#free agency frenzy

[stereax]

GET FUCKED

#beat reporter stereax #tony deangelo #philadelphia flyers #free agency frenzy

[the-football-chick]

The new league year has officially begun and here is another round of moves that happened on Wednesday.

IG: nfl (3/13/24)

#nfl #free agency frenzy #jimmy garoppolo #jameis winston #mason rudolph #calvin ridley

[comphyjost]

matthew tkachuk rn

#matthew tkachuk #calgary flames #johnny gaudreau #free agency frenzy #meme

[zanarkandskylines]

Hiii just thinking about Bakugo x reader where reader’s in danger from a villain attack and Bakugo saves her heheh. And then the media’s eating it up like 😭😭

this is such a cute idea!! ✨

Accidental Damage

『♡』  pro-hero support fem!reader x pro-hero bakugo ╰➤ ꒰ pro-heroes au | secret bf/gf ꒱ ♡ katsuki bakugo masterlist ♡

summary: you've been swamped with work as a pro-hero support engineer, pushing 80 hour weeks over the busy season, and finally have a day off! bakugo, however, isn't so lucky and ends up getting called in for an emergency patrol during your movie date. instead of sitting at home, you decide to treat yourself and head out into the city. turns out, you probably should have stayed home...considering the fashion district you frequently visit was the villain-of-the-week's choice of attack. tags & warnings: mild violence, anxiety, cursing | lovers (bf/gf), fluff, emotional comfort, physical hurt, protective bakugo, reader doesn't have a quirk, reader's a badass, accidental pda, oops the secret's out now, bakugo treats reader like a princess a/n: wanted to change up the dynamic a little and make reader & bakugo secretly date from opposing sides of the hero world! i'd love to see more of the support class tbh ꒰ Ao3 version | word count; 2,890 ꒱

It’s your day off! After working endless hours for the past month, you’re finally free of the frenzy of Support Request busy season. Spring is often the time that most heroes submit their upgrade and repair requests to their agency’s support team, resulting in a non-stop effort to get through everything in a timely manner. The agency doesn’t want to be responsible for a hero not being able to perform their patrol duties from malfunctioning hero attire.

The original plan of the day was to spend it in your apartment, watching movies with your bombastic hero of a boyfriend - Dynamight. Unfortunately, just like 9 out of 10 other times, he was called out on an emergency shift to cover for someone else.

Being the girlfriend of the number 6 hero wasn’t easy, especially because no one knew you two were even together.

The two of you attended UA High together in separate classes - Class A and Class H. You knew of one another, but never had a chance to talk outside of the occasional ‘hey.’ After graduating from UA, the two of you happen to be hired to the same agency in Tokyo as you were assigned to his support team. A few late night dinners, long phone calls, and plenty of flirty banter later, you started quietly dating the explosive hero. It’s been about two years and you’re happy as can be - secret or not. It wasn’t for any purpose other than to keep the media out of Bakugo’s personal life and focused on his hero career as it was common for the public to become judgmental and fans to get…protective, to say the least. The last thing you wanted to do was to risk his ranking or public image for the sake of labeling him as "taken."

───

"Oh god fuckin' dammit," Bakugo cursed as his phone rang on loop, vibrating to the edge of the coffee table. Removing his arm from your waist, he frustratingly snatched it from the table before the final ring. You caught a glimpse of the caller ID before he answered and left the couch.

AGENCY EMERGENCY LINE

Aww...we just started the movie, you thought, disappointed in the timing.

It was unavoidable, though, considering he was in the top 10 of the pro hero circuit in a record amount of time after graduating from UA. He was damn good at his job and worked his ass off to get where he is today. You're so proud of him and all he's accomplished, but that doesn't mean that you hate how often they pull him back into work on his days off. He hates it just as much as you do.

You overhear a bit of the conversation as he moved to the hallway to take the call.

"Dynamight, we need to you to assist..."

"Spare me the damn formalities and just tell me where the hell you're sending me."

"It's downtown, sector 24, you'll be going along side..."

That's all you heard before he was out of earshot.

You never held it against Bakugo whenever this would happen, it wasn't his fault at all, he had a job to do and he was needed - that's all it was.

He returned from the hallway, a scowl on his face as he plopped onto the cushion next to you. You already know what he's about to say.

"I'm sorry sweets, I gotta go back to work." He leans over and plants a soft kiss on your cheek. "What a fuckin' week. Been lookin' forward to finally sitting at home."

You frown as you squeeze his hand reassuringly. "It's okay, the world needs the great Dynamight."

Bakugo groans in defeat, leaving the couch to run for the door. He's about to put his shoes on and grab his keys before he pauses, dropping his boots in the entryway and skipping back over to the couch. He bends over the arm and sits awkwardly on it as he grabs your chin, turning your face to his. He places a kiss to your lips and it leaves you breathless, like always.

“Love you, sweetheart,” he purrs, finger brushing along the top of your cheek.

“Love you too, Kats,” you respond quietly as his hand leaves your cheek. “Be safe, text me when you head home.”

He grabs his keys and wallet from the entryway, shuffling through it and placing his credit card back onto the table.

"Leavin' my card for you to take, baby. Go buy somethin' pretty for yourself."

And just like that, he's out the door and on his way back to the agency for the fifth time this week.

───

Bakugo had a habit of not letting you pay for almost anything, no matter how much you protested against him - it was one of his ways of showing his love for you. He would often scold you for having somewhat of an overspending problem, but your motto was always “money comes back!” He’d roll his eyes and hand you his credit card, preferring to spoil you instead of letting you drag yourself into debt. You learned to stop refusing his offer to pay for things a few months into your relationship, knowing full well he'd never back down after he'd steal your card out of your hands or swap it for his when you weren't looking.

Might as well take him up on his offer and go shopping!

Strolling down one of the main streets of the fashion district, you pop into one of your favorite clothing boutiques to browse around. It's busy for a Sunday afternoon, but the crowds don't bother you. Whenever you came here, Bakugo would often wait a street or two over to avoid said crowds. He hated them, but never wanted to leave you alone, so he'd tag along in ways that made him comfortable.

You're flipping through a sales rack outside of the store when a sudden rumbling in the street catches your attention. An earthquake, maybe? A couple of people around you notice as well and stop what they’re doing to focus on the vibrations. A moment later, the street becomes riddled with panic as the entire crowd is rushing in the opposite direction.

Of course a villain would show up to ruin your shopping trip.

You always make sure for these type of scenarios that you keep a spare gadget in your bag for protection. Bakugo wasn’t satisfied with you carrying just a normal self defense weapon, so he helped (more so forced you to) craft a device that would allow you to “save your own quirk-less ass” if push came to shove. He knew how talented you were and dedicated to your craft, always thinking up new gadgets and drawing plans off the clock. He wanted to encourage you to create your own genius contraption rather than solely making things for the heroes around you.

Digging through your bag, you grab onto the make-shift object that resembles a pair of bracelets. You slip them on and push the buttons on the underside of each bangle - activating the mechanism inside. They cover your hands in a binding of metals that resemble armored gloves and crawl up your forearms and end at your elbows.

Time to see what these babies can do!

You laugh to yourself at the thought of calling your creations "babies." It fondly reminds you of Hatsume and how she would be ecstatic over her piles of support items she's constructed, constantly flailing around the support classroom with glee.

Your attention is roughly brought back to the villain landing a few stores away from you as a giant gust of wind forces remaining civilians out of his way. He's sporting a jetpack-like bag on his back, motorized arms poking out of it like a spider. He spots you out of the corner of his eye, immediately curious about your support gear.

"Oh? What do we have here?" He questions, gesturing in your direction. "Those look too high and mighty for a girl your size. Are you even a hero?"

You know he's trying to antagonize you and get under your skin, and unfortunately, it works. But if you can keep him distracted until a hero shows, he'll do less damage to the area and you can prevent unnecessary causalities.

"Who needs a hero when a 'normie' like me can kick your ass with my bare fists?" you instigate, praying that'll convince him to shift his full attention to you. It does, aggressively launching himself in your direction with his...spider legs?...and lands in front of you, bending over to level his eyes with yours.

"Those are some brave words for a bug like you."

You take a deep breath, steadying your stance before landing a swift right hook to his jaw, sending him soaring into the street. Your gloves make a soft hiss as they release the energy stored inside them.

Yes! God, that felt good. Is this how Kat feels?!

The villain clamors to his feet, seething with rage as he readjusts his set of translucent goggles.

"You little bitch!"

You brace yourself for impact by crossing the gloves in front of you, summoning a temporary energetic barrier to guard against his attack. The force sends you stumbling backwards, falling straight on your ass as you roll out of the way of a robot leg slamming down next to you.

Just keep moving, don't stop moving, remember what Kat taught you!

