#Cloud Engineers & Architects

[faaun]

whenever i think/talk abt a "you" it's at least 5 different people usually

[sswdigital]

Cloud Engineers & Architects:

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, businesses are increasingly migrating to the cloud for scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency. Central to this transformation are cloud engineers  and cloud architects, who play crucial roles in designing, building, and managing cloud-based systems and services. Understanding the responsibilities, skills, and impact of these professionals can help organizations leverage the full potential of the cloud.

for more detail visit:

[selviiii]

why working harder on your content cloud actually be hurting your growth

[prototechsolutionsblog]

How Cloud-Based CAD Drafting Enhances Team Collaboration Across Geographies

The digital transformation of industries has opened new doors for professionals, particularly in design, engineering, and architecture, to collaborate more efficiently. Cloud-based CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drafting tools are at the heart of this transformation, enabling remote collaboration and reshaping how teams approach complex design tasks. This shift offers numerous advantages, from real-time collaboration to cost savings. Let’s explore the key benefits of using cloud-based CAD drafting for remote collaboration.

1. Real-Time Collaboration Across Geographies

One of the most significant advantages of cloud-based CAD platforms is the ability for teams to work together in real time, no matter where they are located. Traditionally, team members had to be in the same office or rely on cumbersome file-sharing methods that caused versioning issues and delays.

With cloud-based solutions, changes made to a design are updated instantly, and team members can see these adjustments in real-time. This eliminates the confusion of working with outdated files and ensures that everyone is on the same page, streamlining the design process. For example, in architecture or civil engineering projects where multiple stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, and contractors, are involved, real-time collaboration ensures quick feedback and decision-making.

2. Increased Accessibility and Flexibility

Cloud-based CAD platforms are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility is essential in today’s globalized workforce, where many professionals work remotely or from multiple locations. Cloud CAD tools allow designers, engineers, and drafters to access their work whether they are at home, in the office, or on-site with a client.

This level of accessibility also means that last-minute changes can be made on the go. For example, if a designer is on-site with a client and needs to modify a design based on the client’s feedback, they can quickly make the necessary changes and save them directly to the cloud. This flexibility allows for faster response times, increased productivity, and greater client satisfaction.

3. Streamlined Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication is critical in any project, and cloud-based CAD platforms enhance it by providing integrated communication tools within the platform. These tools allow team members to discuss designs, leave comments, share feedback, and make annotations directly on the project files.

This communication is more efficient than relying on emails or external messaging apps, where feedback can easily get lost or misunderstood. By keeping all communication within the platform, stakeholders can easily track changes, review comments, and resolve issues quickly, reducing the potential for costly errors and project delays.

4. Reduced Software and Hardware Costs

Traditional CAD systems often require powerful hardware with significant storage and computing capacity, which can be costly for companies, especially smaller firms. Additionally, traditional CAD software often comes with hefty licensing fees and requires regular updates, further increasing the cost.

Cloud-based CAD platforms reduce these costs by offloading the heavy processing and storage requirements to the cloud. As a result, users can work from virtually any device, whether it’s a high-powered workstation or a more modest laptop. Furthermore, cloud-based CAD platforms are often subscription-based, allowing companies to pay for only the features and usage they need, rather than making a large upfront investment in software.

5. Automatic Version Control and Data Management

One of the most common challenges in traditional CAD environments is version control. When multiple users work on the same project, it can be difficult to track which version of the file is the most current, leading to confusion and potential rework.

Cloud-based CAD platforms solve this issue by automatically saving changes and keeping a detailed version history. This means that team members can always access the latest version of the design, and in the event of an error, they can easily revert to a previous version. Furthermore, cloud platforms often include robust data management tools that allow users to organize and categorize files, making it easier to manage large projects with multiple design iterations.

6. Enhanced Security and Data Backup

Data security is a top concern for companies, particularly when working with sensitive design files. Cloud-based CAD platforms typically offer advanced security features, such as encryption and multi-factor authentication, to protect valuable data from unauthorized access.

Additionally, cloud platforms provide automatic backups, ensuring that design files are never lost due to hardware failure or accidental deletion. In a traditional CAD environment, losing project files due to a computer crash can result in hours or even days of lost work. With cloud-based solutions, this risk is mitigated, and data is stored securely in redundant, geographically distributed servers, ensuring business continuity.

