#in order to efficiently use my time with the aligners out

[wintermage]

thank god i only have 2 more months of invisalign to go... i am so tired of not being able to drink tea all day every day like normal

[a-d-nox]

economic advice and timely buying tips: 2025 transits

as of late, social media has many discussions about what to buy - or avoid buying - over the next few years, largely in response to the political climate in the united states. across europe, many regions are actively preparing their populations for potential crises (sweden's seems to be the most popularly discussed - link). due to the urgency and pressure to act, as if the world might change tomorrow (and it could though i believe we still have time in many places), i’ve decided to analyze the astrological transits for 2025. in this post i provide practical economic advice and guidance on how much time astrology suggests you have to make these purchases everyone is urging you to prioritize. if it seems to intrigue people i’ll explore future years as well.

things the world needs to prepare for in 2025 in my opinion and why my advice is what it is: the rise of ai / automation of jobs, job loss, geopolitical tensions, war, extreme weather, inflation, tariffs - a potential trade war, a movement of using digital currency, the outbreak of another illness, etc.

uranus goes direct in taurus (jan 30, 2025)

advice

diversify investments: avoid putting all your money in one asset type. mix stocks, bonds, index funds, and, if you feel comfortable, look into sustainable investments or new technologies.

digital finance: familiarize yourself with digital currencies/platforms or blockchain technology.

build an emergency fund: extra savings can shield you from sudden economic instability. aim for 3-6 months’ worth of expenses.

reevaluate subscriptions and spending: find creative ways to reduce spending or repurpose what you have. cancel subscriptions that don't align with needs/beliefs, cook at home, or diy where possible.

invest in skills / side hustles: take a course/invest in tools that can help you create multiple income streams.

by this date stock up on

non-perishable food items like canned goods, grains, and dried beans. household essentials like soap, toothpaste, and cleaning supplies. basic medical supplies. multi-tools. durable, high-quality items over disposable ones (the economy is changing, buy something that will last because prices will go up). LED bulbs, solar-powered chargers, or energy-efficient appliances. stock up on sustainable products, like reusable bags and water bottles. blankets. teas. quality skincare.

jupiter goes direct in gemini (feb 4, 2025)

advice

invest in knowledge: take courses, buy books (potential bans?), and/or attend workshops to expand your skill set. focus on topics like communication, writing, marketing, and/or technology. online certifications could boost your career prospects during this time.

leverage your network: attending professional events, joining forums, and/or expanding your LinkedIn presence.

diversify income streams: explore side hustles, freelance gigs, and/or monetize hobbies.

beware of overspending on small pleasures: overspending on gadgets, books, or entertainment will not be good at this point in time (tariffs already heavy hitting?).

by this date stock up on

books / journals. subscriptions to learning platforms like Skillshare, MasterClass, or Coursera. good-quality laptop, smartphone, and/or noise-canceling headphones. travel bags - get your bug out bag in order. portable chargers. language-learning apps. professional attire. teas. aromatherapy.

neptune enters aries (march 30, 2025)

advice

invest: look into industries poised for breakthrough developments, such as renewable energy, space exploration, and/or tech.

save for risks: build a financial cushion to balance your adventurous pursuits with practical security.

diversify your income: consider side hustles or freelancing in fields aligned with your passions and talents.

"scam likely": avoid “get-rich-quick” schemes or ventures that seem too good to be true.

adopt sustainable habits: focus on sustainability in your spending, like buying high-quality, long-lasting items instead of cheap, disposable ones.

by this date stock up on

emergency kits with essentials like water, food, and first-aid supplies. multi-tools, solar chargers, or portable power banks. art supplies. tarot or astrology books (bans?). workout gear, resistance bands, or weights. nutritional supplements. high-quality clothing or shoes.

saturn conjunct nn in pisces (april 14, 2025)

advice

save for the long term: create a savings plan or revisit your budget to ensure stability.

avoid escapism spending: avoid unnecessary debt.

watch for financial scams: be cautious with contracts, investments, or loans. research thoroughly and avoid “too good to be true” offers.

focus on debt management: saturn demands accountability. work toward paying down debts to free yourself from unnecessary burdens.

build a career plan: seek roles / opportunities that balance financial security with fulfillment, such as careers in wellness, education, creative arts, or nonprofits.

by this date stock up on

invest in durable, sustainable items for your home or wardrobe that offer long-term value. vitamins or supplements. herbal teas or whole grains. blankets. candles. non-perishable food. first-aid kits. water. energy-efficient devices.

pluto rx in aquarius (may 4, 2025 - oct 13, 2025)

advice

preform an audit: reflect on how your money habits and your long-term goals.

make sustainable investments: support industries tied to innovation, like renewable energy, ethical tech, or sustainable goods.

expect changes: could disrupt collective systems, so build an emergency fund. plan for potential shifts in tech-based industries or automation. AI is going to take over the workforce...

reevaluate subscriptions and digital spending: cut unnecessary costs and ensure your money supports productivity. netflix is not necessary, your groceries are.

diversify income streams: brainstorm side hustles or entrepreneurial ideas.

by this date stock up on

external hard drives. cybersecurity software. portable chargers. solar panels. energy-efficient gadgets. non-perishable food. clean water supplies. basic first-aid kits and medications. portable generators. books on technology and coding. reusable items like water bottles, bags, and food storage. gardening supplies to grow your own food. VPN subscriptions or identity theft protection.

saturn enters aries (may 24, 2025)

advice

prioritize self-reliance: build financial independence. create a budget, eliminate debt, and establish a safety net to support personal ambitions. avoid over-reliance on others for financial stability/decision-making.

entrepreneurship: consider starting a side hustle / investing in yourself.

save for big goals: plan for major life changes, such as buying property, starting a business, etc. make a high yield saving account for these long-term goals.

by this date stock up on

ergonomic office equipment. home gym equipment. non-perishable foods and water supplies for potential unexpected disruptions. self-protection; consider basic tools or training for safety. high-protein snacks, energy bars, or hydration supplies. supplements like magnesium, B-complex vitamins, etc. stock up on materials for DIY projects, hobbies, or entrepreneurial ventures.

jupiter enters cancer (june 9, 2025)

advice

invest in your home: renovating what needs renovating. saving for a down payment on a house.

focus on security: start or increase your emergency savings. consider life insurance or estate planning to ensure long-term security for your family/loved ones.

embrace conservative financial growth: cancer prefers security over risk. opt for conservative investments, like bonds, real estate, and/or mutual funds with steady returns.

focus on food and comfort: spend wisely on food, cooking tools, or skills that promote a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle (maybe this an RFK thing for my fellow american readers or this could be about the fast food industry suffering from inflation).

by this date stock up on

furniture upgrades if you need them. high-quality cookware or tools. stockpile your pantry staples. first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, and home security systems. water and canned goods for emergencies. paint, tools, or materials for DIY projects. energy-efficient appliances or upgrades to reduce utility costs.

neptune rx in aries/pisces (july 4, 2025 - dec 10, 2025)

advice

avoid financial conflicts: be mindful of shared finances or joint ventures during this time.

avoid escapist spending: stick to a budget.

by this date stock up on

first-aid kits, tools, and essentials for unforeseen events. water filter / waterproof containers. non-perishables and emergency water supplies.

uranus rx in gemini/taurus (july 7, 2025 - feb 3, 2026)

advice

evaluate technology investments: make sure you’re spending money wisely on tech tools, gadgets, or subscriptions. avoid impulsively purchasing the latest gadgets; instead, upgrade only what’s necessary.

diversify streams of income: explore side hustles or gig work to expand your income sources. focus on digital platforms or innovative fields for additional opportunities.

reassess contracts and agreements: take time to revisit financial contracts or business partnerships. ensure all terms are clear and aligned with your goals.

prioritize financial stability: uranus often brings surprises, so focus on strengthening your savings and emergency fund.

avoid major financial risks: uranus retrograde can disrupt markets. avoid speculative ventures and focus on stable, low-risk options.

by this date stock up on

lightweight travel gear or items for local trips. radios, power banks, or portable hotspots in case of disruptions in digital connectivity. stockpile food, water, and household goods to maintain stability during potential disruptions. invest in high-quality, long-lasting items like tools, clothing, or cookware.

saturn rx in aries/pisces (july 13, 2025 - nov 27, 2025)

advice

review career: assess whether your current job or entrepreneurial efforts align with your long-term aspirations (especially considering the state of the world). adjust plans if needed.

strengthen emergency funds: aries energy thrives on readiness. use this time to build/bolster a financial safety net for unforeseen events.

prepare for uncertainty: build a cushion for unexpected financial changes, especially if you work in creative, spiritual, or service-oriented fields.

by this date stock up on

health products that support long-term well-being. essential supplies like first-aid kits, multi-tools, or non-perishables. bath products. teas. art supplies. drinking water or water filtration tools.

jupiter rx in cancer (nov 11, 2025 - march 10, 2026)

advice

strengthen financial foundations: building an emergency fund or reassessing your savings strategy. ensure everything is well-organized and sustainable.

by this date stock up on

quality kitchenware, tools, or cleaning supplies. pantry staples and emergency food supplies.

please use my “ask me anything” button if you want to see a specific asteroid god/goddess OR topics discussed next!

click here for the masterlist

© a-d-nox 2024 all rights reserved

[vampkomori]

Ena the Order is the concept of conforming to Fate, and Elio is an Emanator of Order

welcome to my pre-2,2 theory, i got carried away.

for those yet unaware, theres been a theory flying around that the Goddess of Sigonia, Gaiathra Triclops, is a folkloric interpretation of Ena the Order, on account of the iris of Ena's eye having the same colors as Aventurine's. we can go much further with this though.

(Aventurine's pupils are diamond-shaped, but little Kakavasha has round pupils. its likely that diamond-shaped pupils are a result of becoming a Stoneheart, because Topaz also has diamond-shaped pupils, and Aventurine used to not have them. but i digress)

Anyway, Gaiathra=Ena. Gaiathra is described as a left palm with 3 eyes, arguably Ena also has 3 eyes- two closed ones on their face, and one massive, open eye floating around them.

Gaiathra "reigns over all matters related to fertility, travels, and trickery." (Sigonia, Planar Ornament Relic Set) and is said to have been the one to bestow Aventurine with his luck.

but first: What is Order? Based on the words alone, youd think Order would have more in common with Equilibrium, but evidently that wasnt the case. Considering it was assimilated into the Harmony, it must have overlaps with that though, since the broader path is the one that absorbs the narrower one if their concepts are too similar. So, if Harmony is unity and peace, the idea of everyone joining a happy paradise, then how did the Harmony manage to absorb Order?

