#Mantra Device Service

[polo-drone-001]

The Gift of Unity

The Hive headquarters shimmered with festive warmth, its golden lights casting a glow that wrapped the entire space in a sense of purpose and unity. This was a time of giving, a time for the Golden Army to honor their brothers through meaningful gestures, each gift strengthening their bonds and celebrating their collective spirit.

In the quiet hum of the training chambers, Polo Drone 001 stood immaculately, his black rubber polo gleaming with gold accents under the Hive’s glow. His glowing golden eyes scanned the line of drones before him, each standing rigid, their glossy uniforms catching the light with perfection. The energy in the room was palpable, a silent anticipation building.

001 stepped forward, his boots clicking softly on the polished floor as he approached PDU-084, a seasoned and respected drone whose recent innovations had elevated the Hive’s efficiency. From behind his back, 001 produced a sleek black box, tied with a ribbon of shimmering gold. The golden glow of his eyes reflected off the surface as he extended the gift toward 084.

“PDU-084,” 001 said, his voice steady, every word purposeful, “your dedication has driven the Hive to new heights. Accept this token as recognition of your precision and service.”

As 084 opened the box, the anticipation in the room seemed to hold its breath. Inside lay a sleek black rubber collar, its surface smooth and glistening, with "084" engraved in bold, golden letters at the center. 001’s tone was devoid of emotion, yet carried the weight of pride. “This collar is not just a mark of recognition but a reminder of your place within the Hive. Wear it with pride, for it symbolizes your unity with the collective.”

084 bowed his head as he accepted the collar, his hands trembling slightly as he fastened it around his neck. The other drones raised their voices in unison: “Obedience. Precision. Unity.” With a subtle nod, 001 returned to the line, his glowing golden eyes scanning the formation once more. “Serve the Hive. Strengthen unity. Perfection is our purpose.” The mantra echoed powerfully, solidifying the moment as the drones fell back into disciplined silence.

In the golden locker room, Ezan stood at the center of his team, his golden AC Milan jersey clinging to his sculpted frame. His masculine scent, a potent mix of alluring musk and raw athleticism, filled the air, wrapping around his teammates like an invisible pull of dominance. His hypnotic golden eyes scanned the room, their glow drawing the attention of every player present.

“070,” Ezan called, his voice rich and commanding, the kind that could silence a crowd with its sheer presence. 070, the team’s tactical powerhouse, stepped forward with a confident stride, his gaze meeting Ezan’s with mutual respect.

From behind his back, Ezan revealed a golden VR headset, its surface gleaming and engraved with the Hive’s laurel emblem. The VR headset was no ordinary device; it was a tool of connection, of precision, and of training. “This,” Ezan began, his deep voice resonating in the quiet room, “is for you. Your vision and strategy have guided us to countless victories. This headset will sharpen your skills even further, bringing us closer to perfection.”

070 took the headset, his hands firm, his posture unwavering. “Thank you, Ezan,” he said, his voice resonating with pride. Around them, the players erupted into cheers, clapping 070 on the back as Ezan’s hypnotic gaze lingered on the room.

Before stepping back, Ezan raised his hand, his tone softening yet retaining its authority. “Brothers, remember this. Our strength is in our skills, our unity, and our brotherhood. This is what makes us golden.” His words hung in the air, a potent reminder of their bond as a team.

Upstairs, in the polished and elegant office of the Hive’s operations, Percival exuded effortless charm. Dressed in a perfectly tailored golden blazer, his preppy elegance was matched only by his magnetic presence. His desk was a masterpiece of precision, every document and accessory meticulously placed, reflecting his disciplined nature. As 110 and 016, two esteemed members of the Hive, knocked at the door, Percival’s warm voice called out, “Come in.”

They entered together, their eyes bright with curiosity, knowing that a visit to Percival’s office always came with purpose. Percival greeted them with his signature smile, a disarming mix of charm and authority. “Gentlemen,” he began, his tone smooth and inviting, “you both have served the Hive with unwavering dedication, and today, I wanted to honor that.”

Reaching into a golden gift bag, Percival first addressed 110, pulling out a gleaming golden paintbrush, its handle etched with intricate patterns of laurel leaves. “110,” he said, handing over the brush, “your creativity and innovation have brought beauty and strength to the Hive. This brush is a symbol of that, a tool to continue crafting the vision that binds us all.”

110 took the paintbrush, his expression a mix of pride and gratitude. “Thank you, Percival,” he said, his voice steady yet touched with emotion.

Percival then turned to 016, reaching once more into the bag and producing a golden pen, its sleek design embodying precision and authority. “016,” he said with a warm smile, “your words, your ideas, have shaped the Hive in ways few can match. This pen is a testament to your influence and a reminder of the power you wield through your vision.”

016 accepted the pen with a quiet nod, his respect for Percival evident. “Thank you,” he said simply, yet the weight of his words carried deep gratitude.

Percival leaned back, his gaze shifting between the two. “Both of you embody what the Hive stands for: creativity, precision, and unity. These gifts are tools for you to continue elevating us all. Now, go forth and show the Hive what you’re capable of.”

As 110 and 016 left the office, the smile on Percival’s face lingered. His golden eyes flickered with pride and satisfaction. The Hive thrummed with life, each space filled with acts of recognition and unity, each gift a step closer to perfection.

Though they operated in different realms, 001 among the drones, Ezan on the field, and Percival in the office, their purpose was the same. Every gift they gave carried the weight of connection, a reminder of the unyielding bond that tied the Golden Army together. Under the glowing lights of the Hive, the message was clear: every action, every gesture, brought them closer to the perfection they sought as one.

Thank you bros, @polo-drone-084, @polo-drone-070, @polo-drone-110, @danielgold-16 and Caps @brodygold, @goldenherc9

[spookyspecterino]

Back to You Again

Tangerine x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Injury, mention of blood, mention of death/fear of death, arguing/bickering, swearing. Serious idiots in love who have a little trouble expressing their feelings and choose the wrong time to do it.

You've been gone a little while. A few months to be specific. Why? Tangerine can only guess, but he's not happy about it.

Requested by @nocturnest. I'm so sorry this took so long. I started it thinking it was going to be short and then 7K words flew out. 😬Anyway, thanks for your request. It's been a long time since I wrote anything seriously and this was really good for me. Hope you enjoy!

“Laser cutter. Three auto-rifles. Two handguns. Three boxes of ammo each.”

Check.

The binoculars are heavy duty, and the metal texture grates your fingers as you pull them up to peer through the lenses into the next building over. A high-rise that had at least 30 floors. All windowed at least, which made this a little easier on you.

“In through the fifth-floor service area. Through the employee hallway to the service elevator.”

A map of the building laid next to you on the gravel roof. It hadn’t been easy to get your hands on it, but it was worth it for a building as secure as this. No security measure had been overlooked by this man and as paranoid as he seemed it went a long way to his credibility.

“In and out through the service elevator. 20 mins tops. Oh, the jammer.”

A handheld device that you’d paid top dollar for. Yes, it has duct tape holding pieces of it together, and the screen was a repurposed old Gameboy front, but it is the best your back-channel dealer could provide.

How did anyone do anything without a handler these days?

The jammer would save you the trouble (if things turned sideways) of dealing with reinforcements. It flickers to life by flipping a switch smoldered to its side. The thing really does look like a piece of garbage.

Several frequencies and networks flashed across the screen, all of them belonging to the building you were surveying. Scrolling through, only a few needed to be shut down, too many and it would raise alarms.

Wifi was the last to be turned off and then you would really need to book it inside.

Everything planned out to a T. Entrance and exits mapped. Back-up plans (and back-up plans to those back-up plans) in place. Extra weapons and ammo in case you had to go out guns blazing. This should be no problem.

“Office-penthouse on the top floor. Computer terminal on the desk, west side.”

Get to the computer, get the files, destroy everything. If you happened to kill the son of a bitch, well, that was a bonus.

You sigh and rub your face, trying to work out the stress lines that seemed to make a permanent home between your brows. “Now I just need to stop talking to myself.”

It was an unfortunate habit you’d picked up in the last few months of working alone. Usually, you had… no. This was no time to think of them, or of him. You have to focus. After this is done, you can go back and apologize, even grovel if you have to.

But now is the time for focus.

In the middle of repeating this mantra, one you’ve been repeating for the last month, you happen to look up at the street. Not for any real reason, nothing had drawn your attention. Nothing was amiss in your perfect plan.

Except two very familiar faces walking down the sidewalk.

Lemon and Tangerine.

Clad in their typical attire. Snazzy suits, dress shoes, and ties.

Your stomach does several things. First it flips at the sight of Tangerine as he saunters with his hands in his pockets, then it sinks and twists into painful knots.

“No, no, no!”

They can’t be here! Anywhere but here!

The two walked casually down the sidewalk, as if they were taking a nice midday stroll. No rifles, no car, nothing. Either they were ballsy as hell…or wildly misinformed about this building and the man inside.

Something in you hoped, prayed, they would pass the building. That they were going somewhere else.

They took a sharp turn to cross the street—toward the building entrance—and your breath turned ragged, your blood chilled. At the same time, your mind was churning with practicality, cold and calculated ideas. Some nasty part of you that had gotten you this far in such a dangerous career, that had nestled in you a long time ago and only now resurfaced in the months of being alone.

You could just walk away; they have their job, and they’re professionals. They can handle themselves.

You could go in after and clean up without ever being seen. Easy. The plan you made could still work, Tangerine and Lemon would be a perfect distraction.

But you were already moving. Lega working on their own and putting you into motion. Fingers tapping off the Wi-Fi signal on the jammer while you slung your duffle bag over your shoulder.

This was not the plan, you argued with yourself as you flew down the back stairs. You’ll get yourself killed being this reckless and impulsive. What happened to in and out in 20 mins?

With every point you made the other side of your mind made a counterpoint.

They’re underprepared. They’re misinformed. They don’t have the firepower to walk in the front door, hell, they don’t have enough bullets to make it to the second floor.

“God damn it!” You yelled, taking the stairs down two at a time. Your voice echoed off the walls in the cramped stairwell. The rifles in your duffle bag clattered and banged together.

They’d be killed. Tangerine and Lemon would be killed. You couldn’t let that happen.

. . .

“I say we take a hostage and negotiate our way up.”

“Yeah, sure, Lemon.”

“This guy’s what, a tech billionaire, or something?”

“Probably.”

“Ok, so he’s a nerd. Easy job.”

“Uh-huh.”

Lemon shoots his brother a less than happy look. Tangerine is staring off into space with a slight frown, hands shoved deep in his pockets as he hunches over a little. Which wasn’t new, he’d been doing that a lot lately. A reflection of his dour mood.

Lemon rolls his eyes. “Oh, mate. Come on. We’re on a job.”

Tangerine shrugs, frowning harder. “I’m fuckin’ aware of that, Lemon.”

“Then stop with your sulking! What have I told you?”

“No—” Tangerine waves a hand, “—you don’t need to say it again—”

“Just send her a letter or something. She’d love it.”

Tangerine groans, he’s starting to get a headache now as they near the target building. “As I’ve said before, I attached letters on the flowers I sent.”

Lemon opens his mouth, but Tangerine cuts him off. “And I sent more than one bouquet. For fuck’s sake, her house probably looks like a tropical rainforest by now.”

“What about—”

“I’ve sent her presents. Jewelry. Perfume. A new phone in case hers was broken. Fuckin’ hell I even had her porch repainted.”

“And she didn’t say anything?”

“Nothing.”

Lemon hesitates. “Did you say you’re sorry?”

Now Tangerine was about to lose it. His eye twitched, not that his brother could see it. “Sorry for what? She’s the one that up and disappeared without a word.”

“I still think you should say it. Just to cover your bases.”

“I’m not apologizing. We were all perfect and you know that. She was happy as a clam and if something was wrong, she would have told me.”

“Then why’d she—”

“You’re really getting on my fucking nerves, Lemon.”

They were across the street from the main entrance now. Two glass doors with golden handles reflected the brothers. In sync they both took a sharp turn toward them. Through the glass they didn’t see anyone else in the lobby and there was a long, chest high counter with a clerk along the far back wall.

Neither of them blinked at how empty the lobby was. Their client had said this target was some kind of informant, but that was about it. They’d paid half up front and sent them on their merry way.

Tangerine yanked open the glass door, holding it for Lemon. He was beyond pissed and just wanted this to be over with. Despite his complaints he was still mulling over what his brother said. Should he apologize, even though he had done nothing wrong? He didn’t think he’d done anything wrong, and he had thought back on all the times you’d been with them, working a job or not.

He’d been happy, he thought you were happy too.

The white floor tiles of the lobby were so shiny they could check their reflections in them. The whole place was upstanding and flaunted wealth. On both sides of the spacious lobby were two silver elevators. The clerk, a lady in her mid-thirties, looked up at them as they walked in. She picked up a phone and turned away as she spoke.

It took them 10 seconds to reach the desk, and, in that time, Lemon had pulled out his gun.

He pointed it at her now. “Hang up the phone.”

She pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes. Not the usual response someone has when a gun is pointed at them, but she slowly hangs up.

“Come out from behind the desk, slowly.”

There’s a moment when she does nothing. Then, “No.”

Tangerine blinks, then pulls out his own gun. “Did you really just say no? Listen lady—”

She leans forward over the desk, leering. “Turn around and get the fuck out.”

Lemon shoots into the wall slightly to her left. She doesn’t even flinch at the sound. “I will fucking shoot you. Get out. From behind. The desk.”

She leans back. “Cute gun.”

Tangerine starts to get a sinking feeling. He turns to Lemon, about to say they should take a walk (maybe find a back entrance to this place instead) when the woman pulls out .22 Uzi from somewhere in the desk. They only catch a glimpse of the muzzle before they start shooting wildly and ducking.

Lemon takes a shot to the chest with a grunt. Tangerine hears the bullets whizzing past him and shattering glass.

The desk clerk turns disappearing behind an employee door seamlessly built into the wall.

They crouch down next to the desk. Tangerine’s head pounds, as it usually does when a job gets out of control.