7. Seamless Integration with Other Tools and Software

Many cloud-based CAD platforms are designed to integrate seamlessly with other tools and software commonly used in design and engineering workflows. This integration allows teams to streamline their processes by using CAD data in conjunction with other project management, BIM (Building Information Modeling), or CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) tools.

For instance, architectural firms using BIM software can easily import CAD designs into their models, ensuring that the entire project workflow, from concept to construction, is fully integrated and cohesive. Similarly, CAD designs can be used in CAM software for prototyping and manufacturing, creating a smooth transition from design to production.

8. Improved Project Tracking and Accountability

Cloud-based CAD platforms often include tools that allow managers to track the progress of a project in real-time. These tools can provide insights into who is working on which part of the design, how long certain tasks are taking, and whether the project is on schedule. This level of transparency ensures that everyone is held accountable for their contributions and can help identify potential bottlenecks early.

By having a clear view of the project’s progress, managers can make informed decisions about resource allocation, timelines, and potential adjustments, ultimately leading to more successful project outcomes.

9. Collaboration with Clients and External Stakeholders

Cloud-based CAD platforms make it easier to collaborate with clients and other external stakeholders, such as contractors or consultants. Clients can be given controlled access to view the design files, leave comments, and provide feedback, all within the platform. This level of involvement can increase client satisfaction and help ensure that the final design meets their expectations.

Additionally, by allowing external stakeholders to access the design files in real-time, issues can be identified and resolved more quickly, reducing the likelihood of costly changes later in the project.

10. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

Cloud-based CAD platforms contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing the need for physical resources and minimizing the environmental impact of large-scale infrastructure, such as powerful workstations. Because cloud-based solutions can be run on lower-powered devices and require less energy, companies can reduce their carbon footprint.

Additionally, cloud-based platforms often promote more efficient workflows, reducing the need for physical prototypes and rework, which can lead to a reduction in material waste.

Conclusion

Cloud-based CAD drafting offers numerous benefits for remote collaboration, from real-time teamwork to cost savings and increased flexibility. As the demand for remote work continues to rise, these platforms are becoming essential for organizations seeking to enhance productivity, streamline communication, and stay competitive in the ever-evolving world of design and engineering. By adopting cloud-based CAD tools, companies can future-proof their operations and ensure that their teams can collaborate effectively, regardless of location.

[ssw12]

Meet Your Next Cloud Solution Experts at CLEO: Engineers & Architects Who Redefine Innovation

In the rapidly evolving world of cloud technology, having the right expertise is crucial for leveraging cloud solutions effectively. At CLEO, our team of skilled cloud engineers and architects are at the forefront of designing and deploying innovative cloud solutions that drive business success. Discover how our experts can transform your cloud strategy.

Our Expertise

Our team at CLEO comprises highly skilled cloud engineers and architects with extensive experience across various industries. With certifications in major cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, our professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of successful cloud deployments.

What Our Cloud Engineers & Architects Do

Cloud Design and Implementation: Our architects design robust cloud infrastructures that are scalable, secure, and optimized for performance. They ensure that the architecture aligns with business objectives, providing a solid foundation for growth and innovation.

Migration Services: Transitioning to the cloud can be complex. Our engineers specialize in seamless migration of existing systems and data to the cloud, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuity of operations.

Custom Solutions Development: From developing new applications to optimizing existing ones for the cloud, our team tailors solutions to meet specific business needs, enhancing functionality and user experience.

Security and Compliance: Security is paramount in the cloud. Our experts implement comprehensive security measures, ensuring your cloud environments comply with relevant regulations and industry standards.

Why Choose CLEO?

Innovative Approach: We stay ahead of technology trends and continuously adopt new strategies to provide the most advanced solutions.

Customized Service: Understanding that each business has unique needs, we offer customized solutions that address specific challenges and goals.

Proactive Support: Our team provides ongoing support and proactive monitoring, ensuring your cloud systems operate smoothly and efficiently.

Case Studies

We have empowered numerous businesses to achieve their cloud computing goals. Our case studies illustrate how we've helped companies optimize their IT infrastructure, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency through tailored cloud solutions.

