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vergeltvng · 4 months ago

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Bold what applies to your muse Masterpost

BOLD what applies to your muse, ITALIC what applies sometimes/depends, STRIKETHROUGH what never applies.

SEVEN SINS FOR YOUR MUSE

LUST: desire for connection, pursuit of pleasure, emotional intelligence, obsessive, lovesick, one-night stand, seductive encounter, flirtatious conversation, erotic party, seductive attire, revealing clothing, passionate gaze, provocative makeup, sensual expressions, suggestive gestures, flirtatious smiles, lingerie, love letters, perfumes, provocative behavior, love poems, erotic art

GLUTTONY: indulgence in experiences, savoring moments, hospitality, generosity, hedonism, culinary expertise, wine tasting, excessive snacking, overloaded plates, excessive portions, bloated stomachs, messy eating, greasy fingers, full tables, indulgent spreads, overflowing cups, satisfied expressions, wine bottles, can't get enough, fast food wrappers

ENVY: motivation, competitive spirit, strategic planning, observational skills, bitter, rivalry contest, envious gossip, resentment-filled argument, social media jealousy, furrowed brows, clenched jaws, side-eye looks, pursed lips, tense posture, whispering behind backs, crossed arms, gossip magazines, keeping up with the joneses, the grass is always greener, feeling inadequate

GREED: resourcefulness, entrepreneurial spirit, negotiation, materialistic, aggressive investment, lavish spending spree, resource hoarding, get-rich-quick scheme, auction bidding war, property acquisition, piles of money, overflowing wallets, luxury items, locked safes, penny-pinching, rare collectibles, selfishness, unwillingness to share

SLOTH: calmness, stress management, nonchalance, relaxation techniques, lethargic, apathetic, inactive, lazy weekend, binge-watching marathon, neglected chores, skipped workout, long nap, lounging on the couch, missed deadline, unkempt appearance, messy hair, pajamas, blankets, slippers, procrastination station, self-care routines

PRIDE: confidence, self-assurance, self-respect, dignity, public speaking, self-promotion, arrogant, conceited, egotistical, self-important, vain, boastful speech, puffed chest, raised chin, smug smiles, spotlight, tooting your own horn, showing off, refusing to admit mistakes, feeling entitled, personal branding, leadership development

WRATH: assertiveness, decisiveness, strength, intensity, boundary setting, courage, indignant, heated argument, road rage incident, physical altercation, angry outburst, clenched fists, glaring eyes, tense muscles, raised voices, reddened faces, aggressive gestures, stormy demeanor, intense frowns, destructive actions, broken objects, punching bag, out for blood, fists, simmering anger

tagged by @merry-andrews (@homelander-rp-blog)

CHARACTER QUIRKS & HABITS

likes artificial watermelon · sleeps in what they are already wearing · eats their cereal with milk · listens to music with earbuds · hates the summer · can recite past the first four digits of pi · eats frosting out of the jar · doodles on their notebooks · can bake cookies · has a garden · has had a snowball fight · eats pancakes without syrup · prefers shorts over pants · can name more than ten superheroes · has a plan for the zombie apocalypse · uses the same password for everything · can’t hold their breath for more than fifteen seconds · watches anime · hasn’t read harry potter · can say ‘ I love you ‘ in more than one language · prefers mechanical pencils · thinks space is cool · takes personality tests more than once to make sure · CAN'T TIE THEIR SHOELACES!! · has a purse · likes salads · likes cool colors better than warm colors · knows how to braid hair· reads biographies · can ice skate · knows their mbti · reads astrology charts · prefers the star wars prequels to the original trilogy · plays video games · reads the newspaper · likes chocolate ice cream best · doesn’t [usually] cuss · memorizes song lyrics · collects coupons · has a preferred order at starbucks · likes movie theater popcorn · has seen a play · listens to music with headphones · owns a hoodie · would rather own cds than online copies · has written a poem · can shuffle cards · subscribes to a magazine · double dips when eating · drinks directly out of the container · keeps a journal

tagged by @vikasgarden

IN BATTLE [...] YOUR MUSE

tagged by @heartofglass-mindofstone @vikasgarden

MUSE AESTHETICS: HORROR EDITION

𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐂 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐑𝐎𝐑. black and white. powder puffs. red lipstick. winged eyeliner. white kitten heels. black lace lingerie. icy blue eyes. rain. abandoned cars. skeletons. acid. poison. voyeurism. switchblades. strangling. overcoats. looking over your shoulder. trans-atlantic accents. private detectives. dinner parties. haunted mansions. alcohol in glass decanters. cobwebs. perfect blonde curls. kitchen knives. shock. cellars. dust. dark alleys. empty streets. driving at night. horn-rimmed glasses. radiation. zombies. serial murder. paranoia. the city. witches. the devil. cannibalism. conspiracies. amulets. abject terror. the american south. the american northeast. england. analog cameras.

𝐆𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐂 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐑𝐎𝐑. gaslights. corsets. ballrooms. candlelight. mist. starless nights. full moons. cobbled streets. horse-drawn carriages. mysterious strangers. bogs. moors. forests. mountains. castles. velvet. silver. brass. gold. jewels. domino masks. the opera. dangerous romances. tragic romances. violins. roses. lilies. empty graves. crosses. cemeteries. snow. ice. the gallows. crows. ambiguous illness. fangs. pointed nails. something howling in the night. capes. gloves. top hats. straight razors. lightning. pipe organs. underground caverns. bats. mice. rats. ravens. cats. pearls. attics. talismans. axes. wood. isolation in a room full of people. vampires. werewolves. ghosts. coffins. western europe. eastern europe. bones. churches. catacombs. mausoleums. spiders. books.

𝐒𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐒. bloodbaths. massacres. wanton nudity. newspapers. leather jackets. letterman jackets. converse sneakers. obscured faces. social unrest. bonfires. lakes. babysitters. suburbia. high school. lockers. dead leaves in the fall. jack-o’-lanterns. outdated television sets. nightmares psychiatrists. hospitals. unstoppable forces. gunfire. police. landline telephones. household objects turned into improvised weapons. halloween. secrets. revelations. character masks scrunchies. queerness. wild curls. jeering children. parties. fire. swearing. revulsion. california. the american midwest. ambulances.

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐋 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐑𝐎𝐑. malevolent spirits. seances. spells. missing bodies. hidden graves. white noise. static. flickering lights. rings of salt. demons. poltergeists. dark histories. old buildings. cold air. mausoleums. wells. urban exploration. a dog barking at something you can’t see. black ooze. old photographs. faces you can swear you’ve seen before but can’t for the life of you figure out where. dark bodies of water. crucifixes. priests. possession. exorcisms. dolls.

𝐂𝐑𝐘𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐃 & 𝐔𝐑𝐁𝐀𝐍 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐑𝐎𝐑. aliens. blinding light. dark woods. driving at night. claw-marks. bite-marks. men in black. memory loss. dismembered bodies. sewers. flashlights. cell phones. video cameras. cars with tinted windows. abandoned houses. unlabeled cassette tapes. bugs. big cities. urban crimes. clowns. something rustling outside your window. glowing light. unsolved mysteries. suburbia. mirrors. the american pacific northwest. the american midwest. hiking / backpacking.

𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐒. daylight. fluorescent lighting. morgues. asylums. unwavering eye contact. tension. lit rooms with no one inside them. a dog digging in the newly-planted flower bed. steely gazes. paperwork. anagrams. codes. convicted killers. missing persons. law enforcement. federal agents. small towns. suspicion. paranoia. subdued terror. dimly-lit parking lots.

tagged by @vikasgarden

HOW DOES YOUR MUSE CARRY EMOTIONS?

ANGER. jaw clenching, hands balling into fists, teeth grinding, yelling, going non-verbal, stuttering speech, rushed speech, slow concise speech, rambling, quiet, arms crossing, shaking head, tearing up, animated, expressionless, projects, internalises, vents, withdraws, passive aggressive, direct, physical outbursts, verbal outbursts.

JOY. easy smiles, fighting back grins, suppressed laughter, loud laughter, giggles, chuckling, smirks, whole body laughs, covers mouth when laughing / giggling, throws head back when laughing, slaps leg, touches people around them when laughing, looks down when laughing, looks for eye contact when laughing, sparkling eyes, bubbly happiness, quiet subtle happiness, obnoxious happiness, wants to spread joy, quietly savours joy.

SADNESS. crying, bottling it up, seeks distractions, wallows, meditates, trains and processes, avoidance, seeks out comfort, withdraws, talks it out, internalises it, sad smiles, depression naps, uses alcohol, uses drugs, seeks out sources of joy, fidgets with sentimental item, sits in silence, broods, gets moody, wants someone to share the misery, tries to hide negative emotions, nurtures others to make themselves feel better.

EMBARRASSMENT / SHAME. blushing, looking away, rubbing at back of head, covering face, laughing nervously, laughs it off, overthinks, lets it go, self-deprecating humor, deflects, gets irritated, smiles, withdraws, crossing arms over stomach, crossing arms over chest, hands in pockets, shoulders sinking, shrugs, falling into silence until comfortable again, talking a lot to compensate.

GUILT. avoiding eye contact, shoulders sinking low, head hanging down, crying, chest aches, lashes out, internalises, apologises, deflects, communicates, withdraws, grand gestures for forgiveness, accepts fault easily, punishes themselves, martyrdom, victim complex, guilt complex, healthy conscience, internalises even after forgiveness, seeking redemption, moves on easily, denial, lack of guilt / conscience, sorry they got caught more than caused harm, can’t handle knowing they hurt others.

