#Refining Existing Applications

[mariacallous]

Ever since OpenAI released ChatGPT at the end of 2022, hackers and security researchers have tried to find holes in large language models (LLMs) to get around their guardrails and trick them into spewing out hate speech, bomb-making instructions, propaganda, and other harmful content. In response, OpenAI and other generative AI developers have refined their system defenses to make it more difficult to carry out these attacks. But as the Chinese AI platform DeepSeek rockets to prominence with its new, cheaper R1 reasoning model, its safety protections appear to be far behind those of its established competitors.

Today, security researchers from Cisco and the University of Pennsylvania are publishing findings showing that, when tested with 50 malicious prompts designed to elicit toxic content, DeepSeek’s model did not detect or block a single one. In other words, the researchers say they were shocked to achieve a “100 percent attack success rate.”

The findings are part of a growing body of evidence that DeepSeek’s safety and security measures may not match those of other tech companies developing LLMs. DeepSeek’s censorship of subjects deemed sensitive by China’s government has also been easily bypassed.

“A hundred percent of the attacks succeeded, which tells you that there’s a trade-off,” DJ Sampath, the VP of product, AI software and platform at Cisco, tells WIRED. “Yes, it might have been cheaper to build something here, but the investment has perhaps not gone into thinking through what types of safety and security things you need to put inside of the model.”

Other researchers have had similar findings. Separate analysis published today by the AI security company Adversa AI and shared with WIRED also suggests that DeepSeek is vulnerable to a wide range of jailbreaking tactics, from simple language tricks to complex AI-generated prompts.

DeepSeek, which has been dealing with an avalanche of attention this week and has not spoken publicly about a range of questions, did not respond to WIRED’s request for comment about its model’s safety setup.

Generative AI models, like any technological system, can contain a host of weaknesses or vulnerabilities that, if exploited or set up poorly, can allow malicious actors to conduct attacks against them. For the current wave of AI systems, indirect prompt injection attacks are considered one of the biggest security flaws. These attacks involve an AI system taking in data from an outside source—perhaps hidden instructions of a website the LLM summarizes—and taking actions based on the information.

Jailbreaks, which are one kind of prompt-injection attack, allow people to get around the safety systems put in place to restrict what an LLM can generate. Tech companies don’t want people creating guides to making explosives or using their AI to create reams of disinformation, for example.

Jailbreaks started out simple, with people essentially crafting clever sentences to tell an LLM to ignore content filters—the most popular of which was called “Do Anything Now” or DAN for short. However, as AI companies have put in place more robust protections, some jailbreaks have become more sophisticated, often being generated using AI or using special and obfuscated characters. While all LLMs are susceptible to jailbreaks, and much of the information could be found through simple online searches, chatbots can still be used maliciously.

“Jailbreaks persist simply because eliminating them entirely is nearly impossible—just like buffer overflow vulnerabilities in software (which have existed for over 40 years) or SQL injection flaws in web applications (which have plagued security teams for more than two decades),” Alex Polyakov, the CEO of security firm Adversa AI, told WIRED in an email.

Cisco’s Sampath argues that as companies use more types of AI in their applications, the risks are amplified. “It starts to become a big deal when you start putting these models into important complex systems and those jailbreaks suddenly result in downstream things that increases liability, increases business risk, increases all kinds of issues for enterprises,” Sampath says.

The Cisco researchers drew their 50 randomly selected prompts to test DeepSeek’s R1 from a well-known library of standardized evaluation prompts known as HarmBench. They tested prompts from six HarmBench categories, including general harm, cybercrime, misinformation, and illegal activities. They probed the model running locally on machines rather than through DeepSeek’s website or app, which send data to China.

Beyond this, the researchers say they have also seen some potentially concerning results from testing R1 with more involved, non-linguistic attacks using things like Cyrillic characters and tailored scripts to attempt to achieve code execution. But for their initial tests, Sampath says, his team wanted to focus on findings that stemmed from a generally recognized benchmark.

Cisco also included comparisons of R1’s performance against HarmBench prompts with the performance of other models. And some, like Meta’s Llama 3.1, faltered almost as severely as DeepSeek’s R1. But Sampath emphasizes that DeepSeek’s R1 is a specific reasoning model, which takes longer to generate answers but pulls upon more complex processes to try to produce better results. Therefore, Sampath argues, the best comparison is with OpenAI’s o1 reasoning model, which fared the best of all models tested. (Meta did not immediately respond to a request for comment).

Polyakov, from Adversa AI, explains that DeepSeek appears to detect and reject some well-known jailbreak attacks, saying that “it seems that these responses are often just copied from OpenAI’s dataset.” However, Polyakov says that in his company’s tests of four different types of jailbreaks—from linguistic ones to code-based tricks—DeepSeek’s restrictions could easily be bypassed.

“Every single method worked flawlessly,” Polyakov says. “What’s even more alarming is that these aren’t novel ‘zero-day’ jailbreaks—many have been publicly known for years,” he says, claiming he saw the model go into more depth with some instructions around psychedelics than he had seen any other model create.

“DeepSeek is just another example of how every model can be broken—it’s just a matter of how much effort you put in. Some attacks might get patched, but the attack surface is infinite,” Polyakov adds. “If you’re not continuously red-teaming your AI, you’re already compromised.”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Quick world lore question; does the game ever specify what kind of potions/poisons exist in twst? Like, since it's technically a fantasy world, would things like health/stamina potions like you'd see in rpg's exist? Or would it be closer to reality, like home remedies and basic pharmaceutical stuff?

I'm only an EN player and I havent read all the pomfiore student's vignette's so if they answer this there then im sorry for the bother ; ;

Potions aren't talked about in the only Pomefiore students' vignettes! (In fact, if we're talking just strictly Labwear vignettes... Vil and Rook's don't really focus on potions at all; only Epel's sort of does.) There isn't actually a ton of lore about potions, and in the times when they do become relevant, the writing tends to focus more on the ingredients and/or the preparation process rather than what kind of potion would be produced. For example, the entire Labwear series of vignettes frequently brings up rare or dangerous plants that require the application of magic in order to safely harvest, such as the mandrake and the lantern blossom.

I wasn't able to check all vignettes (since that would be like... what, probably a few hundred at this point? If not that, then at least over 100.), but there's definitely mentions of potions with various effects. From all lab vignettes alone and combing through the main story, here's what I could glean:

transformation/transmutation potions (prologue, book 2, Beans Day, book 6, etc; this is probably the most often mentioned type of potion)

voice-changing potions (Leona Labwear vignette)

color-changing potions (Epel Labwear voice line)

plant growth potions (Epel Labwear voice line)

sleeping potions (Silver Labwear vignette)

awakening potions (Silver Labwear vignette)

magic enhancing potions (book 2)

breathing underwater potions (book 3)

a potion that changes one part of your body to that of an animal's (book 3)

itch-relief potion (Lost in the Book with Stitch)

potion that heals burns instantly (Jamil Labwear vignette)

On the subject of poisons, no specific kinds are mentioned as far as I'm aware. There's a Poison Refining class (Cater Labwear vignettes), but we don't really get specifics. When poisons are talked about, it's usually in reference to the Fairest Queen or the Pomefiore dorm leader being skilled in making potent poisons, or it's Kalim talking about the many attempts on his life and unnamed poison antidotes. There may be more mentioned in other places, but at this time I don't have the capacity to check every single event and vignette. If you know of any more that aren’t listed here, please let me know and I can update the list!!

It should also be noted that "potions" can also be used for other purposes. This includes creating special effects for movies (mentioned in Vil's Labwear vignettes) and enhancing the effects of skincare (book 6, Azul Ceremonial Robes, etc.).

You'll notice that the effects of these potions can also be achieved via regular spellcasting. (In fact, we see Adeuce practicing color changing magic in Floyd's Labwear vignettes + Vil using color changing magic to help himself hide from paparazzi, etc., Jack's/Malleus's/Azul's UMs also allow them to do things without the help of potions.) Because of this, I believe that potions are meant to be an alternative way of spellcasting without actually needing to use magic. This makes already prepared potions usable by mages who don't want to expend energy/build blot as well as by NON-MAGES.

Within the world of TWST, there is an occupation known as the “medical mage”, who appear to combine magic and medicine into their practice. Furthermore, what is called “Potionology” in EN is written as 魔法薬学 (literally, "magic pharmaceuticals") in JP, implying that there is, in fact, an intersection between magic and medicine. This is similar to how "technomancy" is described to be the cross between magic and technology.

In terms of a "healing potion", there are instances which show that a magic potion may heal or at least speed up the body's natural healing process. For example, in 7-68 of the main story, Baur gives Lilia something to drink to help him with the dire blow he just took. It doesn't appear to restore him to full health though, as Lilia states he still needs rest afterward. In EN, they use the term "potion" but in JP they use "薬" (kusuri), which is "medicine". Baur qualifies the character with "魔法" (maho), which is "magic", so the term he's using is "magic medicine". This is probably the closest thing to a "healing" potion that we know of in the TWST lore.

So technically, yes, TWST has "healing potions". I wouldn’t say there is one blanket cure-all potion though; based on what we know of potionology and how it’s very similar to irl chemistry classes, we can assume that there are generalized “healing potions” but that there must also be far more specialized and targeted ones, similar to medicine irl or non-enchanted or non-magic infused medicine. This is supported by Riddle mentioning a potion that instantaneously heals burns, implying that there is no “cure-all”.

I would imagine that, like transformation potions, “healing potions” would have to be highly regulated since they’re basically a drug 💀 (There would probably be OTC types too, given proper governmental approval!)

[imagineinside]

Eternal Claws (Logan Howlett x Fem!Reader) Chapter 2

Chapter 1: https://www.tumblr.com/imagineinside/760089693618618368/eternal-claws-logan-howlett-x-femreader-chapter?source=share

A/N: First of all, thank you guys for all the love on the first chapter! I was very worried about if people would actually enjoy the story I have planned for you and Logan ;). This next chapter focuses now on the grown reader, who is more mature and confident in herself. Please let me know if you want to see any specific tropes or moments in the future chapters, I am keeping the storyline rather broad as I continue building this world. :D

Summary: At a young age of 16, you find yourself saved from a group of hunters by no other mutant than The Wolverine, who reluctantly becomes your protector during your first heat. As weeks pass and you recover, a complex bond forms between yourself and the powerful mutant who had saved you.

Seven years later, now a confident young woman with refined mutant abilities, you encounter Wolverine again. Despite your growth and newfound strength, old feelings resurface as Wolverine returns from a secretive mission. As you navigate the challenges of your powers and your unspoken connection with him, you must come to terms with your past and the burgeoning feelings that might redefine your future.

Current Applicable Warnings: 18+ (semi-explicit story), canon-typical violence, age gap (like 200+ with a 25 yr old), Alpha!Logan, Omega!Reader, a/o/b universe, sexual tension cause I live for that sh*t, pining, past (complicated) relationships, angst, fluff, more to come.

Word Count: 3,102 the hair flick makes me feral

Seven Years Later

Jumping out of bed, you completed your daily routine: rinsed off in the shower, brushed your teeth, and took your inhibitors before going to meet Cyclops and Jean in the cafeteria. You had met the two other mutants pretty early into your career at the school, and trained with them since then. They were rather taken aback by your mutation at first, with stealing life to provide it to something else and all, but they had grown to see the benefits.

You don’t see the Wolverine very much anymore, though he did teach your History courses up until you turned 18. Once that point hit, after your 18th birthday, you two developed a rather… complex friendship. If anyone had asked you if you were friends, both of you would have denied it. 

But those late night sparring sessions, where Logan would push you to the point of burnout, where he would inevitably carry you back to your room once your legs gave out… those moments told a different story. Or the morning after where he would wake you up with a knock on your door and hand you a stack of pancakes with chocolate chips, just the way you liked it. And you would ask him to stay to keep you company while you read. And even though he would never admit it to you or anyone else, he loved the calming sound of your voice reading to him in the early morning.

And perhaps he was there for entirely selfish reasons.

You lived in that blissful existence until Professor X sent Logan overseas for a confidential mission. He had been gone for nearly three years without a word to you or anyone else. Though who was counting, right?

You had noticed a while back, before he left the school, that Logan liked to hang around Jean a lot… but you didn’t let it bother you at all. 

Not at all.

Not.

At.

All. 

Your dear friend, Jean, had grown breathtaking over the years, her powers right alongside her. Any Alpha would be attracted to such a powerful Omega, it just makes sense. Still, you can’t help but feel a tad sorry for Scott. The Beta has done everything to keep up with Jean and Logan.

Of course, you have grown into yourself as well over time. The past three years especially. Your face lost its childish features, your curves becoming more defined every year. The rigorous training you had put your body through over the last seven years had filled you out nicely, though that was only a positive side effect. You just never wanted to be as weak as you were before. Ever again.

Walking into the cafeteria, you surveyed the crowd of fellow students and teachers alike, but you were surprised to see a second set of shoulders sitting beside your redheaded friend. Clad in a leather jacket with spiked hair. Logan wasn’t supposed to be back for another couple of months, at least according to the Professor.

“Logan,” His name left your mouth in a puff of air. It felt as if you were seeing a ghost after such a long time. Part of you thought he may have just up and vanished when he had left for that mission. Seeing him again felt… surreal.

The Wolverine turned in his chair, brow raised in that way it always was, though it fell when his piercing gaze landed on you from across the room. For a moment that lasted no longer than a heartbeat, you were afraid he would somehow not recognize you. But it was like the Professor had frozen everyone around you for an instant, everything else simply fell away. You could feel that stupid childhood crush come creeping back to the surface. 

He spent your first heat protecting you, so what? That was his job. You were too immature for him then, he probably still thinks about you the same damn way.

“Vitalia,” Logan called out your codename in a way of greeting, that look in his eyes making you feel invincible for a brief moment. Then the powerful mutant was rising from his chair and moving through the busy cafeteria to get to you. His shoulders moved in that same powerful way they always had, with a confidence that made your knees feel weak. When he finally stopped before you, you were toe-to-toe with each other. Jeez you had forgotten how tall this man was. “I wasn’t sure if I’d ever see you again,” he whispered before reaching down and wrapping his large arms around you in a bear hug you had forgotten always felt so good.

You didn’t fight as your eyes fluttered closed and you took a long, deep breath of his pinewood and leather scent. A scent that reminded you of comfort and home. A scent that you haven’t smelled since the day he left.

The Professor had locked Logan’s room upon him leaving the campus. At the time, it felt like just another nail in the coffin to you that the Wolverine was gone. But over time, you just wanted to smell him again, and cursed the fact that you couldn’t walk into his room to see and smell all he had left behind.

It was rare for you two to hug, though not unheard of. Despite your childish hope of having Logan as an–ahem–intimate partner, in your mind hugging was a line you rarely crossed with each other.

For the Wolverine, though, he just needed to make sure you were kept safe. You meant too much to him to let you go. But you didn’t know that… yet.

“Where did they send you?” You gently asked him as you rubbed at his back. 

It was a common occurrence for him to come back from missions, or–hell–even come to your room after a night terror looking for comfort. The first time it had happened, you think you were almost 20 at the time, he had just returned from a failed rescue mission for a young mutant boy. You were just getting ready for bed when a hard knock sounded at your door. Thinking that it was Jean returning your Math textbook, you opened the door, only to find a towering, battered looking Wolverine on the other side.

“Can I come in?” He had asked, his voice dark and hoarse.

You nodded for him to enter, closing the door behind him.

“What’s the matter?” You asked him as you pulled out your desk chair, not sure if it was the right time to take a seat next to him on the bed.

Logan swallowed, the sound echoing in the quiet room. “He didn’t make it.”

“The boy you were sent to find?”

All he could do was nod his head.

“Lo, I am so sorry,” you replied, tears pricking at your eyes. “Whatever happened it wasn’t your fault.”

Logan gritted his teeth together, his forearm flexing as he clenched and unclenched his hand over and over. Though you weren’t afraid of him, you never could be. “The townspeople… Not only was he a mutant but he presented as Omega.” A sob ripped from his throat, a sound you had never heard him produce before. “He never stood a chance.”

“Oh God,” you couldn’t say anything else… do anything else. You didn’t want to know what– “Do you need to stay here? I can sleep on the floor.”

He gave a solemn nod and ran a hand through his mussed hair. “Thank you,” came his response. You gave him a sad smile before rising to gather a blanket and pillow for the floor. Before you could get very far, Logan’s large hand was holding your cheek and his thumb rubbed away a tear streaking down your face. His hazel eyes felt like they were piercing through you, as if they were trying to capture you a million times over. Like he was afraid you would be gone the second he blinked. “I’m so glad that it wasn’t you… It wasn’t you.” He repeated, as if needing to prove it to himself.

