#ReVision Eye Supplement

[ginnysgraffiti]

could i ask for some hcs about asking Patrick to sit down with you to tweak your morning and nighttime routines, so you A) don't interrupt (because he probably HATES it when he's interrupted from his skincare or whatever) B) do it with him, because it feels like bonding. thank youuu xx

here we areeee!

PATRICK BATEMAN x yn.

skincare head-canons (i actually put so much thought into this one):

first, the logistics.

- you bring it up one night while he’s applying his tenth layer of post-shower serums, shirtless and glowing like a demon in a YSL Homme ad.

- at first, he blinks. “what do you mean—tweak?”

(as if there’s a flaw in the concept of routine at all. as if he didn’t plan his week two months ago.)

- but when you explain that you want to:

A) avoid interrupting him,

B) do it together,

he pauses. thinks. and then—“show me your current schedule. i’ll revise it.”

he literally opens his planner. and creates a shared one for you. with colored time blocks. for “joint skincare.” you feel like you just got engaged.

the morning routine — updated.

- you now wake up 12 minutes earlier than before.

you brush teeth together. not in the couples-y way — more like synchronized swimming with matching toothbrushes.

- he watches your technique. critiques it. corrects it.

“you’re using far too much pressure. you’re going to cause gum recession.”

- he replaces your cleanser with one of his. without asking. “this one’s better. i checked the ingredients.”

- you apply eye cream. he taps the corner of your eye, gently, and says “wrong finger. use your middle finger. it’s the right one if you want to apply the perfect pressure.”

(you swear he shivered saying it. man is vibrating on a skincare frequency only he understands.)

- you sit on the bed with a coffee, and he comes over to hand you your supplements — already counted. placed in a tiny crystal dish.

“vitamin d. magnesium. you forgot yesterday.”

and then kisses your shoulder like it’s a holy ritual.

the nighttime routine.

- everything is candle-lit. the apartment smells like bergamot and focus.

- you’re allowed to talk before cleansing. not during. not after. “this is the quiet part.”

(you whisper now. it’s like church.)

- he insists on doing your serum for you sometimes. his hands are steady, exacting — but soft, reverent in a way he’d never admit.

- if you skip a step?

“absolutely not.”

he physically steers you back to the mirror.

“you will not waste the niacinamide barrier i just helped restore.”

- you share a silk robe now. one robe. it rotates between you. you did not agree to this. you’re not sure he noticed. but it smells like him and he likes when you wear it.

(he stares. subtly. and then not-so-subtly.)

he keeps a literal checklist.

- in his planner:

“7:05 p.m. — retinol application (together)”

“9:00 p.m. — teeth / floss / affirmations”

(he insists you say something productive out loud every night — even if it’s “my skin barrier is intact.”)

- if you forget something, he gently places the missing product on your pillow.

like a warning.

like a love letter.

and he loves that you wanted this.

- it makes him feel trusted. important. chosen.

patrick bateman, who never thought someone would ask to share his most obsessive ritual, now builds space in it for you.

- he doesn’t say “i love you.” but he does say:

“don’t forget SPF tomorrow. you’re mine. i won’t have you damaged.” and you get it.

in his language, that is love.

[captainxtra]

Major June 26th Political Update!

So, Paxton vs Free Speech Coalition and Birthright Citizenship + National Injunction cases will be settled most certainly tomorrow.

Keep an eye and ear out.

------

Now onto the Spending Bill news!

Here is a combined summary of all the updates from the Politico articles I checked:

The Republican-led "megabill" (also referred to as the "One Big Beautiful Bill") is facing numerous challenges and undergoing significant revisions due to rulings by Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough and internal disagreements within the GOP. Republicans are pushing to pass this comprehensive domestic policy bill—which includes tax, defense, energy, immigration, and health care provisions—before a self-imposed July 4 deadline, using the budget reconciliation process to bypass a Democratic filibuster.

Key Challenges and Parliamentarian Rulings:

Medicaid Provisions: The parliamentarian has dealt a major blow to the GOP's health care plans by ruling that several key Medicaid provisions cannot pass with a simple majority. This includes a plan to reduce Medicaid costs by cracking down on state provider taxes, which was expected to generate substantial savings, and proposals to exclude undocumented residents from Medicaid. These rulings have created an estimated $250 billion budgetary shortfall for Republicans.

Civil Service and Pension Reform: Initial proposals to restructure the federal workforce, such as giving federal employees an "at-will" designation and billing unions for official activities, were ruled out of order by the parliamentarian. Republicans are now exploring changes to their pension reform plan, proposing to increase federal employees' retirement contributions to 15.6 percent (from 9.4 percent) to help fund the megabill, though members of Congress, their staff, and federal law enforcement would be exempt. Democrats and unions strongly oppose these changes.

CFPB Funding: Senate Banking Republicans are proposing to cap the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) funding at 6.5 percent of the Federal Reserve's operating budget, a reduction from the current 12 percent. An initial attempt to eliminate CFPB funding entirely was deemed ineligible. This new proposal awaits parliamentarian approval.

AI Moratorium: The parliamentarian has requested Senator Ted Cruz rewrite a proposed 10-year moratorium on enforcing state artificial intelligence (AI) laws, clarifying its scope of funding. While the measure is tied to a new $500 million fund for AI infrastructure, concerns remain that it could implicitly affect the entire $42 billion broadband program. The AI moratorium has also created divisions within the Republican party.

"Revenge Tax": Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has asked lawmakers to remove a projected $52 billion "revenge tax" from the megabill, stating it is no longer necessary due to a "new understanding" with other developed countries regarding a global tax agreement, where central taxes will not apply to U.S. companies.

Overruling Parliamentarian: Despite calls from some conservative Republicans to do so, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has stated that the Senate will not move to overrule Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, emphasizing the importance of preserving Senate norms.

Approved Provisions:

SNAP Plan: The parliamentarian has approved a modified version of the Republican plan to shift some costs of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) onto states. This is a significant win for Republicans, as it allows them to maintain a crucial $41 billion spending cut for the bill.

Internal Republican Divisions & Negotiations:

Medicaid Moderates: The proposed reduction of provider taxes in Medicaid expansion states is facing a "Medicaid-fueled mutiny" from moderate senators like Susan Collins, who find the proposed $15 billion rural hospital stabilization fund "inadequate." Some are threatening to block floor debate without more clarity on Medicaid changes.

SALT Deduction: Blue-state Republicans have rejected a Treasury offer to raise the cap on the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction to $40,000, calling it "unrealistic." This remains a key unresolved issue.

Public Land Sales: Five House Republicans have declared a "red line" against including public land sales in the megabill, threatening to vote against it. They view it as a "grave mistake" and a "poison pill." This provision also faces strong Senate opposition.

Leadership Meetings & Deadlines:

Senate Majority Leader John Thune met with President Donald Trump at the White House as Republicans work against their self-imposed July 4 deadline. There is skepticism among some in the Senate GOP about whether they can get the bill to the President by this deadline. An initial vote to begin debate on the bill is now not expected before Saturday.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly (D) anticipates that Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), despite his objections to certain bill provisions, will ultimately vote with his party due to pressure from the comprehensive nature of the megabill.

The combination of parliamentarian rulings, internal Republican dissent, and complex negotiations across various policy areas is making the passage of the "megabill" a challenging and fluid process.

------

It seems that the bill is still being worked on so contact your Senators on troublesome provisions, reminding them to invoke the Byrd Rule against troublesome provisions should a procedural vote come before a new text is released.

General Page to call on the bill:

Page to call against Section 203, the provision that targets courts by requiring an expensive bond be payed to sue the government:

Page on AI regulation Ban:

------

Oh and congrats to Zohran Mamdani!

[thydungeongal]

You know, I always get a tear in my eyes from "BUT WHAT ABOUT WAFFLES" follow-ups.

Not the *initial* response, everyone makes mistakes. I mean the second, equally tone-deaf follow-up.

On that note, do you know about about Holmes Basic, because it's one of those editions people always bring up but never elaborate on.

So Holmes Basic was, to my knowledge, the first attempt at making a Basic version of D&D. It basically took the rules and structure of the original game plus some things from its supplements and sought to create a simplified, more coherent version of the game.

