#Marketing Strategies for Mining Companies

[gandhitechnowebsolutions]

Digital Marketing Strategies for Mining Companies

Promoting mining businesses online is a massive endeavour. The mining industry contracts agencies specialising in digital marketing.

[helloitstsyu]

The Night We Met | Tom Cruise

Fantasize Series Chapter 6 | Previous Part | Fantasize Masterlist

You wait for him.

Day after day. Hour after hour. In all the quietest corners of your house-where he used to linger. The patio, where sunlight once kissed his skin. The poolside, where his eyes had once followed you like you were the only thing that moved. Near your father's study. By the breakfast table, where he'd pretend not to watch you but always did.

You wait.

But he never comes.

Not even a shadow down the hallway. Not a knock on your bedroom door. Not a missed call. Not a single text. No explanation. No goodbye.

Nothing.

And that hurts more than an ending ever could. Because at least endings are clean. At least endings give you something to hold, even if it's grief. This?

This is silence. This is erasure. This is being unchosen without the dignity of a word.

You're left with only the ghost of him. The way he looked at you in that dark closet. The way his voice cracked when he whispered, "You're mine." The way his hands trembled like they didn't know how to let go.

It replays like static. Over and over. Until you start to wonder if you imagined it all.

You spiral. Quietly. Shamefully.

Eventually, you cave.

"Dad," you ask one morning, like the question isn't everything. "Are you still making that movie with Cruise?"

Your father doesn't even look up from his phone. "Yeah, of course..... Why?"

Your heart jolts-hope, stupid and raw. "Oh. Just... You never had meetings with him again." You try to make it seamless.

"No, I still see him all the time," your father says casually. Then, like twisting a dull knife, he adds, "In fact, I'm meeting him now."

You blink. "N-Now? He's coming here?"

"No, not here. I'm heading to the office."

Right. Of course.

Not here.

Never here.

You force a nod. "Oh."

Like it's fine. Like it doesn't feel like being slapped. Like it doesn't carve something out of you.

He's still in L.A.

He just isn't in your L.A.

He's here-but not for you.

And that's worse than if he'd left. Because it means he's making the choice. Every day. To stay away.

You try to bury it. Bury him.

You tell yourself it was nothing. That you were nothing.

The janitor’s closet. The way he held you like prayer and punishment. The way he breathed you in like he'd never get the chance again.

Nothing.

The way his voice broke when he said, "You're mine, you're fucking mine."

A lie.

You tell yourself that lie so often, you start to almost believe it.

Almost.

But then night comes.

And he invades your dreams. Violently. Relentlessly. Starting from the night you met him. Like your subconscious doesn't give a damn about dignity.

You wake up breathless, clawing at sheets. Heart pounding. The phantom of his touch still burning on your skin. You hear his voice in the dark-low, possessive, ruined.

And when the silence creeps back in, it brings with it the truth: you miss him. In ways that don't feel survivable.

So you work.

You drown in it.

You throw yourself into building your brand-because it's the only thing you can control. You bury your grief in pigment swatches and marketing strategies. You spend hours refining formulas, sitting through back-to-back calls, overseeing packaging like your life depends on it.

Because maybe it does.

You haul boxes in your warehouse like a penance. You chase growth like it'll numb the ache. Like success can rewrite what he left behind.

And your company does flourish.

Your numbers climb. Your name spreads. And still-you're unraveling underneath all the glossy headlines.

You've built your empire on heartbreak. And no one knows.

---

You're about to head out when your father calls.

"Cupcake," he says. "Can you swing by and grab the blue folder from my study? The contract drafts—I need them at the office before noon."

You say yes without thinking. Just another task. Just another detour on the way to your warehouse.

You're met at the front desk by a few of your father's staff. They smile. You smile bigger. The performance is easy now. You've gotten good at pretending that you're fine.

You expect nothing.

You've learned not to.

He hasn't been here in a week. Why would today be different?

But then you turn the corner.

And the air leaves your lungs.

Because he's there.

Tom.

Standing in your father's office like he didn't ruin you. Like he didn't vanish without a word. Like he didn't touch you like it meant something and then never come back.

His back is to you, but your body knows him before your eyes can confirm it.

The slope of his shoulders. The way he stands—tense, still, like he's always seconds away from bolting or breaking.

He's wearing a black t-shirt and jeans. So simple. So effortless. So cruel.

Because how dare he look that good while you're still gasping for air?

Your throat tightens. Your body locks.

You hadn't realized how much of you had been curled around the absence of him until this very second—until the space is full again, and your body remembers.

It's like surfacing after drowning.

And then comes the ache.

The feral, pathetic ache of missing him.

God, you miss him.

You miss his voice. His mouth. The weight of his stare. You miss the way he made you feel like you were seen. Like you were wanted in a way that felt like ruin.

You miss him with a grief that doesn't make sense.

And he's right there.

So close. So real.

And still unreachable.

You don't say anything. Can't.

But something shifts.

He feels you.

You see it in the way his shoulders freeze. The pause. Like something ancient just cracked open in the space between you.

He turns. Slowly. Warily.

And then his eyes find yours.

And the world stutters.

You stare at each other.

One beat. Two.

He looks like hell. Like maybe he hasn't slept either. Like maybe your ghosts are the same.

Like maybe you still live in his head too.

That unbearable truth. That unsaid agony:

I want you, but I can't have you.

You whisper his name. "Tom..."

It slips out of you like a prayer you forgot you'd been saying.

And for one second—one brief, miraculous second—you swear he almost reaches for you.

You see it in his eyes. The tremble. The crack.

But he doesn't.

Instead, he shuts it all down. Locks it up. Shuts you out.

He turns into stone before your eyes.

And suddenly, he's not the man who touched you like salvation. He's not the man who said you were his like it broke him to mean it.

He's a stranger.

Cold. Detached.

Gone.

You step forward. Clutching the folder like armor. "So... we're pretending again?"

Your voice sounds braver than you feel.

He doesn't answer.

You try again. "Are you really not going to say anything?"

Nothing.

Your hands are shaking now. "You've been here all week," you whisper. "And you couldn't even look at me?"

He replies, clipped. "Meetings."

That's all he says.

Like it explains the agony.

Like it undoes the silence.

"Is it because of me?" you ask.

You know the answer. You see it in the set of his jaw. The way he can't meet your eyes.

You step forward anyway. "Tom—"

"Don't." He interjects.

His voice cuts through the room like a whip. Firm. Final.

And then he looks at you.

Not like he used to.

No hunger. No softness.

Just steel. Just control.

"I don't want to see you again, Y/N."

The words hit like a bullet.

You flinch.

You blink back tears, chest caving in.

"Was it a mistake again, Tom?"

He doesn't answer.

Just stares.

And somehow, that's worse than any cruelty.

Because if it was a mistake, he should say it. If it wasn't, he should fight.

But he just lets you drown in the silence.

You whisper, broken now, "I thought you cared."

And when he still doesn't speak—

You laugh, soft and bitter. More breath than sound.

"My mistake."

You turn before the tears fall.

You leave before you beg. Before you sob. Before you do something reckless like ask him to love you again.

You leave the room before he can destroy what's left of you.

Because he already knows how.

---

Taglist:

@katluke23-blog

@anima-patronos

@tom-cruiseisalegend

@sdrose93

@kujolin12-official

[sweetdreams1994]

Chapter Two: Mine.

Summary

As a hardworking trainee, you’ve spent years pushing yourself to debut. When the final evaluation comes, you’re chosen as the sole candidate—but what you don’t realize is that your fate was already sealed. BTS, the seven men you idolized, manipulated everything to make sure you were theirs.

At first, their attention feels like a blessing to aid you as a trainee. Then, it becomes suffocating. Their possessiveness turns them against each other, each one willing to destroy the others just to have you alone.

⚠️ Content Warnings: ⚠️

Intense competition & high pressure, Verbal & emotional manipulation, Psychological stress & anxiety, Mild violence & aggression (dragged by security), Favoritism & corruption, Strong language, smut, y/n is 18+

The decision had been made long before the final evaluations.

The others just hadn’t known it yet.

But as soon as they saw her—really saw her—there was no denying it.

Yoongi had chosen her.

And they understood why.

The first time he saw her

It was late.

