#Society Maintenance Law

[advocate-paresh-m-modi]

Tenant Maintenance and Co-operative Housing Society Disputes, सोसायटी भाडवात से या मकान मालीक से, भाडे पर दी गई प्रोपर्टी के लिये दुसरे मेम्बर्स से ज्यादा मेंटेन्नस नही ले सकती...

[stressinginmy20s]

I can’t wait till I live in a high rise somewhere downtown and all my dreams have become reality🥹🥹💐💐🙏🏾🤞🏾😚🤞🏾

[melonpond]

I think it should be absolutely mandatory that people work at least a month in a blue collar job and take time to learn about their coworkers before making a statement about blue collar work. I simply think it would fix so many things.

[pinkpigtailsprincess]

𝜗𝜚 ݁ ˖ Summer Glow up: creating new habits 🎀⭐️ *࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ!

Hi Dolls!! Welcome Back 2 Dollies 2 Months of Summer Glow Up !! 🎀⭐️ Today im gonna talk all about implementing brand new habits in my life !!

> Hobbies !! 🎀

> Academics !! 📒

> Beauty Care !! 🧖‍♀️

> Scheduling !! ☀️

> Taking Baby Steps !! 🛼

❤︎ ໋𓈒 Hobbies!! 🎀

…: This Summer I Plan on Taking up Some brand New Hobbies to keep my self busy and learn about brand new things bc everyday is useful!! and so i can use my time more wisely some hobbies i have in mind are…

- Yoga

- Painting

- Creative Writing

- Learning Japanese + Spanish

- Reading

- Puzzles!

- Blogging

- Learning To Code

- Doll Collecting

- Book Collecting

- Sewing + Crocheting

- Digital Art

- Piano

and obvii im already a blogger but i still added it anyways i will watching videos on how to get into these hobbies and videos on learning Spanish and more Japanese, also fun fact i’ve actually been studying Japanese sine 2021 but i stopped bc it got to hard but im starting back up!! anyways, after i watch the videos im gonna set up a financial list bc i have the fund all of these but its okay bc i can easily get money!! 🎀

❤︎ ໋𓈒 Academics !! 🎀

More Goals of mine are to raise my grades in an academic space bc i do have decent grades but i wanna aim higher and have PERFECT Grades so in turn that means i must study more and have more discipline and not so irresponsible with my time!! and i also wanna study subjects outside of school bc its always good to learn something new!! now for learning tips so far i have..

- Flash Cards

- Practice Methods

- Teaching Someone Else

- Trying to explain it to a 5 yr old

- Study a Week Before

- watch ted talks on topics

- SLEEP

- write out notes

Now i Also Have a list of subjects i want to learn about!!

- drawing facial expressions + bodies

- Sewing Stiches + How to Hem and Crochet

- How 2 Draw Bodies + Poses

- Full Anatomy 4 Both Genders

- Japanese + Spanish + French + ASL

- Color Theory

- Learning Cursive + Improving Handwriting

- Expanding Vocabulary

- Religious Cults

- Case and Law

- Poison and Toxicology

- Astronomy

- Medical Surgical Instruments

- Matriarchal Societies

- Socialism Societies

Now i definitely won’t be able to do all of this all at once bc it would definitely we too stressful so im gonna choose as least 2-3 to start with and study them and just learn! 🎀🧁

❤︎ ໋𓈒 Beauty Care !! 🐬

📧: Now I already have my regular beauty care regime skin,hair,eyebrows,eyelashes etc. but im also more focused on getting weekly treatments & weekly beauty care habits like…

- Nails

- Hair

- Eyelashes

- Face Mask

- Hand + Foot Mask

And i wanna try and find people in my city that can do this especially for nails bc i would go to the nail salon but i feel like they won’t be able to do it exactly how i want it to be !!!