“You alright?” He reloads his gun, watching his brother carefully.

Lemon checks himself over, patting his chest and stomach. “Yeah, all good, the vest caught it. This is fucked what do we do—”

He doesn’t get a chance to finish as both elevators open and squads of heavily armored men pour out. They all have automatic rifles and black Kevlar vests.

“Behind the desk!” Tangerine shouts, pulling Lemon up.

They jump over just as the bullets start flying. Glass shatters, wood splinters, tiles crack. It’s utter chaos and Tangerine and Lemon can only sit behind cover.

“I think we might be fucked!” Lemon shouts, checking his gun.

Tangerine grits his teeth, mind racing. “The client didn’t mention this level of security! I’m going to wring their fucking neck!”

“We’re outmatched!”

“No question, Lemon! Thanks for pointing that out!” Tangerine can feel his brother’s rising anxiety as he shifts his weight from foot to foot.

 “What do we do?!”

“We hope to God this is all of them and try our best to make it out of here!”

“You’re saying—”

Tangerine fires blindly from behind the desk. “Yes, we bail on this job and break our client’s fucking legs!”

The onslaught never seems to end. These assholes are top security and they’re trained well. Their shots chip away at the desk piece by piece, Tangerine and Lemon can feel the bullets violently embed themselves in the wood against their backs.

Tangerine glances at the employee door, there’s no handle and no way to pry it open. He figures there’s a remote control that opens it somewhere from behind. He tries to remain calm, think of a way out that isn’t behind at least 10 guys with rifles.

What would you do in this situation? His heart feels like it’s been pierced with a lance as he thinks of you. Obviously, you would never be caught in a situation like this. You were careful, practical, methodical in the way you planned out jobs.

He wished you were here with him.

Instinctually, his hand reaches into his pocket, grabbing his phone. Lemon watches him with something close to sympathy on his face.

Your number is on speed dial. Tangerine presses a button and holds it up to his ear.

It goes straight to voicemail.

The automated answering machine has become very familiar to him these last few months. Were you checking his voicemails? He’d left you enough to fill up your mailbox, he was sure of it.

“Please leave a message after the tone.”

He hopes you can hear him over the sound of gunshots.

“Yeah, look. Lemon and I, we’re in a bit of a pickle. I was really hoping you would answer this time ‘cause we need help. Since you didn’t, I just wanted to say that you’re a real prick for leaving us the way you did. And you haven’t said a single thank you or anything for all the gifts I’ve sent. Poor Lemon has been wondering where you went off to.” He pauses. This wasn’t the way he wanted to start this message, but every other attempt at getting your attention has failed.

“You know how I feel, I’ve made that pretty clear. But right now, I’m just pissed. Nothing has worked, so I’m going to break into your house and wait for you to come home.”

Lemon gives him a startled look, shakes his head from side to side.

Tangerine frowns. “Don’t take that the wrong—Alright, I won’t break into your house, but I will wait on your doorstep. Every day, I’ll be there until I see you.”

Lemon is still frowning, but Tangerine ignores him.

“This is all because…Well, I…” He struggles, throat turning dry and closing around the words he wants to say. Instead of continuing, he hangs up.

Sitting back against the desk he exhales. The gunfire has stopped to an occasional patter here and there.

Lemon runs a hand through his hair. “Bruv, what the fuck was that?”

“A last-ditch effort at getting some backup.”

They fell into silence; the lobby was eerily quiet. They knew the security team was just waiting for them to come out from behind the desk. The air crackled with energy.

Lemon checked his pockets. “I’ve got two clips left, you?”

“One and a half.”

The look they share conveys their doubts, their dread. An unspoken conversation passes between them.

Tangerine puts it in the back of his mind. “I’ll run out first, then you go a few seconds later.”

“No way, we go at the same time.”

He shakes his head but arguing only puts off the inevitable.

“Go to the opposite side of the desk.”

They split, crouching behind opposite corners. There was no way either of them would be able to make it two steps without taking 10 rounds to the chest. The image of you stays in Tangerine’s mind. He just wished he could see you again. Whatever comes next, afterlife or not, he hoped you—or some form of you—would be in it.

Tangerine gives Lemon one last look, finds that his brother is watching him, and gives him a somber nod. He holds his gun up, takes a deep breath, gets ready to run…

He’s out from behind the desk, gritting his teeth and firing in a flash.

He hits one, another to his left falls from Lemon’s bullets. His legs are shaky, he can feel them trembling.

Rifles take aim.

Tangerine opens his mouth to urge Lemon on.

And a grenade goes off.

The loud bang startles him, his ears ring and a second later he’s shrouded in white, smokey fog. Tangerine stops, confused, looking around to try and find Lemon. But a strong hand yanks him and drags him back. He stumbles, scattering empty bullet shells along the ground, and falls onto the tile.

He’s back behind the desk. Lemon falls next to him.

A pair of legs stands between the brothers. Next to them lies a green duffle bag. Empty rifle shells fall to the ground. Tangerine didn’t even realize guns were firing. He followed the legs up in one long sweep of his eyes.

. . .

A million and one things were going through your mind as you fired an automatic rifle at the security team in the lobby. The biggest thing was holding back every fiber of your damn being from screaming at Tangerine and Lemon for being so foolish.

If you had been a breath later, a second too late, these idiots would be laying in a pile of their own blood on the floor. That thought definitely won’t haunt you for a few months.

The other thing you were concentrating on was ignoring the way Tangerine was staring at you right now. He’s not hurt—you kept repeating, over and over again. He’s ok.

The security team was scattering for cover, but finding little, making your job easy as the last of the smoke cleared. They hadn’t been expecting someone to come in from behind and you’d shot a few in the back before throwing the smoke grenade. Only a few were left now.

They seemed to get over their surprise and began firing back, opening the elevators, and using the inside cabins for cover. Keeping the doors open would stop them from being sent back up for more goons to come through. That was good.

You duck down behind the desk. They were still staring at you.

“Yes! Hello!” You stubbornly gritted out while staring into the wood.

Tangerine’s mouth opened and closed many times, but no words came out. That didn’t mean Lemon wasn’t able to say anything.

“Did you get his message?” He was grinning like some kind of fool.

“Message? Which one?”

Was he talking about the hundreds of messages—texts, voicemails, and letters—Tangerine had been sending on a weekly basis? Yes, you’d gotten them. Read every single one. It had been hard enough sleeping normally, after all that you hadn’t been able to sleep at all. The guilt was overwhelming.

Lemon’s eyes dart to his brother. You did the same and regretted it immediately.

Tangerine’s eyes were practically bulging from his head. His mustache twitched.

Oh, he’s pissed.

You quickly look away and clear your throat. “Are you on a job?”

“Yeah, a shit one. We were just trying to bail.”

“Can’t blame you. What happened, bad intel?”

Tangerine’s voice resembled a growl, it grated against your ear, but it wasn’t entirely unwelcome. “Understatement of the century, love.”

Love. Love. Love.

Lemon wipes his forehead. “What’re you doing here?”

“I have my own problems with your target.” You turn to Lemon but feel Tangerine’s eyes burning a hole in your back. “I was about to sneak in when I saw you two walking down the street.” You check your gun, then rummage through the duffle bag for another clip.

“A massive coincidence then?” Lemon was holding back a smile, eyes darting to Tangerine occasionally. It was as if they weren’t just about to die only five minutes ago.

“If you two still want to bail, that’s fine with me. I’ll give you a window after taking the rest out. I’m going to push on.”

Tangerine spins you around by the shoulder to face him. “Are you fucking mental?”

You’re very close together. The determination it takes not to just lean in and…

Speaking slow, you’re focusing your words and hoping it gets through to him. “Your target has info on me that could get people hurt and ruin my reputation. I need to wipe his computer.”

For all his credit, Tangerine takes you seriously in that moment, even as he looks like he might commit murder. He looks to Lemon—they do that ‘sibling conversation’ without words that they’re so good at.

“We’ll stick around to help.”

“You sure?”

Something in him ignites. There’s a fire behind his eyes. “Fuck yes, we’re sure.”

He’s giving mixed signals now. Is he angry? Probably. But apparently not angry enough to leave you on a job alone.

“Alright…” You say, slowly backing away.

You search through the duffle bag, cold objects graze your fingers, you can identify them each by touch. The laser cutter has a rubber handle. “Lemon—" You toss it to him. “—Cut a hole in the employee door. Tangerine—” You grab another rifle, placing it into his hands. “—Help me take out the last of the guys.”

He takes the rifle and for a moment your hands touch. You expect him to flinch away, or recoil, but he lingers there for a moment. His golden rings gleam—of course he wore them, he never leaves them behind—and catch your eyes until he takes the gun from you.

Fucking confusing.

It had been months, but the three of you worked together like no time had passed at all. Tangerine falling in sync with you, watching your back. Working in tandem, the few remaining riflemen dropped like flies.

“Doors open!” Lemon shouted tapping you and Tangerine’s shoulder.

The three of you waste no time dashing into the small service hallway. Tangerine grabbed the duffle bag and slung it over his shoulder. You were just about to pick it up, but he gave you a look.

There wasn’t as much polish to this part of the building, the lighting was dimmer, and it lacked the white tiles, replaced by a steely gray metal flooring instead. The hallway was long and narrow, its walls matched the floor in color.

“This should lead to an employee elevator. That will take us to the top office.” You panted, oddly exhilarated.

Lemon was looking down the hallway as he crouched. “Watch out for the desk clerk, she went this way.”

“Still can’t believe you both just walked in the front door…”

“We don’t all have your sense of planning, darling.” Tangerine huffed, hiking the bag higher on his shoulder.

“Did you have any sense of planning?”

“Lemon had a plan.”

You turn halfway back to face him. “You—Tangerine!”

He fixes you with an odd look. “What?”

“Lemon doesn’t even read the briefs! And you let him make the plan?” You shoot an apologetic look to Lemon. “No offense, you’re really great in every other area.”

He gives you a half smile. “I appreciate that.”

Tangerine grinds his teeth. “In my defense, the intel in the brief was already bad.” He steps closer, into your personal space. “And you always come up with the plans.”

You don’t shy away from him, in fact, you inch closer. “I’m sorry I wasn’t there to make them, but you should know better—”

Lemon sighs, long and loud. “Can you two please focus? We’re in the middle of a dangerous situation here.”

It took a moment for you and Tangerine to resume, the closeness was intimate. Electricity crackles in the air between you.

You both say ‘Fine’ at the same time, like stubborn teenagers. The tension hadn’t settled one bit.

If Tangerine needed to be ignored for the remainder of this mission, then ok. That’s fine. No problem. That doesn’t bother you one bit. Nope.

The three of you empty the duffle bag of its contents, splitting the ammo and giving Lemon the pump action shotgun. That shotgun was your Hail Mary in case shit hit the fan—which, by your definition, it had.

You three were your own personal attack squad now, armed to the teeth.

The employee lift was at the end of the twisting hallway, metallic doors shining like a beacon. The panel to call it only had the arrow pointing up, a one-way lift. You’d poured over the maps late into the night leading up to your personal mission, often with a glass of wine, and it had struck you as odd that it only offered a one way up.

You jab at the button, and the little golden light is stark against the greys around it. Tangerine stands just behind you; you can hear his breath over your shoulder.

“Why’s it only one way?” he asks, hushed and tense.

“I asked the same question.” You responded turning a little to look at him. “I thought it might be security measures.”

“Doesn’t really make sense though, does it? It lets people like us up.” Tangerine zeroes in on your frown. “What is it?”

“There might be internal controls from the top office. This guy doesn’t fuck around with security.”

“Who is this guy anyway?” Lemon sniffs, casting a look back down the hallway.

“An asshole that likes snooping into people’s personal business.”

The brothers trade looks.

“He also works in satellite tech, undercover ops, information gathering.”

There’s a gentle bump into your shoulder. “He’s been snooping into your business, has he?”

How long is this elevator going to take?

“He has.”

“Did he try to blackmail you?”

“Yes.”

“What did he find?”

The elevator dings and the sleek metal doors slide open. The inside is full of ominous red and gold hues. The luxuriousness of it gives you the impression that the boss of the building takes it regularly.

Instead of answering, you step inside and forcefully hit the button for the top floor. Tangerine watches you carefully, studying you. Somehow, he looks like a kicked puppy, yet holding the rifle he takes on a much more sinister tone. He still looks dashing as hell in his suit though. You can see the little gold chain of his necklace around his broad neck.

Focus, focus, focus!

His mustache twitches a bit as he catches you staring. And to top that off, he stands in front of you, very closely in front. Either trying to shield you or irritate you. Possibly both.

He’s wearing the cologne you got him as a present almost a year ago.

“If there’s in house security for this lift, we should be prepared.” You shift a little to see Lemon over Tangerine’s shoulder.

“What do you suggest?”

“They know we’re coming, so we have to be fast. Their access to elevators has been blocked. All remaining security teams will need to take the stairs. This elevator opens to another employee hallway that we’ll have to exit in order to reach the office. That’s assuming—”

The elevator stutters, something above you screeches in the elevator shaft, and the panel lights flicker. All three of you stumble as it comes to an abrupt stop and the dim emergency lights switch on. They coat the interior in a faint red light, turning it into a nightmare scenario.

 You groan. “That’s assuming they don’t just turn the elevator off. Fuck.”

Lemon places the shotgun on the floor and motions to Tangerine. Together they pry the paneling off to reveal the switchboard underneath. Lemon fusses with the wiring, using a knife to cut through some and connect it to others.

Sparks fly, flashing in the dim light. Your anxiety ramps. Trapped in an elevator was not on your list of things you wanted to deal with today.

While Lemon fussed with wires, Tangerine turned back to you. “Relax.”

“Excuse me?”

“Try to stay calm, we’ll be out in a second or two.”

Your blood boiled hot. “Don’t tell me to be calm.”

Tangerine smiles at you. “I know you hate elevators.”

“They’re fine, I just particularly hate being trapped in them.”

“Just relax, I’ve got you.”

“That doesn’t help at all!”