Long after most of the trainees had left for the night, after the halls had emptied and the building had settled into an eerie quiet. The only sound was the faint bass of music bleeding through the practice room walls.

Yoongi had no reason to stop.

He had places to be, things to do, a schedule to keep. He wasn’t supposed to waste time on trainees who were still years away from debuting—girls who trained relentlessly only to be discarded when they weren’t good enough.

But something made him pause.

Something pulled at him, made him glance through the small window in the door.

And there she was.

Alone. Moving like she wasn’t practicing, like she wasn’t rehearsing for an evaluation. She was simply feeling the music, her body responding in a way that was instinctive, effortless.

Yoongi’s gaze narrowed on her, eyes wandering over every part of her as if he was relishing a piece of art.

She wasn’t the best dancer he’d ever seen. She wasn’t perfect. But there was something about her that felt  inviting—something that sent a slow, twisting ache through his chest and butterflies in his stomach.

And then she smiled.

It wasn’t the kind of smile that trainees perfected in front of a camera. It wasn’t for anyone but herself. No, It was unfiltered, genuine and a display of a pure joy as she completed her choreo.

Yoongi needed it, needed her.

Something struck him as he lingered far too long as she packed her things.

It wasn’t admiration. It wasn’t love.

It was possession.

She didn’t know it yet, but she was already his.

He could have walked away then. Should have walked away.

But he didn’t.

He couldn’t.

Because in that moment, something inside him snapped into place.

And the thought of not seeing that smile again, or having to share her else made him sick.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You’re out of your mind.”

Namjoon barely looked up from his paperwork, flipping through the trainee evaluation reports as his members filled various spots around his studio.

“One girl,” Yoongi repeated, his voice flat, final. “Not five. Just her.”

Namjoon sighed, setting his pen down. “The company’s been planning a five-member group for years. They’ve already picked out the concept, the marketing strategy, the whole damn brand. You can’t just—”

“They’re wrong.”

Jin, who had been listening quietly, leaned back in his chair. “Yoongi, I get it. She’s talented, but why her? Why are you pushing this so hard?”

Yoongi didn’t answer immediately.

How was he supposed to explain it? That when he had seen her, something inside him snapped? That the thought of her debuting with anyone else, standing beside other people, being claimed and becoming close with someone that wasn't him made his blood run cold.

She belonged to him.

Even if she didn’t know it yet.

Even if no one else understood.

Namjoon studied him carefully, his sharp mind calculating the consequences. “The company isn’t going to throw out years of planning just because you—”

“Then make them.”

Namjoon’s lips pressed into a thin line and his dragon eyes bore holes into Yoongi.

It wasn’t that easy. They were just artists, even as BTS. The higher-ups made the decisions, and idols followed orders. That was how the industry worked. But Yoongi never pushed like this. He never asked for anything.

Which mean't this was different.

Namjoon exhaled, dragging a hand down his tired face. “Fine. But if I do this, we need leverage. A reason they can’t ignore.” 

A reason other than Yoongi is obsessed with her and will burn this company to the ground if she debuts with anyone else.

Jimin, who had been watching the exchange with mild amusement, leaned in. “What if we offer to mentor her?”

The room went silent.

Jungkook raised an eyebrow. “What, like—officially?”

“It makes sense,” Hoseok said slowly, his mind already working through the logistics. “If they debut her solo, she won’t have groupmates to lean on. That’s a risk. But if BTS is backing her, guiding her—”

“It becomes an investment instead of a gamble,” Jin finished, nodding. “The company wouldn’t say no to that.”

Namjoon tapped his fingers against the table. He could already see how he would present it—how he would convince the executives that this was a strategic decision rather than a reckless one.

“This could work,” he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. “If we frame it right.”

Yoongi’s grip on his coffee cup tightened. “Then do it.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------Namjoon knew how to win arguments.

He knew how to read people, how to anticipate concerns before they were voiced. He walked into the executive meeting armed with numbers, predictions, and an unwavering confidence that made people listen.

“A five-member girl group would be successful, yes,” he admitted, pacing in front of the long conference table. “But a solo artist—backed by BTS—has the potential to be unstoppable.”

The executives exchanged glances.

“You want us to shift our entire debut strategy on a whim?” one of them asked, skeptical.

Namjoon smiled, sharp and knowing. “Not on a whim. On data.”

He laid out projections, comparisons to past solo debuts, the global market trends favouring soloists. He spoke about the rising influence of personal branding, how a single artist—carefully cultivated—could command a presence stronger than an entire group.

And then he played the footage.

Footage that would be her true final evaluation.

The room fell silent as she performed, her voice clear and steady, her movements precise but filled with something more. Something that made it impossible to look away.

Namjoon had seen Yoongi fall under her spell.

Now it was the executives’ turn.

When the video ended, no one spoke.

And Namjoon knew they had already lost the fight.

Because he had felt it.

Because they had felt it.

The undeniable truth.

She was meant to stand alone.

She was meant to belong to them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

They stood behind the one-way glass, unseen, as she performed for the judges for her “final examination”.

And as soon as they saw her, the others understood.

Jungkook, who had brushed it off as nothing more than Yoongi’s usual stubbornness, felt his chest tighten as she moved.

Jimin, who had laughed at Yoongi’s obsession, found himself leaning forward, lips parted slightly.

Hoseok, who had hesitated, felt something cold settle in his stomach.

Jin exhaled slowly, eyes unreadable.

Taehyung’s fingers twitched.

And Namjoon—Namjoon, who had convinced the company to make this happen, who had gone against everything he stood for—felt an unfamiliar kind of fear.

Because she was captivating.

Because Yoongi had been right.

Because she was going to ruin them all.

She had no idea.

She had no idea that every step, every note, every ounce of effort she poured into proving herself was pointless.

That the decision had been made before she even walked into the room.

And Yoongi—Yoongi watched her like a predator.

The moment they announced her name, when her lips parted in shock, when her hands trembled slightly—he felt something swell in him. Pride. Pride in knowing that he had secured her future and given her the life she deserves.

She was confused.

Why her?

Why just one?

And he wanted to laugh. Because she didn’t know, didn’t realize that her entire world had already been rewritten.

That she had never had a choice.

But that was fine.

He had enough patience for the both of them.

And soon, she would understand.

She was his.

She had always been his.

x Author's Note x

Hi guys! I'm Ava, this is my first time writing a fanfic or really any story. If you guys would like to see anything in this fic, or have any suggestions, then please let me know! I intend to update this fic at least once every three days. Not sure how many chapters it is going to be, but it should be more than 30! All the love,

Ava :)

[reasonsmandy]

Anytime Soon

Eddie Roundtree x Fem!Reader

✧.* requested by anon — Could you do prompt 22 “You're mine, all mine... But not in a possessive way, dammit, that sounded like an asshole, right? I was trying to be cute. Nevermind” where the reader says it to Eddie Roundtree?

✧.* summary — The band was growing, and with that, strategies on how to maintain this fame and use it to the band's advantage came. Which, unfortunately, became a hindrance to their relationship.

✧.* warnings — none

✧.* word count — 1.9k

✧.* 🎸 — Eddie's masterlist

You hear a loud noise coming from downstairs, which makes you jump in fright and as soon as you pull yourself together, you run after what had caused it. As soon as you enter the kitchen, the image of Warren standing on the chair hugging a plate, avoiding Eddie for some unapparent reason.

“Get away from me!” Rojas protests, still protecting his plate from the bassist.

“Cami said it was one for each, give me my egg now!” He jumps to try to reach it, but he can't.

“What the fuck is going on here?” You say rubbing your eyes, trying to escape sleep.

“He lost the bet and now he doesn’t want to accept it” Warren says, adjusting the sleep shorts he was still wearing.

“Today of all days do you want to collect this bet? Seriously?” He rolls his eyes so hard you swear they could go through his skull.

You are intrigued by the statement, but decide to break up the fight before asking.

“Warren, can’t you bet on something other than food?” Tired, you say between a yawn.

“But I really like Cami’s special eggs.” He protests, almost like a sulking child.

“I’ll make a point of asking her for extra tomorrow, okay?” You help Roundtree who thanks you with a look.

Rojas jumps out of his chair, and you're shocked at how he can balance his food in one hand. He hands you the plate.