❤︎ ໋𓈒 Scheduling !! ⭐️

Now That im gonna be so busy i need to make sure i also stay organized with my time so it doesn’t lead to stress so ill have my regular school classes on my regular schedule then making dedicated hours to studying Things i wanna learn about + Language Learning!

My Workouts are always early morning before school in the evening hours before i got to bed so i won’t have to worry about that affecting my academics. With my Hobbies i feel like only some of them really need scheduling so ill also make time dedicated to those as well !!!!

Beauty Maintenance will probably always be on weekends for the stuff that weekly/bi weekly like face masks,manipedis,hair etc!!

and last but definitely not least!!

❤︎ ໋𓈒 Taking Baby Steps !! ⭐️

This whole process is still all new too me so i’ll definitely only be doing a little at a time and working my way up and i get more familiar with the change in my daily life and i won’t pressure my self to complete everything extremely quickly and just take my time with everything! bye bye dolls tysm 4 keeping up with me while doing this kisses 4 all of u!!! 🎀⭐️

[phantomfallacy]

There’s not nearly enough analyses of Wriothesley and the panopticon that is Meropide.

Like, sure, the connection is there, but are your lines connecting to the right points? Because if you think Wriothesley’s office is the control tower and the Fortress is his all-knowing domain, I think you’re wrong.

Spoilers for his character quest and the Meropide world quest ahead, as well as various tidbits in mini quests:

The Unfinished Comedy reveals that there is a child who had been born in the prison, more or less a decade ago. More than enough time for Wriothesley to “discover” her. But he doesn’t. He is, without a doubt, an advocator of children, and would never allow her to stay in prison if he can help it. No matter what excuse there is, such as being busy with the reformation of the prison, the Fatui invasion, or the Wingalet construction, it doesn’t negate the fact that Wriothesley doesn’t know, or he would’ve acted.

The Beret Society as well, while coming under Wriothesley’s purview, has existed long enough to brainwash and break the spirits of the people who have joined. He had no evidence that Dougier had been breaking rules and infringing on human rights.

So no, Wriothesley, contrary to the Fortress of Meropide description, does not know everything that goes on in the Fortress, and he tells us so.

So then why does the description say otherwise?

The concept of the panopticon is that a single prison warden can maintain order because people will never be able to tell if his eyes are on them. As a result, they will behave, regardless of whether the warden is truly watching or not. Wriothesley tells us that he doesn’t have eyes and ears everywhere because we are not a prisoner. We do not need to be intimidated into behaving. Moreover, the Traveler seems to be an exception to everything like a harem protagonist so let’s discount “our” knowledge of Wriothesley’s claim.

What I think slaps the most though, is that his panopticon isn’t just the Fortress, but the Court of Fontaine as well.

It is mentioned that Wriothesley knows the ongoings of the overworld despite rarely coming up. The citizens of Fontaine see Meropide as this horrible place, even after Wriothesley’s reforms, and it’s not only because of prejudice (though that is most certainly the case), but because of his refusal to be perceived. He refuses Charlotte’s interviews, though being a Duke would most certainly put him in the eye of the public. This is a tentative maintenance of his public persona: that of a cruel and unfathomable man.

“The less people see of me, the happier they will be.”

If people understood that Meropide had welfare meals, stable work hours, and relatively accessible healthcare, why would they be incentivized to follow the law? Especially those of Fleuvre Cendre. But Meropide cannot possibly be that kind of haven. It is a prison, and forever should be—because it is not sustainable.

What humans cannot understand, they fear, and that works to keep the rest of Fontaine in check from committing crimes. No one wants to go to prison, no one wants to suffer, no one wants to see the Duke of Meropide. It’s embedded into the very society, so much that they have pop culture-like phrases for it.

The Duke’s office isn’t the control tower. The whole of Meropide Fortress is, and Fontaine is the “prison.”

There are other interpretations of course, such as the factor of more recent commentary on panopticons and how they bring up the topic of holding those in absolute power accountable. The warden at the center of the panopticon has absolute power, but how is he to be kept accountable?