With cloud technology becoming a critical aspect of business strategy, partnering with CLEO's cloud engineers and architects means placing your trust in experts who can deliver top-tier, customized cloud solutions. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the cloud and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Are you ready to elevate your cloud strategy? Contact CLEO today to consult with our cloud experts and explore how our customized solutions can benefit your business.

[sageglobalresponse]

Top 10 highest paying jobs in the world 2024

Here is a list of the top 10 highest-paying jobs around the globe

The pursuit of lucrative careers often drives professional aspirations. With technological advancements and globalization reshaping industries, some professions command exceptional salaries that reflect their critical importance and specialized skill sets.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking a career shift or a recent graduate planning your future, understanding which roles offer the highest financial rewards can guide your career decisions.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 highest-paying jobs around the globe, per report from Nexford.

1. Cardiologist

Role: Specializes in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; medical school; residency in internal medicine; board certification in cardiology.

Average Salary: $324,760

2. Surgeon

Role: Performs surgical procedures to treat diseases and conditions.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; medical school; residency; medical license; board certification.

Average Salary: $297,851

3. Psychiatrist

Role: Specializes in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses and emotional disorders.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; medical school; residency in psychiatry; medical license; board certification.

Average Salary: $255,812

4. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Role: Oversees company operations, makes major corporate decisions, and communicates with the board of directors.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in business or related field; advanced degrees like an MBA; extensive experience in leadership and strategic planning.

Average Salary: $197,747

5. Senior Software Engineer

Role: Designs, implements, and maintains complex software systems.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science; expertise in programming languages like Java, Python, or C++; experience with frameworks and version control systems.

Average Salary: $194,220

6. Corporate Lawyer

Role: Provides legal advice and services to businesses on various legal matters.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; law school and JD; bar exam; specialization in corporate law.

Average Salary: $149,68

7. Investment Banker

Role: Facilitates financial transactions, advises on strategies, manages mergers, and raises capital.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in finance or related field; securities licenses; understanding of financial markets; certifications like CFA recommended.

Average Salary: $144,633

8. Cloud Architect

Role: Designs and manages cloud computing architecture.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or IT; relevant certifications (e.g., AWS, Azure); skills in IaC tools and cloud networking.

Average Salary: $144,000

9. Internet of Things (IoT) Architect

Role: Designs and implements the architecture of IoT systems.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field; proficiency in programming languages; knowledge of networking, embedded systems, and IoT security.

Average Salary: $131,646

10. Petroleum Engineer

Role: Specializes in the exploration, extraction, and production of oil and natural gas.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or related field; internships; knowledge of programming and simulation tools; certification.

Average Salary: $130,523

[ourjobagency]

How to Advance Your Career with AWS Certifications

In the fast-paced world of cloud computing, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has established itself as a leader in providing scalable, reliable, and cost-effective cloud solutions. As organizations increasingly migrate their workloads to the cloud, the demand for skilled AWS professionals has surged. If you're looking to advance your career in the IT industry, AWS certifications can be your ticket to success. We'll explore how AWS certifications can propel your career forward and provide a step-by-step guide to achieving them.

The Power of AWS Certifications

AWS certifications are widely recognized in the IT industry and are considered a valuable asset for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Here are some key reasons why AWS certifications can supercharge your career:

1. Industry Recognition

AWS is a trusted name in cloud computing, and their certifications are well-respected by employers worldwide. Holding an AWS certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to staying current in a rapidly evolving field.

2. Career Advancement

AWS certifications can open doors to new job opportunities and promotions. Many organizations prefer to hire certified professionals because they are seen as more capable and knowledgeable in AWS technologies.

3. Increased Earning Potential

Certified AWS professionals often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. According to a survey by Global Knowledge, AWS-certified individuals earn an average salary that is significantly above the industry average.

4. Skill Validation

Obtaining an AWS certification validates your skills and knowledge in specific AWS services and technologies. It serves as concrete evidence of your expertise in the eyes of potential employers.

Choosing the Right AWS Certification

AWS offers a wide range of certifications, catering to various roles and skill levels. Before you embark on your certification journey, it's essential to choose the one that aligns with your career goals and current experience. Here are a few popular AWS certifications:

1. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Designed for individuals with little or no cloud experience, this entry-level certification provides a broad overview of AWS services, cloud concepts, and basic architectural best practices.