FEAR / ANXIETY. trembling, crying, sarcasm / sass to cope, rambles, goes silent, gets angry, fidgeting, clenching jaw, picking at nails, chewing at lip, pulling at clothes, adjusting jewellery / clothing, swallowing thickly, eyes widening, over-reacts, under-reacts, calm, logical, panic, irrational, overthinks, carefully analyses, talks to themselves, breathing exercises, flight, fight, withdraw, fawn.

tagged by @vikasgarden

TYPES OF PEOPLE: WEATHER

𝐈. 𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍: melancholy at best, introspective, severely misunderstood, pleasure in the subdued, helping in your own way, dreams in poetry, the slowness of falling asleep, refreshing meditation.

𝐈𝐈. 𝐒𝐔𝐍: sunbleached clothes, futures that are too bright, everything at arm’s length, balancing intensity, blind encouragement, comfort of sleep, distracting sunspots in your vision, necessity of growth.

𝐈𝐈𝐈. 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐌: chaos with a purpose, emotions running high, natural comfortable anarchy, high volume, leaving your mark, brief flashes of violence, rambling quickly, the intensity of desire.

𝐈𝐕. 𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐃: running towards instead of away, instinctive motivation, making an impact, knows everyone who knows anyone, playful pranks, mood swings in a split second, collecting old trinkets, uncontrollable focus.

𝐕. 𝐒𝐍𝐎𝐖: serene on the surface, cold blooded heart, love it or hate it attitude, good memories, heavy discussions, sharp determination, relentless resolve, not as scary as it seems.

tagged by @merry-andrews (@homelander-rp-blog)

#. ⸻ ⁰⁶ 「study.」 ⊣⊢ we'll keep the red flag flying here.#gamesfakevz #long post

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sandyyy0708-blog · 18 days ago

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Football boots have actually additionally obtained end up

Football boots have actually additionally obtained end up being resilient, whenever you do not to be able to invest your cash for the specific simply collapse after a pair of usages. You can buy boots countless products varying from natural leather to artificial properties.

They will certainly wear their group jacket and either go to the video games when are privileged or merely scream recommendations and inspiration from the couch whilst glued to a television display. Acquisition are encountered with the obstacle of spending in a present to do this individual, have actually obtained no need to attempt to stress as football themed presents for him or her, are amongst the greatest cash manufacturers in earth.

It does not matter if he recognizes what he's doing since he'll attempt anyways prior to calling football footweat mercurial pas cher a specialist. If that's your guy after that attempt acquiring him one from the lots of devices that he requires. If that does not reduce after that look for out the method to maintain kids from comprehending porn by putting duck tape on the computer system projector display.

Football chaussure de foot pas cher launch rather a couple of goods showing off from costly football boots and jackets right in order to themed quit. Looking for acquisition them a main group headscarf you can be certain they will certainly use it to any kind of suits they go to and in situation not they're able to utilize it to clothe their annual snowman to reveal their group spirit throughout the year round.

Obtain referrals from others that have actually utilized a specific boot ahead. You will not obtain the sensation of using a football pitch by messing around the done away with.

For large persistence, however, football chaussure de foot mercurial will certainly be the video game that truly impresses to me. You can stroll right into a "sporting activities" bar anywhere, in instances where of the day or evening, and are mosting likely to revealing what looks the like the lengthiest running football video game in bikes of culture.

If your child has actually made a decision that he wishes to play football, might will certainly require to select the right football devices for that individual. These are in contrast to a deluxe, often tend to be required need to be removed him in addition to aid him to come to be excellent in the video game. Youngsters' football boots assist to stop the injury of strains and stress or torn tendons may come versus them as soon as they are young people.

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iisedu · 4 months ago

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TOP 3 BIGGEST DIGITAL MARKETING TRENDS OF 2024!

One thing you can always count on with the digital marketing landscape is that it constantly changes… and moves fast!

The top 3 Digital Marketing trends 2024 Spotlights.

1. Augmented Reality: Augmented reality refers to the interactive experiences that connect the real world with computer based generated perceptual information. Augmented Reality intensifies, or augments, the real world with online presence. The augmented Reality app works through mobile devices, such as smartphones, tablets in manufacturing and industrial arrangements where it benefits the user get hands free, glasses or headsets are the best gateways of augmented reality experience.

Augmented Reality has the ability to lift customer engagement into new heights,

Traditional forms of advertisement face the difficulty of reaching ever more distracted consumers, but AR offers an engaging and interactive experience. Just imagine what it means to clients who can see the product in their own space before they decide to really buy it. AR applications now even let users try holding up virtual clothing, place furniture in their living rooms, actually test-drive virtual cars, and more, making shopping more engaging and personalized.

2. AI or Conversational Marketing: AI-driven conversational marketing is not just a trend as we approach 2024; it has become a game-changer. According to Verint’s 2023 State of Digital Customer Experience report, 80% of customers now anticipate AI-powered interactions to elevate their service experiences significantly.

Conversational Marketing: It is a conversation-Oriented Approach that uses real-time conversation to engage website viewers and convert the leads into prospects. It creates a realistic experience that builds the relationship with buyer and customers.

So now instead of approaching through force and creating leads, and wait for a positive response, now it has evolved and conversational marketing platform is made that uses targeted messaging and intelligent chatbots to engage with people when they visit the website. ( Top 7 Domain Age Checker websites )

3. Analytics: Data driven marketers unite their advertising platforms with their analytics platforms to measure the impact of their ad campaigns on conversions. For example marketers can now use different elements like demographic search, traffic acquisition, as well as measures views and popularity to gain insights on website visibility.

Digital marketing trends 2024

1. AI driving industrial growth: It is not possible to talk about marketing trends without AI, AI has not only produced image generators, video generators, content maker tools, but also a part in creating a scope of improving marketing industrial growth.

2. Personalization in advertising: Consumer Expectation

It is well known that generic ads doesn’t hold the foundation for any particular user friendly search- Many leading organizations defines that the consumers do want more and more hyper personalization. This equation has fulfilled the requirement of individuality in Advertisement and Marketing.

By tolerating advance technologies and selecting Rich information from first and the zero parties, it is possible to develop exceptionally personal marketing messages

Hyper personalization goes beyond basic segments like geographical, demographics, interests and preferences of the users. This level of hyper personalization builds customer loyalty, increases productivity, boosts engagement and enhances overall marketing effectiveness.

TOP DIGITAL MARKETING TRENDS

1. Email- marketing: E-mail Marketing Comprises of the use of email to Advert goods and services to the users. It is a type of marketing that can Aware the consumers on your email list about your offerings including discounts about the goods or service. It is a mode to draw Consumers towards your brand, and a powerful direct marketing channel which can play a crucial role in marketing strategy to generate leads and Creating conversions. Personalized automated messages directly for the consumers help create customer loyalty towards the brand. ( Best Email Marketing Course Training Institute in Delhi-NCR )

2. Content Creation: The art of transforming raw facts and figures into useful information. Creation of interesting and captivating information to engage, attract and Entertain the target audience is known as Content creation. It is the operation of generating texts, audio, videos and stories into something that catches the eyes of the readers. It is not only about the word but also that adds value to the material. Content should have facts which are accurate with answers to the questions of the readers.

3. Meta verse marketing: Meta verse is basically the 3D version of Internet and computing”. Meta verse is not just the 3D internet model but is as the real world, where the people live digital lives. It is a divided and intercommunication model which is engaging, extremely realistic and interactive.

WHY VOICE SEARCH?

To know why voice search is effective and important, let us know what voice search is and how it works.

Voice search: Talking to Your Computer: Turn Speech into Text

The user activates voice control manually or Install a special program. However some people find it easier than typing. Voice search functionality works via this system – the automatic speech recognition system – transforming voice signals into text. This voice recognition system enables users of smart devices to easily perform search queries in a manner that appears automatic.

HOW VOICE SEARCH WORKS?

Voice command capability is another method that users can utilize to search Google. Voice search is supposed to ease the use of smartphones by placing digital assistant at your service. These voice search functionalities are powered by two main systems — speech recognition, which turns your voice into words, and Natural Language Processing, which helps systems understand your way of speech.

Voice search technology allows a web user to use a voice command message; one that gets a reply either by an intended phone call responder (hey Google!) or by recognizing a speaker and performing the necessary tasks, like spamming an email in an attempt to collect payment information.

Any time a voice search has operated the voice search will turn in:

1. It Clarifies the sounds: It focuses only on the voice query and separates unrelated background noises.

2. Digital data: Voice search or voice query shifts the sound into digital data.

3. Examining voice: It processes the data received through sound waves.

4. Connecting with external data sources: It connects with sources of information to procure the answers to the given data.

5. Translation of information: It translates the information in such a manner so it connects with the needs of the searcher.

6. Recognize and compare: It recognizes the pattern and compares with the existing database.

Conclusion

In the present times, Augmented Reality (AR) is becoming more user friendly and enhancing user experiences offering Involving and interactive ways to entertain with products and services. Conversational marketing, which uses Conversation approach and uses advanced AI and Chatbots customizes customer interactions, making them more reliable and meet the demands of the searcher. Meta verse Creating a virtual world same as the real world for social communication, work and entertainment, which is engaging, realistic and interactive. Voice search becomes the new normal as smart speakers and voice assistants are broadly acknowledged by the users. These trends give a rise to various digital marketing tools and strategies.

#digital marketing #Digital marketing trend #Digital marketing institute

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paypant · 11 months ago

Link

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marketsizereports · 1 year ago

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Cultural Collaborations: Themes Analysis M&A Deals in Apparel and Entertainment

Cultural collaborations between the apparel and entertainment industries through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals reflect a strategic alignment between fashion and popular culture. These collaborations often aim to leverage the influence of entertainment figures, characters, or franchises to enhance the market presence and appeal of apparel brands.

