Under the Wings of the Black Eagle

One Canadian doctor is urging the international stars in Sunday's World Cup final to wear medical masks. That's to protect themselves against the "toxic soup" of wildfire smoke that covers much of the US Midwest to the Northeast right now. Tiny particles of pollution can travel deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, damaging the organs. Scientists say exposure can trigger asthma attacks and worsen heart and respiratory conditions. Concerns about the hazardous air quality are not limited to players on the pitch. There are thousands of fans arriving from around the world, and there is also the wider public to think about, especially the vulnerable. US President Donald Trump blames Canada for the smog - and has threatened new tariffs - although the blazes are also burning in parts of the US. DW's Ben Fajzullin speaks to Courtney Howard. 0:00 Wildfire smoke endangers World Cup final 1:30 Dr Courtney Howard on the dangers of breathing in hazardous air 3:30 The "toxic soup" of wildfire smoke 4:00 Public health advice for dealing with smoke-filled air 6:00 Air pollution's effect on athletes 7:40 Should events be called off due to wildfire smoke? 8:45 Can you wear a mask and still perform as an athlete? 10:00 Should the World Cup final be cancelled? 11:45 The smoke is so thick, it's like smoking cigarettes all day 12:00 Are wildfires taken seriously as a health risk? 14:00 Are we prepared for a future filled with smoky skies?

For weeks, Matthew Clairmont and his friend Nathaniel Wilson have been looking forward to a relaxing evening at their favourite pub. But amid the beer, laughter and cosy hustle and bustle, Matthew suddenly recognises a man who turns out to be a former fellow student. An unexpected encounter that changes the course of the evening in a surprising way ...

As always - only on AO3 :)