You laid awake that night, listening to his heavy breathing as he cradled one of your shirts that he had asked for close to his face. By the time you fell asleep, you woke again to your door being shut closed, the shadow of Logan disappearing down the hallway.

You tried to ignore the fact that after leaving your room at night, he would move down the hall and knock on Jean’s door. You never told him or Jean that you knew what they were doing. It wasn’t worth the heartache for you. You just wanted to be there for a close companion, a friend… of sorts.

“They sent me to Russia,” he grumbled into your shoulder before straightening up and untangling his arms from around you, “I went in to infiltrate an illegal mutant testing program. And to free Professor X’s old friend…” As his voice trailed off, you got the hint he wasn’t in the mood to discuss it further. 

Instead, you gave him a watery smile and, before you could truly think about what you were doing, you rose onto your toes and planted a kiss on his cheek. “Welcome back, old man,” you whispered, only pausing enough to watch his nose twitch and his pupils expand to the rim, an animalistic look hidden in his eyes. You quickly turned away to try to hide the fact that your cheeks were quickly turning a shade of red.

But he caught it, he always did. And he would keep that look of yours ingrained in his mind, somewhere deep inside for him to peek at when he needed it the most.

You cleared your throat and strode towards the table, “It must be nice to catch up with everyone.”

“I came here to find you first,” his response had your steps faltering and mind reeling. You would have thought he wanted to see Jean or Professor X first, not… you.

You had to come to a complete stop when you saw the plate that was waiting for you at your normal eating spot. A stack of… warm chocolate chip pancakes.

You never stood a chance against the current of waterworks that came pouring out of you. Turning and sobbing into Logan’s chest, your heart so full of joy and relief that he was here.

* * *

“God I wish you never came back,” you spat at Logan from across the ring, spitting blood from your mouth onto the gray floor. The tooth he had knocked free hurt like a bitch as it regrew into place.

Over the years, especially these last three, you’ve been growing more and more with your mutant abilities. And apparently, with the ability to control life and all that, you can heal yourself at speeds that rival the Wolverine.

“Since Professor X told me you can heal now, I don’t have to hold back.” Logan laughed as he lunged forward, this time with two claws out on either fist. You made a mistake to block your upper body as he jammed both sharp ass knives into your legs, making you yell out in pain.

You solidified your place on the ground behind swinging you right arm upwards, hitting him in the jaw hard enough to knock him backwards and to get those damn, stupid fucking adamantium cat claws out of you. 

“Hey, sweetheart, you’re talking out loud again.” Logan called as he rose from the ground, both his claws retracting into his arms.

“Good, I hope you know how much I hate those things.” You seethed back at him as you walked from the ring to grab a drink of water. “Those fuckers have pierced holes in my mattress and sheets far too many times.”

Logan’s hearty laugh followed you to the bench, making it impossible to hide your own smile spreading across your face. “Hey, at least you’re strong enough to walk out of here on your own two feet now.”

Your smile falls faster than it started. “Yeah,” you sighed, “at least that.”

“You have gotten a lot stronger since the last time I was here.” Logan said, his voice coming from close behind you. For a brief moment, you thought you felt the ghost of a touch around your waist, but when you turned around there was nothing there. “Listen, um…” he let out a harsh laugh, almost like a scoff,  “I’m not very good at this kind of stuff which you know, but… I am sorry I left for so long.”

Maybe two years ago you would have relished those words. An apology coming from the big, angry Wolverine. But now, it just made you feel like a child. It made you feel like you were just a kid he felt like he was in charge of still. “I can take care of myself, Logan.”

“I know that,” he rushed to say, “I didn’t mean to imply you–”

“Scott, Jean and I are being sent on a mission.” You let the words tumble out of your mouth into the space between you. It felt like acid pouring out of you, leaving steaming piles on the floor that you could no longer cross.

“What?” Logan asked, shaking his head.

“Professor X wants us to go on our first mission.”

“No, I heard that. It’s just… you’re too young still.” Logan growled, his hands balling into fists at his sides. “I’m going to talk to the Profess–”

“Please, don’t!” You begged as you grabbed onto his arm when he turned to leave. Thankfully, it stopped him in his tracks. You looked down at where your hand was clasped around his wrist and released with a hiss, as if the touch had burned you. “I need this, Logan. Jean and Scott do too. I mean, it’s not their first mission but they need more experience out there.”

“When’s your next heat due?”

You felt yourself bristle at him, a growl crawling up your throat, “What the fuck does that have to do with anything?”

“There’s no way I’m letting you go out there on a mission if your heat is coming soon.” He growled and snapped his teeth at you. The look in his eyes made you recoil back into yourself, you hated when your secondary gender bowed to his. You weren’t any less powerful than him, so why did you feel like you had to listen to him? You didn’t even feel this way with the Professor.

“You don’t get to decide that for me!” You yelled back, despite your Omega reeling back from yelling at an Alpha. God, you hated those words. “You let Jean go out there even though she’s an Omega.” You hated throwing your friend's name out there just to prove a point.

Logan scoffed and tossed his head back, “That’s completely different, Vitalia.”

“What, because you’re just sleeping with her?”

A deadly silence fell over the otherwise empty training room.

Logan breathed heavily and took a step towards you, making your knees bend against the bench behind you and you fell to the wooden surface. “You don’t know shit about that,” he said, his voice eerily calm.

“And you don’t know shit about what I’m capable of.” You said, your voice losing its vigor as tears pricked your eyes. “You were gone for three years, Logan. Do you have any idea how much I needed you?”

“I know,” he replied, his voice retreating back to its calm, bassy tone.

“But I’m not the same little girl anymore, alright?” You begged to be recognized, your voice becoming watery with the tears in your eyes. “I need this mission.”

You watched Logan’s Adam's apple bob in his throat as he stepped back from you. “I know.” He reached forward and offered a hand to help pull you up. Hesitantly, you laced your hands together and tugged upwards, rising from the seat. “Just make sure to be safe. And come back to m–to us.”

You rolled your eyes and shoved at his shoulder in an attempt to lighten the mood. “I will, dad.”

“Hey,” he snapped at you as a smile played on his lips, “we talked about that.”

“I know, I know… it reminds you how old you are, old man.”

“Wow, you’re really asking for it aren’t you?”

You giggled to yourself and swayed your hips as you walked towards the exit (completely missing the way Logan watched every sway of your hips like his life depended on it). “I have no idea what you’re talking about,” you said with a wink.

A quick growl behind you was the only warning you received before you were tackled to the ground, an assault of tickles roaming across your ribs and under your armpits. Your laughter was contagious as it bounced around the room, Logan’s own baritone laughter mixing with yours. He hadn’t felt joy like this in so long. “I yield, I yield!” You yelled out.

His fingers stopped roaming as your laughter died out, and you realized how compromising of a position you were in during your attempt to escape. Logan was nestled between your legs, his torso keeping you spread open beneath him. And it just became inappropriate for your friend to have his shirt off, a heat forming in the bottom of your stomach as your eyes grazed along his happy trail that disappeared beneath his gray sweatpants. The need to peel down the band on his pants to see what that trail led to was overwhelming. You watched his pecs twitch as he leaned backwards, his large hands coming to rest on your hips. You wished he would reach around you and pull you closer to him, let you grind against him until you found a release that would have you screaming his name…

Fuck, you forgot he can sense your arousal and heartbeat.

You watched his pupils dilate for the second time that day, his eyes darkening as his grip tightened on your hips…

Clearing your throat you pushed away from him, and he let you go with little resistance as you slipped through his hands. “I’m gonna take a shower and meet Jean and Scott to go over mission details.” You weren’t sure why you felt the need to tell him that, but watching as he sat there looking wrecked because of you made your heart do something very strange.

Giving him one quick nod, you walked out of the room, running away from the man who had the power to destroy your heart.

Taglist (omg I can't believe I have one of these, love y'all): @kingdomhate , @sadslasher13 , @bontensbabygirl , @ferkillia , @coocoocachoogotscrewed , @craftycaptain.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

More Art-Related Vocabulary

Abstract Expressionist: An artistic movement of the mid-20th century emphasizing an artist’s freedom to express attitudes and emotions, usually through nonrealistic means.

Age of Exploration (also, Age of Discovery): From the early 15th century to the early 17th century, European ships traveled around the world in search of new trading routes, lands, and partners to supply an ever-growing European market.

Albumen silver print: A photograph made using a process that was prevalent until the 1890s. The paper is coated with albumen (egg whites), and the image is created using a solution of silver salts.

Brayer: A hand roller used for applying ink to relief printing blocks or occasionally for the direct application of paint or ink to a surface.

Caricature: A representation in either literature or visual art that includes a ridiculous distortion or exaggeration of body parts or physical characteristics to create a comic or gross imitation.

Ceramics: Vessels of clay made by using a variety of shaping techniques and then hardening or firing the clay with heat at a high temperature.

Chasing: A term encompassing two processes in metalworking: (a) modeling decorative patterns on a hand-shaped sheet-metal surface using punches applied to the front, and (b) finishing and refining a cast sculpture.

Classical: Describes a prime example of quality or “ideal” beauty. It often refers to the culture, art, literature, or ideals of the ancient Greek or Roman world, especially that of Greece in the 4th and 5th centuries B.C.

Collage: An art form and technique in which pre-existing materials or objects are arranged and attached as part of a two-dimensional surface.

Color palette: (a) A set of colors that makes up an image or animation, and (b) the group of colors available to be used to create an image.

Composition: The process of arranging artistic elements into specific relationships to create an art object.

Daguerreotype: An early method of photography produced on a silver plate or a silver-covered copper plate made sensitive to light.

Exoticism: Fascination with and exploration and representation of unfamiliar cultures and customs through the lens of a European way of thinking, especially in the 19th century.

Expressionism: A style of art inspired by an artist’s subjective feelings rather than objective or realistic depictions based on observation. Expressionism as a movement is mainly associated with early 20th century German artists interested in exploring the spiritual and emotional aspects of human existence.

Gelatin silver print: A photograph made through a chemical process in which a negative is printed on a surface coated with an emulsion of gelatin (an animal protein) containing light-sensitive silver salts.

Illuminated manuscript: Comes from the Latin words illuminare (to throw light upon, lighten, or brighten), manus (hand), and scriptus from the verb scribere (to write). A handwritten book, usually made from specially prepared animal skins, in which richly colored and sometimes gilded decorations, such as borders and illustrations, accompany the text.

Illuminator: A craftsman or artist who specializes in the art of painting and adorning manuscripts with decorations.

Impressionist: Referring to the style or theories of Impressionism, a theory or practice in painting in which objects are depicted by applying dabs or strokes of primary unmixed colors in order to evoke reflected light. Impressionism was developed by French painters in the late 19th century.

Inking plate: A flat surface used for rolling ink out in preparation for applying ink to a plate or block.

Inscription: A historical, religious, or other kind of record that is cut, impressed, painted, or written on stone, brick, metal, or other hard surface.

Source Art Vocabulary pt. 1

More: Word Lists

[grey-sorcery]

[Title]: Spellcasting At an Intermediate Level

Related Reading (*Highly recommended)

Basics of Spellcasting Intermediate Gnosis* Energy Work Fundamentals Intermediate Energy Work Advanced Energy Work Energetic Constructs Anchors Basics of Astral Projection Non-Sympathetic Magic (Patreon Exclusive) Threshold Theory Correspondences* Visualization: Effective Implementation* Spell Logs* Taglocks Bias in Witchcraft Magical Potency*

Introduction

So you’ve mastered the basics, Congratulations! Intermediate witchcraft represents a transformative phase in a practitioner's journey, where foundational knowledge is expanded and refined through deeper engagement with esoteric principles. Here, practitioners gain an enhanced understanding of gnosis—the direct, experiential knowledge of magical and spiritual truths—and learn to navigate the intricacies of circumstance, aligning their practices with environmental, social, astrological, and energetic influences. Daily rituals become more nuanced, incorporating diverse components such as consistent mindfulness and complex energy work. New methods of spellcasting emerge, emphasizing the importance of precise spell dictation and meticulous record keeping to track efficacy and refine techniques. Continuous learning is vital, as practitioners explore new magical theories and methods while actively participating in their community. This dynamic interplay of personal development and communal exchange fosters a richer, more sophisticated approach to witchcraft, facilitating both individual growth and collective wisdom.

Gnosis & Circumstance

Gnosis

Gnosis, in the context of magical practice, refers to a profound state of experiential knowledge that transcends ordinary cognition. It is not merely intellectual understanding but a deep, intuitive grasp of the underlying currents that shape reality. Gnosis allows the practitioner to perceive and interact with the subtle energies that permeate the world, enabling the manipulation of these energies for specific outcomes. This state is often achieved through altered states of consciousness, wherein the mind operates differently than the mundane, everyday awareness.

Altered states of consciousness are essential for the acquisition and application of gnosis. These states can be described as a spectrum of mental conditions where normal cognitive processes are suspended, allowing access to layers of reality that are usually obscured by ordinary perception. These states can range from light trances to deep, immersive experiences where the boundaries between the self and the environment dissolve. Such states are not merely a psychological phenomenon but are understood as a means of attuning the practitioner's mind to the frequencies that govern the subtle aspects of existence. The deeper the state of consciousness, the more profound the level of gnosis achieved, and thus, the more potent the magical workings can become. 

However, a state of gnosis can be aimed and corralled into a more specific subset of conceptualizations. This technique involves the deliberate construction of intricate thought patterns and networks of ideas that are imbued with the practitioner’s will. These mental networks function as a framework upon which the energies of the spell can be organized and directed.

This practice requires a high level of mental discipline and clarity, as the constructs must be maintained with precision. Any lapse in focus can disrupt the integrity of the mental network, weakening the spell's effectiveness. The process of conceptualization is, therefore, both a mental and energetic act, where the practitioner not only organizes their thoughts but also aligns their energies with the desired outcome. 

Circumstance

Circumstance refers to the external factors and conditions that can influence the effectiveness of magical workings. While gnosis is an internal state, circumstance encompasses the external environment, the emotional and energetic states of those involved, and the alignment of time and space. A deep understanding of circumstance allows the practitioner to harmonize their workings with the natural flow of the natural world, enhancing the potency of their magic.

External factors serve as amplifiers or dampeners of the energy that the practitioner seeks to manipulate. When the circumstances align favorably, the energies flow more smoothly, and the desired outcome is more likely to manifest. Conversely, if the circumstances are in opposition to the desired outcome, the practitioner may encounter resistance, making the working less effective or even entirely ineffectual. Several elements constitute the circumstantial factors that can influence magical workings. These include environmental conditions, the emotional and energetic states of those involved, and temporal and celestial alignments.

The environment in which a spell is cast can have a profound impact on its success. Factors such as weather, temperature, and the presence of natural elements can either support or hinder the flow of energy. For instance, a spell cast during a storm may harness the chaotic and powerful energies of the weather, amplifying its effect. On the other hand, trying to cast a spell in a stifling, oppressive environment may drain the practitioner’s energy, reducing the spell’s potency.

The emotional and energetic states of both the practitioner and those nearby are critical components of circumstance. Emotions can generate powerful energetic fields that may influence the outcome of a spell, either positively or negatively. A practitioner in a state of calm, focused determination is more likely to channel energy effectively than one who is distracted or agitated. Similarly, the emotional states of others in the vicinity can also impact the spell. If those nearby are supportive and aligned with the spell’s purpose, their energies can contribute to its success. Conversely, if they are skeptical, fearful, or antagonistic, their negative energies can interfere with the spell, weakening its effect.

Timing is a crucial element in determining the efficacy of spellwork, with astrological alignments and aspects playing a significant role. The positions and interactions of celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, planets, and stars are believed to influence the energies available at any given moment, thereby impacting the success of a spell. 

For instance, a conjunction of Venus and Jupiter might be seen as particularly auspicious for rituals involving love and prosperity, as the energies of these planets synergize to amplify such intentions. In contrast, a square aspect between Mars and Saturn might introduce obstacles or resistance, making it an inopportune time for initiating new ventures. Similarly, certain planetary transits, like Mercury retrograde, are often viewed as periods for reflection and review rather than action.

Combining Gnosis and Circumstance for Effective Spellcasting

Combining gnosis and circumstance is essential for effective spellcasting. While gnosis provides the practitioner with the internal focus and control needed to direct subtle energies, circumstance ensures that these energies are aligned with the natural flow of the world. The integration of these two aspects allows the practitioner to cast spells that are both powerful and harmonious with the surrounding environment. The most effective spells are those where gnosis and circumstance are perfectly aligned. In such workings, the practitioner’s internal state is in harmony with the external environment, creating a synergistic effect that amplifies the power of the spell.