2. AWS Certified Solutions Architect

This certification is ideal for those interested in designing distributed systems on AWS. It covers topics like architectural best practices, security, and scalability.

3. AWS Certified SysOps Administrator

Focused on system operations and management, this certification is suitable for individuals responsible for deploying, managing, and operating systems on AWS.

4. AWS Certified DevOps Engineer

For those interested in automation, this certification validates skills related to continuous delivery, automation, and managing infrastructure as code.

5. AWS Certified Security - Specialty

For security professionals, this certification focuses on securing AWS workloads and implementing advanced security measures.

Steps to AWS Certification Success

Now that you've decided on the right certification, here are the steps to help you achieve your goal:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define your career goals and how AWS certifications align with them. Having a clear vision will keep you motivated throughout your certification journey.

2. Choose Relevant Training Resources

AWS provides extensive documentation and training resources, including online courses, practice exams, and official study guides. Consider enrolling in AWS Certified training courses, which are designed to help you prepare for the exams.

3. Hands-On Experience

Practice is key to mastering AWS. Create your AWS account and experiment with the services covered in your chosen certification. Hands-on experience will deepen your understanding and boost your confidence.

4. Study and Prepare

Devote time to study and review the certification's objectives. Use study guides, practice exams, and community forums to reinforce your knowledge.

5. Take Practice Exams

Practice exams are invaluable for gauging your readiness. They help you identify areas where you need to improve and build your test-taking skills.

6. Schedule and Take the Exam

Once you feel confident in your knowledge, schedule your exam. AWS offers both online and in-person testing options to accommodate your preferences.

7. Stay Informed

AWS constantly updates its services and certifications. Stay informed about changes and consider pursuing additional certifications to continue growing in your career.

Conclusion

AWS certifications have become a gold standard in the IT industry, and they offer an excellent opportunity to advance your career. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to level up your skills, there's a certification tailored to your needs. Remember that certification is a journey, not a destination. Keep learning, stay updated, and embrace the dynamic world of AWS to unlock the full potential of your cloud computing career. With dedication and the right certifications, you can be on your way to a brighter and more rewarding future in the world of cloud computing.

[sswrnd1]

Cloud Engineers & Architects

Cloud Engineers & Architects are essential roles in the development and implementation of cloud computing solutions. They are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining cloud-based infrastructures that enable businesses to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively.

A cloud engineer is typically responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the cloud infrastructure. This includes configuring cloud-based servers, storage systems, and networking infrastructure to support the needs of the organization. They also work with developers to ensure that applications can be deployed and scaled effectively in the cloud.

On the other hand, a cloud architect is responsible for designing the overall architecture of the cloud-based infrastructure. This includes making decisions on which cloud technologies to use, how to integrate different systems, and how to optimize the overall performance of the infrastructure. They work closely with the business stakeholders to understand their requirements and develop cloud solutions that meet their needs.

Both cloud engineers and architects require a deep understanding of cloud technologies, as well as experience with cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). They also need to have a solid understanding of networking and security concepts, as well as experience with DevOps methodologies and tools.

In summary, cloud engineers and architects play a crucial role in the successful deployment and management of cloud-based infrastructure. They are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining these systems to ensure that businesses can operate efficiently and cost-effectively in the cloud.

[ritumistry11]

BBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management - Northwood University - Northwest Executive Education

Northwood’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Operations and Supply Chain Management, a STEM certified program, will teach you how to approach operations and supply chain management with a business mindset

https://northwest.education/northwood-bachelor-of-business-administration-in-operations-and-supply-chain-management/

[qwikskills]

Become a Google Cloud Expert: Tips for Google Cloud Certification

If you're looking to improve your cloud computing skills, earning a Google Cloud certification is a great way to showcase your knowledge and expertise. The Google Cloud Platform offers a variety of certifications, including Associate Cloud Engineer, Professional Cloud Architect, and Professional Cloud Developer.

To prepare for these exams, it is important that you have a good understanding of Google Cloud features and services. Google Cloud practice labs and other training resources can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to pass the certification exam.