More sparks and flickering lights and the elevator doors open an inch. Tangerine has the audacity to smirk in that moment and he touches your chin briefly. His eyes gleam in the dim light.

If you all lived, you were going to kill him.

The twins work wordlessly to pry the elevator doors open. It takes a tremendous effort and both of them are sweaty and breathing hard at the end, but there’s enough space for a person to climb through. Except, you’re going to have to jump down into the office below. Half the elevator is blocked.

“Well, good news is…” Lemon says, scratching his head, “we can get out. And if the elevator can only fall downward.”

“The elevator only goes up, Lemon.” You choke out.

“Oh. Right…well, best get a move on then.”

“I’ll go first.” Tangerine volunteers.

On instinct you reach for him. He sees the slight movement before you hold yourself back.

As if it was easy, he’s crouching down, squeezing through the doors, and jumping into the office below. All with his gun in his hand. Meanwhile, your heart is doing summersaults in your throat.

He holds his hands up, beckoning you. “Come on. You’ve done harder things than this.”

You force yourself to move, crouching down and inching toward the opening. You toss him your rifle. “Like when?”

“Like when you jumped between rooftops in Venezuela.”

“I wasn’t thinking when I did that! And in hindsight, it was fucking stupid of me.”

He laughs. “I’ve got you. Come on.”

You squeeze through the doors, imagining the elevator crashing down, the doors snapping shut, something—anything drastic, and then throw yourself at Tangerine. He catches you with practiced ease and holds you close to him.

He says something you don’t catch over the sound of your trembling breaths. There’s a pat on your shoulder, Lemon is out.

Regaining yourself, you move away from Tangerine and straighten your clothes. His brow furrows, mustache tilts down. Maybe it was your imagination, but did his fingers grip your clothes? A silent plea for you to stay?

You do your best to ignore it. “Let’s go. Did anyone catch what floor we stopped on?”

“37th.” Lemon says, handing over your gun.

“Two floors short.”

“You think they’re waiting for us?”

“I’d bet money on it. Be careful, both of you. I don’t want to see any heroics.”

Tangerine’s eyes follow you as you move to the front and lead them through the hallway at a jogging pace. The single door at the end is much like the one you entered on the first-floor lobby. There’s a control panel for it to the side. As you run up to it, you press your ear to the other side.

No noise.

Your hand hovers over the button. With one last look behind you at the twins you give them a nod, then press it. The door clicks open a fraction, and everything goes to shit.

They were waiting for you on the other side of the door and the gunfire started up immediately. Your vision was blocked immediately, and you were pushed and tugged out by a strong hand—the world was a blur of loud shots, ringing ears, and scrambling. Grey cubicles shoulder-height tall were set up along the floor, which made spotting the enemy incredibly hard. All the fighting was done in the tight walkways between the office spaces.

Your shirt had blood on it, but you had no bullet wounds. Tangerine sat beside you, holding an arm. He’d been shot in his right arm.

“I said no heroics!” You practically shrieked.

Lemon was firing between cubicles, and from the sound of it, he was holding his own.

“What was I supposed to do, love?” Tangerine pants through the pain.

“You’re supposed to let me handle it!” You’re shouting as you pull out some gauze. The bullet went straight through his upper arm. He’d need stitches but, overall, he would be ok. You poke and prod gently as he hisses with each touch.

His teeth are gritted as he grunts out, “You wanted to get shot?”

“I’d take a bullet for you, happily. You know that.”

“I feel the same way, which is what I was doing.”

“I still don’t want you to!”

“I don’t want you to, either!”

Something bounces off your back. It’s a stapler. Both you and Tangerine stare at it for a moment, confused.

“Oi! You two! Get over yourselves and actually talk about your feelings for once!”

You whip around to stare daggers at Lemon. “Did you just throw a stapler at me?!”

He’s taking cover behind a grey cubicle not too far away. “Yeah, I did! I’m sick of you two avoiding an actual conversation. Talk—it—out!”

Tangerine sits up, pushing against your hands on his chest in your weak attempt to keep him down. “You’ve lost your mind, mate!”

“Thomas would say to express your feelings, that bottling them up is bad for you! So, express them!”

“Is it really necessary—” You pick up your rifle and fire blindly down the walkway, “—to do this now? We’re a little busy!”

“It’s now or never, I know you two! Once all this stops, you’ll avoid it!”

Tangerine looks perplexed, like he’s really considering it, and you try not to look at him again. “Fuck this job!” You shout, before rolling into the walkway and opening fire.

The two or three men that hadn’t been behind cover are caught by surprise and the bullets chew through the walls of the cubicles. A deadly silence permeates the office floor, only the ringing in your ears remains.

Another shot rings out and you feel like your shoulder’s been ripped from the socket.

You’re thrown back onto the ground. It must have been a heavy round, your left arm is completely numb, do you even have an arm left?

There’s shouting and more gunshots, the grey office walls and floor merge into one as the room spins. You’re getting pulled off the ground, someone is prodding your arm. Absentmindedly, you swat at whoever is doing it.

“Listen, hey, open your eyes!”

Tangerine…

You obey. He’s inches in front of your face, brows furrowed, a vein in his forehead sticks out.

“I’m fine.” You cough out. “Just fell down, is all.”

“You’ve been shot!”

“Oh.”

He struggles, he looks like he has more to say, but stays silent. You swat at Lemon who’s wrapping your arm—or shoulder, more accurately. “I’m fine, let’s keep going.”

“You’re not fine.” Lemon grunts, pushing your hand away. “It was a .308 round. You’ll be lucky if you have any bones left in your shoulder.”

“Why’d you do that?!” Tangerine is shouting, running his hand through his hair. You both match now, he’s bandaged up on his left arm too.

“Do what?” You ask through gritted teeth as Lemon tightens the bandage.

“Run out like an absolute lunatic?”

“I told you I’d take a bullet for you.”

His eyes bug out. “You threw yourself into the line of fire!”

“All in a day’s work. Now, can we get back to it?” You don’t wait for a response, instead pushing yourself to your feet. Your left arm hangs to the side, limp and numb. A dull throb pulses through your side.

Tangerine watches you. “We need to have a serious discussion when this is over, love.”

You huff out a breath, swaying slightly. “Noted.”

The three of you push on in tense silence. Tangerine makes sure you’re behind him while the rest of the floors leading to the main penthouse office are cleared. He’s acting so stubborn, blocking you at every turn, holding you back with a gentle, yet unyielding hand. The vein in his forehead never goes away.

Finally, the double doors leading to the office are before you. Platinum gold, of course, with carved handles. This guy’s style was beginning to get obnoxious.

Lemon kicks open the doors with as much anger and prejudice as you feel (yet can’t muster at the moment). Instead of what you were expecting, the target stands alone behind his desk. He smirks, giving off a Wall Street investor impression with his pressed suit and perfectly cut hair.

He spreads his arms wide. “I really should have known you three would be together for this.”

“Shut up, wanker.” Tangerine shouts, pointing his gun.

The target opens his mouth to say more, but Tangerine doesn’t let him. He empties the clip into the man’s chest.

The target dies with a startled look on his face, falling back over his desk.

You move past Tangerine, fighting his hands that grip at your clothing. “Thank God for that.”

The computer is easily hacked, the files you’re after are on the desktop. Maybe the dead man was looking to bargain—or gloat. You glance at his dead, glazed over eyes.

Bastard.

Tangerine paces, looking at you often. His job is done, the confirmation is sent to the client through Lemon’s phone.

Your files are downloaded onto an encrypted flash drive, and you rip the wiring out of the computer’s back, smashing the server tower. Mission accomplished.

“I guess now that you have what you need, you’ll disappear again.” Tangerine is glaring at you, chewing his lip. His bandage is bloody.

The flood gates open.

“I needed these files!” You shout, worsening the headache you already have.

Tangerine shouts back, taking a step closer. “I would have understood if you had just told me!”

“I couldn’t have told you!”

“Why not?”

“Because—well—I didn’t—It doesn’t matter now!”

“So, you disappear for months, without a word, for something you won’t even tell me about?!”

“I didn’t want to involve you! I wanted to get this done myself!”

“I’m involved now!”

“It was a shitty coincidence you showed up here today, and I’m sorry you got hurt because of this job!”

“I’m not concerned about me!”

“Well, you should be! I care about your safety!”

“And I care about yours!”

In the corner, Lemon shakes his head.

You hold your arm, trying to work some feeling back into it. It throbs and you wish you hadn’t. “I would have come back after this was done.”

“Oh, really?” Tangerine laughs dryly. “How was I to know?”

You groan, throat turning dry. “You’re so impatient! I just needed a little time!”

“You know how often I tried to reach you—?”

“Yes! I heard every message, got every bouquet of flowers—and thank you for my porch, that was really nice.”

Tangerine flounders a little, he still wants to argue, but some of the steam has been let out. “A thank you would have been nice.”

“I’m thanking you now!”

“A whole good that did when I thought you were done with me—” He shoots a look at his brother, “—and Lemon!”

“I’ll say I’m sorry a thousand more times, Tangerine! Is that what you want?”

He turns his back to you, grumbling something.

“I don’t understand why it was such a big deal to you, we’re contractors! We kill people for a living, and you’re freaking out—”

He spins back around. “It’s a big deal because I thought you were hurt.” He stalks closer, you notice his hair has come undone from the neat gel, curls flair out around his neck. “I thought something happened to you!” He’s within arm’s distance now. “It’s a big deal because I love you!”

And then he stops. His eyes go wide, as if he’s just spilled a secret.

Fuck, he did just spill a secret. Maybe you had known, but he’s never said anything. It was always just little guesses here and there, a thought—a feeling—and inclination. Late nights, especially recently, that you spent thinking about it, wondering.

Your mouth falls open in the silence. “I—I…love…” but damned if your mouth just wasn’t getting it out.

Arguing and bickering was so much easier.

But he knows, he can see it in the way your eyes soften, in the way you swallow with a dry throat. In the way your hand reaches to him, and your body leans forward.

“You know…” Lemon says, looking up from his phone, “Most people would kiss at this point. Just a suggestion.”

A quip, a very fitting one, comes to mind and you’re about to tell Lemon just how you’re not normal people, when Tangerine pulls you to him. Your chest presses to his and his lips are on yours in an instant.

Hungry, needy. It’s desperate, an urgent need be close, to be touching. Burning with desire and hot with passion. You give into it.

His mustache scratches at your lips and you pull him into you, threading your fingers through his curly hair, mussing it up even more. His hands grip at your back, pull at your clothes.

Closer. You need to be closer.

Fuck air, the feeling of his lips moving against yours is the only thing you’ll ever need again.

Your arm throbs and the dull pulse shoots up to your chest. You sigh, half in pain and half in pleasure. Unfortunately, Tangerine pulls back. There’s blood on his lips and he looks concerned.

“Wait…” You mumble, trying to pull him back to you. He’s your lifeline now.

“You need a doctor, love.”

“Just a little longer.”

Tangerine chuckles, wrapping an arm around your back. “After you’re patched up. I promise.”

…Bonus…

“You’re going to ‘break into my house and wait for me to come home’?”

Tangerine groans, throwing his head back as you walk into the small office. Private clinics with ‘respectable’ doctors. Gotta love ‘em.

“Love, I didn’t mean it, I was in a life-or-death situation—I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking—”

You give a good-natured laugh, sitting next to him. You’d been patched up first, Tangerine was just waiting for some blood work to come back.

Tangling your fingers in his you give his hand a gentle squeeze. “I’m just teasing, Tan. I know.”

“Ok.” He sighs, giving your hand a squeeze back. “Good.”

You ruffle through your pockets to pull out your phone, your arm stings, but the pain medication the doc gave you does wonders. “I thought about it, I think you deserve to know why I was after your target.”

He looks at you with new interest now.

You tilt your screen to show him.

It had pictures of you and Tangerine. Pictures of you sitting together at lunch, laughing. Pictures of you walking down the street together, arm in arm. Pictures of you looking like a couple.

“Oh,” he breathes out, “I see.”

“I was worried you’d be put in danger if these…well, if they got into the wrong hands.”

“Didn’t want our clients to think we were softies either, huh?”

“That too.”

He presses his face into your hair. He hasn’t expressed his feelings for you again, but you’re starting to realize he always had—just through actions instead. A gentle hand on the small of your back. Wrapping an arm around your waist. Leaning down to speak softly into your ear.

These were just as much of an expression as words.

“Will we have to do this every time?” he asks, voice muffled slightly.

“Every time what?”

“It’s only a matter of time before more pictures of us make it into someone’s hands.”

“Oh. That’s a good point.”

He pulls you a little closer. “I’ll be dammed if I have to stop taking you out over that.”

“Then I guess we’ll just have to kill whoever tries something like that again.”

“We’ll do it together next time, yeah?”

“Absolutely.”

[gynarchyboi]

MsReneeLane isn't available at this time day 9

For those of you who have gone through my training on Fetlife you know these 10 rules of male submission by heart. It's time to share them on Facebook. Submission is a 24/7 and 360 degree commitment that reaches deeply into how a man lives his life.

1.Exercise Daily: Be physically fit for general physical and mental health. A woman cannot train someone too weak to accept her discipline.

2.Eat Healthy: Deny yourself the empty calories of white sugar and starchy foods. Think of your female owner, when you deny yourself. Diet is part of your spiritual path.

3.Read good books. Talk about them: conversation and communication is a cornerstone of good relationships. By increasing your knowledge and expanding your horizons you make yourself a more interesting companion.

4.Volunteer: Be active in your community and give back to society. Join a service organization, pay the dues, volunteer your efforts. By becoming active, you increase the number of people you interact with and you make yourself a more well-rounded person.

5.Accept Discipline. Stay chaste most of the time.: Gain focus and determination by harnessing your sexual desires.. Remaining chaste for the woman in your life allows you to focus on serving her more diligently. If you are single, limit orgasms to the weekends. If you are partnered, surrender when and how you orgasm to your domme. Practice wearing a chastity device until it becomes a natural part of you. Submit to a weakly discipline session from your domme to help you on your path of submission. Never make mistakes to enhance this punishment. Instead, be slavishly devoted and thankful for any discipline a woman gives you. Always do your best.