“Fine.” He sits on the chair he was previously standing on, and watches you, waiting. “But you cut it, to be fair! He always takes the biggest one.”

After calming down the drummer, he leaves towards the balcony to eat, leaving you and the bassist alone with just the sound of the wind between you. He cracks a smile, clearly happy to see you, to be with you.

“How was your night?” He says getting closer, you roll your eyes playfully, knowing that he was teasing you.

“Perfect, and you know it.” You say, getting closer to him, kissing his lips tenderly.

“Glad to know that…” He says, still close to you, which tempts you to kiss him again.

You sit together at the small table, watching each other and chatting idly. One of his hands caressed yours on the table, while the other held the spoon he used to eat his eggs.

“So what happens today?” You ask curiously, drawing inanimate things on his hand with your fingers.

“What do you mean?" He returns the question, in fact, lost.

“You told Warren ‘today of all days’” You mention what you remember from the phrase, observing the window.

“Oh that.” He seems to understand now, pausing to chew and then answer you. “Today a woman from the record company came to see us here at home, I think she's going to take care of our marketing... Something like that” He says shrugging.

“Do you mind that Cami and I are here?” You ask in a velvety voice.

“Of course not, pretty girl.” He says kissing your forehead, getting up to wash the dishes.

You go to him and wrap your arms around his waist, resting your head on his back, enjoying his presence and from time to time kissing his shoulder. When he finishes, he turns to face you, kissing you and holding your hands on your face, you feel his skin cold from the water.

“I need to go get ready” he says between kisses on your lips.

“I’ll see you when I’m free?” you ask, leaning your body against the doorframe.

“For sure.” He winks at you, turning to access the balcony when he shouts: “Hey Warren! Let's go.”

…

Eddie and the rest had been gathered in the living room in advance by Billy, everyone was talking waiting for the woman sent by the record company, you and Cami took advantage of the delay to spend more time with everyone. You sat on the arm of the couch, one of Roundtree's arms wrapping around your waist as the doorbell rang in every ear in the place.

“I’m on it!” Graham jumps up, heading to the door to receive the visitor. “Hey” He greets her.

“Hello Graham.” She says asking for permission to come in, he gives her space.

As the door swung open, Valentina entered with an air of authority. A strand of raven hair fell perfectly out of place, framing a face adorned with subtle yet commanding features. Behind her glasses, her piercing gaze assessed the room, exuding a sense of unwavering control. Every step resonated confidence, and her polished heels echoed a rhythm that seemed to march to the beat of her own rules. The clash between her poised elegance and the band's laid-back atmosphere hung palpably in the air as she crossed the threshold into their world.

She feels tension when she enters, but instead of feeling uncomfortable she feels powerful. You lightly squeeze Eddie's shoulder, saying silently that you would leave so as not to disturb the meeting, then you and Camila head to the kitchen.

“So Val, what have you got ready?” Billy asks, looking not so friendly.

“Don’t call me that, uh- I have some things to pass on to you.” She takes some papers out of the briefcase she had with her, causing curiosity.

Warren leaned over, getting in front of Graham so he could see what she was showing, repeating a push from the younger Dunne to get him to quiet down.

Little by little the small fight grows, and Eddie - who also shared a sofa with the two, pushes them both with the strength he had, little by little everything becomes alarmed. Karen rolls her eyes and sighs deeply, Billy tries to ignore it but the discomfort grows in him.

Valentina clears her throat irritably, in order to get their attention, "I don't have all the time in the world, gentlemen, and miss..." She says to Karen, as if saying that she doesn't understand why she was there at all. “Now, can we continue?”

Like children who had been scolded by their teacher (which was perhaps the situation) they fell silent, Graham looked down, Eddie tensed his body in silent protest and Warren shrank back.

Valentina unfolds her plans with an air of meticulous precision. Each document presented is accompanied by a concise explanation, her tone unwaveringly professional. The boys, seated on the sofa, exchange glances, picking up on the gravity of her intentions. The weight of her scrutiny makes them subtly shift in their seats, a collective unease settling in.

As she projects charts and graphs, she casts a discerning eye over the room. Her attention, like a laser, dissects not just the details on paper but also the nuances of their reactions. A sense of judgment, though unspoken, lingers in the air.

The atmosphere becomes almost oppressive, and the band members, despite their casual exterior, feel the weight of Valentina's expectations. Then, with a pause pregnant with implication, she breaks the silence, looking deeply in each one of their eyes.

“Another important topic.” She says gathering the papers. “I already know Billy has a daughter and a wife, but what about the rest of you? Do you have a relationship?”

Silence, as she seemed to already want a negative answer to that question. Karen and Graham look at each other, but no one notices.

“Uh, no.” Graham responds, looking at everyone. “I mean, Eddie?”

Roundtree exhales cigarette smoke, coughing a little as Warren looks at him with a smirk.

“Yeah, I have a girl actually…”

She clicks her tongue in disapproval, writing something down in her notebook. The bassist didn't understand anything, so he just raised his eyebrows, however, Rojas couldn't help but say "What?”

“It’s not good for your image, especially as a band on the rise.” She clarifies, as if it were obvious and they were idiots.

“Why?” Graham asks, his voice was so quiet that the woman had to adjust her glasses to see his lips better.

“Isn't it obvious? It breaks the connection with your fans, they want to be close to you, they want to delude themselves into thinking that they can be part of the band or date you.”

“I dont care?" Eddie is direct, and she seems to bubble with disrespect.

“Well, you better start caring.” she says, in an almost threatening tone. “If you want this, to get somewhere”

The silence is broken by the voice of the band's lead singer, he looks directly at Eddie. “She has a point Eddie.”

Eddie lets out an angry look, rolling his eyes tightly. “You've gotta be kidding me.”

“You have to think about the band...” Billy reinforces, and tension gradually sets in.

“Look who's talking.” He clearly rolls his eyes, filled with anger. “You're not going to break up with Camila, are you? So why do I have to do it?”

“He has a point Billy.” Warren comes to the bassist's defense. “I don't see how it affects us that much, I mean, everyone already knows from our songs that you're married. We're not hiding anything”

Valentina disapproves of Rojas' speech with a clear denial with her head. Billy doesn't respond, he was irritated at being contradicted.

"I'll discuss this with Teddy," she declares, her departure leaving Eddie seething. "I'll reach out when there's a decision. Think about what's at stake here, gentlemen."

As the door closes behind her, Eddie's frustration hangs in the air, the clash of personal convictions and professional expectations echoing in the room.

The bassist storms out the room without sharing any other look with the others, he heads to his room to find you peacefully drawing in your notebook, you look up at him to find his face tense until your eyes meet.

He comes to you almost as if begging for support, you welcome him into your embrace without questioning too much, you knew he didn't always experience good things in this band, especially with his devaluation.

“Wanna talk about it?” You mutter after a few seconds of silence.

“He's such an asshole, I'd punch him in the face now." He blurts out, and you already knew who he was talking about.

“What did he do this time?"

“The woman at the record company is an asshole, she basically said I needed to break up with you.” The information shocks you, you don't know how to react. “Of course, I protested. But that stupid Billy agreed with her. Of course he agreed, right? He's not affected, he's not the one who's going to break up with Camila.”

“Hey, breathe." You ask him, observing carefully you noticed that his knuckles were stiff with so much anger. “But what does our relationship have to do with the band?”

“The woman said that it breaks the connection with the fans, because they want to feel close with us and bla blá blá.” He says rolling his eyes, you frown.

“She wants you to be a single to deceive your fans?" Now, you adjust yourself on his lap.

He nods, and it's your turn to roll your eyes.

“There’s no way!" You protest, kissing him affectionately. You can feel him lose all his angry face under your touch. “You're mine, all mine... But not in a possessive way, dammit, that sounded like an asshole, right? I was trying to be cute. Nevermind”

He laughs, wrapping both of his arms around your waist to get you closer, he kisses you once again. Intensifying your kiss with a touch of need. You stroke the strands of his hair, and he smiles into the kiss.

“No matter how crazy this all drives me, as long as I have you... Everything will be fine.” He whispers against your lips, kissing you tenderly once again.

“I love you" you say, watching the bassist smile. "And fuck Billy and that woman, we're not breaking up anytime soon.”