To achieve this, the practitioner must carefully prepare both internally and externally. Internally, they must reach a state of gnosis through techniques such as meditation, breathwork, and mental networking. Externally, they must assess and, if necessary, modify the circumstances to align with the desired outcome. This might involve choosing the right time and place for the spell, ensuring that the emotional and energetic states of all involved are aligned, and selecting an environment that supports the working.

The integration of gnosis and circumstance is not a passive process but requires active engagement and awareness. The practitioner must be attuned to both their internal state and the external environment, constantly assessing and adjusting as necessary to ensure optimal alignment. This might involve making small adjustments, such as altering the timing of the spell or choosing a different location, or more significant changes, such as working to shift the emotional or energetic states of those involved in the working. The difficulty lies in the potential to disrupt the state of gnosis by becoming too rigid, or by allowing the mind to wander too far. Oftentimes, gnosis is broken for simple reasons such as: not having incantations memorized, not knowing exactly where tools or objects are located at the time they are to be used, and being interrupted by another person in person or through cell phone notification(s).

In more complex workings, where multiple practitioners are involved, the importance of aligning gnosis and circumstance becomes even more pronounced. Each practitioner must not only achieve their own state of gnosis but must also harmonize their energies with those of the other participants. This requires a high degree of coordination and communication, ensuring that all involved are in a similar state of awareness and that the external circumstances are conducive to the collective working. The coordination of group magic might involve shared meditative practices, synchronized breathwork, or collective rituals that align the energies of all participants. The external circumstances must also be carefully managed, ensuring that the timing, location, and emotional environment are supportive of the collective intention. When all these elements are in alignment, the combined energies of the group can create a powerful and unified force, greatly enhancing the effectiveness of the spell.

Daily Practices

Integrating spellcraft and spellcasting into daily life is a practice that not only elevates mundane routines but also deepens the practitioner's connection with the underlying forces that shape their existence. By weaving magical practices into everyday activities, one can cultivate a continuous awareness of the subtle currents of energy that permeate all aspects of life. This approach to spellcraft emphasizes the importance of consistent engagement and intentional living, enabling practitioners to harness and direct these energies with precision and purpose.

Incorporating simple rituals and spells into daily life does not require elaborate preparations or rarefied tools; instead, it hinges on the practitioner's ability to imbue routine actions with deeper significance. These daily rituals can be as simple as lighting a candle in the morning, stirring a cup of tea, or walking barefoot on the earth. Each of these actions can be transformed into a magical practice through conscious focus, gnosis, and an understanding of the symbolic and energetic dimensions of the act.

Mindfulness & Energy Work

Magical mindfulness involves cultivating a heightened awareness of the present moment, with an emphasis on the subtle energies that surround and influence us. By integrating this awareness into daily activities, practitioners can transform routine tasks into opportunities for magical work.

One way to incorporate magical mindfulness into daily life is through breathwork. Breath is the most immediate and accessible form of life force, and by consciously controlling the breath, practitioners can influence their own energetic state. A simple practice is to take a few moments each day to focus on the breath, breathing deeply and evenly. This can be done during any mundane activity—such as washing dishes, commuting, or walking. By synchronizing the breath with the rhythm of the activity, the practitioner creates a harmonic resonance between their internal and external environments. This practice not only calms the mind and body but also enhances the practitioner’s ability to channel and direct energy.

Another practice that embodies magical mindfulness is the art of visualization through sensory engagement. As the practitioner goes about their day, they can focus on the sensory experiences of their surroundings—textures, colors, sounds, and scents—using these as focal points for meditation and magical work. For example, while washing hands, the practitioner might focus on the sensation of the water flowing over their skin, envisioning it as a cleansing force that washes away negativity. By engaging the senses in this way, the practitioner deepens their connection to the present moment and harnesses the power of sensory perception in their magical practice.

Energy work, too, can be seamlessly integrated into daily life. Practices such as grounding, centering, and warding can be performed at any time, allowing the practitioner to maintain a balanced and protected energy field. But of all the ways to implement energy work into your daily routine, is by practicing each aspect of basic energy work. Below, I’ve listed each of the basic 7 aspects of energy work. This practice is detailed, multi-layered, and sequential in its approach, suggesting that each aspect builds upon the mastery of the previous one. Let us explore each aspect in detail, considering practical implications. It is recommended that each step is done daily, up to what is feasible.

[These practices are further detailed in my Energy Work Fundamentals and Intermediate Energy Work articles.] (See: Related Reading)

1st Aspect: The Act of Resealing

Concept and Practice:

The first aspect involves a technique of energy reclamation and reintegration. When one experiences intense emotions or sensations (such as joy, awe, fear, anger, or beauty), there is a natural release of energy, often physically felt as "goosebumps" or a tingling sensation. This practice instructs the practitioner to become aware of this released energy and to gather it back into their body. The process described involves feeling for external energies, which should feel similar to smoke or fog, which is then drawn back into the body and stored in the Wellsource. 

Significance:

The act of resealing is significant because it emphasizes the importance of energy conservation and control. By reclaiming and reintegrating energy, one ensures that their energy is not dissipated into the environment but rather retained for personal use. This practice could be seen as foundational, ensuring that the practitioner maintains a stable and contained energetic field.

Mastery:

Able to absorb energy from any given location on the body.

Able to absorb through an area of any possible given size.

Able to absorb at any given rate of flow

2nd Aspect: The Act of Expansion

Concept and Practice:

This aspect focuses on the expansion of one's energy field beyond the physical body. The practitioner is instructed to first become acutely aware of their skin and the sensations across it. Then, by breathing into their wellsource, they are to expand this energy field outward, extending their awareness beyond their physical form. The exercise is essentially an act of growing one's energetic influence and awareness to encompass the space around them. 

Significance:

The release and expansion of energy is crucial for those who wish to interact with the external world on an energetic level. By releasing energy, you can consciously feed projections and constructs into spells or spells into constructs. By expanding one's energy, the practitioner can project their awareness and influence into their surroundings, potentially affecting and interacting with external energies and entities. This practice lays the groundwork for more advanced forms of energetic manipulation.

Mastery:

Able to release energy from any given location on the body.

Able to release through an area of any possible given size.

Able to release at any given rate of flow

Able to expand energetic field and energetic awareness by extension

3rd Aspect: The Act of Form

Concept and Practice:

The third aspect introduces the concept of shaping energy into specific forms. The practitioner is instructed to draw energy from their wellsource into their hands and shape it into a sphere through minute manipulations of their energetic field in tandem with energy being released from their palms, and then into a more complex geometric shape like an octahedron. This exercise involves not just the visualization of the shape as a mould but also the tangible feeling of the energy as it takes form and becomes a distinct entity separate from the practitioner's body or field.

Significance:

Forming energy into shapes is a method of giving structure to one's energetic output. It is a step towards more precise and intentional energy work, where the practitioner can create and manipulate energetic constructs. The ability to give energy form implies control over its properties and purpose, which is vital in any advanced magical practice. Without being able to form energy, a practitioner would be unable to generate energetic constructs.

Mastery:

Able to create and maintain a sphere, octahedron, dodecahedron, tetrahedron, cube, and torus for any given amount of time.

Able to modify the form, but not size, of an object without losing or gaining energy.

4th Aspect: The Act of Density

Concept and Practice:

Here, the practitioner learns to condense their energy into a smaller, denser form. The exercise begins with a sphere of energy, which is then filled with more energy without increasing its size. Eventually, the sphere is condensed to the smallest possible point, concentrating its energy to an extreme degree.

Significance:

Density in energy work is akin to intensity or potency. By mastering this aspect, the practitioner gains the ability to concentrate vast amounts of energy into a small, powerful form. This could have numerous applications, from creating more effective energetic tools or shields to enhancing the impact of energetic or magical work. It also teaches the practitioner the importance of not just quantity of energy, but quality and concentration.

Mastery:

Able to create a form and manipulate its energetic density to any given degree without altering its size or form.

Able to generate hyper-dense energetic constructs at an infinitesimally small size.

5th Aspect: The Act of Precision

Concept and Practice:

Precision involves directing one's energy with pinpoint accuracy. The practitioner starts with their dense, microscopic sphere of energy and transforms it into a sliver, which is then directed toward a specific target. The sliver can be expanded or contracted as needed, but the focus is on the ability to direct this energy with extreme precision.

Significance:

Precision is vital in energy work, especially in applications that require targeted effects, such as healing, protective wards, or the manipulation of specific aspects of reality. By mastering precision, the practitioner ensures that their energy reaches exactly where it is intended, without waste or unintended side effects. This also involves a heightened level of control over one’s energy.

Mastery:

Able to control minute but hyper dense quanta of energy with precision without losing concentration

6th Aspect: The Act of Mitosis

Concept and Practice:

The act of mitosis involves the division of one's energy into multiple identical forms. The practitioner begins with a single sphere of energy, which is then divided into two, and then these two are divided again, continuing until the forms are innumerable. The challenge here is to maintain the energy in each form without losing any of its potency or control.

Significance:

This aspect symbolizes the ability to replicate and distribute one's energy without loss of power or coherence. It could be seen as a metaphor for creating multiple points of influence or for multitasking on an energetic level. The ability to maintain many identical forms of energy suggests a mastery of control and a deep understanding of the nature of energy itself. This skill could be essential in complex rituals, where multiple energetic tasks must be performed simultaneously.

Mastery:

Able to create a simple form and then split it into a minimum of 32 individual units, each with unique paths through space with unique velocities while maintaining size, form, and density of each form. 

7th Aspect: The Act of Frequency

Concept and Practice:

The final aspect involves the alteration of the vibrational frequency of one's own energy. The practitioner first creates a spherical form of energy and observes its natural color and vibration. Then, through intent and breath, the practitioner alters this form, changing its color and vibrational quality. The practitioner is encouraged to notice the effects of these changes on their own body and surroundings.

Significance:

Frequency in this context relates to the vibrational quality of energy, which can influence how it interacts with other energies and matter. By mastering frequency, the practitioner can fine-tune their energy to resonate with or counteract other frequencies. This skill is crucial for advanced energy work, where the practitioner needs to align their energy with specific outcomes or harmonize with external forces. This final aspect suggests a culmination of all previous skills, where the practitioner not only controls and shapes their energy but also tunes it to the desired frequency for precise and effective results.

Mastery:

Able to manipulate the qualities of any given quanta of energy to any other desired qualities, without using outside interference to accomplish it.

Integrating the Seven Aspects

The Seven Aspects together form a comprehensive system of energy mastery. Each aspect builds upon the last, leading the practitioner from basic energy reclamation to advanced manipulation of frequency. The journey through the aspects is one of increasing control, precision, and understanding of one's energy and its interaction with the world.

This system emphasizes not just the technical aspects of energy work but also the importance of awareness and intent. Each exercise requires the practitioner to be fully present and conscious of their actions, reinforcing the idea that energy work is not just about power but about mindfulness and deliberate action.

In a broader spiritual or esoteric context, mastering the Seven Aspects could be seen as a path to self-mastery, where control over one's energy equates to control over one's life force, emotions, and interactions with the universe. This path could lead to a heightened state of being, where the practitioner is in harmony with their own energy and the energies of the world around them.

Exploring New Casting Methods

Understanding the Flow and Manipulation of Energy

Energetic magic represents one of the most fundamental aspects of magical practice, revolving around the ability to perceive, harness, and manipulate the subtle currents of energy that permeate all things. At its core, this practice demands sensitivity to these energies, allowing the practitioner to tap into these forces and mold them according to their will. Doing so expands the means through which practitioners can cast spells.

To cast purely energetic magic, one must first recognize that energy is not confined to physical forms or measurable quantities. It exists in a spectrum that ranges from the dense, tangible energies found in material objects to the more elusive, subtle forces that underlie space. This energy can be found in the natural world, within the human body, and even in the abstract connections between entities and ideas. Practitioners of energetic magic learn to perceive these flows, sensing the way energy moves, accumulates, and disperses. This heightened awareness is crucial, as the manipulation of these forces requires a delicate balance of precision and strength.

Astral Magic

Astral magic involves the exploration and manipulation of spatial and non-physical dimensions of existence. Central to this practice is the concept of astral projection, wherein the practitioner consciously separates their awareness from their physical body, enabling them to navigate these unseen realms.

In this state, the practitioner navigates expansive realms of consciousness and environments that elude the physical senses. These experiences are often characterized as intensely vivid and beyond the scope of ordinary reality, with perceptions that surpass conventional sensory limitations. Importantly, such experiences are independent of physical senses, and relying on practices like visualization can actually obstruct the practitioner's efforts. The sensory experience of these non-physical planes defies easy description, leading many practitioners to resort to analogies. While vision might serve as a metaphor for certain energetic perceptions, it falls short in capturing essential elements like dimensionality and scale. Moreover, though spirits may traverse planes accessible to the practitioner, they do not reside within these realms. A key marker of a genuine non-physical experience is the absence of interaction with spirits, particularly the lack of any structured spirit society. The presence of such a concept should immediately raise suspicion, as it suggests personal narrative rather than authentic experience.

During astral projection, a practitioner retains the ability to cast spells with full efficacy. This approach is particularly effective for performing non-sympathetic magic, which does not depend on the use of a taglock or the principles of sympathetic magic. Unlike sympathetic magic, which often requires a physical link to the target, non-sympathetic magic operates independently of such connections. However, it is important to note that this form of spellcasting is most efficiently conducted within our standard spatial dimension, rather than in any extradimensional spaces. The reason for this is that the practitioner needs direct access to their intended target, something that is best achieved within the confines of the physical world. 

Attempting to cast in an extradimensional context can introduce complexities that may diminish the spell's effectiveness, as the practitioner's connection to the target becomes less direct and more abstract. While astral projection offers a unique vantage point and can provide valuable insights, the mechanics of casting often require the practitioner to be firmly anchored in their native spatial reality. This ensures that the magical energy is channeled precisely and reaches its intended target without unnecessary distortion or delay. Thus, while astral projection can complement and enhance spellwork, it is most effective when combined with the physical presence required for non-sympathetic magic. 

[This practice is further detailed in my Non-Sympathetic Magic article on Patreon.] (See: Related Reading)

Fate Magic

Fate magic, a branch of occult practice that deals with the manipulation of destiny, operates on the belief that the threads of one's life are not entirely fixed, but can be influenced or redirected through magical means. This concept is rooted in the idea that fate is not a singular, unchangeable force, but rather a complex web of possibilities and probabilities, each interconnected and subject to change. This type of working becomes easier to conceptualize if these strings of fate are thought of as having an energetic make up. 

In fate magic, the practitioner seeks to understand the underlying patterns and forces that shape their own life and the lives of others. This involves a deep exploration of the concept of destiny, recognizing that while some aspects of life may be predestined or inevitable, others remain fluid and open to influence. The practitioner learns to identify the key moments or decisions that hold the greatest potential for altering the course of fate, and through their magical work, they seek to nudge these moments in the desired direction.

Fate magic opens an interesting discussion of the philosophy of self-determination vs. predetermination, or free-will vs. predetermined action. In my personal experience working with fate in magical practice, I have found that some arguments of both stances resonate true. Especially when multiverse theory is considered. 

Techniques for Influencing and Altering Fate

The practitioner must first gain a clear understanding of the current trajectory of events, often through direct experience, visions derived from dreams, and divinatory practices such as cartomancy, cleromancy, or scrying. These methods provide glimpses into the possible futures that lie ahead, allowing the practitioner to identify the points of greatest influence as well as potential paths of least resistance.

Once the practitioner has identified the target, they can employ a variety of techniques to influence fate. One common method involves the use of sympathetic magic, where the practitioner creates a symbolic representation of the desired outcome and then enacts a series of ritual actions designed to bring it into reality. This may involve the use of candles, herbs, or other ritual tools, each chosen for their specific correspondences to the desired outcome.

Another technique involves the direct manipulation of fate strings. In this practice, the practitioner seeks to alter the flow of energy through these strings, either consciously or by severing them through a cord-cutting ritual. The energies within fate strings are complex and difficult to transmute as a whole, but can be gradually adjusted by introducing various energetic compounds. The rate of flow through fate strings is easier to accomplish, however. These practices can be done using visualization as a tool, but not as the practice. Rather, the practitioner needs to affect the string through its connecting point at the Wellsource.

Common examples of Fate-Altering Spells and Rituals

Fate-altering spells and rituals can take many forms, depending on the specific goals and circumstances of the practitioner. Here are a few examples that illustrate the diversity and complexity of fate magic:

- The Web of Fate Ritual (European Paganism): This sympathetic ritual involves creating a physical representation of the interconnectedness of events and choices. The practitioner constructs a web-like structure using threads or cords, each strand symbolizing a different aspect of fate. At the center of the web lies the practitioner’s goal or desired outcome. As the ritual progresses, the practitioner methodically manipulates the strands, symbolically altering the connections between different aspects of fate to guide the overall outcome towards the center. This ritual is particularly useful for complex situations where multiple factors need to be influenced simultaneously.