I have not read the game in full but my understanding is that by its rules it is much closer to 0D&D plus supplements than either AD&D or B/X (which was effectively a revision and expansion of Holmes Basic). For example, Dwarf, Elf and Halfling were not presented as classes like in B/X, but neither did they have all the options available to them as in AD&D.

Holmes Basic was also very much meant to be an introductory game that would lead players into AD&D. It only had three character levels and since there were no Expert rules yet it was expected that people would shift to AD&D, and the rules were chock full of references to it.

It is a very interesting version of the game, and while 0D&D does have its charms Gygax also was in great need of an editor, and Holmes Basic is a really good and coherent game which you could easily expand upon with 0D&D and its supplements.

[vidreview]

VIDREV: "NO CGI is really just INVISIBLE CGI" by The Movie Rabbit Hole

[originally posted march 19th 2024]

like a lot of folks, i've grown weary of the preponderance of CGI in Hollywood flicks these days. it's all but a cultural tradition at this point to watch John Carpenter's The Thing, sigh wistfully at the goopy silicone animatronics, and say "man, you couldn't make anything like this today." the Marvel/Disney machine has done a lot of heavy lifting to engender this perspective, particularly in the cape department where every aspect of the film is under intense and non-negotiable executive revision until quite literally days before theatrical release (as was the case with Marvel's The Marvels). it doesn't help that this shift has a lot less to do with what's best for any given movie, and a hell of a lot more to do with the lack of unionization in the visual effects industries making them a readily exploitable source of labor. in such an environment, films that nevertheless lean on practical effects are enticing (and, quite often, demonstrably better) enough that we'll sing their praises to the point of hyperbole.

enter Jonas of The Movie Rabbit Hole, here with a genuinely essential series of video essays to slap some sense into that hyperbole and bring us all back down to earth.

one of the more important directors for the development of unobtrusive CGI is David Fincher. i have my fair share of issues with his films, but credit where it's due: they're constantly pushing technology in ways that you absolutely would not expect. there's a crane shot at the start of The Social Network that couldn't be shot with a crane for safety reasons, so instead it was stitched together in post from footage taken on multiple 4K cameras at once. a shocking majority of the blood you'll see in his movies is CGI. the praise i've portioned for his recent films, even as i find him sort of a fundamentally anti-human director, is that he understands that visual effects work best as a supplement to existing footage, rather than a pure replacement.

i share all this to underline my use of the word "essential" in describing this series. i worked in film for a few years, i went to film school, i try to understand the production process as pragmatically as possible. i am under no illusions that Christopher Nolan flicks or the John Wick movies are totally practical. i'm not an anti-CGI evangelist! and yet, even then, i had NO idea just how wrongheaded i still was on the subject until i watched these videos.

Jonas brings 18 years of visual effects experience to bear on a series that feels very much like him trying to settle an argument he's been having for about as long. he has countless examples of films praised for their lack of CGI that relied heavily on their CGI, using the demo reels of effects houses as the smoking gun. Jonas speaks with a plain matter-of-fact-ness that's bolstered just so by an edge of smug frustration, the kind you only get after bearing a cross for years. but it's not just an "i'm right, you're wrong" affair by any stretch. Jonas does a fantastic job communicating a lot of complicated subjects in ways that are friendly to even the most casual of viewers, rarely blaming the audience for their ignorance when studios and market trends are the real culprit. and because he's a veteran of the industry, he's able to interview prominent figures that would otherwise be inaccessible for the average essayist, like Academy Award winning VFX supervisor Paul Franklin.

(and here we come up against a question countenanced more than once on this blog-- where is the line between video essay and documentary? i think this readily qualifies as the former given the first-person direct address shot-in-his-living-room style, yet somehow i feel a bit uneasy with the classification. oh well, a topic for another day)

the most eye-opening section for me is also one of the first, where Jonas confronts the public image of Top Gun: Maverick. i haven't seen this film yet, but i have seen the endless and unqualified buzz about its practical effects. and to be sure, these deserve quite a lot of praise-- they put real actors in real fighter jets for crying out loud! yet in all that crowing, a very important fact totally fell by the wayside: nary a single shot in the film is without digital manipulation. and not just in the basic touch-up sense, removing safety anachronisms and the like. the jets, the cockpits, and the actors themselves were all extensively replaced with digital doubles! i felt like an utter fool when he pointed out that quite often films praised for their lack of CGI will have more VFX artists credited than any other department in production. like, holy shit, it's all right there on the screen? what job were those hundreds of people doing if it was "all practical effects"?

which is the crux of the series' title: "NO CGI is really just INVISIBLE CGI." we have --or perhaps it'd be more honest to say i have-- a tendency to address CGI in binaristic terms. either it's there, or it's not there, right? Fincher's team can put digital blood running down Daniel Craig's face in the shower after he gets shot in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, but it's Craig's physical presence that sells it. a film like Top Gun: Maverick makes its bones marketing the spectacle, and because there's such fatigue with CGI-heavy blockbusters any mention of intermediary visual effects carries with it a stain on the authenticity. but really, it does nothing to diminish the practical nature of the photography to also acknowledge how much of what makes it to cinemas is, essentially, an extremely realistic cartoon.

and this is what Jonas's series really exposes for me. a lot of what we're looking at here is rotoscoping, the longstanding tradition of animating over top of live footage a la Disney's Snow White in 1937, though the technique was truly mastered by Max Fleischer in the 1910s. is there some gradeschool nag whispering in the back of our head that a rotoscope is just elaborate tracing? that it's a cheat, because "real" animation is done without reference? (for anyone who has actually worked in animation, this is your cue to laugh derisively)

but the truth is that you do not get one without the other. it takes a lot of planning to film a scene with an eye towards being reanimated, just as it takes tremendous skill to make that animation look good. if Top Gun: Maverick feels viscerally real, it is because the visual effects artists had a real reference to work from. one is not inherently better than the other, more pure or authentic. this isn't the 80s anymore, man. i mean, to get real fucking technical, the instant we stopped shooting on film was the death of "true practicality" in cinema, because a digital sensor must by its nature interpret visual information as raw data and then translate it to something we'd recognize as an image. celluloid film is purely optical, but a digital sensor requires someone (or a team of someones) to write an algorithm to do that interpreting-- which is, inherently, subjective. different cameras have different image processing algorithms, different bitrates and dynamic ranges, to say nothing of custom LUTs and the extensive post-processing required to make RAW footage not look like complete ass. and even now, celluloid cannot be said to be truly pure, because any film shot on celluloid is then digitally scanned, subjected to the exact same post production processing as any other digital film, the final product re-scanned to celluloid to give it a true filmic look, and then yet again digitized for wide distribution (because most cinemas today only have digital projectors).

this is not A Bad Thing! it is simply the material reality of film production in the 21st century. it has many upstream and downstream effects, of course, many of which have negatively impacted the quality of films and television in various ways-- but these are not qualities inherent to digital technology! rather, they are the result of a profit-seeking industry eager to cut corners wherever possible. the existence of CGI is not to blame for the bad CGI in Marvel movies, it's the greedy executives exploiting non unionized labor, forcing crunch at every level with no regard for the human cost, endlessly meddling in the production with their indecisive market-analysis driven brand alterations. ah, the age of the executive auteur, when at last the soulless corporate mindset once commonly decried by artists and audiences alike has been fully naturalized and even embraced by people who call themselves fans, who would sooner throw a director under the bus than say a bad word about Kevin fucking Feige.

it's a pathetic state of affairs, and it can only be called a brilliant act of marketing that CGI burnout in the public has been leveraged to only further erase the essential labor of visual effects artists. Jonas here even points out, much to my slack-jawed amazement, that promotional behind the scenes footage today frequently removes green screens and other indicators of a digital-forward production as a way of unduly acquiring practical effects credibility. as someone who watches a lot of these BTS features, i feel lied to and manipulated, and ashamed of myself for not realizing that making-ofs are just as much marketing as they are educational, often moreso by a lot. it's all just an illusion! and it cannot be repeated often enough that this is an erasure of a historically under-unionized industry, one whose exploitation has been thoroughly documented for years. that this erasure is occurring at a moment when finally, finally, finally corners of the visual effects world have begun to shed the libertarian values inherited from the tech industry and actually unionize is pretty fucking conspicuous to say the least.

i call these videos essential because they reveal a tremendous blind spot in our media literacy, even among those like myself who've studied media extensively. we are, generally, pretty good at identifying the weaknesses in a finished film, but our lack of experience and our credulity towards marketing that doesn't feel like marketing leads us to utterly fail when we attempt to diagnose their cause. when our analysis lacks an understanding of the material conditions of production, as informed by firsthand accounts of those who actually do the work, we cannot help but embarrass ourselves and in so doing blatantly misinform our audiences.

it didn't used to be like this. i remember the late 90s and early aughts, when joints like ILM were praised for their innovations. how often do you hear about VFX houses today? probably only when they go bankrupt. it's such a shame, because what Jonas does in these videos most of all is reveal just how astonishing the work of visual effects artists actually is. these are the perils of an industry whose job is to be invisible, which is why it's so important that their labor be made visible after the fact, celebrated rather than papered over, analyzed extensively rather than mentioned offhand. the truth is that quite a lot of us have been boldly, profoundly wrong about CGI in movies for a long time, and we're well past due for a correction of the record.

all of which is to say that these are some really great videos and you should absolutely go watch them right now

NOTE FROM THE FUTURE: episode 4 came out and it's also great.