"I am filled with curiosity about how THEY swallowed up Order. The hymns of Xipe continue to spread and grow, occasionally overseen by ideology. In contrast, Ena's harmonic songs seems to align within a three-dimensional framework, akin to an emperor maintaining hierarchical order among all creatures. While there may be some overlap between THEIR Paths, the ancient Order is enormous in size, and swallowing THEM would prove far from effortless... Among the Aeons, there exist countless enigmas that surpass my own speculations." - Dev Log for Xipe in Simulated Universe, Herta's comment

Herta doesnt know either, and by all means a freshly ascended Aeon should not have an easy time absorbing someone as ancient as Ena- that is, unless Ena intended for it to happen.

This is a lot of establishing facts before i get to the meat of things. We still dont technically know what Order even is, so lets try figure it out!

"The planets governed by Ena adhere staunchly to established rules, yet I must acknowledge that the various calamities in the cosmos were all hindered by Ena's guardianship, leading to extremely efficient development of civilization among diverse planets. Interestingly, however, civilizations all eventually hit rock bottom because of Order. The ancient planets that once fervently worshiped Order would shine briefly before their total collapse... Perhaps this is the "Path" of these planets." - Dev Log for Ena in Simulated Universe, Herta's comment

So: Order is the concept of adhering to a predetermined outcome- their "path". Ena observes humanity "gazing into a crystal orb containing the cosmos" and ensures that they all follow their predetermined path of Fate. None may go astray, no outside influence may interfere, no matter what fate awaits them, they must follow their set path.

"THEIR voice is composed of syllables sequencing the rise and fall of civilizations in accordance with the Aeon's path."

Ena has the ability to foresee the future, as they dont just sequence the rise, but also the fall of civilizations. They are inherently impartial, just, things are destined to happen and so they see to it that they happen. Order is the concept of conforming to Fate, if a planet is destined to be destroyed by a calamity, then Ena guides it to that outcome.

However, Aeons, despite being concepts, arent just concepts, they have some semblance of sentience, self-awareness. they have goals, they make deals, though humans are unable to comprehend them.

So, Ena conforms to fate, but what is the purpose of doing so? Ena can see the future, but we know Kafka. there isnt just ONE future, theres a lot of futures, and endless paths. So its logical to assume that Ena, by being able to see the fates of civilizations, can actually see the endless amount of paths towards all possible fates, and personally chooses which path is specifically followed. and for the sake of the theory, lets assume Ena is benevolent and guides humanity towards the most fortunate fate (though even the most "fortunate" of fates can still end in destruction)

Before Ena was assimilated into the Harmony, they made a deal with Qlipoth the Preservation: Qlipoth will bring an end to Tayzzyronth the Propagation (as they are interfering with the predetermined Fates of planets) and in turn Ena will help Qlipoth against Oroboros the Voracity somehow (likely foreseeing its Fate and interfering with it). Qlipoth held up their end of the bargain, but Ena was assimilated before they were able uphold their part, which is interesting

We know theres something fishy about the Orders assmiliation into Harmony- it doesnt make sense, especially knowing that Ena foresees the future, and is likely aware of their own fate.

Heres where we remember that Gaiathra is also a goddess of trickery. Theres two possibilities:

Ena foresaw their own "demise" and made a deal with Qlipoth knowing they wouldnt be able to follow through on their part of the promise

Ena, able to see multiple paths for the future, foresaw that being assimilated into Xipe would lead them towards the most fortunate one, so they let themselves be absorbed on purpose, as the Harmony would not have been able to absorb the Order otherwise. The deal was just a bonus.

Either way, Ena would have known of the future, and making a deal shortly before the assimiliation of their path is clearly a scheme- they get something great out of it, and dont have to follow up on it.

Heres where we bring up Elio (and the Stellaron Hunters). We actually still dont know what path they follow, and isnt that so interesting? What path could possibly include following a "script" to ensure a certain future? hmmm

sounds like Order to me!

Elio possesses the ability to foresee future possibilities and the paths that lead towards them. Essentially, the exact ability that Ena is shown to possess. All the futures look pretty bleak though, except for one, which hes trying to achieve by making sure to follow that exact path: his "script". the very definition of Order.

Note also that despite Enas assimiliation, their faction can still exist. After all, Idrila the Beauty is also gone, but the Knights of Beauty still roam around. The path of a deceased or assimiliated Aeon can still be upheld even if the Aeon no longer exists.

Anyway, Elio is basically upholding Ena's legacy by ensuring that we adhere to fate, and guides us towards the most fortunate one. His ability is far too powerful though, so its safe to assume hes an Emanator, since theyre considered to be "as good as emissaries of the Aeons' wills"

*As a bonus, Gaiathra also reigns over "all matters related to 'travels'". if you stretch the definition a little, "travels" could refer to the idea of embarking on paths towards fate. you "travel" on a path, after all.

Theres also this interesting little tidbit here:

"THEY are always so symmetrical and so equal. If we were to rank those most sublime beings, only the Voracity and the Permanence can stand toe-to-toe with the Equilibrium's antiquity... Oh, and also the Order. After Ena disappeared, the Equilibrium's duties have only grown greater. Then, how would HooH perceive Nanook?"- Dev Log for HooH in Simulated Universe, Herta's comment

The fact that Nanook is brought up is pretty funny as theyre the youngest Aeon, and since only the most ancient ones would be able to stand "toe-to-toe" with HooH, youd think as the youngest, Nanook wouldnt stand a chance against them. but they were brought up regardless, in tandem with Ena no less

Coincidentally, Nanook is also the Aeon that Elio wants the Trailblazer to defeat too. Curious! You could say that it is the Will of the Order to see the fall of the Destruction? anyway,

HooH's duties "have grown only greater" since Ena disappeared, meaning that they must have overlapped in some way before, but coexisted. (similarly to how the Remembrance and Preservation coexist, possibly) We dont know much of anything about Equilibrium yet though, so lets put that aside.

Lets talk about luck.

Luck is just chance. The results of "chance" are left up to "fate". We know that not all choices or events matter in the grand scheme of things. Theres endless possible paths, so rolling a 1 or a 6 doesnt matter because it will still lead you onto the same destiny. Luck is irrelevant to fate, it does not influence it. Luck only influences how you arrive at it.

So how do you reconcile that with Order? if Order is staunchly adhering to fate, observing humanity to ensure they all end up on the "right" path, then how does chance, luck, happenstance, fit into all this?

Luck is the ultimate Order, because there is only ONE path that luck can take: the most fortunate one. It does not influence your fate however, luck only influences which one of the countless paths towards your fate you end up on. and always being lucky narrows your potential paths down to just one.

This is also why Nihility was the natural conclusion for Aventurine. If you realize that no matter what you do, you cannot change the outcome of your choices, then you realize its futile and decide to succumb to it. youll always win, so whats the point? Thats Nihility: succumbing to Fate, the inevitability of everything, realizing your choices dont matter. When youre lucky and everything you do leads to the same result then you start to think that maybe nothing matters.

Back on track though. Fate, despite being predetermined, is not singular. as in, theres predetermined fates (plural) waiting for you at the end of your path. theres multiple endings. Luck means you have less paths to end up on but luck does not influence the end goal.

In a way, what Elio is trying to do is very similar to what Aventurines "luck" does: he wants to end up on a very specific path that leads him to a very specific fate, and luck leads you onto one single path, theoretically making it easier to achieve certain fates. Its an interesting parallel.

"Blessing" someone with luck seems a bit too hands-on for someone like Ena, so while we might never know why Aventurine was blessed specifically, we can kind of see it as a sort of trial-run. Ena does not interfere, does not "defy" fate, but bestowing luck onto someone to narrow down their futures is a bit like interference- except its not, only on a technicality. theyre still adhering to the set paths that exist, after all, im not changing fate, what are you talking about? look, hes still on one of your predetermined paths. the fact that he cant go onto other paths is irrelevant if he still ends up at one of the predetermined endings.

As a note though, Ena is not Fate itself. Ena adheres to fate and ensures that humanity follows it. Nihility is basically succumbing to fate and thinking its inevitable and change is futile, and I guess you could see Harmony as the concept of circumventing fate- instead of arriving at one of your predetermined endings, how about you get assimilated into our harmonious hivemind and experience eternal bliss? (lets wait on that 2.2 harmony lore-drop before saying anything about that though)

got off track a little. basically, Ena's Order is the concept of conforming/adhering to Fate. potentially, in their era, Fate was a singular end, because they were the one to guide humanity onto certain paths and towards certain ends (which is why civilizations thrived but ultimately still collapsed). Enas assimiliation was on purpose, although we can only speculate on the reason. so i will. heres my speculation:

Ena is not Fate itself, but a Guide. seeing the countless possible paths and possible fates for humanity, they foresaw the same thing that Elio foresees- a terrible End at the hands of the Destruction that may affect humans and Aeons alike. potentially, Enas Will mightve been to avoid that (but remaining within the confines of fate, not defying it) so they set in motion the steps needed to embark on said path, which necessitated their assimilation into Harmony. if Enas reign caused the Fates of humans to be "set in stone", then Enas disappearance could be seen as humans regaining the ability to choose their own paths, their own fate. Essentially, Enas disappearance wouldve been necessary in order to even create the possibility of an "alternate ending" and leaving the choice up to humanity.

anyway thats the conclusion thanks for coming, godspeed if you read the whole thing. im bad at keeping things short and concise. and i started rambling near the end

as a disclaimer: these are vague thoughts and i change my view on things often. if we get new info in the future that says this was all nonsense then thats that. im not trying to convince anyone. just offering a perspective for funsies

[veryace-ficrecs]

Tim Drake & Jason Todd Angst Fic Recs

This list will include all ratings and tags, so read at your own discretion! :)

in the planter outside my front door by CosmoKid - Rated G

When Tim’s six years old, his third-grade class takes a field trip to the old firehouse in The Narrows.

By the age of seven years old, he’s learned that there’s a difference between pain and Pain, and that while adults are generally happy to deal with pain, they do not enjoy you talking about Pain.

These two things may be related.