For more regional insights into the apparel industry M&A deals activity, download a free report sample

Here's a thematic analysis of potential trends in M&A deals that involve the intersection of apparel and entertainment:

Celebrity Fashion Lines: M&A deals may revolve around apparel companies acquiring or partnering with celebrity fashion lines. These collaborations leverage the influence and personal brand of celebrities to create exclusive clothing collections, bridging the gap between entertainment and fashion.

Branded Merchandising from Entertainment Properties: Apparel companies may pursue M&A deals to secure licensing agreements or acquire rights to produce and sell merchandise related to popular entertainment properties. This could include iconic movie franchises, TV shows, or video games, allowing apparel brands to tap into existing fan bases.

Limited Edition Collections and Collaborations: M&A activities may focus on creating limited edition apparel collections through collaborations with entertainment entities. This strategy generates excitement and exclusivity, attracting consumers who are fans of both the apparel brand and the entertainment property.

Fashion in Film and Television: Apparel companies may explore M&A deals with studios or production houses to actively participate in costume design for films and television shows. This can lead to the creation of product lines inspired by characters or styles featured in popular media.

Virtual Fashion Experiences in Gaming: With the rise of virtual and augmented reality in gaming, M&A deals may involve partnerships between apparel brands and gaming companies. Virtual fashion experiences within games, including branded in-game apparel, could be a key focus.

Interactive Retail Experiences: M&A activities may center around creating interactive and immersive retail experiences that blend fashion and entertainment. This could involve incorporating elements of augmented reality, virtual reality, or interactive displays within retail spaces.

Music and Fashion Collaborations: Apparel companies may seek M&A opportunities to collaborate with musicians, acquiring or partnering with fashion-forward artists. These collaborations can result in co-branded collections or exclusive merchandise tied to music events and tours.

Incorporating Pop Culture References: M&A deals may involve acquiring licenses or forming partnerships to incorporate iconic pop culture references into apparel designs. This could include using imagery, quotes, or symbols from classic movies, TV shows, or cultural phenomena.

Digital Platforms for Fashion Entertainment: Companies may explore M&A deals to invest in or acquire digital platforms that merge fashion and entertainment content. This could include platforms dedicated to fashion shows, behind-the-scenes content, or interactive experiences.

Brand Ambassadorships and Sponsorships: M&A activities may focus on securing brand ambassadorships or sponsorships with influential figures in the entertainment industry. This collaboration can extend beyond traditional endorsement deals to involve deeper integration with the brand.

Nostalgia-driven Collaborations: M&A deals may be centered around tapping into nostalgia by collaborating with entertainment properties that have a timeless appeal. This strategy can resonate with consumers who have a fondness for classic movies, TV shows, or characters.

Cultural collaborations in the form of M&A deals between the apparel and entertainment sectors highlight the synergies between these two dynamic industries. By intertwining fashion with elements of entertainment, brands can create compelling and resonant experiences for consumers, driving engagement and market success.

#Themes Analysis M&A Deals in Apparel

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mindfiresolutions-blog · 1 year ago

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The Impact of Augmented Reality on Retail Industry

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that allows overlaying digital content like images, videos and 3D objects onto the real world, thereby give the illusion of being a part of it. One of the most famous examples of AR is Pokémon Go, which overlays a virtual Pokémon (a 3D cartoon character) onto the real world. AR also offers tremendous possibilities outside of the Gaming Industry, especially in Retail.

The adage “Customer Is God” is a golden rule. It isn’t surprising, therefore, that any business that solves its customer’s problems effectively, gets rewarded with the customer’s loyalty, money, and trust. AR is fast becoming an invaluable tool in the hands of Retail businesses that aim to constantly impress their customer base and stay ahead of the competition.

Let’s look at some of the issues that concern the customers of this industry.

Customer Problems

With Online Retail:

High Time Consumption — Let’s say you order cloth from an e-commerce website. Typically it will take a few days for the product to reach you. You then gauge it on all the parameters that matter — size, color, texture, etc. If the product does not meet your expectations, you are likely to exchange the item, triggering the cycle to repeat.

Return Costs — If the business doesn’t bear the shipment cost of returns, customers are likely to pay for it.

Problems with large items — It requires a very vivid imagination to see how a new couch would look in a room. Will it look good with the rest of the furniture? Or will it even fit in the first place?

With Offline Retail:

Too much work — It takes a lot of time and energy going around dozens of stores and looking for the right items and then trying various permutations and combinations to check if they look well together.

With both Online and Offline Retail:

Un-try-able Products — Some products can’t be tried on. For example, It’s hard to imagine how a particular hair color would look on you, or if that dragon tattoo would be too much for you to carry.

Un-personalized Shopping Experience — Currently the preferences of a customer are unknown to the business. Consequently, the suggestions given to the customers are un-personalized and work on a hit-and-trial basis.

Hygiene Issues — Whether you have germophobia or otherwise, there is always a risk of contracting a disease owing to the dress being tried on earlier by an infected person.

It ain’t fun — Going from store to store, from one website and mobile app to another and trying on or imagining how every product would look like on you is an exhausting experience and is not fun for most. And in online retail, even after so much effort, one can never know if the product will turn out to be expected.

Let’s look at some of the issues that concern the businesses of this industry.

Business Problems

With Online Retail:

Shipment Costs — The trade-off between bearing the shipment costs of product-returns vis-a-vis making the customers pay for it is a tough choice for any business.

Doing Offline Retail:

Compensation for salespeople — Since the whole process is very manual, from the salesperson showing the items to the customer to making the sale, a constant involvement is needed.

Problems common to Online and Offline Retail:

Conversion Rates — Due to a lack of personalized suggestions and ads, and a tiring shopping experience, conversion rates of businesses are lower than they can be.

Brand Awareness — Extensive marketing is needed for businesses to create awareness of their brands, and it is invariably a very expensive matter.

Customer Acquisition — Customer Acquisition costs eat up a big portion of a business’s profits. These are mainly un-targeted advertisements having low conversion rates.

How AR helps solve these problems

Try And Buy Functionality: AR can overlay any item onto the real world to make it seem like it is a part of it. Powerful Machine Learning (ML) algorithms can detect the face and body of a person in an image or even in real-time. An application using a combination of AR and ML can allow its users to try on a virtual version of any item they would like to buy, from the comfort of their houses. Another possible feature is the placement of virtual 3D models of furniture inside a user’s house. Such features will reduce the number of returns the buyer makes which helps save time and reduce the return.

Saves User’s Time and Energy: as now they have the whole inventory of products available to them and they can try anything on with a click rather than manually trying every item on.

Eliminate Hygiene-related Problems: Trying items in this new way is much efficient and can be made as aesthetically appealing as needed, making the whole process a joyous experience for the user.

Increase Brand Awareness: Users can click a picture of them trying on an item and can share it on social media. This will lead to free marketing and increased brand awareness.

Automated Processes: For offline retail, the need for a salesperson is heavily reduced. A user will enter a fitting room with a screen instead of a mirror and a camera attached to the screen. Users can touch and select their choice of clothing from the screen and can try a virtual version of it instantly. If they like the item they can ask to try the real item on. Hence the need for a salesperson is reduced considerably.

Attracting Customers and Increasing Conversion Rates: A screen mounted with a camera-enabled with AR can show how someone standing in front of the mirror would look like wearing a certain item. Such a setup outside a retail store will attract flocks of customers who after seeing them trying on a virtual item would want to buy it if it looked good.

Things To Know Before Introducing AR Into A Business

Accuracy: An AR experience that isn’t accurate will not be useful for the customers or the business. For example, a user won’t like if the sunglasses they’re trying on, fits on their forehead instead of eyes, or if the virtual couch they are trying to place doesn’t rest on the ground properly.

Speed: An AR experience must be fast and lag-free. Long loading time and high latency always drive the user away.

Final Thoughts

Like other businesses, if you too are looking for custom AR Application development Mindfire Solutions can be your partner of choice. We have a team of highly skilled and certified software professionals, who have developed many custom solutions for our global clients over the years.

#software development #software testing #api testing services #python developers #php web development #python development company

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usindistress · 3 months ago

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@posttexasstressdisorder Okay, being actually fair here, she didn't. Ivanka Trump applied for a Chinese trademark for International Class 20 (furniture and cushions) which just happens to also include coffins. And she got a Class 22, which is basically large, rollable plastic & fiber goods that AREN'T clothing, (tarps, tents, fishing nets) which happens to include bodybags. Ans he got a Class 9, miscellaneous high-dollar consumer goods (sun glasses, cell phone cases, video games) and that category also includes voting machines. Now her acquisition of these trademarks IS suspicious in itself and likely included a quip-pro-quo from the Trump administration. Likely enacted in not prosecuting trade violations by Chinese corporate giant ZTE.

#donald trump #incompetence #unqualified #terrible president #threats to democracy #disease #disaster #epidemic

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myrefersofficial · 2 years ago

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2023 Digital Marketing Trends To Take Advantage Of

As we dive deep into 2023, digital marketing trends continue to evolve and grow in importance. With the increasing use of technology, businesses must stay up-to-date with the latest trends to remain competitive. This article will discuss the top digital marketing trends businesses should take advantage of to stay ahead of the curve.

Top 10 Digital Marketing Trends Of 2023

#1 Personalized Marketing

Personalization has been a growing trend for years, but it will continue to become more important in 2023. With so many options available to consumers, businesses must make their products and services stand out. Personalization can help achieve this by tailoring content to specific consumers based on their interests and demographics.

To implement personalized marketing, businesses can use data analysis tools to collect and analyze customer data. This data can then create customized marketing campaigns that appeal to individual customers. For example, a clothing company can use customer data to recommend products based on previous purchases, search history, etc.

#2 Customized And Automatic Email Marketing

As the name implies, automated email marketing is sending emails to your customers regularly based on predefined triggers or timelines. An email has traditionally been the most dependable digital marketing method. Promotional emails are an excellent approach to informing your clients about your company's achievements or future sales.