[songoftrillium]

Hey, so I'm reading your Hearthbound Supplement, and I wanted to ask why the Fianna were such unified enemies of theirs. From what I can tell, (this is more something that just bugged me) Fianna are one of the tribes with a stronger, healthier relationship to their Kinfolk (inasmuch as any tribe broadly has a good relationship with their Kinfolk) (though I have been known to miss Implications from time to time). Plus, it seems like the younger Fianna have a much kinder view of the Crinos Born, so I'd think they'd be heavily split along generational lines on whether the Hearthborn are enemies or not

Now, granted, my knowledge of WtA is only deep in certain areas, so this might just be me not having gotten to certain books yet, and the Finna really are Like That.

(Or it could be my draw to the whole keeper of history and knowledge, craftsmen, and tendency to adhere to the "Canon is a box of scraps in a cave and I'm Tony stark baby" approach)

Thank you for reaching out! I'm glad you asked, and I have hoped someone would ask me about this. I'm gonna give a wordy answer that addresses your concern and elucidates how I analyzed all the tribes to draw my conclusions.

I want to preface my answer by voicing my fondness for the tribe. At the top of it all, I completely agree that their biggest strengths are their existence as master artisans and storytellers. These aspects are absolutely worth holding onto and even expanding upon. I also appreciate their Celtic origins, but I wish it encompassed all Celts, not just the Irish. That veers a bit off-topic from your question, though.

My depiction of them as the primary antagonist of the Hearthbound stems from both their treatment of the crinos-born, as well as the objectification of their Kinfolk. In the book I call them crinos-born, but in WtE the writing team and I settled on Warborn as the title of choice, so I'll be using that term from here on out.

Different editions were never meant to supersede each other, but rather, build on one another to depict a continuous meta reflecting the evolution of Garou Society in response to their developing war against the Wyrm. For example, the Storytellers handbooks from 2nd edition, revised, and the companion all offer unique tools with very little overlap.

While more experienced people versed in the literature like you and I can read between the lines and handpick the bits we like most, it ignores that the flaws inherent to the tribes are intentional and meant to be confronted by players at the table. To that end, I conducted my research behind my writing with consideration paid to the narrative voices depicting each book, the Garou within them sharing their subjective knowledge, and use that to coalesce a perspective behind my group. When I started writing Hearthbound, I decided to form my conclusions based on three narrative perspectives:

The way a tribe's leadership wants other tribes to view them, their kinfolk, and their warborn.

The way the kinfolk within that tribe feel like they're being treated.

The way the warborn within that tribe feel like they're being treated.

Hearthbound makes a more naked depiction of these problems specifically to confront them, though I admit I should have taken more of an effort to make it clear that these depictions are reflecting the worst aspects of these tribes, rather than the whole of them. These problems represent the worst outliers from each tribe, and are not meant to entirely replace these tribes. When it comes to systemic oppression, it's not always the laws and customs that cause the problems. Still, there are those who hide behind the veneer of hierarchy to abuse those customs in a way that they seldom face repercussions for it, and the Hearthbound are those repercussions. This is a reflection of other forms of systemic oppression, like laws alleged to be 'tough on crime', which on the surface looks great, but glosses over the way those crimes unfairly target marginalized groups and keep them from rising to prominence.

I draw my conclusions on each of the tribe stances from three sources:

Kinfolk: A Breed Apart offering a depiction of Kinfolk the way the tribes represent them, or rather, the way they want other tribes to see them. It does hold many positive depictions on the relations between Garou and Kinfolk.

Kinfolk: Unsung Heroes, in contrast, represents a perspective from Kinfolk that is a little less flattering and is more closely representing the perspective of the Kinfolk themselves (and is taken as such.)

Guardians of the Caerns has a chapter dedicated entirely to the Warborn, and lends their perspective on what it was like growing up in a Sept of a particular tribe. This represents the sentiment of what it's like being a Warborn from any one tribe, opposed to the way these tribes want to be seen.

To answer your question in short, yes, the worst of the Fianna really are that way. They are more likely to outright kill a Warborn and their parents than to accept them, and those Warborn who do exist within their tribes seldom hold rank, are often hidden from view, and subject to rather terrible abuses by their fellow tribemates.

Contrast that with the blatant and plainworded phrasing in the tribe description of them trending towards violence:

Combine that with their lackadaisical ways of speaking of their own families in Guardians of the Caerns, pg. 94:

Merryck's comments: It's not without a certain sense of irony that the Fianna, self-avowed masters and mistresses of passion and abandon among the werewolves, despise the [Warborn]. They believe that physical deformity shows a malevolence in the spirit as well. But at the same time, they're really into having wild, raucus parties, orgies if you ask my opinion. The Fianna dismiss any potential risk with this kind of activity their answer to slowing those driving passions is "find a Kinfolk to slake your lust." How practical. Don't kid yourself; there are many [Warborn] running around with red hair and green eyes, both in their tribe and outside it.

When you combine multiple sources and add a human perspective wrt consent, it starts to paint an incredibly unflattering canonical picture of the tribe, and a narratively compelling one, to boot.

For others reading this, below is a link to my supplement in question OP is referencing, if anyone wants to take a look!

[snevmev]

[scratchy tape recorder sfx]

Supplemental, I recently took an autism exam. I am fearful that whatever Eye entity may have changed me more than I thought, because I scored the maximum possible result without any revision or preparation before hand.

[fandom-trash-xl]

What would you change if you could revise Daima?

Honestly, I'm not a big fan of this sort of question wording, sort of suggesting that it needs correcting. It's flawed, yeah, what isn't, but I obviously don't have the author's vision for how he wanted it to go. I'll still answer, but rather in the context of making an alternate rather than a replacement. Note that I'm probably not the best at writing anime pacing.

An acknowledgement of Gohan and Videl after the shrink. Perhaps they come by amidst the commotion, needing answers, but the two have a reason for coming along to the Demon Realm. They'll help however they can on Earth.

Extend the episode count with fluff filler- then again, as a fluff lover, I'm biased.

These filler bits could include more elaboration or at least hinting about Glorio's past.

Is there lore for why the residents of the Demon Realm have a dislike for round-ears? Are there any rogue round-ears in the Demon Realm? Notably, Panzy's hacker friend, Peral, lacks pointed ears. This could be addressed too- perhaps Peral was an outcast that Panzy took in.

Change the Goku not being involved in raising his kids line, geez.

Panzy is given time to slowly develop her magic proficiency, perhaps gets her big moment where she unlocks a new unique spell.

How I'd contend with Super Saiyan 4 and the Fusion Bugs

Some extra time is spent in World 3. Due to some sort of confrontation, perhaps with wildlife, in the sky, Goku loses balance and falls into the Sea of Darkness. Despair and panic ensues.

However, due to a miracle, his own strength, or the rumors being wrong, Goku reemerges in an Achilles from the River Styx parallel. He feels a bit more invigorated, revitalized, and perhaps a little stronger too- and unfazed by his near death. He's the last one to realize that- surprise!- it also grew his tail back.