You're extremely thankful in this moment that Bakugo practically forced you to train with him. He was adamant on you having basic fighting ability - hand to hand combat, some karate, self-defense moves, and more importantly, staying in shape to outrun any villains. He didn't think you were incapable of handling yourself, he just wanted you to be able to kick some ass while doing it.

As you're zigzagging the villain, dozens of cameramen and reporters are flooding the scene, desperate to get the 'first look' on the details of the commotion. Your tunnel vision on the current threat in front of you keeps you busy, not noticing the massive media crowd forming around you on both ends of the street.

The villain jumps up, catching you off guard as he lands behind you, smacking you in the back with a robot arm with a loud thwap that sends you careening into a clothing rack on the street. A collective gasp is heard from the peanut gallery, clamoring over your safety for 'views.'

You may or may not have hit your head - unsure if you're dizzy from the fall or a potential concussion. Shaking yourself out of the haze, you scramble away from a follow-up attack from one of his mechanized tendrils.

"Aw, are you backing away from the fight you started?!" He taunts, arrogantly laughing at your defensive maneuvers.

In the distance, you begin to hear soft booms echo through the air, steadily growing in volume. You knew exactly who was rushing to the scene.

Oh buddy, now you're fucked.

You can't help the devilish smirk that crosses your lips, anticipating your hero boyfriend to show up and blow this guy into the pavement. In the interim, you have one final trick up your sleeve - literally - to give this guy a pre-beatdown of your own.

"Nah, just wearing you down so I can knock your ass out!" you boast, channeling your best "hero" speech.

With a few taps of your fingers on the metal gripping your forearms, the gloves begin to channel energy into the palms of your hands, lighting up with blue sparks as it charged. You needed an extra 15 seconds before they were ready to burst. The villain notices, swiping at your feet to knock you down before you can properly dodge. The breath is knocked from your lungs and leaves you gasping for air.

Boom, boom...boom!

You can tell Bakugo's almost here as the explosions get louder with each burst.

Just 5 more seconds...

"Yo, spider-freak!" Bakugo roars from atop a nearby building. "We can do this th' easy way or hard way. Your choice, jackass!"

He hasn't noticed you yet as your gloves begin to beep, signaling the charge is ready for use.

Perfect timing.

Getting to your feet is more of a struggle than anticipated as you're still recovering from the previous strike. Wobbling on jelly legs, you plant your feet solidly on the pavement to the best of your ability, bring your hands up in front of you and aim your palms at the villain. Your loud cackle catches Bakugo’s attention, sending a panic coursing through his veins as he finally sees you - shaking like a leaf with a grin on your face.

What the fuck is she doing?!

His train of thought is interrupted by your gloves firing off a massive burst of energy, hitting the villain square in the chest and slamming him into the ground, shattering his robotic accessories in the process.

Holy shit, those fuckers work after all.

Bakugo can't help but snort at your ballsy attempt to hold down the villain, feeling simultaneously proud and scared shitless that you'd put yourself in the middle of harms way for strangers - just like himself. He's blasting off the building and down to the street to wrap up what's left of this D-lister villain.

The blowback from the gloves, however, is way harder to handle than anticipated. As the gloves emit vapor and a sharp hissing noise, you're sent teetering backward, tumbling across the street until your body skids to a halt.

───

Everything fucking hurts.

But holy shit, that was exhilarating.

There's sirens in the distance while you lay there, signaling that they're more than likely surrounding the asshole and taking him into custody. You groan and grumble while sitting up, propping yourself up on your elbows as a loud thud lands at your feet.

You know the sound of those boots anywhere.

"Dynamight?" you feign, pretending to be distressed after the fight. "Oh, you showed up at the perfect -,"

He cuts you off with a sharp quip, his voice gruff with a playful tone. "Shut the fuck up."

Bakugo crouches down as he's grabbing your wrists and hoisting you up onto your feet. He holds onto you for a moment while you get your bearings, wobbling like a baby deer. Once you're steady, he pulls you flush to his body and cups your chin in his gloved hand. Before you can protest his movements, he swoops down and your lips meet.

He's kissing you.

In the middle of the street.

In front of every single press company in the city.

In public.

You squeak against his lips, putting your hands on his chest to create space between the two of you as you pull away. He's perplexed at your hesitation until the realization whips him back to reality.

"Fuck!" Bakugo snarled, a pink blush creeping up the back of his neck. He was too caught up in the moment with adoration over your bravery that he...forgot he was on duty.

Cameras and reporters are rushing over, shouting a million different questions at the two of you.

"Miss! Are you a hero, too? What's your name?"

"Are you Dynamight's side-kick?"

"Dynamight, you saved the city once again! Who is this young lady in relation to you?"

"Are you worried this will affect your reputation with your supporters?"

"God, the agency is gonna fuckin' hate me for this," he growls.

Oh no. You just inadvertently tainted his reputation. He might get demoted...if only you had just stayed home today.

Bakugo turns toward the thousands of camera flashes and video cameras, arm slung around your shoulder.

"This is y/n, she's a support engineer from my agency and saved your asses today," he says confidently. "And she's my girlfriend, so don't get any wrong ideas about it."

What?!

The mob of media personnel begin speaking all at once to Bakugo again, shouting question after question.

"How long have you two been together?"

"Is she in training to be a hero, too?"

"That device was impressive! How did you manufacture it?"

"Do you have a quirk?"

You're standing there, dumbfounded that Bakugo just openly admitted to your relationship on live TV and to news reporters. You can't help but flush red over the barrage of questions, not used to this kind of interrogation in your line of support work.

He sighs, shaking his head as he removes his arm from your shoulder and moving to hold your hand.

"Quit it the questions, we're leaving."

With that, he parts through the crowd with you following behind, crossing over to the other street before letting go of your hand.

"Katsuki...are you sure you’re okay with this?" you ask timidly, aware that you can't take back what he said.

"Idiot, I don't lie about things like that. Now I get to show off my perfect princess."

You say nothing in return, just quietly squeal and do a little happy dance.

Perfect princess.

"Let's get your stubborn ass to the medical team, you look like shit," he teases, poking you in the forehead. "And we should probably tone back the output on those gauntlets, that coulda killed somebody - or you."

You hum in acknowledgement and follow him down the street, heading back to the agency together.

think of the gloves as, like, ironman suit type gear? how you can just pop them on and use them as enhanced fighting gear. hehe, a cute little panic fluff is always fun. thanks much again to @queenpiranhadon for the prompt!! 💜

Divider by : @/saradika

#bakugo katsuki #bakugo x reader #katsuki bakugo x reader #pro hero bakugo x reader #bakugo fluff #pro hero bakugo #bakugo x y/n #bakugo x you #bnha #mha #katsuki bakugo #☆.ask rei #☆.rei writes

[thewales]

Pendejos todos.

The disproportionate way in which everyone – fans, detractors, and the press – have handled the issue of the Princess of Wales and her children's photo, along with her announced withdrawal from public life, is a disturbing reflection of the current state of social media and the disconnect that exists between these platforms, common sense, reality, and respect for privacy.

Since that January 17th, when Kensington Palace announced that the princess had undergone surgery that would keep her away from the public eye for a considerable time, a kind of collective frenzy was unleashed. It was as if permission had been granted to unleash the contained stupidity that had somehow been latent in society. Detractors rejoiced as if they had won the lottery, while some fans suddenly felt insecure about the uncertainty of the future. Meanwhile, the press, which had been holding back its claws, now seemed like a rabid animal eager to break free from its chains.

As the days passed, the madness took over social media even more. The most absurd theories found an echo online, demands for proof of life became louder and more absurd, and empathy for the right to privacy seemed to fade in the face of media exposure's voracity. Many completely forgot that behind the tiara, there was a woman with rights.

It's ironic that in an era where the fight for justice and gender equality has become so vocal on social media, we forget that Catherine, before being a princess, is a woman who deserves respect and protection. She's criticized for her apparent perfection, as if being flawless were a reason for reproach rather than admiration. Contemporary feminists seem to have lost sight of women who choose to keep their private lives out of the media frenzy, preferring instead those who constantly present themselves as victims, repeating the same victimizing discourse over and over again. It seems that only those who fit into that mold are worthy of protection and solidarity.

But then, the palace published a photo. And the little restraint that the press had, broke. Not to mention the fans. What may have been an attempt to appease the masses and counteract the absurd game of the press and the public, ended up fuelling the flames of controversy. It's true that the palace and the princess herself made mistakes, but the disproportionate reaction of the press was equally regrettable.

We live in a world where 95% of people on the internet edit the photos they upload. In this context, it's difficult to discern what is real and what is not. In the realm of celebrities, this practice is even more common. The difference is that they not only edit minor details, but also alter their faces and bodies, and this seems to be accepted without question. However, the same press that feeds on these images and agencies like Getty, AP, REUTERS, etc., decided to remember their lost ethics and set an example with the mistakes in photo of the Princess of Wales and her children, which is absurd.