Unfortunately, most consumers have stopped responding to promotional emails due to the abuse of bulk email approaches. Customized emails are a wonderful approach to recovering customers' attention and increasing consumer engagement. You can take the example of this customized email from American Eagle.

#3 Voice Search Optimization

Voice search is becoming increasingly popular with the rise of smart home devices and virtual assistants. It is estimated that by 2023, 8 billion voice assistants will be used worldwide. It presents a significant opportunity for businesses to optimize their content for voice search. You can use AI tools using voice commands which is really great for marketing projects.

To optimize voice search, businesses should focus on conversational language and long-tail keywords. It is because voice search queries are longer and more conversational than typed searches. Additionally, businesses can use structured data markup to provide search engines with more context about their content.

#4 The Magic Of Metaverse

Meta (Facebook) is the current owner of the Metaverse, commonly called a virtual world within a world. It is a previously unknown digital cosmos in which virtual realities combine to create an interactive experience for all. Creating a digital version of oneself in a future world where you may do whatever you want appears to share many similarities with video games.

Because of a network of realities or virtual universes where space exists practically everywhere, social trading is now possible. As a result, today's digital marketers have discovered a method to fill that hole and develop a completely new type of digital marketing. This meta trend is really going to create magic in the marketing world.

#5 Programmatic Advertising

To obtain digital advertisements, programmatic ad buying is used. In contrast, automated buying is a procedure that uses algorithms and machines to purchase advertisements rather than human participation. AI-assisted programmatic advertising allows advertisers to target their desired audiences.

Automation provides long-term benefits such as greater conversion rates and lower customer acquisition expenditures. Real-time bidding, a programmatic ad-buying technique that enables more precise and quick targeting, can buy and sell ads on a case-by-case basis. It will reduce human efforts and increase efficiency.

#6 Employee Advocacy

Employee advocacy is getting your team or employees to talk and share on behalf of the company. More and more firms recognize the value of their staff. Employee personal profiles and assets are frequently more effective than business accounts and assets at reaching more people more honestly. What are your options now?

Using this capacity is a hitherto unexplored possibility, particularly in business-to-business (B2B) marketing. Assess the potential for employees to contribute to your marketing activities and devise a strategy to involve them. An engagement plan will often contain training, tools, and resources to motivate and excite employees to speak on the company's behalf.

#7 LinkedIn As A B2B Powerhouse

LinkedIn has been around for a long time but has recently experienced record growth and engagement. It is estimated to account for 25% of B2B advertising in two years. Businesses are increasingly able to use the platform to expand. Despite this, very few businesses take advantage of it.

LinkedIn will continue to grow, and its potential will expand. Get in early to win disproportionately. Strategically incorporate LinkedIn into your goals. Improve your content. Expand your audience and look for additional features and possibilities to help you succeed faster.

#8 Influencer Marketing

Influencers are individuals with a large social media following and can be used to reach a wider audience. To implement influencer marketing, businesses should identify relevant influencers and partner with them to promote their products or services. Influencers can be used for various purposes, such as product reviews and affiliate marketing.

#9 Augmented And Virtual Reality

AR and VR allow users to experience digital content more immersively. They are becoming more popular in 2023 because they can provide customers with a unique and engaging experience. To implement AR and VR, businesses can create apps or experiences that allow customers to interact with their products or services in a more immersive way.

#10 Interactive Content

Interactive content is a type of content that encourages user participation, such as quizzes, polls, and surveys. It is becoming more popular in 2023 because it can increase engagement and provide valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors. It is a great idea to engage customers with your products or services.

The digital marketing landscape will evolve rapidly in 2023, and businesses must stay current with the latest trends to remain competitive. Businesses can create interactive content through interactive video platforms, quiz builders, and survey tools. You can also use interactive content to gather customer feedback.

Stay One Step Ahead Of The Competition

The latest developments in digital marketing emphasize sharing experiences to produce superior goods, advertise and market those goods effectively, and provide improved service to customers. To maintain one's position at the forefront of digital marketing as we enter 2023, one must be familiar with the current trends in digital marketing and prepare oneself for emerging digital marketing trends.

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64bitgamer · 2 years ago

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rogersip · 2 years ago

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JD Sports, Tessuti, Tessuti, and JD Gyms

Founded in 1983, JD Sports has a large portfolio of products, both online and in-store. In addition to its gym equipment and sportswear, the company also offers a wide range of fitness-related services. The brand's multichannel approach to retailing has helped it to achieve significant success in the United Kingdom. As the company continues to grow, its presence is expanding abroad, too.

Founded in 1983

The year 1983 was a historic one. Space missions were being launched by the likes of NASA and the Soviet Space program, the IRA was causing problems in the UK and the video game industry was still a fledgling. This was also the decade when the internet was being born. During this time, the one of the first large scale commercial BIOS was developed by Phoenix and the first commercially available tape drive was the QIC standard.

A few months later, in January of 1984, the neophyte Rich Linton applied IBM technology to Snyder Irrigation and launched the company's first irrigation system. During this period, Rich did not have a big budget, but had a clear objective: to produce the next big thing in the world of agriculture.

Stores in the United Kingdom

JD Sports is the largest sports fashion retailer in the UK. It has a presence in over 900 stores worldwide and a strong online presence. It offers a wide range of brands, including Nike, Puma, Adidas and Converse. The company's flagship store is located in Bury, Greater Manchester.

JD Sports was founded in 1981 by John Wardle and David Makin. Initially the sportswear specialist focused on providing a range of sporting equipment, but it soon diversified to sports fashions.

In the early 1990s, the JD Sports store chain expanded its retail network. It acquired branded stores in Asia, Europe and North America. By the end of the decade, the number of stores grew to 149.

Multichannel retailing

JD Sports is one of the leading multichannel retailing companies in the world. With over 850 stores in 19 countries, the company sells branded sportswear, trainers, casual wear and leisurewear. The company also provides a full range of fitness equipment at affordable prices.

JD Sports is a leader in the sports industry, and has earned a reputation for high quality and innovation. Using its expertise, the retailer offers a seamless shopping experience across all channels.

The company has made several important acquisitions. One of the first was its purchase of sportswear retailer DLTR in February. This was a key element of its expansion plan.

Tessuti

Tessuti is a clothing chain with stores across the United Kingdom. It provides designer collections for both men and women. In addition to clothes, the store offers a range of accessories such as t-shirts and hoodies.

The company has grown in popularity throughout the UK. It also operates a web presence. This has allowed the company to develop a reputation as a 'one stop shop' for the consumer.

A number of other retailers are also part of the JD Sports Fashion portfolio. These include Finish Line, Originals, Go Outdoors, Chausport, Sports Zone, Footpatrol, Scotts and Size.

Tessuti has also become a key part of the strategy of the JD Sports PLC. In November 2015, the company acquired premium menswear brand Infinities and retail business Aspecto. After purchasing these brands, JD Sports Fashion rebranded them under the Tessuti name.

JD Gyms

It may be surprising to learn that JD Gyms is actually a spin off of the JD Sports fashion brand. The name may be a mouthful, but the high end fitness center has been making waves in East Lancashire for a while now. There are currently four sites in the region: Bolton, Preston, Thornton-Cleveleys, and Rochdale. Some of the latest additions include a 20,000 square foot facility in Burnley. One of the first in the area, this gym will boast hundreds of pieces of high tech equipment. In addition to a ladies only gym area, there will be saunas in the changing rooms.

App

The JD Sports App has a lot of functions. From checking out the latest sportswear to finding out which stores have the best deals, it's a one stop shop for the most up to date information. But you might have to go through a few steps before you actually see the full benefits.

First of all, you'll need to make sure you have a stable mobile connection. If you aren't, you might have trouble loading the app, or you may have to restart it. That's not to say you can't use the app, but you may have to wait a while before you're ready to buy.

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cadyrocks · 1 year ago

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I'm not sure I understand this argument. Where is it "illegal to do capitalism"? The pattern I've been seeing recently is capitalism and wealthy investors getting involved in something and completely ruining it for everyone else. Name an industry and odds are good it's gotten significantly worse because it being worse made someone money. Video games are infested with psychological manipulation to hook people on I-Can't-Believe-It's-Not-Gambling. It's increasingly difficult to find quality clothing. Treating housing as a store of value rather than a human need had led to an explosion of homelessness and an entire generation that will likely never own a home as they're outcompeted by bloodsuckers who are already wealthy and want to earn some sweet, sweet passive income. We're facing down ecological collapse because we couldn't rein in the way oil companies own our representatives. Indeed, if you're wealthy enough, bribing lobbying members of the government tends to be an amazing investment, with ROIs as high as 22000%. Do I even need to bring up the US medical system?

Hell, capitalists aren't shy about how much they hate having to compete in a free market. Ask Peter Thiel, or Warren Buffett. Competition gets in the way of profits, because if there's competition, you have to provide a better product, and locking people in with switching costs and enshittifying everything for your own benefit is a more profitable business model. You are technically able and allowed to try to break into those markets, but you will be targeted for acquisition or destruction as soon as you do. This is also well-documented, for example when Amazon sold diapers at a loss to force diapers.com out of business because they wouldn't sell.

I dunno, maybe I'm misunderstanding you. Maybe you're thinking about things like zoning laws making it hard to build more housing... But even if more housing is built, it'll still be more valuable as rental investments than actual homes. When people can vote with their dollars, the people with the most dollars will inevitably win.

(related to this post)

Let's say you're a blogger who thinks the widespread pessimism about the future in the West (especially among the young and/or highly-educated) is both unjustified and dangerous for society, and you want to try and push back on it. Great. I support you. I think it's a noble mission, and even though I'm sort of a pessimist myself, I do think a lot of the common arguments for pessimism you see are wrong or at least highly incomplete.