In a gag bit, Goku's tail somehow convinces the Gendarmerie that this isn't the guy they're looking for because "the report didn't say he had a tail". They get away, but the troopers have a double take moment.

During the final battle, after Goku realizes he's dropped the pouch of Medi Bugs, he digs a little deeper in his gi and finds that the Fusion Bugs slipped out, so he still has them on hand. He temporarily blanks on what this one does, perhaps mixes it up with another. Either way, Goku and Vegeta each eat one, not knowing it's the Fusion Bug, and combine.

The new Goku-Vegeta fusion (Kageta?) manages to hold up pretty well in the fight, but the fusion timer doesn't last as long as they'd like. The fusion pops apart as they're charging a Big Bang Kamehameha.

A bit of valuable time is wasted, not realizing how short the timer would be, arguing over what to call the fusion. The debate is even ongoing as they scuffle with Gomah. Comically, "Gogeta" gets vetoed.

Goku does not have any more bugs for a redo and, for his pride, Vegeta refuses to learn the Fusion Dance. Goku tries to convince him and perhaps even starts to show it off, only for Gomah to revoke their "talking is a free action" privilege.

Glorio pulls off the age-up wish, as in canon, but his confrontation with Arinsu regarding his betrayal ends badly for him, the Glind killing him for his insolence.

Super Saiyan 4 becomes an emotional awakening in response to Glorio's sacrifice, supplemented by his new tail. Fight proceeds as usual.

Glorio either stays perma-dead or someone has an ex-machina revive on hand (looking at either Arinsu (having a reluctant change of heart (aka still a bad person, but at least she's not trying to kill you guys) or because Kuu gave her the puppy dog eyes) or Neva). This point, no matter which direction, is when Goku gets his name right.

I mean, he still deserves this moment of getting his name right, although the TFS joke is right there.

"Actually, his name was Glorio." "Huh? That's funny, never spoke up about it."

Goku's post-Buu training is explained as him not being able to get anything new to stick. Super Saiyan 4 wasn't in his pocket pre-series at all and his tail coming back is likely what helped him tap in.

To Vegeta's shock, Goku removes his tail. Why would he give up a new form? He explains that having his tail would be more trouble than it's worth for his family.

He supposes that maybe the next step isn't a new form, but rather to improve on what's already there. Vegeta isn't sure of how to accept this answer.

"But, we still have to keep going, keep up! If some new big bad comes and puts us in danger again, we have to be ready to defend our home."

"You shouldn't say that so casually, Kakarot."

"You're probably right, what would be the chances? After Majin Buu, Gomah, I doubt anything will want to mess with the Earth any time soon!"

Unfortunately, new villain is alluded to.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Is one of the nearest galaxies to ours being torn apart?

A team led by Satoya Nakano and Kengo Tachihara at Nagoya University in Japan has revealed new insights into the motion of massive stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), a small galaxy neighboring the Milky Way. Their findings suggest that the gravitational pull of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), the SMC’s larger companion, may be tearing the smaller one apart. This discovery reveals a new pattern in the motion of these stars that could transform our understanding of galaxy evolution and interactions. The results were published in The Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series. 

“When we first got this result, we suspected that there might be an error in our method of analysis,” Tachihara said. “However, upon closer examination, the results are indisputable, and we were surprised.” 

The SMC remains one of the closest galaxies to the Milky Way. This proximity allowed the research team to identify and track approximately 7,000 massive stars within the galaxy. These stars, which are over eight times the mass of our Sun, typically survive for only a few million years before exploding as supernovae. Their presence indicates regions rich in hydrogen gas, a crucial component of star formation. 

“The stars in the SMC were moving in opposite directions on either side of the galaxy, as though they are being pulled apart,” Tachihara said. “Some of these stars are approaching the LMC, while others are moving away from it, suggesting the gravitational influence of the larger galaxy. This unexpected movement supports the hypothesis that the SMC is being disrupted by the LMC, leading to its gradual destruction.” 

Another surprising finding was the absence of rotational movement among the massive stars. Unlike in our Milky Way where interstellar gas rotates along with the stars, the study revealed a distinct pattern. Typically, young massive stars move together with the interstellar gas from which they were born, as they have not yet had time to decouple from its motion. However, the massive stars in the SMC do not follow a rotational pattern, indicating that the interstellar gas itself is also not rotating. 

“If the SMC is indeed not rotating, previous estimates of its mass and its interaction history with the Milky Way and LMC might need to be revised,” Nakano, a collaborator on the study who also made a video explaining the findings, explained. “This could potentially change our understanding of the history of the three-body interaction between the two Magellanic Clouds and the Milky Way.” 

The study has broader implications for understanding the dynamics of interactions between neighboring galaxies, particularly in the early universe. Astronomers consider the SMC to be an ideal model for studying the universe's infancy because it shares many conditions with primordial galaxies, such as low metallicity and weak gravitational potential. Therefore, the researchers' discoveries about the SMC and LMC interacting may resemble processes that shaped galaxies billions of years ago, providing valuable insights into their evolution over cosmic time. The group’s findings could create a new understanding of these processes. 

“We are unable to get a ‘bird's-eye view’ of the galaxy in which we live,” Tachihara noted. “As a result, the SMC and the LMC are the only galaxies in which we can observe the details of stellar motion. This research is important because it allows us to study the process of star formation in connection with the motion of stars throughout the galaxy.” 

IMAGE: Velocities of massive star candidates within the SMC shown as vectors. The colors of the arrows represent the direction of motion. Relative to the LMC, located at the bottom left of the image, most red arrows show movement towards the LMC, whereas most light blue arrows show movement away from the LMC, suggesting they are being pulled apart. Credit: Satoya Nakano

[twilightmalachite]

Raison d’être - The Nameless Girl 1

Author: Akira

Characters: Shu, Mika

Translator: Mika Enstars

"Nnah~, yer just like him in that respect too, Oshi-san. Ya don’t even know who Japan's current prime minister is, don’t ya?"

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Season: Winter

Location: Airport (Lobby)

The next day. At the international airport Itsuki Shu uses to travel between Japan and Paris…

Shu: Let us get our story straight.

In the villa’s cellar, my grandfather has left us this—two dairies of unknown origin.

For the sake of convenience, I will refer to the one titled “The Taming of the Shrew” as “Diary (Shrew)”—

And the one without a title that is sealed with a lock as “Diary (Nameless)”.

Mika: (Fufu, Oshi-san really does look like he’s enjoyin’ himself.)

(He likes to do research and the like to satisfy his curiosity, y’know—since always. Guess he’s kinda like an otaku when it comes to that.)

Shu: Why are you looking at me like that? Do you have something to say?

Mika: Nahh… So these two dairies are what Raffaello-san’s been callin’ personal novels with Grandfather as the protagonist? Or somethin’ like that?

Shu: Right. Although for whatever reason, Mr. Raffaello refuses to say anything about the matter, so I cannot ask him myself.

Mika: Yeah… I mean, Raffaello-san’s doll is equipped with a communication device which is suspicious, he was worried if it’d get through the rairport’s luggage check.

So he’d said somethin’ about like, goin’ to Paris one step ahead of us.

Shu: Oh well. Although I do not know how he plans to arrive there ahead of us… It would be quite the problem if the communication device is discovered and we are in turn suspected of something like terrorism, so his consideration is appreciated.

Mika: It’d be a lot easier t’just do things in person, why go through all the extra trouble of speakin’ through a doll? Maybe he’s shy, like how ya used t’be, Oshi-san?

Shu: Well, he’s thoroughly suspicious. But, well, we’ll formulate what we can about him so far. I do not think we will be able to find any conclusions as things are now.

Back to our main topic. Revising your earlier statement, or rather to supplement it, the author of both of these diaries is also Grandfather.

My grandfather is both the protagonist and the author of both of these books. Well, as a diary, that is to be expected.

Mika: Yer right… If ya were documentin’ the life of someone else rather than your own, it wouldn’t be a diary, but instead a record of observations.

Shu: Yes. And it appears that these two diaries were written during two different periods of time.

The dairies have the date and weather written, however, the date is not specified, so we can only speculate.

But it seems that these two diaries were written approximately ten to twenty years apart.

My grandfather had little interest in world news when he was young, so there is a limit to how much I can infer about the time period through comparing it to newspaper articles and the like.