To become a Google Cloud expert, start by learning the basics of cloud computing, then explore more advanced topics like networking, security, and data management . Also, consider taking a practice test and joining a community of professionals who also want to be Google Cloud certified.

By earning a Google Cloud certification, you not only demonstrate your expertise to employers and clients, but also gain a deeper understanding of the power and potential of cloud computing. With these skills, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any cloud-related challenge that comes your way.

[gudguy1a]

2022 - A Stellar Virtual Cover Letter of Patrick A

2022 – A Stellar Virtual Cover Letter of Patrick A

RECRUITERS: please encourage your clients to review this unique online cover letter. It is the game changer where clients who do check it out end up bringing me on-board. In the past, I discovered many previous recruiters diluted my info so much when presenting to clients, I appear to be JUST another run of the mill candidate. And, I am not. My aptitude, attitude and drive are there and evident…

[astral-realities]

would you mind telling us about your architects?

SDA: Of course. My architect, Golden Thread in an Ornate Tapestry is...

SDA: ...was…

SDA: …a person of many talents. Her interest in art and fashion allowed her to become a well-known designer. In addition, they were tasked with my development, and dare I say - she did great.

SDA: She was …. a lovely person to be around. I’m proud to call them my friend.

BROS: (What they won’t tell you is that she became an architect mostly due to their mother’s status…)

BROS: (… who happens to be the main engineer of Vastness of Silence…)

HS: Eleven Claws, Eternal Grace. Though he usually went by just “Grace”.

HS: While there were those who deemed his approach to some matters controversial, he was an important figure in the scientific community.

HS: His team and I worked hard to help him fulfill his visions.

BROS: (Habitually Stargazing has too much respect for his creators to admit Grace was not a very pleasant person to be around…)

TFB: Spring after Storm, Ruby Blossoms Flourish.

TFB: There isn’t much for me to say about them.

TFB: They pioneered a couple of gene alteration algorithms, I suppose. Many of the creatures in my area are the descendants of their experiments.

BROS: (Flowers wasn’t very fond of her creator, though I believe she never spoke of this disdain directly. She continuously worked on her tasks while they were still around.)

BROS: (Oh, my turn!)

BROS: This is Quicksilver Rains from Dark Clouds! We usually called her Rains. Or Clouds, or Silver, or anything in between.

BROS: As you can guess, she’s my architect! Legend has it she built me due to her dissatisfaction with the quality of medical care in the area.

BROS: Rains strived to improve the quality of life of those around her - though she’d never admit she actually cared about them that much! She was a rather reserved person, but if you got to know her and her sense of humor, it was great.

BROS: I do miss her at times.

[ssw12]

[tsukimefuku]

kintsugi :: higuruma hiromi

Higuruma, former lawyer, curse user, and reformed jujutsu sorcerer tries to make sense of what his life has become after the war is finally over.

content warning: spoilers for jjk 269. hinted kusahigu. mostly fluff and introspection, some hurt and comfort if you squint.

wc: 1.8k

notes etc.: written to the sound of “here I dreamt I was an architect” by the decemberists. Inspired by this stunning higuruma fanart by @valleyofwater.

The sun hung high, and fully illuminated the classroom with the golden spring warmth. The blue sky surrounding it would be pristine, if not for a few stray clouds that on occasion cast its shadows over Jujutsu High, only adding to the idyllic, leisurely ambiance. 

“I didn’t understand that very well,” Yuji admitted as he sheepishly scratched the back of his neck, earning him the indignant grunts from Megumi and Nobara.

“What do you mean? Higuruma-san explains things much better than Gojo sensei ever did and you learned from him, of all people!” Nobara complained, leaning over her classmate’s chair and smacking the back of Yuji’s head with her fist. She then proceeded to adjust her eye patch and sink into her chair with her arms crossed over her chest.

“His explanation was, indeed, very clear,” Megumi chimed in as Yuji attempted to soothe his pain by brushing his fingers over a growing bulge on his scalp. 

Higuruma, unaccustomed to juggling three teenagers, solely watched the unfolding scene in utter helplessness. With a sigh, he reclined back against the black board while looking at Itadori.

“What exactly did you fail to understand?” 

Yuji cleared his throat for a second, knowing full well his answer would earn him another round of getting kicked around like a poor puppy.