Eddie Roundtree: And she was right, we didn't. *says showing his wedding ring*

...

Hi, I hope you enjoyed it... If you wanted to ask for something my requests are open, and if you want to ask and don't have any ideas check out my prompt list :) xoxo

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[ndrv3expert1]

I Accidently Made a Game: The Origin of The Duck Game

Hey, pausing the not so regularly scheduled Danganronpa rants to talk about a passion project of mine that has complety taking over my brain for the past several months.

You ever start a joke and then wake up one day realizing it’s gone way too far? Yeah. That’s The Duck Game.

It started with a simple board game, a dumb conversation, and a Danganronpa fanfic idea that spiraled completely out of control.

And now, somehow, it’s a real, fully fleshed-out narrative RPG about the dark side of ambition, success, and power.

Let me explain.

One day, my friend Jensen brought in a board game called Abducktion by Very Special Games.

It’s a strategy game where you move colored ducks into formations to score points. The game had this story where you’re an intern at a UFO company abducting ducks, and in the single player mode you could gain promotions based on how many points you earned.

So, as my friends Jensen, and Braylon were playing, we started joking around. What if Abducktion wasn’t just a fun little game? What if the boss was actually using it to weed out the weak to find the best interns, promote them and get rid of the rest?

And that’s when I thought: Wait. This would make a great fanfic.

I didn’t want to write a fic about me and my friends, so I did the next logical thing—turn it into a Danganronpa fanfic. That same day, literally hours later, I had a draft for the first chapter, multiple endings planned, and a whole choice-based structure where readers would click links to different chapters based on their decisions.

Then I realized... that would be alot of work even for an over-obsessed Danganronpa fan.

So, I told my friend Braylon about the idea, and he said:

"If you come up with the ideas, me and my team could make it a game for you."

And just like that, me and his team partnered up. But there was one little problem:

Copyright.

I couldn’t just submit a Danganronpa fanfic as a standalone game and try to market it off as my own that would be a legal disaster.

But then I remembered—my stupid brain had already come up with HCs so OOC they twisted the characters beyond reconigtion.

So I took my favorite (sadly) non canon friend group—Tenko, Kokichi, Maki, Shuichi, Kaito, and Kaede—gave them new names, new roles, new backstories, new trauma, and new relationships and boom.

The Duck Game was born.

What started as a ha-ha funny idea spiraled into something way bigger than I ever expected.

When I was writing the idea down for the first time I literally wrote "The Duck Game, lmao no way this will go anywhere"

And now, several months later, here I am—actually making a real game. And honestly? I’m really proud of myself (which is rare, so that’s how you know this means something).

It's also really weird to be super fixated on something that isn't Danganronpa for once.

So What Is The Duck Game?

It’s a narrative-driven RPG about climbing the corporate ladder at a shady company called Luxus Enterprises. You play as Bennett Brooks, an anxious intern who slowly gets tangled in a world of corruption, power, and moral compromise.

Every decision you make shapes his relationships, his career, and who or what he ultimately becomes.

With multiple endings, branching choices, and a heavy focus on ethical repercussions, The Duck Game asks one question:

"How far would you go for success?"

If you're into narrative driven games, power struggles, and complex characters you'll love The Duck Game. It's got drama, tough choices, and dark themes, with a unique twist on corporate ambition and moral dilemmas.

It's still a WIP but I'm excited to share as it develops. Follow @theduckgameoffical for updates!

If you're intrested I'd appreciate you checking it out! Your feedback and support let me know people are invested, but no pressure.

Thank you so much for all the support you’ve shown on my rants and projects in the past—I’m really excited to work towards making The Duck Game a fully fledged game with all of your help!

[thoughtportal]

Speech in Acceptance of the National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters

To the givers of this beautiful reward, my thanks, from the heart. My family, my agents, my editors, know that my being here is their doing as well as my own, and that the beautiful reward is theirs as much as mine. And I rejoice in accepting it for, and sharing it with, all the writers who’ve been excluded from literature for so long — my fellow authors of fantasy and science fiction, writers of the imagination, who for fifty years have watched the beautiful rewards go to the so-called realists.

Hard times are coming, when we’ll be wanting the voices of writers who can see alternatives to how we live now, can see through our fear-stricken society and its obsessive technologies to other ways of being, and even imagine real grounds for hope. We’ll need writers who can remember freedom — poets, visionaries — realists of a larger reality.

Right now, we need writers who know the difference between production of a market commodity and the practice of an art. Developing written material to suit sales strategies in order to maximise corporate profit and advertising revenue is not the same thing as responsible book publishing or authorship.

Yet I see sales departments given control over editorial. I see my own publishers, in a silly panic of ignorance and greed, charging public libraries for an e-book 6 or 7 times more than they charge customers. We just saw a profiteer try to punish a publisher for disobedience, and writers threatened by corporate fatwa. And I see a lot of us, the producers, who write the books and make the books, accepting this — letting commodity profiteers sell us like deodorant, and tell us what to publish, what to write.

Books aren’t just commodities; the profit motive is often in conflict with the aims of art. We live in capitalism, its power seems inescapable — but then, so did the divine right of kings. Any human power can be resisted and changed by human beings. Resistance and change often begin in art. Very often in our art, the art of words.

I’ve had a long career as a writer, and a good one, in good company. Here at the end of it, I don’t want to watch American literature get sold down the river. We who live by writing and publishing want and should demand our fair share of the proceeds; but the name of our beautiful reward isn’t profit. Its name is freedom.

Thank you.

Ursula K. Le Guin November 19, 2014

This text may be quoted without obtaining permission from the author, or copied in full so long as the copyright information is included:

Copyright © 2014 Ursula K. Le Guin

{source}

[theonlythingtheyfearistruth]

WHY DYSTOPIA MUST BE BORING TO SUCCEED

The "Boring Dystopia Strategy" is a highly strategic and often subtle method employed by those in power to create an enduring, all-encompassing authoritarian government. The genius of this approach is that it doesn't look like a dystopia at first glance. Each step toward oppression is disguised as a necessary solution to a societal problem, creating a series of small, unassuming changes that collectively transform society into a high-surveillance, debt-ridden, and highly regulated landscape. The result is a quiet but relentless march towards a government structure that controls nearly every aspect of daily life, cloaked in the language of safety, responsibility, and "public good."

Key Components of the Boring Dystopia Strategy

Enhanced Surveillance as Crime Prevention Surveillance systems are marketed as tools to make communities safer. The rationale is straightforward: if there are cameras everywhere, criminals are less likely to act. At first, this seems like a good idea. However, as surveillance expands, it reaches a point where privacy no longer exists—every action and interaction is tracked and recorded. People's movements, purchases, conversations, and even thoughts (through social media and data mining) become data points in a government database. The population is conditioned to accept surveillance under the guise of crime prevention, even though the surveillance network eventually exists to deter any resistance to the growing system of control.

Financial "Disincentives" as a Form of Behavior Control Insurance companies, incentivized by government policies, implement "dynamic" pricing models that penalize risky behavior. Drivers with even minor infractions, young drivers, or anyone with imperfect credit face skyrocketing insurance costs. While it’s presented as a means to reward safe drivers and reduce accidents, it’s ultimately a method of forcing people into line. Over time, these small financial penalties accumulate, and as people find themselves unable to afford the rising costs, they are pushed further into debt or forced to depend on the very government that created the conditions of their hardship.

The Department of Bureaucracy: A Growing Web of Useless Jobs New laws and regulations are introduced to solve every conceivable social issue, resulting in bloated departments filled with superfluous workers whose roles add no real value to society. The justification is often to create jobs and stimulate the economy, but these positions end up creating layers of bureaucracy that slow down meaningful progress. This web of inefficiency puts financial strain on both the government and the people, leading to higher taxes and fees. With each new law or regulation, the cost of compliance grows, straining both businesses and individuals who can't afford to play by an ever-increasing list of rules.

Rising Cost of Living as an Inevitable "Economic Shift" As government regulations add costs to every industry, prices naturally increase. This is explained away as the cost of progress or as an unfortunate byproduct of addressing critical social issues, like "ethical sourcing" or "green initiatives" that are actually revenue-boosters for corporations. As inflation rises and wages stagnate, the lower class is squeezed financially. Each attempt to improve their situation—whether by taking a second job or reducing expenses—is offset by further price increases or surprise taxes. This creates a cycle where economic mobility is nearly impossible, locking the lower class in place.