6.Clean: Maintain a clean and organized living space. Dig in and do the boring drudgery of housework. Your efforts will give your woman enough energy to dominate you. If you are single, live as if a woman might inspect your quarters at anytime.

7.Promote and Support Women: Promote the practical and political needs of women. Doing this will give you a deeper understanding of women. Vote for women in whatever politics party you find yourself. See the promotion of books like mine as something practical you can contribute to hasten the coming matriarchy. Consider how much easier finding a domme could be if there was a movie you could direct a prospective woman to see. You could point at my sub in the movie that I hope to make and say, "I dream of living like that man for the right woman." She will see the love and devotion of this sub and become interested.

8.Respect All Women: Treat all women as if they were the key holders of your chastity belt. Especially treat women with respect who because of age or looks don't have a lot of sexual power. Other women will see this and they will be impressed by your sensitivity to women.

9.Disengage: Abstain from pornography and live in the real world. Limit yourself to 30 minutes a day of leisure activities online. Limit television. Spend your free time working, reading, playing, and loving others.

10.Recite Your Mantra: Intone it several times daily. Do this out loud. Recite it for your ears to hear, "I am only a slave; it is a privilege to serve." This simple act, overtime, will redirect your focus towards serving all women and especially the woman in your life. This mantra will empower you.

Do all 10 of theses. Don't leave one out. Women are always watching. Our eyes scan the herd, looking for the right man to cull and make our own. Make yourself the perfect prey.

Date Jun 24, 2019.

[inafieldofdaisies]

WIP Whenever | Tagged by @stacispratt and @adelaidedrubman ❤️

A snippet from Chapter 1 of John's misadventures as a lawyer. Leslie and other familiar faces are in this universe too, baby.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have begun our descent into Portland. Please turn off all portable electronic devices and stow them until we have arrived at the gate. In preparation for landing, be certain your seat back is straight up and your seat belt is fastened.  Please secure your carry-on items, stow your tray table, and pass any remaining service items and unwanted reading materials to the flight attendants. Thank you.", the long-awaited announcement was music to John's ears as he looked through the window at the city and its twinkling lights below. 5 hours had passed in what he could only describe as torture. His day before that hadn't gone too well either, it felt like anything that could go wrong had, in one way or the other. His alarm not going off and almost making him late. Showing up at the firm only to find out Preston Manning, his second chair on the case, had called in sick and wasn't going to be making the trip with him. Penny slipping him her number for heaven knows what time and offering him a "quickie" in the bathroom for "good luck". More like a quick and proven way to get me a meeting with HR. Traffic and a flight delay (not unsual but still absolutely nerve-grating paired with everything else). The TSO officer taking way too long fondling him, as if he could have been hiding anything under a simple suit. The airline double booking his seat and giving him another last minute, which had doomed him to sit next to a menace of a passenger. In many ways he was happy to have left Manning behind in Atlanta, but he also couldn't deny the fact despite all his flaws he would have been more tolerable than the man that was currently using his shoulder as a pillow. He had lost count how many times he had shifted in his seat, tried to shake off the pesky passenger, hoped eventually he would stir up and move away, giving back his personal space. He better not have drooled all over my suit, or I'd be meeting with my client in jail sooner than anticipated. And we'd be wearing matching outfits.

It's all he could think about as he nudged the man away yet again and absolutely not-so-gently with his patience worn completely thin. "We're landing.", John muttered under his breath when an annoyed look was sent his way, like he was the one being out of line. He brushed off his dark gray pinstripe suit before crossing his arms over his chest, and focused his gaze outside once more, refusing to pay further attention to the crude individual next to him. Deep down, he didn't mind having to fly over to meet with the people he would be representing, he found a certain type of thrill in being up in the sky, had dreamt of becoming a pilot for as long he could remember, but being forced to share such a tight space with others was definitely testing his limits and making him deal with not so pleasant thoughts. "Ladies and gentlemen, our crew welcomes you to Portland. The local time is 10:22 pm. For your safety and the safety of those around you, please remain seated with your seat belt fastened and keep the aisles clear until we are parked at the gate. The Captain will then turn off the “Fasten Seat Belt” sign, indicating it is safe to stand. Please use caution when opening the overhead compartments and removing items, since articles may have shifted during flight." The man next to him yawned over the voice of the flight attendant, his hand almost smacking John in the face as he went to stretch after his long nap. Don't do anything. Don't say anything. The mantra played on repeat in his mind and he could already imagine himself in his hotel room. The promise of a shower and soft bed was the only thing that got him through the loud clapping from "Naptime Sam" and each slow step that led him off the plane and into the airport. John clutched the strap of his leather bag he always used as carry-on, ignoring the excited chatter around him, his eyes darting from suitcase to suitcase in anticipation of his own finally showing up on the baggage carousel. Just as he spotted it and moved ahead to grab it, a child rushed past, bumping into him in the process. "Ah, I'm so sorry, Mister.", the redheaded girl said quickly, sending a apologetic toothy grin his way as she clutched a small rainbow duffelbag. He waited for the annoyance that usually came from every human interraction to swoop in, instead he ended up returning the smile while he heaved his suitcase off the line and headed for the exit. "Savannah Mae.", the girl breezed past, running towards a sharp dressed woman and grabbing her outstretched hand.

Cool air hit his face as he stepped past the sliding doors of the airport, gaze shifting between the cars parked out front and his phone that for some reason refused to turn on. Goddamn it. I charged you, I know I did. Penny had sent him a message with the details of the driver that was supposed to pick him up, as well as his hotel reservation, and he had no way of accessing either. "Welcome to Portland, sir.", an older gentleman reached for his luggage, and he breathed out a sigh of relief, telling himself his night was starting to look up. The man hoisted his suitcase into the trunk of the black SUV and swifly jumped into the driver seat, peeling off down the road just as John reached out for the door handle. "What the-" "Mr. Duncan?", a voice came behind him, partly drowned out by the shock that coursed through his body and rooted him to the spot to watch the vehicle disappear out of view and take his suitcase with all his belongings along with it. "Mr. Duncan. I'm sorry I'm late, there was a traffic accident…", John swiveled around, doing his hardest to keep his temper in check. He breathed in deeply, his tone taking a dangerous note and making the man in front of him wince, "What did you say?" "I-I- I'm here to pick you up.", the driver gestured to his own car behind him and forced a smile, "You're Mr. Duncan, correct? You're traveling light." "FUCK.", the word broke free before he could stop it while a hand ran over his face. This isn't happening. No. Not to me. No. "Mr. Duncan?" He opened his eyes again, fingernails digging into his palm, grounding him as he spat out, "I was robbed." The man blinked in surprise, "Robbed? Here? Now? How?" "My suitcase.", he shook his head, letting out a bitter laugh, "My damned suitcase." "Someone stole your luggage?" "Yes.", it was all he could muster, already feeling done with the conversation, with the day itself, with Portland, with the onlookers staring his way, with "Naptime Sam" that chose the moment to walk through the doors.

"Oh my god, I-" John brushed past the driver, throwing his small bag into the backseat and slipping after it with a growl. Shitstorm. Ah, Clive? He watched the man scramble around the front of the vehicle in confusion, the car door slamming shut after him putting a stop to his line of thought. "Mr. Duncan,-" "Do you have a phone charger?", he asked impatiently, making it his priority to figure out which hotel he was supposed to be staying at without having to deal with Penny. Shaky hand reached for the glovebox, pulling out a charging cord and passing it over, "Shouldn't you talk to someone at the airport? Report the theft?" And watch them flail around and tell me I was technically on the street, find a damn loophole so it's not their problem? "Mr. Duncan?" "Drive me to a police station, I don't care which one, uh, I didn't catch your name…", he finally replied as he stared down at the device in his hand, waiting for it to turn on. The screen refused to light up no matter how long it stayed plugged into the car's port, making him release a sigh of defeat. You're dead, aren't you? "Robert. And are you certain, sir?" "Yes." The man nodded, turning the key in the ignition, "May I ask, how did your luggage-" "I don't want to talk about it.", John trained his gaze out of the window, pocketing his phone as the realization that his night was far from over set in. The idea he no change of clothes for his first in-person visit with Mooney in the morning and was probably going to get no rest before it, felt like the final straw. And knowing his luck since being handed over his newest case, he was about to deal with an incompetent police officer next.

The scenery outside passed in a blur, making him zone out while fatigue fough to take over his body. No matter how many hurdles life threw his way, he refused to give up, promising himself he was going to win the court battle, prove Clive he had made the right choice by naming him partner at "Westbrook, Harrison and Jones". "and Duncan", now. Robert cleared his throat to draw his attention, announcing, "We're here, sir." "Thank you.", John muttered as his fingers wrapped around the door handle, the man's next words giving him a pause. "I won't be able to wait around… I have another pick-up arranged and it's on the other side of town. Would you be okay on your own?" "Sure.", he would have been lying if he was to say had expected anything else as outcome. "Have a good night, Mr. Duncan.", Robert called out and drove off, leaving him in front of an off-white building, the silver letters above its entrance spelling "City of Portland Police Bureau" confirming he was at least at the right place. He muttered a silent prayer as he pushed past a set of double glass doors and stepped inside the precinct. One win. Give me one win tonight. No more tests. No run-ins with inadequate officers of the law.

He took in the beige and dark blue interior, noting the dead quiet ruling over the lobby as the doors shut behind him. His feet carried him over to the front desk, the human shaped silhouette behind its protective glass giving him hope despite the lack of greeting upon his entry. Any hope he harbored died a horrible death the second he reached it, and an unmistakable muffled snore carried over from the officer that was reclining back in his chair. "Excuse me,", John gritted out, frowning at his name tag, "Officer Bradley.", but the curt words failed to wake the man up. "Excuse me.", he tried again, louder this time around, yet the officer was as unresponsive as his phone. Just when his hand rose, ready to bang against the glass in another attempt to grab his attention, quick footsteps sounded behind him followed by a melodic voice calling out a simple, "Hello." that made him spin around. His narrowed gaze was met by the most expresive pair of hazel eyes he had ever seen, and he blamed the exhaustion for how they almost knocked the wind out of him for second. A wave of familiarity washed over his system as he scanned the woman standing in front of him, his baby blues running over the gray streaks framing her face then down to the freckles scattered across her nose until they stopped at her lips just as they parted, "Can I-" You... Detective Donovan.

He didn't know if he wanted to laugh or curse at fate and its idea for a joke. He'd read over the information on potential witnesses for the upcoming trial for weeks, had stared at her picture enough times to memorize her features, yet the grainy image he was presented with paled in comparison to seeing her in person. He'd expected to meet the detective in court, looked forward to it, in fact, especially after everything her personnel file had revealed. He wasn't supposed to come face to face with her when he was having an unarguably awful night and on the verge of cracking. Close to grabbing one of the lovely chairs you have for visitors and throwing it at your welcome desk. Because I'm not feeling very welcomed, currently. "Your colleague is sleeping on the job.", John interrupted whatever she was about to ask him, but her smile didn't waiver at his sharp tone and the demeaning way he had used the word "colleague". Like Bradley was beneath him. And she was too, just by assosiation. If it wasn't for the spark of defiance in her eyes, he would have guessed she was completely unbothered. "It's the first quiet night we've had in a long while, Mr-" "Duncan." Anticipation coursed through his system as he waited for her to say his name back, and he refused to think too much about what her presence alone was doing to him. How it was threatening to unravel his already fragile composure. And how much he wanted to hear his name again the second she uttered it out. "Mr. Duncan, what can I help you with?", she continued smoothly, biting down on her lip as she regained him. John crossed his arms, nodding to the messenger bag she had hanging over her shoulder, her attire hinting at the fact she was headed out, "Shouldn't that be Officer Bradley's job? Are you even on the clock?" "He'd point you to a division, just as I would."

His lips quirked up at her blunt reply, "I've come to report a crime." All he got this time around was a nod. She was expecting him to continue, to give her more than stating the obvious. "I landed at PDX and,", he paused, hating the idea he had to admit he had fallen victim to such ridiculous con, "a man blindsided me by pretending to be my driver and stole my luggage." "That's-" "Awful?" He was too keen on how he was drinking in every little mannerism she displayed, like how she pursed her lips in displeasure at the news, before saying, "Follow me." "And what about your colleague?", he remarked as he fell into step behind her. His gaze was drawn in by the belt of her black oversized coat tied in a loose bow swaying with every movement she made, and he couldn't help but scowl at how her body was almost completely covered by the garment and then at himself for even entertaining the thought, when he had more important matters to deal with. "Lenny's wife just gave birth recently.", she explained quietly, "Letting him catch some rest is the least I can do." A bleeding heart. It's what you have, Detective. On paper and in person.

Detective Donovan led him down a long hallway, moving past multiple doors that seemed to open up to offices for different divisions until she came to a halt and knocked on a door marked with "Robbery". Seconds passed without a reply from the other side, instead of rapping again, she grabbed the door handle and pushed it open, revealing a series of empty desks. Of course. She turned around with an apologetic look, "I think they're out on a case." John raised an eyebrow, "All of them?" "Understaffed. It's what happens when you get people retiring and on sick leave all at once." He exhaled in frustration, but aside from that kept his silence. "I can check who is on duty and call them…" "And you?", he ignored her suggestion, suspecting he wouldn't get anywhere at that late hour, especially with an offence that would be considered "low priority" in comparison to other cases. "Me?" "You didn't tell me your name or division." Another smile. He was becoming addicted to those. Why didn't you smile in your photo, Detective? That right there, is a robbery on its own. Then, a hand was offered to him, and he wasted no time, enveloping it in his. "Sabrina Donovan. I'm a Detective at Missing Persons. So I fear I won't be of much help with your case, Mr. Duncan." The handshake was getting past the line of socially acceptable, but he couldn't bring himself to let go, "I see, tracking down missing belongings isn't really among your duties."