“Everything,” he whispered, lowering his gaze towards the floor before Nobara’s protests in disbelief reverberated like a roar throughout the vicinity.

With a sigh of resignation, Higuruma relaxed his shoulders while checking his wrist watch.

“You do better with practical lessons, Itadori,” the reformed jujutsu sorcerer remarked.

“I do!” Yuji confirmed, starting to pull a contented smile on his face.

“That wasn’t a question.” 

“Oh.”

That smile left as quick as it came.

Megumi covered his face with his palm, and wondered for a second when the elation for being back to normal life gave place to the mundane, every-day annoyance of dealing with Itadori and Kugisaki’s shenanigans.

“Let’s wrap this up for the day, and tomorrow we can have a practical lesson at the Dojo,” Higuruma concluded, crossing his arms.

After some fumbling around, the three students finished packing their things. Nobara and Megumi stepped outside, as she tried to place a bet on who would get to the vending machines first. Megumi’s grumpy demeanor did little to hide the fact that he had, even if begrudgingly, taken her up on her challenge.

Yuji remained on his chair, though, still ruminating on his hardship to learn about the inner workings of the cursed energy world as quickly as his classmates.

Higuruma looked at the boy, and remained silent for a short while before asking him what was the matter.

“It’s just… I don’t know, after everything that happened, I thought I could learn these things faster now, you know?”

Softly brushing his hand around his jaw, Higuruma pondered for a moment.

“Each person has a different learning process. I learned jujutsu by reverse engineering my own cursed technique and figuring out how it worked. Most learn about cursed energy and then go onto training their own CTs all the way up to domain expansion. It’s fine. With only three students, we can tailor classes for each and every one of you.”

His words seemed to soothe Yuji, who looked at Higuruma and spared him a relieved smile.

“I guess you’re right,” Yuji conceded, pondering for a few moments before proceeding, “you remind me of someone.”

“I do?”

“Yes,” Yuji replied, getting up and walking towards the door. For a second, Higuruma’s suited up, responsible demeanor brought him flashbacks of a much lighter colored suit, a blonde, side parted hair and a pair of green shades. “He was a very serious person, and kind, just like yourself.”

Higuruma’s mouth fell slightly open, but no words came out before Yuji waved at him, bidding his teacher goodbye before sprinting towards Nobara and Megumi.

I am so out of my element. Why did I agree to come here, of all places? Higuruma asked himself while sinking down on his desk’s chair. 

“Rough class?” 

The familiar, low baritone voice came accompanied by a few footsteps inside the classroom. Hiromi lifted his gaze to see the signature brownish-beige trench coat, along with the man who wore it.

“Good afternoon, Kusakabe,” Hiromi offered, nudging himself over his seat while motioning to get up. Kusakabe signaled for him to keep seated with one of his hands, before leaning himself on the desk’s side with his hands in his pockets and a lollipop shoved into his mouth.

“Rough life,” Higuruma replied, half in jest. Truth was, those past few months — nearly half a year after the fight at Shinjuku against Sukuna — felt like some sort of uncomfortable fever dream to Higuruma.

He was offered the opportunity to atone for his crimes as a teacher at Jujutsu High, and he seized said opportunity. However, the former lawyer caught himself struggling to fall asleep most nights while pondering. He didn’t know, unfortunately, what had made his soul so uneasy.

“At least we are not shacked up like sardines inside a makeshift bunker while fighting for our lives against a genocidal maniac,” Kusakabe promptly replied, earning him a nod from Higuruma.

”I guess you’re right. How has life as the new NSS headmaster been?”

“Almost pushing me back into smoking. Sometimes, I wish these lollipops were made out of pure nicotine.”

At that, Higuruma spared a quick, discreet smile.

“That bad?”

“Don’t even get me started on it,” Kusakabe grunted, glancing over towards the windows. “It’s a beautiful day, huh?”

Higuruma looked down at his hands, which sat together over the desk. After Kusakabe was done admiring the view, he turned his eyes to Higuruma, noticing the man sinking further into himself.

”Higuruma, how have you been? Is everything alright?” 

“I…” Higuruma let his voice drag, uncertain just as his feelings had been about everything that had happened ever since that fateful day in Keita’s trial, “I don’t know how to do this.”