This Dark Ceiling Without a Star by Miss_Lazy_Tuesday - Rated M

“For fuck’s sake, your chatter is going to drive me crazy faster than this stupid spell.” “Then you talk!” “There’s no point!” Jason snaps. “I can feel it, okay. It’s—there’s no emotion behind it, it’s not using my thoughts. It’s just a bunch of weird Greek echoing in my brain and a compulsion to act. And it’s getting stronger. Talking isn’t going to slow it down.” “Then what will slow it down?” After five long seconds of silence, Tim gives into the urge and viciously jabs his fist into Jason’s leg for the second time. “Goddammit, why?” Jason snaps, green briefly sparking in his eyes before disappearing just as quickly. “You are not seriously going to just sit there and wait to die.” “The hell do you care anyway?” “Because I don’t want you to die! Obviously!” “You fucking should.” 

unaware i'm tearing you asunder by hendecagrisms - Rated T

The pieces were starting to click into place, aligning to create a deeply disturbing picture. “Are you seriously saying you’ll become a missing person and fake your death for this stupid homecoming plan?” Jason interrupted, his voice full of as much judgmental incredulity as possible. The kid’s eyes skated back over to him, his face twitching into a brief frown. “What? No.” A pause. “I mean, we could do that instead, if you wanted. But to fool Batman I’d need facial reconstruction surgery and new papers and it would all have to be untraceable—,” he broke off with a scoff, shaking his head slightly. “No, it’s just smarter and more cost-efficient to do it for real.” - Tim learns about Jason Todd's return, does some research on the Lazarus Pit, and realizes that there might be a way to solve multiple problems all at once: removing himself from the picture. For some strange reason, the Red Hood doesn't seem keen on cooperating.

Grin and Bear It (I got blood on your carpet) by Alia_JuneBug - Not Rated

When Jack Drake’s business trip gets canceled, he is forced to stay at home while the legal kinks get worked out. He’s not used to having a teenager underfoot, so it’s only rational that he’s a little snappish around Tim. At least, that’s what Tim tells himself each time his dad’s idea of discipline gets harsher. Bruce had told him to take a break from Robin in order to spend some time at home with his dad, and Tim can’t say no to that. He knows Bruce is probably glad to be rid of him for a short while. And he can handle discipline. This is a Tim Drake problem, not a Robin problem anyway. There’s no need for Bruce to know anything. Things get a little muddled when an injured Jason Todd crawls through his bedroom window.

Thrown into the Storm by ThePokeOne - Rated T

"It figured, Tim thought as he trekked through Gotham's streets in one of the worst storms he'd ever seen. He'd been careless. So stupidly careless."

Or:

Tim gets kicked out, and Jason has a change of plans.

am i the only one pretending (i did it to myself) by rutaceae - Rated T

Tim doesn’t expect his latest civilian kidnapping to be any different from the rest, but when he remembers things best left buried in the past, things take a turn for the worse. Luckily, his family is here to help.

sallow skin (and they can’t look away) by Ghxst_Bird - Rated T

Bruce is off planet when Robin’s distress beacon is lit. He tries not to worry, but then Nightwing contacts him: Robin’s tracker leads straight into Gotham Bay.

1-800-ROBIN by spqr - Rated T

“Gotham Youth Mental Health Hotline, this is Jason speaking. Can I ask who I’m talking to?” There’s a long silence on the other end of the line, and then a small voice says, “I, um. Sorry, I don’t know why I called. This was a mistake. I’ll just hang up now.” “Hey, wait.” Jason drops his feet to the floor, sitting forward in his shitty cubicle. Suddenly his heart is racing and he’s not sure why, but he can’t let this kid hang up. “You don’t have to tell me your name. That’s okay. Just – why don’t you tell me why you’re calling?”

buy the ticket, take the ride by Anonymous - Rated M

Tim had always figured that if he ever woke up in Vegas sans-memory, it would be when he was older than fourteen. But there were some things he couldn’t control, and apparently whatever had happened last night that he didn’t remember was one of them.

hungry for strays by Ghxst_Bird - Rated T

Tim knows something is wrong with Batman and Nightwing, and somehow it all has to do with the new crime lord on the rise in crime alley. So of course he’s not going to stay at the manor while they’re out risking their lives. Tim leaves a note and sets out for intel on the Red Hood. Aka. Everyone is straight up not having a good time

Safe and Warm by sardonic_sprite - Rated G

Batman.

Batman lived right next door. Batman surely had a generator, or at least a fireplace and wood, or some way to get warm.

Batman took care of kids, and Mr. Wayne was really nice. He would at least let Tim warm himself back up. Maybe he could even stay just until the power came back on.

It was worth a shot.

Nervous Breakdown by AhsokaJackson - Rated T

Jay closed his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose to push back the encroaching headache. And possibly the admittedly ironic desire to strangle this kid for his lack of self-care instincts. "Tim. Timmy. Answer me this. Where exactly is the old man? Actually, better question: Why in the ever-living hell is the answer to that anything other than 'right here'?" Tim gave a huff that sounded more tired than defiant. "Because, like I said, it's a mild case and I don't need to be under observation. I already told Bruce the same thing I told you: I'm fine." "And he believed that."

Don't You Know? by sardonic_sprite - Rated T

“How the hell did you think taking everything the real Robin had was going to make him proud of you?” Jason snapped. “I didn’t want to take anything,” Replacement cried. “I wanted to save it. It… Batman… they were… everything was just… It was awful, and, and Gotham needed… but Robin…” The kid looked up at Jason, desperation in his eyes, like he was trying to find justification from his accuser. “I-I know he wouldn’t have wanted Batman to die.”

Living Dead Boy by Terranpheum - Rated T

Tim was having a normal night photographing Batman and mourning the dead when Jason Todd suddenly breaks out of his own grave. He's unresponsive and catatonic, and Tim knows there's no way he can leave the boy on his own. So, he brings him back to Drake Manor to try and help him recover. It goes… well?

Instead of All the Colors That I Saw by SilverSkiesAtMidnight - Rated T

Dick comes around to stand fully in front of him, keeping a steadying hand on Tim’s arm. “Just because you know you’re safe intellectually doesn’t mean you always feel safe,” he says softly. “It’s okay if you don’t feel safe.” “But it’s not okay!” Tim bursts out. “Because if I don’t feel safe, then how is Jason supposed to feel safe? He shouldn’t have to feel uncomfortable just because my brain is screwed up!” There’s a faint sound by the door, barely more than an intake of breath, and his eyes snap to the no-longer empty doorway.

The Worst Kind of Crush by TimDrakeIsMyPatronus - Rated T

Civilians came first.  It was one of the foundational truths of being a superhero. Their job was to save civilians regardless of the personal cost. Each of them knew and understood the risks associated with the cape when they put it on.  Still, rules got fuzzy when one woke up underneath a building.  Or the one where a building explodes and Tim is trapped under the rubble

Last Request by destiny919 - Rated T

"Any last words, Replacement?" Red Hood casually crouches down in front of him. "Or how about a last request? I'm feeling generous. I'll do you one last favor before I clip those little wings. Whatever you want. Sky's the limit." There's only one thing he's ever really wanted from Jason Todd.

Echoes of You by SilverSkiesAtMidnight - Rated T

Graveyard mud, heavy and dark, clinging to a stained and torn suit. One shoe missing, a leg bent awkwardly and blood staining a bare foot.

Milk white skin beneath the mud, black hair hanging in muddy clumps around his ears. Blue eyes staring back at him, animal-bright and dilated in the brief moment before he flinches back from the light with a cry of pain that stabs through Jason to the soul.

His shaking hand closes around the flashlight before he can even think about it, cutting off the piercing beam and letting it spill out in shards between his fingers. For a petrifying moment as his eyes readjust, he’s sure that when he looks again, there will be nothing there.

“Tim?” he whispers.

The lean and ragged figure, tiny, god he’s so small, lowers his hands away from his face, away from his eyes wide and glittering almost silver in the moonlight.

Hands, mud-covered and torn. The red of his shredded fingernails is sickeningly dark in the broken light.

He’s vomiting before he even feels the bile making its way up his throat.

Petals for Armor by SilverSkiesAtMidnight - Rated T

There’s a small half-moon of blood under the white of Tim’s nail where he bent it. He studies the red of it, feeling foggy and dreamlike. “Can I ask you a question?” His brother’s eyes flick to him and away again, surprised and wary. “What?” His nail doesn’t hurt much, just the dullest of aches when he presses down against it. “When you were homeless, you slept with people for money, didn’t you?” Jason jerks like he’s been slapped. His knuckles are so pale where they grip the steering wheel they suddenly look more bone than flesh. “Did I -” “Was it worth it?” Tim asks, drifting like a cloud over whatever furious reaction Jason was about to give him. “The money, I mean.” His sternum slams into the seatbelt with bruising force. Unbraced for it, his head whips forward and back against his seat as they swerve off the road again and skid to a halt with a screech of rubber.

farthest you’ve ever flown by rutaceae - Rated T

When Jack Drake kicks Tim out in a rage, Tim, not wanting to be a bother, tries to make it work without getting the Bats involved. But he can only go so long without being found out, and it’s not Batman that ends up discovering his secret; it’s the Red Hood.

Familial Ties by AnonymousWhump - Rated T

What he wasn't expecting was to walk into the kitchen to find Tim,  yes Tim because he wasn't in the Robin outfit he was dressed in a hoodie and sweatpants, was that blood on his feet?  Staring at him in shock, eyes flicking from him to the phone in his hand, before mumbling a quiet,

“Jason?”  

Or, Jason breaks into the Titan's Tower to hurt Robin but his plan is quickly derailed when he sees signs of abuse.

Drop In by iselsis - Rated T

Tim's injured, alone in Crime Alley, and the worst possible person finds him. And yet it doesn't turn out as badly as Tim expected.

Watch Your Step Dear by Redaliveviolation - Rated T

Tim was having a great time watching the Dynamic Duo race across Gotham. He was getting so many good photos and he never wanted these nights to end. Too bad the heroes aren’t around when he takes a trip off of the side of a building.

[crystal-overdrive]

TavTash Tag Game

Tagged in my own game! Thanks @bearhugsandshrugs 🥰

Tell us a bit about your Tav!  This is Tavarina Ammakyl, 30, a Waterdelvian noble, now Grand Duke of Baldur's Gate. Before the Nautaloid she was a researcher and lecturer with the Watchful Order, and had powers granted to her by a mysterious patron that was unlike any other warlock patron she'd heard of. Academia and her patron were Tav's way out of the pressure she was under to marry well as her parent's 'spare' second-daughter.

What alignment is your Tav? How does that align or clash with Gortash? Do they agree with him morally? Lawful Neutral. Within three months of meeting Gortash she becomes Lawful Evil. She values efficiently, order and rules, and believes those who can lead should step up to do so. She's done some dark things in the name of those values, and Gortash corrupts her into viewing those acts in a positive light. Her clashes with Gortash are less about morals and more about optics; he's just entered a phase of his plan where he can be openly violent (murdered patriars etc) and she thinks he needs to pull back and continue to build his image.

