#Profit Accuracy

[deanmarywinchester]

im absolutely dying to read someone who has interesting things to say about historical fiction talk about bridgerton. if anyone has any good essays please send them my way

[sonknuxadow]

im gonna be honest i think they could have done so much better with the sonic x dc designs i feel like most of them are just okay at best and they didnt really play around with the concept as much as they could have to come up with a fun design. but i dont know what to suggest that would make them better

[asestimationsconsultants]

The Impact of Construction Estimating Services on Builder Profit Margins

Construction estimating services play a crucial role in determining the financial success of a project. By providing accurate and reliable estimates, these services ensure that builders can manage costs effectively and remain competitive in the market. For builders, maintaining a healthy profit margin is essential to staying in business, and construction estimating services are key to achieving this goal. In this article, we will explore how using professional estimating services can have a significant impact on a builder’s profit margins.

1. Accurate Cost Forecasting

One of the most significant ways construction estimating services affect profit margins is by providing accurate cost forecasts. Inaccurate estimates can lead to costly overruns, which can quickly eat into a builder’s profits. Professional estimators use a variety of tools, databases, and experience to generate highly accurate cost projections for labor, materials, equipment, and other project-related expenses. These accurate estimates ensure that the builder can price the project appropriately, avoiding both underpricing and overpricing, and thus protecting profit margins.

Accurate cost forecasting also helps builders avoid unexpected expenses, which can often lead to financial strain on the business. By carefully considering potential risks and uncertainties during the estimation process, professional services can factor in contingencies that further safeguard profit margins.

2. Effective Budget Management

Construction estimating services assist builders in developing detailed and realistic budgets for each project. By breaking down the project into its various components, estimators can provide a clear picture of where the builder's money is going. This budget can then serve as a tool for effective project management, enabling builders to stay within the financial constraints throughout the project.

A well-managed budget helps builders track expenses in real-time, identifying areas where costs may be exceeding expectations and allowing for adjustments before the project goes over budget. This proactive approach to budget management allows for better financial control, which directly impacts the builder’s profit margins.

3. Reduced Risk of Cost Overruns

Cost overruns are one of the biggest challenges in the construction industry, and they can quickly undermine a builder’s profitability. Construction estimating services help to mitigate this risk by identifying all potential cost factors early in the process and ensuring that they are accounted for in the estimate. Estimators can identify possible risks, such as fluctuations in material prices or changes in labor costs, and include contingency amounts to prepare for unforeseen circumstances.

In addition, estimators can offer advice on the best ways to reduce costs without compromising quality. For example, they might recommend more cost-effective materials or suggest ways to streamline the construction process, all of which can help reduce the chances of cost overruns.

4. Improved Pricing Strategy

Having access to accurate estimates and comprehensive data allows builders to implement a better pricing strategy. By understanding the true cost of a project, builders can ensure that their bids are competitive yet still profitable. Construction estimating services help builders determine a fair price for their services by analyzing the cost of labor, materials, and overheads, as well as factoring in market trends.

If a builder sets their price too low, they risk losing money on the project, while setting it too high can lead to losing the bid to a competitor. A well-priced project can enhance a builder's chances of winning bids while ensuring that they maintain a healthy profit margin. Using estimating services helps to strike the right balance between competitive pricing and profitability.

5. Streamlined Project Management

By providing accurate and timely estimates, construction estimating services contribute to smoother project management. When builders have a detailed estimate, they can plan for the necessary resources, including labor and materials, well in advance. This allows for better scheduling and reduces the chances of project delays, which can be costly.

Streamlining the project management process also means fewer last-minute expenses for things like overtime, expedited shipping for materials, or rush orders. This level of control over the project reduces the chances of unexpected costs and ensures that the builder’s profit margin is not compromised.

6. Enhanced Negotiation Power

When a builder has access to accurate estimates, they are better equipped to negotiate with suppliers, subcontractors, and clients. Builders can use their estimates as a basis for negotiating lower prices with suppliers and subcontractors, as they can clearly outline the materials and services required for the project. In turn, this can help reduce costs and improve profit margins.

Additionally, having a clear and accurate estimate makes it easier to justify pricing to clients. Clients are more likely to trust a builder who can provide transparent, well-documented estimates, which may lead to fewer disputes over costs and more favorable terms in negotiations.

7. Increased Client Satisfaction

Accurate and reliable estimates help ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget, both of which are critical factors for client satisfaction. By delivering projects on budget, builders can foster strong relationships with their clients, leading to repeat business and referrals. Happy clients are more likely to recommend a builder to others, which can lead to additional work and ultimately higher profits in the long term.

In addition, transparent and accurate estimates demonstrate professionalism and build trust with clients, further enhancing the builder’s reputation in the industry.

8. Scalability and Growth

As construction companies grow, they often take on larger and more complex projects. To maintain healthy profit margins while scaling, builders need to ensure that their estimating processes remain efficient and accurate. Professional construction estimating services provide the tools and expertise needed to handle larger projects without losing control over costs.

By using estimating services, builders can expand their operations without worrying about the financial risks associated with taking on bigger projects. This scalability allows construction businesses to grow while maintaining their profit margins, as they can confidently bid on larger and more lucrative projects.

9. Time Savings and Focus on Core Activities

Time is money in the construction business, and manual estimating can be a time-consuming process. Builders can save time by outsourcing the estimating process to professional services. This time-saving allows the builder to focus on other important aspects of the business, such as project execution, managing subcontractors, and client relationships.

Time saved on estimating can also be reinvested in other profit-driving activities, which can contribute to an overall increase in profit margins.

10. Long-Term Financial Benefits

Although hiring a professional estimating service comes with an upfront cost, the long-term financial benefits outweigh the expense. Builders can expect higher profitability due to better project planning, reduced risk of cost overruns, and improved pricing strategies. In the long run, investing in construction estimating services can result in a significant return on investment.

Conclusion

Construction estimating services are vital for maintaining and improving builder profit margins. By providing accurate estimates, improving budget management, reducing risk, and enhancing pricing strategies, these services help builders stay competitive and profitable in a challenging industry. With streamlined project management, better negotiation power, and increased client satisfaction, builders who leverage estimating services can maximize their profitability and ensure long-term business success.

[sirfrogsworth]

Looking at some of your work, it is stunning but it is very similar in style to AI artwork, do you have any recommendations for how to tell apart photography like yours from AI.

I've been thinking about this. And this may sound controversial at first, but I'm hoping people will hear me out.

We should stop trying so hard to detect AI art.

I think we should all lift that burden from our brains.

I have often talked about "woke goggles." Where conservatives have lost the ability to enjoy anything because they are hypervigilant about detecting anything woke. They've cursed themselves into just hating everything. All they have left is the "God's Not Dead" Cinematic Universe.

And I worry people are getting AI goggles now. They are so concerned about accidentally enjoying robot art and hurting artists that they have overcorrected to the point where they are hurting artists.

One cannot say "AI is all soulless slop that always looks bad" and then accuse a real artist of making something that looks like AI and not hurt them. By doing so, it includes the baggage of all of the "slop" comments along with it. This crusade is having collateral damage to the very artists we are trying to protect.