Mika: Nnah~, yer just like him in that respect too, Oshi-san. Ya don’t even know who Japan's current prime minister is, don’t ya?

Shu: Because I have no interest in knowing. Hmph. Be it as it may, I can understand his common sense that much.

I, in fact, do feel a peculiar sympathy for Grandfather in his younger days. Perhaps it is because he is my grandfather by blood, but the way he thinks is much like my own.

Mika: (Nnah~, Oshi-san looks happy… He’s really takin’ pride in bein’ similar to his admired Grandfather.)

Shu: Because of this, however, the boundary between Grandfather’s ego and my own began to blur as I read—

Shu: And what is that face for? I thought I said to not look at me with those condescendingly affectionate eyes!

Well, whatever. My grandfather studied abroad and resided in Paris a number of times while he was young. He is eerily similar to myself in that regard as well.

He had lived in Paris for some time while studying abroad in his teens, and again because of work in his twenties or thirties.

These two diaries appear to have been written at these two respective periods.

My grandfather seems to have not settled down as he aged. Even back then, he was throwing tantrums and causing trouble no matter where he went… It’s slapstick that is surprisingly enjoyable to read.

Mika: Nnah~… I wish I could read it too, it sounds interestin’ from what I’m hearin’!

Shu: It turns out that Kiryu had a connection of sorts, so right now, he is getting it translated by someone he trusts. So wait patiently, a translation into a modern tongue of sorts will be available sooner or later.

Until then, I shall translate and read aloud for you, although it is a lot of work.

That being said, I am no expert either, so do bear with me if there are any mistranslations. It’s not as if we are dealing with more difficult expressions, but this is a diary we are talking about.

Mr. Raffaello has described it as a private novel, but as dairies are, it was written not with the purpose of being read by anyone, you see. Matters of presentation are of little concern.

But conversely, as diaries are, there are expressions frequently used that only the author, Grandfather, would understand, which makes it difficult to translate.

Mika: Aren’t we gettin’ off topic?

Shu: Yes… However, our goal is to glean my grandfather’s past through his diaries, so we can present to him his desired funeral for the Funeral Contest.

If we wish to understand it perfectly, we mustn’t miss out on any detail, you see.

Mika: So yer feelin’ nervous—Nah, yer just a perfectionist, huh, Oshi-san?

Shu: You are just too crude. As the proverb goes, “God is in the details”.[1] Always keep it in mind.

[ ☆ ]

← prev | story directory | next →

1. This is more of a fun fact; you might know the English saying “the devil is in the details”, which is a proverb that is nearly identical both in words and meaning to this Japanese proverb. However, the connotations are slightly different; “the devil is in the details” describes that details are complex and therefore the most problematic, emphasizing that they must be paid attention to. “God is in the details” describes that the sense of wholeness will be complete if attention is paid to, or perhaps that a work may lose its sense of divinity if details are neglected. Given Shu’s fondness for detail and perfectionism, I didn’t want to lose the connotation that the Japanese proverb had, and kept the saying as-is.

[lucky-clover-gazette]

The Big Picture

Vio & Shadow-focused Four Swords Manga Adaptation | Rated G

Chapter 4: Quest Updated

“Can you hear me?” asks the voice of Ganon, projected from some kind of unreachable void. Shadow isn’t exactly sure how Ganon’s remote oversight works. All he knows is that Ganon created him, Ganon’s will is truth, and Ganon will appear to him only when the time is right.

Not that Shadow cares, or anything.

“We can hear you,” sighs Vaati.

“I can’t hear you.”

Read the chapter (and very informative author's note!!) on ao3 or under the cut:

Author's Note: Finally, I’m working on this project again! I encourage you to re-read the previous chapters, because I just did a pretty significant amount of revision. The most notable change is the decision to not use manga dialogue verbatim—I’m still heavily referencing the transcription, but changing some language and phrasing to blend with my own style. Also important to note is the change of Vio, Shadow, Green, Blue, Red, Zelda, and Link Prime’s age, which is now 16 instead of 19. Working so closely with the manga, I’ve concluded that it makes the most sense for them to be around that age—mature enough to resonate with adults and potentially develop complex feelings, but young enough where it’s still believable that they would speak/act in line with the manga. To me, the True Manga Canon Links are 14-16 in the same way that, like, Katara, Sokka, Princess Azula, and Prince Zuko are ages 14-16. They’re not living in a world like ours, attending high school or something equivalent; they have very adult responsibilities, while simultaneously coping with teenage angst and the challenge of developing their own identities. And while Vio and Shadow stand out as the characters least believable as any age younger than 14, I do think the others—while silly in an cartoonish way—are not as a whole believable as preteens either. Like, Mabel and Dipper Pines are written as unusually clever preteens, and even they still seem younger than Red. Side note: cartoons are not my only frame of reference for media interpretation, but I am writing this specific thing like it’s a cartoon. Ultimately, I think that while I personally prefer writing a more mature interpretation, these characters can only be teenagers in something meant to complement and supplement canon. That said, I still fully intend to expand on the queer subtext between Vio and Shadow. Their canon arc reminds me a lot of the confusing, codependent, and ultimately life-altering relationships queer teenagers often find themselves in. This adaptation will explore Vio and Shadow’s journeys of queer discovery, both literally and allegorically, because that’s how I personally interpret the manga. Even if you’re not big on shipping these specific characters, I sincerely hope you can respect my interpretation and still find something that resonates. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this very belated update :)

Pure light transports the heroes to a chamber beneath Hyrule Castle. Link has been here before—very recently, in fact—but to Vio it somehow feels new.

“Are you well, heroes?” asks a soft female voice. Vio looks towards the center of the chamber, where a young woman floats trapped inside a magically crystal. She clasps her hands in front of her chest as if to pray.

“The Blue Maiden!” Red exclaims, his eyes wide.

“Did you save us?” asks Green.

“Link,” says the maiden, “something awful has begun. A terrible ordeal. Darkness once again covers Hyrule, just as in times of legend.”

Tell me something I don’t know, Vio wants to mutter, but decides not to antagonize the minor deity who probably just saved his life. .

“The shadow that took us was a phantom hero,” the maiden continues, “created by an evil demon.”

Vio perks up at that. The more he learns about that freak, the easier it will be to defeat him.

“It is a ‘Shadow Link. A dark reflection of you, but more powerful than any mere shadow.”

Vio attempts to process this. How exactly had Shadow Link been created? It couldn’t have been a similar process to himself. Vio is a fractured piece of a person, while Shadow Link is a dark reflection of a whole. No wonder he’s more powerful than the four of them—although combined, maybe the heroes could still stand a chance.

The maiden sighs, recapturing Vio’s attention. “It took all my might to send even that small light through the barrier. His power is not yet at its peak. You must stop him before that happens.”

“We’re no match for him now,” says Red in a defeated slump. “How can we ever beat him?”

Blue draws his sword. “We’ve gotta smash that barrier first!”

“That isn’t possible right now,” says the Blue Maiden. “The Four Sword has been cursed by Vaati. You must re-energize it, fill it with Life Force and the curse will be lifted. Then you can defeat the darkness for good.”

The four exchange uneasy glances. Finally, Green speaks up.

“Blue Maiden,” he says, “where is Princess Zelda?”

“I don’t know,” admits the maiden. “Weak as I am, I can’t sense clearly. But I can faintly sense her spirit… far, far away.”

Green nods, determined. “She’s alive. That’s enough.” It brings Vio relief, too, that this could all still be undone.

“Hold on, Blue Maiden,” says Green. “We’ll be back to save you soon.”

“Be careful, my four heroes.” The maiden closes her eyes tight, as if channeling the little power she has left. “Travel towards the Eastern Sea. I sense another Maiden within the Eastern Temple.”

Vio finds himself nodding, too.

They exit the castle through the dungeons, careful to remain undetected by Shadow Link’s army of monsters. Eventually they reach a path, which according to the sign leads directly from Castle Town to the Eastern Sea. Vio assumes that it’s meant to be followed by traveling merchants, over the course of days.

Red sighs loudly.

“Losing confidence?” Vio asks, almost playfully,.

“Yeah,” says Red, “how’d you know?”

“Because I am you.”

Green stares into the distance, filled with determination. “If Dark Link is our shadow,” he says, “we need to be better to beat him. Be more like father.”