What God does your Tav follow? Is Gortash's position as Bane's chosen an issue?  With where we're at in the fic right now, Tav has just learned that the 'warlock patron' she's worked with for the past decade is, in fact, Bane. Prior to that she'd had blessings from Loviatar but held no real religious convictions. She's been on a similar corruption journey with Bane, at first calling him evil and dismissing Enver's offer to raise a black keep, then realising she has respect for the church's tenets and models them in her own behaviour, before attempting a Banite ritual herself. Gortash's position as his chosen and therefore his position above Tav in the Banite hierarchy is magically enforced, which gives Tav little choice at times.

What did your Tav think of Gortash when they first met? Did they take his offer of an alliance?  She took the alliance immediately, but negotiated him down to killing the brain and using her hero status to further his grasp on the city: being the one to 'save the city' was always his plan, after all. She threw fixing Karlach's engine into the deal too, to get the party off her back. As someone who had been a reluctant leader, only doing it because no one else was willing or capable, Tav saw this as the most logical and efficient way to end things. On a personal level, she was attracted to him and admired his wit and intelligence but didn't trust him at all. Her 'patron' however, seemed to draw her towards him.

How did Gortash and your Tav get together? What do they see in each other?  My friend said they were practically married from the moment they met and yeah, that vibe is there, but it took them quite a long time to actually get together. Tav didn't trust that he wasn't attempting to seduce her into supporting policies she didn't agree with, and when she realised she held more than just attraction to him, she was concerned about how it would look to the patriars. Tav eventually threw caution to the wind after learning the truth about Bane and almost being kidnapped by Wyll. I think they are quite similar people in their drives towards efficiency, their thirst for knowledge and their complicated relationships with the trappings of luxury. Tav explicitly says multiple times that she's attracted to his intelligence and wit, and honestly he just loves it when she's doing evil shit.

What does the future hold for your Tav and Gortash? Are they in a relationship, a one time thing, are they going to rule the sword coast together or kill each other in a tragic showdown? That would be spoilers...and require me to know the answer to that question! I'm relatively certain that their alliance will hold, but what form that ultimately takes is still up for debate. And whether they'll rule the sword coast? That depends on Wyll and the Harpers...

I've run out of people to tag in this but please feel free to join in - we want to meet all the Tavtashers! 🖤

[the-small-cimarron-paparazzi]

Do I dare think it: Saralegui's old quest of spotting patterns and getting power and being actually excellent at what he does just think about the background made up of the first 4 volumes i say this as a fan but this is horror has factually surreptitiously ended when canon happens (actually when Carolia Arc happens)--and not even snapped but has achieved a visible ending though not one he's had in mind--and he actually has a lot of free time/agency on hand from being freed up from that box-finding-efficiency and that free time is the next journey.

Yes I say free time. Not even the freedom of making choices about the future outside of any influence from other wills and persons, which is secretly only getting to become my privately reached conclusion this year (slow reader. though I finally managed time-that-counts to finish the jpn canon! congrats to self) on where the canon might be headed.

Still can't get over how Yuu-chan's skillset is entirely order made from Shinou (which means Thematic and which means possibly Saralegui as the other side might also have something along these lines, which would very well likely be what has the chance to have been planned between Alazon and Gilbert. You can definitely see e.g. none of these 2 are thinking about other heirs: the twins being human-shinzoku/shinzoku-human is entirely plot-important, and also not just what the twins themselves have in mind cf. MA-Song.) which certainly means Shinou is really trying to do something unthinkable (not in a bad sense), like getting meta and not treating Yuu-chan's people skills as the amiable, peaceful bless it is but something to wash the world off what he doesn't think should be there with. Like what happens and is a bit likely to be taken seriously by Saralegui and maybe so forced into reality in MA-Box.

Somehow I don't think that's above or beneath Shinou. He would have very thinking-out-of-the-box-no-i-was-never-in-the-box capacities, being the shinso of mazokus/chaotic aligners + also being plausibly good at war (at least very drawn to war). Down the line it could very well be the reader's heart being torn between "OK Shinou does his war and not even in a way Kenja would object to so this is good...?" and "but kindness is not seen as kindness but so Used from somewhere above the board that's bound to be something not too good....?". With Yuu-chan's views and reactions being what might resolve the whole dilemma (I trust sensei).

But ofc all assumptions, and not to be taken too seriously. Except by me...this haunts me....

[msfbgraves]

We're in one

Do you know how you know you are living in a dictatorship?

I spent pretty formative years in the part of Germany that had only gotten out of one a little more than ten years prior. All the adults you met had been through it, all the young people had been raised by people who had been through it and had been through parts of it themselves. There was a wave of books coming out sharing the experience of it, the feelings never before spoken, the lengths people went through to protect themselves and their spirit.

Well, here is what I learnt:

You are constantly trying to get around the system.

When this millenial grew up, getting around the system was generally frowned upon. After all, the system was benenficial, and as such, needed to be contributed to.

My ex-GDR fellow students did not have that experience.

How to get any real information? How to get any consumer good that wasn't alcohol? (There was always alcohol.) How to get through winter? How to get connections with someone who could get you stuff? How to escape surveillance?

There was an inherent sense that the only way to get through unscathed was through sharing what anyone could get. Yes, fine, you could align yourself with the system, too - if it would let you - in order for the system to let you bypass it. Specialty shops for high profile party members. Travel passes for athletes, that kind of thing. Spying 'privileges'. Knowing someone who had connections abroad. But nobody, absolutely nobody, would rely only on what the system would grant an average individual working inside it. You had to know a guy who knows a guy.

None of that was strictly allowed, mind - "west relations" would torpedo any high profile career, if it got you better coffee - but not doing it was simply not feasible.

I am thinking of this so much right now with all the cost of living bullshit going on.

Everything is becoming a luxury. Heating your house. Buying soap that will not make you allergic. Not being surveilled. Making any ethical decision whatsoever. And, as it was there, the capitalist system is not completely airtight. If you want, you can indeed swerve it - when knowing the right go arounds, or sharing resources, or using other people's special memberships, or having a rich uncle, or going analog, or opting out of services or taking all kinds of extra special measures to get what you want despite the system. It's no longer enough to simply pledge your time and taxes and have access to the basic goods and services humans need to build happy communities.

"But at least you're not being bombed, so -"

No. That's straight out of the Hunger Games. "At least you're not in a real war." Wars are not a yardstick to measure humane circumstances by!

There's been a lot of talk in the last twenty years about the externalised costs of capitalism, but it is getting so hungry that these costs are no longer being externalised at all. If you're lucky enough not to get killed, you're getting squeezed, and honestly, I thought we'd officially done away with feudalism, and scrip and company towns.

I don't see much of an answer outside of political reform or revolution but I'm reaching Les Misérables levels of anger about this before going back to a well honed: "Focus on the good, look for the helpers, offer community support, be grateful" kind of response. And gaming the system where you can, not because you want to make a few bucks for a little luxury here and there, but simply because otherwise, you can't turn the heating on. And even if you can turn the heating on, you have to scheme not to get eliminated from your job in another "efficiency optimisation" measure. I'm so angry that after the world has come out of a natural threat to all our lives, the system is going right back to creating these same threats by wars and denying people food and housing.

Sure it's not the only thing going on right now. Sure, we can help each other through these milder threats to our life and sanity. But we shouldn't be forced into poverty to please the Sultan of Bahrein, or whoever is out to get yet a 1000 times more money than the coming five generations of their family could hope to spend, money that is made by increasing world hunger.

And much closer to home it's perverse that supermarkets raise their prices by 15% to offset the economies people made to keep the heating on. It's insane that my city now charges €4 an hour to park in the centre to pay for the extra assistance needed to keep people alive through the cost of living crisis. It's simply grating to have to pay three times as much for a cinema ticket and €120 per year extra for basic internet and t.v. because no one is stopping people from doing it. They don't need to. They can function perfectly well without it. But they can, so they do, driving all other prices up with them. Seriously. It's ridiculous that the public pool is now only €2 cheaper than the spa in a luxury hotel, petrol/gaslone is almost €8 a gallon so obviously they're raising the price of both parking your bike and bus tickets because of "increasing demand". And yes, I could find ways around these annoyances - they did in the GDR - but is this why people risked their lives to get away from the iron curtain?

[mbti-notes]

Anon wrote: Ni-dom here. Reading one of your recent reply made me sad since I myself am a textual content creator (by passion) that begins to wonder if it’s still worth it. For years I have used internet to share what I loved and connect with like-minded people, but recently it’s difficult to propose complex content: algorithms often don’t give priority to quality, and at this point getting noticed is complicated as much as developing an original idea. Besides, it’s rare to find a good online debate to take part in…

Maybe I have an out-of-date mindset, but I believe that the problem is not only mine. I don’t lack intrinsic motivation, however I know it wouldn’t be the same if I kept my texts to myself: I like that what I write has an impact on people, it’s stimulating for me to giving and receiving feedback about writing, and I don’t mind contributing to the growth of communities to which I belong.

Nevertheless, by now I have the impression of speaking into the void and being a poor deluded who would like to row against the general course of things at all costs. I'm tempted to throw in the towel, but I also suspect my bitterness may stop me from considering alternative solutions. It wouldn't be the first time I ran away because I'm afraid that I have aimed at a goal out of my reach, after all.

So, this is my question to you: how am I supposed to regain my objectivity on a question that clearly hits me where it hurts? I’m not usually that oversensitive, but for some reason I invest a lot emotionally in writing. And now I doubt what tear myself away from it is not only an unreceptive audience, but also my own lack of flexibility (since I’m not able to adapt to a context which is far from my ideal) or perhaps a snobbish attitude (since it bothers me that a lot of awful texts have great visibility and are preferred to what springs out of my head, no matter how much I apply myself). In these conditions, it’s hard for me to decide how to proceed.

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

Passion is important, but it's also important to reflect on the best ways to express it. Some ways are better than others. One method to determine the best way is to measure how "effective" it is. As you've said, you don't seem to be reaching as many people as you'd like - "audience numbers" is an objective measurement of in/effectiveness.

However, effectiveness isn't just measured objectively. You should also take into consideration what your subjective goals are. It seems that your goals are unclear. E.g. Wanting to connect deeply with like-minded people might be incompatible with wanting to reach the largest audience possible - which is it going to be?

What is it, exactly, that you want to achieve with your writing, and how should that be reflected in your plan of action? For example, if making money is your main motivator, then perhaps you have to hustle and network your way into more lucrative situations.