It could be a hint about how Wriothesley isn’t as in control as he presents himself, and the way he rules is dependent on the people who keep him in check. After all, he says that as Duke, he must set an example of persecuting only after evidence has been found of a wrongdoing, otherwise he could have simply killed Dougier. However, that would certainly bring the Fortress down around him as people questioned his reputation as a fair ruler. (Cough bringing back my sword of Damocles bullshit here//shot).

Alternatively, Wriothesley himself could be a sword of Damocles upon Fontaine, evidenced by Neuvillette’s story quest, but I feel like that would be a Wriolette thread…

Without the source material confirming anything, we’re just playing with Schrödinger’s cat though. Just some food for thought.

Next time on Dragon Ball Z: my TED Talk on why the Fortress of Meropide is not called the Fortress of Atlantis because Wriothesley presents it as communism but it is totalitarian and why that works— (Kidding, I don’t wanna touch this with a ten foot pole pls don’t respond with political philosophies I will perish 🫠🫠🫠😵)

[tanadrin]

This is maybe a mundane observation but it’s interesting to me the way a system of extensively theologians divine reward and punishment not only distorts moral reasoning in undesirable ways, but renders it incoherent. It’s one thing for your Iron Age society to deal with the problem of evil by saying the scales are balanced by divine fiat after death. That is a pretty appealing patch to the patently unjust experience of living in the world. But the theological elaboration of this rule under more elaborate soteriologies—including with the endless temptation to use them not just as a comfort but as a tool of politics, and harmonizing them with traditional cultural narratives—produces unintuitive results: things which carry no obvious moral valence have to have it added, or their moral valence has to be heightened (or even inverted!) against intuition, in order to keep the elaborate framework in which they are now embedded functioning. Concrete example: it is very, very funny to me when evangelical Christian literature tries to end with some big moral lesson, especially when it’s explicitly proselytizing literature, that makes no goddam sense unless you are already deeply steeped in the evangelical theological worldview. Like those Chick tracts that end “The WORST sin, little Timmy, worse than lies or theft or murder, is man trying to set himself up as God!” Like… okay, pride is bad, your potential convert may be thinking. But what does that even *mean*? How is that relevant to *my* life? And why is pride(?) a worse sin than murder? Catholics also have a problem where they do this with sexual ethics: the occasional Catholic theologian has gotten themselves so twisted about they end up arguing masturbation is worse than rape. That’s pretty repellent to modern moral intuitions! That’s gonna be a real hard sell to anybody who is not the particular flavor of hopped-up-on-natural-law Platonist that you only find in the deep crevices of Catholic theology. And this makes a nonzero amount of sense: most efforts at proselytization seem to me to really to be efforts at boundary maintenance, with the occasional convert as a secondary benefit. But I do wonder if deeply religious types ever notice that—never mind just having very different values—they actually struggle to even communicate their own values effectively to ppl in other contexts they’re in dialogue with.

[i-cant-sing]

I'm not trying to be rude or anything genuinely, but doesn't Islam support pedophilia and child marriage? As well as oppression of women? It's a beautiful religion, but when you sit and read these old laws that are still practiced today and never abolished....

*sigh* what laws? what proof do you have for all your claims?

I'm gonna assume about the child marriage and pd thing that you're referring to Prophet Muhammad's marriage to Aisha, and if u do a little google research you'll find many answers refuting the claim of him marrying him when she was a child, that she was married at this age and consummated the marriage at another, that she was actually a teen and the scribes just didnt write her age right or things got lost in translation, that a person is considered mature when they can be held responsible for their actions, or when women start menses, or that Aisha was actually a highly intelligent woman and she was far more mature for her age. The more you research, the more you'll find out about this claim. Its better in their words than mine, especially since youre not the first person in 1400 years to raise this accusation.

What I will say is that at the end of the day, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had MANY enemies, so if such claims were true, I think they would've used every opportunity they could bring him down. They would've used it against him. They could've used it when he passes away.