But for Chrissake, when you make your arguments for "why things are good and getting better, actually" you have got to stop bringing up poverty statistics from developing countries. Nobody cares. No. Bo. Dy. Cares. For the average downwardly-mobile USian/European Zillennial staring down the barrel of climate change, housing costs, public debt etc., telling them "but look at what has happened to peasants in western China!" is going to get you shrugs at best and negatively-polarizing anger at worst.

You can argue they should care, and you can argue the fact that they don't care is evidence of hypocrisy and a lack of actual belief in universalism on their part — but why? Are you trying to get Sick Dunks on them, or actually win hearts and minds? As I said in the linked post, nobody has ever changed their mind on a political question because someone on the other side of it called them a hypocrite. It just makes people defensive and angry. If you're serious about changing minds instead of scoring points, you've gotta find another way to engage.

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samwisethewitch · 4 years ago

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Keeping Consumerism out of Your Craft

Consumerism is a set of socioeconomic conditions and attitudes that encourage the continual acquisitions of goods and services. There is no “enough” in a consumerist society — members of the society are constantly pushed to buy new things, pay for new services, and keep up with the latest trends.

There are a few reasons consumerism is bad news. For one thing, it’s terrible for the environment — consumerist cultures usually have linear economies, where resources are extracted, consumed, then discarded, with no effort to replenish them. This is highly unsustainable, because at some point those limited resources are going to run out. Consumerism also has a human cost, as it often leads to the use of sweatshops, which violate basic labor laws. In many sweatshops, workers are not paid a livable wage, children are employed as workers, and working conditions are unsafe. Companies in countries like the United States get around labor laws by outsourcing labor to other (poorer) places. Consumerism also contributes to classism, as the acquisition of expensive items is often treated as a status symbol.

Consumerism is present in nearly every aspect of Western culture, and this includes spirituality and witchcraft. There are multiple “Beginner Witch Kits” for sale from Amazon and other online retailers which include candles, crystals, and incense — which is great, as long as that’s all stuff you’ll actually use in your practice. (I mean, do you really need twelve different varieties of incense?) Witchy authors and bloggers often treat magic like a matching game, where every problem requires a very specific herb or crystal. YouTube is full of “witch hauls,” videos solely dedicated to showing off new purchases. All of this contributes to a commercialized witchy aesthetic, which can only be achieved by buying the tools of the trade.

I get it. Shopping is fun, especially when you’re still learning about magic and magical items. It’s exciting to search for the perfect crystal or incense blend, especially if you have a local metaphysical store where you can shop in person. But owning the right stuff doesn’t make you a witch. All you need to practice magic is your will — everything else is optional.

I’m not saying every witch should be a hardcore minimalist, or that you can never buy new things. What I am saying is that all of us, witches or not, need to be more mindful of how we spend our money and the impact of our purchases on the world around us.

How to Avoid Consumerism

If you’re considering buying something, ask yourself if you’ll really get use out of it. For example, I don’t use a lot of tools in my practice because I prefer to work with my hands, so it wouldn’t make sense for me to buy an expensive wand or ritual knife. Don’t feel like you have to buy something just because another witch uses it — if you don’t think you’ll use it, don’t buy it.

Don’t buy multiples of the same tool. Instead of buying multiple different colored altar cloths for different times of year, buy one white altar cloth you can use year-round. Instead of buying multiple tarot decks, find one or two you really enjoy working with. You get the idea. (Obviously, there will be some items you need more than one of, like spell candles. This rule applies more to tools that can be reused.)

Replace things as they run out instead of buying them before you need them. Buying things in bulk can lead to unnecessary waste and drawers full of unused magical supplies. Buy things you know you’ll really use, and only buy one or two at a time. Use up the items you have before you buy more.

Invest in items that have multiple uses. For example, most kitchen spices can also be used in spells — search your spice cabinet before ordering special ingredients online. There are some items that have multiple magical uses, like rosemary and salt. Buy a couple of these multitaskers instead of a large collection of herbs with very specific uses.

Use the “two week” rule. This is something I do to keep myself from making impulse purchases. If I think I want to buy something online, I wait two weeks before I order it. If I still want it after two weeks, I take that as a sign that I’ll actually get some use from it.

Go “shopping” in your backyard. Familiarize yourself with the plants, animals, and minerals that are native to your area and go foraging for spell supplies instead of buying them. Items you can probably find near your home that could be used in ritual include leaves and flowers, pine cones, seed pods, tree branches, rocks, and naturally shed feathers. Just make sure you never harvest enough of a plant to hurt it, and make sure you properly disinfect any animal products you pick up.

If you can, make it yourself. Not only does making your own magic items save money, it also creates a much stronger personal link between you and that item. You can grow your own magical herbs in a garden or in indoor pots. Many common magical tools, like brooms and wands, are easy to make at home with some basic craft skills. Making your own items also means you can customize them, tailoring them to your own craft.

If you can’t make it yourself, but it used. There are some items you can’t reasonably make yourself, like incense burners, cauldrons, and books on the craft. But you can find most of these items used, either in thrift stores or online on websites like Ebay and Depop. Buying used almost always ends up being cheaper than buying new, and because you’re buying items already in circulation you aren’t contributing to a linear economy. Thrifting is also a great way to find unique items that won’t be like what anyone else has on their altar.

If you can’t find it used, support a small business. Sometimes, you can’t make what you need or find it in a thrift store. In that case, buying from a small business is preferable to buying from a big retailer like Amazon. When you support a small business, you’re supporting an individual rather than contributing to some CEO’s massive yearly bonus. A lot of small business owners make their items themselves, which avoids sweatshop labor. Pretty much everything I buy new for my craft comes from Etsy sellers — there are a LOT of witches on Etsy, so with a little digging you can easily find exactly what you’re looking for!

Don’t buy crystals. I know, I know. Thanks to social media, large crystal collections have become synonymous with witchcraft. But the crystal trade is highly unethical, with unsustainable mining techniques, dangerous working conditions, and child labor. Because of a lack of regulations, it’s virtually impossible to find crystals that are truly ethically sourced. Most sellers don’t know where their crystals come from and can’t guarantee that no workers were harmed in their extraction. No stone is worth the health and safety of other human beings, no matter how pretty.

Avoiding consumerism in your witchcraft means being less reliant on tools and set dressing. This will allow you to rely on your own energy and will, which will lead to a deeper and more meaningful spiritual practice.

Resources:

Revolutionary Witchcraft by Sarah Lyons

Simply Living Well by Julia Watkins

“11 Facts About Sweatshops” on dosomething.org

“Child labour in the fashion supply chain” from The Guardian

“Bangladesh factory collapse toll passes 1,000” from BBC News

“Are crystals the new blood diamonds?” from The Guardian

“Dark crystals: the brutal reality behind a booming wellness craze” from The Guardian

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somewhatgreatexpectations · 4 years ago

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I'll Stand By You (Wanda Maximoff/ Reader)

Hello! We've reached Halloween in Westview. I hope you all enjoy!

Songs used: "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders (1994) and "This I Promise You" by NSYNC (2000)

Summary: Westview is slowly falling apart as Wanda worries reader is drifting away. With some sibling chaos. I'm bad at summaries. :)

With a sigh, you began making your way downstairs, following the sounds of the commotion. Wearily tugging at the skin-tight suit that you couldn’t seem to avoid wearing for the day.

“Woah, smokin’ costume, sis-in-law!” You heard Pietro whistle which only made you sigh again in exasperation. “If you weren’t already married to witchy over here…” He trailed off as he leaned against the wall.

You rolled your eyes, biting back a chuckle when you saw Anna smack his shoulder. “That’s my sister you’re talking to.” She warned, glaring at Pietro who just laughed in response.

“You and Mom look nice, Momma.” Billy said sweetly with a smile which you easily returned. Reaching over to affectionately ruffle his hair.

“Yeah, Mom is old Red Riding Hood and you’re old green riding hood, Momma.” Charlie said with a laugh, looking at Pietro for approval who merely held up a hand for a high five. You clutched your chest to feign hurt and gave Anna a disbelieving stare when she began to laugh as well.

Much to your annoyance Pietro then turned his attention back to you. “Let me guess, you’re a… woodland fairy queen? Or the woman of my dreams?” He finished with a wiggle of his eyebrows.

“Pietro.” Wanda warned. Anna smacked him in the back of the head.

“Yes, that’s exactly what I was going for, Pietro. I live to visually please you.” You quipped back sarcastically.

Before he could say anything else, Wanda walked over to you. Leaning in and pressing a kiss to your lips which you shortly returned. “Thank you for humoring me and wearing this… dramatic get-up, honey.”

“Well, there were no other clothes in my closet, so…” You replied flatly, watching the way Wanda’s smile faltered. Unable to stand seeing the look on her face, you attempted to lighten your tone. “I knew you had a thing for me in tights.”

Her shoulders relaxed when you posed dramatically and sent a teasing smile her way. “I have a thing for you in general.” Wanda said in a husky voice, a small smirk on her lips.

Leaning in closer you matched her smirk, “What a coincidence because I just so happen to have a thing for you as well.”

Wanda let out a quiet giggle and you smiled adoringly at the way her nose scrunched. As Wanda was leaning in again, you turned to face the rest of the family in the living room. Wanda sighed.

A short laugh escaped your lips as you watched Billy and Anna cover Pietro and Charlie’s eyes in a desperate bid to win the video game that they were playing. The laughter faded when you watched Pietro pull out sodas, teaching the twins how to chug the can and then burp much to your annoyance. Anna threw her own can at Pietro’s head.

“It’s wonderful that our siblings are so…” You paused as you watched the four begin wrestling for the remote. “Great with kids.”

Wanda nodded unconvincingly as she watched the scene by your side. “Yeah... They’re just full of surprises.”