They are talking about not being able to trust the palace anymore, they have accused Catherine of thousands of stupid things and the saddest thing of all is that they are doing it at a time when Catherine is recovering from something that was clearly serious. Does her mental health not matter? Do Catherine and her family really not deserve privacy? Is society really that rotten?

It's easy to think that they don't pay attention to social media, but at the same time, it would be naive to believe that they have no idea what is being said. How could they not when it's everywhere?

The question I have been asking myself for a few days now is, was all the uproar made by the press, the agencies necessary? Will ALL celebrities be treated the same way? Will ALL publications uphold this ethics from now on? Or will this special treatment only be given to William and Catherine?

The answer for me is obvious. I don't know about you.

The palace was clear from the beginning about when the princess would return to public life, how long she would be in the hospital, and requested, from the beginning, respect for her privacy. However, no one seemed to care. Now everything is out of control. Fans look for scapegoats when they are also part of the problem. The press pretends to be judge, victim, perpetrator, and defense at the same time, and the haters... well, they continue to be the same miserable ones as always.

The fans, or those who claim to be, have also lost control. Instead of keeping calm and simply waiting, they have become increasingly insecure. They discuss diagnoses, talk about conspiracy theories, and, basically, have become what they claim to hate. And they do it all at the same time. Sad reality.

Although I am a fan of William and Catherine, I recognize that their mistake was foolish and amateurish but at the same time, as a person with more than one neuron functioning in their head, understands that the reaction all this has generated has been disproportionate, absurd, and stupid.

There are things happening in the world millions of times more important and serious to be wasting time on such insignificant things like this.

It saddens me that Catherine's name has been mentioned so many times on the internet for the wrong reasons. It's sad that she and her family are the favourite punching bag of many.

The press finally found something to criticize the Waleses about, after more than 20 years.

It would be interesting to see the actions that Kensington Palace takes regarding its relationship with the press, particularly when it comes to personal and private matters. It will be interesting to see if they will release photos for Prince Louis' birthday and if the agencies that are now hitting their chest with morals and ethics will be allowed to use them.

It will be interesting to see what happens when Catherine eventually returns to public life.

The only thing that became clear to me a few days ago, is that the society we live in today is hypocritical and annoying. The press, despite pretending otherwise, has lost all semblance of impartiality and objectivity. Although it's hard to believe they ever knew what that was. And the fans... often end up being the worst enemies of their favourites.

#i really dont care if you dont think like me #the prince of wales #the princess of wales #all this is ABSURD #this is not a crisis #ans if you think it is you need to touch some grass

[bunnyswritings]

Fake dating prompts (with a twist)

Fake dating x enemies to lovers trope: A is a famous actor/actress who gets caught up in scandal one day, with rumours claiming that he/she is gay / sugaring minors etc (something controversial). Cue B, who is a (poor rookie) lawyer part of the law firm that represents A's agency. But it just so happens that B has crossed paths with A already, though they aren't on good terms over something petty. However, A is always seen with B due to work. To mitigate the situation, A's agency drafts up a dating contract, convincing B to take it up for the obscene monetary reward.

Fake dating x forced roommate trope: A's landlord informs them they their new roommate, B, will be moving in soon. To A's surprise, B turns out to be her high school best friend, whom they have lost contact with all these years since graduating. To make matters even more frenzied, A's ex is back in town, trying to get back together with them. Desperate to ward off A's ex from causing further emotional wreckage, A and B embark on 3 weeks of fake dating, given the already perfect set up of roommates. Only that those 3 weeks might just be the catalyst for something more.

Fake dating x exes to lovers trope: It is the holiday season and A goes back to visit her family house. It all seems like routine to them, until A realises that their entire family has no clue that they are no longer together with B. Unbeknownst to A, A's mother had already invited B to their annual holiday family gathering; much to A's surprise, B actually shows up. They spend the week walking on eggshells around each other, and simultaneously pretending to still be in love in front of A's family. Will this one week reignite the spark between them?

Fake dating x wedding meet cute: When A gets an invitation to attend her university friend's wedding, they know that they will be bombarded by millions of invasive questions (from those judgmental acquaintances) around work, family and the most dreaded of all, their love life. A bites the bullet, however, given that it's a good friend's wedding. To A's surprise, they meet B, an old university crush at the wedding venue, who senses A's uneasiness. B boldly suggests that they act as A's partner just to spite those nasty 'friends' of A's. Could this lead to them catching feelings for each other?

Hope someone finds these helpful! I'm just starting out with this blog, but my ask box is always open for requests - feel free to drop any!

#writing prompts #prompts #fanfiction #ao3 fanfic #story prompt #fake dating #fake dating prompts #fake dating trope #fake dating au #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #alternate universe #au prompts #otp prompts #meet cute #bunnyswritings

[valiantstarlights]

Omegaverse Lore: The Crucial Hours

I originally posted this omegaverse lore on @mr-sadman discord, but I'm gonna post it here as well for easier access. 😊 Feel free to use this in your omegaverse stories, as long as you give credit/tag me. Thank you! 🙇‍♀️ I'm looking forward to seeing all the hurt/comfort/spicy fics inspired by this. 🥰

Note: I have rewritten most of this to sound like something you would read in a medical brochure for fun, and then I went ahead and made an actual medical brochure (cover) for it. 😂

The Crucial Hours during Heat/Rut Cycles: A recommended reading for alphas and omegas who have reached their majority

--

There's no need to feel overwhelmed when your cycle comes! It's a natural part of life, and we here at (redacted) Hospital believe that the more prepared you are, the smoother your cycle will go. So, here are the most important things you need to know about your cycle, grouped by hours.

--

Hour 1 to 3

You feel fine, except you're sweating more than usual. You know that feeling when it's humid? You feel like that, except it's worse, because nothing you do alleviates the feeling of stickiness.

Do not ignore or power through this stage when you start to feel the symptoms! Immediately call your partner if you have one, or a heat/rut agency if you don't, as soon as possible.

Hour 4 to 6

You're still sweating, but now you also feel confused and forgetful. During this time, your body's temperature also increases, and you may even experience having hallucinations.

Again, it is very important that you secure for yourself a partner as soon as possible. So if you haven't done so already, do it now.

Hour 7 to 9 (with partner)

Your heat/rut will proceed as normal, depending on how long your cycle lasts.

A regular heat cycle for omegas has a duration of 3 days, and it occurs 4 to 6 times a year. A regular rut cycle for alphas has a duration of 1 week, and it occurs 2 to 3 times a year.

There are alphas and omegas who have irregular cycles. If you're one of them, please be especially vigilant and either always have a heat/rut partner ready, or have the number of a heat/rut agency on speed dial.

If you have not had a single cycle for a year or more, please consult your doctor that specializes in secondary gender cycles and schedule a general check-up.

--

Hour 7 to 9 (without a partner)

During this stage, you will find it difficult to speak coherently. You will also forget how most things work and what they're called.

You will feel hostile towards people with the same secondary gender as yourself, even if they're your family or friends!

You will also feel extreme affection for people with a different secondary gender than yourself, so for everyone's sake, it would be best to remove yourself from a public setting, return home, and isolate.

Without a partner to help you, you will feel an increased, almost frenzied need to mate, and you would have difficulty regaining a normal body temperature on your own.

Should a heat/rut partner arrive during this time, extra mating sessions (that preferably ends with one of you knotting the other) must be done in order to help you regain your verbal communication skills.

The duration of your current heat/rut cycle will see a 50-100% increase as well. For example, if you are an alpha with a regular 7 day cycle, then expect this cycle to last 11 to 14 days.

Hour 10 to 12 (without a partner)

You will have increased animal-like behaviors, as your body starts to overheat. You will have also totally forgotten how to speak. (There are cases where alphas and omegas retained enough coherency to speak 1 or 2 syllable sentences, but they are considered very rare.)

Should you reach this stage, you must be isolated so you will not hurt others. You will be very hostile to people with the same secondary gender as yourself, highly possessive of people with a different secondary gender than yourself, and irrational and violent if you think you're being forced to separate from who you think is your mate.

Healing from this stage can take months, and will require medical professionals and extended hospitalization.

One important note to make is that heat/rut agencies do not accept cases that have reached Hour 10. For the sake of their employees' safety, it is best to just call nearby hospitals that specialize in illnesses specific to certain secondary genders.

(redacted) Hospital is one such place, and we pride ourselves with the quality of our care, and the dedication and professionalism of our staff.

Hour 13 upwards (without a partner)

Your body has overworked itself, and as a result, you will either have lost most of your mental faculties, or died from overheating.

For people who have reached this stage and lived, long term (and sometimes even life-long) care is needed. There is only a very small percentage of people who recover from this stage, but for the sake of your loved ones, we will do our best to care for them, so they may one day recover and be able to enjoy life once more.