Yes, we need to be cautious about malicious AI images. Misinformation and deepfakes are going to be a big problem. People using AI imagery for profit is already a mess. But if you are cruising your feed and like a cool sci-fi robot gal or a photo of a waterfall and it turns out to be AI... that's fine.

It was trained by real artists and AI is going to create some cool shit because of that.

Honestly, I think a lot of the worst slop is because the dipshits creating the prompts have no artistic taste. People keep blaming the AI for how bad it looks and often don't consider it is a product of the loser who published it.

There is plenty of non-slop out there that has fooled me. And, like it or not, it is going to get harder and harder to tell what is AI. Until there are better tools or better regulations, I don't think there is much we can do to avoid enjoying AI art every once in a while. If only by accident.

Current "AI detectors" are mostly a scam. Even the best forensic-level AI image detectors struggle to stay above 70���80% accuracy across a wide range of models and image types. And that's in controlled lab conditions.

Free online tools often drop to near coin-flip accuracy (50–60%), especially with newer image generators and post-processing applied.

The best way to avoid AI imagery is to look at an artist's body of work. It's much harder to create consistent, non-obvious fake images in a large sample size. That is usually enough to have confidence in authenticity. Plus, if they have posted similar art before 2022, you can pretty much rule out any shenanigans.

Otis literally died before genAI was available.

But images you see in the wild, just let yourself enjoy them if that is what your brain wants to do. It'll be okay.

I just think we are attacking this backwards. If we want to protect artists, we need to support them.

Calling out random AI art does not support them.

It does not put money in their pockets.

It does not grow their audience.

Over a decade ago I tried to lead a fight to create better systems of attribution on websites like Reddit and Imgur. I even spoke to the Imgur team after an article was written about me.

I asked them to allow sources on their posts and to develop tech that would help people find where an image came from. They said they were "working on it" and it never manifested.

IMAGE SHARING SITES STEAL MORE FROM ARTISTS THAN AI.

But we just kind of accepted it. No one really joined me in my fight. The prevailing defeatist attitude was, "That's just the way it is."

I think now is the time to demand better attribution systems. We need to be vigilant about making sure as many posts as possible have good sourcing. If an image on Reddit goes viral, the top comment should be the source. And if it isn't, you should try to find it and add it.

Just to be clear, "credit to the original artist" is NOT proper attribution.

And perhaps we can lobby these image sharing sites to create better sourcing systems and tools. They could even use fucking AI to find the earliest posted version of an image.

And it would be nice if it didn't require people to go into the comments to find the source. It could just be in the headline. They could even create little badges "made by a human" for verified artists.

Good attribution helps artists grow their audience. It is one of the single most effective things you can do to help them.

I literally just got this message...

There are maybe 10 popular artists who I helped grow their audience early on. Just because I reblogged their work and added links to all of their social media. I even hired my best friend to add sourcing information to every post because I believed so much in good attribution.

Calling out AI art may feel good in the moment. You caught someone trying to trick people and it feels like justice. But, in most cases, the tangible benefits to real artists seem small. It impedes your ability to enjoy art without always being suspicious. And the risk of telling someone you think they make soulless slop doesn't seem worth it.

But putting that time and effort into attribution *would* be worth it. I have proven it time and time again.

I also think people should consider having a monthly art budget. I don't care if it is $5. But if we all commit to seeking out cool artists and being their collective patrons, we could really make a difference and keep real art alive. Just commit to finding a cool new artist every month and financially contributing to them in some way.

On a bigger scale I think advocating for universal basic income, art grants for education and creation, and government regulation of AI would all be helpful long term goals. Though I think our friends in Europe may have to take the lead on regulation at the moment.

So...

Stop worrying about enjoying or calling out AI art.

Demand better attribution from image sharing sites.

Make sure all art has a source listed.

Start an art budget.

Advocate for better regulations.

[tobiasdrake]

Which DBZ antagonist do you like the most?

Boring opinion, I know, but I gotta give it up for the Obvious Choice.

And I'm not just saying that because I haven't had a chance to talk about him yet.

Frieza runs a real estate empire that carries out genocidal acts of gentrification, purging tracts of land of their native inhabitants so he can sell their land for profit. Commenting on this choice for his ultimate villain, Akira Toriyama stated that he made this decision because real estate speculators are the worst people there are.

Fucking based.

From the moment we meet Frieza, he is a monster. Toriyama likes this Big Guy Little Guy dynamic where the Little Guy is the one you really need to watch out for. Frieza is the Littlest Guy ever.

He's so tiny. And yet you know exactly who the most dangerous person in this group is. Zero question.

By the end of this altercation, Frieza reveals one of his signature attacks, giving us our first glimpse of the kind of person and the kind of fighter he is. This is such an important moment for his character and I'm kinda mad that the anime had Dodoria do it instead.

Muri destroys the Scouters and blinds Frieza. I've talked before at length about the devastating impact that this move and the Namekian warriors' attack has on Frieza's campaign.

But once it's done, he has to face the music. He's not getting out of this alive.

In one last desperation play, Muri tells Cargo and Dende to run while blocking them with his body. And that's when it happens.

This is Frieza.

Specifically, this is Frieza's Death Beam. It's never actually given a name, but is generally referred to as Death Beam. We've seen a move like this only once before.

The Dodonpa, signature technique of Tsuru-senryu, first introduced by the assassin Taopaipai, was built for extreme lethality. This is not a technique for fighting; It's a technique for killing.

What makes Frieza's Death Beam stand out from the Dodonpa, however, is its accuracy and its speed. He threads the needle around Muri to hit Cargo before anyone even has a chance to react.

We see its accuracy and speed again six days later, when it finally catches up to the other child fleeing from him here.

The panelwork here calling attention to everyone's reactions as Frieza's ki bullet shoots past them, as his shot threads the needle between all obstacles in his path to strike his target far behind them. Dende is dead before anyone can even process that Frieza fired.

This is the difference between the two techniques. The Dodonpa is a gun. The Death Beam is a sniper rifle. Faced with the physical hurdle of bodies impeding his path, Frieza point-clicked Cargo and Dende to death.

He later executes Vegeta this same way.

Done with you.

All of this context for Frieza's sniping shot serves to set up the stunning subversion when Goku arrives to fight.

Frieza's never seen this before. Goku shouldn't even be able to see the shots coming until they've perforated his lungs. That's how Death Beam works. It's this moment that lays it out: Frieza's about to be tested like he's never been tested before.

Speaking of cool techniques, I've always been partial to this move from his Third Form.

The anime gives Frieza little ki bullets coming out of his fingers but I want to note that we never see a physical projectile when he's doing this. Frieza jams his fingers back and forth in the air while something pulverizes Piccolo.

I've always imagined he's poking the air so fast that it's hitting Piccolo with pressurized air currents. Similar to Goku's Mazoku air current punch from the 23rd Tenkaichi Budokai.

But that's just me.

In any case, Frieza's got some fun moves. He's something of a hobbyist martial artist. Which is to say, Frieza has an interest in martial arts. In addition to his Death Beam, Frieza's concocted a litany of other interesting techniques.

He even invented the Kienzan, independently of Krillin.

Though he can remote operate his Kienzan so it's strictly better than Krillin's. Frieza, in his spare time, has come up with a bunch of cool moves. Too bad he has no idea how to use them.