AND that medieval times and european countries did marry off their royal kids for years, even if the kids did not consent. But i feel like no one accuses them of pd and child marriages, no no- everything is bad when Islam is involved, hm?

You say that Islam oppresses women. I think no other religion is as protective and progressive as Islam when it comes to women, all u have to do is to not CONFUSE religion with culture.

Imma give you a few examples of just how Islam treats women, and feel free to tell me any other religion or culture that gives as many rights to women as Islam:

Considering the fact that before the advent of Islam the pagan Arabs used to bury their female children alive, make women dance naked in the vicinity of the Ka'ba during their annual fairs, and treat women as mere chattels and objects of sexual pleasure possessing no rights or position whatsoever, these teachings of the Noble Qur'an were revolutionary. Unlike other religions, which regarded women as being possessed of inherent sin and wickedness and men as being possessed of inherent virtue and nobility, Islam regards men and women as being of the same essence created from a single soul. The Qur'an declares:

O mankind! Reverence your Guardian-Lord, who created you from a single person, created, of like nature, his mate, and from this pair scattered (like seeds) countless men and women. Reverence Allah, through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and reverence the wombs (that bore you); for Allah ever watches over you. (4:1)

"Women are considered inferior to men." No. This is so wrong. The Shari'ah regards women as the spiritual and intellectual equals of men. The main distinction it makes between them is in the physical realm based on the equitable principle of fair division of labor. It allots the more strenuous work to the man and makes him responsible for the maintenance of the family. It allots the work of managing the home and the upbringing and training of children to the woman, work which has the greatest importance in the task of building a healthy and prosperous society.

The pagan society of pre-Islamic Arabia had an irrational prejudice against their female children whom they used to bury alive. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) was totally opposed to this practice. He showed them that supporting their female children would act as a screen for them against the fire of Hell:

It is narrated by the Prophet's wife, 'A'isha, that a woman entered her house with two of her daughters. She asked for charity but 'A'isha could not find anything except a date, which was given to her. The woman divided it between her two daughters and did not eat any herself. Then she got up and left. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) came to the house, 'A'isha told him about what had happened and he declared that when the woman was brought to account (on the Day of Judgment) about her two daughters they would act as a screen for her from the fires of Hell.

You know how in the west, there's like so many divorce stories about how the wife didnt change her surname to her husbands? YEah, Islam does not do that. It allows women to keep their name even after marriage.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said this in his farewell pilgrimmage:

"Fear Allah regarding women. Verily you have married them with the trust of Allah, and made their bodies lawful with the word of Allah. You have got (rights) over them, and they have got (rights) over you in respect of their food and clothing according to your means."

Woman as mother commands great respect in Islam. The Noble Qur'an speaks of the rights of the mother in a number of verses. It enjoins Muslims to show respect to their mothers and serve them well even if they are still unbelievers. The Prophet states emphatically that the rights of the mother are paramount. Abu Hurairah reported that a man came to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and asked: "O Messenger of Allah, who is the person who has the greatest right on me with regards to kindness and attention?" He replied, "Your mother." "Then who?" He replied, "Your mother." "Then who?" He replied, "Your mother." "Then who?" He replied, "Your father."

How many of you can say that my religion/culture says that "Paradise is under my mother's feet" (which means that as long as you serve your mom well, you could enter heaven). In another tradition, the Prophet advised a believer not to join the war against the Quraish in defense of Islam, but to look after his mother, saying that his service to his mother would be a cause of his salvation. Mu'awiyah, the son of Jahimah, reported that Jahimah came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and said, " Messenger of Allah! I want to join the fighting (in the path of Allah) and I have come to seek your advice." He said, "Then remain in your mother's service, because Paradise is under her feet."