Lightly you pat her shoulder as you stepped around her. “Well, good luck with them tonight. I’m sure it’ll be entertaining to say the least.”

Wanda turned to face you, a frown tugging down at the corners of her lips. “What?” She followed after you as you made your way to the door. “What do you mean? You’re all dressed and ready to go.”

You gestured vaguely to yourself. “I’m undercover. Ellie said there’s been mischief running amuck in the community and she suspects neighborhood watch. An inside job, Wanda! I'm an investigative journalist now.” Dramatically you tossed your cape over your shoulder for emphasis.

The frown on Wanda’s face remained as she shook her head lightly, “But that’s not what you’re supposed to…”

Skeptically you eyed Wanda. “What do you mean supposed to?”

“You didn’t tell me you had plans.” She eventually grumbled in annoyance, ignoring the question entirely.

“Well, I’m telling you now.” You replied with a small shrug.

Her eyes gleamed with frustration as if she couldn’t believe the words you were saying. “It’s the twins first Halloween. You have to be there.”

Anna and Pietro stepped over before you could get a word out. “Woah, what’s the big deal?” Pietro asked as he teasingly placing his hands in between you both like you were about to start fighting. “I’m much more fun than Y/n. No offense, you’re still smokin’.” He winked your way and you gagged.

Anna pushed him away and turned to Wanda with a reassuring smile. “It’s okay, Wanda. We can help with the twins. It’ll still be fun.”

“Uncle Petey to the rescue, huh?” Pietro added with a goofy grin.

You clapped his shoulder and turned to Wanda. “Sure… Petey. Problem solved. Have a spooky time tonight, kiddos. I love you!” You called out to Billy and Charlie who were engrossed in their game.

“Love you.” They called back distractedly, never taking their eyes off the screen.

Hesitantly you stepped back over to Wanda, ignoring the gloomy expression on her face as you lightly caressed her cheek.

With a small smile you leaned in and kissed her other check. “Be good.” You whispered before pulling away. Once again, you posed dramatically, smirking when Wanda begrudgingly replicated the action. “Time to solve this case!” With a final toss of your cape you left.

Wanda’s shoulders drooped slightly as the door closed behind you. Seconds later, you poked your head back in. “I forgot to say… you look beautiful, my love.” You called out sincerely, sending a wink Wanda’s way before shutting the door behind yourself again.

The blush on Wanda’s cheeks made both Pietro and Anna smirk in amusement.

____________

“Unleash hell, demon spawn!” Pietro called after the twins with a smile as they walked off to one of the houses with Anna. He furrowed his eyebrows questioningly when he noticed Wanda staring at him.

Wanda attempted to force an easygoing smile on her lips. “Do you remember when we were at the orphanage and there was this song that we used to sing? The one that would play on the radio whenever the soldiers radio frequencies would interfere with the our frequencies? It went like,” Pietro just stared, his head tilted slightly. “Let me come along, ‘cause even if you’re wrong-”

“-I’ll stand by you, I’ll stand by you. Won’t let nobody hurt you. I’ll stand by you.”

You sat patiently outside the door, the music playing quietly on your phone to break up the silence that surrounded you. And possibly send a message to the woman who was currently ignoring you.

Natasha walked over and kneeled by your side. “Are you planning on staying out here all night?” In response you lifted your shoulders slightly in a small shrug. “You should at least eat something.”

“I’m not hungry.” You murmured, spinning the rings on your fingers absently.

With a sigh Natasha stood up and gently pat your head. “I’m going to bring you both food. And I expect you both to eat, even if you aren’t talking right now.”

Almost as soon as Natasha had walked away the door behind you opened, causing you to fall backwards. “You can turn the cheesy 90s music off now. I get it.” Wanda said quietly, her posture tense.

You scrambled to shut the music off and rushed to your feet. “Hi.” You said nervously.

From where you stood you could see Wanda fight a smile. “You’ve been sat outside my room for three hours and all you came up with was hi?”

Shyly you rubbed your arm. “I did have a whole speech planned out in my head but looking at you now I can’t seem to think of anything other than you.”

Wanda melted with your words and you could see the frustration in her eyes begin to fade away. “Did you really mean what you said? That you don’t care?”

Tentatively you reached out and took her hands. “Never. Not about you. I was talking about myself. I will care about you forever.” Care was a placeholder for what you truly wanted to say and you both knew it. "I'm sorry for making you think I didn't."

With a sigh, Wanda pulled you into her arms. “Well I care about you, so if you care about me you also have to care about yourself.”

You buried your face in her neck, breathing in her sweet scent. “Okay. I care...” You mumbled letting the silence wash over the moment. “Did we just have our first fight? I hated every minute of that.”

Wanda’s chuckled slightly. “Yeah. Me too…” Her eyes shone brightly with amusement as she gently tilted your head up to meet her lips, finding comfort in your touch.

You were her safety.

Impatiently Pietro snapped his fingers in Wanda’s face, squinting his eyes slightly at her expression. “You’re testing me.” He said flatly with a knowing point of his finger.

Wanda quickly feigned innocence, still shaking away the memory that had filled her mind. “No, I’m not.” She insisted.

Wanda was testing him though. She knew he wouldn’t know that song. He shouldn’t have.

In response he waved a hand dismissively as he gestured vaguely to his face. “Hey, it’s cool. I know I look different.”

Unable to help herself, Wanda nodded. Her brows furrowed. “Why do you look different?”

Pietro shrugged. “You tell me. I mean, if I found Shangri-La I wouldn’t want to be reminded of the past either.” Wanda looked back at him pensively.

Anna then rushed back with the twins. “Your turn, Uncle Petey!” She exclaimed patting Pietro on the shoulder.

“Alright, Uncle Petey’s about to maximize your candy acquisition. Not like your lame Aunt Annie over here.” He joked, ruffling Anna’s hair who just smacked his hand away. He offered a hand to Charlie who eagerly took it as Billy linked on.

Before Wanda could even blink they had sped away. “I’m beginning to think he’s a bad influence.”

Anna spun around to face her. “Beginning? I hate to break it to you, Wanda, but between the two of us I’m the only good role model here.”

Wanda just shook her head in amusement when someone in the distance caught her attention. “I’ll be right back, Anna.” Anna nodded and ran to try to catch up to the twins. Wanda made her way over to the person of interest. “Hello, Ellie.”

Ellie turned to face Wanda a mild look of surprise covering her features. “Hi, Wanda. Where’s your lovely wife?”

The polite smile that Wanda had grown so accustomed to made an appearance. “Oh, it’s okay you don’t have to be secretive. Y/n told me about the undercover piece about neighborhood watch that you have her working on.”

Curiously Ellie quirked her eyebrows. “I haven’t assigned Y/n to any undercover pieces.”

Wanda’s smile wavered slightly. “Oh. I thought… I thought she…” Her lips pulled down slightly in thought.

Ellie shifted nervously in the silence as her brows furrowed in concern. “Is there something I can do for you, Wanda?” She continued on before Wanda could utter a response. “Do you want something changed?”

A confused chuckle fell from Wanda’s lips. “No. It’s fine. I must have just misheard her this morning.”

“If you say so. Tell Y/n I said hello.” Ellie finally replied, sending a wink Wanda’s way as she walked off.

“Hey, that woman looked so much like Amelia. Y/n loved her.” Wanda jumped at Anna’s sudden appearance. Her eyes clouded over when she processed what the teenage girl had just said.

__________________

“This is so lame. I can’t believe you’re making them return all the candy.” Pietro grumbled with a roll of his eyes.

Wanda crossed her arms indignantly. “Well, I can’t believe what a bad influence you are.”

“That’s why I’m better.” Anna added in a sing song voice.

Pietro sneered. “Oh, shut it, pipsqueak. We’re here to do the exact same thing, okay? Come to town unexpectedly, create tension with the sis-in-law, stir up trouble with the rugrats and ultimately… Give Wanda grief.”

Anna huffed when Wanda looked at her suspiciously. “I mean, that’s what you wanted, isn’t it?” She asked, her tone dripping with irritation that was a stark contrast to her positive attitude earlier.

The confusion at the situation caused Wanda to purse her lips as she allowed herself to consider the two people before her. “Anna, weren’t you six when Hydra… I mean, you weren’t a teenager when you…” She trailed off slightly, not wanting to finish the thought.

The younger girl rolled her eyes defensively. “Look, that was years ago. I aged. That’s what happens inn life, isn’t it?” Anna crossed her arms when Wanda didn't seem convinced. “I don’t know, okay?”

Wanda frowned slightly then turned her attention to Pietro. “And you. What happened to your accent?”

“What happened to yours?” Pietro countered defensively. He sighed when Wanda leveled him with an unimpressed stare. “Look. Details are fuzzy, man. For both of us. All I remember is getting shot like a chump in the streets for no reason at all. Next thing I know, I heard you calling us.”

Anna stepped forward, nodding along with Pietro. “We knew you needed us.”

The words hung in the air like an unanswered question. “Uncle P, Auntie A, guess what?” Charlie shouted excitedly effectively ending the conversation as she rushed over with Billy.

“There’s a treasure bag with full sized candy bars on the lamp post!” Billy pointed up eagerly at the post that was hanging directly above their heads. “Mom, can you help us get it?”

The sound of metal crunching filled the air as Charlie waved a hand. The lamppost giving way easily as she skipped over and took the bag off the light. “Next stop, Cavity Town!” She cheered as she walked back over and passed one of the treats to Billy.

“My niece is a badass!” Pietro hollered as he lifted Charlie on his shoulders. Wanda couldn't help the pride that bubbled in her chest as she watched her daughter's powers develop. She wished you would have been there to see it too. “Just like your uncle P! Chip off the old Maximoff block!”

Anna coughed pointedly. “Manipulating earth and metal? Sounds a lot like the badass comes from my genes.”