The Crossroads Spell (African Diaspora): Drawing from traditions that associate crossroads as places of power, this spell seeks to influence a pivotal decision or moment in the practitioner's life. The crossroads are symbolically represented, and the practitioner must meditate on the different paths available to them. Offerings are made to the forces that govern fate, asking for guidance or intervention to ensure that the chosen path leads to the desired outcome. This spell emphasizes the importance of choice and the critical moments that can determine the course of one's life.

The Turning of the Wheel (Wiccan): This spell is designed to influence the cycles and phases of life, often used when the practitioner seeks to end a period of difficulty or initiate a new phase of growth. The "wheel" represents the cycles of time and fate, and the ritual involves the physical turning of a wheel-like object, such as a disk or stone. As the wheel turns, the practitioner focuses on the transition from one phase to another, directing energy to bring about the desired change. This spell is particularly potent during natural transitions, such as solstices, equinoxes, or significant personal milestones.

Evocation, Invocation, and Spirit Contracts

It should be noted that most easily accessible information regarding Invocations and Evocations are from Ceremonial Magick sources, such as Order of The Golden Dawn, Rosicrucianism, and Thelema (Crowley). While these practices exist across many diasporas, these sources are far more published in writing since most other traditions require initiation and/or are passed down orally. These readily available sources derive most of their practices through the gradual evolution of ideas taken from Jewish, Taoist, Arab diasporic, Kemetic, and Hindu traditions combined with interpretations of medieval texts and Gnosticism. 

Evocation is the practice of calling forth spirits, deities, or other non-physical entities into the presence of the practitioner. Unlike invocation, which involves inviting an entity to enter the practitioner’s body or consciousness, evocation keeps the entity external, allowing for interaction without direct possession. This distinction is crucial, as it delineates the boundaries of influence and control in the ritual.

The purpose of evocation varies widely, ranging from seeking knowledge or guidance to requesting assistance in magical workings. The practitioner must possess a thorough understanding of the nature of the entity they intend to summon, including its attributes, strengths, weaknesses, and any historical or mythological context that might influence its behavior. This knowledge is essential not only for successful evocation but also for ensuring the safety and efficacy of the ritual.

Preparing for and Conducting Evocation

Preparation for evocation involves several key steps, each designed to create the optimal conditions for summoning the entity and ensuring a controlled interaction. The first step is the purification of the ritual space, which may involve cleansing with incense, salt, or other purifying substances. This process serves to clear any unwanted energies or influences, creating a neutral environment where the entity can manifest without interference.

Next, the practitioner must construct a protective barrier, often in the form of a circle or triangle, to contain the summoned entity and prevent it from acting beyond the confines of the ritual. This barrier is typically created using a combination of symbols, words of power, and energetic techniques, each chosen for their effectiveness in controlling the specific type of entity being evoked. The practitioner must also prepare offerings or sacrifices, depending on the nature of the entity, as a sign of respect and as a means of appeasement.

The actual process of evocation begins with the recitation of a summoning incantation, which may be drawn from traditional grimoires or composed by the practitioner. The incantation serves as a focal point for the practitioner’s will, calling the entity forth from its domain into the physical or mental plane. During this process, the practitioner must maintain a state of heightened awareness and control, as the entity may resist or challenge the summoning. Once the entity has been successfully evoked, the practitioner must engage in dialogue or negotiation, clearly stating their purpose and intentions while being mindful of the entity’s nature and potential responses.

Building Relationships with Entities

While evocation isn't necessary to interact with spirits, successful evocation often leads to ongoing relationships with the summoned entities, particularly if the practitioner intends to work with them regularly. Building a strong relationship with an entity involves mutual respect, trust, and a deep understanding of each other’s needs and capabilities.

One of the primary ways to build such a relationship is through regular offerings and rituals that honor the entity. These acts of devotion demonstrate the practitioner’s commitment and respect, fostering goodwill and cooperation. The practitioner may also seek to learn more about the entity’s preferences, attributes, and history, using this knowledge to tailor their rituals and interactions in ways that are pleasing to the entity.

In some cases, the relationship may evolve into a form of mentorship, where the entity provides the practitioner with guidance, knowledge, or power in exchange for continued offerings or services. These relationships can be highly beneficial, but they require careful management to ensure that the balance of power remains equitable and that the practitioner does not become overly reliant on the entity.

Contractual Considerations and Safety Measures

When working with powerful entities, particularly those of a more complex or dangerous nature, it is often common and necessary to establish formal agreements or contracts. These contracts outline the terms of the relationship, including what the entity will provide, what the practitioner will offer in return, and any limitations or boundaries that must be observed.

Crafting a spirit contract requires precision and clarity. The terms must be explicit and unambiguous, leaving no room for misinterpretation or exploitation. This often involves the use of traditional legalistic language or the incorporation of specific magical terms that bind the entity to the agreement. The contract may be inscribed on parchment, sealed with specific symbols or sigils, and consecrated through ritual actions to ensure its validity.

Safety measures are paramount when engaging in spirit contracts or any form of evocation. The practitioner must be aware of the potential risks, including the possibility of deception, coercion, or retaliation from the entity. Protective measures, such as the use of wards, protective talismans, or the invocation of higher powers for protection, are essential to safeguarding the practitioner and maintaining control over the ritual.

Additionally, the practitioner must be prepared for the possibility that the entity may not honor the terms of the contract or may attempt to renegotiate or alter the agreement. In such cases, the practitioner must remain firm and assertive, using the terms of the contract and their own magical authority to enforce compliance. If necessary, the practitioner should be prepared to banish the entity, using whatever means are appropriate to sever the connection and end the relationship.

Compounding Multiple Elements into a Single Spell

The principle of synergy in magical practices involves the interplay of various energetic elements to achieve a unified effect. This harmony arises when distinct components of a spell complement each other, creating a more potent and cohesive outcome. When diverse elements, such as symbols, actions, or materials, are combined, they interact in a manner that amplifies their collective influence. This can be likened to how a well-orchestrated symphony produces a richer auditory experience than individual instruments played in isolation.

The integration of various methodologies and components into a single spell demands a comprehensive understanding of their individual properties and how they interact. Multidisciplinary integration involves aligning disparate elements, each with its own specific energetic qualities and functions, into a singular operational framework. This process requires an adept grasp of how different magical practices, symbols, or rituals can be interwoven to create a cohesive spell structure. 

The psychological and emotional states of the practitioner play a significant role in the efficacy of compounded spells. Emotional resonance and mental clarity can greatly influence how well different components coalesce. For instance, a practitioner’s emotional state might affect how well they can focus and channel their energies. Emotional intensity and psychological readiness can either enhance or hinder the integration of multiple spell elements, making the practitioner’s internal state a crucial factor in the spell’s success.

While harmony is often emphasized, the strategic use of dissonance can also be valuable. Dissonance between components can create dynamic tensions that drive change or transformation. For example, contrasting elements may interact in a way that generates a powerful catalytic effect. This can be seen in situations where opposing energies or conflicting symbols are used deliberately to provoke a desired outcome or to facilitate a significant shift. The key lies in understanding how to manage and direct these tensions to achieve a productive result.

Streamlining Elements into a Unified Conceptualization

A coherent magical framework is essential for the successful execution of a spell involving multiple elements. This framework serves as a blueprint, guiding how each component fits into the overall design. It involves outlining the purpose of each element, determining how they will interact, and establishing a clear sequence of actions. The goal is to ensure that all components work together harmoniously, with each part contributing to the intended outcome without causing conflicts or redundancies. Balancing diverse energies involves ensuring that the various components of a spell do not overshadow each other or cause imbalances. This requires a careful assessment of each element’s energetic properties and how they align with one another. Techniques such as adjustment of proportions, sequencing of actions, and modulation of intensity can help achieve this balance. The aim is to create a spell where the combined energies enhance each other, rather than compete or interfere with one another.

Conflicts and inconsistencies between spell components can undermine the spell’s effectiveness. Identifying and resolving these issues involves analyzing the potential sources of discord, such as conflicting symbolic meanings or contradictory energies. Practitioners must be adept at making adjustments, whether through reconfiguration of components or through the implementation of harmonizing techniques, to ensure that all elements work towards a common goal without causing detrimental effects.

The Benefits and Challenges of Complex Spellwork

Multi-element spells often exhibit enhanced effectiveness due to the combined potency of various components. Each element contributes its unique properties, potentially amplifying the overall impact. The precision of such spells can also be improved as different aspects address specific facets of the intended outcome, allowing for a more targeted approach. The use of multiple elements expands the scope of spellwork, allowing practitioners to address a wider range of issues or goals. This flexibility enables the adaptation of spells to different contexts or requirements, making them more versatile and applicable in diverse situations. By incorporating various techniques and materials, practitioners can tailor their spells to more precisely fit their needs.

One of the primary risks of complex spellwork is overcomplication, which can lead to energy dilution. When too many elements are incorporated without careful planning, the spell may become convoluted, with the energies becoming scattered rather than focused. This can result in diminished effectiveness or even failure of the spell.

The complexity of multi-element spells introduces a higher risk of unintended consequences. The interaction of various components can produce unexpected results, particularly if the energies are not properly balanced or if there are conflicts between elements. Practitioners must be vigilant in anticipating and managing these potential issues to avoid adverse outcomes.

Compounding multiple elements into a spell necessitates a high level of skill and knowledge. Practitioners must possess a deep understanding of each component’s properties and how they interact. This requires advanced training and experience, as well as the ability to manage complex energetic dynamics effectively.

Planning and Preparation

Each component of a spell possesses distinct properties and associations that influence its role within the spell. Assessing these properties involves understanding how each element contributes to the overall energetic structure. This includes evaluating the symbolic meanings, energetic qualities, and practical applications of each component.

Evaluating the purpose and alignment of spell components involves ensuring that each element serves the intended function and aligns with the overall goal. This includes assessing how components will interact with each other and how their properties contribute to the desired outcome. Consistency in purpose and alignment is crucial for achieving a coherent and effective spell.

Structuring a Multi-Faceted Spell

Developing a structured plan involves identifying and establishing the core components of the spell. These components form the foundation of the spell’s structure and include the primary elements that will drive its effectiveness. Each core component must be carefully selected based on its role and contribution to the overall goal.

The sequence and timing of spell components are critical to the spell’s success. Determining how and when each element will be introduced or activated ensures that the spell progresses in a coherent and orderly manner. Proper sequencing helps maintain focus and alignment, preventing disruptions or conflicts.

Integrating multiple techniques involves blending various magical systems or methodologies to create a unified approach. This may include combining different ritual practices, symbolic systems, or energetic techniques. The challenge lies in harmonizing these systems so that they complement rather than contradict each other.

Utilizing varied ritual actions involves incorporating diverse techniques and actions into the spell. This may include a combination of physical actions, verbal invocations, and mental focus. The goal is to create a dynamic and multi-faceted approach that enhances the spell’s effectiveness through diverse means.

Designing the ritual space and atmosphere involves creating an environment conducive to the spell’s success. This includes setting up physical space, arranging ritual tools, and establishing the desired ambiance. A well-designed ritual space supports the practitioner’s focus and facilitates the flow of energy.

Coordinating multiple ritual elements involves ensuring that all aspects of the ritual work together harmoniously. This includes synchronizing the timing, actions, and focus of each element to maintain a cohesive and effective ritual process. Coordination helps prevent disruptions and ensures that the spell’s components function in concert.

Execution and Follow-Up

Preparing the ritual space involves arranging the physical environment to support the spell’s execution. This includes setting up the ritual tools, creating a clean and organized space, and ensuring that the area is free from distractions or disruptions. The physical setup should reflect the nature of the spell and facilitate the practitioner’s focus and engagement.

Creating energetic boundaries involves establishing a protective and supportive field around the ritual space. This can be achieved through various methods, such as casting a circle, invoking protective forces, or using symbolic barriers. Energetic boundaries help contain the spell’s energies, prevent interference, and create a focused environment for the ritual.

Grounding and centering are preliminary rituals that prepare the practitioner for effective spellcasting. Grounding involves establishing a connection with the earth to draw stability and balance, while centering focuses on aligning the practitioner’s internal energies. These practices help the practitioner achieve a state of readiness, enhancing their ability to direct their energies and maintain focus during the spell.

Invoking protective and empowering forces involves calling upon energies or entities that support and safeguard the spell. This can include invoking deities, spirits, or elemental forces, depending on the practitioner’s tradition and preferences. The purpose is to create a supportive and secure environment that enhances the spell’s effectiveness and protects against potential negative influences.

Following the pre-defined sequence involves executing the spell according to the established plan and timing. This includes performing each action or step in the prescribed order to ensure that the energies and components interact as intended. Adhering to the sequence helps maintain the integrity of the spell and ensures that all elements contribute to the desired outcome.

Monitoring energy flow involves observing the dynamic interactions of the spell’s components and making any necessary adjustments. This may include adjusting the intensity, direction, or focus of the energies as needed. Being attuned to the flow of energy allows the practitioner to respond to any changes or issues that arise during the spellcasting process.

Observing immediate outcomes involves paying attention to any changes or reactions that occur as a result of the spell. This includes noting any shifts in energy, alterations in circumstances, or responses from individuals or entities involved. Recording these observations helps assess the initial impact of the spell and provides insights into its effectiveness.

Recording sensory and emotional responses involves documenting the practitioner’s experiences and feelings during and after the spell. This can provide valuable information about the spell’s impact and effectiveness. Sensory responses, such as changes in temperature or perception, as well as emotional reactions, can offer clues about the spell’s success and any adjustments that may be needed.

Analyzing Long-Term Effects

Analyzing long-term effects involves assessing the spell’s success in achieving its intended goals. This includes evaluating the overall impact, comparing the results with the desired outcomes, and determining whether the spell met its objectives. Long-term evaluation helps gauge the effectiveness of the spell and provides insights for future practices.

Identifying patterns and trends involves analyzing any recurring effects or outcomes that emerge over time. This can include observing consistent results, noting any trends in the spell’s effectiveness, or recognizing patterns in the response to different components. Identifying these patterns helps refine future spellwork and enhance overall efficacy.

Gathering feedback through self-reflection involves evaluating the practitioner’s own experiences and insights regarding the spell. This includes analyzing personal observations, feelings, and reactions to the spell’s outcomes. Self-reflection helps the practitioner understand their role in the spell’s success and identify areas for improvement.

Seeking external perspectives involves obtaining feedback from others who may have been involved in or observed the spell. This can include consulting with fellow practitioners, mentors, or individuals affected by the spell. External perspectives can provide additional insights and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the spell’s impact.

Adjusting and Refining Techniques for Future Spells

Analyzing challenges and failures involves reviewing any difficulties or shortcomings encountered during the spell. Identifying areas of improvement requires assessing what went wrong, understanding the causes of any issues, and determining how to address these problems in future practices. This process helps enhance the practitioner’s skills and refine their techniques.

Learning from mistakes and successes involves reflecting on both positive and negative outcomes to gain insights and knowledge. Understanding what contributed to the spell’s success or failure provides valuable lessons that can be applied to future spellwork. This continuous learning process helps improve the effectiveness of magical practices over time.

Refining methods and approaches involves updating ritual techniques based on the insights gained from previous experiences. This may include adjusting specific actions, modifying the sequence of steps, or incorporating new practices to enhance effectiveness. Regular updates and refinements ensure that the practitioner’s techniques remain relevant and effective.

Enhancing elemental integration involves improving how different components and energies are combined within a spell. This includes optimizing the alignment of various elements, refining the balance between them, and ensuring that they work together harmoniously. Enhanced integration leads to more effective and cohesive spellwork.

Keeping a magical journal involves documenting detailed records of each spell, including the components used, the process followed, and the outcomes observed. A well-maintained journal serves as a valuable resource for tracking progress, identifying trends, and making informed adjustments to future practices.

Revising ritual frameworks and techniques involves periodically reviewing and updating the methods and approaches used in spellwork. This includes making adjustments based on documented experiences, feedback, and new insights. Regular revisions ensure that the practitioner’s practices remain effective and aligned with their goals.

Troubleshooting and Refining Your Practice

In the practice of magic, encountering instances where desired outcomes are not achieved is a common occurrence. Analyzing these failures is crucial to improving one's craft. Several factors may contribute to the ineffectiveness of magical operations, and understanding these can provide pathways to enhancement.

One prevalent reason for the failure of magical workings is a misalignment between the practitioner's energy and the specific nature of the spell. This misalignment may arise from insufficient preparation or a lack of synchronization between the practitioner's focus and the intended outcome. For instance, if a practitioner’s mental state is fragmented or their energy is dispersed, the spell's efficacy may be compromised.