Sabrina pulled her hand out of his grasp, walking into the office ahead of them and aiming for a large bulletin board at the far end. Her index finger traced over a sheet of paper pinned there before she was on the move again. "Give me a second.", she said as she stopped at the desks, picking up the phone receiver and dialing whoever was supposed to be reachable from the team. "Stockton. You or any of the others planning on heading back soon?", she was back to chewing on her lip while she listened to the man on the other end of the line, "And some kind of ETA for me?", there was a pause, "At PDX. A suitcase. No, and no as far as I'm aware. Vic came straight to the precinct." After what felt like forever where she listened intently about his potential options, she wrapped up the phone call with a quick thank you and walked back to where John was leaning against the door. Her face told it all - she wasn't bearing exceptionally good news. "They're unsure when they would be back, but a couple of hours at the very least." His eyes darted to his watch, "It's almost midnight." Sabrina winced, "I know. The suggestion was you either wait up for them here, return in the morning or-" "Or what, Detective?" "I can jot down notes for them, anything you can provide right now, take down the report and pass it along, to get your case moving as soon as possible…" He frowned, "Basically, do their job for them and deal with something below your paygrade? Weren't you headed home?" He hadn't missed the way she had avoided his question prior, how she had stayed behind when she appeared to be leaving in the first place.

"Won't be my first time of working overtime or helping a fellow detective. The sooner we have an official case started, the quicker they can locate the guy. I'm sure after flying, the last thing on your mind would be to sit around at a police station for hours, when you could be getting some rest." It was obvious she was prioritizing his wellbeing and that of the front desk officer before her own, and knowing her records by heart at that point, he suspected she wouldn't give up on the idea easily, so all he could do was agree, "Okay." She pushed past him at that, her scent teasing him at the closeness in the doorway and haunting his senses as he followed her further into the building and towards an elevator. "We're on the second floor.", Sabrina stated and pressed the call button, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. The doors opened promptly with a ding, and they both stepped on, the ride feeling disappointingly short for his liking. "I suspect my stolen suitcase wouldn't be much of a priority?", John guessed as she followed a similar path to the one on the first floor. "I didn't say that." "But simple larceny wouldn't be as serious as whatever case the on duty officers are following at that time of the day." "Ah, I'm not really at liberty to discuss that." "Naturally."

"And you, Mr. Duncan?" "Me?", he mimicked her earlier question. "What do you do for a living?" He could sense even the smallest amount of curiosity in her words, making him smirk, "I'm a defense attorney." She laughed, and he couldn't decide which was better - her smiles or her laughter, "That explains it. And judging by your attire, well, would have been my first guess." "Oh? Should I feel offended?" He was flirting. With, no doubt, a future witness. Clive would ask what had taken over him and why he'd even entertain things further. Good thing he's not here. And I'm not really someone to do things by the book. "No.", she shrugged as she stopped in front of her own division's sector, "You certainly have that aura about you." With that, she pushed the door, open, drawing the attention of a fellow detective inside. "Rina,", the man called out, "Didn't you go home already? Should I push you out the door?" "Ollie. Behave." The man's eyes stopped on John finally, noticing his appearance for the first time as he moved his feet off his desk, "Do we have a case?" "No, no, I'm doing Stockton a tiny favor." "Again?" The word piqued his interest, same for the strange looks "Ollie" kept sending his way. "Don't start, Oliver."

John paid the man no mind and took a seat in one of the chairs across Sabrina's desk as she removed her coat until she was down to a simple gray shirt that was unbuttoned halfway to reveal a dark turtleneck underneat it. His eyes shifted from her to her work space, noting how tidy it was, especially compared to her colleague's, and had a couple of framed pictures he wished he could see. "Fine. But you know, Leslie wouldn't be that easy to silence in voicing his concerns." She ignored the warning, gaze moving back to John's, "Name." "John Duncan." He noticed how she silently mouthed his name as she typed it, and doubted it was a habit she was aware of. The next minutes consisted of marking down his basic information, and he loathed having to recall the slip up, how he had fallen for such a silly trap, especially when he was anything but incompetent. "It's good you remember a partial plate. That, paired with the car's description, and, the fact, PDX would no doubt have footage of the incident…" "You're confident they'd find my belongings." "The perp, most likely. Belongings, I can't say. At least, the things of most value." Oliver walked over, placing a cup in front of Sabrina before leaning in closer to whisper something that caused her to giggle and mutter a quiet, "Stop it, Ollie. Absolutely not." She cleared her throat as she tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear and took a sip of coffee when the man wandered back to his own desk, "Would you like a coffee, Mr. Duncan?" She was yet to say his first name, and he wondered how it would sound coming from her, if she would utter it out as playfully as she did Oliver's. Doubtful. "No, thank you." "Well, I think I have everything noted down. If you don't have any further questions for me…"

She was wrapping things up, sending him on his way, putting an end to whatever time he had in her presence. Then it hit him, "Can I ask to make a phone call?" "You're not under arrest, Mister.", Oliver remarked jokingly. He ignored the jab, his focus remaining completely on the woman in front of him, "My phone died, and I have no idea which hotel my reservation has been made at…" "Ah, I see.", Sabrina reached for her bag, pulling out her phone and passed it over to him after she unlocked it. At the same time he produced the little folded post-it note Penny had crammed into his pocket that morning, trying his hardest to hide the ruby red lipstick stain on it out of Sabrina's view. Her homescreen wallpaper gave him a pause. It was a candid picture of a familiar looking redheaded girl, Sabrina and a man that- What in the- If I squint I can almost convince myself he looks like me, Detective. He doubted she'd appreciate the observation, yet his curiosity about the man's identity and relation to her only festered while he punched in Penny's number. Just as he was starting to wonder if she would pick up, her voice came through, and he rushed to quickly get the needed information, trying to keep the interraction as short as possible. Sabrina pushed a notepad towards him, together with a pen to note down the address, Penny was relying in an overly excited manner despite the fact he had called her for assistance at almost 3 am. "Thank you, Penny. Have a good night.", he muttered flatly and hung up, returning the phone to Sabrina. "She must be worried." Are you fishing for information? "She's not my girlfriend, just an assistant at my firm.", he blinked at the confession that he had blurted out, despising the fact Oliver was there to witness his slip-up and laugh at it. My firm? "I, um, I wasn't really-", Sabrina shook her head, deciding against whatever she was about to say, "I sent over the report to Detective Stockton, he will be in touch soon. I will note down your hotel information since you're having phone issues, so he'd be able to call there and get a hold of you through reception for the time being…" "Thank you."

She rose up, quickly gathering her things and putting her coat back on now that she had sorted out his report, "I will see you out then." John followed suit, exiting into the hallway first as she announced to Oliver, "I'm heading home for real this time, Ollie. You better not snitch to Leslie." "We shall see about that.", he hollered back, "Good night to both of you." As they made their way down to the lobby, Officer Bradley was finally awake and staring at John with a similar to Oliver's expression, "Staying late again, Rina?" Sabrina only laughed as she passed his post, "Bye, Lenny. Hope things stay quiet." She pushed open the doors before John could do it, wrapping her hands around herself as they stepped out into the chilly night. "Thank you again.", his voice was even, perfectly hiding the disappointment he felt on the inside because they were parting ways. "Of course." He expected her to leave at that, especially with the hint of awkwardness that remained in the air after he had mentioned Penny. Seconds passed by in silence where he clutched his only bag and wondered if she'd look at him the same way and be so eager to help him if she knew he was representing one of the most hated men in Oregon. Someone she herself had a run-in with. You wouldn't, would you? You'd probably curse at me. Call what happened to me premature karma.

Instead of wishing him a cheery goodbye and leaving him to his own devices to watch her disappear like the car of the man that had stolen from him, Sabrina gave him another small smile as she stuck her hands in her coat's pockets in an attempt to warm up, "If you don't mind me asking… you do have a way to get to your hotel, right?" John quirked an eyebrow, taking his time to respond and enjoying every moment of where she shifted in place as she waited for him to reassure her he would be alright. It was too bad he wasn't about to do that. Not when it meant she would feel content to head home. Not when the alternative was stealing a few more minutes with her. And he liked his second option more. Field work. You'd call it a "stakeout", wouldn't you? Getting to know my future oppponent. The promising young detective that had apprehended Mooney and was bound to make defending him a challenge. There was no doubt the jury would love her. Feed on her genuity and charm.

"I do not.", he muttered out slowly, watching her face closely, memorizing how the street light above them picked up the gray strands in her hair, "I assumed I could grab a cab, despite my lackluster luck tonight." She nodded along to the idea, but made no move to leave, "You certainly could." John could sense an in, and he took it shamelessly, a step bringing him closer to her until her sweet scent invaded him again, "Were you about to suggest something else?" Cross the line. Offer your help again. "I-", a shake of her head cut off her words as she frowned. She was putting up a wall once more, guarding her thoughts just like she had on his oversharing about Penny. "Yes?", his hand reached out to tuck a piece of her hair that the wind had picked up behind her ear, voice growing huskier when he added, "Tell me." Her breath hitched the second his fingers grazed her cheek, probably feeling the same current that passed over his skin at the contact and still clutched him even when his arm dropped by his side. Sabrina blinked away the haze they seemed to be sharing, "I was going to offer you a ride, Mr. Duncan." "John. Call me John, Sabrina." Something flashed across her face at his correction, "Hm?" "It's my name after all." It was as if all the background noise ceased to exist as he waited for her lips to form the word and he suspected even if the detective he was supposed to wait on or the criminal himself that had wronged him showed up right there and then, he wouldn't care. She was the sole holder of his attention. "I was going to offer you a ride,", she paused, "John. But I'm not-" "Yes.", the word rushed out, cutting off whatever excuse she was about to make about it being a bad idea, probably thinking of the grinning man on her homescreen. Doesn't matter who he is, Detective. I can recognize interest when I see it. And damn, if I don't want to hear you say my name again. His eagerness seemed to be obvious and… amusing to her, "You sure?" "Are you planning on driving off with my carry-on, Sabrina?" "Cross my heart. I won't.", she gestured to the street behind her, hiking her bag further up her shoulder, "I'm parked over there." A smirk appeared at the fact he was winning, "Lead the way then, before you freeze."

Tagging, @socially-awkward-skeleton @direwombat @strafethesesinners @strangefable @voidika @aceghosts @nightbloodbix @madparadoxum @jillvalentinesday @euryalex @corvosattano @poisonedtruth @purplehairsecretlair @josephslittledeputy @josephseedismyfather @g0dspeeed @trench-rot @cassietrn @chazz-anova @clicheantagonist @dumbassdep @thesingularityseries @theelderhazelnut @florbelles @simplegenius042 @shegetsburned @v0idbuggy and anyone that would like to share a little something this week

[chrismkundaliniservices]

𝗞𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗶 𝗦𝗮𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰

Music and spirituality are deeply interconnected. Spirituality often initiates the inspiration for the creation of music.

Music has a very strong transcendent property, throughout history, music has been used in various spiritual ceremonies and rituals in the form of singing, chants, drums, and prayers.

Listening to devotional music such as mantras and prayers music regularly can bring about more positivity, balance, and healing when the soul and karma are ready to receive it.

It can elevate mood, foster relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase self-esteem. In some cases can even speed up the recovery time from illness or injury.

When you start paying closer attention to how music conditions our daily lives, and feelings, you can use music as a tool to help your spiritual process in this chaotic, frantic, modern living.

The important components and power of this album are the meaning of the lyrics and the Kundalini frequencies of the voice. This is one of the reasons why this album can be so powerful in your life. Master Chrisms Kundalini put the songs together from start to finish.

It is capable to connect us to something greater than ourselves to our inner divinity and consequently, positively, affecting our spiritual development and quality of life.

𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲:

https://m.soundcloud.com/user-696984179/kundalini-sacred-music-preview

𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖:

•want more positive programming toward grace in your life

•want protection against negative entities and negativity

•want to receive shaktipat energy transmission via master Chrisms voice

•want to introduce more conditioning towards Kundalini into your life

•want to receive healing via the music put together by master Chrisms Kundalini

•want to receive many benefits of master Chrisms Kundalini sounds

•want to work towards a Kundalini activation if you don’t have it yet

•want a more Kundalini oriented lifestyle and routine

•want to learn about Kundalini safeties

𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:

•➤improved Kundalini lifestyle

•➤information on the Kundalini safeties

•➤ increased presence of grace in ones space

•➤a greater level of protection

•➤increased levels of Kundalini in one’s life and environment

•➤ Shaktipat energy reception via master Chrisms voice

•➤ greater peace and balance in one equation especially if the music is played frequently particularly overnight

Price: $15

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕 𝒈𝒐𝒆𝒔:

► You place your order by private messaging here or on the given email on the flyer

► You will make your payment via Pay Pal

► We will give you a Google Drive link where you can download the mp3 tracks plus the album cover with the song list and cd label

► You are free to upload the music on your smartphone device or burn a cd then print off the cover and label

► We suggest leaving the music on slightly playing in the background throughout the day and night if possible due to its many benefits within one’s Kundalini equation

𝗣𝗮𝘆 𝗽𝗮𝗹: 𝗰𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗹𝟯𝟲𝟵@𝘆𝗮𝗵𝗼𝗼.𝗰𝗼𝗺

𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆:

➤ Please note that in some cases the ego might resist certain information reception and application and this has nothing to do with the quality of the given service and guidance by master Chrism.

➤ The payment is non refundable. Part payment is available.

➤ This service is not for personal profit gain but for the support of this Kundalini community

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further information.

[swagkingdomcherryblossom]

Widex Hearing Aids in East Delhi – Try the Widex Magnify 30 RIC for Natural, Clear Hearing

Living with hearing loss can be challenging, but the right hearing aid can make all the difference. If you're looking for Widex hearing aids in East Delhi, you’re in the right place to discover a solution that fits your lifestyle, budget, and comfort. One of the best options currently available is the Widex Magnify 30 RIC — a reliable, advanced, and user-friendly hearing aid designed to help you reconnect with the sounds that matter.

Why Choose Widex?