Frieza's greatest weakness is his inexperience. He practices martial arts the way a business CEO who bought a log splitter so he can cut some wood and feel woodsy practices agriculture. Frieza has never had a proper chance to truly experience martial arts, because he was born too powerful.

The only partner who's ever even dirtied his skin was his dad.

And even that isn't much. Frieza's too strong. He wants to pursue martial arts. He wants to hone his technique. But when you win every fight by blinking too hard in the opponent's direction, what even is there to practice?

Frieza created a transformation to seal away his immeasurable ki because he was born with so much ki flowing from him that he can't even contain it. At his peak, Frieza's ki bleeds out of him. He simply can't contain it.

Goku wonders aloud why Frieza took so long, even after the fight turned against him, to go to 100%. Frieza's been all "Oh I'm only using 10% power this is my 50% you made me go to 75%" and Goku's like, "Okay. My dude. What's this about, for real?

This, incidentally, is not a great translation. What Goku's saying here is supposed to be basically, "Perhaps when you use your full power, your body can't handle it."

He is correct.

Frieza's Full Power has a lot in common with Super Saiyan 3. His theoretical maximum ability is wildly different from the reality of what he's capable of, because he bleeds ki like it's going out of style.

So, while other characters wound up earning transformations that make them more powerful, Frieza created a transformation to seal away some of his incomprehensible ki.

Then he created a couple more because even though he could now control his strength and even manipulate the amount of ki he's releasing at a time, he was still too powerful for anyone to ever compete with and needed even more ki sealed away.

Again, not a fantastic translation from the people who brought us "bottom-tier boy", as Frieza's statement here could be interpreted as saying that he gets taken by a berserker rage or something.

What he's saying is more like, "My power is so great that I can't properly contain it."

Point is, Frieza transformed to lock down his ki and seal parts of it away, so he could control the rest better. Then he kept going, locking away more and more and more of his ki. And even at his most nerfed, he's still five times more powerful than the Second Strongest Guy in the Universe.

Frieza has never in his life had the opportunity to be pushed. That's what makes Goku so enthralling to him.

Frieza plays with Goku because he's genuinely having the time of his life. This guy can fight him in his Final Form. Nobody can fight him in his Final Form. He's so happy, he straight-up forgets that he's trying to complete a genocide against Goku's entire race.

He said that five minutes ago. Gohan's hidden power freaked Frieza the fuck out. Saiyans are too strong now. They've gotten too strong. Frieza cannot permit them to keep existing because they're getting strong. Every last Saiyan, every last one, must die. Every single one. Scorched earth, no survivors.

But then he meets a Saiyan martial artist who's a technical master and pushes him more than he ever thought possible and suddenly:

He goes from "Saiyans are TOO STRONG and they all must die because they might threaten me" to "OH MY GOD I'M HAVING SO MUCH FUN CAN I KEEP YOU!?"

It's this desire for a true rival, this opportunity to satisfy his amateur's curiosity about martial arts, that ultimately unravels him. Frieza has one ruthless and pragmatic option for ending this fight once it starts to be too much for him. He can technically stop the fight any time he wants.

But he can't bring himself to do it. He wants to fight. He wants to compete. Frieza's been on the outside looking in at martial arts for his entire life and even when his greatest fears are fulfilled and the Super Saiyan is in front of him, he wants to try.

So when he does attempt to pull his Lethal Ragequit, he pulls back at the last second. He can't bring himself to do it. Goku initially assesses that Frieza held back out of fear of hurting himself.

But later, as Frieza begins unlocking the final chains on his ki, Goku changes his assessment. Noting that if Frieza really held back simply out of a mistake, he could have shot the planet again at any point to finish the job. He's been letting this play out because he can't bring himself to end the greatest fight of his life that way.

This fight is still happening because Frieza wants to compete. I mean, he wants to win, of course, but he wants to win as a martial artist. He's never truly gotten to be a martial artist before.

He is not the guy winning the gold medal at the Tenkaichi Budokai. He has never been that guy. He's the guy who buys up the land the Tenkaichi Budokai is held on and then bulldozes all the people off of it. But in his heart of hearts, he wants to be that guy. That guy is so cool. Frieza wants to play too.

In a sense, by hosting the Cell Games, Cell got to live Frieza's greatest fantasy.

This is who Frieza is. He's the cruel and wicked heir to Genocide Realtors Inc., who is in love with the idea of being Tenshinhan - A desire that exists at odds with - and undermines - his pragmatic business sense, so to speak.

He is the most vile character in the history of Dragon Ball. The worst kind of person. He is also an overeager child whose wealth and privilege prevents him from ever truly enjoying his hobbies, to an extent that he'd be almost pitiable but for all the genocides.

And he is Dragon Ball's greatest villain.

[frivolousimagination]

ego stroke | henry loomis

summary: a very brief talk with Henry about science being for everyone

word count: ~1k

warnings: spoilers for Rebirth

notes: guys this is so… nothing 😭 but I’m going insane for him and have several ideas, this is just kinda bland sorry

· · ─ ·✶· ─ · · · · ─ ·✶· ─ · · · · ─ ·✶· ─ · ·

Science is for all of us, not just for some of us.

It wasn't even meant for your ears, nor was it a message you needed to hear. But it struck you.

The accuracy and heart that he had said it with. It came out so easily, telling you it was a message that he truly believed in.

Henry Loomis has a true passion for his work, and you undoubtedly knew this from the very first second you'd met. But it seemed it was becoming increasingly rare to hear someone share the opinion that education, that knowledge, that science belongs to everyone.

It gave you reason to view him in a whole new light, beyond the shared moments of shock and awe upon truly experiencing dinosaurs as they are now.

Being here, on lle Saint-Hubert, was complete insanity. It felt surreal. The creatures you'd already seen, the plant life you had already brushed past. None of it felt real. You never imagined living in a time where you could see these things in their full glory, something beyond a fossilized memory. Henry was the only other one on the team to truly understand this. Even as some of these creatures were determined to turn you into your next meal, you couldn't help but admire and adore them.

"What you said back there was perfect." You glanced at Henry, trying to spark a conversation.

The two of you were walking side by side, weaving through the tall plants as you made your way to the next dinosaur. You wanted nothing more than to set up a tent and stay studying just this area, before eventually moving camp to study another. Every inch of this island had your attention. Henry's too. But he switched focus.

"What'd you mean?" He glanced at you briefly.

"To Zora," you clarify. "Y'know, science belongs to everyone. She needed that, I think."

Henry smiled slightly. You'd practically confirmed that you agreed giving Krebs the samples would be a mistake. And of course you would, Henry should've called that from a mile away. You were a scientist, and you had heart. He'd known that from the beginning. He admired you for it immediately. It was the exact reason for the relationship built between the two of you over the last few months.

You had come together for several consults in the past, giving Henry the chance to see how knowledgeable you were in your specified field of paleobotany, and you to see him with paleontology. It was always nice to meet someone with an equal passion, and with knowledge that could build off of and connect so smoothly with his own. He considered himself lucky that you had eventually agreed to come along on the trip. Sure, there were likely several plants on the island that could give a person a deadly rash just from glancing at it. But, selfishly, it gave him an excuse to talk with you again, and an opportunity to get closer.