“Do what?” Kusakabe inquired, confused.

“I thought I was supposed to die back at Shinjuku. I believed that I would fulfill my duty, and… I don’t know, achieve some sort of spiritual absolution if I died while playing my role in the battle against Sukuna. But I just lived. It doesn’t make sense, it’s not adding up to me.” 

Kusakabe quickly realized this was the first time Higuruma was effectively putting these feelings into words, and conceded him the moments’ reprieve necessary for the man to collect his thoughts.

“Everything I’ve learned since gaining my CT was how to fight a war.” 

Higuruma sighed, and upon further contemplation, realized that what he said wasn’t the entire truth.  

“Actually, ever since I was a lawyer, all I ever did was fight a war, be it symbolically or literally. No one told me how to live my life after it was over, in peaceful times. I don’t think I quite know how to do that.”

“No one does,” Kusakabe quickly interjected.

“What?” Higuruma asked, his voice slightly surprised.

“No one knows how to live life. We’re just… living it, and doing what’s needed to get by. Clinging to what might give it some meaning from time to time.” 

Higuruma looked down, and let his colleague’s words sink in slowly. For all this time, he’d felt like a movie that overstayed its welcome, dragging along its plot for much longer that it should have. Upon experiencing the warmth of the sun coming through the wide set windows caressing his skin, however, Higuruma thought it didn’t seem so bad, after all.

“Everything I had ever believed in was broken, and I guess I was, too. My life,” Higuruma remarked, “and I’m finding it hard to piece things back together. I don’t know if that’s possible.” 

“I suppose you’ve heard of kintsugi,” Kusakabe said while pulling another lollipop from his pocket and replacing the already finished candy with a new one.

Higuruma was taken aback by the sudden shift in the conversation.

“The practice of fixing broken ceramic pieces with gold? Yes, I’m familiar.”

“Your life is the broken ceramic.”

… What?

Kusakabe had no ease for metaphors, and it showed in Higuruma's completely puzzled expression.

With a grunt, the seasoned sorcerer pulled the lollipop from his mouth and began gesturing around, as if trying to pull the words to have himself make sense out of thin air.

“What I mean to say is… broken things can be fixed, and sometimes the way they’re fixed can make them more valuable than they were before. Or something like that.”

Higuruma’s confusion subsided for the most part, but he remained silent to see if Kusakabe would offer some final commentary.

He did. 

“There is value in the healed cracks. That’s all. Perhaps this second chance you’ve been given is an opportunity to do just that. Heal those cracks with something valuable, I mean.”

Higuruma’s eyes traveled gently over the classroom in front of him, and he finally gazed out the window while actually paying attention to it for the first time in a long while. He saw the golden rays of sunshine projecting a soft, welcoming light over the students’ desks, noticed how clear the sky truly was, and the cloud-scattered blue that encompassed it all together as a visual symphony.

“It really is a beautiful day, after all,” Higuruma remarked, looking back at Kusakabe with a smile.

Kusakabe’s eyes met Hiromi’s, and this was probably the first time he had actually seen the man smiling with actual joy.

In a second, Kusakabe coughed, feeling his face warming up, and averted his gaze while covering his mouth with his fist.

“Is everything alright?” Higuruma asked, gently tilting his head to the side. “Did you choke on your lollipop?”

“No. It’s okay, I’m fine,” the other man answered, mentally pulling himself back to normal. “I just really have to go back to work.”

“Oh. Okay. I should probably leave this classroom too and get something to eat.” 

Kusakabe nodded and propped himself up, walking towards the door. However, he stopped as he was nearly past it, and turned around.

“Higuruma.”

The former lawyer had just gotten up himself, and turned to face his colleague.

“What?”

“Me and some other people from jujutsu high — assistants, mostly — will have a happy hour this Friday. Would you like to join us?”

The question caught Hiromi completely off guard, and he faltered for a few seconds before clearing his throat and answering, “yes. I appreciate the invite.”

Kusakabe nodded once more. “Okay. See you this Friday, then.”

As he watched Kusakabe leaving, Higuruma could feel the liquid gold slowly seeping into the cracks of his broken life, gluing things back in place.

written by tsukimefuku ㋡ comments and reblogs are appreciated. do not copy, translate or repost. copycatting is for losers.