Widex is one of the most innovative and respected names in the hearing aid industry. Known for their crystal-clear sound processing and stylish, comfortable designs, Widex hearing aids are designed to help you hear better in real-world situations — not just in quiet rooms.

Whether you're enjoying family time, attending a social function, or navigating a busy Delhi street, Widex ensures that your hearing remains as natural and sharp as possible.

Spotlight on the Widex Magnify 30 RIC

The Widex Magnify 30 RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) model is an ideal choice for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. It's especially great for those who are trying hearing aids for the first time but still want high-end features and modern design.

Key Features:

PureSound™ technology for clearer, more natural hearing

Intelligent sound processing that adapts to your environment

Compact RIC design for a comfortable and discreet fit

Rechargeable option available – eco-friendly and hassle-free

Bluetooth connectivity – stream calls and music directly from your phone

Learn more about this model and see if it suits your needs here: 👉 Widex Magnify 30 RIC – Hearing Mantra

Get Expert Hearing Care in East Delhi

Choosing a hearing aid is an important decision — but choosing the right provider is just as crucial. That’s why so many East Delhi residents trust Hearing Mantra. From comprehensive hearing tests to post-purchase support, Hearing Mantra offers complete care with a personal touch.

When you purchase your Widex hearing aids in East Delhi through Hearing Mantra, you get:

Free hearing evaluations by certified audiologists

Precise fittings and programming to match your hearing profile

Home trials and return options for peace of mind

Affordable pricing with EMI and offers

Continued support, servicing, and upgrades

Perfect for Everyday Delhi Life

Whether you’re navigating the vibrant sounds of Laxmi Nagar, enjoying morning walks in Preet Vihar, or attending a family gathering in Mayur Vihar, the Widex Magnify 30 RIC is built to adjust to every environment. Its smart noise reduction features help you focus on voices, not background clatter, making conversations easier and more enjoyable.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Don’t let hearing loss hold you back from living life to the fullest. Reconnect with the world around you — from conversations with loved ones to the simple joy of birds chirping in the park.

Click below to explore the Widex Magnify 30 RIC and begin your journey to better hearing: 🔗 https://hearingmantra.com/hearing-aid/widex/widex-magnify-30-ric/

Final Thoughts

Great hearing aids, expert care, and convenient service — all in your neighborhood. The Widex Magnify 30 RIC is a powerful yet affordable device for anyone seeking Widex hearing aids in East Delhi. With Hearing Mantra by your side, better hearing is just a click or consultation away.

[fionagill987-blog]

The Future of Cybersecurity in 2025: How Businesses Are Defending Against Evolving Digital Threats

Discover the top cybersecurity trends in 2025. Learn how AI, zero-trust models, and quantum-resistant encryption are transforming digital security across industries.

Introduction: The New Era of Cybersecurity

As the world becomes more digitally connected, cybersecurity has moved from a back-end concern to a front-line business priority. In 2025, threats are not only more sophisticated—they’re also more frequent, more expensive, and more disruptive.

From ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) to AI-powered phishing, cyberattacks have evolved into intelligent, persistent threats. Businesses of all sizes must adopt next-gen cybersecurity strategies to protect their data, customers, and reputation.

This article explores the key cybersecurity trends in 2025, the technologies reshaping digital defense, and how enterprises can stay secure in this high-risk environment.

1. AI and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity

SEO Keywords: AI in cybersecurity 2025, machine learning threat detection, predictive cyber defense

Artificial intelligence is a double-edged sword in cybersecurity. While hackers use AI to automate attacks, defenders are leveraging it for real-time threat detection and predictive risk management.

How AI Is Enhancing Cyber Defense:

Detects anomalies and suspicious behavior faster than humans

Flags threats across complex network environments

Learns from previous breaches to anticipate future risks

Automates threat response and patch management

Tools like Darktrace, CrowdStrike Falcon, and Microsoft Defender XDR are using AI to hunt threats before they strike.

Read Also; Unlocking Growth: Proven SEO Strategies for SaaS Businesses in 2025

2. The Rise of Zero Trust Architecture

SEO Keywords: zero trust cybersecurity model, zero trust 2025, perimeterless security

In 2025, the traditional “castle-and-moat” model of cybersecurity is dead. The new mantra? “Never trust, always verify.” This is the basis of the Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA).

Core Principles of Zero Trust:

Every user, device, and request must be verified

Access is granted based on least privilege

Continuous monitoring and authentication

Segmentation of networks and applications

Tech giants like Google (BeyondCorp) and Cisco are spearheading the implementation of zero-trust frameworks across enterprise networks.

3. Quantum-Resistant Encryption

Read Also; SEO Keywords: quantum computing threat, post-quantum cryptography, encryption 2025

With the rise of quantum computing, today’s encryption methods could become obsolete. In 2025, cybersecurity leaders are adopting quantum-resistant algorithms to prepare for what’s known as the "Q-Day"—the moment quantum computers can break RSA and ECC encryption.

Post-Quantum Security Features:

Lattice-based cryptography

NIST-approved quantum-safe algorithms

Hybrid encryption combining classical + quantum resistance

Organizations are starting to audit and upgrade their cryptographic systems now, before quantum attacks become reality.

Read Also; The Future of Cloud Computing: Trends and Innovations in 2025

4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Gets Smarter

SEO Keywords: adaptive MFA, biometric authentication, passwordless login 2025

Passwords are no longer enough. In 2025, multi-factor authentication (MFA) has evolved into adaptive, biometric, and context-aware security layers.

Modern MFA Trends:

Facial recognition and fingerprint scanning

Risk-based authentication (e.g., location, time, behavior)

Passkeys replacing passwords

Mobile push and hardware token verification

Companies like Okta, Auth0, and Duo Security are setting new standards in frictionless, secure access control.

5. The Human Element: Security Awareness Training

SEO Keywords: cybersecurity training 2025, phishing awareness, human error in cyber attacks

Despite all the tech advancements, humans remain the weakest link in cybersecurity. In 2025, companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity awareness training to reduce risks from insider threats, phishing, and social engineering.

Training Program Inclusions:

Simulated phishing attacks

Cyber hygiene basics

BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy enforcement

Crisis response roleplay

Platforms like KnowBe4, Cofense, and Hoxhunt provide interactive, AI-enhanced training to build a security-first culture.

6. Ransomware Evolves as a Service

SEO Keywords: ransomware trends 2025, ransomware-as-a-service, cybercrime business model

In 2025, ransomware is run like a SaaS business model. Criminal organizations now offer Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), allowing anyone with basic knowledge to launch sophisticated attacks.

Key Ransomware Trends:

Double extortion (data theft + encryption)

Targeting cloud services and remote workforces

Cryptocurrency-based ransom payments

RaaS kits sold on the dark web

Businesses must adopt robust backup strategies, endpoint protection, and employee vigilance to mitigate ransomware threats.

Read Also; Future Trends And Predictions To Watch In Software Development In 2025

7. Cloud Security Becomes Mission-Critical

SEO Keywords: cloud cybersecurity 2025, SaaS security, cloud-native security

The cloud is now the default IT infrastructure for most companies—but it comes with unique security challenges. In 2025, cloud security focuses on visibility, control, and shared responsibility.

Cloud Security Best Practices:

Implementing Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM)

Encrypting data at rest and in transit

Securing APIs and containers

Using cloud-native firewalls and monitoring tools

Leading tools like Palo Alto Prisma Cloud, Wiz, and Lacework are helping companies secure multi-cloud environments more effectively.

8. Regulatory Compliance and Privacy Laws Tighten

SEO Keywords: data privacy laws 2025, cybersecurity compliance, GDPR, DPDP Act India

Governments worldwide are strengthening data privacy regulations. In 2025, companies must navigate a complex landscape of compliance laws or risk heavy penalties.

Major Compliance Frameworks:

GDPR (Europe) and ePrivacy Regulation

CCPA/CPRA (California, USA)

India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP)

ISO/IEC 27001 and NIST frameworks

Organizations must invest in compliance automation, regular audits, and secure data practices to stay within legal boundaries.

9. Securing the Internet of Things (IoT)

SEO Keywords: IoT security 2025, smart device hacking, IoT vulnerability protection

In 2025, there are over 75 billion connected devices—from smart homes to industrial control systems. But each device is a potential vulnerability if not secured properly.

IoT Security Strategies:

Network segmentation for IoT devices

Regular firmware updates

AI-powered device anomaly detection

Mandatory device authentication

With the rise of smart cities and Industry 4.0, IoT security is no longer optional—it’s critical infrastructure protection.

10. Cybersecurity as a Business Differentiator

SEO Keywords: cybersecurity brand trust, security-first companies, cyber risk management

Consumers in 2025 choose brands they can trust with their data. Strong cybersecurity practices are now seen as a competitive advantage, not just IT overhead.

Read Also; Scientists Used AI to Resurrect the Dire Wolf’s Last Roar – You Won’t Believe What It Revealed!

Reputation-Boosting Cyber Measures:

Public bug bounty programs

Transparent data handling policies

Cyber insurance and public risk management

Incident response readiness and communication

Companies like Apple, Proton, and Signal have built trust by prioritizing user privacy and security in their business models.

Conclusion: Cybersecurity in 2025 Is Proactive, Not Reactive

Cybersecurity in 2025 is not just about installing firewalls and antivirus—it’s a strategic, company-wide discipline. AI, zero trust, quantum resistance, and cloud-native defenses are reshaping how we protect digital assets.

The organizations that invest in security innovation, training, and resilience will not only prevent attacks but also win customer trust and stay ahead of regulations.

[larawaresolutions]

Easy AEPS API Setup for Your Business

FintechByLaraware

The Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) is an NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) initiative that allows Aadhaar cardholders to perform basic banking transactions using biometric authentication. AEPS eliminates the need for traditional banking methods like debit cards, credit cards, and passwords, making financial services accessible to rural and urban populations alike.

An AEPS API is a bridge that connects businesses, retailers, and banking institutions to the AEPS system, allowing them to offer banking services such as:

Cash Withdrawals

Balance Inquiries

Mini Statements

Aadhaar to Aadhaar Fund Transfers

Micro ATM Transactions

By integrating an AEPS API, businesses can expand their services and enable seamless financial transactions for their customers.

Why AEPS is Essential for Businesses & Fintech Startups?

The AEPS model is particularly beneficial for fintech startups, retail businesses, banking service providers, and microfinance institutions. Here’s why:

1. Financial Inclusion

AEPS helps in bridging the gap between traditional banking and underbanked populations, providing secure banking solutions to rural areas where physical bank branches are scarce.

2. Cashless Transactions & Digital Economy Growth

With AEPS, users can perform transactions without the need for cash or cards, contributing to India's digital economy growth.

3. Secure & Fraud-Proof Transactions

Since AEPS requires Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, the chances of fraud and unauthorized transactions are minimized.

4. Low Transaction Costs

AEPS transactions are more cost-effective than traditional banking services, making it a preferred choice for businesses looking to reduce operational expenses.

5. Business Expansion & Revenue Growth

Retailers and business owners can integrate AEPS services to generate additional revenue by offering withdrawal and banking services to their customers.

Features of LaraWare’s AEPS API

LaraWare provides a robust AEPS API that ensures smooth and secure banking transactions. Here’s what makes it stand out:

1. Fast & Secure Transactions

LaraWare’s AEPS API is designed to process transactions quickly while maintaining high security standards through biometric authentication.

2. Easy Integration

With simple documentation and developer-friendly APIs, LaraWare ensures a hassle-free integration process for businesses of all sizes.

3. Real-Time Settlement

The API supports instant transaction processing, ensuring users can withdraw cash or check their balances in real time.

4. Comprehensive Dashboard & Reporting

LaraWare offers a powerful dashboard to track transactions, settlements, and real-time analytics, helping businesses stay on top of their finances.

5. High Uptime & Reliability

With a robust infrastructure, LaraWare ensures that businesses experience minimal downtime, allowing them to provide uninterrupted services.

6. Multi-Bank Support

The AEPS API seamlessly connects with multiple banks, enabling users to perform transactions from various banking institutions.

7. PCI DSS & RBI Compliant

LaraWare follows industry security standards, ensuring compliance with PCI DSS, RBI guidelines, and NPCI regulations to protect user data.

How to Integrate LaraWare’s AEPS API?

Integrating LaraWare’s AEPS API into your business is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Register & Get API Credentials

Sign up on LaraWare’s platform to receive your API credentials, authentication keys, and documentation.

Step 2: Set Up API on Your Platform

Developers can use LaraWare’s API documentation to integrate the AEPS functionality into the business’s existing platform or mobile app.

Step 3: Biometric Device Configuration

Connect the AEPS API with biometric devices (such as Mantra, Morpho, or Startek) for fingerprint authentication.

[mark-devon]

Elevating Your Online Presence: Unleashing the Potential of Your Websites with Octopus Digital Network

/ MarketingGet the Best Website Development Service From No.1. Company

In the sprawling digital landscape of the 21st century. Where the relentless waves of innovation continue to reshape the contours of business. A company’s virtual abode, its website, remains an omnipotent facet. To harness the true potential of the digital domain, companies today require the prowess of a digital virtuoso. Enter Octopus Digital Network, a harbinger of transformation and empowerment in the realm of websites.

Octopus Digital Network, with its nimble fingers navigating the vast seas of the internet. Possesses the prowess to catapult your website into the echelons of excellence. A mere existence in the digital abyss will not suffice; one must ascend. With alacrity and finesse, towards a crescendo of online influence. This is the mantra that Octopus Digital Network swears by.

Resplendent Websites: Crafting an Aesthetic Marvel

The essence of Octopus Digital Network lies in its profound ability to orchestrate a symphony of aesthetics on the canvas of your website. No longer shall your digital representation languish in the mundane. Octopus Digital Network shall drape it in the opulent garb of uniqueness. It’s not just about websites; it’s about crafting digital masterpieces.

Octopus Digital Network is adept at infusing your websites with a mélange of enigmatic elements. From ethereal color palettes to beguiling typography, it adorns your website with a veneer of sophistication that mesmerizes visitors. This, my friends, is the art of leaving an indelible mark.