"Oh, well,” Henry felt an awkwardness coming over him. He hadn't given a second thought to what he said to Zora, but it was something you had made some sort of mental note of. A part of him felt proud of that. "It's just the truth, isn't it? What we're doing here is life changing for so many people."

"Of course it is." You smile, eyes still following him. He was too humble for his own good. “I mean, my head is just nonstop spinning with ideas of all the good an island like this could supply. The medicinal properties of all these plants, the healthcare advancements we could make beyond just cardiology. Krebs, or ParkerGenix…” you let out a small, ironic laugh. Your eyes scan, making sure Krebs wasn't close enough to hear the next part. "They haven't said a thing about sharing any of the information we learn from this. Damn shame that healing millions of people is just a side effect to their company making a profit."

He looked at you again, mirroring your smile and slowing in his steps. There was caution in your voice, but a true excitement about the possibilities too. Henry felt that to his core.

There was an internal struggle about just being on this island, and for the reasoning that he was. ParkerGenix was doing a good thing, but Henry was relieved to know you saw right through it too. It meant he had at least one person on this mission that he could truly trust, and he was thrilled that it was you.

“Do you think she’ll change her mind? About the samples?” Henry was curious, did you think Zora had it in her too?

“After that inspirational talk you had with her?” You tease and bump his arm with your elbow. “Who wouldn’t?”

He laughed again, shaking his head adjusting his backpack straps. “One minute you’re saying my speech was perfect, the next it’s used against me?”

“I don’t quite remember calling it perfect…” you squint and purse your lips, playing more into the game.

His smile widened and he turned to you again. “Oh, you absolutely did call it perfect. Don’t chicken out of it now.”

“Maybe so,” you put your hands up in defense. “But it was well said, and the compliment did get me your attention.”

His heartbeat seemed to quicken for just a split second and his smile never faltered. It was always this that got him. A small moment, a subtle comment. It had worked on him. When you called his talk ‘perfect’ you definitely stroked his ego, but because you meant it. And he knew that you believed in that.

“So it was all a ploy?” He jokes with you finally. Might as well pass the time and jump on the opportunity.

“I’m always looking for ways to get your attention, Loomis.” This was less of a joke, but delivered with the same carefree wit.

He gave a final smile before looking ahead towards the group again, hands gently moving aside the various plants out of his path. The subtle back and forth felt good. He had missed this, or at least craved more.

“Well, you’ve got it. What’ll you do with it now?” He grinned at you, glancing over his shoulder as he continued the path.

please send requests 🙏

check out my other henry fic

[rookinthecrownest]

i saw a tiktok from Polygon that stated $80 price tags for triple A titles is not ‘anti consumer’ because it reflects more work/resources/ etc going into games than ever before and i think the accuracy of that sentiment heavily depends on the assumption that the creatives/devs are seeing more profits from these games being more expensive and i simply do not believe that that is the case. Games are more expensive than ever but I don’t think the actual devs/creative team are making more money than ever. In fact with all the recent layoffs at big studios i think the opposite is true. All that profit from higher game prices is going straight into the pockets of the shareholders/ c suite execs. So perpetually raising the price of videogames (which are already ridiculously expensive) is not consumer friendly (especially in a global cost of living crisis) and even if it was, the hardworking people actually making the games are not profiting as much as they should be. the entire premise is so flawed my head hurts if i think about it too much

The success of Clair Obscur also punches a fat whole in that sentiment, because the game is like- what, $50? And has better quality story/gameplay/music/etc than a lot of triple A titles with likely less than 1/3rd of the budget? Games don’t need inflated budgets. Inflated budgets = more money that needs to be recouped to make it profitable. They need a team of passionate devs without corporate overlords micromanaging everything.

thanks for coming to my ted talk

[margaretkart]

It’s honestly ironic how Hollywood and, in general, many foreigners view Greece. To them, it’s just an aesthetic, white marble, blue seas, myths repackaged for entertainment. Meanwhile, actual Greeks are fighting through one of the hardest periods in recent years. People are rioting, demanding justice for a tragic train crash that took lives, while the government sweeps it under the rug. At the same time, neighboring countries are busy trying to claim our ancestors as their own. And yet, here comes Hollywood again, making a movie about our culture with zero Greek representation, zero authenticity, just a product to sell.

It’s frustrating to see people glamourize or defend an industry that doesn’t care about history, accuracy, or the people whose stories they exploit. They care about profit, nothing else. Greeks aren’t just some ancient ruins or myths to be mined for content. We exist, we struggle, and we deserve better than being turned into a marketable fantasy while our real issues are ignored.

[margaretkart]

That's unfortunately very accurate how wrong they are are portraying him :/

He's misunderstood and not be taking seriously to the point of this becoming unbearable 😭. All the characters are complex of course, but he for some reason gets the least respectful treatment in modern times.

Dionysus is perfect for horror. He's perfect at manipulation. He's capable of fighting. He's the embodiment of the primal instincts humans try to hide and helps them get loose. He's also kind and loving, because mind you he knows when to play his cards.

The game simply having not even him BUT also the gods as say that "how dare he is peaceful and not take action" really?? That's very lazy to do it, because the writers didn't care. But that it's harmful to his image because of how influential the game is.

Seeing @sarafangirlart 's post about Kaos made me notice a new trend :

It's slightly better than dumb drunk but still removes the best elements about him: the frenzy, the madness, the terror, the liberation. Also, Dionysus participated in three mythological wars (Gigantomachy), two that he led himself (against Perseus and against India).

Dionysus, as the liberator and against inhibiting structures and figures of authority, immediately enters in conflict with every mortal king he meets (Pentheus, Lycurgus, Proteus, Labdacus, Perseus...) and always DISRUPTS the peace when he comes to their city.

He's not like "Hello my friends, can you worship me please 🥺 ?" His punishments are wild, seriously, some Eldritch horror stuff.

Also his great grandfather is literally ARES, I'm not even joking.

He's literally one of the worst candidates 😂.

Also, in Hades II, it's used as an excuse to remove him from the plot, which made me super upset (maybe the worst decision in the game. Right besides wrecking OdyPen).

For the peaceful god/goddess, choose Hestia, Eirene, Hypnos, Hebe, Asclepius idk, some chill deities that don't like to be involved in fights or exclusively helped people or stayed in the corner doing their own thing. Not the god who has crazy beast women as priestesses.

[bouquetface]

June 11th 2025 - Full Moon in Sag

Personal accuracy depends on the entire chart. Most transits are unlikely to be notable events if personal placements aren’t activated. 

THE WEEK OF THIS MOON CAN BRING CHANGES - big or small but usually small and super notable events.

READ FOR TROPICAL RISING SIGN

Virgo Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 4th H, you or people in the home/family may be making changes. Potential examples:

Changes in the physical environment - you or someone in the home is moving, changes in decor, cleaning, etc.

Changes in family dynamics - arguments are possible esp w/ Leo placements. 

There may be a strong desire for a fresh start. Ex: Tempted to reach out to new people or past people for closure. 

You could be hosting or attending a social event - for most this would likely be with family and/or close friends.

Cancer Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 6th H, you could be making changes to your routine, health and responsibilities. Potential examples: 

Changes in diet like deciding to drink less soda, more water.

Changes in regard to a pet.