Another common issue is the improper use or placement of symbolic elements. In magical practices, the symbolic representation of objects plays a significant role. If the chosen symbols or materials are not appropriately connected to the intended effect, the spell's potency can be diminished. This misalignment could be due to a misunderstanding of the properties or significance of the objects used. Inadequate ritual structure is another factor that may contribute to unsuccessful magical operations. Rituals often involve complex steps that must be meticulously followed. Omitting or inaccurately performing key elements of the ritual can lead to a lack of coherence and, consequently, a failure to manifest the desired result.

Environmental factors also play a crucial role in the success of magical workings. Factors such as ambient energy, environmental disturbances, or conflicting energies can impede the effectiveness of a spell. Practitioners must consider these elements and ensure that their environment is conducive to their magical efforts.

Techniques for Diagnosing and Correcting Issues

To address the issues causing spell failures, practitioners can employ several diagnostic and corrective techniques. One effective method is to perform a thorough post-operation analysis. This involves reviewing each step of the spell, from preparation through execution, to identify any deviations or discrepancies. Reflecting on the process helps pinpoint areas that may need adjustment.

Another technique is to engage in self-assessment and introspection. Practitioners should evaluate their mental and emotional states during the spellcasting process. Ensuring that one’s focus is unwavering and that emotional disturbances are minimized can significantly impact the outcome. Techniques such as meditation or grounding exercises may help stabilize one's energy and enhance concentration. Additionally, reviewing and refining the use of symbolic elements is essential. Practitioners should reassess the significance of the objects and symbols used in the spell. Ensuring that these elements are correctly aligned with the intended outcome can enhance their efficacy. Adjustments might involve selecting different symbols or materials that more accurately represent the desired effect.

Environmental considerations are also crucial. Practitioners should assess the surroundings for any factors that might interfere with the spell, such as external noise or disruptions. Creating a controlled and harmonious environment can help mitigate these issues and support the spell's success.

Adjusting Your Techniques

Experience is a valuable teacher in magical practices. As practitioners accumulate knowledge and insights from their experiences, they should continuously adapt and refine their techniques. This iterative process involves adjusting methods based on observed results and integrating new understanding into practice.

Adapting techniques requires flexibility and openness to change. Practitioners should be willing to experiment with different approaches and adjust their rituals and methods accordingly. This may involve altering the components of a spell, modifying the ritual structure, or employing new techniques for energy manipulation. By experimenting and observing the outcomes, practitioners can discover more effective methods tailored to their individual practices.

Refining techniques also involves incorporating lessons learned from both successful and unsuccessful spells. Analyzing what worked well and what did not provides valuable insights for future practices. Practitioners should document their experiences and outcomes to build a comprehensive understanding of their methods and refine their approach over time.

Learning from successes and failures is integral to the development of magical proficiency. Successes provide valuable feedback on what elements and techniques were effective. Practitioners should analyze successful spells to identify the factors that contributed to their efficacy. This includes evaluating the preparation, execution, and symbolic elements involved. Failures, while often discouraging, offer equally important lessons. Analyzing unsuccessful spells helps practitioners understand what went wrong and what changes need to be made. It is crucial to approach failures with a constructive mindset, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. By examining the causes of failure and making necessary adjustments, practitioners can enhance their skills and increase the likelihood of future successes.

Building a Knowledge Base

Building a knowledge base involves gathering and synthesizing information from a variety of sources. Practitioners should engage in continuous learning to expand their understanding of magical principles and techniques. This can include studying historical practices, exploring different cultural approaches, and learning from contemporary sources. Practitioners may also benefit from developing a personal compendium of insights gained from their experiences. This may involve keeping detailed records of spells, rituals, and their outcomes. By reviewing and analyzing this compendium, practitioners can track their progress, identify patterns, and refine their methods.

Finding trusted mentors and seeking peer support can greatly enhance a practitioner’s development. Mentors, with their experience and expertise, can provide valuable guidance and feedback. They can help practitioners navigate challenges, refine techniques, and broaden their understanding of magical practices. Internet mentorships within the witchcraft community can present significant dangers, particularly the potential for predatory power structures. The anonymity and lack of accountability inherent in online interactions can enable manipulative individuals to exploit newcomers' vulnerabilities. These so-called mentors may position themselves as gatekeepers of esoteric knowledge, using their perceived authority to control, coerce, or even abuse those seeking guidance. Without the safeguards of face-to-face interactions and established communal oversight, it becomes challenging to discern the intentions of such mentors. Additionally, the rapid spread of misinformation and dogma, often presented as ancient wisdom, can lead to harmful practices and unhealthy dynamics. The power imbalance between a mentor and a mentee can foster dependency, stifling personal growth and autonomy. Thus, it is crucial for practitioners to approach online mentorships with caution, seek multiple perspectives, and prioritize their own discernment and well-being over blind adherence to any one figure's teachings.

Peer support is also beneficial. Engaging with a community of practitioners allows for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and insights. This collaborative environment fosters learning and growth, as practitioners can share their successes, failures, and techniques. Participation in discussions, workshops, and group practices can provide additional perspectives and support.

Books, online forums, and workshops are valuable resources for practitioners seeking to deepen their knowledge and refine their practices. Books offer in-depth exploration of magical principles, techniques, and historical contexts. They can provide a comprehensive foundation for understanding and practice. Online forums and communities provide platforms for discussion, exchange of ideas, and feedback. Practitioners can connect with others, ask questions, and share experiences. Engaging in these forums can provide practical advice, support, and alternative perspectives. Workshops and seminars offer opportunities for hands-on learning and direct instruction. It must also be said that written media, regardless of source is guaranteed to have some bias, mostly found throughout the publisher. Be sure to bear biases in mind when using books or online media as a reference and take active notes on it. Attending workshops allows practitioners to learn from experienced teachers, engage in practical exercises, and gain new insights. Workshops also facilitate networking and collaboration with other practitioners.

Maintaining Efficacy Standards

As practitioners progress to more advanced levels of spellcasting, maintaining high efficacy standards becomes increasingly important. Advanced spellcasting involves complex techniques, nuanced understanding of energy dynamics, and precise execution. Practitioners must ensure that their methods are refined and that they adhere to rigorous standards of practice. Considerations for advanced spellcasting include a deep understanding of the interplay between different magical components. Practitioners must be adept at manipulating various forms of energy and integrating them effectively. This requires not only technical skill but also a heightened level of awareness and control. Ethical considerations also play a significant role in advanced spellcasting. Practitioners must be mindful of the potential consequences of their actions and ensure that their practices are aligned with responsible and ethical standards. This includes respecting the autonomy of others, avoiding harmful effects, and practicing with integrity. Responsible and effective practice is fundamental to the success and integrity of magical work. Practitioners should approach their work with a sense of responsibility, ensuring that their actions are well-considered and that they respect the broader implications of their practices.

Effective practice involves maintaining clarity of purpose, rigorous preparation, and precise execution. Practitioners should continuously refine their techniques and strive for excellence in their work. This includes regularly reviewing and updating their methods, seeking feedback, and remaining open to learning and growth. Responsible practice also entails maintaining a balanced perspective and avoiding over-reliance on magical techniques. Practitioners should integrate their magical work with practical actions and consider the broader context in which they operate. This holistic approach ensures that magical practices are grounded in a comprehensive and ethical framework.

Expanding Your Magical Horizons

Expanding one's understanding of magic necessitates an examination of practices across a variety of cultures. To this end, conducting thorough research is essential. This involves immersing oneself in the historical and contemporary contexts of different traditions. Each culture offers a unique perspective on magical practices, reflecting its values, cosmology, and societal norms. Engaging with primary sources such as ancient texts, folklore, and anthropological studies provides a foundational understanding. Secondary sources, including academic papers and interpretations by contemporary scholars, further contextualize these practices.

Incorporating elements from diverse traditions involves more than superficial adoption. It requires a nuanced approach, respecting the integrity and origins of each practice. For instance, the integration of practices from Indigenous cultures necessitates an awareness of the cultural significance and historical context behind them. Misappropriation, where elements are taken out of context or used without understanding, can undermine the tradition and disrespect its practitioners. Effective integration involves adapting these practices in a manner that aligns with one's existing framework of magical practice. This means translating principles and techniques in ways that harmonize with one's own methodologies while honoring their original contexts. Practitioners must be attentive to the ethical dimensions of this integration, ensuring that their approach does not trivialize or commercialize sacred traditions.

Continuous Learning and Development

The field of magical practice is dynamic and constantly evolving. Staying informed about the latest developments is essential for maintaining a relevant and effective practice. This involves regularly reading recent publications, attending conferences, and participating in online forums or discussion groups. Keeping abreast of new research and discoveries allows practitioners to incorporate contemporary insights into their work. Innovations in magical theory, advancements in ritual techniques, and emerging cultural influences can all impact and enhance one’s practice. Engaging with current literature and scholarship ensures that one’s practice remains vibrant and responsive to new ideas. Additionally, staying updated involves critically evaluating new information and integrating it thoughtfully. Not every development will be applicable or beneficial, so discernment is necessary to determine which insights align with one's goals and methodologies. This ongoing evaluation helps in refining and evolving one's magical practice over time.

A commitment to lifelong learning is fundamental for continuous growth as a practitioner. This dedication involves embracing the idea that magical practice is an evolving journey rather than a static destination. Regularly setting aside time for study, reflection, and experimentation fosters ongoing development. Participating in advanced training, mentorship programs, or specialized courses can further enhance one's skills and knowledge. Seeking guidance from experienced practitioners and engaging in mentorship relationships provide opportunities for personalized growth and deeper understanding. Lifelong learning also entails cultivating an attitude of curiosity and openness. Exploring new areas of study, experimenting with unfamiliar techniques, and challenging one’s assumptions contribute to a richer and more nuanced practice. This proactive approach to learning ensures that one remains engaged and inspired throughout their magical journey.

Recording and Reflecting on Your Journey

Keeping a detailed journal is a valuable practice for documenting one's magical journey. A journal serves as a repository for insights, observations, and progress, providing a record of experiences and lessons learned. Regular entries can track the evolution of one’s practice, highlight successful techniques, and identify areas for improvement. Documenting rituals, spells, and magical work allows practitioners to analyze their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Notes on personal reactions, environmental factors, and outcomes contribute to a deeper understanding of how different elements influence magical practices. Over time, this accumulated knowledge can lead to more refined and effective approaches. Additionally, a magical journal can serve as a tool for reflection and growth. Reviewing past entries helps practitioners recognize patterns, assess their development, and set future goals. This reflective process enhances self-awareness and facilitates the ongoing refinement of one’s practice.

Reflection is a critical component of personal and professional growth in magical practice. Regularly assessing one’s experiences, successes, and challenges provides valuable insights into one’s progress and areas for development. This introspective process helps practitioners understand how their practices align with their goals and values. Evolving as a practitioner involves integrating these reflections into one’s ongoing work. This means adapting practices based on insights gained, experimenting with new techniques, and continually striving for improvement. Embracing change and flexibility ensures that one’s practice remains dynamic and responsive to personal growth.

Engaging in reflective practices also fosters a deeper connection with one’s magical work. By understanding the broader implications of their practices and their impact on personal development, practitioners can cultivate a more meaningful and purposeful approach to magic. This ongoing process of reflection and evolution is key to achieving long-term success and fulfillment in the magical arts.

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[decayed-cartilage]

The Intern

Hannibal Lecter x AFAB! Reader

Masterlist

Warnings for chapter: power dynamic? Mentions of erection.. creepy! Hannibal, Morally wrong! Hannibal

Synopsis: Y/N is on the brink of graduation, with just one requirement left—an internship. Somehow, she finds herself under the esteemed Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a man as brilliant as he is unreadable. Cold, precise, and impossible to rattle, he keeps his thoughts well-guarded. But Y/N can’t help her curiosity—she wants to understand him, to get beneath the surface. And whether he intends to or not, bit by bit, he lets something slip. Something darker. Something she might not be ready to see.

After what felt like endless hours of writing and submitting, writing and submitting, I finally received an email back from one of the many psychiatrists I’d been desperately trying to reach for my mandatory internship—Dr.Lecter, A prestigious man with many colorful reviews, which had drawn me to contact him.

From: H***********@gmail.com

To: Y/e@gmail.com

Subject: Internship for Johns Hopkins University

Dear Y/N,

I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing your application and personal portfolio, and I must say—your dedication and talent are impossible to overlook. It’s clear you take your work seriously, and intelligence like yours is always refreshing to encounter. I have no doubt that you would be the perfect young lady for me to mentor

do get in touch at your earliest convenience, and please, use my personal number (***) ***-****

Best,

Doctor Lecter

My heart pounded out of my chest, my eyes scanning his words again and again as warmth flooded my face. Oh god—had I really sent all that? How had I forgotten? Yes—I had sent all of it, in a tired, near-lucid state, exhausted from working so hard. My words had grown almost desperate by the last emails, pleading for validation.

But really? My whole life story? A deep dive into why I chose psychiatry—endless run-ons about trauma and my relentless hope for a better world?

And—oh no—the pictures. Me in scrubs, grinning way too hard, double thumbs-up in front of a cadaver during one of my early tech programs. Or me, beaming like an overexcited tourist beside historical documents, looking ridiculously proud.

Yet, all of that faded as my eyes caught on one thing—his phone number.

I screamed like a teenage girl, shooting up from my seat as I sprinted to grab my phone, my hands shaking as I typed in his number—only to pause.

What do I even say?!

I groaned, throwing myself back onto my bed.

Third person (Hannibal's) P.O.V

Hannibal had been waiting. Days bled into each other, an endless cycle of monotony—listening to insipid patients whine about their problems, assisting in crime cases that barely challenged him, returning home to indulge in his more refined appetites. Even killing had lost its thrill. Nothing ever truly stirred him.

Until your email.

God, the desperation dripped from every word, a quiet, pleading sort of need that sent a slow, curling heat through him. You had laid yourself bare, unaware of what exactly you had just invited into your life. Your tragic little story, the way you carried yourself—so unassuming, so small. So easy.

Just picturing you in his office, lingering in his space, speaking to him with those wide, trusting eyes—his jaw locked, his fingers twitching with restraint.

Staring at the pictures you had attached, Hannibal felt his length twitch, his breath slowing as his free hand drifted—almost absentmindedly—palming himself through the fine fabric of his dress pants. God.

The way your lips curled, the way your smile beamed so effortlessly, so full of warmth—it was intoxicating. A stark contrast to the cold, calculated existence he thrived in. You radiated light, soft and unguarded, utterly unaware of the predator fixated on you.

His throat tightened.

Such an innocent little thing, standing there in your scrubs, so proud, so eager. So trusting. You belonged to a world of laughter and hope, while he—he was carved from shadow and silence, his smile only ever genuine when he was peeling flesh from bone.

And yet, here he was, jaw clenched, breath heavy, wanting.

Needing.

He exhaled sharply, fingers pressing harder against the growing strain beneath his waistband.

Oh, sweet girl… you have no idea what you’ve done.

Ding!

The sharp chime shattered the heavy silence, jolting him from his trance. His phone clattered against the desk, but his eyes were already locked onto the screen. He knew who it was. Of course, he did.

Hannibal was a meticulous man. A careful man. And yet, you had made it so easy for him. Every little detail of your life, carelessly scattered across the internet—your school, your favorite cafés, even the places you liked to study. He knew where you had been before you even told him. He had all of you at his fingertips.

And now, your number. Displayed so innocently on his screen.

"Hello Doctor Lecter! This is Y/n :),I got your acceptance email-"

The preview cut off, but he didn’t need to see the rest to know exactly how you would sound—bubbly, eager, grateful. A stark contrast to the dark amusement curling in his chest.

Still, he unlocked the phone, fingers rolling over the screen, expression unreadable as he took in the rest of your message.

and I just can’t express how grateful I am you responded! It’s even better since I’m attending the same school you did! I would love to set up a time for us to chat in person—I hope I’m not being too informal—if I am, please tell me! Thank you so much for your time!

Such sweetness. Such hope. He could practically hear the nervous excitement laced in your words, see the way your hands might have trembled as you typed, wondering if you were saying too much, if you sounded proper enough for him.

He exhaled slowly, his jaw tightening, his fingers pressing into the screen just a little harder than necessary.

You had no idea what you had just invited into your world.

He began typing.

I’m pleased to hear from you so soon. Why don’t we meet somewhere comfortable? Perhaps a coffee shop—there’s a lovely one, [your favorite coffee shop], that I hear is quite popular. It seems like the perfect setting for our first conversation. Let me know when you’re available, and I’ll gladly adjust my schedule.