Generally speaking, in order to maintain purposeful direction in life:

Know yourself better by getting in touch with your preferences, needs, desires, ideals, and values

Based on the above, set an intention that serves as your compass or philosophy of life that guides all your decision-making

Reflect on your aspirations or the personal potential you hope to actualize and set concrete goals that are well-aligned with your intention

Formulate a step-by-step plan of action to reach each goal

Once you have achieved a goal, evaluate the effectiveness (e.g. did you stick to your intention?, could your plan have been more efficient?, was the outcome what you expected or wanted?, ought you set different goals now that you know more?, etc.)

If necessary, refine your intention, goals, or plans to boost effectiveness for the next stage of your progress

[oddnub-eye]

Fanservant: Naoise

Old Art of Naoise by me

Naoise

Class: Saber

Title: Deirdre’s Hero 

Gender: Male

Source: Ulster Cycle

Region: Ulster

Alignment: Neutral Good

Height: 6’2

Weight 175lbs

Parameters

Strength: C

Endurance: C 

Agility: B+

Mana: C

Noble Phantasm: E-EX 

Luck: E

Class Skills

Magic Resistance C

As a saber servant, Naoise possesses the ability to nullify magic used against him. A rank of C allows him to nullify a spell of less than two verses, but he is still susceptible to Greater Rituals.

Riding E

Another skill that the Saber class comes equipped with. While chariots were popular during the time of the Ulster Cycle, Naoise himself preferred to fight on foot, and thus has the minimum rank in this skill.

Personal Skills

Single-Mindedness (Love) A

The ability to devote oneself to one cause above all others. Naoise’s legend is inseparable from his role as Deirdre’s lover, and they are the most famous pair of lovers in Irish Mythology. For the sake of Deirdre, Naoise went against even his king, Conchobar. As long as the memory of Deirdre exists in Naoise’s heart, his determination and grit will be unfailing.

Mind’s Eye (True) B-

No matter how serious the danger, Naoise will be able to calmly assess the conditions of a battlefield in order to navigate through it, and keep himself out of danger.

Its efficiency is dulled somewhat by Naoise’s tendency to single-mindedly focus on specific objectives when in the throes of emotion.

Combat Attunement C

Legends speak of how talented the sons of Uisliu were at fighting together, and this talent carries over to Naoise as a servant. When fighting in a group of two or three, Naoise can work alongside any partner(s) with minimum need for adaptation.

Noble Phantasms

Deirdre Scaith: Although Ruin Awaits, Let Not My Heart StillRank: D-EX

Classification: Anti-Deirdre

A noble phantasm that could only be described as a “bane” in the scenario of a Holy Grail War, due solely to the fact that it can only reach its true power in the presence of another Holy Spirit.

In its most basic application, it merely unleashes a blast of darkly colored magical energy from Naoise’s sword. Compared to similar Noble Phantasms, it only has the advantage of being low cost.

The true power of [Deirdre Scaith] is only revealed in a scenario in which Deirdre is present. Naoise is ultimately a side-character in Deirdre’s legend. He was her lover, and the spark that allowed Deirdre’s destiny to finally set itself into motion.

This Noble Phantasm should be a crystallization of that truth. However, it also serves as a crystallization of what Naoise was to Deirdre: her hero. The activation of this Noble Phantasm will then give Naoise [the ability to be Deirdre’s hero]. Make him strong enough to fight an opponent, make him durable enough to see her one final time, etc. However, no ability given by this Noble Phantasm can be a “guarantee”: it can only give him a chance.

Personality

A servant who can, at best, be described as cripplingly bland. A blank piece of paper on a man, lacking so powerfully in distinctive features that if one saw him on television or read of him in the pages of a novel, one could not help but begin filling in the gaps of Naoise’s personality with their own.

His personality is agonizingly typical. He talks of honor and prefers fair fights. He displays token excitement at fighting strong opponents. He detests evil-doers. He is plainly accepting of his allies at face value. To try and judge Naoise amongst the powerful personalities that surrounded him; valiant, bloodstained heroes like Cu Chulainn and Conall Cernarch, conniving and ambitious rulers like Conchobar and Medb, or the alluring and endearing damsels such as Emer or Deirdre, Naoise looks utterly forgettable by comparison.

Bond 1

One of the three sons of Uisliu, who, prior to the rise of Cu Chulainn and Conall Cernach, were the greatest warriors of Ulster. Be it battle, hunting, or even arts such as singing and poetry, the three sons of Uisliu were beyond reproach in the ways of a warrior, and were celebrated and beloved by the province for their heroism and friendly natures.

Bond 2

Such was the life Naoise lived. He ate, fought, and slept alongside his brothers. They moved amongst the Ulstermen, never without praise far from their ears. Yet Naoise drew no joy from this life. In spite of the excitement the life of a hero would bring to anyone else, to Naoise, his life felt akin to one of drudgery. A meaningless grind, day in and day out, fighting wherever the King told him to fight, and taking part in celebration with a token grin. 

The phrase “robotic” comes to mind when thinking about how Naoise lived during this time period. He had no desire for more, no desire for less. He was empty, and simply did as the wind told.

All would change when Naoise left his siblings to go on a hunting trip alone, and was caught in a snowstorm.

Bond 3

There once was a young maiden by the name of Deirdre. Today, her fame rivals that of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and Cu Chulainn. And just like those two, she was equally famous in her own time. Or, perhaps infamous may be a better turn of phrase. The mysterious betrothed of King Conchobar, prophesied since before birth to cause ruin, hidden away until the King could claim her. None sought her out for fear of invoking Conchobar’s wrath, some did not even wish for her to come out of hiding at all, fearing the prophesied ruin.

And Naoise found her. During his trip away from his companions, he came across the hiding place of Deirdre and her nurse, and it was love at first sight…

For Deirdre.

Of course, Deirdre had been told tales of the Three Sons of Uisliu, but seeing Naoise in person bewitched her. And, perhaps, she saw the “emptiness” of Naoise’s character. Deirdre, who had no freedom in her life, seized upon the chance to craft a hero for herself, and begged Naoise to take her away from Ulster.

Naoise, who had inclination towards betraying Conchobar, refused. Deirdre, desperate, used every method in the book to get him to oblige her. Crying, begging, threats of shame, slapping and clawing at him, even threatening to use a geass to make him oblige. Naoise, eventually, obliged. Was he moved by the threats Deirdre made towards him and his brother's honor? Or was he genuinely sympathetic towards her, and needed only a little push to overcome his fear of the king’s retribution?

Not even Naoise could answer.

Bond 4

Just as he played the role of a Warrior of the Red Branch perfectly, Naoise played the role of Deirdre’s hero perfectly. After escaping with his brothers and Deirdre, Naoise was faultlessly courteous, attentive, and gentle with her. When she received unwanted advances from the King of Scotland, Naoise did not hesitate to leave immediately, even though the King had paid him and his brothers well for their services.

Eventually, Conchobar desired to retain Deirdre, and developed a clever ruse to lure her back to Ireland. He sent Fergus Mac Roich to retrieve them under false promises, making sure to have Fergus waylaid on the journey back to Ulster so he could protect Naoise and Deirdre when they returned.

Deirdre had objected to returning, still fearing Conchobar, but something had stirred within Naoise. He was oddly insistent on returning home. His passion for the prospect startled even his brothers. Convinced by Naoise’s sudden show of passion, Deirdre begrudgingly agreed to return to Ulster.

That night, they were ambushed by the forces of Eogan Mac Durthacht, who had come at Conchobar’s behest, and a great battle was fought upon the fields of Ulster. All three of the sons of Uisliu died, and Deirdre was seized by Conchobar, where she would soon meet her own tragic fate.

However, it is said of that night that Naoise had looked more alive then he had ever been before. That he had fought as if he were a savage animal, enduring countless blows, slaying countless men. He fought with an even deeper desperation than that of a cornered animal. In the end, it was only through a dishonorable blow from behind that Naoise fell.

Bond 5

It had been night, soon after Deirdre and the sons of Uisliu fled from Ulster. While Naoise was unfailingly courteous to Deirdre, he was still distant, as he was to everything. Even as Deirdre’s hero, the one she tried to shape herself, he still only “fulfilled the role”. But, that evening, he came across Deirdre crying.

As a lover should, he asked “why?”.

Deirdre stayed silent for a long moment, hiding her face from Naoise, before answering.

“It's…frightening. I’m glad to be gone…I wanted nothing more than to be gone…but now that I am gone…I don’t know what to do. I don’t know what happens next.”

“I’m scared.”

Naoise had no response at the time, only taking off his cape, draping it over Deirdre’s shoulders, and sitting back-to-back with her until she fell asleep. Naoise had no strong emotions towards Deirdre at this point. He had no reason to, and in fact, it would have been justified for any emotions he did have to be negative.

And yet, at that moment, Naoise came to a conclusion.

“This is someone I don’t want to see cry again.”

It would have been hard to see Naoise’s behavior change after that. He was still courteous, honorable, and attentive to Deirdre, without fault. But perceivable to only Deirdre…it had become far more genuine. As though the hero she had been trying to mold came to completion without any effort on her part. 

For the first time in his life, Naoise’s heart had come alive.

And yet, it would be that very birth of passion that would lead to tragedy.

When Conchobar sent Fergus, carrying those fateful false promises, Naoise’s newfound passion made him feel homesickness even stronger. But even more so than homesickness, the idea of working back into the King’s good graces, to benefit from Conchobar’s great wealth in order to give Deirdre the best life he could, to give her a life better than the life on the run they had been living. So, he insisted they return to Ulster.

He only realized his mistake when the ambush came, and so fought against Eogan’s forces not with the desperation of a man fighting for his life, but with the unmatched conviction of a man who sought to repent for his greatest sin. Every warrior was just another body between him and seeing Deirdre to safety. Nothing mattered other than her. There was no choice other than to fight on, no matter how many wounds he took on. He would save her, no matter what--

Naoise only stopped thinking of Deirdre when he could not think any longer.

And so ends the tragic tale of Naoise, whose newly awakened heart only succeeded at breaking itself.

Motive and Attitude towards Master

Naoise serves his master loyally, not dissimilar from a servant such as Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. He views his master as his lord, and fights with an appropriate amount of loyalty. That being said, as a result of Naoise’s experiences with Conchobar, he cannot take a “my master, right or wrong” attitude. Although loyal and polite, Naoise will not hesitate to speak out when he believes his master has stepped out of line or acted dishonorably.