Some may have an appointment or other obligation to attend this week. Haircut, pay a ticket, exam, etc.

Leo Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 5th H, you may experience events in regard to creation, children, hobbies, recreational activities. Potential examples:

Making plans for the summer - planning a trip.

You may feel romantic, sentimental and nostalgic this week.

Many may feel action-orientated for some this could be impulsiveness. There is need to go do something/complete something.

Sag Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 1st H, there could be changes to you - your purpose, your relationships, your appearance + identity. Potential examples:

Feeling urged to make changes to your appearance. 

Changes in your relationship to other people - getting closer or desire for distance. Potentially feeling restricted by other people or establishments.

Your communication and/or mindset may learn more toward the taboo, secrets and the past. Yoy may feel reflective, sentimental and nostalgic.

Libra Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 3rd H, there could be changes in regard to your family/siblings, community, mindset, transportation, etc. Potential examples:

Some may feel like taking a trip - driving out to a beach, lake or park. 

Communication in regard to career. You may gain extra responsibilities - new job role, new routine, etc.

Be cautious for arguments esp w fire signs. For some, you may be sitting back and hearing about some drama going down.

Gemini Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 7th H, you could experience changes in your relationships - platonic, family, romantic or business. Your friends could be making big changes but somehow the attention is on you. Most likely you come to resolution, you and the other people in your life are likely able to be on the same page.

You could be sharing news about the big changes coming in your life. Like telling people, your moving, your seeing someone, etc.

Soon (or currently), you may feel the need to restrict your friend groups. This is necessarily breaking up but soon you may desire more boundaries.

Your mind is likely on money and career. You may becoming less interested in the past and your home life. This is a good time for you to begin to shine. You can make more profit in the coming year esp if you put yourself out there.

Aries Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 9th H, you may find changes in your higher beliefs and experiences like travel and education. Potential examples:

You could be getting rid of outdated beliefs that don't serve you anymore.

You could be celebrating something major for yourself or someone else - wedding, graduation, child, etc.

You could be planning a trip. You could be getting interested in learning something new. You could be learning as much as you can before making a new change like moving somewhere new or purchasing a new product.

Taurus Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 8th H, your attention could be drawn to your blind spots or secrets. You may find changes in things relating to money and other resoruces.

This could be a good time to sign contracts.

Communicate your feelings and plans.

Capricron Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 12th H, this moon may not be notable. You may have a deep sleep or a restless nights this week depending on how your chart is aspected by the moon.

You may be encouraged esp by family or women to take better care of yourself.

Aqua Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 11th H, you could see changes in your social networks, online and with your long-term goals. Potential examples:

Planning or attending a social event. Going to a spa or something else relaxing would be beneficial.

Crossing something off your bucket list.

Fights within your social circles - you are unlikely to be apart of it.

Pisces Risings:

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 10th H, there could be changes in your public image, career and outside life. Potential examples:

Changes in career or job roles.

Changes in how you are seen. You may not be aware of the changes but people may begin to see your differently.

You could encounter tension with authority figures in your life. Your desires and their desires may not match.

Scorpio Risings

If you have Pluto or other planets near 20 degrees in Sag, this is likely to bring a notable event.

This occurs in your 2nd H, you could see changes in wealth, assets and family. Potential examples:

Credit card expires soon. Making a big purchase.

Starting something that leads to a new source of income. Ending something that ends a source of income.

[mayu-otome]

Drink, Get Drunk, And Drown - Alfons Sylvatica

These translations are solely for entertainment and not profit. Accuracy is not 100% guaranteed. MDNI

(quick note that English and Japanese are not my native language and there might be some errors and mistakes in my grammar and wording in the translation)

On the way back from accompanying a mission to a warehouse suspected of selling drugs.

Roger: You have some nerve to use a person as a human shield.

Alfons: I'm putting to good use, those muscles you're so proud of. shouldn't you be grateful towards me instead?

The two started fighting.

(It all started when Alfons used Roger as a shield against a gun-wielding man...)

Alfons: Can you not come any closer? Joining shoulders with a filthy man like you is giving me the chills.

Roger: Young lady, say something too.

Kate: .… I agree with Roger on this one!

Alfons: How cruel! You're disregarding your lover and agreeing with that man's opinion!

Kate: You shouldn’t use people as shields in the first place!

Alfons knocks Roger arm off and wraps his arm around my waist.

Alfons: Then we'll be around here. Let's go, Kate.

Roger: Hey, you're not planning on running away, are you?

Roger: I risked my life to protect you. I guess it makes sense to treat me to a glass of alcohol

Alfons: Huh? Why do I have to treat you?

Roger: Generally you—

(If things continue like this, we won't get anywhere. When it comes to this...!)

Kate: I’ll treat you!

Alfons & Roger: …..Huh?

…

Alfons had a disgusted look on his face as Roger gulped down his beer.

Alfons: You've finished drinking. Please go home.

Roger: Of course I’m still going to drink

Alfons: You're always drinking the same thing. seriously, you're no fun at all.

Roger: What’s wrong with drinking what you like?

Kate: Alfons, you seem to know a lot about Roger.

Alfons: This is a well-known fact that everyone in Crown knows, but it’s not even worth remembering.

Roger: I've known Al for a long time.

Alfons: I'm very dissatisfied.

Roger: I think of you as a friend.

Roger: Kate, if something ever happens with this guy, I'll be your listening ear however much you need.

Alfons: In your case, it’s probably not enough to just listen.

Roger: I mean, the little lady’s face is quite my type.

Kate: Eh….!

Alfons: What are you embarrassed about? Don’t tell me….. You’re planning to cheat on me in public?

Kate: T-this is because of the alcohol!

Alfons: Heh….. I’ll leave it at that.

Suddenly, a joyful voice rises from the seat in the back.

When I looked over, I saw two men lying face down on a table with many glasses on it.

Alfons: Most likely they were having a showdown to see who could drink more.

Roger chuckled upon hearing those words

Roger chuckled upon hearing those words, seemingly having thought of an idea.

Roger: Let's do it too, Al.

Alfons: No thanks, Please do it alone.

Roger: You're not in the mood, then—

Roger: How about betting on the young lady?

Kate: Me?!

Alfons: What ridiculous thing did you just say?

Roger: If I win, I'll spend the night drinking with the young lady. If you win, I'll pay for the drinks and get out of here.

Alfons: I don't want to have anything to do with you

Roger: Are you afraid of losing to me?

Alfons: —Huh?

Alfons: ... I get it. Let's do it.

Kate: You're really going to!?

Alfons: It's okay. I won't lose to this idiot.

Leaving me surprised at this unexpected turn of events, the two of them took a quick sip from their glasses.

Alfons: You can still drink... please just hurry up and pass out.

Roger: You're not already at your limit?

Alfons: Please don't take your jokes too far.

(Roger is strong. Alfons is a stronger drinker too.)

(Still…..)

His hair is disheveled behind his ears, his reddish cheeks and unusually loose lips doubling his sex appeal.

(As expected, this might be violating the rules.)

As I’m exposed to the sex appeal of my drunken lover, our eyes meet.

Alfons: ....What kind of face are you making?

Kate: eh?

Alfons: I'm leaving

Alfons stood up and grabbed my arm, forcing me to stand.

Kate: We're still in the middle of a showdown…

Alfons slammed the money down on the table and glared at Roger.