--

About Us

(redacted) Hospital provides qualified medical care to people of all secondary genders, and has a wing dedicated to the long term care needed by alpha and omega patients who have unfortunately reached Hour 10 and above without the help of a partner.

--

If you have any questions or concerns, contact us using the number listed below. Our friendly and very understanding customer service representatives will help you as best they can, and will also recommend nearby heat/rut agencies, should you (or someone you care for) have need of it.

(redacted)

#omegaverse #omegaverse lore #i wrote this for #dreamling #the sandman #but it can be used for other pairings in other fandoms #my writing

[avissapiens]

How to be a Bull Ch 7: Work

((FINALLY got to this one. Sorry yall.)) (Model is Elton Mota)

A prejudiced view might find it strange to see a Bull at such lofty heights in the corporate ladder. The uninitiated would see their size and assume that they have nothing to offer but eye-candy.

But our market research has shown that a large percentage of bulls actually thrive in high-achieving positions. Advertising, PR, R&D. Skilled professionals from doctors and lawyers to esteemed academics often get bit by the bull bug.

There is a clear set of transferable skills acquired when you spend your non-working hours totally gym obsessed. Discipline, Patience, Self-direction. Being able to work yourself, withstand the strain of constant progressive overload and always come back the next day ready for more.

Couple that with the bull lifestyle being more expensive than one would expect; with tons of protein, supplements and something’s extra. With specially tailored apparel because normal stores can’t contain your bulk any longer. With hyper-exclusive gym memberships and competition fee’s because that unending lust for growth requires constant improvement of facilities and community who shares your addiction.

The end result for the company is a driven, growth obsessed highly skilled worker who excels in handling large, well defined projects well ahead of the deadline because they know their muscle is at stake if they don’t.

*insert abyssal chanting*

Elton is the go-to guy for those big accounts at the Avis Athletics Agency. The look of absolute focus and fire in his eyes is sometimes frightening. Total dedication given to both sides of his life. They synthesize so naturally for him. It's like he puts every muscle and sinew into his work, and lets his work fuel every inch of growth. 

The gym at Agency HQ is state of the art, an obvious requirement given our team. But for Elton it basically functions as a secondary office space. On the phone talking with clients while he reps out a new PB on company time. He says his mind works best and is clearest when pumping iron. That pure euphoria of the mind-muscle connection truly boosting his performance through the roof. It’s such a potent addiction that when the gym was closed for maintenance for a month, the CFO offered to let Elton use his private suite just to keep his numbers high.

Company meetings with Elton are likewise a key to his productivity. The tight business attire straining around his form does end up distracting and reducing the overall work done by anyone else in the room, yes. But something about the attention drives our highest earning bull into a frenzy. Like his own personal audience. Intimately aware of how he outsizes every single man in the room. Going through the plan for an acquisition or a partnership deal that’ll PUMP PUMP PUMP the stock prices through the roof. Unconsciously flexing every time he gestures for a prop, veins visible beneath the sheer fabric of his dress shirt. Excitement palpable in the air as sweat trickles down that massive back, the fabric of his slacks starting to tighten even more. The rest of the boardroom doesn’t even need to speak. They know he’s got it.

In one wild 9-5 he gets the project that was slated to take 2 weeks on the CEO’s desk. Without a word he packed up and headed straight to the gym to unleash all that pent up energy. The CEO made a mental note to schedule more board meetings with Elton, and to make sure that his Holiday bonus was more than enough to ensure he came back from vacation 20lbs of pure muscle heavier 

To find resources to help embody your Bull Journey you can check out the Bull Archetype guide on my Patreon for free .If you’d like to support the creation of files like the one in this story, or you’d like access to exclusive files and files earlier than the rest of the world, then please, Support me on Patreon, And go and follow me on Youtube for more files. Also, be sure to join me and my community on Discord. 

#muscle bull #caption #how to

[missywritesfor7]

❤️‍🩹Lifeline | MYG❤️‍🩹

Synopsis: It’s long been controversial for idols to date, but idols dating each other can be really beautiful or a complete nightmare. When Yoongi's relationship with another idol is discovered, he decides maybe it’s time to break the taboo and show people it’s ok for idols to date. Instead, they find themselves caught in the midst of one media frenzy after another and struggle to keep their relationship as strong as it had been the past 2 years. Yoongi finds a self destructive way to cope, and it causes even more problems than it solves. As they fight for their relationship and their careers, they discover that sometimes, the only way to truly be free is to let go.

Pairing: idol!Yoongi x idol!OC

Warnings: nsfw, alcoholism, cheating, depression, anxiety, Yoongi goes through a bisexy ho phase, Yoongi is also in his alcoholic phase, post-military BTS

Previous chapter | Next chapter | Masterlist

Ch 18: New Attitude

Despite the legal battle with JJS and the amount of stress it’s been causing Hyeri, she finds herself truly excited to attend the premiere of her miniseries. Seeing her beloved cast mates is just the thing she needs to take her mind off of JJS and her ever growing loneliness.

Her new agency, Brickyard Entertainment, had a small crew go to her home to do her hair and make up, give her a snack as she didn’t want to eat a full meal before the premiere, and style her in the most stunning pink gown that sparkles as she moves. They even picked out special jewelry to match, though she was adamant that she wear her own necklace. The teardrop one Yoongi bought her on tour. She knows he’ll be watching the red carpet broadcast and she wants to make sure he knows she’s always thinking of him.

Yoongi will definitely be watching. He had a bouquet of flowers and a basket of her favorite snacks and skincare products delivered to her that morning. He sent her a string of excited text messages telling her how proud he is and how much he loves her. His love always gives her a positive boost.

The premiere is a media frenzy when Hyeri arrives. A lot of promo and anticipation had been building up so it’s no surprise to anyone. What Hyeri doesn’t quite realize at first is that a lot of that media frenzy is for her.

This is Hyeri’s first public appearance since the video of her yelling at her manager surfaced, and since her legal battle began. Everyone is dying to ask her lots of questions with only a small few of them having anything to do with the miniseries.

She poses for photos and waves at fans as she walks along the red carpet. She feels on top of the world to finally see fans after what’s felt like an eternity out of the public eye. There’s a line of reporters from different publications waiting to interview her when she approaches. One by one Hyeri meets with each one exchanging pleasantries and expressing excitement for the premiere. Some ask her what they can expect from the show. Others ask her about any upcoming projects she’s working on. Of course there are a few that ask her about doing more music. Then there’s one that wanted to focus on other things.

Yoongi tuned in to the red carpet broadcast of the premiere. His face lit up and his chest filled with joy the moment he saw Hyeri step out of the limo. She looks so gorgeous as always and so very happy. He can always tell when her smile is authentic, and what he’s seeing on the red carpet is her true happy self. His smile is beaming with pride.

Yoongi knows being on socials can only cause problems, but today he’s making an exception so he can see the photos and videos being posted from the red carpet. He tries to only stick to official media accounts, but he can’t help checking the trending tags too.

People are loving Hyeri’s dress and happy to see her. Photos are being shared along with videos of her interviews from the various media outlets she spoke with. He looks at every single thing. He swoons at how sweet her voice sounds when she talks. He smiles at how comfortable she is in front of the camera. He giggles like a schoolgirl when he notices her wearing the necklace he bought her. He can’t get enough of her.

After a bit he comes across a video that seems to be causing a lot of buzz. Hyeri is being interviewed by an online publication that Yoongi isn’t entirely familiar with though he’s seen the name a time or two. The interviewer starts by congratulating her on the premiere and asking what can be expected. The usual that she’s answered in every other video. She gives her response and smiles along with the interviewer who sounds very enthusiastic. Then without missing a beat, the interviewer asks Hyeri another question.

“Can you tell me more about why you were seen yelling at your former manager? Is it true you rejected roles they had for you because you thought you were too good for those roles?” The interviewer asks staring Hyeri down.

“W-what?” Hyeri asks taken aback by the unexpected question. “No.”

“JJS says they gave you plenty of roles but you were difficult to work with,” the interviewer continues. “Did your relationship with Kihyun cause you to care less about your career and demand only lead roles?”

“Huh?” Hyeri is confused and unsure what to say. She thought she was just having a simple red carpet interview like the others, but now she finds herself feeling attacked and unable to get more than a word out.

“Did you get into a car accident because the dating rumors weren’t helping your career the way you thought they would? Was that just another publicity stunt?”

“No!” She says offended, then takes a breath and softens her tone. “The dating rumors were lies confirmed by JJS without my approval. I can’t say much due to the case still being in progress, but the truth will come out in due time.”

“Well there’s been speculation that you’ve been romantically involved with a few people. You were photographed with Suga of BTS not long before JJS confirmed your relationship with Kihyun. Not to mention footage of you with a few other people over the past year. Is there a reason for that? Are you looking for someone successful enough to take care of you so you won’t have to work anymore?”

“What are you talking about?” She asks starting to get very uncomfortable and trying her hardest to hold back tears from this unprecedented attack.