His wish, the one that motivates him to fight for the Holy Grail, is to apologize to Deirdre. To apologize for the mistake that led both of them to their tragic fates.

Even deeper than that, however, is Naoise’s desire to truly save Deirdre. To be the hero she had wanted so much.

Relationships

Cu Chulainn

The hero who rose to prominence soon after Naoise's death. Naoise recognizes Cu Chulainn from the brief period Cu Chulainn was in the Boy Troop while Naoise was still in Ulster. He’s happy that Ulster got such a wonderful hero to replace him and his brothers.

Conall Cernach

Another hero who rose to fame after Naoise’s death. Although Naoise holds the death of one of Fergus’ sons against Conall, he acknowledges Conall wasn’t fully aware of the situation. Naoise is happy Ulster had such reliable heroes after his death.

Fergus Mac Roich

When it comes to Fergus, Naoise regrets not being able to protect the man’s sons. Fergus, thinks Naoise's stance is utterly ridiculous, and if it ever comes up, will remind the younger man that the blame falls solely on Conchobar’s shoulders. In spite of both of them typically having friendly attitudes, their shared history leads to Naoise avoiding Fergus and vice-versa.

Paris

Naoise notes something of a common thread between he and Paris’ legends, and thus attempts to act as a brotherly figure to the Trojan Prince. How Paris’ actual big brother responds to this seems to vary based on the day.

Bibliography

The Tain, translated by Thomas Kinsella

Early Irish Myths and Sagas, translated by Jeffery Gantz

Cuchulainn of Muirthemne, Lady Augusta Gregory

Oxford Dictionary of Celtic Mythology, James Mackillop

Myths and Legends of the Celts, James Mackillop

The Deaths of the Sons of Usnach, translated by Eleanor Hull

[freetrialshop]

Music Distribution: TuneCore Review – The Honest Truth

What TuneCore Does

Although we’ve already covered a bit about what TuneCore has to offer, I want to take a step back and begin with the basics of what TuneCore actually does. 

Perhaps you’ve heard of digital distribution but weren’t sure what exactly that means. 

In short, they serve as the middlemen between you as the independent artist and music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and more. Essentially, they help make your music available to the public for consumption. 

Platforms like TunCore also have to evolve with technology and changes within the music industry. The way music is consumed continues to change and as an artist, you want to maximize your potential to be heard as much as possible.

This leads us to our next point on where TuneCore can distribute your music.

Outlets & Release Options

TuneCore allows you to distribute your releases to over 150 digital stores and streaming services across 100+ countries worldwide. Beyond that, you get to pick and choose which stores you want your music distributed to.

What this means is that you don’t have to take the time to fill out paperwork, submit files, deal with approval processes, wade through guidelines, or deal with all of the other hassles that often come with digital distribution.

Not only does TuneCore handle this for you, but the company knows this side of the industry inside and out. This knowledge and experience, combined with close relationships with streaming platforms and digital storefronts, ensure that everything is handled efficiently and professionally.

While TuneCore works with major storefronts and streaming services like iTunes and Spotify, it also provides inroads to get your music listed on lesser-known, but still popular, sites and services.

Distribution To Social Platforms

Beyond distribution to streaming services and storefronts, you can also have TuneCore handle distribution to social platforms for additional exposure, sharing, and earning potential.

Even if social media platforms aren’t going to be your primary focus for marketing your music, you can’t deny social media’s influence on viral sharing.

From YouTube Shorts to TikToks to Instagram Stories, there’s no shortage of ways to leverage social media sharing to spread the word and get your music in front of huge numbers of potential fans quickly and without a lot of investment.

TuneCore is ahead of the curve on this in my opinion as the company offers a number of affordable ways to market music using social media.

Currently, there are no upfront costs to opt for releases with YouTube Content ID or other social options.

Although this differs slightly from other TuneCore services in that you do split revenue, there are no annual subscription costs to utilize these services.

I like to think of social through TuneCore as an added bonus that generates passive income, despite the split.

More importantly, I see these options as marketing tools. I use social media to gain added exposure and new fans instead of using it to make sales directly.

I want potential fans to see the name of the artists I’m producing, share posts and tracks with friends, and then funnel these shares into sales in the future.

Something else to consider in all of this is that social sharing encourages fan feedback, and in many cases, this is going to be as objective as it can get.

Because your music has the chance to reach new audiences who are engaging organically, you have the ability to hear straight from the horse’s mouth about what people like and don’t like about a particular aspect of a track, album, or musical concept.

Release Dates & Pre-Orders

Scheduling and promoting release dates are crucial for building hype around an album or song release.

This has become even more important in the digital age where social media hype can go viral around the world in a matter of hours.

With the help of TuneCore, you’re able to select a release date that aligns with your marketing plans.

You can also incorporate a pre-release campaign into your marketing strategy while using TuneCore.

The company allows you to make your album or single available for sale on iTunes before your official release date. This not only helps to build anticipation, but it can also give you an idea of your expected sales before release.

Unfortunately, TuneCore only allows you to do this with iTunes and no other store at the moment.

The company suggests that you provide between three and four weeks of planning to execute this properly. Although pre-release services are only available for iTunes at the moment, most artists utilize iTunes as a mainstay for releases anyway, so it shouldn’t be a deterrent.

[wyldblunt]

1, 4, 5 and 6 for the multiple commanders ask! (@where-is-caithe)

IM SO LATE OOPS i did actually answer all these previously so i'll copy-paste them here!

1. At what point during the story do they meet up?

they first meet in person early on in the personal story -- before the formation of the pact, but when trahearne is already thinking about it. we have a kind of slight canon divergence thing where when trahearne starts tentatively prodding the orders about his pact ideas, alan and glyn are the vigil and whispers representatives that he pulls in for early meetings.

but!!! at this point, it turns out, alan and glyn were already penpals! they had started some work-related correspondance about weaponry -- glyn was referred to alan by a mutual colleague -- and then they just kept exchanging letters even after alan had gotten the answers he needed. when they met, glyndwr was really surprised to find that the person with whom he'd been exchanging enthusiastic letters about the most efficient ways to explode the risen was in fact.... this extremely straight-laced, radiant, do-gooder vigil poster boy. he tried to wiggle out of the friendship at first bc alan's whole Aura Of Goodness made him extremely uncomfortable but alan did not allow it.

4. Did they have different responsibilities in the Pact?

yes! alan slots more into the "commander as the face of the pact," "hero of tyria" role -- something he's already perfectly geared towards due to being previously used as a recruitment poster boy for the vigil (something he eventually comes to resent). glyndwr, on the other hand, stays pretty firmly entrenched as a whispers lightbringer the whole time, does his best to stay out of the spotlight (something that falls apart pretty quickly after they take down zhaitan and only gets worse), and also is eventually heavily involved with the pale reavers, which alan isn't. basically, despite also being a commander and being heavily involved with the pact, glyn stays more in the overall role of a whispers consultant vs. alan is still very connected with the vigil but his actual activities end up leaning way more general/pact-focused.

5. Did all of them, only a few, or just one of them go through the dungeon storylines?

COUGHS. this is when i reveal i have done like. almost none of the dungeons and neither has my wife. so uh. i don't know, and we will get back to you on that.

i DO know that twilight arbor ends up cropping up in their stories at some point but we haven't hammered out the details at all. actually the only thing i know about twilight arbor and our canon has nothing much to do with alan and glyn at all -- callas manipulated the nightmare nobility involved in the explorable version to all show up there and get killed on purpose, specifically so she could steal their retinues.

6. Did they chase after Caithe together or was one/were some on the airship with Trahearne during the start of HoT?

neither of them chase after caithe! at least, not the way that it's written, because (in our shared opinion) the way it's written is absolutely fucking whack especially for a sylvari commander. (if the commander is so wildly hostile to caithe that it even strikes me as out of character and out of pocket for GLYNDWR, who literally does not like her and has never gotten along with her, it's even more bonkers for a more level-headed, generally grove-aligned sylvari commander like alan).

glyndwr actually has a full breakdown early on where, enraged by the way he and his troops are being treated by non-sylvari (with rytlock as the last straw), he basically just. says "fuck literally all of you" and bails, leaving his signature daggers buried in a tree by the central verdant brink camp so nobody will waste search parties looking for him. (they send search parties anyway bc he had not considered the fact that like, People Care About You?) at the end of this furious bender he coincidentally ends up in tarir anyway, which is where he regroups with the main cast. during all of this, alan IS trying to find caithe, but he absolutely believes it's a misunderstanding and that things will be cleared up when they have a chance to talk. [STARING DIRECTLY INTO THE CAMERA] WHICH IT FUCKING IS

glyndwr's disappearance, however brief it was, does MASSIVE damage to pretty much all of his relationships and is the beginning of the end of his romance with alan. he probably would've been really susceptible to the call if alan hadn't handled it with as much grace as he did, though -- alan is fucking PISSED, but he doesn't take it out on glyn in the moment, bc for him the most important thing is keeping everyone together and maintaining solidarity and morale. it's what he's best at.

[tallmantall]