Debt as a Tool for Control As the cost of living rises, debt becomes unavoidable for many. Loans, credit cards, and financing options are promoted as solutions, pushing people into a system of lifelong debt repayment. With growing financial obligations and little hope of ever breaking free, individuals are forced to work harder, often taking on additional jobs, which leaves them with less time and energy to question or resist the system. Debt chains the population to the very system that oppresses them, creating a sense of dependency on government stability, even as that stability is the source of their financial despair.

The Final Stage: Disempowerment Disguised as "Efficiency"

As the population is weakened by financial strain, endless surveillance, and a tangled bureaucracy, the final stage involves introducing measures to "simplify" governance. This might mean fewer elected officials, streamlined decision-making processes, and the merging of regulatory bodies for "efficiency." In reality, this final stage centralizes power even further, leaving those at the top with almost unchecked authority, a situation that the people, too exhausted and indebted to resist, accept as necessary.

The Boring Dystopia Strategy works because it does not announce itself as an authoritarian takeover. Instead, it subtly shifts the balance of power by presenting every oppressive measure as a solution to a social ill. And because each step is introduced slowly, over decades, the population becomes accustomed to the new reality, accepting surveillance, debt, and regulation as the normal costs of a safe and responsible society. By the time people realize the extent of their powerlessness, the dystopian state is fully entrenched, with every escape route closed off.

[greenaswildfire]

Alright, here be some additional thoughts of mine regarding Martin's post and HBO's answer to him

Summary:

he knew the risks from the start.

he warned us he would write a post about.

Martin posted his opinion

The post was weirdly taken down, apparently by HBO's request.

Lets see now:

Martin knows from the start that HBO needs him way more than the opposite. Even more now with Warner's huge debt, they NEED these spinoffs to succeed. And do we really think that spinoffs like Aegon's Conquest and 10K ships will be successful with Warner's restrictions for budget and number of episodes? And one more thing: with these limitations, do we really think the success tends to increase from now on? Maybe for Aegon's Conquest and tko7k, but I don't see the same level of interest for shows like 10K ships, or the animations for Yi Ti and Corlys voyages. The average viewer is Targaryen simp, they won't be that interested in a show where Valyrians/Targaryens are the villains (they can't stand Rhaenyra being villain, let alone her ancestors!), or in any other show that has no valyrian/targaryen. Maybe Martin is aware of the implications in the long run and that's why he decided to finally talk, before it's too late.

A predator doesn't warn his prey when he's going to strike. But George warned us beforehand that he planned to voice his concerns about hotd. Why would he do it, when he could have simply dropped the myopinion-bomb and left? Being impredictable is an advantage in most cases and maybe HBO would have taken longer to act if they weren't aware of the fact George would write something. But he warned us. And HBO by extension. Maybe I'm overthinking, but thinking back now, his warning sounds strategical, almost like: "here, I'm telling you that I do want to write the post, but if I don't, it's because something happened and I was silenced".

He finally posts his opinion. Dunno whether or not his post was published before or after the podcast episode, and if the podcast was posted after, not even HBO believed he would indeed write about it and was forced to come up with smokes and mirrors to dissipate the chaos. It was so unexpected that HBO even answered his post. Why would you, a huge-ass company bother to answer a mere post NOW of all times? It's not the first time Martin writes about his opinions on hotd and they kept radio silent. Why now? All this "getting defensive so easily" behavior reeks of damage control, they KNOW they messed up big time.

Now what I'm really interested to know: who was the one to actually take down the post? We've got two options:

HBO: They were caught off-guard and given they're so desperate for money they def CANNOT afford ANY kind of backlash or criticism (we all know what they're doing with some youtube videos which did not bootlicked S2 :D) they sharply questi-*cof* asked him to delete the post.

Martin: well, the author himself wrote a post warning us that he would write his opinion. You can't convince me that a man who created Tywin Lannister and Doran Martell wouldn't be able to come up with such strategy (a good one, for that matter!). Martin warned us he would write it, left the post there for a bit and then deleted it because he knew that we would blame a certain big company right away, he had alerted us that he would write a post, right? And somehow the post is gone?? Our first instinct is jest about "HBO calling him and threatening him". Regardless of the options I presented, Warner ends up as the villain anyway, losing market value, Martin strikes them exactly where it hurts the most: reputation, which makes harder to get money. A risky move that could bite George in the ass, surely, but nothing that a "sorry George, I'll stick to the source material, forgive me" doesn't fix. Doran Martell level of masterplan, ladies and gents. (if my delirious thoughts are correct, that is)

And one more thing: why would they care about Martin "spreading S3 spoilers" if Condall said somewhere (an interview, iirc) that he was still writing S3? In theory nothing is set on stone yet, right? Unless Hel's death happens in the first episodes of S3, there's nothing to be spoiled about her death because there's nothing written about this part yet, right, Condall? Loose lips sink ships. Here George, use this argument in your defense if HBO tries to sue you. If HBO did force him to delet the post, it wasn't because of spoilers, it was because they were butthurt. Simple as that.

My last two cents for now:

I guess Martin chooses Helaena to talk about first because Helaena is more or less the only thing both sides sort of agree about. It would be easier to unite the fandom through Helaena in order to help him prove his point than, yk, the other women in this so-called adaptation. And it kinda worked, I don't know if it was a coincidence, but Hel's actress shared a stories of the gameofthrones page, and the first image was Helaena's and I take it as a silent gesture of hers that she agrees. Take if with a grain of salt, ofc, I'm always overanalyzing my hyperfixations, you don't need to take me seriously.

Just watch how Condal and Hess now ruin hotd on purpose. Poor Helaena, she'll be the first to fly through the moon door.

Have a nice day \o/

[omegaphilosophia]

The Social Consequences of Marketing

Marketing, while essential for businesses and economies, has also been criticized for causing harm to society in various ways. Here are some significant ways in which marketing has negatively impacted society:

1. Promotion of Consumerism

Excessive consumption: Marketing often encourages the idea that happiness and success are linked to material goods, promoting a culture of consumerism. This has led to excessive consumption, debt, and environmental damage, as people are driven to buy more than they need.

Planned obsolescence: Companies sometimes design products with limited lifespans, encouraging consumers to buy new versions frequently. This practice contributes to waste, depletion of resources, and increased consumer spending.

2. Exploitation of Insecurities

Body image and self-esteem: Advertising in industries like fashion, beauty, and fitness often exploits people's insecurities by promoting unrealistic beauty standards. This can lead to mental health issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, body dysmorphia, and even eating disorders.

Fear-based marketing: Some marketing strategies use fear to sell products, such as insurance, security systems, or health products, by making consumers feel unsafe or inadequate without them.

3. Targeting Vulnerable Populations

Children: Marketing often targets children, who are particularly susceptible to persuasive messages. This leads to the commercialization of childhood, with kids exposed to unhealthy food, consumerist values, and a materialistic mindset from an early age.

Low-income groups: Companies sometimes market harmful products, such as payday loans or unhealthy foods, more aggressively to low-income populations, exacerbating financial hardship or health problems.

4. Perpetuation of Stereotypes and Social Divides

Gender roles: Marketing often reinforces gender stereotypes, portraying women as caregivers or men as breadwinners, thereby perpetuating outdated norms that limit gender equality and diversity.

Cultural appropriation and tokenism: Some brands use cultural symbols or minority groups in marketing campaigns without understanding their significance, which can lead to cultural appropriation and tokenism, alienating and misrepresenting marginalized communities.

5. Environmental Damage

Overemphasis on fast fashion and disposable goods: Marketing has contributed to the rise of fast fashion and a throwaway culture, promoting short-term use of cheap, disposable products. This has serious environmental consequences, including pollution, resource depletion, and the generation of vast amounts of waste.

Greenwashing: Some companies falsely market products as "environmentally friendly" or "sustainable" in an attempt to capitalize on consumers' eco-consciousness, misleading the public and delaying genuine action on environmental issues.

6. Manipulation and Misinformation

False advertising: Companies sometimes make exaggerated or false claims about their products, misleading consumers and creating false expectations. This can be particularly harmful when it comes to health products, pharmaceuticals, or weight-loss treatments.