“I don’t mean to offend,” he laughs. “It’s just the word that’s been going around. You were seen out with RM of BTS recently. Is that your next budding relationship? Would Suga be upset to find you’ve moved on to his band mate?”

“You know what,” Hyeri says fighting the wave of tears rising. “Thank you for coming. I hope everyone enjoys the series and shows it lots of love.” She waves to the camera then quickly turns and walks off.

That clip is getting hotter by the second. It’s trending all over socials and the discussion surrounding it is tense. Yoongi finishes the video and can only stare at his phone with his jaw clinched. He’s frozen in place unsure if he wants to set fires or run all the way to Seoul to hold Hyeri because he could clearly see how upset she was. He’s been on the receiving end of some of the worst questions, but he knows she’s not used to that type of sudden and public questioning meant to catch her off guard and make her look bad no matter what she says.

Since he’d been staying away from socials, he had no idea that rumors were going around about Hyeri and Namjoon. The two went out for lunch one day just to hang out and catch up. They actually do it regularly since Namjoon has known Hyeri longer than Yoongi has.

Hyeri went to school with Namjoon’s younger sister and met him through her. Namjoon saw her as another younger sister and made sure she was taken care of during her trainee years as if she were blood. He even scolded her for not telling him how bad things were with Starlight when she was in Two Piece. Just another instance of her staying silent as to try to avoid burdening others.

When Hyeri and Yoongi began dating Namjoon was happy for them. He knew he wouldn’t have to worry about her in the care of his hyung. However, he’s been checking in on her more lately since Yoongi had been on his downward spiral.

Namjoon and Hyeri had lunch together but apparently made the mistake of going somewhere in the city with more people likely to notice. They spent the lunch catching up, mostly talking about Yoongi and how his recovery is going. Namjoon is the older brother she’s always wanted so she talks to him about everything and always values his advice.

Their lunch wasn’t a secret or anything scandalous, but of course, someone with a camera decided to make it seem that way. They were only photographed leaving the restaurant and waving goodbye. Neither of them knew they were being photographed.

When Hyeri spoke to Yoongi that evening, she told him about her lunch with Namjoon. She passed along Namjoon’s words of support, and told Yoongi about the project he’s working on and an update on the rest of the guys.

Yoongi hasn’t talked to the guys very much other than an update or two, but he hasn’t talked with any of them about what they’re working on. Minho thought it would be best for him to keep from talking about work. It’s hard for him not to when talking to the members, the conversation just always finds its way to something work related. So his communication has been short and sweet and few with them. He misses them though, but he’s not quite ready to talk with them the way he’d been talking with Hyeri. They all understand and just can’t wait for him to get better.

Now that lunch Hyeri had with Namjoon to give and receive updates on everyone in their circle is being seen by the public as a possible romance. Not only did that reporter completely ambush Hyeri for no reason, he also brought Yoongi’s attention to a rumor that does him no good on his rehab journey. He’s pissed and once again finds himself far from where he really wants to be, by Hyeri’s side.

He taps out a text to Hyeri telling her she looks amazing and that if she’s not too tired he wants to video chat when she gets home. He knows she could go right to bed if she’s too tired, but he’s hoping tonight she doesn’t. As usual, he needs to see her to know she’s ok.

Seeing her isn’t what matters though, because he’ll worry about her regardless. He can never stop worrying about her. He just wants to take care of her. If it were up to him she wouldn’t need to work or go through any of the shit she deals with because he wants to be able to take care of her.

Hyeri doesn’t necessarily need Yoongi to take care of her. She appreciates everything he does, but she’s not helpless and at times she wishes he would believe that. She saw his message while in the car on her way home and she knows he’s either just really excited, or he saw that abysmal interview and wants to see proof that she’s ok. She hasn’t had much time for it to all sink in, but she’s not completely in distress or anything. However she knows Yoongi wouldn’t believe her if she only says she’s ok.

When she gets home she changes out of her dress and washes up. She grabs her phone and gets comfortable in bed in her usual position when she video chats with Yoongi. She gives herself one more look then gives him a call.

“Hey,” Yoongi answers quickly. “How did it go?” He asks wasting no time.

“It was fine,” she says. “It was really good to see everyone again after a while.”

“You looked perfect,” he smiles. “You always do.”

“Thanks, babe,” she blushes.

“No one gave you any problems today, did they?”

“No,” she chuckles. “At least nothing that I’m not already used to.”

“Like what?” He asks trying to give her the opportunity to bring it up first.

“You know the usual. People asking me questions that have nothing to do with the show.” She chuckles. “I’ve been out of the public eye for a while, it’s to be expected.”

“Really? So you expected to be asked about your recent dating history?”

“Rumored dating history,” she corrects him rolling her eyes. “Wait, what have you been watching? You’re supposed to be staying off of socials!”

“I was trying to see you!” He pouts.

“Yoongi,” she chuckles giving in. “Look, that guy was an asshole and maybe I didn’t expect him to ask me all of that bullshit he asked me, but it’s fine. I got over it. The premiere was great.”

She means that. She got over it. One thing she’s learned recently is that people are going to talk regardless and if she lets it get to her she could find herself taking another late night drive that results in a hospital stay.

Yoongi isn’t convinced, but that’s typical. He tries to get the best look at her as he can but it’s hard when she’s mostly in the darkness.

“Turn the light on,” Yoongi says.

“I’m not turning the light on, Yoongi,” she answers shaking her head. “You have to trust me. I told you I’m fine, I mean it. I didn’t even shed any tears.”

“I trust you, Superwoman,” he jokes. “But you like to tell me you’re ok when you’re really not. I just have to be sure.”

“I tell you I’m alright because I am alright. You just don’t believe me.”

“You just looked upset. I was worried.”

“I know, baby. You’re always worried, but you don’t need to be. It’s so…you just don’t need to worry.” What she really wants to tell him is that she’s not a helpless baby. But now isn’t the time for that.

“You mean it? I won’t find out you’ve been taking late night drives again, will I?”

“Yoongi please,” she sighs.

“I know. It’s hard being away from you. I feel like I need to be there for you and I’m not.”

“You are,” she presses. “You’ve always been. You are probably the most supportive person I’ve ever met in my life. I just want you to know that I can still take care of myself. You don’t have to try to play hero and solve all of my problems, I just want you to support me. My shoulder to lean on when I need, not a helicopter parent,” she jokes.

“Helicopter parent?” He asks offended. “That’s what you think I am?”

“No, that’s not what I meant,” she says realizing her poor choice of words. “I’m just saying you don’t have to worry about me so much because I can take care of myself.”

“Right,” he nods unconvinced. “You can take care of yourself?”

“Why are you questioning that?” She asks tilting her head.

“I’m not, I just….I know you try to be strong, but it’s ok to say when you have a hard time. I just want to be there for you.”

“If I’m having a hard time, I’ll let you know. I’ve told you that many times but you still never seem to believe me,” she huffs. This isn’t how she thought this conversation would go, but now she’s mildly annoyed.

“I do,” he defends. “I’m sorry that I love you so much that I want you to be happy.”

“Oh no no no no no,” she laughs in disbelief. “Don’t do that, Yoongi. Don’t…” she inhales sharply. “Don’t do that. Trying to interject yourself in every moment because you think I’m helpless is not the same as wanting me to be happy.”

“Trying to interject myself in every moment? Tell me what you’re really trying to say,” he huffs.

“Yoongi,” she snaps rolling her eyes again. “I’m not a baby. You don’t have to try coming to my rescue every time you see me frown. You’re making me feel like you see me as a child and I hate that! If I say I’m ok then I mean it! I can handle shit on my own too, you don’t have to be the one solving every problem.”

“Ok,” he huffs. “I get it, Hyeri. I’m sorry I’m too much for you. I‘ll back off since you don’t need me.”

“Yoongi!” She roars fed up. “I don’t know what your deal is tonight, but let me remind you that you cheated on me! Where the fuck were you when I was here unaware and hurting because you wouldn’t fucking talk to me? Now you’re having this pity party because I tell you I can take care of myself? Maybe you don’t believe me because you had no fucking idea how much I was taking care of myself before while you were too trashed out of your mind to remember a damn thing! Then you came home and continued to get trashed so I took care of both of us! Focus on yourself, babe, because I’m just fine!”

Yoongi is stunned silent at Hyeri’s words. Stunned so much it hurts. It hurts for many reasons in ways she’s never hurt him before.

“Look,” she softly says, instantly regretting her outburst. “It’s been a long day and I just need some sleep. I’ll talk to you tomorrow, ok?”

Yoongi silently nods and without another word he ends the call.