Strategic Navigation: The Lighthouse of Success

In the tumultuous sea of websites, navigation is the compass that guides the lost. Octopus Digital Network employs avant-garde strategies to ensure that visitors traverse your website’s labyrinth with ease. With a user-centric approach, it transforms your website into an intuitive masterpiece, where every click is a voyage of discovery.

The digital arena is fierce, and it’s not enough to merely beckon visitors. They must be captivated, enticed, and propelled towards conversion. Octopus Digital Network excels in crafting compelling call-to-actions that are irresistible sirens. Drawing users into the heart of your digital domain.

Engaging Content: The Elixir of User Engagement

In the kingdom of websites, content reigns supreme. Octopus Digital Network understands the value of words, and it weaves narratives that are nothing short of enchanting. Each word is a brushstroke on the canvas of your website. Creating a tapestry that’s rich in both information and emotion.

With the adept use of storytelling, Octopus Digital Network transforms mundane information into riveting tales that keep users hooked. The power of words is harnessed to create a magnetic pull, ensuring that visitors linger. Explore, and eventually convert into loyal patrons.

Dynamic Responsiveness: Adapting to the Digital Tides

In this age of multi-device usage, a website’s adaptability is its armor. Octopus Digital Network ensures that your website is not a static entity but a chameleon that seamlessly adjusts to the screens of various dimensions. It’s the embodiment of the phrase “responsive web design.”

The company employs cutting-edge technology to ensure that your website is as stunning on a smartphone as it is on a desktop. It’s a commitment to accessibility, ensuring that your message reaches every corner of the digital world.

SEO Sorcery: Conquering the Digital Serpent

In the dense jungle of the internet, where countless websites vie for attention, visibility is paramount. Octopus Digital Network wields the mighty sword of (SEO) to ensure that your website emerges triumphant in the battle for search engine supremacy.

Through meticulous keyword research, on-page optimization, and white-hat link-building techniques, Octopus Digital Network propels your website to the coveted pinnacle of search engine results. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about being seen first.

The Octopus Effect: Unleashing the Power of Synergy

Much like the remarkable creature it is named after, Octopus Digital Network has tentacles that reach into every corner of the digital ocean. It doesn’t view websites in isolation but as integral parts of a vast ecosystem. The power of synergy is harnessed to connect your website to social media, email marketing, and other digital channels, creating a formidable network that amplifies your online presence.

In conclusion, the digital realm is a dynamic arena where mediocrity is swiftly devoured by the tides of innovation. To stand tall amidst the competition, one must have a partner that possesses the vision and expertise to elevate websites. From mere existence to digital eminence. Octopus Digital Network, with its artistic finesse, strategic acumen, and technological prowess, is the beacon that illuminates the path to online success.

Elevate your website; entrust it to Octopus Digital Network, and watch as it transforms into a digital masterpiece that resonates with your audience and propels your business to unparalleled heights in the ever-evolving world of websites. It’s time to seize the digital stage and command the attention your brand truly deserves.

Heading: Octopus Digital Network: Pinnacle of Website Development Services

Subheading: Elevating Digital Excellence through Unparalleled Expertise

In the ever-evolving sphere of website development services, Octopus Digital Network emerges as the unrivaled paragon. Pioneering a transformative journey, this company stands as an epitome of digital craftsmanship and innovation.

Subheading: Innovative Ingenuity Unleashed

At Octopus Digital Network, ingenuity transcends conventional boundaries. With an array of avant-garde techniques and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, the company elevates website development to an art form.

Subheading: Exquisite Aesthetics: A Digital Renaissance

Octopus Digital Network’s virtuosity lies in its ability to orchestrate a digital renaissance. Crafting websites that are not mere digital entities but exquisite digital masterpieces, adorned with opulent elements that captivate and mesmerize.

Subheading: User-Centric Navigation Mastery

Navigating through the turbulent seas of the internet, Octopus Digital Network serves as the guiding lighthouse. Through its innovative and user-centric approach, it transforms websites into intuitive masterpieces, ensuring that every click is a voyage of discovery.

Subheading: Content Alchemy: Enchanting Narratives

In the kingdom of websites, content reigns supreme. Octopus Digital Network, armed with the power of words, weaves enchanting narratives that transform mundane information into riveting tales, keeping users enraptured and engaged.

Subheading: Responsive Brilliance: Adapting Seamlessly

Octopus Digital Network doesn’t settle for static digital entities; it engineers responsive marvels that seamlessly adapt to screens of all dimensions, a testament to their commitment to accessibility and digital inclusivity.

Subheading: SEO Sorcery: Conquering the Digital Realm

In the vast digital jungle, visibility is paramount. Octopus Digital Network employs meticulous keyword research, on-page optimization, and cutting-edge SEO techniques, propelling your website to the coveted pinnacle of search engine results.

Subheading: The Power of Synergy: Expanding Horizons

Octopus Digital Network operates with the synergy akin to its namesake creature, extending its tentacles into the far reaches of the digital ocean. By connecting websites to social media, email marketing, and other digital channels, it creates a formidable network that amplifies your online presence to unprecedented heights.

Subheading: Your Path to Digital Eminence

In a dynamic digital landscape, Octopus Digital Network transcends mediocrity, transforming websites from mere existence to digital eminence. Trust them to illuminate the path to online success, where your brand seizes the digital stage and commands the attention it truly deserves.

[garmentsmantraadv]

The Seamless Thread

In the bustling city of Kolkata, where tradition met modernity, there stood a garment manufacturing company named Vibrant Threads. Established over two decades ago, it was a business that had grown steadily, weaving intricate designs and stitching dreams for fashion enthusiasts across the globe. Despite their growth, however, the company struggled with a common challenge: managing their vast inventory efficiently.

Vibrant Threads had a sprawling warehouse, filled with bolts of fabric, spools of thread, buttons, zippers, and finished garments stacked high on shelves. With such a large inventory, there were constant hiccups. Orders would get delayed, raw materials were sometimes lost in the shuffle, and finished products often sat in storage longer than necessary. The manual tracking system that the company used had become outdated and error-prone. Employees would spend hours searching for items, updating spreadsheets, and counting inventory. Mistakes were made, and every error had a ripple effect, from delays in production to unhappy customers.

One day, Rajeev, the company’s Operations Manager, had had enough. He stood in the middle of the warehouse, surrounded by stacks of fabric and piles of paperwork. He realized something had to change, and quickly. It was time to modernize. But how?

Rajeev had heard about ERP software—enterprise resource planning tools that could integrate all aspects of business operations into a unified system. After some research and discussions with his team, Rajeev made the bold decision to implement an ERP system specifically designed for inventory management.

He reached out to Garments Mantra, a solution tailored for garment manufacturers, offering a streamlined way to track inventory, automate reordering, and provide real-time insights. It promised to bring an end to the chaotic and time-consuming manual processes. Though sceptical at first, Rajeev was excited by the potential of the software to solve the company’s inventory woes.

The Transformation Begins

The implementation of Garments Mantra ERP was a pivotal moment for Vibrant Threads. Unlike generic ERP systems, Garments Mantra ERP was specifically designed for garment manufacturers, equipped with all the tools and features needed to streamline operations and optimize efficiency. Understanding the unique challenges of the textile industry, the ERP system was tailored to Vibrant Threads’ exact requirements.

The Garments Mantra ERP team worked closely with Vibrant threads Stack holder to integrate the system into every part of the business—from production management and sales order tracking to customer service. A specialized inventory management module was added, allowing the company to manage not just finished garments but every individual bolt of fabric, spool of thread, and button.

Step 1: Real-time Stock Tracking  The ERP system automatically tracked stock levels, updated inventory after every purchase and sale, and provided real-time information about which materials were running low. Rajeev no longer had to rely on spreadsheets or walk around the warehouse to count the items manually. Everything was tracked digitally, reducing human errors and ensuring that no material was ever out of stock unexpectedly.

Step 2: Automated Reordering  Gone were the days of running out of critical raw materials. The system was set to automatically reorder fabric or accessories when stock reached a pre-set threshold. The software even tracked supplier lead times, so Rajeev could plan production schedules more efficiently, ensuring that no time was wasted waiting for materials to arrive.

Step 3: Efficient Warehouse Management  With the software’s inventory categorization, Rajeev could now see where every piece of inventory was located in the warehouse, whether it was a batch of fabric, an unfinished garment, or a completed order ready for shipment. Items were tagged and barcoded, and employees could use handheld devices to scan and update stock locations in real-time. No more searching for misplaced materials or wasting hours in the warehouse.

The First Test – The New Collection Launch

As the day of the new collection launch approached, Rajeev watched the magic unfold. The production team, equipped with the ERP system, had no trouble tracking the stages of garment creation. The fabric rolls were cut, sewn, and stitched into dresses with remarkable efficiency. Finished garments were immediately recorded in the system, and once an order was placed, the ERP system alerted the shipping team, ensuring a timely dispatch.

The Results:

Faster Order Fulfilment: The dresses were completed, packed, and shipped faster than ever before. Customers received their orders on time, with minimal errors in the order fulfilment process.

Optimized Stock Levels: The company no longer had to overstock or face stockouts, thanks to real-time data that optimized the supply chain and inventory levels.

Cost Savings: By reducing excess stock and cutting down on lost materials, Vibrant Threads saw a noticeable reduction in storage costs. Additionally, automated reordering prevented unnecessary emergency purchases at inflated prices.

Better Decision-Making: Rajeev could now use the ERP system’s analytics to make informed decisions about which products to manufacture more of, which materials to buy in bulk, and how to forecast demand for future seasons.

A New Era for Vibrant Threads

Rajeev’s decision to integrate ERP software into the inventory management process transformed Vibrant Threads. The company’s growth soared as they could now meet customer demands with precision and speed, without the constant headaches of mismanaged stock.

Rajeev stood in the warehouse one final time, watching as workers effortlessly managed inventory with the new ERP system. It was a far cry from the chaos of the past, and for the first time in years, there was peace.

"Technology really does thread everything together," Rajeev thought, smiling to himself.

From that day forward, Vibrant Threads never looked back. Thanks to the Garments Mantra ERP software, they were not just managing inventory—they were mastering it, and their business was sewing the fabric of success, one thread at a time.

Moral of the Story:

In the fast-paced world of garment manufacturing, managing inventory efficiently can make or break a business. ERP software acts as the thread that binds every aspect of the business together, from production to sales, ensuring that materials, time, and money are used efficiently, ultimately leading to business growth and success.

For more details on how ERP can revolutionize your business, contact Garments Mantra at Room No.1, 3rd Floor, 1/3, Block D, Bangur Avenue, Kolkata - 700055, or reach us via email at hello@garmentsmantra.com or call 9038730055.

[cogniitec]

How to Improve Your Google Rankings with Expert SEO Tactics

In the modern digital era, establishing a robust online presence is essential for any business aiming to succeed. With millions of websites competing for attention, improving your Google rankings is key to standing out from the crowd. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of strategically improving your website’s visibility on search engine results pages (SERPs). Let’s dive into proven expert SEO tactics that can help boost your rankings and drive more organic traffic to your site.

Digital Marketing Company in Coimbatore

1. Optimize Your Website for Keywords

Keywords remain the cornerstone of effective SEO. Begin with thorough keyword research to identify phrases your target audience uses to find products or services similar to yours. Leverage tools such as Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush to identify keywords with high search volume and low competition.

After creating your list, thoughtfully integrate these keywords into:

Page titles

Meta descriptions

Headers (H1, H2, etc.)

Image alt texts

URL structures

Avoid overloading content with keywords, as it can harm your search rankings. Instead, focus on creating natural, engaging content that seamlessly integrates your chosen keywords.

2. Create High-Quality, Engaging Content

Google rewards websites that offer valuable, relevant content. The mantra “content is king” still holds true. Develop blog posts, articles, videos, and other content that addresses your audience’s pain points and provides solutions.

Tips for better content:

Write long-form content that thoroughly covers topics (typically 1,000+ words).

Use engaging headlines that spark curiosity.

Incorporate multimedia like images, infographics, and videos to enrich user experience.

Update your content regularly to keep it fresh and relevant.

3. Improve Your Website’s User Experience (UX)

Google takes user experience seriously when ranking websites. A well-structured, easy-to-navigate site keeps visitors engaged and reduces bounce rates, which can positively impact your SEO.

Key elements for good UX:

Fast loading times: Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to identify performance issues.

Mobile responsiveness: Ensure your site is fully optimized for mobile devices.

Clear navigation: Create a logical menu structure with clear calls to action.

Readable content: Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and plenty of white space.

Digital Marketing Company in Coimbatore

4. Build Quality Backlinks

Backlinks from authoritative websites act as votes of confidence for your content. They signal to Google that your site is trustworthy and valuable.

Tactics to earn backlinks:

Develop shareable content like infographics and in-depth guides.

Connect with industry influencers and bloggers to promote and share your content.

Guest post on reputable websites in your niche.

Use broken link building by finding dead links on other sites and suggesting your content as a replacement.

Remember, quality trumps quantity when it comes to backlinks. A few links from authoritative domains are more impactful than dozens from low-quality sites.

5. Optimize for On-Page SEO

On-page SEO involves optimizing each page to enhance its ranking. Pay attention to these essential elements:

Title Tags: Keep titles under 60 characters and include your primary keyword.

Meta Descriptions: Write compelling meta descriptions that encourage clicks, including your target keyword.

Internal Linking: Connect related content within your site to enhance navigation and boost SEO.

Alt Text for Images: Describe images using keywords to improve accessibility and rankings.

6. Leverage Local SEO (If Applicable)

If you run a local business, optimizing for local SEO is crucial. Ensure your business is listed on Google My Business and other directories. Consistency in your name, address, and phone number (NAP) across listings is key.

Additional local SEO tips:

Gather positive customer reviews.

Use location-specific keywords.

Create content tailored to your local audience.

7. Utilize Analytics and Track Performance

Regularly monitoring your SEO performance helps identify what works and what doesn’t. Leverage tools such as Google Analytics and Google Search Console to monitor:

Organic traffic

Keyword rankings

Bounce rates

Click-through rates (CTR)

Analyzing these metrics enables you to fine-tune your strategies and achieve better results over time.