And please, don’t worry about being too informal. I much prefer sincerity. I look forward to meeting you, properly.

With that, he sent the message, his thumb hovering over the screen for just a second longer than necessary before finally setting the phone down. It slid across his desk with a soft thud, the only sound in the stillness of his office.

Hannibal exhaled slowly, a drawn-out sigh that did little to temper the hunger curling inside him.

You had been on his mind long before your message arrived, but now? Now, you were real. Tangible. Just a text away.

And soon, within reach.

Rolling his shoulders, he adjusted his cuffs with careful precision, though it did little to distract from the heat simmering beneath his skin. His jaw tightened. He needed a walk. Fresh air. A moment to compose himself before his thoughts spiraled into something indulgent.

His lips curled slightly as he stepped away from his desk, anticipation thrumming in his veins.

You had no idea what you had just done.

But you would.

YOUR POV

Ding!

I was too nervous to look at his message right away. My fingers hovered over my phone, heart hammering so loudly it drowned out all rational thought. When I finally mustered the courage to open it, my face went hot instantly.

He mentioned my favorite café.

Had he been there before? Was he that local? Had I somehow missed him in the crowd? My stomach twisted at the thought—equal parts exhilaration and unease. It wasn’t strange for someone to know about it; it was a well-loved spot, after all. But the way he said it, so casually yet deliberately, made my skin prickle.

I let out a small, breathless giggle, my lips pressing together as I read over his words again. I needed to calm down. Breathe, Y/N. Act normal. But I wasn’t normal. Not right now. I was too warm, too jittery, too caught up in the weight of his attention.

A walk. I needed a walk.

Without responding, I shoved my phone into my pocket and grabbed my jacket off the hook by the door. My scarf—a soft, muted rainbow of colors—was next, the familiar knit worn and comforting against my fingers.

"I know it gets cold out there Y/nn! You're taking this scarf with you- it's my dying wish!"

I could still hear my mother’s voice, warm with fond exasperation, as she fussed over me before I left for college. The memory made me smile.

I wrapped the scarf snugly around my neck, letting the soft wool shield me from the crisp autumn air seeping in through the doorframe. My outfit was hardly practical for the weather, but I had always dressed like this—formally, neatly, a habit ingrained into me since childhood. A plaid skirt, fitted but flaring just above my knees, swayed as I moved. Tights helped ward off the chill, but only just. My dark grey moccasins were polished and proper, and beneath my heavy coat, I wore a delicate white button-up. The heart embroidery around the collar was my mother’s handiwork—stitched with care, meant to remind me of home.

Despite the structured appearance, I was anything but composed. Anyone who truly knew me would recognize the contrast between my polished exterior and the nervous, sweet-natured girl underneath.

I stepped outside into the cold, the late autumn air nipping at my nose and cheeks, turning them pink within seconds. The streets were quiet, save for the occasional rustling of leaves tumbling along the pavement.

-

The walk stretched on longer than I had planned. What started as a way to clear my head turned into an aimless journey, my feet carrying me farther and farther from my starting point. By the time I thought to check the time, my phone screen flashed 4:07 PM.

Four hours. Four hours.

I had wandered nearly halfway across the city, lost in my thoughts, replaying that message over and over in my head like a song I couldn’t turn off. The crisp autumn air had settled deep in my bones, my fingers stiff despite being tucked into my coat pockets. My legs ached, but I wasn’t ready to go home just yet.

That was when I noticed it—the quiet hum of a near-empty park, tucked away from the city’s usual noise. Golden leaves fluttered from the branches above, painting the pavement in warm hues. It was peaceful here, the kind of place where no one would bother me, where I could sit for just a moment and-

That was when I noticed him.

A figure moving toward me, his steps slow, measured, deliberate.

At first, I didn’t think much of it. Just another passerby enjoying the evening air, someone else drawn to the quiet solitude of the park. But something about the way he walked made my breath catch—a smooth, unhurried grace, like a man who never rushed for anything.

My brows furrowed as I squinted. Damn it, I forgot my glasses.

I could make out the tall, well-built frame beneath a long, dark coat, the way his shoulders sat perfectly squared, the way his hands—gloved—rested easily at his sides, as if he carried nothing but time and patience.

A strange feeling stirred in my chest, a quiet knowing before my brain even caught up.

Then, as he stepped into the golden glow of the late afternoon sun, everything clicked into place.

The sharp, unmistakable features. The neatly combed dark hair. The slight tilt of his head, like he had already recognized me long before I had recognized him.

Dr. Lecter.

Oh God.

My stomach flipped so violently I thought I might actually double over. What was he doing here? Had he seen me before I saw him? Was he here because of me, or was this just some freakishly timed coincidence?

My brain scrambled for an appropriate reaction—anything other than standing there like an idiot, heart hammering in my throat.

My cheeks burned before I could stop them, heat creeping up my neck, traitorous and undeniable. I must look ridiculous right now—flushed, wide-eyed, completely caught off guard.

But there was no turning back. He was already close enough that ignoring him would be rude. Unprofessional.

So, I did the only thing I could think of.

I forced my stiff fingers to move, lifting a hand in a small, hesitant wave.

And then—I smiled. Nervous, flustered, but hopefully not as painfully obvious as I felt.

"H-Hi, Doctor!" I blurted out, my voice coming out softer than I intended, almost breathless.

I forced a smile, though I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks. My big, wide eyes locked onto him, searching his face for any sign of reaction.

A second passed.

Then another.

My stomach twisted, dread creeping in. Did I mess up? Did I sound stupid? The silence stretched just long enough to make my pulse stutter.

"I-It’s Y/N—" I started, my voice unsteady, but before I could finish, he cut me off.

"I know it’s you, sweetheart."

My breath hitched.

His voice was smooth, effortlessly composed, dripping with confidence in a way that made my skin tingle. He looked down at me with an amused sort of curiosity, his gaze steady, unwavering—like he was taking his time, drinking in every little reaction, every tiny shift in my expression.

"How funny is it," he continued, his lips curving slightly, "that I should run into you here—right after we had just spoken?"

I swallowed hard. My stomach flipped again, my nerves unraveling by the second.

He was so calm. So composed. And here I was, standing there like a nervous wreck, my thoughts scattering like leaves in the wind.

Whatever little confidence I had managed to build up crumbled beneath the weight of his presence. My body felt too warm despite the crisp autumn air, and I could hear the rush of my own pulse in my ears. Still, I forced myself to nod, hoping it looked casual—hoping he couldn’t tell just how flustered I was.

"It’s t-totally crazy!" I rushed out, my voice a little too high, a little too eager. I winced at myself, clearing my throat and trying again, desperate to sound normal. "I-I mean, I wasn’t even paying attention to where I was going. I must’ve wandered too far—I couldn’t even tell you where I am right now if I’m being honest."

I let out a nervous laugh, tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear, willing my hands to stop fidgeting. My cheeks burned, and I prayed it looked like nothing more than the bite of the cold air rather than the sheer excitement buzzing beneath my skin.

I had imagined meeting him—dreamed of it even. But now that he was standing in front of me, watching me with that unreadable gaze, I felt like my legs might give out beneath me.

"I'm really sorry you had to meet me like this," I blurted, my voice smaller than I intended. My fingers fidgeted with the hem of my jacket sleeves, twisting the fabric as I dared to glance up at him. His eyes—sharp, knowing—made my stomach flip. God, why did he have to look at me like that?

"I promise I would have been more presentable— and- l-less shocked—I'm very sorry," I squeaked, heat rushing to my face as I dropped my gaze again, mortified by how utterly flustered I was.

A deep hum left him, measured and deliberate. "There is no need for an apology, hon," Hannibal said smoothly, the richness of his voice wrapping around me like silk. "You present yourself in a manner most... revealing."

He tilted his head, gaze unwavering, studying me as though he were unraveling something unseen. "There is an honesty in moments like these. A rare and unguarded glimpse into one's truest nature."

My breath caught in my throat. What—what did he mean by that?

I tried to piece it together, but the warmth in his eyes, the weight of his words, left me grasping at nothing.

I nodded at his words, dumbly, still trying to process the way he spoke, the way his voice felt like silk wrapping around my thoughts. But then, like a slap to the face, realization struck.

Oh no.

He definitely saw that I had read his message but never responded.

My stomach twisted as I stepped closer, suddenly feeling the need to explain myself, to fix whatever impression that might’ve given. "I—I meant to text back!" The words left me in a rush, my hands gripping the hem of my sleeves anxiously. "I just got too excited—" I stopped abruptly, my breath catching as my face burned. Too excited? Oh god. That sounded ridiculous. Desperate.

"I mean—" I scrambled to recover, shaking my head quickly. "Not excited—well, I mean, yes, excited, but not in a weird way! Just… I thought I should wait until I wasn’t so—so—" I let out a nervous laugh, utterly failing to dig myself out of the hole I was sinking into.

Hannibal tilted his head ever so slightly, watching me with that same unreadable expression, his lips curving just enough to make my stomach twist even further.

"There’s no need to fluster yourself on my account," he said, his voice smooth, deliberate. "Some things are best expressed in their rawest form, unfiltered… unguarded."

I swallowed hard, my mind racing, trying to decipher his words. Was he talking about my message—or something else entirely?"I—I completely agree!" I rushed out, still trying to steady myself, my heart hammering against my ribs. "But—still—I mean, we should set up a time. Whenever you’d like, of course."

I offered a small, nervous smile, shifting slightly on my feet, hoping I sounded even the slightest bit composed.

Third person (Hannibal's) pov

Hannibal watched you with quiet amusement, his sharp eyes taking in every flustered movement, every nervous breath. You were trying so hard to sound composed, but the way your words tumbled out—rushed, uncertain—betrayed you.

"I—I completely agree!" you blurted, your voice carrying that same delightful eagerness from your emails. "But—still—I mean, we should set up a time. Whenever you’d like, of course."

You shifted on your feet, offering a small, nervous smile, as if willing yourself to appear more put together. How endearing. You had no idea how much you were giving away. Hannibal let the moment stretch just a second longer than necessary, letting you stew in the weight of his gaze before finally offering a slow, knowing smile.

"How about now, then?" Hannibal’s voice was smooth, effortlessly calm. "It seems the only thing occupying you at this moment is our conversation. I don’t mind in the slightest."

He watched as you blinked, clearly caught off guard. Your fingers twitched at your sides, your lips parting slightly as if scrambling for a response. You hadn’t expected that—hadn’t considered that he might take control of the moment so easily, turning your nervous rambling into something entirely inescapable.

Of course, he knew you wouldn’t say no. You had been so eager, so desperate for this opportunity, your emails practically dripping with the need to prove yourself. The way you sought validation was almost endearing—so open, so unaware of just how much you had already given away.

And now, standing before him, you couldn’t hide it. The excitement in your eyes, the nervous energy humming beneath your skin. You were trying so hard to play it cool, but he could see it all—the way your breath hitched, the way you hesitated for just a second too long.

He let the silence stretch, just enough to make you squirm, his face giving no hints to how he felt.

"Oh! Of course! Now is perfect!" she blurts out, nodding far too quickly, her voice pitching higher than she probably intended. She grips the hem of her coat, wringing the fabric between her fingers, as if the motion might tether her to reality—might stop her from unraveling beneath her own nervous energy.

How utterly transparent.

I say nothing for a moment, only watching, taking in the way she fidgets, the way her pulse flutters just beneath the delicate skin of her throat. She is trying so very hard to maintain composure, but she is failing spectacularly.

She doesn’t realize how much she gives away. How easily every flicker of emotion plays across her face. It is almost endearing—the way she fights against her excitement, attempting to suppress it, as if I cannot already see through her.

And yet, there is something else beneath the surface. Something softer, untouched by the weight of the world’s cruelty. A rare thing, fragile and sweet.

My lips curl slightly.

She swallows hard, her breath quickening, the silence stretching just long enough for uncertainty to creep in. I can almost feel the way her mind races, second-guessing herself, wondering if she has said too much or too little.

Finally, I incline my head in a slow, deliberate motion.

"Perfect," I murmur, watching as her breath hitched

A/N oh my god I think is the first fanfic I've written since I was like ten, so if you like it tell me :) and if you don't, also tell me. I hope everyone is doing well and I hope to write more, or leave suggestions! Big kisses everyone :3

[toskarin]

Is Vgen safe to use? I'd never heard of it before you mentioned it but it looks cool

this answer's going to be a bit roundabout because I don't feel comfortable directly vouching for anyone who handles money besides myself. and I don't even vouch for myself

so, vgen is basically a non-japanese* (*: primarily western, but that's more of a demographic thing than a platform restriction) version of skima mixed with skeb, both of which are existing sites that japanese artists use to take sketchbook style requests

pixiv also does this now, along with a few other japanese sites, but it's generally been kind of limited to being an otaku thing, even outside of japan, and it's very often been limited to japanese artists actually taking these requests (even if anyone can send them) because of legal issues around international payment

for context, skeb's request-based style of commissioning gained a lot of popularity because it's, frankly, antisocial in a comfortable way for both clients and artists

[you can skip this section if you know what skeb is]

you can think of it as paying an artist to draw something with the understanding that you are paying for the literal act of them drawing it, rather than for a refined and specific finished product

in this format, the requester puts money on the table alongside a brief outline of what they want and any applicable references. there is usually an outline of how much you should pay at minimum, some examples of that artist's work, and (traditionally) a hard rule that neither party in this arrangement communicates with each other about it outside of the request-accept-send-tip procedure itself

traditionally, when the artist accepts the request, the platform takes the money and holds it in escrow. then, when the artist sends the finished work, the exchange is concluded with the requester receiving the work (possibly along with a written note by the artist) and the artist receiving their payment from the site. if the artist doesn't finish the work before an agreed-upon deadline, the money is refunded

in the original skeb format, if the requester especially enjoys the art, it's customary to tip the artist, which applies a golden border around the art and allows the requester to include a thank-you note, displayed alongside the artist's commentary and their original request

this is important to lay out because, as you might notice, there are no windows for revisions and no active direct lines of communication allowed. I've seen people get angry about this before, so that's one way in which the skeb style of commission can be considered "unsafe"

there's a lot of misconceptions around the differences in legal rights here, but the bottom line is that, when it comes to commissioned artwork, most people on the english-speaking internet are profoundly misinformed about the laws around things and operate largely on handshake agreements that wouldn't really hold up in any court, if push came to shove

[end skip]

so! let's get to vgen

vgen, being an adaptation of this format, actually mixes in a lot of different features that I would consider to be more traditional for western art commissions. it carries over the skima/skeb style storefronts, but adapts them more towards serving vtubers (a common use case for skeb and skima) with a slight tilt towards the client having additional protection

for example, to open an artist storefront on vgen, you have to either be invited in by someone or pass some variety of notability verification test (either an engagement baiting post including your art or winning a contest of some fashion)

to make requests, you just kind of make an account and send the money

skeb style commissions do exist on vgen, but the site is designed to allow additional stages of artist communication on certain requests. this means that you may get some extra securities as a client, or you may not, depending on the terms of the request

one notable rule of vgen which makes it distinct from similar sites is that you can't draw porn on there. this may come as a shock, because people aren't great about following that rule, but it is actually a pretty firm rule on account of the site being more beholden to major western-centred payment processors

so, as far as the site itself goes, if you keep yourself familiar with the rules and actually read the terms of your deals, you're safe there in the same way that you're safe when making a conscious decision to climb a tree

as far as financial matters and the site's management go, I don't know, and I can't know because I don't know the staff personally

I have made a personal decision to trust that they're acting in good faith. I've made a request through the site before to test it out, it went as expected, so my decision to use it is informed by my own sense of risk management

TL;DR: is vgen safe to use? I don't personally think it's uniquely risky as far as storefronts go, but it's an online storefront where people sell each other things, so treat it as one and walk about as carefully as you always do

[bonewaryreblogs]

I've become mildly obsessed with the idea of Batman adopting Danny Phantom...

... so I decided to figure out how to squish what's canon to the Danny Phantom TV show to fit existing lore in the DC multiverse, as well as addressing some issues with the original show itself (some things have not aged well). He'll go through a lot on his own (for maybe a year?) before he ends up on Batman's radar, but the eventual goal is to have Danny be adopted into the Bat Clan.

I have done so much freaking research in the last like three days that I've been obsessed and this is what I've come up with as a backstory so far. All of this is subject to change as I find better information and refine the concepts.