Alfons: Were you satisfied?

Roger: I'm satisfied because I found out that you're more excited than I imagined. Kate, next time let's have a drink when Al isn't around.

Alfons: ...It seems you really want to be killed.

Roger: Haha! If you try to kill me, I'll shoot you back.

Alfons: …. I’m leaving

(This is the first time I've seen you so drunk...)

His gait was shaky and unsteady….

(Besides, he’s usually talk a lot, but…. he’s been quiet the whole time.)

(They say that alcohol reflects a person's true feelings, but I'm surprised that Alfons is so quiet.)

…

Kate: Kyaa!

The moment I entered the room, I was pushed onto the bed.

He got between my legs and hung over me so that I couldn't move, before stealing my lips.

Kate: ….Nn, Al

Alfons: ….You looked incredibly naughty just a little while ago

His tongue slipped into my mouth.

Alfons: You got excited seeing me drunk? What a pervert.

Kate: That—!

The spilled breath was hot.

The ribbon of her blouse was untied and her underwear was roughly pulled down.

Kate: Ah!

The moment the red ripe tip was played, a sweet voice came out.

Alfons: ……

He usually says provocative words here, but for some reason, he just kept attacking me relentlessly.

Kate: Not there—!

My legs instinctively tried to close in pleasure, but were blocked by his hand.

Alfons: ...Isn't it faster than usual?

Kate: Because, ah!

A long finger slowly enters through the gap in her shorts.

Kate: It’s hot….

I feel like I'm going crazy just from the heat of the fingertips,

(Because Alfons is silent….!)

The lewd sound of water echoed throughout the quiet room, and my aroused body came to an abrupt climax.

Kate: Nn !

Alfons silently put his hands on his belt.

Kate: Al—-

Alfons: ... Seriously, what was going on with that man?

Kate: Eh?

(That man is Roger, right?)

With an irritated look, he threw his hair back and gently stroked my cheek.

Alfons: I'd never give you to him.

Kate: … Are you perhaps jealous?

Alfons: …. What if I say yes?

Kate: Ah…..

Alfons: It's fine, so please just let me hold you.

I gasped at the warmth that replaced the fingers that smoothly left my cheeks.

Alfons: I love you because I'll be causing a big scar that'll someday drive you into despair.

She drowns in the pleasure he gives her and becomes intoxicated with him.

<The next day>

When I opened my eyes to the glare, I found myself in his arms.

(Innocence sleeping face…..)

Just as I was about to reach out to touch his cheek.

Alfons: Will you give me a kiss?

Kate: You’re awake !?

Alfons: I’m not awake. Look, my eyes are still closed, right?

Kate: You’re already awake.

Ignoring him, who was reluctant to open his eyes, I tried to get up, but he grabbed my arm and pulled me back.

Alfons: Let's go back to sleep. I drank too much and I'm really tired.

Kate: …. I think I'll go get some hangover medicine from Roger.

Alfons: When did you become such a bad girl, always mentioning other men's names in bed?

In an instant, I couldn’t help but laugh at the furrowed brows.

Alfons: What are you laughing at?

Kate: Fufu... that's because I thought that even you'd get jealous, Alfons.

He let out a sigh as I laughed.

Alfons: What if I say yes?

I put my arms around his neck, trying to answer the same lines as last night.

Kate: I’m happy

Kate: And... I was a little happy to see you different from usual.

Alfons: …. You seriously are something else.

When he finally opened his eyes, he lowered his eyebrows in annoyance, smiled, and kissed my forehead.

Alfons: You really are an idiot.

[mlmxreader]

accusing Jurassic Park of spreading "misinformation" has to genuinely be the funniest thing ever bc it shows a VERY CLEAR misunderstanding (read: purposeful ignorance) that the books & films were never supposed to be 1000% accurate and that they're supposed to be abt how capitalistic greed will create Frankenstein's Lizard for the sake of profit and as an excuse to exploit both people and man-made animals.

if you want accuracy and scientific fact, go watch a modern documentary created by working with paleontologists (like Prehistoric Planet), not the fucking Jurassic films.

[dailyrothko]

Scans ( a little long)

When I ask people not to steal my scans I assure you it has nothing to do with my ego. I have relationships with a number of people that trust me to provide full credits and copyrights and supervise, as much as possible, how things are used. And it gets a little complex, like some people will give me a photo I can only use on instagram. I have to honor these agreements.

And, Rothko paintings are copyrighted so, unlike some artists, if you make tee shirts or use it in a movie or something , it's actually illegal (without permission) They are not going to come after you for casual use of you own, but I know of many examples where people were hit with a copyright notice for trying to profit in the work.

It took me a long time to build these relationships and get all of these scans, including many i have done myself. I gave myself this Rothko job I do, and because of that I didn't have background to give me things or answer questions. It was only after years of doing it that people started to reach out to me in a bigger way and help.

The art world is strange, I was talking to a museum curator recently and there several questions I had that I was told they were not at liberty to answer. In the case of Rothko, there's nothing really cloak and dagger about it, it's just the family (who I think are great) fought really hard for these rights and spend a lot of time trying to control how the work is used and seen. It's a good thing because we get things like the Paris exhibit which took an insane amount of planning, loans, insurance etc. All the paintings had to be inspected before they were shipped over seas, in case damage was done to them over there. These paintings are BIG and in the hands of many different people, so it really took tons of effort and (sadly) money to do it, but it's something like (can't recall exactly) 179 paintings. The biggest Rothko show since 1978.

People on tumblr do sometimes (as we all know) take stuff from here or from my other social media accounts and I know it's typical social media behavior, as people like the credit and notes to their own blog, but I mention this now because I have some things coming up that almost no one has ever seen and I don't want to lose this privilege because I won't be able to show you cool stuff and big scans.

So, sorry for the ponderousness, I just thought a little background might explain that I'm not just being grumpy about it. I think people may see it as "It's the internet get over yourself" but I honestly feel a responsibility to do the best I can for people following these accounts and I am just trying to keep doing it and hopefully, expand as I go.

This blog started on out tumblr and it was the support of all of you that made me continue it, I will be 10 years in July. I can't take a lot of credit for it, it's not my art. My only idea was the once a day aspect. However, I try to do my homework and striving for accuracy is part of that, including copyrights and credits.

So thanks for everything too, people participating in this has been very valuable and educational for me.

[dark-frosted-heart]

The Beast's User Manual - Clavis (His POV)

CLAVIS YOU ABSOLUTE CUTIE

As usual, can’t guarantee 100% accuracy on this

In front of my fiancee, I’ve  always considered myself to be an elegant, magnificent, joyful, and loving gentleman.

If Emma feels even an ounce of unhappiness, it’s the loving gentleman’s disgrace—

I plan to keep working hard at it every day.

--

(It’s that time already…)

I’ve been holed up in my room dealing with documents for several hours already—

After the usual breakfast with Emma, briefing with servants, waking Chevalier up, time slipped away as I got to work. 

As I moved to relax my body, which had become stiff after sitting in a chair for so long, a wave of sleepiness hit me.

(Perhaps I’ve been pushing myself to hard lately)

(It’s been a fruitful time, but I still haven’t gotten enough sleep)

(I have a meeting later…I can afford a short break)

I stumbled over to the sofa and sat down, sensing that I’m at my limit with the yawn I let out.