Digital Marketing Agency in Coimbatore

Conclusion

Improving your Google rankings requires a combination of technical expertise, content creation, and ongoing optimization. By implementing these expert SEO tactics, you can boost your visibility, attract more organic traffic, and ultimately grow your business. Remember, SEO is a long-term investment, but with consistency and the right strategies, you’ll see lasting success.

[trenttrendspotter]

2025 Trends

The wellness world in 2025 is experiencing a shake up. From skincare that actually feels good to guilt-free snacks, recovery as a lifestyle, and AI-powered shopping that knows you better than you know yourself, the future is looking bold, balanced, and seriously innovative.

Curious about what else is on the horizon? Let's just say your pantry, beauty routine, and even your drink choices are about to get a major upgrade.

Read more about these trends that are going to change everything.

We should know!  As the first PR firm to focus on wellness, we’re not just looking back at the last year, we’re reflecting on the past three decades.  There isn’t a major health trend impacting the 21st century that Trent’s hasn’t been a part of. 

Talk to us about finding your wellness factor and sparking a trend of your own in 2025.

SKINCARE WITHOUT THE STING

Skincare in 2025 is shedding its painful reputation. Consumers are embracing gentle yet effective solutions, prioritizing cruelty-free, vegan, and hypoallergenic options. Ingredients like bakuchiol are emerging as heroes, offering restorative benefits without irritation. “Wince-free” and soothing post-treatment products are also gaining momentum as self-care evolves to be more comforting and accessible.

STATEMENT SNACKING

Guilt-free indulgence is the mantra for 2025. Brands are perfecting sweets and snacks made with natural sugars, protein boosts, and functional ingredients with regenerative farming. Expect innovations like adaptogenic chocolate bars, gut-friendly gummy snacks, and nutrient-packed superfood snacks. These products prove you can satisfy cravings without sacrificing health goals.

SUPERCHARGED PANTRY STAPLES

The once-humble condiment aisle is a nutritional goldmine in 2025. Canned fish high in omega-3s, antioxidant-packed sauces, fermented spreads, top-quality extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar of Modena are adding depth to diets while simplifying home cooking. Pantry staples are no longer just shelf-fillers—they’re powerhouses of hidden nutrition. These easy-to-use essentials are helping consumers infuse their diets with super nutrients in a convenient and sustainable way.

ANCIENT HEALING, MODERN TWISTS

Ancient crystal healing practices are finding their way into modern routines. Think gemstone-infused candles, therapeutic salt baths, native acorn oil and luxury spa treatments backed by celebrity endorsements. Crystal therapy, once niche, is now a mainstream wellness trend, combining mysticism with science to offer relaxation, balance, and even skin benefits.

RECOVERY OUTPACES FITNESS 

In 2025, recovery is the real fitness trend. Recovery is no longer a post-workout afterthought—it’s a lifestyle. Tools like compression gear, infrared therapy, and massage devices are becoming household staples. Recovery routines are less about bouncing back from injury and more about proactive wellness, as consumers realize the importance of rest, repair, and optimization at home. Wellness brands are reframing recovery as an essential part of overall health.

BIOHACKING LOSES ITS INTIMIDATION 

The once-intimidating world of biohacking is becoming user-friendly. Wearable tech and easy-to-follow programs are empowering people to track sleep, stress, and nutrition effortlessly. The focus is on small, manageable tweaks that deliver big health benefits without the complexity. In 2025, biohacking is about optimizing your health without the overwhelming science, offering straightforward solutions for everyday people.

THE RISE OF MENOPRENEURS

Women in midlife are seizing the spotlight in 2025, creating solutions tailored to their needs. From menopause-specific wellness products to career networks, menopreneurs are addressing this underserved demographic with empathy and innovation, becoming a dominant force in business. Their ventures are reshaping perceptions around aging and opportunity, creating products and services tailored to this underserved demographic and addressing everything from hormonal balance to empowerment in the workplace.

KIOSK AND AI POWERED SHOPPING

From food and beauty to fitness and health—and even greeting cards—kiosks are taking over in 2025. These self-service hubs cater to the grab-and-go consumer, offering everything from smoothie blends and skincare to custom vitamin packs and fitness recovery tools. They combine convenience with customization, becoming the ultimate touchpoint for busy lifestyles.  AI is enhancing every aspect of the shopping experience, offering tailored recommendations, virtual try-ons, and hyper-personalized customer journeys, including fragrance sniff tests. With AI integration in both e-commerce and physical stores, shopping is becoming faster, smarter, and entirely frictionless.

BEVERAGES BATTLE FOR THIRST

The beverage aisle has become a battleground of endless choices, catering to every conceivable need, desire, and trend. Whether it's hydration, energy, relaxation, enhanced nutrition, or just indulgent taste, there’s a drink for every moment of your day—and every corner of your personality. This overpopulated space showcases everything from functional beverages promising better sleep or sharper focus to artisanal teas inspired by the Blue Zones, where people live the longest and healthiest lives. Healthier colas are reimagining the classics, while fruit juices now come spiked with global flavors like chamoy, turning tradition into an adventure.Water isn’t just water anymore—it’s a spectrum, from luxury brands infused with rare minerals and sought-after TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) to affordable yet innovative options.

[swagkingdomcherryblossom]

Hear Life Loud and Clear with Starkey Hearing Aids in East Delhi

Imagine hearing every word of a loved one’s conversation, catching the honk of a rickshaw just in time, or enjoying the quiet hum of the evening breeze — all without straining or guessing. If you're in East Delhi and struggling with hearing loss, Starkey hearing aids might be exactly what you need to reconnect with life’s beautiful sounds.

Known for innovation, intelligent design, and patient-first technology, Starkey Hearing Aids in East Delhi are transforming the hearing experience for thousands. Whether you live in Preet Vihar, Shahdara, or Mayur Vihar, there’s a smart solution nearby — tailored just for you.

Why Choose Starkey?

Starkey is one of the leading American hearing aid manufacturers, respected for introducing AI-powered hearing aids, health tracking features, and discreet designs. It’s not just about amplifying sound; Starkey’s mission is to make hearing aids smarter, more connected, and in tune with how we live today.

Key Features of Starkey Hearing Aids:

Edge Mode AI™: One-touch sound adjustments using artificial intelligence

Health Monitoring: Some models track steps, brain activity, and even detect falls

Rechargeable Convenience: Wireless charging docks and all-day battery life

Tinnitus Technology: Soothing relief for those experiencing constant ear ringing

Bluetooth Streaming: Seamless connection with phones, TVs, and other smart devices

From daily office meetings to family celebrations in the heart of East Delhi, Starkey hearing aids adapt quickly and intelligently — giving you confidence and clarity in any situation.

Where to Buy Starkey Hearing Aids in East Delhi?

Whether you're new to hearing aids or looking to upgrade, East Delhi is home to several trusted providers who specialize in Starkey products.

✅ Hearing Mantra – Multi-Brand Expert in Delhi NCR

Although Hearing Mantra is popularly known for offering Widex devices — like the Widex Magnify 30 RIC — they also support clients exploring Starkey, Signia, Phonak, and other top-tier brands. The advantage? You can compare different brands under one roof, with expert guidance and custom fitting.

✅ Starkey Partner Clinics in East Delhi

You can also find authorized Starkey dealers and clinics throughout East Delhi — from Anand Vihar to Nirman Vihar. These centers provide:

Comprehensive hearing evaluations

Personalized consultations

Free trial of select Starkey models

EMI options and aftercare services

Starkey vs. Widex: How Do They Compare?

If you're torn between choosing Starkey or another top brand like Widex, here's a quick comparison to help you decide: FeatureStarkeyWidexTechnologyAI-powered Sound, Health SensorsNatural Sound with TruAcoustics™Rechargeable OptionsYesYesTinnitus ReliefYes (Advanced Sound Therapy)Yes (With Soothing Sound Profiles)App SupportThrive Hearing Control AppWidex Moment AppPrice RangeMid to PremiumEntry to Premium

The Widex Magnify 30 RIC, for example, is a fantastic choice for those who want solid performance, comfort, and affordability. It’s especially recommended for first-time users or individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss looking for a no-fuss digital solution.

Why East Delhi Is Ideal for Hearing Care

East Delhi has become a growing hub for accessible healthcare — and hearing care is no exception. With a wide network of clinics, modern audiology labs, and home visit services, residents in areas like IP Extension, Krishna Nagar, and Vivek Vihar are turning to local specialists for personalized hearing aid solutions.

Here’s what makes East Delhi a great place for hearing aid users:

Local, trusted clinics offering major global brands including Starkey

Flexible service options like home hearing tests and tele-audiology

Affordable packages with EMI and free consultation options

Culturally sensitive care — with multilingual audiologists who truly listen

What to Expect at a Starkey Hearing Aid Appointment

Thinking of trying Starkey hearing aids in East Delhi? Here's a simple breakdown of what your first clinic visit might look like:

Initial Consultation: You'll discuss hearing concerns, lifestyle needs, and expectations.

Hearing Evaluation: Audiologists perform painless hearing tests to measure your sound range.

Product Demo: Try Starkey and other recommended brands (like Widex) to see what fits you best.

Fitting & Programming: Once you’ve chosen a model, it will be custom-programmed to match your hearing profile.

Training & Aftercare: Learn how to use your device, and get support on battery care, app control, and troubleshooting.

Bonus Tip: Affordable Alternatives Worth Considering

If Starkey’s premium models stretch your budget, don't worry — there are excellent alternatives available. One such example is the Widex Magnify 30 RIC. This discreet, feature-packed model offers:

Clear sound processing

Direct smartphone connectivity

Comfortable behind-the-ear design

Tinnitus relief features — all at a budget-friendly price point.

It’s a great place to start if you want quality and performance without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to accept hearing loss as just a part of growing older. With smart, adaptable technology like Starkey hearing aids in East Delhi, you can rediscover conversations, music, laughter, and all the small sounds that bring life joy and meaning.

[embraystechnologies]

The Importance of Mobile-First Design

Unlock the Future of Web Design: Why Mobile-First is the Key to Winning Online

In today's fast-paced digital world, prioritizing mobile-first design has become a non-negotiable for businesses aiming to thrive online. Since mobile devices account for more than 50% of global web traffic, designing for the mobile user first improves the user experience and boosts SEO ranking. Becoming a champion of mobile-first design could be what your business needs to remain above the competition in a growing market. Let's dive into why it matters and how it can change your digital strategy.

 What is Mobile-First Design?

Mobile-first design involves designing the mobile version of the website before the desktop version. This approach ensures that the user experience will be seamless on smaller screens, which are more challenging to build due to limited space. Focusing on mobile-first design can help businesses address the most serious issues in terms of usability and ensure that their websites are accessible and functional to most of their audience.

 Why Mobile-First Design Emphasizes Good User Experience

1. Ease of Navigation:

It uses mobile-first design to optimize navigation, text readability, and interactions when displayed on a smaller screen. Features include collapsible menus, touch-friendly buttons, and intuitive layouts, which make the site more engaging.

2. Faster Load Times:

In mobile-first design, the lightest things are built first, which helps retain loading times. Quick-loading websites enhance user engagement and increase SEO ranking, as search engines favor such sites.

3. Consistency across devices:

 Starting from the mobile ensures that the design scales well to larger screens. This builds trust and positively affects user experience regardless of the device the customer uses.

 Mobile-First Design and SEO

Google's mobile-first indexing means that search engines increasingly rely upon the mobile version of your site for ranking determinations. If your mobile site is optimized well, it will positively impact your visibility even though your desktop site is excellent.

Here's how mobile-first design boosts SEO:

- Better Rankings: More mobile-friendly sites rank higher in search results.

- Bounce Rates are lowered: Optimized mobile experiences keep people on your site for a more extended period.

- Accessibility is high: Mobile-first design allows for the most suitable engagement by targeting on-the-go users.

 Key Features of Mobile-First Design

1. Responsive Design:

It should work well on many screen sizes while maintaining functionality and aesthetics.

2. Less is More:

   In mobile-first design, the mantra is less is more. Focus on relevant content and clear calls to action to avoid overwhelming the users.

3. Touch-Friendly Elements:

   Your buttons, forms, and other interactive elements need to be large enough to be tapped without error.

4. Fast Loading Speed:

Compress images, write efficient code, and tap into caching for better performance.

 Conclusion

This is no longer an optional practice but a necessity in business operations. Mobile-first design opens the road to long-term success by improving the user experience and search engine optimization performance. 

Combining our cutting-edge web development skills with profound knowledge of user behavior, we at Embrays Technologies deliver websites that live up to and exceed expectations.

Explore our services at Embrays Technologies and know how we can help you embrace the mobile-first revolution.

[neenuasokan]

Mantra IT Solutions: Web Design Company in Ernakulam

At Mantra IT Solutions, we are dedicated to delivering top-quality websites that not only look great but also drive traffic, conversions, and sales for your business. As a leading Web Design Company in Kochi, we combine over a decade of experience in online marketing and web development to create professional, custom websites tailored to your unique business needs. Our team of skilled digital experts and web designers is committed to building responsive and SEO-friendly websites that offer user-friendly navigation and engaging content designs. We understand the importance of having a website that performs well on all devices, which is why we ensure that your site looks good and functions seamlessly across mobile, tablet, and desktop interfaces.

Choosing Mantra IT Solutions as your Web Design Company in Ernakulam means partnering with a team that is constantly innovating to help your business stand out in the competitive digital landscape. Our dynamic and responsive website designs give your business a competitive edge, enhancing your online presence and ensuring that your brand reaches a wider audience. As a leading Web Design Company in Kerala, we take pride in creating unique, SEO-friendly websites that make it easy for search engines to crawl and understand your content, ultimately improving your visibility in search engine results. Don't just take our word for it—see what our satisfied customers have to say about our exceptional web development services. Let us help you put your best foot forward on the internet and grow your business with a website that truly makes an impact.