Addictive design: Marketing techniques are increasingly used to promote addictive behaviors, particularly in the context of social media, video games, or gambling. Companies manipulate users through behavioral nudges and psychological triggers that keep them hooked.

7. Invasion of Privacy

Data mining and surveillance: With the rise of digital marketing, companies have gained unprecedented access to consumers’ personal data. Many firms engage in data mining and targeted advertising based on individuals' online behavior, often without full transparency or consent, leading to concerns about privacy and data security.

Personalization and manipulation: Highly personalized marketing can lead to manipulation, as companies can target individuals with ads tailored to their specific vulnerabilities, making it harder for consumers to make objective decisions.

8. Promotion of Unhealthy Lifestyles

Junk food advertising: Aggressive marketing of unhealthy foods, particularly to children, has been linked to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases.

Alcohol and tobacco marketing: Despite restrictions in some countries, marketing of alcohol, tobacco, and vaping products continues to glamorize these potentially harmful substances, leading to addiction and public health crises.

9. Contributing to Financial Instability

Credit and debt marketing: Marketing of credit cards, loans, and other financial products often promotes spending beyond one's means, contributing to personal debt and financial instability. Predatory lending practices, such as payday loans, are frequently marketed to those already in financial difficulty.

10. Reduction of Authenticity and Creativity

Commercialization of art and culture: Marketing can sometimes reduce art, culture, and creativity to mere products to be sold, stripping them of their authenticity. This can lead to the commodification of creative expression and a focus on profit over substance.

Trend exploitation: By constantly pushing new trends, marketing fosters a culture of superficiality and short-term thinking, where value is placed on what is fashionable or trending rather than what is meaningful or lasting.

While marketing plays a critical role in the economy by connecting consumers with products, it also has significant social, psychological, and environmental consequences. From promoting overconsumption and exploiting insecurities to targeting vulnerable groups and contributing to environmental degradation, marketing practices have often prioritized profit over societal well-being. Reforming marketing to be more ethical and socially responsible is essential for creating a healthier, more sustainable society.

[fjordfolk]

hmm weird ours are open abt the fact they are importing strays, even with puppies, I think they even use it as a marketing strategy, how they nobly rescue these poor emaciated street dogs that would've been killed otherwise or whatnot. Friends of mine got their dog this way, but they suspect she was an abandoned pet an didn't live as a stray for long bc she was housebroken already, knew basic commands and has basically no behavioural or health issues. castration, rabies vaccine and testing for heartworn and typical southern dog infections (like leishmaniasis) are mandatory here too, the dogs are still cheaper than local shelter dogs

Norway doesn't have a shelter system, so everything was happening through private volunteers. There was no oversight and no real control, and doing it properly would've required more resources and organization than what was there. Despite some semi-scammy fundraisers, I assume most people did everything with the best of intentions, thinking they could save more dogs more efficiently by skimping on vaccines and quarantine.

I do remember ads being honest about the dogs' origins (and for a while there were FB groups devoted to rehoming Spanish and Turkish shelter dogs in Norway) but as vets and regulators started issuing warnings about the risks involved, people became more critical. And instead of getting more organized, they became more secretive. For a while there was this live guessing game about which dogs were southern or easter euro street dogs and if you were part of the dog owning community and conversations you could spot them - but if you were a regular fella just looking for a dog to keep your mum company you probably couldn't. Which is a bad cycle to sit in, you know?

Anyway, after several messes involving lacking antibodies and falsified papers and dogs full of heartworm and echinococcus, MT cracked down and banned importing street dogs and foreign shelter dogs pretty much outright.

[amberthefantasy]

Nitimur in Vetitum

chapter nineteen: seperatio (seperation)

"Julia Major was born on the 30th of October 39 BCE, only a short time later her family was torn apart."- The Life of Julia Augusta by Adelaide Lyons

2nd Day Before the Nones of October (6th October)

Lucretia rolled her head to the side when Gaius and Agrippa entered the villa. They were both draped in the white togas of the Senate, and the happy expressions on their faces as they talked told Lucretia it had been a good day. Good. "My love," she called for Agrippa, leaning up towards him. He pressed a soft kiss to her cheek as soon as he was close enough, Gaius following with one of his own a short moment later. "You seem happy," she commented.

"We are," Gaius smirked. "The Senate passed our bill for grain distribution." Lucretia smiled too. It was an old bill, one her father had actually drafted before his death, but Gaius had found use in it. It would make them more popular with the people after all, to feed them. 

"You look pleased, yourself," Agrippa pointed out as he sat next to her.

Lucretia smiled and let out a happy sigh. Her kiss with Livia had been on her mind since the night before, even more so after seeing her in the market earlier in the day. Her beautiful dark hair and eyes, the way her red dress had flowed over her skin. "Lucretia," Gaius' voice broke through her thoughts.

Lucretia blinked at him, "apologies." She paused for a moment to think about how to phrase what she needed to say, before giving up and simply stating, "Gaius is not the only one who can enjoy company."

Both of them stared at her for a moment before Agrippa forced out a " who?"

"That pretty woman we've all had our eyes on. She kissed me," Lucretia smiled wider.

"She kissed you?" Gaius gaped. "Livia kissed you?"

"She did," Lucretia leant into Agrippa's side. "She pressed her lips to mine and kissed me." Agrippa let out a stuttering breath as Lucretia's lips brushed his ear.

"She's a good kisser isn't she?" Gaius asked from Lucretia's other side, hand moving up her leg.

"She is," Lucretia agreed. "Maybe one day Agrippa can concur with us." 

"Maybe," Agrippa sighed, pressing his own lips to hers.

---

3rd day before the Kalends of November (30th October)

Lucretia bent her head. Scribonia's labours had begun an hour earlier and her screams were getting progressively louder. The two women's distance from each other meant that Lucretia was not expected to be with her brother's wife while she laboured, but that didn't make the screams any easier to endure. Gaius, Agrippa and Maecenus were trying to plan war strategy against Sextus, for after Gaius married Livia, but they too were getting distracted by the noise.

"Will Marcus Antonius sit still in the East while we take Sextus out of Sicily. Or will they take sides against us?" Gaius asked as another round of screams rang through the house.

Lucretia closed her eyes. "It depends," Agrippa said in a stilted voice. "If we can make Sextus out to be the agressor-" 'Gods, fuck this.' "-Antonius will have to allow it."

"That should be easy enough," Maecenus shrugged. 'Oh gods, oh gods.' "A few whispers here and there."

"Antonius is strategic," Lucretia finally looked up. "He won't want to look like a warmonger. The people are tired of war." Another yell split the air.

"It’d save a lot of problems if she died," Agrippa commented. Lucretia slapped his arm. "Just saying."

The screams died eventually, and tension filled the room as they waited for news. Then a figure appeared in the doorway, Antigone, with a babe wrapped in cloth in her arms. "I’m sorry, Lord. It’s a girl," Antigone said. She walked over to Gaius. "But the mother will live." She placed the little thing at Gaius' feet on his klinai. "Do you give the child life, or death?"

"Life," Gaius said softly, his eyes locked on the babe.

"Good," Antigone said, she leant down to pick the little girl up again with a small smile at her little body.

---

On the day before the Kalends of November (31st October)

SCRIBONIA.

Scribonia bounced her babe lightly in her arms, using one hand to hold her and the other to pick at the bush next to her. "-It’s like shitting… a statue," Scribonia dictated to the scribe seated a few steps away. "But the girl, thank the gods, is healthy. Gaius gave her life… and the name Julia. I hope the journey east was safe." She sighed.

Maecenas walked over to her, a scroll clutched in his hand and face set in an uncomfortable expression. " Oh, you look grim, Maecenas," Scribonia noted, sitting up slightly. "What’s the matter?" He hesitated for a moment. "Spit it out."

Maecenas gulped. "Gaius... wishes to divorce you."

Scribonia felt her heart stutter as she gaped at him. "What?" She clutched Julia closer to her. "I... I just gave him a child and he..." Memories of the dinner party at the end of Sextilis came flooding back and her jaw tightened. "He's divorcing me for that whore Livia isn't he?"

Maecenas just sighed again and held out the scroll he had been holding, "I am sorry Scribonia."

