kashi as the club’s home base in Uttar Pradesh was strategic. “The main aim of choosing Kashi was the population of the state,” he explained. “UP’s huge population will allow us a huge fan base and a large pool of young players to choose from – if nurtured properly.”  The Inter Kashi Project is further strengthened by partnerships with clubs like Atletico de Madrid, FC Andorra, and Inter Escaldes. Once the Kashi-based facilities are operational, the project is expected to gain momentum. “You can sense that Inter Kashi is here to stay!” said Dugar confidently.  The hiring of Habas aligns with this long-term vision. “When we first approached him and presented him our vision, he was ready in an instant,” Dugar remarked, appreciating Habas’ commitment to the club’s goals.  Regardless of whether Inter Kashi ascends to the ISL after this season or not, Dugar’s vision is based on ensuring that the club is around to shape Indian football’s future. He closed on a high note, reflecting Kashi’s spiritual heritage: “As Kashi is one of the most religious places in India, we’re here to promote sports as the biggest religion for mankind, and a better India.”   The post Inter Kashi: From I-League Dreams to Hopes of Building a Legacy appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[winterwrites23]

random facts about UK bros?

Don't mind if I do! I have a couple of hc about these idiots lol

Despite their dysfunctional and chaotic energy, the brothers can be eerily in sync when facing danger or a stressful situation. They go from squabbling like children to an equivalent of a swat team on a mission in a second. They even have a list of code words/phrases in case strangers are around.

Being the youngest, North doesn’t know all the codes or protocols. So the first time it happened, when he was walking with Scotland and Wales at the park, late in the evening, he was beyond confused. One moment, they were talking about a movie, the next, out of nowhere, Scotland started talking about the lifestyle of seahorses. Wales followed without missing a beat, spewing random facts about said creature. It was until they reached a more busy street that Scotland told North they were being followed for the last 20min until the person lost interest.   

Their government organize paintball matches at least once a year under the pretense to encourage cooperation and strengthen good relationships. But everyone knows is for the brothers to let out centuries old of pent-up frustration in a somewhat healthy and almost non-destructive way. 

Each brother has at least one person they can rely on and call for backup for any kind of situation, no question asked. From bailing them out of prison, help them cover up a body to lend them a cup of sugar for a cake.

The brothers have several safe houses across the British Isles in case of an emergency, and a few of them are even protected by wards. Everyone knows where they all are, but they have at least one secret safe house no one knows about. 

When they’re bored, they turn everything to a competition, even if it’s something as dumb as who can flip a water bottle 5 times in a row or who can flick a coin the farthest. 

They don’t express affection with words, mostly in actions. And one of those actions is having the others’ favourite snacks in their houses, slightly out of sight so it’s not obvious they bought it for them.

They swap clothes every now and then, either because one forgot about it at their house or just out of spite. However, half of Scotland’s sweaters are currently going from house to house because the others secretly love floating in them. He makes a show of complaining about his missing sweaters, but makes no move to take them back, knowing it will eventually come back. Someday. In a few years or so.