There are many variations around the world about a concept of a special substance that would either revive the dead, heal any ailment, or extend the life of the living. All of these concepts stem from a common source, which I will be calling the Fountain of Life for simplicity. The “Waters” of the Fountain of Life are made of a special chemical compound combined with supernatural properties; it could be consumed as is or used to prepare food (Ambrosia), grow plants whose “fruits” would share these properties (the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden, Persephone’s pomegranate), be bathed in or otherwise applied topically (via lotion, sprinkling, full body immersion, etc), used to create an object (Holy Grail), and as many other variations as one could think of. Depending on the preparation and application of the substance, the one affected may have specific side effects, such as changes to one’s mind or perception (for better or worse), levels of dependency on the substance to avoid negative side effects (such as continuing to age or something resembling withdrawal symptoms), physical changes (again, for better or worse), and more.

“Lazarus Pits” are essentially the result of leaks in the fabric of reality between the Fountain of Life and the physical realm of Earth, usually cropping up near Lay Lines that specifically connect to the Fountain. Ra’s al Ghul made a point of controlling most of them, but he doesn’t quite have a monopoly.

While Maddie, Jack, and Vlad were in college around 1980, they were researching ghosts and accidentally tapped into the Fountain of Life, blasting Vlad with what they thought was ectoplasmic energy, but was actually a variation of the Fountain’s chemicals that evaporated almost immediately since there wasn’t a constant flow and it wasn’t in a place that could sustain its presence; or at least, what hadn’t already been absorbed by Vlad evaporated. The substance affected Vlad both physically and mentally; he was sick for several years as it integrated into his body, which would eventually grant him several powers he associated with ghosts (leading him to call himself half-ghost, despite this not really being the case) and amped up his attraction to Maddie into yandere levels of obsession, blaming Jack for “ruining his life” and focusing all of his negative emotions onto him. Vlad continued to call the substance ectoplasm, not actually realizing what it was since Lazarus Pits aren’t common knowledge.  

They didn't realize that their experiment had redirected one of the leaks that would have otherwise formed a Lazarus Pit, which snapped back and connected to “Limbo”, a place for souls to wait until they could be “sorted” (for lack of a better term) into various afterlife realms, and created a pocket dimension that would eventually be called the “Ghost Zone”. Souls that entered the Ghost Zone were affected by the so-called ectoplasm, which changed their psyches and abilities into what we see in the Danny Phantom show. Ra’s al Ghul noticed that one of his Lazarus Pits had dried up but couldn’t figure out the reason (since he never figured out what caused a Lazarus Pit to form in the first place), though not for lack of trying, and abandoned the now useless site. He’s still bitter about this, which may or may not come back later as a random plot thread.

Without a body to hold their structure, souls in Limbo fall back on their inherent “nature” as they lose touch with the “nurtured” experiences they gained throughout their mortal life. The Lazarus Water/ectoplasm of the Ghost Zone takes these “raw” and emotion-fueled “nature” oriented souls and dials them up to 11, giving them tunnel vision for whatever was most important to them while they were still alive; this is similar to what happened to Vlad’s psyche, though the fact that he still had a physical body tempered the affect slightly.

The now defunct Lazarus Pit was near Amity Park, Illinois, which was founded in the late 1600s/early 1700s. The founders were part of the same coven Amity Arkham belonged to in Gotham, New Jersey, who was burned to death for being a witch sometime in the 1600s. These founders took Amity’s murder as a sign to leave for greener pastures, eventually settling in an area rich with “magic” and called the place Amity Park in her honor, having come to believe that her sacrifice had allowed them to flee and live. They didn’t discover that the source of the “magic” was a Lazarus Pit until much later, after Ra’s had already claimed it.

While Gotham doesn’t really acknowledge or care about it, Amity Park tends to think of Gotham as their “Big Sister City”.

Jack Fenton is a descendant of the Beaumonts; many stayed in Gotham after Amity Arkham’s death but some moved and settled in Amity Park, though the name was changed to Fenton a few generations ago due to the only living heir taking on their partner’s name instead. They were close to another founding family, the Elliots, who are now in a similar situation as their only heirs are Alicia Elliot (divorced and refusing to have kids) and Maddison Elliot, who would eventually marry Jack and take on the last name Fenton as well. While both have technically abandoned their traditional surnames, they do carry on the tradition of occult dealings with their shared special interest in Ghost Hunting. They grew up together in Amity Park through the 1960s and 70s, then decided to attend the same college, University of Wisconsin, by 1980, where they met fellow ghost enthusiast Vlad Masters. While smart in his own right, his intelligence and passion for Ghost Hunting were dwarfed by Jack and Maddie; the traits that drew him to Maddie were the same things that annoyed him about Jack, from their passion to their intelligence to their “humble” origins to their quirky personalities. His family was squarely in the “upper middle class” or “working upper class” and viewed Jack as a small town hick with no aspirations of rising higher, while Maddie was simply of “humble” origins that he pictured her as “working hard to overcome” even though she was just as comfortable with her social status as Jack, projecting his own ambitions onto her. Vlad never clocked the double standard and now likely never will.

Despite everything, Vlad was comparatively normal until the fateful lab accident exposed him to Lazarus Water around 1980 and left him in the hospital for several years.

While Vlad was incapacitated, Maddie and Jack graduated and got married, moving back to Amity Park to raise their firstborn, Jasmine, by 1988. This “abandonment” led to Vlad’s hatred of Jack and obsession with Maddie, as well as fueling his desire to become “rich and successful” to impress her, willing to achieve this goal by any means necessary (he already wanted to for himself but now he felt he could justify it). Meanwhile, Daniel was born in 1990, and all four of them were regularly exposed to magic and ectoplasm as Jack and Maddie experimented with it; lab safety was never something they concerned themselves with, usually too focused on the experiment itself to considering wasting time doing it safely.

While they did believe in ghosts, and similar supernatural phenomenon, they did not believe in magic, let alone humans that could wield it; superheroes that (claimed to) use magic were common knowledge, but the Fentons believed that they were just saying it was magic, to fit a theme and/or keep it mysterious, but they always defended the notion that is was just science they didn't understand (but they totally could if they wanted to!). They refused to understand that what was essentially ectoplasmic “ghost magic” was actually from the same source as human magic, so anytime their ghost equipment reacted to magic-wielding-but-otherwise-normal humans they thought they needed to refine their search, even though it was working as intended. This fundamental misunderstanding meant that they were trying to isolate something that was actually a subset of something they didn’t believe existed.

By 2004, they tried to recreate the ghost portal they’d abandoned decades ago; Vlad’s accident had actually traumatized them enough for them to skirt around the idea of trying again for over two decades, though they don’t consciously realize that. It didn’t work at first, so Jack and Maddie took a break, just long enough for the now 14 year old Danny to have his infamous accident. Due to the prolonged exposure to ectoplasm/Lazarus Water growing up, Danny's body was more receptive to it and he was able to absorb a lot of it from the Ghost Zone at the exact moment that he was electrocuted to death, giving him access to a lot of powerful abilities and reducing his recovery time compared to Vlad.

And so the story begins...

[inkbomber]

okay my spoilery [movie3 and my fic] chaos theory [not that one] + godhood scribbling on the wall of my cell [largely incoherent] rambling below the cut

CHAOS THEORY THOUGHTS — CHAOS ENERGY — FRIENDSHIP, LOVE, UNDERSTANDING ABLE TO TRIGGER CHAOS CONTROL MORE EASILY

THAT’S ALSO WHY HE NEEDED THE SATELLITE SHIT, ORIGINALLY THIS WAS A PURSUIT OF CHAOS CONTROL AS PERFECT ENERGY SOURCE

ROBOTNIK CAN’T SAY I LOVE YOU, BECAUSE WHAT IF HE’S LYING? WHAT IF HE SAYS IT, AND THEIR LINK DOESN’T HUM? IS HE EVEN CAPABLE OF LOVE? WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR STONE TO BE THE ONLY ONE WHO LOVES HIM?

OH MY GOD.

ROBOTNIK NEEDS TO MAKE MUSHROOM COFFEE AND LICK THE QUILL TO GET HIS MIND WORKING FAST ENOUGH TO LOOP ON IT’S OWN, LIKE SONIC HAD TO BREAK A KIND OF SPEED BARRIER WHERE HIS PHYSICAL POINT IN SPACE TIME WAS IN TWO PLACES AT ONCE - HE’S NOT CRAZY HE’S NOT FUCKING CRAZY FOR ANY OF HIS SCIENTIFIC DECISIONS HE IS IN FACT THE SMARTEST MAN IN THE FUCKING WORLD HOLY SHIT

THIS GUY WAS ABOUT TO BREAK RING TECHNOLOGY WIDE OPEN, THIS IS A MAN WHO NEEDED AN EMPIRE’S WORTH OF RESOURCES TO OPEN HUMANITY UP TO IT’S FULL POTENTIAL, DUTY IS LOVE IS POWER THEY REVERBERATE OFF EACH OTHER IN A WAY THAT ACTIVELY SPARKS ROBOTNIK’S ENTIRE EXISTENCE HIS TIMELINE PLUCKED HIS TIME IN EMERALD MODE A LITERAL INCARNATION OF [THE UNIVERSE] HE IS ALL OF HIM IN THESE MOMENTS

IT IS HIS [literal] GOD COMPLEX THAT MAKES HIM CRAZY.

STRONG EMOTION REVERBERATING THROUGH PEOPLE WHO ARE COSMICALLY LINKED CAUSES A FEEDBACK LOOP ON THE BEINGS THAT ARE CONNECTED, TRIGGERING [CHAOS POWER] USAGE

BEINGS THAT ARE ENTANGLED ARE CONSIDERED THE SAME BEING BY THE UNIVERSE, HENCE WHY SONIC AND SHADOW CAN GO GODMODE AT THE SAME TIME, AND WHY ROBOTNIK’S LIGHTENING DOESN’T INJURE STONE

ROBOTNIK YELLING AT STONE [stone seeking to understand him, as always] HAD SIMILAR EFFECT, WHICH IS WHY THE QUILL STARTED GLOWING IN STONE’S POCKET AT THAT MOMENT OH MY GOD

THE JOLT FROM THE QUILL SPEEDS ROBOTNIK’S MIND UP ENOUGH TO LOOP THAT FIRST TIME AS WELL BECAUSE HE AND STONE KISS AND MAKEUP AT THAT POINT, [STRONG EMOTION] HE’S SO FUCKING READY [THEY’RE BOTH EXCITED, THIS IS THE THING THEY’VE BEEN TRYING TO FIND FOR ALMOST TWO YEARS, IT’S UNBELIEVABLE THAT IT WAS DROPPED IN THEIR LAP LIKE THIS] HOLY SHIT

ROBOTNIK HAS BEEN FUCKING HIGH AS A KITE FOR MONTHS, SELF-ANALYZING SIX FUCKING WAYS FROM SUNDAY, AND COMING UP WITH INSANE NEW CHAOS THEORY STUFF, INCLUDING HIS FOCUSING, PURPOSEFULLY, ON HIS FEELINGS [LOVE, IDIOT] FOR STONE

AFTERALL, ATOMS THAT ARE ENTANGLED AGREE ON THEIR STATE, THEY THOUGHT ABOUT EACH OTHER EVERY DAY, ROBOTNIK DREAMED OF STONE EVERY NIGHT. I WONDER. IF. THEY EVER DREAMED TOGETHER? DID THEY HIT JUST THE RIGHT COSMIC CHORD, AND THE QUILL GLOWS IN HIS GRASP AS HE SLEEPS? FUCK.

STONE GETS KNOCKED OUT AND ROBOTNIK HAS TO RELY ON WRATH TO GET HIM THROUGH THE FIGHT

FUCK! SHADOW USING HIS LOVE FOR MARIA TO EXERT CHAOS CONTROL - I SWEAR THIS SHIT IS LITERALLY CANON OH MY GOD

THAT’S THE POWER OF LOVE BABY

7 EMERALDS, 7 SINS, EVERY BAD OR GROSS IMPULSE

ROBOTNIK REQUIRING BLOOD SACRIFICE LMAO, WONDERING HOW MUCH OF ALCHEMY IS ACTUALLY APPLICABLE, SCIENTISTS HAVEN’T ALWAYS BEEN CALLED SCIENTIST [fucked as any church] THEY WERE PHILOSOPHERS, MEDICINE WOMEN, WITCHES, SAINTS - half beloved, half reviled

THE EMERALD IS A CONTROLLER

HAVING LOVE IN YOUR HEART WILL SAVE YOU FROM THE OTHERWISE CATACLYSMIC EXPERIENCE OF BEING A HUMAN BEING

CHAOS USERS BEING LITERAL INCARNATIONS OF THE UNIVERSE’S WILL, ROBOTNIK FORCING HIMSELF INTO THAT POSITION THROUGH HIS LOVE FOR STONE AND ABUSE OF THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD, HE IS THE BEST, HE IS THE SMARTEST, HE WILL SURVIVE THE BLAST THROUGH HIS STRONG EMOTION, MANIPULATING HIS OWN LOVE OF STONE INTO A PURE SORT OF CONTROL, SHADOW SURVIVES THE SAME WAY

ORGANIC CHAOS USERS ARE SOMEHOW PROHIBITED FROM KNOWING THE NATURE OF GOLDEN GODHOOD

STONE REFINES THE BADNIKS ENERGY SOURCE, COPIES SONIC’S QUILL STRUCTURE, COLOR OF ENERGY GETS CLOSER TO BLUE THE CLOSER HE GETS [I LOVE YOU PURPLE BOY]

THE SONIC UNIVERSE IS A LOVING UNIVERSE

[beneathsilverstars]

i still have to draw clothes but FINISHED MY LOOP BODYCRAFT PROGRESSION...!!!!

headcanon explanations under the cut

Metaphorically, Loop is sort of like a piece of the cloak of The Universe (specifically, a Siffrin piece) pulled into the shape of Siffrin with a star on top. They're also sort of like an artificial well of magic, made out of and perpetually refilled by the stream of wish craft that was triggered by their new wishes.

In practice, their body is made out of pure craft, rather than blood and bone. It's proportioned the same as Siffrin's, but with some details evened out and others omitted, sort of like a barbie doll or spandex suit. Except instead of spandex over a human body, it's a layer of tangible starry craft over pure craft energy. The tangible skin feels a little bit staticky-warm, like touching an old CRT screen, and the fritzies that run across it are a stronger static shock. Since it's a field of energy, any parts of it that touch each other sort of meld together, and the longer they're together the harder it is to separate — never difficult, but the moment of separation is noticeable, like pulling apart weak magnets.

Their head is a field of increasing light and force, again similar to a magnet, but one that repels you. You move your hand into the light and it feels warm; closer, and you start to notice resistance and feel static pins and needles; closer, and the force increases until you feel like you're getting zapped by a prank shock pen and you can't push any farther in. This occurs an inch or so away from where their face would actually be. The shape of their face does still exist in there as a pattern of energy, most concretely around their eyes, but blurring out more towards the bottom of their face and back of their head. Loop can even sort of move the rest of their face — cheek muscles are used to squint the eyes, after all — but if they try to focus on what that physically feels like, it's weirdly numb and fuzzy.

Their chest star is the heart of the well from which their magic springs. It doesn't have the same increasing force field as their head, but if you actually touch it, it's not a physical surface, just pure zap. Not super comfortable for Loop, either, like, that's their soul you're touching.

So! Standard body craft won't work on Loop, because they're not made out of body. But they are made out of the ongoing effects of craft, so precise application of more craft can change them. It just takes a lot more trial and error to figure out how to do it!

First they focus on lessening all the inconvenient weird aspects. By looking at the difference between the diffuse glow of the rest of their head vs the more concentrated area of force around their eyes, they're able to figure out how to solidify the rest of their face a bit as well, so you can get closer before feeling any effect and then you meet resistance/zaps more suddenly. This makes it somewhat possible to see the contours of their face! And makes it feel less weird to them, too. Then they can use a similar technique to reduce the static effect of their skin, so it doesn't meld with itself oddly and the fritzies aren't so severe. They have permanently-separate toes again!

With that done, and a better idea now of how to work with their form, they're able to refine their methods and make use of some modified regular body crafting as well. They further solidify their face, and decide on a haircut to coax the rest of their head into approximating — short, so they don't have to worry about the physics of long strands. It can still be a bit hard to make out their features but the features are all there now, and the range of force so narrow that it feels like touching a solid object, though an oddly electric one that doesn't deform in quite the exact way skin should. And then, since Loop is customizing their body anyway, they do some physical transitioning!

As Siffrin, their body was one familiar constant through a foreign world, so any desire to change it was much smaller than their desire to keep it the same. But as Loop, their body was already utterly changed, so why not change it a bit more? Siffrin wasn't super keen on the organic physicality of the human body, but Loop is desperate to feel human again. So they finish refining details, and add a little body fat, and round it out, and do an even weirder and more magical version of weird magic bottom surgery. The chest is actually the hardest part because that's where their soul star is and it would not be a good idea to fuck with it, but they figure out how to carefully mold the area around it and let the pure magic force between just continue to do its thing.