“Yeah,” Vio smirks. “Right now, I’d give us a 50/50 chance.”

“But if we restore the sword we’ll get stronger!” says Red. “And if we can learn some teamwork—”

Blue scoffs, cutting him off. “I don’t care what it takes, we’re doing it.”

Green’s eyes sparkle in the daylight as he addresses his teammates. Vio can’t help but feel a little inspired. “Then it’s decided,” their leader announces. “Let’s go!”

─────────────────

“You’re late,” Vaati tells Shadow as he shuts the door behind him. The one-eyed demon waits at the far end of the conference table, as usual, scrutinizing the shade as he plops down into his own seat.

Steadying his heart, Shadow rolls his eyes. Reclines slightly, enough to slam his boots onto the table. Shoots Vaati a self-satisfied grin. “Sorry, I was busy. Doing things, in my body.”

Vaati’s eye narrows. The Wind Mage may now be free in the world of light, but he still lacks a corporeal form.

“You’re welcome, by the way,” Shadow adds. “For breaking the seal.”

“Don’t congratulate yourself just yet.”

The air in the dark room begins to crackle, an occurrence Shadow immediately recognizes. He removes his boots from the table and stiffens his posture.

“Can you hear me?” asks the voice of Ganon, projected from some kind of unreachable void. Shadow isn’t exactly sure how Ganon’s remote oversight works. All he knows is that Ganon created him, Ganon’s will is truth, and Ganon will appear to him only when the time is right.

Not that Shadow cares, or anything.

“We can hear you,” sighs Vaati.

“I can’t hear you.”

“Do you have us on mute?” Shadow asks, helpfully.

Vaati scoffs. “He just said he can’t hear you.” Shadow just shrugs.

“I think I have you on mute,” says Ganon. “Hold on, this is—ah. Yes, I see.”

Vaati and Shadow lock eyes, unsure who should speak first.

“I still can’t hear you,” Ganon repeats, frustrated.

“Lord Ganon,” Vaati finally says, “we are both here.”

“There you are. Excellent.”

Shadow preens under his approval. “My Lord, I have good news. The Wind Mage has been successfully freed, and the Four Sword drawn. Princess Zelda is in our clutches. Hyrule Castle has been overtaken by our forces.”

“Our clutches? Our forces?”

Shadow winces. “Yours, My Lord.”

Ganon pauses for a moment. Shadow grips the edge of the table. “It seems you are serving your purpose, Shadow Link.”

Shadow grins. “You should have seen it, Link’s father was so fooled. And the four heroes—”

“Are dead?” interrupts Ganon, and Shadow’s heart falls.

“Not… as such.”

“Explain yourself, Shadow Link.”

Shadow deliberates each word before it leaves his mouth. “They had assistance, my Lord. The Blue Maiden, while contained, used her remaining light magic to repel my presence and transport them to safety.”

“I see.”

Shadow braces himself for his creator’s disapproval.

“Because the heroes survive,” Ganon says, “they pose a great danger to you.”

Shadow hangs his head. “I’m sorry, I can’t control how I—”

“You are not the perfect being I sought to create, Shadow Link. You are inherently flawed, weak to the light.”

And now the heroes know it too, Shadow realizes, ashamed. Despite all of his prior gleeful theatrics, he hadn’t even considered acting unbothered by the light. Not when it scared him so much, not when it caught his so off-guard. Pathetic.

“However,” continues Ganon, “your failure is not in your weakness.”

Shadow’s breath hitches. “It isn’t?”

“Your failure is in your admittance of defeat. You have the power of darkness at your disposal—use it wisely.”

Shadow takes a deep breath and nods. “Yes, my Lord.”

“You will need to travel in darkness to defeat them,” Ganon instructs. “Do not attempt to approach the heroes during the daytime.”

“But then how am I supposed to—”

“Have patience. Observe. Prevent the four heroes from gaining power, but do not make yourself vulnerable again.”

Shadow’s palms itch. He’s not a delegator, and patience is not one of his virtues. There’s no place for theatricality in this mission. It doesn’t sound fun.

“I won’t disappoint you,” Shadow reassures his creator, already plotting ways to disrupt the heroes’ journey. He could still make this fun. He could succeed, despite his weakness. He isn’t a perfect creation, but he can still be the next best thing.

Or would he be the next worst thing, considering the evil of it all?

“Your supervision is appreciated,” Ganon tells Vaati. “And Shadow Link—”

“Yes?”

“I am… proud of what you have accomplished. I look forward to your future successes.”

Shadow breaks out into an almost childish smile. “Thank you, my Lord!”

Ganon doesn’t respond, but his presence still lingers. Vaati and Shadow exchange a tired glance.

“You have to end the call,” sighs the Wind Mage. “Sir.”

“Right,” says Ganon, admitting no fault of his own. “Meeting adjourned.”

[sereniesstuff]

🌟 Hi! Here's a new video with my top main menu and loading screen mods for Baldur's Gate 3 and working on Mac OS! 🌟

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

And here the list of the mods I'm using in my 🎮 :

🔗 Astralities' Hair Color Supplement

🔗 Astralities' Skintone Expansion - Natural Tones

🔗 Basket Full of Equipment. SFW version

🔗 Cute dice collection

🔗 Ellian's Hair

🔗 Ellian's heads

🔗 Ellian’s trinkets

🔗 Eyes of the Beholder

🔗 Harpy Hairs

🔗 Highlight Revised

🔗 Horns of Faerun

🔗 Long Straight Hair

🔗 New Character Creation Presets WIP

🔗 P4 Custom Eye Colours

🔗 P4 Custom Hair Colours Highlights and Greying (Includes Darker Black)

🔗 Shadowheart Hair Down

🔗 Suan Eyes Preset

🔗 Tav's Hair Salon

🔗 Vemperen's Other Heads Repaired (Non-Replacer)

🔗 Vessnelle's Hair Collection

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

I also recommend these mods (which don't need you to modify the modsettings.lsx file but to just put them inside the designed folder), if you want something more immersive and practical:

🔗* Aether's Immersive UI: I'm using CombatLog, Dialogue, HotBar and PlayerPortraits

🔗* Better Maps All-In-One: I'm using Better Map 0.7 scale + Clear Map No Grid Transparent Shroud

🔗* Damage Preview

🔗* Better Character and Party Panels

🔗* Better Containers

🔗* Slightly Better Trade Menu

🔗* Slightly Better Split Item Menu

🔗* Slightly Better Topbar

[24worldnewsnet]

n holdouts leave Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' hanging in balanceSenate Majority Leader John Thune pushed for a vote on the latest text of the bill on Saturday. Senate Republicans are racing to pass a budget bill that is pivotal to President Donald Trump's second-term agenda ahead of a self-imposed 4 July deadline.Party leadership have been twisting arms for an initial vote on the "Big Beautiful Bill" on Saturday, following the release of its latest version - all 940 pages - shortly after midnight.Rank-and-file Republicans have been divided over how much to cut from welfare programmes in order to cover the cost of extending some $3.8tn (£2.8tn) in Trump tax breaks.The sprawling tax and spending measure passed the House of Representatives by a single vote last month.In a memo sent on Saturday to Senate offices, the White House endorsed the latest revisions to the bill and called for its passage. The memo reportedly warned that failure to approve the budget "would be the ultimate betrayal". But Senate Majority Leader John Thune called plans for a Saturday vote "aspirational". A Republican senator from Wisconsin, Ron Johnson, told the Fox & Friends programme on Saturday he will be voting "no", saying he still needed time to read it. "We just got the bill," Johnson said. "I got my first copy at about 01:23 in the morning."Two other Republican senators are holding out.Thom Tillis of North Carolina raised objections to the legislation on Saturday, a day after Rand Paul of Kentucky said no. All eyes are now on centrist Republican senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine.Collins has indicated she may support a vote to advance the bill to the debate stage, but that she remains undecided on whether she will vote "yes" to passing it.The bill needs a simple majority to clear the Senate. With Republicans holding 53 seats out of 100, plus a tiebreaker from Vice-President JD Vance, the party can only afford three defections.The latest version was designed to appease some backbench Republican holdouts. Other amendments incorporate input from the Senate parliamentarian, an official who reviews bills to ensure they comply with the chamber's procedures.It includes an increase in funding for rural hospitals, after some party moderates argued the original proposal would harm their constituents. Another tweak was made to State and Local Taxes (Salt) - a bone of contention for representatives from high-tax states such as New York.There is currently a $10,000 cap on how much taxpayers can deduct from the amount they owe in federal taxes. In the new bill, Senate Republicans have raised the Salt limit to $40,000 for married couples with incomes up to $500,000 - in line with what the House of Representatives approved.But the latest Senate version ends the $40,000 cap after five years - when it would drop back to $10,000.There are also changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Snap), which provides food benefits to low-income Americans. Under the latest bill, Alaska and Hawaii would be temporarily exempt from a proposed requirement for some states to start footing the bill for the programme, which is currently fully funded by the federal government. The revision comes after Alaska's two Republican senators pushed for an exemption. The legislation still contains some of its core components, including extending tax cuts passed by Republicans in 2017, as well as the addition of new cuts that Trump campaigned on, such as a tax deduction on Social Security benefits and the elimination of taxes on overtime work and tips. More contentious measures are also still in place, including restrictions and requirements on Medicaid - a healthcare programme used by millions of elderly, disabled and low-income Americans. Democrats have heavily criticised this piece of the bill, saying it will limit access to affordable healthcare for millions of Americans. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that 7.8 million people would become