“It’s okay, baby. You can take it slow, and you can-” Wanda’s words were interrupted as Charlie began flying through the sky, cheering all the while. Wanda shook her head in amusement at the way Charlie smoothly flew through the air, her smile unwavering.

Billy watched his twin excitedly which Wanda took note of.

When Charlie floated too low, Wanda grabbed her foot and gently pulled her down. “If you’re going to explore, please just take your brother with you.” Wanda said seriously.

“Really?” Billy asked happily.

“Really?” Charlie repeated with a pout.

Wanda bit back a smile as she nodded. “Really. And please, just remember-”

“Don’t go past Ellis Avenue.” They responded in unison.

“We know, Mom. We know.” Charlie said dismissively as she offered her hand to Billy and a moment later they floated into the air.

Pietro and Anna shook their heads. “Be careful! I love you!” Wanda shouted after the twins.

_________________

For the past several hours a feeling of discomfort had settled in your chest as you wandered the city of Westview. The feeling reached its breaking point when you watched a woman frozen in time, replicating the same action again and again. The moment solidified your resolve. You needed to see what was outside this city. To see if all these odd occurrences were just that… odd occurrences.

You didn’t want to believe it was Wanda. It couldn’t be.

In a bid of desperation, you took advantage of one of your new-found skills and allowed yourself to fly into the skies of Westview. Everything looked completely normal... Except for one set of lights stopped strangely at the edge of the town.

Curiosity got the better of you as you flew over to investigate the scene. The sight of the stalled car unnerved you as you wearily made your way over to the driver’s side. “Agnes? What are you doing here?”

Despite the question, Agnes continued to stare off into the distance, almost as if you weren’t there at all. “Took a wrong turn.” She lifted her shoulders in a slight shrug. You worriedly took note of the way her eyes were glossed over with unshed tears despite her face being completely void of emotion. “Got lost.”

Her words were monotonous which was so out of character for the woman you’d seen before. You frowned. “Lost? In the town you grew up in?” There was no response from the other woman as she continued to stare blankly ahead. Your fingers tingled with uneasy energy. “I wonder…” Hesitantly you lifted your hand until it hovered over her temple. You closed your eyes as you focused, becoming one with the earth’s current until a short burst of light drifted from the tips of your fingers into the side of Agnes’ temple.

With a gasp, she sprung back to life. Agnes desperately took your hands, pulling you down. “You! You’re one of the Avengers! Are you here to help us?”

“I do want to help.” You assured her. “But what’s an Avenger?”

Agnes pulled her hands away as if she’d been burned. “What? Why don’t you know?” Suddenly she began patting herself down anxiously. “Am I dead?”

Your brows furrowed in concern. “No, no, why would you think that?”

There was a brief pause before Agnes turned her attention back to you. “Because you are.”

The tightness in your chest increased tenfold. “I am what?”

“Dead. You’re dead. Dead, Dead!” Agnes shouted hysterically causing you to flinch back involuntarily.

Determinedly you pushed forward again, ignoring her words. “Agnes, I want to help. I’m going to get help. To reach someone outside of Westview and figure everything out.”

“How? No one leaves. Wanda won’t even let us think about it.” Manic laughter startled you into silence as she continued. “All is lost. We’ll never escape her.”

Despite numerous attempts to call out to her, Agnes’ laughter never stopped. The unsteady tingling in your fingers began again as you took a deep breath and grounded yourself with the earth once more. You lifted your hand to her temple and almost as soon as the light entered her temple the laughter stopped.

“I will fix this.” You declared softly.

A caricature of a smile overcame her features. “Alrighty, neighbor!” She said as she turned the car around. “Happy Halloweenie!”

With a new sense of determination, you marched forward into the open field in the distance. The soft buzzing of static becoming louder and louder the further into the field you ventured.

Cautiously you reached a hand out to touch where the sound seemed to be coming from only to be met with resistance even though nothing was there. Confusion took hold of your emotions as you watched the costume you were wearing transform into your typical clothes as you pushed your arm through the energy barrier.

Knowing this was the only way, you pushed forward, feeling as if your mind was being wiped clean the further you walked.

The pain was becoming unbearable, but you knew you couldn’t turn back.

As the pain worsened, a quiet song began playing in your mind, almost as it was attempting to comfort you.

“Hey, hey, it’s okay. Look at me.” A soft hand on your face tilted your chin up. Her eyes were flooded with worry but her gentle touch brought you comfort. “This might hurt a bit, but we have to do this.”

A soft groan fell from your lips as you could feel the first stitch begin to close your wound. “Wait, wait.” You hissed, pushing her hand away from your bleeding side.

Her fingers gently brushed through your hair. “Y/n. You’re bleeding, we need to stitch this up now.” You knew she was right, but you still wanted to roll away. The woman quickly scrambled to her feet, stepping away for a moment before rushing back with a small device in her hands. “Here. Focus on the music. Focus on me. Not on the pain.”

“I've loved you forever, in lifetimes before and I promise never will you hurt anymore. I give you my word, I give you my heart. This is a battle we’ve won and with this vow, forever has now begun…”

When the song from the radio reached your ears, a choked laugh fell from your lips despite the pain you were in. “Did you plan for the cheesiest 90s song to play?”

In response she smiled ever so slightly, but her eyes remained focused on the task. “I didn’t, I swear. Guess I just got lucky.”

“Yeah. Me too…”

Staring up at her made it impossible for you to focus on anything else as you processed the words that floated from the radio. She was done before the song had even finished. You didn’t feel a thing.

“I didn’t see they were government agents.” You murmured guiltily after a moment as you watched her wrap your now stitched up side.

Her concerned eyes met yours. “Y/n, I don’t blame you. I’m just glad you’re okay. I was so scared I wouldn’t get there in time. That I wouldn’t be able to protect you. I... care about you.” Her words were sincere as her thumb lightly caressed your cheek. The placeholder word from your past making a comeback.

The small box of a room that was your newest hideout was dingy, but with her here it was the most beautiful place in the world.

Your chest tightened with familiar feelings that you spent so long avoiding. “Can you hold me?” You looked away as you asked, still not used to the vulnerability.

“Of course.” She breathed out, carefully helping you to bed before gathering you in her arms. Her heartbeat against your ear was the sweetest song you had ever heard. You had never felt safer than when you were in her arms.

Wanda was your safety.

“Wanda.” You gasped out, feeling yourself refocus on the current world around you as thoughts of Wanda flashed through your mind. Of Wanda smiling. Of Wanda laughing. Of Wanda crying. It was all there again.

Until it wasn’t.

With a gasp you fell to the floor, clutching your head, feeling yourself – your mind - begin to fade away.

“Why aren’t you helping her? Something is wrong with her, she needs help!” You heard a voice scream anxiously. You looked up just in time to see the woman get held back by someone. “Steve! Natasha! Help her!” She cried out holding her ear as a man tugged her arm down and handcuffed her to a car.

Despite the pain coursing through your veins you continued to weakly crawl forward. The threat of losing consciousness and the sense of who you were increasing the further out you moved from the barrier. “Th-they need h-elp.” You gritted out, not remembering why, but knowing it was why you were there. One of your arms gave out from under you as you fought to keep your eyes open.

The bespectacled woman watched you with growing concern, tugging desperately at the handcuffs that kept her in place. “Steve, Natasha, you need to hurry.” She said quietly, her eyes widening when you fell to the floor.

Everything went dark.

__________________

There was a comfortable silence in the air and Wanda could almost allow herself to relax as she sat on one of the bales of hay while the twins played on their own in the town square.

Almost.

“Where were you hiding all these kids up until now?” Pietro suddenly questioned with a smirk.

“What?” Wanda replied in surprise.

Anna leaned back on her hands, feigning amusement. “I assume she let them all sleep peacefully in their beds.” She picked at the hay in disinterest. “No need to traumatize beyond the occasional holiday cameo, right?”

Pietro rolled his eyes. “Hey, back off. She’s the empathetic twin.”

“I don’t-… I didn’t-” Wanda stuttered. Anna smirked slightly.

Waving his hands dismissively, Pietro continued. “She handled all the ethical considerations of this scenario as best she could.” Wanda’s mind seemed to be put at ease as Pietro’s speech continued. “Families and couples stayed together, most personalities are the same, people got better jobs. Better style, for sure.”

Flicking a piece of hay at Pietro’s head, Anna added. “Convincing my sister that she’s in love with her.”

Wanda turned her head sharply at Anna’s words. “What do you mean convincing? Y/n loves me.” Her brows furrowed as she considered Anna’s words. “She does.”

A laugh fell from Anna’s lips. “You can cut the act, Wanda. Pietro and I know everything.”

“I’m not acting. Y/n and I love each other.” Wanda defended quietly, trying desperately not to let Anna’s words get to her.

Anna shrugged. “If that’s what you need to tell yourself. Y/n was in love with Amelia- sorry, you renamed her Ellie.” She smirked when she saw Wanda’s fingers flex slightly. “They were soulmates. They made the best team. I’ve never seen Y/n more in love than she was with her.”

Wanda’s jaw clenched, and Anna’s smirk grew.

“Do it. Make her go away.” Pietro encouraged Wanda when familiar red tendrils began drifting from her fingers.

Anna tilted her head in mock sympathy. “What? You don’t want to hear the truth?”

With a wave of her hand, Anna slumped on the hay. Pietro cheered. “She’s just sleeping. She’ll be up in a few minutes.” Wanda said quietly, feeling the shame creep up on her as she tried to shake Anna’s words. Pietro laughed, and she turned to face him. “You don’t think it’s wrong?” Wanda asked quietly, her voice uncertain.

“What, are you kidding? I’m impressed! Seriously.” He admitted with a knowing smile. “It’s a pretty big leap from giving people nightmares and shooting red wiggly-woos out of your hands.”