#bts #bts au #bts fanfic #bts fic #cross posted on ao3 #bts smut #angst #tw depression #bts fluff #tw alcoholism #bts angst #min Yoongi #Suga #yoongi x oc #Suga x oc #yoongi au #suga au #yoongi angst #suga angst #yoongi fluff #suga fluff #yoongi fanfic #suga fanfic #yoongi smut #suga smut #yoongi fic #suga fic #established relationship #idol au

[stereax]

#beat reporter stereax #jt compher #detroit red wings #free agency frenzy

[tomorrowusa]

Journalists covering a demonstration in Moscow by wives of Russian soldiers were arrested by Putin's police.

Some 20 journalists were detained by police in central Moscow on Saturday at a rally of Russian soldiers' wives calling for their men to be returned from the front in Ukraine. Independent Russian news outlet SOTA reported that 27 people were taken from the demonstration and transported to the nearest police station. Reuters news agency said one of its journalists was among those detained while filming women laying red carnations at the tomb of the unknown soldier in the shadow of the Kremlin's walls in central Moscow. Moscow police did not comment on the raid. "Journalists should be free to report the news without fear of harassment or harm, wherever they are. We are committed to covering world events in an independent, unbiased, and reliable way, in keeping with the Thomson Reuters Trust Principles," a Reuters spokesperson said in a statement. The demonstration was organized by a group called The Way Home, which urged "wives, mothers, sisters and children" of reservists from across Russia to come to Moscow to "demonstrate (their) unity." The Moscow prosecutor's office said Saturday that the rally had not been coordinated with the authorities. Authorities warned against calling for and participating in unauthorized demonstrations. For several weeks, wives of currently mobilized Russian men have been campaigning for their husbands' return from the front, as well as opposing further mobilization. 

In Russia, an "unauthorized demonstration" is one which does not support Putin and his fascist policies.

Speaking of fascists, Tucker Carlson is apparently in Moscow.

Tucker Carlson Being Spotted in Moscow Sparks Frenzied Speculation

The reported appearance of former Fox News host Tucker Carlson in the Russian capital has sparked intense speculation over the purpose of the conservative media personality's visit to Moscow. Carlson arrived in Moscow on February 1, and was spotted attending the Bolshoi Theater in the capital, according to Russian outlet, Mash. Questions quickly swirled over why the TV anchor would have traveled to Moscow, and whether he intended to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin during the visit.

A Tucker interview with dictator Vladimir Putin would probably be as incisive as his interview with Trump. 😝 Perhaps Putin will let him see the famous Trump pee tapes.

Maybe we'll get lucky and he'll decide to defect while in Russia. His views are much more in tune with a totalitarian state than with the United States.

#invasion of ukraine #russia #arrest of journalists #demonstration against the war in ukraine #repression #vladimir putin #totalitarian state #tucker carlson #putin interview #россия #жены солдат #мясные волны #демонстрация в москве #нет войне #арест журналистов #тоталитаризм #владимир путин #путин хуйло #путин – это лжедмитрий iv а не пётр великий #союз постсоветских клептократических ватников #путлер #такер карлсон #дональд трамп #путинский пудель #руки прочь от украины! #геть з україни #деокупація #україна переможе #слава україні! #героям слава!

[comphyjost]

matthew tkachuk to the panthers?!?!

#matthew tkachuk #calgary flames #florida panthers #free agency frenzy

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

I'm on tour with my new, nationally bestselling novel The Bezzle! Catch me in TUCSON (Mar 9-10), then SAN FRANCISCO (Mar 13), Anaheim, and more!

#15yrsago Middle schooler wins C-SPAN prize for doc about NSA spying https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2014/03/middle-schoolers-win-c-span-prizes-nsa-documentaries

#10yrsago Chocolate cookie milk shots: milk tumblers made from chocolate chip cookies https://www.eater.com/2014/3/5/6269103/dominique-ansel-to-debut-milk-cookie-shots-at-sxsw

#10yrsago Make taser-proof clothing with carbon-fiber linings https://hackaday.io/project/196-homamade-carbon-tape-taser-proof-clothing

#10yrsago Why does Hollywood like dystopian LAs and utopian SFs? https://boomcalifornia.org/2014/02/27/postcards-from-the-future/

#10yrsago Why DRM’ed coffee-pods may be just the awful stupidity we need https://memex.craphound.com/2014/03/06/why-drmed-coffee-pods-may-be-just-the-awful-stupidity-we-need/

#10yrsago Complaint: WIPO director illegally collected staff DNA in order to out whistleblower https://unwatch.org/un-whistleblower-head-world-intellectual-property-agency-stole-employees-dna-samples/

#10yrsago US Embassy and Godaddy conspire to censor dissenting Mexican political site https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2014/03/mexican-protest-site-censored-godaddy-us-embassys-help

#10yrsago Harry Reid on the Koch Brothers’ agenda https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2-cIpXIoY4

#10yrsago Rob Ford’s pitiable moment on Jimmy Kimmel https://www.joeydevilla.com/2014/03/04/rob-fords-red-faced-interview-on-jimmy-kimmel-live/

#10yrsago Video explainer: why open spectrum matters, and why you’re about to lose it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhVx-kH7RAQ

#10yrsago Feds drop link-related charges against Barrett Brownhttps://www.techdirt.com/2014/03/05/barrett-brown-tells-court-that-sharing-link-is-not-crime/ https://www.techdirt.com/2014/03/05/barrett-brown-tells-court-that-sharing-link-is-not-crime/

#5yrsago Ruminations on decades spent writing stories that run more than 1,000,000 words https://www.antipope.org/charlie/blog-static/2019/03/lessons-learned-writing-really.html

#5yrsago A thorough defense of Modern Monetary Theory https://www.forbes.com/sites/johntharvey/2019/03/05/mmt-sense-or-nonsense/

#5yrsago A brilliant, simple exercise to teach privacy fundamentals https://twitter.com/Klonick/status/1102970732890316801

#5yrsago GOP lawmaker driven mad by bill that would decriminalize children who take naked photos of themselves, delivers a frenzied rant about anal sex on legislature’s floor https://www.thestranger.com/news/2019/03/05/39511377/a-bill-decriminalizing-teen-sexting-passes-the-house-causing-republican-to-scream-about-anal-sex-on-the-floor

#5yrsago Bounty hunters and stalkers are able to track you in realtime by lying to your phone company and pretending to be cops https://www.vice.com/en/article/panvkz/stalkers-debt-collectors-bounty-hunters-impersonate-cops-phone-location-data

#5yrsago From prisons to factories to offices: the spread of workplace surveillance and monitoring tech https://datasociety.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DandS_WorkplaceMonitoringandSurveillance-.pdf

#5yrsago NH GOP lawmakers mocked gun violence survivors by wearing clutchable pearl necklaces to gun control hearing https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2019/03/06/gop-lawmakers-wore-pearls-while-gun-violence-victims-testified-activists-were-outraged/

#5yrsago Omniverse CEO rejects piracy accusations, claims that he has a legit, “mind-blowing” 100-year license to stream TV on the internet https://www.lightreading.com/video-broadcast/omniverse-ceo-i-m-doing-everything-literally-by-the-book-

#1yrago Biden set to appoint mass foreclosure cheerleader to the Fed https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/06/personnel-are-policy/#janice-eberly

Name your price for 18 of my DRM-free ebooks and support the Electronic Frontier Foundation with the Humble Cory Doctorow Bundle.

#pluralistic

[mariacallous]

The prospect that US residents may soon be able to invest in bitcoin through their brokerage, as if it were a regular stock, has prompted a fresh round of hype in crypto circles—and a surge in crypto prices.

Several investment firms, including heavy-hitters like BlackRock and Fidelity, are queuing up to launch a spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the US. These funds would track the price of bitcoin, making them the closest thing to investing in the crypto token directly without dealing with a crypto exchange or storing crypto manually, a process fraught with risk.

After a bruising 18 months in which crypto prices buckled, high-profile businesses collapsed, and two crypto figureheads were convicted of crimes in the US, the crypto industry is supposed to be cleaning up its act. That the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) appears to be entertaining a spot bitcoin ETF after years of resistance is seen by some as a signal that crypto is moving beyond its free-wheeling years.

The arrival of such a fund in the US—by far the world’s largest ETF market—“is a significant milestone,” says Samson Mow, a prominent bitcoin evangelist and CEO of bitcoin-centric technology firm JAN3, as it will allow investors to hold bitcoin through a conventional financial product for the first time.

While there is broad consensus around the likelihood of an ETF approval among analysts, the idea that it would be symbolic of the industry’s coming of age is contradicted by the frenzy of speculation around what will happen to the price of bitcoin.

On X, crypto influencers with hundreds of thousands of followers are predicting an ETF will send the price of bitcoin soaring, in posts peppered with the rocket ship emoji. The arrival of a spot bitcoin ETF, claims Mow, will unlock a wave of pent-up demand and lead a “torrent of capital” to “pour into bitcoin.” Institutions and other investors that either cannot or choose not to invest in unregulated financial products will seize the opportunity to invest, he says, driving the price far beyond its previous heights.