Some of you will claim that oooh women are oppressed because they have to wear hijab or cover up- girls, listen. If you've ever listened to locker room talk, if you ever KNEW just how most boys think about the female body, you would actually wish to wear an iron armour and hide away forever. I've seen men GAWK, and CATCALL women that were covered from head-to-toe... I used to think that you know, maybe its fine to have a niqaab that shows your eyes, surely no man could ever be into that. No. Nope. If you havent realised it yet, then you will experience it first hand one day that eyes are literally "the windows to the soul"- like you know how writers often mention getting lost in their lover's eyes, or how beautiful someones's eyes are- yeah... theres a reason for it.Look around you, look at your friends's or family memebers eyes and you'll know just how much the eyes talk, how much they convey.

When Islam was introduced, for the first time women could have share in their inheritance.

But Islam tells women to stay at homes- NO IT DOES NOT (please read any context)! 'A'isha reported that Saudah bint Zam'ah went out one night. 'Umar saw her and recognized her and said, "By God, O Saudah, why do you not hide yourself from us?" She went back to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and told him about it while he was having supper in her room, and he said, "It is permitted by Allah for you to go out for your needs." The predominant idea in the teachings of Islam with regard to men and women is that a husband and wife should be full-fledged partners in making their home a happy and prosperous place, that they should be loyal and faithful to one another, and genuinely interested in each other's welfare and the welfare of their children. A woman is expected to exercise a humanizing influence over her husband and to soften the sternness inherent in his nature. A man is enjoined to educate the women in his care so that they cultivate the qualities in which they, by their very nature, excel.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has on many accounts, many times advised men to be gentle, to be kind to women. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has said: "The best of you are those who are best to their women."

These are just a few examples but I think that if you were to open your eyes and look at it with a broader mind, you'll see Islam is not what you were taught to believe. I dont believe in coincidences that much, so I think that the very fact that you sent me this ask may be a sign that something deeper inside you is telling you to do your own research, that even you dont believe that Islam is this "oppressive and backward" religion.

Hope this helped <3

[wonderlandsakura]

Everlasting trio but Ellie is their daughter and Dan is their estranged adult son that they're trying to build a relationship back up with and Danny and Vlad have a weird divorced-but-still-co-parenting relationship over both children where Vlad pays maintenance and takes the kids on weekends and holidays.

That is to say, Everlasting trio move to crime alley in Gotham and set up a family restaurant with their kids that are much to old to be their kids and enough money to throw around to and give to street kids and create boarding towns and generally revitalize the area they live in like mob bosses without the need for protection money or bank robbing and it's enough to flag them, even with Sam's family money.

Also Danny is the Ghost King, so more random money.

People ask where the kids are and they say they're with their other father and everyone is weirded the fuck out and it's wonderful chaos :3

More Random Ideas below the cut

Ellie lives with them most of the time but Dan has a job at the Daily Planet and lives in metropolis.

However he's known to come by for the sole purpose of messing with Black Mask for some unknown reason (that I also don't know, maybe it's courting, maybe it's revenge) and often rolls up to the shop with him tossed over his shoulder gagged up or with a bag of his left socks or mentions having to leave soon to steal X item he just replaced and Everlasting trio don't blink an eye.

Jason is a regular and he and the goon union (cause Sam gave them the presentation and set them up with the representative) love and protect the place and it's owners (though they don't need it).

Ellie goes to Gotham U and terrorizes Dami and Jon and also confuses them with her tales of traveling and hints at her Tragic Backstory TM.

Jazz lives nearby and works at Arkham and works with her sister-in-law to try and get the higher ups to start the Rogue Rehabilitation Program where rogues like the Riddler, Poison Ivy and Harley can feed their obsessions in a healthier way that doesn't harm society.

Sam also has tea and cakes and bitching at the industrialisation time on the second Sunday of every month (or once a fortnight when something especially shitty crops up).

Tucker may or may not moonlight as the tech support guy for some of the rogues.