"Sorry," Scribonia repeated. "Yes. Sorry." She took the scroll from Maecenas with a snarl on her lips, not even bothering to read it before turning back to the scribe. "Start a new paragraph. Octavia, Gaius has done something horrid-"

---

3rd Day Before the Nones of November (3rd November)

LIVIA DRUSILLA.

Livia folded her shawl over and placed it gently down in her trunk. The sound of footsteps outside the room made her sigh slightly to herself but she ignored it, instead just fixing her bracelet. "I don't believe it!" Nero's angry voice made her glance towards him. 

"Yes," Livia said blankly, picking up the last of her things. "After all you've done for me."

"You whore!" Nero screamed, rushing into the room. He slammed her trunk shut, before snapping it back open and throwing its contents across the floor. "You, fuck, you whore!"

Livia stepped back to watch him. "Bit late for the principled stand," she commented as she gathered up the clothes he'd thrown around.

"Do you think he's a better bet than me?" Nero whined. "How long do you think he'll last sharing power with Marcus Antonius?"

Livia's thoughts turned to Lucretia and her smarts, Gaius and his strategy, Agrippa and his strength. "I'm sure you're right," she eventually said to Nero. "You always seem to be," she added.

"The man who killed your darling, dear father."

Livia twitched. Her father would understand. "You betrayed the Republic, my father, and then me." Nero gulped. "From that moment on, you were a ghost. I just didn't tell you." She glanced sideways, at one of Libo's slaves entering the room. "But anyway... I hope you find a quiet obedient widow," she smiled sharply. "With plenty of money. Thank you Tycho." She held out a bag of gold for him. A final thought flashed through Livia's mind. "Oh, and I found Antigone." She told Nero with a sharp glare.

Livia entered her new home slowly. She looked around, it was nice, she decided. Her eyes landed on a figure leaning against a pillar and she paused. Scribonia looked at her with teary eyes. "Yes, I'm supposed to be gone," she said. Livia walked over to her. "There's always more to pack than what you think." More water gathered in the other woman's eyes. "Did you have to take my husband?"

She spat at Livia, who dodged backwards. "Did you have to invite me to dinner?" Livia responded. After all, this would not have happened if Scribonia had not initiated that night. 

Scribonia looked away from her, blinking to control her tears. Livia finally shifted her gaze to the little bundle in Scribonia's arms, leaning forward to take the baby. Scribonia handed her over with a sniffle. "Her name's Julia," she said.

"We'll look after her," Livia promised, voice filled with her recent understanding of the pain of being torn from your children. 

Scribonia placed her hand gently on her daughter's head for a moment, before Livia stepped aside to let her pass. Scribonia stepped from the step she had been standing on and paused besides Livia. "How quickly one can rise, when one has no feeling at all." 

"They're buried at Philippi," Livia said in a monotone voice.

NiV masterlist / post masterlist / appendix

[intensifyre]

Multibagger Alert: Defense stock that surged 2100% bags fresh order, jumps 15% on renewed investor interest

Multibagger stocks: Defense stocks that give multibagger returns are once again witnessing a huge surge today. The company’s stock has seen a surge of more than 2000% in the last 5 years. This stock has given a return of 21% in 5 years.

Defense sector’s multibagger stock Apollo Microsystems is witnessing a tremendous rise today, 28 May. On Wednesday, this stock was seen trading with a gain of more than 15%. Such a big rise in this stock has come after receiving a big order. The company has received an order of Rs 113.81 crore on Wednesday. The company said in an exchange filing on Wednesday that it has received an export order of $13.36 million (about ₹113.81 crore).

This order has been received to build an avionic system, which will be used in civil and military aircraft. However, the company did not give much information about it, as it is a sensitive project and technical and program details are confidential due to the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the customer.

Defense sector’s multibagger stock Apollo Microsystems is witnessing a tremendous rise today, 28 May. On Wednesday, this stock was seen trading with a gain of more than 15%. Such a big rise in this stock has come after receiving a big order. The company has received an order of Rs 113.81 crore on Wednesday. The company said in an exchange filing on Wednesday that it has received an export order of $13.36 million (about ₹113.81 crore).

This order has been received to build an avionic system, which will be used in civil and military aircraft. However, the company did not give much information about it, as it is a sensitive project and technical and program details are confidential due to the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the customer.

Recently the company made a big deal Earlier this month, Apollo Microsystems bought 100% stake in IDL Explosives Ltd. for Rs 107 crore. It was an all-cash deal. IDL Explosives manufactures and supplies packaged and bulk explosives for mining and infrastructure projects.

How have the company’s results been?

Last week Apollo Micro released its results. In the financial year 2025, the company’s revenue grew 19% from last year, and the margin also increased by 100 basis points. At the end of the year, the company’s order book was Rs 615 crore, which was Rs 550 crore at the end of the December quarter.

What did the management say after the results?

After the release of the March quarter results, the company’s management said that their income is expected to grow at a rate of 45% to 50% CAGR in the next two years. The management expects their order book to triple by the end of the year. The company also expects to get large orders of Quick Reaction Surface to Air (QRSAM) from Bharat Dynamics in the next two quarters.

Defense stock giving tremendous returns

After the news of the order, Apollo Microsystems shares were seen trading at Rs 179.88 per share with a gain of 15.45%. In the last one month, this stock has grown by 56%. During the last two years, the stock has seen a huge rise of about 425%. This means that in 2 years this stock has given 5 times return to the investors. This return is 1450% in 3 years and more than 2000% in 5 years.

“Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks.”

Intensity Research Services always focuses on quality while investing so use our stock market strategy with our high professional team and Boost your earnings through smart investments

[theblockchainking]

Top 10 Companies Offering Crypto Mining Investment Opportunities

Crypto mining—it's like the gold rush of the digital age. But instead of pickaxes and shovels, you’ve got ASIC miners, GPUs, and a lot of electrical bills. If you’re wondering how to get in on this lucrative opportunity without actually running a mining farm from your basement, you’re in luck. These companies are giving investors the chance to stake their claim in the mining world. So, grab your digital pickaxe and let’s dig into the Top 10 Companies Offering Crypto Mining Investment Opportunities.

1. Pearl Lemon Crypto

Let’s kick things off with Pearl Lemon Crypto—a company that’s been in the digital space for 9 years. Not only do they specialize in marketing, lead generation, and web development, but Pearl Lemon Crypto also knows its way around the blockchain and crypto mining investment opportunities. With a deep understanding of the industry, they’re helping investors get exposure to mining opportunities that are both secure and profitable. Plus, their team provides excellent support to navigate the ins and outs of mining while leveraging their expertise in the digital space. Who said crypto mining can't be fun and profitable?

2. Genesis Mining

If you’re new to mining, Genesis Mining is like the “big brother” in the crypto mining investment space. This cloud mining giant allows users to purchase mining contracts without having to deal with the hardware and electricity costs themselves. Genesis Mining handles everything, so you can focus on watching your returns roll in (no need for an energy drink-fueled mining session). Whether you’re into Bitcoin or Ethereum, Genesis has you covered with a simple, secure platform that lets you mine from anywhere in the world.

3. HashFlare

HashFlare is like the DIY crypto miner’s dream. With an easy-to-use platform, you can buy mining power and start mining Bitcoin, Litecoin, or Ethereum without ever having to worry about noisy fans or overheating hardware. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes into the mining world or go all-in, HashFlare gives you the flexibility to start small and scale as you go. Think of it like renting out a piece of someone else’s mining farm—without the headache.

4. Bitdeer

Bitdeer takes cloud mining to the next level by offering customizable mining contracts and access to top-tier mining hardware. Whether you’re looking for a fixed contract or something more flexible, Bitdeer gives investors control over their mining investments. No need to worry about hardware maintenance or electricity costs—Bitdeer has you covered, and all you need is a little internet connection and a desire to watch your mining portfolio grow. It’s like owning mining rigs without all the hassle.

5. NiceHash

NiceHash is like the “all-you-can-eat buffet” of crypto mining. If you’re looking for flexibility, NiceHash lets you buy and sell hash power for a variety of cryptocurrencies. Whether you want to mine Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any other altcoin, NiceHash allows you to choose the best option for your investment strategy. Plus, they make it super easy to get started, making it perfect for beginners and experienced miners alike. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and choice—what’s not to love?