Photo by bruce mars on Pexels.com Mind and body practices will help you in developing skills that you can strengthen as time passes. Use these practices to calmly respond to stress, to make it easier for your mind and body to remain focused and calm. This will aid your mental health and make the world a less stressful place for you. - How can yoga play a part in improving your mental health? Yoga emphasizes meditation and breathing practices, which together can help you calm and center your mind. It even helps your brain to work more efficiently. - Increase your brain function. Yoga helps improve functions that include reaction time, learning, memory, decision-making and reasoning. - Develop a sharper brain. When you practice yoga, your brain cells have a chance for developing new connections. This results in improvement in memory and learning skills. - Develop more positive moods. All types of exercise may boost mood by increasing feel-good endorphins and lowering stress hormone levels. Yoga also affects mood by raising the level of brain chemicals known as gamma-aminobutyric acids, which can help to decrease anxiety and improve your mood. #James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy wwwcelebratingyourgiftoflife.com Link for 40 Habits Signupbit.ly/40HabitsofMentalHealth If you'd like to follow and receive my daily blog in to your inbox, just click on it with Follow It. Here's the link https://follow.it/james-donaldson-s-standing-above-the-crowd-s-blog-a-view-from-above-on-things-that-make-the-world-go-round?action=followPub - How does Tai Chi improve your mental health? Tai Chi movements have minimal impact, and they are gently felt. The practice is flowing, slow and controlled, with graceful movements. The details behind movements are more layered. - Using controlled, coordinated movements The movements in Tai Chi help you to develop self-discipline. You’ll become more aware of your body and where and why it’s moving. This brings about order and organization, and a stable mind. - Working at a slow pace You need to slow yourself down to properly perform the Tai Chi movements. Your body relaxes and releases tension, stress and stiffness. You’ll “unwind” physically as well as mentally. - Becoming aware of your body, alignment and posture Tai Chi teaches about body posture and sinking the body’s weight through the body, down to your feet. This is known as grounding, and it brings about a sense of balance, stability and strength. Lifting up when you stretch your spine moves your thoughts to the sky. This will bring you feelings of calmness and clarity. - Bringing about intention and focus Tai Chi teaches movement with both intention and focus. Each movement is deliberate. This creates a mental and physical harmony that clears the mind, for better mental health. - Using proper breathing and realizing relaxation The crucial relationship between breathing, mind and body helps Tai Chi to help you in relaxing, which is vital to mental health. Slower, deeper breathing calms stress and allows you to inhale positivity and exhale negativity. - What are the mental health benefits of Qigong? Qigong calms your central nervous system, helping you not to live life in “fight or flight” response mode. The more you live in this mode, the more it wears on your mental health. Qigong helps improve: - Depression - Mood - Stress level - Anxiety level - Attention - Cognitive function - Memory Qigong’s benefits are great, and health-wise, of minimal risk. It gives you the chance to discover inner peace as you go through breathing, movement and on to focused intention. It heals not only mentally, but physically, as well. How Qigong Promotes Harmony of Mind, Body, and Spirit (verywellmind.com) Conclusion The mind and body therapies of yoga, Tai Chi and Qigong vary a great deal in the way that they work and in their origins. However, each is sustainable and low in intensity, and promotes physical and mental relaxation, well-being and a fuller connection of mind to body. These various therapies effectively can address the spiritual, social and behavioral aspects of your life, which leads to greater mental health. Photo by bruce mars on Pexels.com Read the full article

[marketing98789]

The Ultimate Checklist for Opening a Successful Restaurant

Opening a restaurant is an exciting journey, but it requires meticulous planning, execution, and management to succeed. Whether you’re a first-time restaurateur or an experienced operator, this checklist will guide you through every step of the process and help you avoid common pitfalls.

1. Define Your Concept and Vision

Your restaurant’s concept sets the foundation for everything else.

Decide on a clear theme: casual dining, fine dining, food truck, or fast casual.

Choose a cuisine that aligns with your target audience.

Craft a unique value proposition (e.g., farm-to-table ingredients or fusion dishes). Pro Tip: Research market trends to ensure your concept aligns with local demand.

2. Conduct Market Research

Understanding your audience and competition is essential.

Identify your target market (age, preferences, and spending habits).

Analyze competitors: What are they doing right? Where can you differentiate?

Survey potential customers to gauge interest and refine your idea.

3. Create a Solid Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan is crucial for securing funding and staying on track.

Outline your concept, target audience, and unique selling points.

Include financial projections, start-up costs, and revenue goals.

Detail your marketing and operational strategies.

4. Choose the Perfect Location

The success of your restaurant largely depends on its location.

Look for high foot traffic areas with ample parking.

Ensure the space meets zoning and legal requirements.

Consider factors like visibility, accessibility, and nearby competition.

5. Secure Permits and Licenses

Navigating legal requirements is a critical step.

Obtain health permits, liquor licenses, and business registrations.

Research local regulations for fire safety, waste disposal, and zoning.

Keep all paperwork organized to avoid delays in opening.

6. Design Your Menu

Your menu is the heart of your restaurant.

Craft a menu that balances creativity and profitability.

Use seasonal and local ingredients to stand out.

Include a variety of price points to appeal to a broad audience.

7. Invest in Restaurant Management Software

Efficient operations are impossible without the right tools.

Implement a robust solution like Straunt.ai to manage everything from inventory to employee scheduling.

Use Straunt.ai’s features like real-time analytics, customer feedback tracking, and automated reporting to skyrocket your business efficiency.

Integrate online ordering and delivery platforms for a seamless experience. Why Straunt.ai? It streamlines operations, reduces errors, and gives you actionable insights to grow your business.

8. Design Your Space

Your restaurant’s ambiance sets the tone for the customer experience.

Hire a professional designer to create a layout that maximizes space and aligns with your theme.

Choose furniture, lighting, and decor that complement your brand identity.

Ensure the kitchen layout is efficient for food preparation and service.

9. Build Your Team

Hiring the right people is critical to your restaurant's success.

Recruit skilled chefs, experienced servers, and friendly front-of-house staff.

Provide comprehensive training to ensure consistency and quality.

Use tools like Straunt.ai to schedule shifts and track performance seamlessly.

10. Market Your Restaurant Before the Opening

Building buzz before your launch is essential.

Use social media to showcase sneak peeks of your menu and space.

Offer early-bird discounts or soft opening invitations to local influencers.

List your restaurant on review platforms and Google My Business.

11. Host a Memorable Grand Opening

Your grand opening is your chance to make a lasting impression.

Plan activities like live music, food tastings, or giveaways.

Ensure your staff is well-prepared to handle the initial rush.

Use Straunt.ai’s CRM features to collect customer feedback and build loyalty programs.

12. Monitor and Improve

The work doesn’t stop once your doors are open.

Use data from Straunt.ai to analyze sales trends, customer preferences, and inventory performance.

Regularly update your menu based on customer feedback.

Stay proactive with marketing campaigns and seasonal promotions.

Final Thoughts

Opening a successful restaurant is a challenging yet rewarding journey. By following this comprehensive checklist and leveraging tools like Straunt.ai, you’ll be equipped to tackle operational hurdles, enhance customer experiences, and grow your business efficiently.

Download this guide, follow each step, and watch your restaurant dreams become a reality!

[handmadetneonsign]

Neon Open Sign: A Bright and Inviting Way to Attract Customers

Make Your Business Stand Out with a Neon Open Sign

In the world of business, first impressions matter. One of the easiest and most effective ways to draw attention to your storefront is with a neon open sign. The glowing lights of a neon sign make your business inviting and visible, both day and night. Whether you own a café, restaurant, boutique, or any other type of store, a neon open sign can elevate your visibility and attract more customers.

At HandmadeT Neon Sign, we offer a variety of neon open signs designed to enhance your business’s curb appeal. With our high-quality, energy-efficient LED neon lights, your business will always be welcoming and easy to find.

Why a Neon Open Sign is a Must-Have for Your Business

A neon open sign is more than just a light—it’s an essential marketing tool for any business. Here are a few reasons why:

Visibility 24/7: The bright, eye-catching glow of a neon open sign makes your business visible even from a distance, especially in low-light conditions.

Instant Attention: Neon signs are known for their attention-grabbing nature. With a neon open sign, you can immediately capture the interest of potential customers who walk or drive by.

Branding Opportunity: Customize your neon open sign to align with your brand’s colors and style, giving your business a unique identity that stands out from competitors.

Cost-Effective Marketing: Neon open signs are affordable and offer a high return on investment by driving more foot traffic to your store.

Find the Perfect Neon Open Sign at HandmadeT Neon Sign

At HandmadeT Neon Sign, we specialize in crafting neon open signs that make your business stand out. Our signs are made with high-quality materials and the latest LED technology, ensuring durability and energy efficiency.

Why choose us?

Customization Options: We offer a wide range of designs, and we can also create a custom neon open sign tailored to your business’s needs.

Durability and Efficiency: Our neon signs are made with long-lasting LED lights, which are energy-efficient and safe to use.

Affordable Prices: We believe in offering competitive prices without compromising on quality.

Fast Delivery: Once you place your order, we make sure to ship it quickly, so you can start attracting customers right away.

Browse our selection and find a neon open sign that will brighten up your storefront and bring more business your way.

Benefits of Using a Neon Open Sign for Your Business

Using a neon open sign offers several key benefits that can help your business thrive:

Increased Foot Traffic: Neon signs grab attention and encourage people to stop by. Whether you’re a coffee shop, boutique, or restaurant, an open sign can draw in customers who might have otherwise passed by.

Attract Night-Time Customers: A neon open sign is perfect for businesses that operate after dark. Its bright glow can help you stand out in the evening, increasing your chances of attracting late-night customers.

Easy-to-Read: Neon open signs are often designed with large, bold text that’s easy to read from a distance, making it simple for potential customers to spot your store from the road or sidewalk.

Tips for Choosing the Right Neon Open Sign

When selecting a neon open sign for your business, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

Size and Placement: Choose a size that fits your storefront and is visible from a distance. Make sure the sign is placed where it can be easily seen by passersby.

Design: Select a design that matches your business’s branding. Whether you want something classic or contemporary, you can find or customize a sign that suits your style.

Energy Efficiency: Opt for an LED neon open sign, as it uses less power than traditional neon lights, saving you money in the long run.

Weatherproofing: If your sign will be exposed to the elements, choose a model that’s weatherproof and durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions.

FAQs

Q1: Can I customize my neon open sign? Yes! We offer fully customizable neon open signs to match your business’s branding or specific requirements.

Q2: Are neon open signs energy-efficient? Absolutely! Our neon open signs are powered by LED lights, which are energy-efficient and cost-effective.

Q3: How long do neon open signs last? LED neon open signs can last up to 50,000 hours, providing you with years of reliable service.

Conclusion

A neon open sign is an essential tool for any business that wants to stand out and attract more customers. Whether you're running a retail shop, restaurant, or office, a neon open sign can make your space more inviting and visible. At HandmadeT Neon Sign, we offer a wide range of neon open signs that are customizable, energy-efficient, and affordable. Browse our selection today and brighten up your storefront with a neon open sign that gets noticed!

[laraphleb]

Improving Healthcare: The Rise of Mobile Phlebotomy Services for Convenient Blood Draws

Streamlining Healthcare: The Rise of⁢ Mobile Phlebotomy‌ Services ⁢for Convenient Blood Draws

The healthcare ‌landscape has‌ evolved tremendously over⁤ the past few⁢ decades, with technology playing a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and experiences. Among these advancements, the rise of mobile phlebotomy services ‌stands out, offering convenient blood draws that align ⁣seamlessly with the modern patient’s lifestyle. As more individuals ⁤seek ⁤hassle-free ​healthcare solutions, ⁤understanding the benefits of mobile phlebotomy ⁤can enhance the overall​ patient experience.

What is Mobile Phlebotomy?

Mobile phlebotomy refers to ⁤a‍ service​ where trained phlebotomists visit patients in their⁣ homes, workplaces, or other convenient locations ⁣to perform blood draws. This service ‌eliminates the need for patients to travel to a clinic or hospital, especially beneficial for ⁢those with mobility challenges,⁣ busy ⁤schedules, or ⁤those residing in⁢ rural areas.