Danny doesn't patrol, he's retired for a reason, but he became the part-time caretaker of the Gotham Observatory, which is right next to the Gotham Cemetery which he is also the part-time caretaker for and he has a reputation as that crazy, creepy but also genuinely kind and helpful dude that runs that restaurant in Crime Alley.

Maybe he also converses with Lady Gotham from time to time and just walks into endless silent shadows and walks right back out.

Vlad visits occasionally and he and Danny tend to end up in a shouting match that often leads to a brawl which always ends with them injured and holed up in a corner booth of the restaurant with their respective drinks quietly, furtively and civilly discussing something as if the fight had never happened. (The adult Fenton-Manson-Foleys just ignore it and if you ask, say "bonding" and move on)

The Fenton Parents sometimes... visit. It's Chaos.

Danny has very publicly brawled with Killer Croc at least once and can be seen bringing down food into the sewers for Grundy every evening after the shop closes.

[officiallordvetinari]

Below are 10 featured Wikipedia articles. Links and descriptions are below the cut.

On February 17, 1974, U.S. Army Private First Class Robert Kenneth Preston (1953–2009) took off in a stolen Bell UH-1B Iroquois "Huey" helicopter from Tipton Field, Maryland, and landed it on the South Lawn of the White House in a significant breach of security. Preston had enlisted in the Army to become a helicopter pilot. However, he did not graduate from the helicopter training course and lost his opportunity to attain the rank of warrant officer pilot. His enlistment bound him to serve four years in the Army, and he was sent to Fort Meade as a helicopter mechanic. Preston believed this situation was unfair and later said he stole the helicopter to show his skill as a pilot.

J. R. R. Tolkien, a fantasy author and professional philologist, drew on the Old English poem Beowulf for multiple aspects of his Middle-earth legendarium, alongside other influences. He used elements such as names, monsters, and the structure of society in a heroic age. He emulated its style, creating an impression of depth and adopting an elegiac tone. Tolkien admired the way that Beowulf, written by a Christian looking back at a pagan past, just as he was, embodied a "large symbolism" without ever becoming allegorical. He worked to echo the symbolism of life's road and individual heroism in The Lord of the Rings.

The construction of the first World Trade Center complex in New York City was conceived as an urban renewal project to help revitalize Lower Manhattan spearheaded by David Rockefeller. The project was developed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The idea for the World Trade Center arose after World War II as a way to supplement existing avenues of international commerce in the United States.

The Coterel gang (also Cotterill, fl. c. 1328 – 1333) was a 14th-century armed group that flourished in the North Midlands of England. It was led by James Coterel—after whom the gang is named—supported by his brothers Nicholas and John. It was one of several such groups that roamed across the English countryside in the late 1320s and early 1330s, a period of political upheaval with an associated increase in lawlessness in the provinces. Coterel and his immediate supporters were members of the gentry, and according to the tenets of the day were expected to assist the crown in the maintenance of law and order, rather than encourage its collapse.

Eunice Newton Foote (July 17, 1819 – September 30, 1888) was an American scientist, inventor, and women's rights campaigner. She was the first scientist to confirm that certain gases warm when exposed to sunlight, and that therefore rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels could increase atmospheric temperature and affect climate, a phenomenon now referred to as the Greenhouse effect. Born in Connecticut, Foote was raised in New York at the center of social and political movements of her day, such as the abolition of slavery, anti-alcohol activism, and women's rights. She attended the Troy Female Seminary and the Rensselaer School from age 17–19, gaining a broad education in scientific theory and practice.

Simonie Michael (Inuktitut: ᓴᐃᒨᓂ ᒪᐃᑯᓪ;  first name also spelled Simonee, alternative surnames Michel  or E7-551; March 2, 1933 – November 15, 2008) was a Canadian politician from the eastern Northwest Territories (now Nunavut) who was the first Inuk elected to a legislature in Canada. Before becoming involved in politics, Michael worked as a carpenter and business owner, and was one of very few translators between Inuktitut and English. He became a prominent member of the Inuit co-operative housing movement and a community activist in Iqaluit, and was appointed to a series of governing bodies, including the precursor to the Iqaluit City Council.