For a moment Wanda stared off in the distance, allowing his words to wash over her.

“How’d you even do all this?” He finally asked. Wanda shifted uncomfortably at the question. “Hey, I’m not some stranger, or your wife, or your wife’s annoying little sister. I'm your brother. You can talk to me.”

Wanda’s eyes began to glisten to unshed tears as she thought over his question. “I don’t know how I did it.” She admitted quietly. “I… I only remember feeling completely alone. Like I was drowning. Just… Endless nothingness. Empty.” A tear fell down Wanda’s cheek.

“Mom! Mom!” Wanda heard Billy call out to her frantically as he ran over with Charlie following closely behind him. Wanda quickly composed herself.

Rushing over to the twins, Wanda felt dread build in her chest. “What is it, Billy?”

“I hear Momma. In my head! She’s in trouble.” The fear on his face made Wanda’s concern increase tenfold as her stomach dropped. “I don’t know understand. What’s happening to me?”

Wanda placed comforting hands on his shoulders as she struggled to control her emotions. “Where is she? Where is your mother?”

“Hey, don’t sweat it, sis. It’s not like your dead wife can die twice.” Pietro flippantly replied with a chuckle.

Anger. That's all she felt when Pietro spoke so dismissively about you. Unable to control her anger, Wanda shot out a hand as Pietro was sent flying back from the force of her powers.

Taking a breath, Wanda turned back to her terrified son. “Billy, I need you to focus.”

Closing his eyes, Billy began recounting what he saw. “I can’t tell. I see these… soldiers.” Wanda tensed even more. Billy gasped. “They think she’s dying!”

For a moment Wanda was sure her heart stopped.

Thinking quickly, she turned away from Billy, her eyes glowing red.

Steve and Natasha ran up just as the walls of the barriers began moving forward. They continued to sprint forward while Haywards minions made desperate attempts to run away.

“Y/n!” Steve cried out, feeling fear seep into his bones when he saw your lifeless form sprawled out on the empty field. On numb legs he began moving faster. Hopelessly, he was forced to watch the red energy wash over you once again.

Natasha cursed as they lost sight of your body. The red barrier continued to push forward when they were mere feet away from Darcy. “Fu-” They heard her mumble through a wince as she also became lost behind the barrier.

“We have to get in there!” Steve shouted.

With determination, Natasha nodded. “Let’s try.” A moment later they were pushing against the red energy that was fighting against letting them in.

Annnnnd we have concluded with the 90s! Chaos is the main population of Westview right now. A lot happened here. I'm not even sure what to say to be completely honest. A little nervous about this part.

Anyway...

As always, thoughts and comments are always welcome! Let me know what you think. :)

Taglist:

@theofficialzivadavid // @tquick99 // @abimess // @marrymemcgrath // @the-camilucha // @afuckingshituniverse //@pxterstrk // @aimezvousbrahms // @ensorcellme // @sapphicshots

#wanda #wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff x reader #wanda marvel #wanda maximov #wanda maximoff fic #wanda maximoff imagine #wanda x reader #wanda maximoff x you #wanda x y/n #wandavision #wanda x you #mcu x reader #mcu fanfiction

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braincoins · 4 years ago

Note

Shallura&Ryoumelle SpaceMall double date!

They watched Coran leave and then the questions came at the same time:

“Does this place even accept Altean currency?” “Who even is this?”

Ryou peered at the bills Coran had insisted upon him.

“We have some GAC,” Romelle assured him. “But I’m pretty sure no one around here takes Altean currency anymore.”

Shiro folded his stack of Altean bills and stowed it away. “Well, we can at least window shop.”

It was Allura’s turn to ask a question. “Why do we need windows?”

“No, it means we can just look at things but not really buy anything.”

“Well, what’s the point of shopping if you’re not going to buy something?” Allura asked in genuine confusion.

“Sometimes it’s just nice to look and daydream,” Romelle said.

“But if you don’t need anything or can’t buy something, then why would you...?”

“Maybe we should split up,” Ryou suggested quickly. “Meet back at the food court in a varga?”

“Does this place have a food court?” Shiro asked.

“It’s a mall; food courts are required.”

“I’m sure there is somewhere to eat,” Romelle agreed. “And appropriate signage to direct us. Let’s go!” And she grabbed Ryou’s hand and hauled him off towards a store that had caught her eye.

“I’m still confused,” Allura protested.

Shiro slung an arm over her shoulders. “Let’s just enjoy the time together away from the ship.”

She smiled. “I think I can do that.”

----------

Ryou and Romelle were already seated at the food court when Shiro and Allura got there. They found them by Romelle’s waving from her seat. Judging by the trays in front of them, they’d already found some lunch.

“Oh my Goddess,” she breathed when Allura set down four bags of shopping. “We didn’t have that much GAC, did we?”

“Don’t tell me you opened a credit account at all these places,” Ryou said, sounding horrified.

“No, no, nothing like that,” Shiro told him. “It turns out there’s a store that, among other things, buys old currency. And the Altean bills Coran gave us are extremely rare and valuable collector’s items.”

Ryou’s eyebrows went up. “I need the name of this store immediately and for you guys to stay here with Romelle.”

She pouted. “Why can’t I come with?”

He blushed. “Because it’s a surprise.”

Shiro chuckled. “Swynwyck’s Surprises, that way, on the left.”

“Thank you!” And Ryou was off like a shot.

“Let me show you what I bought,” Allura said, dutifully falling into distraction mode.

“I’ll get us some food,” Shiro volunteered.

“I want some of whatever they’re selling,” Allura told him, nodding at the busiest of the food vendors. The line was long, but seemed to be moving quickly.

“Coming up, Princess.” He kissed her cheek and went to queue.

Allura pulled out a cute dress and some shoes that went with it, but Romelle noticed she was watching Shiro as she did so. Satisfied at last that he was busy, the lost princess of Altea sidled up to her cousin and whispered, “I also managed to make a few purchases when Shiro wasn’t watching.” She pulled up a bag and opened a smaller bag hiding under a light sweater, letting Romelle peer in.

She whistled quietly. “Oh, he’s going to like you wearing that.”

“Who said I was going to be wearing it?”

They both laughed as Allura hid the purchase away again.

“You really have no idea what it is Ryou’s so intent on buying for you?”

“None. I mean, there were a lot of cute clothes I saw, but I can’t think of anything I was especially fond of. Though there was one store where he was acting kind of... weird. Maybe he found something he wanted to buy for me there?”

“Maybe. I’m very curious myself as to what it might be, so hopefully it’s not anything like...” She nodded towards the bag with its hidden surprise.

Romelle giggled and blushed. “I don’t think he’d let me open it here if that’s the case. What else did you get?”

Allura continued showing off her new acquisitions - mostly clothes, but also a new comtab (for Pidge), an old comtab (for Hunk to take apart and play with, in the hopes that he’d stop taking apart various pieces of the Castle), a new video game for the console that Pidge and Lance had bought on their last trip, and a boot knife for Keith.

“Are you sure it’s a good idea to give him more knives?”

“A Paladin must always be prepared,” she said.

“Level with me: You just make up that ‘Paladin Code’ stuff as you need to, don’t you?”

Allura opened her mouth to protest but Shiro had returned with two trays of food and drink, sliding one in front of Allura grandly. “For my princess.”

“Thank you, my paladin,” she replied, patting the chair next to her. “Please do join us.”

He took the proffered seat and closed his eyes to inhale the scent of the food. “Man, this smells almost as good as the stuff Hunk makes.” He dug in with gusto.

Ryou came running back up with a small bag in hand. He all but fell into the chair next to Romelle, but offered her the bag gently. "For you.”

“You didn’t have to get me anything,” she told him as she took the bag. “I’m happy just spending time with you.”

“I know, but... I wanted to. To get you this, anyway. It just... well, open it.”

The bag’s contents were wrapped in tissue paper (or something very like it), and Romelle had to pull that away before she gasped and pulled out a large wrap the color of sunlit grass and hemmed with beautiful butterfly-esque creatures. The whole thing shimmered faintly, but the material, though light, was soft to touch.

“Y-you’ve said before that you get a little chilly some mornings, especially in the spring and autumn, and this just... it reminded me of you.”

Romelle threw her arms around him. “It’s lovely! Thank you so much!” When she released him, she draped it around herself immediately. “It’s so soft!”

“It’s gorgeous, just like you,” Allura told her.

“I think that was supposed to be your line,” Shiro told his brother around a mouthful of food.

“Don’t talk while you’re eating,” Ryou scolded him.

“I want to buy you something, too,” Romelle said. “Maybe something from the Earth store that Allura mentioned.”

“Just don’t get him a cow,” Shiro suggested.

“What’s a cow?”

“You don’t want to know,” Allura said immediately, shoving some food into her mouth as if doing so would wipe the memory from her mind.

“I don’t need anything but more of your smiles,” Ryou told her.

“That’s better,” Shiro said approvingly.

“Shut it or I tell them about the last time you were at a mall.”

Shiro gasped in betrayed outrage. “You wouldn’t.”

“Well, now I want to know,” Allura pouted.

“No, you don’t,” he shot back immediately. “Not if you want me to wear that thing you think I didn’t notice you buying.”

“YOU SAW?”

“I think I don’t want to know now,” Ryou said, but Romelle just giggled.

“Come on, let’s go to the Earth store and leave them to pretend to fight,” she suggested, rising from her seat still wearing the wrap. “You can pick out whatever will make you happiest.”

He was on his feet immediately. “You make me happiest.”

“I’m not for sale.”

“Of course not, you’re priceless.”

She blushed again. “Stop.”

“Maybe when you say that like you mean it.”

#Shallura #Ryoumelle #Socks writes Voltron fanfic #void-tiger

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