An ETF might point to a growing acceptance of bitcoin among legacy financial institutions, but the implications for the price of bitcoin are being both mis- and overstated, ETF analysts warn, and the boosterism on display shows that little about crypto has changed.

Twelve applications for spot bitcoin ETFs are awaiting approval from the SEC. Delays are commonplace, but the agency is due to make a call on some of the applications as early as January 1, 2024. The three ETF analysts who spoke to WIRED expect the SEC to green-light a spot bitcoin ETF at some point next year.

In Canada, Germany, and elsewhere, spot bitcoin ETFs already exist. And US investors have had access to bitcoin futures ETFs, the value of which are correlated with the price of bitcoin, since 2021. The approval of a spot bitcoin ETF in the US is significant because it would, for the first time, give US investors access to a close proxy to bitcoin in a familiar and regulated format.

The attention paid to the topic by crypto trade media emphasizes the current fixation in industry circles. Since this summer, when speculation about the arrival of a spot bitcoin ETF began to ratchet up, crypto news site CoinDesk has published dozens of articles and videos on the topic.

In that same period, crypto markets have experienced dramatic swings, and the price of bitcoin has risen by almost a third. In some cases, price swings have been triggered by rumor and misreporting. On October 16, crypto outlet CoinTelegraph issued a retraction and apology after putting out an erroneous post on X announcing the approval of the first spot bitcoin ETF in the US, based on a screenshot posted by an X user, which led to a buying spree that increased the price of bitcoin by 10 percent.

On November 13, a falsified ETF filing relating to a separate cryptocurrency, XRP, caused a 13 percent rise in the token’s price. By the end of the day, those gains had evaporated. The Financial Times calculated that “imaginary bitcoin ETFs” were already worth 30 times the actual spot bitcoin ETFs already in existence worldwide.

Some ETF analysts, like Aniket Ullal of investment research firm CFRA, share the belief that the arrival of an ETF is likely to increase demand for bitcoin as an investment asset. But the effect on price will not be a “short-term spike,” Ullal says, but rather stretch out over multiple years.

Others say it will have the polar opposite effect to that predicted by figures like Mow, and that the price of bitcoin could plummet as investors attracted by the hubbub quickly cash out their winnings. “The idea that there is a huge pile of demand that will somehow materialize is just not true,” argues Peter Schiff, economist and CEO at asset management firm Euro Pacific. “It’s more of a ‘buy the rumor, sell the fact’ situation.”

The “narrative” that an ETF is a “catalyst for growing demand” has attracted speculators, says Bryan Armour, director of passive research strategies for North America at investment research firm Morningstar. “Hype has always been one of the core tenets of bitcoin. It seems like hype is at an all-time high.”

Figures from research firm Fineqia suggest the volume of crypto trading activity has surged in response to speculation over the approval of a spot bitcoin ETF and its market impact. In mid-November, daily trading volume on crypto exchanges reached $31.4 billion, the highest level in more than six months.

“There’s always the possibility that people are hyping it up for their own benefit,” says Mow, who adds that he doesn’t believe the broader crypto industry—which he considers to be separate from bitcoin and describes as a “grift”—is capable of cleaning up its act. “The crypto industry will keep churning out FTXs and people will keep investing because it’s a spectacle,” he says.

But whether or not bitcoin is different—a mature asset whose legitimacy would be “cemented,” as Mow claims, by an ETF approval—the relentless speculation surrounding it will expose investors to risk. “It is wildly volatile and should be handled carefully,” says Armour. But, he adds, people “hear the siren song and buy in.”

[paigedarling0506]

Ephemeral: Chapter 05

Village Entrance ❁

*.☽.*

This is insane.

If there was one thing that I had never imagined to happen to me, it would be this. Walking casually with a celebrity.

The first few minutes of the hike were quiet. I was normally shy around people and being with someone as famous as him was a whole new level.

I made sure to avoid any eye contact. I had to be careful that I wouldn't be gawking at him and trip myself along the way because that would be the next level of embarrassment as well. 

"How did you know this place?" I heard him ask, breaking the ice.

"My mom used to take me and my sister here when we were younger," I replied without looking at him and concentrating on my steps instead.

"Before you moved to Australia right?"

I nodded, amazed by the thought that he still remembered.

"You remembered?" I couldn't help but ask. "That I'm from Australia, I mean."

"Yeah." He replied briefly. "I remember what I want to remember I guess." He went on, ending his remark with a small smile.

Wow, he certainly knows how to carry conversations like this. I, on the other hand, could only turn away to hide the amusement in my face. 

"This place used to be famous, a lot of people went here," I told him, trying to get over his previous remark. "I remembered greeting a lot of hikers along the way. It was what we considered an ultimate healing place..." I trailed off feeling nostalgic and a little bit sad about what the place had become. "It's way too different now."

"Too bad, I wasn't able to see how it was before." He replied.  

"Yeah...but how about you?" I asked causing him to glance at me. "I mean, I don't understand what you're doing in this town. And of all places, the old hiking place."

"Well, a friend of mine used to live here." He answered briefly. "Before I got scouted by my agency a few years ago, we used to come up here a lot. But it wasn't so famous anymore when I first got here."

"So does your friend still live here?"

"Not anymore. He moved to the US. He works there now."

"And you still come here because?"

I heard him take a deep breath and I kind of got the feeling that I must be going overboard. 

"I hope I am not prying too much." I got worried. "You don't have to answer that question if you don't want to," I told him defensively. 

He chuckled, his eyes lingered on mine for a second. 

"Can I ask you a favor...Haewon?" He trailed off.

It still feels weird hearing him mention my name.

"If you don't mind, of course." 

"What is it?" 

"Well, it's uhm..." He made sure to meet my eyes before he hesitantly smiled at me. "Will you please relax around me?" He said. 

"Hah, that's not an easy one," I answered briefly. 

"Ah, is it too much to ask?"

I sensed how much effort he was exerting to be friendly and make the situation comfortable between us so I smiled at him.

"I'll try my very best," I told him and I got a wide smile plastered on his face as a reply. "I'll try to forget that your popularity is out of this world..." I went on, unable to stop myself from smiling more.

He nodded as he let out a small laugh at what I just said. 

"Out of this world? I'm afraid that's a bit of exaggeration..."

"You know it's not." I insisted, feeling a bit comfortable now.

We both chuckled as we made eye contact. 

"I still come here because it's peaceful here." He stated, answering my previous question. "Away from the prying eyes of the public. I mean, I love what I do...it's just that you know, you gotta breathe and stay from all the frenzy from time to time. So, I always make sure to find my way up here when I am free. To keep my sanity in check." 

"You must be very busy," I commented. 

"Busy is a good thing for my profession." He replied. 

I just threw him an unsure look since I didn't quite know how to respond to his last statement. 

*.☽.*

We continued to hike until we reached the top spot. The sun would be setting soon and the sky was getting ready for it. Pink, orange, and yellow colors filled most parts of the sky turning it into a marvelous canvas. 

It was indeed a perfect sunset afternoon. 

"It's beautiful up here." I couldn't help but admire the view. 

I inhaled the fresh air with my eyes closed, making sure I get the most out of this moment. I concentrated on the sound being offered by my surroundings. The wind, the rustling of the leaves of the trees, and the birds. The kind of solace I only get to experience up here.

I didn't hear any response from him which made me wonder. I opened my eyes and looked in his direction only to find out that he was already looking at me.

I suddenly got so conscious. I knew I needed to say something before my face turns into a strawberry again. 

"Do I still have something on my face?" I asked, hesitantly lifting my hand to wipe my face.

He laughed briefly as he shook his head sideways.

"You're right." He nodded. "It's beautiful." He paused, his lips stretching into a small upward curve. "Very beautiful." He added, his eyes on me before he turned his attention to the sky stretched in front of us. 

If he were just any ordinary man, I'd think that he was asking me to read between the lines. However, he wasn't. It felt wrong for me to even think about anything. 

I watched him as he removed his cap, spread his hands sideways, and took a deep breath with his eyes closed. 

"I like this." He muttered. "I wish I could take this home with me."

"It won't fit in your car, you know," I replied smiling. 

He must have been surprised by my attempt to be funny. He opened his eyes and immediately turned to me. 

"That's a really good way to spoil this moment, you know." He sighed dramatically. "Why do you have to do that?"

He pouted as if trying to look hurt as he exhaled sharply.

I knew he was pretending because it looked fake. I couldn't help but burst into laughter. Now, I got to experience his humor firsthand.

"You're so funny," I said as I continued laughing at him.

He looked so cute even now as his eyebrows furrowed. 

"Yeah, I've been told many times." He replied proudly with a wide smile on his face. "I'm glad I was able to make you laugh." He added as he wore his cap again. 

I was aware that he had his eyes on me while I tried to stop laughing.