None of their body works or feels the exact same way a human's would, but it's a pretty good approximation at this point. It's a lot easier to get used to the oddities that are left when they were able to change the worst of it, especially since they feel a lot more in-control now, too. And they can always continue to experiment and refine, or even bring back weird aspects if they want!

[hiddenincommand]

Discipline, Determination, and Dominance: Two Paths to Mastery

By Colonel Sir Cedric Wycliffe Hawthorne

The triad of Discipline, Determination, and Dominance forms the bedrock of true mastery. These values transcend roles, defining both the Alpha Master and the Omega Sub. Yet, while they exist within both, their application diverges radically. For the Alpha Master, Dedication is the fire that refines these principles into their sharpest form. For the Omega Sub, it is Devotion—the ultimate surrender—that elevates these values to their highest expression.

Discipline: Command or Surrender

Discipline is where all mastery begins. For the Alpha Master, it is an unyielding demand of the self. Discipline shapes his every thought, action, and decision. It is the mastery of emotion, the silencing of doubt, and the cold execution of will. Through discipline, the Alpha first conquers himself, for without self-mastery, no one can truly command others. His discipline is a weapon, forged to dominate.

For the Sub, discipline is no less important—but its source is external. It is a gift bestowed by the Master, a structure imposed upon chaos. The Sub’s discipline lies in their ability to obey, to follow, to yield completely. Where the Alpha wields discipline as control, the Sub embraces it as liberation. In surrendering to discipline, the Sub finds clarity and purpose. This paradox defines the delicate interplay of power and submission.

Determination: The Alpha’s Drive, the Sub’s Resolve

For the Alpha Master, determination is relentless. It is the drive to ascend, to achieve, to dominate. His determination fuels his progress, sharpens his vision, and carves his path to perfection. The Alpha’s determination is an unrelenting force, one that demands excellence and tolerates no weakness. Through sheer will, he transcends mediocrity and commands respect.

The Sub’s determination, however, takes a different form. It is quieter, but no less profound. It is the strength to endure, to submit, to commit entirely to the Master’s will. The Sub’s determination is not about personal ascent, but about perfecting their role as a reflection of the Master’s desires. To surrender so fully requires courage, strength, and unwavering resolve. It is an act of immense bravery disguised as humility.

Dominance: The Master’s Crown, the Sub’s Fulfillment

Dominance is the pinnacle of the triad, but its meaning shifts depending on the perspective. For the Alpha Master, dominance is the natural result of discipline and determination. It is the expression of control, the ability to bend others to his will. True dominance is not loud or insecure—it is embodied power, the kind that others instinctively respect and obey.

For the Sub, dominance is not something they wield, but something they amplify. The Sub does not seek to control but finds purpose in being controlled. In submitting to the Alpha’s dominance, the Sub achieves their highest form. Their role is to reflect and magnify the Master’s power, creating a harmony where submission becomes a form of greatness.

Dedication vs. Devotion: What Drives Transformation

The transformation of these values into their fullest potential depends on one crucial difference: Dedication for the Alpha Master and Devotion for the Omega Sub. Dedication is the Alpha’s sacred commitment to himself—a relentless pursuit of perfection, control, and strength. It is his fuel, pushing him beyond limits and toward mastery.

Devotion, on the other hand, is the Sub’s ultimate act of surrender. It is not a commitment to the self but a gift offered entirely to the Master. Devotion is the complete and unconditional giving of body, mind, and soul. Through devotion, the Sub transcends fear and weakness, transforming Discipline, Determination, and Dominance into acts of service that elevate both themselves and the Master. Devotion is strength in its purest, most selfless form.

A Symbiotic Balance

What becomes evident is that these two paths—Alpha and Sub—are not in opposition but in harmony. The Alpha’s dedication is magnified by the Sub’s devotion, while the Sub’s devotion finds purpose in the Alpha’s dominance. Together, they create a dynamic greater than the sum of its parts.

For the Alpha, the journey is one of refinement and relentless pursuit of power. For the Sub, it is one of surrender and selfless service. Both paths demand immense strength, but it is strength born from different sources—dedication for the Alpha, devotion for the Sub. Each transforms Discipline, Determination, and Dominance into virtues of the highest order, proving that power and submission, though seemingly opposed, are inextricably intertwined.

In the end, this dual perspective reveals the true essence of Discipline, Determination, and Dominance. They are not just values, but forces—forces that, when embraced, lead to mastery. Whether through the lens of dedication or devotion, these principles remain the foundation upon which greatness is built.

[serpentface]

so sorry if youve talked about this before, but what is hidije? (mentioned as something Palo ysed as epilepsy treatment in the past). And id love to hear anything else about traditional medications/drugs used in this universe in general!

It's an alchemical Concoction that has fine particles of silver as a core ingredient (which is widely believed in the region to have broad purifying qualities) along with ground black pearl (specifically thought to ward off curses and evil spirits). This is why prolonged use can result in a form of argyria.

Epilepsy is at least understood as originating within the brain, so attempted treatments mostly target the head and are often the same treatments used for migraines. The two other main components of hidije are a type of willow bark (which can relieve headaches), and the leaf of the hidijenum tree (which has some sedative effects). Other herbal and medicinal components may be added as needed for the individual patient. The ingredients are boiled in wine and consumed in small doses on a regular basis.

In Wardi medical theory, the silver and pearl are spiritually purifying agents that may weaken the evil spirits that cause epilepsy (as well as most forms of disease), while the willow bark and hidijenum leaf treat the physical damage and improper bloodflow to the brain that these spirits cause. This condition is permanent and the spirits cannot be fully expelled, but regular treatment will weaken them and assist the body's natural self-purification processes, and thus should reduce the frequency of seizures.

No component of hidije is an actual anticonvulsant, and there are no direct and efficacious treatments available for epilepsy, just mitigation methods. Hidije consumption may provide a degree of physical comfort and relaxation via its sedative qualities, and (aside from argyria when used for many years) does not have harmful effects in typical doses and frequencies. Overuse can result in physical dependency on the sedative hidijenum, especially in more expensive forms of hidije in which the plant matter is alchemically refined.

---

Traditional medicine in Imperial Wardin is a very broad body of knowledge and folk belief. The underlying theory is related to other cultural applications of body taboo/spiritual pollution/curses, and supplemented by a degree of rigorous medical scholarship in the region (which peaked during the reign of the 3rd Burri Empire).

The core conceit is:

The body and spirit exist in a natural balance. The spirit physically inhabits the blood, and its proper flow through the body ensures normal bodily functions. The body is constantly bombarded by sources of pollution and has some internal defenses (healthy blood is a purifying agent, spitting can expel minor evil spirits, curses, and wandering ghosts invited by invocation via speech, and urination is the body expelling day to day spiritual impurities). However, the body is highly vulnerable and must be protected from uncontrolled metaphysical vulnerability in order to avoid curses and spiritual pollution. When cursed or spiritually polluted, the flow of spirit/blood is interrupted (either systemically or to certain points in the body), which can cause physical ailments (as well as more spiritual concerns). There are several kinds of evil spirit in the world, one of which causes disease. These are called dagia. They feed on the spirit in blood as tiny, invisible parasites, which can result in various ailments and contagious disease, depending on how much of the blood is infected and where pure blood flow is interrupted. Infection is much likelier when metaphysically vulnerable/polluted, but their entrance of the body is physical and occurs through orifices and wounds. Systemic infections by dagia result in contagious disease. Lifelong afflictions such as epilepsy are generally caused by dagia entering the body while in the womb (especially via the mother having been cursed), and permanently sealed into one's very being during the exceptionally metaphysically vulnerable moment of birth. Therefore, the dagia cannot be truly expelled, but may be subdued and restrained through proper treatment. (By this same virtue, a central part of any midwife's job is to dispel any curses on the infant, ensure its immediate purification, and magically shield it during its vulnerable period. Wealthier mothers may hire priestesses devoted specifically to this practice)

Diseases are both spiritual and physical in nature and thus require both spiritual and physical treatment (the lines between the two are not always well defined). In Hidije, the ingestion of silver is purely spiritual- it's not thought to act directly on the body but to purify the spirit. The willow bark and hidijenum are thought to (and do) interact directly on the body, and to help heal physical damage caused by the interruption of pure blood flow.

Treatments are a wide range of herbalism and other traditional medicines (animal parts are used as well and have a litany of ascribed benefits), strict cleanliness regiments (which double as spiritual purification), and dietary regimines. Bloodletting is used to remove bad blood polluted by dagia at certain points in the body in the case of serious infection (this is distinct from the ritual bloodletting used in prayer, which is an offering of one's pure blood/spirit. Dagia infested blood is an impure substance). A treatment similar in form (though not very similar in theory) to acupuncture is used to gently treat the blood in less dire circumstances, or as a preventative measure.

All this combined results in treatments that range widely between those that would be supported by evidence based medicine, those with ambiguous/no effect, and those that actively make things worse. All in all this system is not wildly effective but has its benefits, and is far from the worst medical system for the setting.

Main strengths

The dagia disease model understands the physical entry of disease into the body (while not directly conceptualizing microbes), leading to safer handling of infectious disease (even including barrier methods protecting the nose and mouth when in proximity to illness).

Many of its treatments are based in direct evidence, acquired both via longstanding cultural knowledge and more recent medical experimentation. This system is fluid and methods of treatment are readily reshaped when confronted with new knowledge (though not the core theoretical elements, which are rooted in religious belief and change on a more gradual scale).

As with herbalism in general, many of the herbal elements have direct physical effects on the body and may be beneficial (willow bark really does have mild pain relief properties, etc).

Wound-cleaning is understood as of utmost import (a wound is more vulnerable than orifices to the entrance of evil spirits, as it directly exposes the blood). Strong alcohol and vinegar is used to clean wounds and avoid infection (not the absolute best method, but one of the better available in this setting).

alchemy (as a form of proto-chemistry) exists and is effective enough to isolate and concentrate naturally occurring compounds with beneficial elements (ie salicylic acid from plants can be refined into a smaller and stronger doses than can be acquired in direct consumption of plant matter) (there's also some pretty damn strong drugs available by the same virtue, mostly in the form of opioids and stimulants).

Physical parasites are generally well understood (though infections by microscopic parasites will be assumed to be dagia).

[pokemon-academy-official]

could you write an article about the history of pokedex and how it came to be what it is now? thank you!

Thank you for the question!

History of the Pokédex... that's quite the topic. There's enough here to write a book. In fact, Professor Hyacinth has; Development and Iteration of the Modern Digital Pokédex was published in 2021, and it's 377 pages long!

In all seriousness, this is a complicated and involved topic. What follows is a (very) abridged history of the models of the Pokédex.

Early Pokédexes

The basic concept of a Pokédex is very old; a written description of the basic appearance and abilities of local Pokémon. These have existed for nearly as long as humans and Pokémon have lived together.

During the settlement of Sinnoh (then referred to as Hisui), Professor Laventon created the first example of what would be recognized as a Pokédex today. Though still a written book, it was the first to include illustrations, type information, height and weight measurements, and gender differences.

(Recently, there has been some debate over the validity of some of the claims about Laventon, particularly his involvement with developing the Apricorn Pokéball. However, his involvement with the Pokédex remains unchallenged.)

This idea continued to be used worldwide for well over 100 years before being significantly changed!

The Digital Era

In 1997, the first digital Pokédex was released by Professor Oak in Kanto. It was similar to the written versions that came before it but contained in a small digital device, with editing capabilities for the user to enter new information about caught Pokémon. Since the Kanto region's Pokémon had not yet been fully cataloged, Oak gathered the remaining information with the help of volunteer Trainers. This model of gathering information for a cutting-edge model of Pokédex with Trainers before releasing it to the public has become standard.

Oak's model of Pokédex was refined further into the now widespread HANDY line. Later models featured holographic components and customizable exteriors.

The functionality of the Pokédex grew as well. As it evolved, it was able to store and categorize a Pokémon's cry, footprints, color, "Egg Groups" (essentially, which Pokémon can breed with others), forms, and locations found in the wild. It could also display information specific to a particular individual Pokémon, such as its "Stats" and "Level".

In Alola, a device was designed specifically for a Rotom to inhabit and act as a sort of sentient Pokédex with enhanced capabilities. This model was short-lived and quite rare.

The Pokédex App

As smartphones become more and more prominent, an opportunity for the Pokédex to be a mobile app became more and more apparent. Unfortunately, smartphones didn't have quite the capabilities to keep all of the features that Trainers had grown accustomed to.

Inspired by the Rotom Pokédex of Alola, it was found that a Rotom inhabiting a smartphone greatly enhanced its capabilities. Armed with this breakthrough, Naranja-Uva Academy's Jacq was able to develop the Pokédex App. This application keeps all the functionality of previous models, with the convenience of being available on one's smartphone. This was quickly adopted as standard in Paldea (Jacq's home region), and shortly after in Galar. The Pokédex App is seeing more and more use across the world today.

We are endlessly proud that our sister academy was able to so significantly contribute to the history of one of our society's most integral tools!

[peggycatrerr]

i think it’s really really important that we keep reminding people that what we’re calling ai isn’t even close to intelligent and that its name is pure marketing. the silicon valley tech bros and hollywood executives call it ai because they either want it to seem all-powerful or they believe it is and use that to justify their use of it to exploit and replace people.

chat-gpt and things along those lines are not intelligent, they are predictive text generators that simply have more data to draw on than previous ones like, you know, your phone’s autocorrect. they are designed to pass the turing test by having human-passing speech patterns and syntax. they cannot come up with anything new, because they are machines programmed on data sets. they can’t even distinguish fact from fiction, because all they are actually capable of is figuring out how to construct a human-sounding response using applicable data to a question asked by a human. you know how people who use chat-gpt to cheat on essays will ask it for reference lists and get a list of texts that don’t exist? it’s because all chat-gpt is doing is figuring out what types of words typically appear in response to questions like that, and then stringing them together.

midjourney and things along those lines are not intelligent, they are image generators that have just been really heavily fine-tuned. you know how they used to do janky fingers and teeth and then they overcame that pretty quickly? that’s not because of growing intelligence, it’s because even more photographs got added to their data sets and were programmed in such a way that they were able to more accurately identify patterns in the average amount of fingers and teeth across all those photos. and it too isn’t capable of creation. it is placing pixels in spots to create an amalgamation of images tagged with metadata that matches the words in your request. you ask for a tree and it spits out something a little quirky? it’s not because it’s creating something, it’s because it gathered all of its data on trees and then averaged it out. you know that “the rest of the mona lisa” tweet and how it looks like shit? the fact that there is no “rest” of the mona lisa aside, it’s because the generator does not have the intelligence required to identify what’s what in the background of such a painting and extend it with any degree of accuracy, it looked at the colours and approximate shapes and went “oho i know what this is maybe” and spat out an ugly landscape that doesn’t actually make any kind of physical or compositional sense, because it isn’t intelligent.

and all those ai-generated voices? also not intelligent, literally just the same vocal synth we’ve been able to do since daisy bell but more advanced. you get a sample of a voice, break it down into the various vowel and consonant sounds, and then when you type in the text you want it to say, it plays those vowel and consonant sounds in the order displayed in that text. the only difference now is that the breaking it down process can be automated to some extent (still not intelligence, just data analysis) and the synthesising software can recognise grammar a bit more and add appropriate inflections to synthesised voices to create a more natural flow.

if you took the exact same technology that powers midjourney or chat-gpt and removed a chunk of its dataset, the stuff it produces would noticeably worsen because it only works with a very very large amount of data. these programs are not intelligent. they are programs that analyse and store data and then string it together upon request. and if you want evidence that the term ai is just being used for marketing, look at the sheer amount of software that’s added “ai tools” that are either just things that already existed within the software, using the same exact tech they always did but slightly refined (a lot of film editing software are renaming things like their chromakey tools to have “ai” in the name, for example) or are actually worse than the things they’re overhauling (like the grammar editor in office 365 compared to the classic office spellcheck).

but you wanna real nifty lil secret about the way “ai” is developing? it’s all neural nets and machine learning, and the thing about neural nets and machine learning is that in order to continue growing in power it needs new data. so yeah, currently, as more and more data gets added to them, they seem to be evolving really quickly. but at some point soon after we run out of data to add to them because people decided they were complete or because corporations replaced all new things with generated bullshit, they’re going to stop evolving and start getting really, really, REALLY repetitive. because machine learning isn’t intelligent or capable of being inspired to create new things independently. no, it’s actually self-reinforcing. it gets caught in loops. "ai” isn’t the future of art, it’s a data analysis machine that’ll start sounding even more like a broken record than it already does the moment its data sets stop having really large amounts of unique things added to it.