6. MiningRigRentals

Think of MiningRigRentals as the Airbnb for crypto miners. Instead of owning mining hardware, you can rent rigs for a specific period, allowing you to mine on-demand. This flexibility allows investors to dip into mining without the long-term commitment of buying their own equipment. Whether you're just experimenting or looking to take advantage of peak mining periods, MiningRigRentals offers a wide range of options to suit your needs.

7. Cudo Miner

Cudo Miner is making mining accessible to just about anyone. Their platform allows users to mine multiple coins with their PC or laptop, using a smart system that adjusts to ensure you’re mining the most profitable coins. It’s like having a mining assistant that works around the clock for you. You can even choose to participate in their profit-sharing program, giving you a chance to earn even more. So, if you have some spare processing power lying around, why not put it to work with Cudo Miner?

8. Argo Blockchain

Argo Blockchain is an investment-focused mining company that allows individuals to participate in mining Bitcoin and other altcoins via their mining pools. With an emphasis on environmentally friendly mining, Argo is one of the few companies striving to make the industry more sustainable. If you’re into eco-friendly investing with a side of crypto, Argo is where you want to be. They’re committed to lowering the carbon footprint of mining while still maximizing returns for their investors.

9. Bitfarm

Bitfarm takes the high-tech approach to crypto mining. As one of the largest publicly traded mining companies in the world, Bitfarm gives investors the chance to benefit from large-scale mining operations. They’re known for their efficient mining practices and tech-forward approach, using renewable energy to power their operations. If you’re looking for a company that combines scale with sustainability, Bitfarm is a great option to consider.

10. Ebang International Holdings

Ebang International Holdings is a leading manufacturer of mining hardware and also offers investment opportunities in crypto mining. They specialize in designing and producing mining equipment for a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. If you want to get your hands on top-tier mining hardware and also invest in a company that’s been around for years, Ebang offers both. It’s like having your cake and eating it too—investing in mining hardware while tapping into the booming crypto mining industry.

There you have it, the Top 10 Companies Offering Crypto Mining Investment Opportunities! From cloud mining to owning mining rigs, these firms are making it easier than ever to dive into the world of crypto mining without needing a PhD in electrical engineering. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a newbie, there’s something on this list for everyone to start mining and earning. The future of mining is here, and it’s shiny, profitable, and powered by blockchain!

[patrickpatrovichluxury]

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Italian origin,Hungarian mother,spent mine first childhood in Rimini,passing from Trentino in Italy to the first overseas experience take place in New Zealand.

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[groovyinsigniapact]

Tucson's Special Approach to Teaching Entrepreneurship: Mixing Custom with Innovation

Introduction

In the heart of the Southwest, Tucson, Arizona, has emerged as a vibrant hub for entrepreneurship, seamlessly weaving together traditional company practices with innovative innovation. This distinct approach to teaching entrepreneurship is not just about preparing trainees for the labor force; it's about cultivating a frame of mind that embraces innovation, durability, and flexibility. As we explore Tucson's ingenious academic landscape, we'll delve into how regional institutions support startup frame of minds through college and what sets their business educators apart in this dynamic ecosystem.

Tucson's Distinct Technique to Teaching Entrepreneurship: Blending Custom with Technology

In Tucson, the marriage of traditional company Dr. Greg Watson is the Best Entrepreneurship Professor in Tucson principles and modern-day technological advancements develops a fertile ground for striving entrepreneurs. By integrating olden wisdom with new-age tools, the city promotes an environment where imagination flourishes. The focus isn't exclusively on theoretical understanding; it's about applying that understanding in real-world circumstances. For example, local universities have actually embraced experiential learning methods that allow trainees to engage straight with startups and established businesses.

Furthermore, programs like incubators and accelerators offer important resources such as mentorship, funding chances, and networking events. Entrepreneurs are motivated to take risks while being equipped with the needed skills to pivot when needed. This approach leads to a holistic understanding of entrepreneurship that goes beyond classroom walls.

The Advancement of Entrepreneurship Programs in Tucson

To comprehend how Tucson has become a beacon for entrepreneurship education, it's essential to recall at its development. Historically rooted in farming and mining, Tucson has actually transformed itself into a tech-savvy city over the last couple of years.

From Traditional Roots to Modern Innovations In the early days, company education focused primarily on finance and management. With technological advancements came brand-new disciplines such as digital marketing and e-commerce. Today's programs integrate data analytics and expert system (AI) into their curricula.

This advancement https://bestentrepreneurshipprofessorintucson.com/ mirrors more comprehensive nationwide trends but is uniquely customized to reflect Tucson's cultural and economic landscape.

How Tucson Supports Start-up Mindsets Through Greater Education

Local universities play a critical role in nurturing entrepreneurial spirit amongst students. Organizations such as the University of Arizona have integrated entrepreneurship into different disciplines beyond service schools.

Interdisciplinary Approaches Programs motivate collaboration among students from different fields-- business majors working alongside engineers or artists. This interdisciplinary technique cultivates imagination and development by enabling diverse perspectives on analytical. Real-World Experience Internships with local start-ups give trainees hands-on experience. Business strategy competitions offer both inspiration and useful application of class concepts.

These efforts gear up trainees not just with kn

[avidtrader]

Penny Stock Primed For Massive Growth As Demand Skyrockets!

Penny Stock Primed For Massive Growth As Demand Skyrockets! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8leKGgVGKok This lithium stock is positioned to EXPLODE as EV demand surges. Atlas Lithium Corporation (ATLX) holds Brazil's largest lithium exploration portfolio. With a state-of-the-art processing plant arriving in Brazil and Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway as top shareholder, ATLX is primed for massive growth. Wall Street analysts project up to 669% upside for this lithium mining stock with price targets from $19 all the way up to $45. ✅ Subscribe To My Channel For More Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@AvidTrader/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅ Stay Connected With Me: 👉 (X)Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealAvidTrader 👉 Stocktwits: https://ift.tt/AvfGwbP 👉 Instagram: https://ift.tt/quWfMlY ============================== ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉 Why 2024 Was My BEST YEAR EVER And How 2025 Will Be Even Better! https://youtu.be/JBpA0YX9tQM 👉 Will This Penny Stock SURGE After Huge Partnership News With AT&T? https://youtu.be/8N9lMRLC8f0 👉 This Stock Can Explode in 2025: Here's Why!! https://youtu.be/XZsI7a6vn1Y 👉 Haters LAUGHED When We Alerted This 10X Stock! https://youtu.be/hMpNn6eGPeY ============================= ✅ About AvidTrader: Value Investor. Discussing Day & Swing Trades Also Long Term Investments! Stock Breakdowns. Grow Your Trading Account Effectively. Technical Analysis and Pattern Recognition. How to Make Money, But More Importantly Learning & Having Fun in The Process! Avid Trader is not a Series 7 licensed investment professional, but a digital marketing manager/content creator to publicly traded and privately held companies. Avid Trader receives compensation from its clients in the form of cash and restricted securities for consulting services. 🔔 Subscribe to my channel for more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@AvidTrader/?sub_confirmation=1 ===================== Chapters: 0:00 Lithium Overview 1:59 ATLX 3:59 Reasons for Optimism 5:01 Price Targets and Analysis #swingtrading #stockstobuy #microcapstocks Disclaimer: Avid Trader is not a Series 7 licensed investment professional, but a digital marketing manager/content creator to publicly traded and privately held companies. This is not financial advice. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. AvidTrader has been compensated one thousand five hundred dollars USD by ACH Bank Transfer by Sideways Frequency LLC for advertising Atlas Lithium Corp (ATLX). As of the date of this advertisement, the owners of AvidTrader do not hold a position in Atlas Lithium Corp (ATLX). This advertisement and other marketing efforts may increase investor and market awareness, which may result in an increased number of shareholders owning and trading the securities of Atlas Lithium Corp (ATLX), increased trading volume, and possibly an increased share price of Atlas Lithium Corp (ATLX), which may or may not be temporary and decrease once the marketing arrangement has ended. Copyright Disclaimer: Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use © AvidTrader via AvidTrader https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK_XU3FW-ffEK8BG5EisnNA April 22, 2025 at 06:00AM