I removed my ascot tie, loosened my collar, and lied down.

(Still, the situation’s calmed down considerably…)

~~ Flashback ~~

Clavis: Several jewelry dealers are scheduled to have dinner with us today. We’re having a small party, but what do you think will happen when we show off our love?

Emma: I think you can get the message across without having to show off.

Clavis: Yes, they’ll definitely pay us tribute. At any rate, the purpose of the company’s for me to arrange export destinations. I wonder how much jewelry will be collected to gain my favor. I’ll arrange a deal with the one whose jewelry best suits your taste as an honor to the winner.

~~ Flashback End ~~

Originally, the party with the jewelers was a strategy for Emma to gain footing.

(Jewelers' customers are mainly nobles…) 

(The information they see and hear spreads among other nobles)

(The more favor shown, the better the nobles’ attitudes toward Emma will be)

(Nothing wrong with taking measures)

(I also wanted to use that as an excuse to show off my cute fiancee)

~~ Flashback ~~

Merchant: I’ve heard rumors, but it looks like the real deal, Your Highness.

Clavis: Yes. Go home with that image of our wonderful bond seared into your memory.

Merchant: As you say. However, Your Highness must have a lot on your mind…

Clavis: Oh, what sharp ears you have?

Merchant: In our line of work, you’ll need to be well-informed or you’ll miss out on huge profits. His highness comes from a prestigious line that has served the Michel family for generations… I’ve heard that the head of the family is making some kind of move.

Clavis: What, it’s just some stubborn old man trying to play games with me. However, it’s not my intention for my fiancee to hear about this.

Merchant: Of course I’m aware of that. There’s already been rumors going around about Your Highness and the head of the family… People always want fresh rumors. I’ll do my small part to help. This is not just a quarrel between Your Highness and the head of the family… The huge profits coming from paying tribute to Lady Emma are what we merchants are after.

Clavis: Haha, you’re very competent. I also like to choose my business partners carefully, but I think I can work well with you. Can I expect great things…?

~~ End flashback ~~

(That party went well. Doesn’t look like Emma noticed anything was amiss)

(After all, there’s always troubling rumors when it comes to women related to royalty…)

(I can’t forgive such rumors that would wipe Emma’s smile away)

~~ Flashback ~~

Emma: Mhmm…All these sweets are just to my taste!

Emma: Their signature “Rabbit and Leopard love explosion cake” in particular is the tastiest…

Clavis: I see, I see. It was worth asking the owner for some privileges as an investor.

Emma: Ah, so it was Clavis’ idea after all.

Clavis: Haha. I didn’t think you’d notice. Your power of love never ceases to amaze me.

Emma: You’re just easy to understand. Hehe…I’m really fortunate.

Clavis: Hm?

Emma: With you, there’s always something going on every day, but I’ve never felt unhappy. Thank you always, Clavis.

~~ Flashback end ~~

(It’s my duty to protect that smile…)

(Both as a gentleman and as her fiance. I don’t want to be a useless man that causes her trouble)

Suddenly, my eyes landed on a rabbit plushie I had left on the table.

With this I could use as a substitute for Emma for when she’s not by my side.

I reached out for the rabbit and hugged it close as I fell asleep.

I’d be dead if anyone were to see me like this, but this room’s a safe space protected by a lock and key.

(Emma…)

(I wonder if you still feel fortunate at this moment…)

(...)

(...)

(...Mn…)

???: -vis…

(Wha…I think I hear…something)

(No…I’m still half asleep)

(Is it time…for the meeting already?)

(But…the bell hasn’t rung yet…)

Clavis: Nn…It’s not…time yet…

(I’ve been pulling a lot of all-nighters…lately…)

(Outside the rumors and the investments…there’s still more to do…)

(And…huh…)

(...)

Clavis: *yawn* I’m…sleepy…I’ve had enough, good night…

(I don’t want to…wake up…)

(...)

(...Mn…)

(That…scent…)

(Smells like Emma…)

(If…)

(If anyone could enter this room…it’d be Emma…)

(...)

(?!)

It took only a moment for me to wake up from my nap.

When I opened my eyes, I saw Emma right there, smiling at me.

Clavis: …

Emma: G-good morning…

Clavis: …

Emma: Are you still half asleep?

The moment I realized what was going on, I got to my feet.

I hurriedly grabbed my ascot tie hanging on the back of the couch and composed myself as I tied it.

(Damn it, I’m such an idiot…)

(I gave Emma the key to my room)

(If Cyril came calling for me and I didn’t respond, then he would’ve asked Emma for help…)

I casually stuff the rabbit into a corner of the sofa.

Clavis: Emma…

Emma: Yes?

Clavis: What did you see?

Emma: Your sleeping face.

Clavis: Did I say anything strange?

Emma: You said something cute.

Clavis: …I see …

I couldn’t put on my usual smile and hid my face with a hand.

(I talked in my sleep, and she probably saw the rabbit too…)

(...I feel like dying)

Somehow, my face felt hot enough to boil water.

Emma: Are you, by any chance, embarrassed?

Clavis: Haha, there’s no way. It’s just that, you know… Yes, I thought it strange for you to sneak into my room without permission.

Emma: Hehe…You prank me often.

I thought I’d return the favor.

Clavis: I see…you got me

(I never thought someone would try to get revenge at this point…)

(My cool front’s now ruined, isn’t it?)

(Does she think I’m cute or something…? It’s okay, really)

When the heat somewhat subsided, I removed my hand from my face.

Emma’s eyes weren’t filled with disappointmentーThey were sparkling.

Emma: And it’s my dream to become a Clavis master.

Clavis: Hm? What’s with that amusing title?

Emma: It’s a title reserved for those that you know ins and outs, and can hold the reins.

It was a great learning experience today to see Clavis after you woke up from your nap.

Clavis: …

(If you say so, then you’ve already become a master)

(Because you’re the only one that has me completely wrapped around your finger)

Emma: By the way, Clavis. Here.

Emma pointed at a spot above my ear and I quickly smoothed that spot down.

I felt the bounciness of my bedhead and wanted to jump into a hole.

Emma’s shoulders shake and she looks down as if she couldn’t hold back anymore.

(Well if Emma’s enjoying herself then it’s not so badー)

(ーNOT. I need to fix this as soon as possible)

Clavis: That’s a good attitude, my dear fiancee. I like your courage to prank me as part of your journey to becoming a master.

However…

I grabbed her hand and sat her on the sofa before pinning her down.

In the same way, I’ve mastered Emma.

I think about her all hours of the day.

In this case…I could think of one or two tricks.

Clavis: You should be more careful.

It’s too naive to be satisfied with a prank. You have to expect payback.

I kissed Emma’s forehead before sliding my lips down to her cheek and then jaw, turning her face a bright red.

(Good…)

Continuing my attack, I placed a hand on her smooth leg and let it crawl upward.

I fiddled with her skirt, which had hiked up from me pushing her down.

Emma: C-Clavis…It’s almost time for the meeting!

Clavis: I know.

Emma: But your hands are still wandering…!

Clavis: Thanks to you, I woke up ahead of schedule. I have plenty of time to tease you.