The Growing Demand for Mobile Phlebotomy Services

Several⁣ factors have contributed to the surge in demand for mobile phlebotomy⁣ services:

Aging Population: As‌ the population ⁣ages, more individuals require regular blood tests, making⁣ mobility a ⁤challenge.

Increased Health Awareness: Growth in health consciousness has led to more frequent check-ups and preventive screenings.

Technological Advancements: Innovations in telemedicine have made at-home ⁢healthcare solutions more prevalent.

Benefits of Mobile Phlebotomy Services

Mobile ‌phlebotomy services offer numerous advantages for patients and healthcare ‌providers alike:

1. ⁢Convenience

Perhaps the most significant benefit of mobile phlebotomy is its convenience. Patients ‍can schedule appointments at ⁤times that⁤ suit them, reducing the burden of⁢ travel and ⁣long waits in clinics.

2. Comfort and Privacy

Receiving blood draws in the comfort of one’s home ensures a more relaxed experience, particularly for individuals who experience⁤ anxiety in clinical settings.

3. Accessibility

Mobile⁣ phlebotomy services​ can reach patients who may otherwise have​ difficulty‌ accessing traditional healthcare facilities, such as ⁤the elderly, disabled, and those in remote areas.

4.‍ Reduced ‍Risk of ⁣Infection

With mobile services, there is typically less‍ foot traffic compared to hospitals or⁢ clinics, lowering the⁤ risk of exposure⁣ to infectious diseases.

5. Improved Patient ‍Compliance

Having the ‌option of at-home blood draws ​can lead to improved patient compliance for necessary tests and screenings, crucial for ‌chronic condition management.

Practical Tips for​ Using ⁣Mobile Phlebotomy⁣ Services

To‌ ensure a ‍smooth and efficient experience with mobile phlebotomy, consider the ‌following tips:

Choose‍ a Reputable Service: Research and ⁣select a mobile phlebotomy service with qualified phlebotomists and ‍positive ⁢reviews.

Prepare for Your Appointment: Ensure you are hydrated and⁣ follow any pre-test instructions from your physician ⁤or the phlebotomist.

Have Your Information​ Ready: Keep your doctor’s orders, identification, and insurance information easily accessible.

Communicate Openly: Inform the phlebotomist about any medical ⁤conditions or concerns you may‍ have.

Case ​Studies:‍ Real-Life Experiences

Many patients have shared positive experiences regarding mobile ​phlebotomy services:

Patient Name

Location

Experience

John Doe

Downtown Seattle

“The phlebotomist⁤ was friendly and⁢ made the process painless. I saved ⁣so much time!”

Jane Smith

Suburban Chicago

“As someone with anxiety, having ⁣my test‍ done ​at ‍home was a game-changer.”

Emily Johnson

Rural Texas

“I struggle to get ‍to the clinic, but this​ service brings care right to my doorstep.”

Understanding Costs and Insurance Coverage

One common ​question regarding mobile phlebotomy services is their cost and whether​ insurance covers them. Here’s ​a breakdown:

Service Type

Average Cost

Insurance Coverage

Basic Blood Draw

$50 – $100

Often covered; ‍check with provider

Complex Panels

$100 – $250

May ​require ⁤pre-authorization

Travel ‍Fee

$25 – $50

Not typically covered

Future Trends ‌in Mobile Phlebotomy

The future of mobile​ phlebotomy ⁣services looks promising ​as advancements in ⁤technology, such as telehealth⁢ integration and mobile health apps, continue to change the‌ healthcare landscape. Here are potential⁢ trends:

Increased ⁣Integration ‌with Telehealth: Combining⁢ telemedicine and mobile⁢ phlebotomy can streamline communication between patients and healthcare⁣ providers.

Expansion of Services: ‍Expect mobile ‌phlebotomy providers to ⁤offer additional lab ‌tests and services, such as point-of-care⁣ testing.

Enhanced Technology: Utilization of mobile apps⁣ for ⁤scheduling and tracking blood⁣ draws may⁣ enhance⁢ patient experience further.

Conclusion

The ⁣rise of mobile phlebotomy ⁣services symbolizes a significant shift towards more patient-centric healthcare. By streamlining the blood draw process, these services‍ provide unparalleled convenience, ‍comfort, and accessibility. Patients can now receive necessary medical care without the stress of traditional clinical settings. As mobile ⁤phlebotomy continues to evolve, ⁣it​ promises to offer even greater innovations that will further transform healthcare ‍delivery for the better.

https://phlebotomycareertraining.net/improving-healthcare-the-rise-of-mobile-phlebotomy-services-for-convenient-blood-draws/

[seo-agency-digital-media]

Cutting-Edge Web Design Services in Thiruvallur: Elevate Your Online Presence

As much as the digital world revolves, designing a nice website is not just being a business card anymore; it is an element to attract more clients towards you, is the identity for your brand name, and how to build up your business. Thiruvallur: The fastest-growing center of small and medium businesses. Thus, it is now finding an increased demand for more professional web design services providing not only aesthetically pleasing websites but also with user-friendly, optimized and responsive designs. Let us see how web design in Thiruvallur is changing the rules to help local businesses do wonders online.

Why Does My Business Need Web Design Web design is more than just colors and fonts. It's the fusion of functionality, aesthetics, and user experience in the creation of a website that will adequately represent your brand and fulfill the needs of your audience. Here's why you should invest in professional web design:

First impressions are what usually will make visitors and customers like your company because, in most cases, the website is where clients get their first touch and experience of your company.

Better User Experience: a well-designed site must make considerations for navigation, readability, and usability with a site that navigates for easy access and satisfaction, a visitor finds it quick to locate things of need, and enjoy the visit itself.

Increased Credibility and Trust: Professional, polished web design can increase your credibility exponentially. People are more likely to trust and do business with brands that look new, clean, and efficient.

SEO Benefits: Not only does web design appeal to the eyes, but it also appeals to structure. A well-coded website, optimized for speed and accessibility, will improve the ranking in search engines so that customers in Thiruvallur can more easily find you.

Trend of Modern Web Designing Thiruvallur web designers have adopted all the latest trends to compete with the challenges in the cyber marketplace and come out with something special in website designing. The current industry trend is as follows:

Responsive Design: As mobile users grow, a responsive website that looks great on various devices is more than necessary. Responsiveness ensures that your website is performing well and looks good on all screen sizes from smartphones to desktops.

Minimalist Aesthetics: Modern web design trends are more towards simplicity. Clean, uncluttered designs with ample whitespace enhance readability, allowing users to focus on the actual information without distractions.

Large, bold typographies are emerging as common, which communicate the message through brands more easily while simultaneously giving them unique visual flavor.

Fast Speed: Everyone expects websites to load under seconds. Web designers prefer lightweight themes and optimized images along with other coding and optimization techniques in order to minimize the time it will take to load the content.

Accessibility: The first and foremost important aspect is making websites accessible to everyone, including disabled people. Through the use of alt text, keyboard-friendly navigation, and proper color contrast, web designers are making websites inclusive and complying with accessibility standards.

Key Services Offered by Web Design Companies in Thiruvallur The web designing companies in Thiruvallur can be utilized differently. Each one has their own small start-ups for which will surely come into use or even that is already so well-established it has far gone into passing the initial phase but is now just trying to gain renewed presence across the web.

Custom web design-the ultimate for any unique client, starting from layout designs to functionality and user experience. A custom site is there to make your website distinctive, and thus it aligns to your brand identity.

E-commerce Solutions: With the booming popularity of online shopping, e-commerce websites need to be user-friendly, secure, and optimized for conversion. Web designers are now creating streamlined shopping experiences that are coupled with secure payment gateways, catalog management, and fast loading times.

CMS Development: CMS-based websites like WordPress or Joomla, which business owners can simply manage and update, also allow business owners to develop user-friendly CMS platforms from designers in Thiruvallur.

SEO Focused Design. An SEO-friendly website is required for high visibility. On-page SEO elements like metadata, image optimization, and internal linking are part of web design services to help your site rank better in search results.

Website Maintenance Support. Website maintenance is important. Most web design companies also provide maintenance services to keep your site secure and up-to-date and function smoothly.

How to Select the Best Web Design Service in Thiruvallur Selecting the perfect web design service can sometimes be tricky. Here are some aspects that need to be looked at while choosing the appropriate web designer or agency for your business in Thiruvallur: Portfolio and Experience : Go through the portfolio of the designer so that you may judge the style, capabilities, and experience of the person. This will give you an idea whether their expertise suits your vision.

Client Reviews and Testimonials: View reviews and testimonials online. A good number of favorable reviews from previous clients typically means the designer is reliable and of a good quality standard.

Technical Skills: Not exactly about designing anymore. Check if coders know HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or CMS platforms and responsive design techniques.

Project Timeline and Communication: This must be very clear. Delivery on time is very important, so the designer must be realistic with the timeline, and also responsive to all your queries and input on the project.

Budget Compatibility: Don't be too stingy, but also make sure that the service falls within your budget. Many web designers have various packages, so choose the one that best offers the value for your money.

Advantages of Local Web Design Services in Thiruvallur The following are advantages of using a local web designer:

Personalized Service: The local designers can be more accessible and hold face-to-face consultations, resulting in a more tailored service.

Understanding of Local Market Needs: Designers with knowledge of Thiruvallur understand the needs of the local market. They understand the preferences of the market, the industry, and the competition in the market, which would help to craft a website that will resonate with the target audience.

Quicker support and troubleshooting: With a local provider, faster support is usually rendered which becomes necessary for constant upkeep as well as when immediate concerns need to be handled.

Conclusion: Boost your Brand with Professional Web Design in Thiruvallur Professional web designing services can really transform a business, whether in Thiruvallur or elsewhere. A good, well-designed website has the potential to gain the confidence of clients and attract them to visit it by inducing potential customers to take that step for the benefit of your business. Thus, a web designer in Thiruvallur specializes in building websites that will not only look great but also deliver effective results in terms of the user experience and functionality.

To take your business to the next level, you can go a step ahead by reviewing the advanced web design service options available in Thiruvallur. Do you need a newly designed website, an online e-commerce site, or just a refreshing new version of your existing website? In today's world of digital advancement, a website professionally designed is the portal to success.

Final Words

Right web design service can be a game-changer. And after all, a website is an investment in the future of your brand. With the help of professional web design in Thiruvallur, you are strategizing to enhance your online visibility, get closer to the audience, and push your business to new heights.