[ayush15]

Audiobooks for SSC CGL: The Smart Way to Prepare

Download the App

The SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam is one of the most competitive government job exams in India. It requires thorough preparation in Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, English Language, and Reasoning Ability. Given the vast syllabus and time constraints, audiobooks have emerged as an effective learning tool, allowing aspirants to study on the go and retain concepts better.

Why Choose Audiobooks for SSC CGL Preparation?

Learn Anytime, Anywhere – Study while commuting, exercising, or doing chores.

Better Retention – Listening helps in reinforcing concepts and improving memory.

Time-Saving – No need to read lengthy books; listen and revise quickly.

Less Eye Strain – Reduces screen dependency and fatigue.

Multi-tasking – Prepare for exams while managing daily activities.

Best Audiobooks for SSC CGL Preparation

Here are the top books available in audiobook format for SSC CGL aspirants:

1. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R.S. Aggarwal

Covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry.

Includes shortcuts and tricks to solve problems quickly.

2. Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma

Focuses on speed math techniques and problem-solving strategies.

Great for quick revision and practice.

3. A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

Covers logical reasoning, puzzles, and analytical skills.

Essential for SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2 exams.

4. Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey

Develops logical and analytical thinking.

Useful for solving complex reasoning questions.

5. Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis

Enhances vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.

A must-read for English section preparation.

6. Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi

Covers grammar rules, comprehension, and sentence correction.

Useful for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 English exams.

7. Lucent’s General Knowledge

Covers History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Science.

Important for General Awareness section.

8. Manorama Yearbook

Provides current affairs, economic updates, and general knowledge.

Essential for staying updated on national and international events.

9. Kiran’s SSC CGL Previous Year Papers

Includes past exam questions with detailed explanations.

Helps in understanding exam patterns and frequently asked questions.

10. SSC Mathematics by Rakesh Yadav

Focuses on high-level mathematics with solved examples.

Includes shortcuts and tricks for solving problems faster.

11. English for General Competitions by Neetu Singh

Covers error detection, sentence improvement, and reading comprehension.

Ideal for SSC CGL, CHSL, and other government exams.

12. General Studies by Disha Experts

A detailed guide covering General Science, History, Polity, and Economy.

Helps in General Awareness and Current Affairs preparation.

13. SSC General Awareness by Arihant

Covers Static GK, Science, History, and Current Affairs.

Essential for quick revision.

14. SSC CGL Mock Test Series by Various Publishers

Includes full-length mock tests with explanations.

Helps in self-assessment and time management.

Where to Find SSC CGL Audiobooks?

SSC CGL aspirants can now access audiobooks for SSC CGL preparation on the Audicate app. Audicate provides high-quality audiobooks covering Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English, General Knowledge, and Previous Year Papers, making audio learning an efficient and smart choice for exam preparation.

Conclusion

Cracking SSC CGL requires dedication, strategy, and smart learning techniques. Audiobooks offer flexibility, time efficiency, and better retention, making them an excellent supplement to traditional study methods. With Audicate, aspirants can listen, learn, and succeed in their journey toward securing a government job.

Start your SSC CGL preparation with audiobooks on Audicate today!

[global-research-report]

The Beauty Within: Global Growth of the Hyaluronic Acid Market

The global hyaluronic acid market size is expected to reach USD 16.75 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 7.7% from 2024 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Factors, such as increasing concern of population regarding chemicals, desire to get quick and evident results, and shorter recovery time are high impact rendering drivers. The industry is evolving rapidly due to the increasing adoption of aesthetic procedures in developed and developing regions. Increasing the use of hyaluronic acid surfaces in cardiovascular implants, such as stents and vascular grafts, for improving compatibility coupled with the growing awareness about anti-aging products is fueling the growth.

The efficacy and evident results of hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers are attracting this population base. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the dynamics of many industries, with movement restrictions, social distancing, and revised practices becoming the “new normal.” As the cosmetic industry is gradually resuming its operations, a number of doctors have reported a significant increase in inquiries for aesthetic surgeries. Moreover, the lockdown has encouraged all professionals to use video-conferencing facilities, which has made people more conscious of their looks. In some cases, it has led people to opt for cosmetic treatments; this is termed the “Zoom Boom” or the “Zoom effect.”

Cosmetic surgeons across the world have witnessed a significant increase in the number of patients as a result of the pandemic, particularly in countries, such as the U.S., Australia, and Japan. North America held the maximum revenue share in 2022. Preference for short-treatment regimens, even though high-priced, and the prevalence of target diseases, such as osteoarthritis, are the key factors attributed to the high share. In 2022, the most lucrative product applications in the North America region were in the form of dermal fillers and viscos supplements for the management of osteoarthritis. Asia Pacific is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.

The growing geriatric population in China and Japan provide a large customer base for anti-aging products and services. Rising awareness about product applications and efficacy also fuels the demand. In addition, increasing disposable income levels are further supporting the region’s expansion. Europe has undergone impressive changes over the last 2 years. The growing demand is witnessing increasing price competition owing to new entrants. The WHO recently announced the obesity epidemic in the U.K. and Germany. The relationship between the increasing aging population and obesity is a potential driver for the Europe regional sector

Hyaluronic Acid Market Report Highlights

The osteoarthritis segment dominated the global industry and accounted for the maximum share of the overall revenue in 2023

The rising obesity resulting in osteoarthritis and joint pain has increased the demand for hyaluronic acid injections as a treatment

Hyaluronic acid acts as a shock absorber or a cushion and lubricates the joints, thus helping in proper functioning

There are a number of ophthalmic surgical products that use hyaluronan/hyaluronic acid as an active ingredient

These include Vitrax, Healon, Amivisc Plus, Amvisc, Hylan G-F20, and Opegan

The increasing prevalence of age-related eye diseases, dry eye syndrome, adult-vision impairments, and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, are major factors leading to segment growth.

Curious about the Hyaluronic Acid Market? Download your FREE sample copy now and get a sneak peek into the latest insights and trends.

Hyaluronic Acid Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global hyaluronic acid market based on application and region:

Hyaluronic Acid Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Dermal fillers

Osteoarthritis

Single-injection

Three-injection

Five-injection

Ophthalmic

Vesicoureteral reflux

Hyaluronic Acid Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

North America

US

Canada

Europe

UK

Germany

France

Italy

Spain

Denmark

Sweden

Norway

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Australia

Thailand

South Korea

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Argentina

Middle East & Africa

South Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Kuwait

Key Players of the Hyaluronic Acid Market

Allergan

Sanofi

Genzyme Corporation

Anika Therapeutics, Inc.

Salix Pharmaceuticals

Seikagaku Corporation

Hoffmann-La Roche Ag

Galderma Laboratories L.P.

Zimmer Biomet

Smith & Nephew Plc

Ferring B.V.

Lifecore Biomedical, LLC

HTL Biotechnology

Shiseido Company, Limited

Bloomage Biotechnology Corporation Limited

LG Life Sciences Ltd (LG Chem.)