(If I want to call myself an elegant, magnificent, joyful, and loving gentleman, I’ll need to forget what just happened)

Any protest is silenced by a kiss.

This usually sweeps Emma awayーor so it would seem.

However, just as our lips parted, my cheeks were caught between her hands and pulled back in.

(Wha…)

Emma took the lead and kissed me. It wasn’t a sweet peck, but an adult kind with a lot of tongue.

I was taken aback, not expecting this kind of retaliation.

Emma: Don’t underestimate me.

I’ve been poisoned by you to the point that Cyril side-eyes me.

(...)

(Ah…Forget it)

(In front of such a lovely thing, my mistakes are not important)

Clavis: When did you get so good at handling me?

Emma: Hehe, does that mean you approve?

Clavis: Yes, I’ve lost.

(Emma is so much better than me)

Emma: You can leave yourself to me.

With Emma, my fatigue’s washed away by happiness.

(At the end of the day…I’m working for myself, not my lovely fiancee.

(To make this happiness eternal…)

(Let’s go the extra mile)

[vague-humanoid]

A far-right activist group that is doxxing college students who engage in pro-Palestinian protests revealed that it is funded by top Republican political donors and nonprofits backed by wealthy business leaders, a tax return reviewed by CNBC shows.

The group, Accuracy in Media, publicly disclosed on its federal tax return a list of donors who combined to contribute nearly $1.9 million to the tax-exempt nonprofit between May 2022 and April of last year.

The contributors listed on the tax return include billionaire Republican megadonor Jeff Yass, who Accuracy in Media said gave it $1 million.

The family foundation of shipping supply magnate Richard Uihlein is also identified on the tax return, which says the Ed Uihlein Family Foundation gave $10,000. The Milstein Family Foundation, which is run by real estate executive and Republican donor Adam Milstein, gave another $10,000, the group reported to the IRS.

According to its tax return, Accuracy in Media said it received $15,000 from the Coors brewing family’s charitable foundation. The Adolph Coors Foundation is chaired by former Molson Coors executive Peter H. Coors, according to the foundation’s latest tax records.

Yass, Uihlein, Milstein and Coors have all donated regularly to Republican campaigns over the past decade.

But Yass stands apart from the others. The co-founder of options trading powerhouse Susquehanna International Group and his wife Janine are the biggest political donors of the 2024 election. So far, Yass and his wife have contributed $70 million to dozens of Republican candidates and committees, according to the nonpartisan campaign finance database OpenSecrets.

Much of the cardboard and paper goods strewn about our homes — the mail-order boxes and grocery store bags — are sold by a single private company, with its name, Uline, stamped on the bottom. Few Americans know that a multibillion-dollar fortune made on those ubiquitous products is now fueling election deniers and other far-right candidates across the country.

Dick and Liz Uihlein of Illinois are the largest contributors to Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano, who attended the Jan. 6 rally and was linked to a prominent antisemite, and have given to Jim Marchant, the Nevada Secretary of State nominee who says he opposed the certification of Joe Biden’s election victory in 2020. They are major funders to groups spreading election falsehoods, including Restoration of America, which, according to an internal document obtained by ProPublica, aims to “get on God’s side of the issues and stay there” and “punish leftists.”

[margaretkart]

The Exclusion of Greek Actors in Greek Mythology Films: An Issue in Hollywood Casting

The dismissal of Greek actors from playing roles in films about their own history and mythology is a recurring issue that often goes unnoticed or is simply excused. The comments in the provided image reflect a mindset that normalizes this exclusion, either due to ignorance or indifference.

1. Hollywood’s Profit-Driven Casting and the Erasure of Authenticity

Hollywood functions as a business, and the primary concern of major studios is maximizing profits. This often means prioritizing well-known, bankable actors over authenticity. While financial success is an understandable goal, it becomes problematic when it leads to the systematic erasure of actors from the very cultures being represented.

A major Hollywood production about Greek mythology will almost always feature a cast composed primarily of American, British, or Australian actors. The argument in favor of this approach is that these actors are "recognizable" and will attract audiences. However, this logic only holds because Hollywood itself creates and reinforces this system. If Greek actors were given opportunities in major films, they too could become well-known on an international level. The cycle of exclusion ensures that Greek actors remain unknown outside of Greece, making it impossible for them to reach a point where they are considered "bankable."

2. The Hypocrisy of Selective Authenticity

Hollywood often claims to prioritize historical or cultural accuracy when it suits them, but fails to apply the same standard to casting. For example, a Greek mythology film may feature meticulously researched armor and settings, yet the actors speaking and portraying these legendary figures have no connection to the culture that birthed these stories.

When other countries produce films about their national history or mythology, they naturally cast actors from their own nation. French films about Joan of Arc, Japanese samurai films, or Chinese historical dramas all prioritize actors from their respective cultures. Yet, when it comes to Greece, this standard is dismissed. Why is it acceptable for Greek figures to be portrayed exclusively by non-Greek actors? This reveals a deeper issue: Hollywood does not value Greek representation in a way that it does for other cultures with strong cinematic industries.

3. Dismissing Greek Actors Due to Lack of "Fame" is a Circular Argument

One of the comments in the image states, “A movie with this budget is NOT going to cast a bunch of actors that are only famous in Greece. That would be box office poison.” This argument is flawed for several reasons.

First, actors from other countries have often gained international recognition precisely because Hollywood took a chance on them. Spanish, Mexican, Danish, and South Korean actors have all managed to break into Hollywood because they were given the opportunity. Pedro Pascal, Antonio Banderas, and Mads Mikkelsen, for example, were not widely known in Hollywood before getting roles in major productions. The same chance is rarely given to Greek actors, which keeps them from gaining international recognition.

Second, casting unknown or lesser-known actors has never stopped films from succeeding. Many successful films have been led by relatively unknown actors who rose to fame through their roles. The argument that Greek actors shouldn’t be considered simply because they aren’t already famous ignores how fame is created in the first place—through opportunity.

4. Indifference as a Form of Complicity

Another issue evident in the comments is the attitude of “It doesn’t matter, the director will cast who he wants, just deal with it.” This dismissive mindset contributes to the problem. People who do not experience cultural erasure firsthand may not see the issue, but that does not mean it does not exist.

Many defenders of Hollywood’s casting choices are often those who are unaffected by these decisions. They do not have to watch their own history be continuously told through the faces and voices of others. It is easy to say, “I don’t know any Greek actors,” but that is precisely the issue—Greek actors are not given the chance to be known. The lack of familiarity is not a justification; it is a symptom of an exclusionary system.

If a Greek production were to make a film about Norse mythology but cast only Greek actors, there would likely be outrage from international audiences. The same applies to other cultural stories. Yet, when it comes to Greece, the expectation is that Greeks should simply accept being excluded from their own narratives.

5.

The solution is not to suggest that only Greek actors should play Greek roles, but rather to recognize that Greek actors are systematically excluded from even being considered. There is no reason why Hollywood productions about Greek mythology cannot include Greek actors in major roles. Doing so would not harm box office performance—it would only enhance authenticity and representation.

Studios must take responsibility for broadening their casting choices, and audiences should demand more authentic representation. Change starts with awareness, and the first step is recognizing that dismissing the problem does not make it disappear, it only allows it to continue.