"This makes me want to make you laugh more." He said, his voice just above a whisper.

"What?" I asked, unsure of what I heard. 

"Nothing." He replied with a chuckle. 

He stretched his hand between us. I didn't take it, I threw him a puzzled look instead. 

"Byun Baekhyun." He introduced. 

I smiled as I realized what was he trying to do. 

"I already know your name." I told him emphasizing the word 'already'.

He didn't answer and just kept his extended hand between us. He waited for me to take it. 

"Park Haewon," I said finally taking his offered hand with mine. 

"I already know your name." He said trying to copy how I said it earlier, giving my hand a gentle squeeze. 

We both chuckled as we let go of each other's hands. 

"How often do you go up here?"

The question came from him. 

"Not regularly," I answered. "Only when I feel like it."

"I came back here two weeks ago." He told me casually. "I thought I'd see you again."

I didn't know why but something tugged behind my chest upon hearing his words. Though I wasn't sure if he was being serious. However, I was amazed by how straightforward he was. 

"But you weren't here that time." He added before turning to the beautiful sunset. "So, I thought I'd never see you again..."

He got me speechless and it took every ounce of energy I have to force myself to reply. 

"Why?" It was all I could muster. 

His eyes found their way to meet mine again but he didn't say anything for a moment. 

"Well...that's -" He finally uttered but I decided to cut him mid-sentence.

"Are you going to sue me?!" I blurted out. 

"What?" He sounded so shocked, an amused expression painted all over his face. 

"Gosh, how could I be so slow? Of course, you wanted to see me because of that-" I stopped when I saw him burst to laugh beside me.

"You're..." He paused as he continued to laugh, his hands on his stomach. "You're funny too."

I wasn't being funny so I don't quite understand why he was laughing this hard. 

When he noticed that I looked like a confused statue next to him, he straightened his posture and stopped laughing. 

"How could you think that I wanted to see you just to sue you?" He asked trying to stifle a smile. 

"Well, given the circumstances last time. You had all the right to sue me. I mean you almost fell because of me and your hand, damn- your hand, I felt so guilty when I saw you playing the piano-"

"I just want to see you." He interrupted. "I just wanted to see you again so I drove all there straight from recording two weeks ago."

"Why would you want to see me again?" I asked absentmindedly. 

He shrugged and just smiled at me.

Wow, that was vague. I thought. He just gave me a new subject to overthink. 

Though, if I would be honest with him right now, I'd tell him how I went up here the very next day expecting to see him again. But then it would be awkward for me to reveal that information to him right now. 

"My teenage cousin likes you very much by the way." I blurted out of nowhere. "Like really really like you."

"Ah really?" He asked smiling so hard, his eyes turned into crescents.

He must have been pleased by what he heard. 

"I can see your cousin has very good taste." He added as he straightened his posture and raised his chin. 

I couldn't help but laugh at his sudden confidence.

"Yes," I uttered. "You got her jumping and shouting one time when you guested on a show."

He laughed.

"Did you watch too?"

"Huh?"

I was caught off guard. 

"Did you watch me too?"

"Well..." I trailed off, hesitant. "That was the first time I saw and recognized who you were, so yes, I watched you too."

He smiled as he tilted his head down.

"So, do you like me?"

I heard him ask and my eyes couldn't help but grow wide while I almost choked at his question. 

"I mean, as a singer, you know my songs and stuff. What I do." He explained with a lopsided smile. 

"Ah.." I muttered, realizing what he meant. "Well..." I trailed off.

I took my phone out and showed him my playlist.

I saw a big smile spreading on his face when he found out that most of his songs were saved on my playlist. 

"Congratulations! You got yourself a new fan mister." I told him using my perfect Australian accent. 

"Really?" 

I nodded in response. 

"Well, in that case..." He trailed off.

He typed something on my phone before something inside his jeans pocket rang which I guessed was his phone. My forehead creased waiting for him to explain what he had just done. 

"As my new fan, I'm rewarding you with my precious number."

"What?!" I almost laughed at what he said. 

"You're welcome." He said as he handed the phone back to me. 

"Are you serious?" 

He nodded.

"Dead serious."

"Aren't you scared I might be a criminal? Or a crazy person?" I asked him, unbelievably. "I could sell your number and make money out of it, you know," I told him in a matter-of-factly tone. 

"Will you do that?" He suddenly sounded and looked so serious. 

"No, of course, I was just joking," I replied immediately, intimated by how he looked at me. 

He smiled.

"You're too pretty to be a criminal, you should know that." 

I didn't know why I smiled after hearing it from him. It was as if it came out naturally like it was the best thing I should do and I wasn't able to stop it. 

"Especially when you smile like that." He added.

"You should stop saying things like that to me or my face will turn into a strawberry any moment from now." I blurted out. 

"Well then, I guess you haven't found out what my favorite fruit is yet." He replied grinning, looking a little too happy.  

I would be lying if I said I was not beginning to grow fond of his smile. 

"Do you usually give out your number this easily?" I asked, desperate to distract myself. 

He let out a small laugh as he shook his head. 

"So, why did you just give it to me like that?"

"Hm, I wonder why." He shrugged before he proceeded to shove his hands inside his pockets.

*.☽.*

We both witnessed the lights of the houses from the small community turn on and we both admired its beauty. 

"I live in one of those houses," I said pointing to it.

"Will I be able to figure out which one?" He asked sounding serious. 

"The one with the lights on?" I replied smiling.

He knew I was teasing him so he tilted his head down for a moment probably to hide his amusement.

After a few minutes of small talk, we decided to descend. He also received a phone call which I was guessing would be from his manager asking his whereabouts. 

*.☽.*

He was standing and holding the door of the passenger's seat. 

"Just the entrance of the village, okay?" I reminded him as I sat in the passenger's seat of his car. 

He chuckled before closing the door. I watched him walk and enter the driver's seat. 

For a second, I was distracted by how good his car smelled. It has a clean, masculine fragrance which I must note suited him. I would have indulged in it more if not for him occupying the driver's seat. 

I must have gone crazy for a moment as I thought that I had never seen a guy this good-looking while fastening his seat belt on. 

"And no getting off the car," I blurted out, wanting to conceal my admiration.

"Yes Ma'am," He smirked. "I remembered everything perfectly." He told me with a glance, while he revved the engine on. "I am aware of what I must exactly do if I wanna do this again."

Seriously, what I am doing inside Jihye's Ultimate Idol's car? She would kill me if she knew.

And did he just say he wants to do it again?

*.☽.*

As agreed, he stopped the car when we were about to enter the entrance of the town. 

"I just want to tell you that you don't have to worry about this. I won't tell anyone about you." I said out of nowhere since it felt like I had to assure him about the matter. "Not even my cousin who is crazy about you."

"I know." He replied briefly, seemingly a hundred percent convinced. "I appreciate it. Thanks."

"Thanks for helping me too," I said as I unfastened the seatbelt. "I couldn't imagine how sore my legs would be if you weren't there."

"Don't forget to have your bike fixed then."

"My Uncle's the best mechanic in town, don't worry." I boasted. 

"Wow thanks for the TMI." He teased before he grinned, "Congratulations!" 

I just laughed at his remark before getting out of his car and I walked to the compartment to get my bike. 

"Are you sure you don't need any help with your bike? That's heavy." I heard him asking inside the car.

"I'm okay, I'm a strong woman, you know!" I replied a little louder making sure he'd hear me. 

He laughed aloud. 

"If you're strong, shouldn't you be scared of bugs?" He replied trying to copy my accent. 

I momentarily closed my eyes as I chuckled.

"That's not fair! That's a totally different story!" I rebutted as I finally unmounted the bike from the compartment. 

He was right, the bike was heavy and my hands hurt after the whole process. I'm thankful he didn't see how awkward I looked during the process. 

I tagged my bike along with me as I walked and stopped next to the driver's seat where he had the windows rolled down. 

"Have a good night..." I paused for a while debating if I should call him by his first name but he seemed to be waiting for it. "Baekhyun."

"Will I see you again?" He asked frankly and out of nowhere. 

"Maybe?" I answered.  

"Maybe is enough." He smiled. 

"Good night Hae Won." He bid, leaving me with his beautiful smile, before driving away.

I watched his car fade away from my sight. 

"Good night Byun Baekhyun." I muttered before I turned around and started to go my own way.  *.☽.*

#baekhyun #baekhyun fic #bbh #exo #kpop imagines #writing #writing fanfic #byun baekhyun #baekhyunxoc #baekhyun fluff #ephemeral baekhyun #ephemeral #fanfiction #fanfic #baekhyun fanfic #exo fanfiction

[insidethestardc]

3 UDFAs that could make the team in 2023 -- Cowboys roster outlook Most of the focus on draft weekend is on the players drafted during the seven-round selection process, as it should be. The frenzy that happens toward the end of the draft and shortly thereafter is a... #DallasCowboys