Maruha Nichiro, Inc.

Order a free sample PDF of the Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[akshayadevi]

Top 10 Tips to Crack the TNPSC Exam in First Attempt

Preparing for the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) exam can be both exciting and challenging. With lakhs of aspirants competing for a limited number of government jobs, clearing the TNPSC exam in the first attempt requires a strategic approach, discipline, and consistent effort. Whether you’re eyeing the Group 1, Group 2, or Group 4 services, these expert tips will help you create a roadmap to success.

Let’s explore 10 proven tips that can significantly increase your chances of cracking the TNPSC exam on your first try.

1. Understand the TNPSC Exam Pattern and Syllabus Thoroughly

Before you begin your preparation, familiarize yourself with the TNPSC exam pattern and syllabus. TNPSC exams are conducted in multiple stages—Prelims, Mains, and Interview (for Group 1 and 2). Each stage demands a different level of preparation.

Pro Tip: Print the syllabus and use it as a checklist. Mark topics as you cover them—this keeps your preparation focused and efficient.

2. Choose the Right Study Materials and Resources

Invest in authentic and updated study materials that align with the TNPSC syllabus. Standard books like Samacheer Kalvi textbooks (especially for History and Science) are highly recommended. Supplement these with NCERT books and previous year question papers.

One great way to ensure you're using the best resources is to join a reputed TNPSC Coaching Center In Coimbatore, where expert mentors can guide you to the right materials.

3. Follow a Structured Study Plan

Success in competitive exams like TNPSC comes from consistency. Break down the syllabus into manageable weekly or daily goals and stick to your schedule. Allocate more time to difficult subjects or weak areas.

4. Practice with Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests

Solve at least the past 5–10 years' question papers. This helps you understand the type of questions asked and the difficulty level of the exam. Regular mock tests improve your speed and accuracy.

Many students at top TNPSC Coaching Center In Coimbatore have found that regular mock tests are game changers in building exam readiness.

5. Focus on Tamil and General English Proficiency

In TNPSC exams, Tamil and General English play a vital role, especially in Group 4 and VAO exams. Practice reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary daily to boost your scores.

6. Strengthen Your General Knowledge and Current Affairs

Stay updated with daily current affairs from reputed newspapers like The Hindu and Dinathanthi. Topics such as Tamil Nadu politics, government schemes, national events, and international news are crucial.

Regular GK discussions at a TNPSC Coaching Center In Coimbatore often help students retain current affairs better through group interaction and quizzes.

7. Take Notes and Revise Regularly

Make your own notes—short, crisp, and tailored to your understanding. These come in handy during the final revision phase. Revision is essential to ensure that you remember what you’ve studied.

8. Join Study Groups or Online Communities

Learning with peers creates a support system. Discussing difficult topics, sharing materials, and solving doubts together makes preparation more interactive and less stressful.

If you're enrolled in a TNPSC Coaching Center In Coimbatore, take advantage of peer study circles and mentor-led discussions.

9. Take Care of Your Health and Well-being

A healthy body supports a focused mind. Maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Burnout is common during exam prep, so don’t hesitate to take short breaks.

10. Stay Motivated and Believe in Yourself

Your mindset plays a huge role in your success. Stay positive, track your progress, and celebrate small victories. Remember, thousands have cleared the TNPSC exam—and so can you!

Mentors from leading TNPSC Coaching Center In Coimbatore often emphasize confidence and self-discipline as keys to first-attempt success.

Real-World Success: Learn from Toppers

“I cleared TNPSC Group 2 on my first attempt by sticking to a daily study plan and taking weekly mock tests at my coaching center. Guidance from mentors made all the difference.” — Priya M., TNPSC Group 2 Officer, Coimbatore

In 2023, more than 28% of successful TNPSC candidates attributed their success to structured coaching and access to mock exams—according to data from TNPSC Insight Magazine.

Conclusion: Your Journey Starts Now

Cracking the TNPSC exam in the first attempt is absolutely achievable with the right strategy, persistence, and resources. Start by building a solid foundation, use authentic materials, and seek guidance when needed. If you’re looking for a structured approach, expert mentorship, and consistent motivation, consider joining a trusted TNPSC Coaching Center In Coimbatore.

[nextengineer]

Take advantage of professional online coaching classes to ace the SSC JE 2025 exam.

Introduction

The SSC Junior Engineer (SSC JE) 2025 Exam is one of the most sought-after competitive exams for engineering graduates in India. With thousands of aspirants competing for a limited number of vacancies, preparing with expert online coaching can be a game-changer.

Understanding the SSC JE Exam

Eligibility Criteria

To appear for the SSC JE exam, candidates must have:

A degree or diploma in Civil, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering.

An age limit between 18-32 years (varies based on category and department).

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The exam consists of two papers:

Paper 1: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, and Technical Subject.

Paper 2: Descriptive paper focused on technical subjects.

Why Choose Online Coaching for SSC JE?

Flexibility and Convenience

Online coaching allows you to study anytime, anywhere. No need to relocate or follow a rigid schedule.

Cost-Effectiveness

Online courses are more affordable than offline coaching, with added benefits like recorded lectures and lifetime access.

Features of Expert Online Coaching Classes

Live Interactive Classes

Real-time interaction with faculty helps in clarifying doubts instantly.

Recorded Video Lectures

Missed a session? No worries! Access lectures anytime to revise at your own pace.

Doubt-Solving Sessions

Regular doubt-clearing sessions ensure concept clarity and better understanding.

Comprehensive Syllabus Coverage

Technical Subjects

Covers all core engineering subjects relevant to the exam.

General Awareness and Reasoning

Special focus on GK and reasoning to boost overall scores.

Structured Study Plan for SSC JE 2025

Daily and Weekly Schedules

A well-structured timetable helps cover the syllabus systematically.

Importance of Consistency

Regular study habits lead to better retention and performance.

Best Online Coaching Platforms for SSC JE

NextEngineer

One of the leading platforms offering SSC JE online coaching classes with expert faculty and quality study material.

Other Reputed Platforms

Several other platforms also offer quality coaching. Research before enrolling.

Mock Tests and Practice Papers

Importance of Solving Previous Year Papers

Practicing past papers gives an idea about exam difficulty and pattern.

Online Test Series Benefits

Simulates real exam conditions and improves time management skills.

Time Management Strategies

Prioritizing Subjects

Focus on weak areas first while maintaining strength in key subjects.

Effective Revision Techniques

Use short notes, flashcards, and summary sheets for quick revision.

Expert Tips to Crack SSC JE 2025

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Don't ignore non-technical sections.

Time management is crucial.

Utilizing Online Resources Effectively

Use YouTube lectures, PDFs, and apps to supplement learning.

Personalized Mentorship and Guidance

One-on-One Mentoring

Personalized guidance can help tackle weak areas.

Performance Analysis

Regular assessments help track progress.

Success Stories of SSC JE Aspirants

Real-Life Examples

Learn from toppers who cracked SSC JE with smart strategies.

Learning from Toppers

Implement their study techniques to enhance your preparation.

How to Stay Motivated During Preparation

Overcoming Procrastination

Set daily goals and follow a strict schedule.

Setting Realistic Goals

Break down your syllabus into smaller milestones.

Registration Process for Online Coaching

Steps to Enroll

Visit the coaching website.

Choose the preferred course.

Complete registration and payment.

Discounts and Offers

Many platforms offer early-bird discounts. Keep an eye on special offers!

Conclusion

Mastering the SSC JE 2025 Exam Syllabus requires dedication, smart planning, and expert guidance. With the right online coaching, you can boost your chances of success. Choose wisely, stay consistent, and keep practicing!

FAQs

1. Is online coaching enough to crack SSC JE?

Yes, if you follow a disciplined study plan and regularly practice mock tests.

2. Which online platform is best for SSC JE coaching?

NextEngineer and other reputed platforms offer excellent courses with expert faculty.

3. How many hours should I study daily for SSC JE?

A minimum of 4-6 hours of focused study is recommended.

4. Are mock tests necessary for SSC JE preparation?

Absolutely! Mock tests help in time management and self-assessment.

5. Can I clear SSC JE in the first attempt?

Yes, with consistent effort, smart strategies, and the right guidance, you can crack SSC JE on your first attempt!