The St. Johns River (Spanish: Río San Juan) is the longest river in the U.S. state of Florida and it is the most significant one for commercial and recreational use. At 310 miles (500 km) long, it flows north and winds through or borders twelve counties. The drop in elevation from headwaters to mouth is less than 30 feet (9 m); like most Florida waterways, the St. Johns has a very slow flow speed of 0.3 mph (0.13 m/s), and is often described as "lazy".

Warlugulong is a 1977 acrylic on canvas painting by Indigenous Australian artist Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri. Owned for many years by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the work was sold by art dealer Hank Ebes on 24 July 2007, setting a record price for a contemporary Indigenous Australian art work bought at auction when it was purchased by the National Gallery of Australia for A$2.4 million. The painting illustrates the story of an ancestral being called Lungkata, together with eight other dreamings associated with localities about which Clifford Possum had traditional knowledge. It exemplifies a distinctive painting style developed by Papunya Tula artists in the 1970s, and blends representation of landscape with ceremonial iconography. Art critic Benjamin Genocchio describes it as "a work of real national significance [and] one of the most important 20th-century Australian paintings".

William Samuel Sadler (June 24, 1875 – April 26, 1969) was an American surgeon, self-trained psychiatrist, and author who helped publish The Urantia Book. The book is said to have resulted from Sadler's relationship with a man through whom he believed celestial beings spoke at night. It drew a following of people who studied its teachings.

Zebras (US: /ˈziːbrəz/, UK: /ˈzɛbrəz, ˈziː-/) (subgenus Hippotigris) are African equines with distinctive black-and-white striped coats. There are three living species: Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi), the plains zebra (E. quagga), and the mountain zebra (E. zebra). Zebras share the genus Equus with horses and asses, the three groups being the only living members of the family Equidae. Zebra stripes come in different patterns, unique to each individual. Several theories have been proposed for the function of these patterns, with most evidence supporting them as a deterrent for biting flies. Zebras inhabit eastern and southern Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats such as savannahs, grasslands, woodlands, shrublands, and mountainous areas.

[emelinstriker]

Red Son ♡ Parental Guidance Pt.2

Demon Bull King be like: "If I had a nickel for everytime I lost my son's diaper, I'd have two nickels. Which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice."

Just like the first part, Reader does exist in here, but the story revolves more around Red Son and your entire family chaos as a whole.

♤ Part 1

ⓘ Reader is FEMALE; (C/N) = Child's Name

♡ ~ Fluff ~ ♡

Finally, after an agonizingly long time of giving birth, the baby was finally in your arms. Red Son was anxiously holding your hand so tightly just half an hour prior, but now he was gently holding onto you and your child with a smile. He gave your temple a kiss while brushing his thumb over your hand, which was securely helping your arm hold up the baby that was previously crying.

"He looks so much like me when I was this small", he commented softly, making you huff in amusement.

"Well, do you wanna hold him?" 

His eyes lit up as his gaze met yours with a smile. That was enough of an answer for you to carefully hand your son over to your husband. You also told him how to hold the baby correctly so it doesn't get hurt or become uncomfortable. It didn't take long for tears to gather in his eyes as he gently held onto your child while his gaze softened at the sleeping potato. "Hello, little flame..."

And finally, all was at peace...

...

...Actually, that would be a lie.

Okay, Red Son did sign up for this when he decided to have a child with you. From the constant waking up in the nights to the multiple diaper changes and random vomit. He knew it would happen, and he was mentally prepared at the thought... But now he was having seconds thoughts on if he was actually prepared. Especially when it turns out his baby could sneeze fire.

Of all the scenarios he had prepared the nursery for, a fire-sneezing baby was not on his list. He did not account for the possibility that the baby could possess fire abilities before it even reached the two-months-mark. Hell, he had a plan for if the child somehow ended up inheriting part of the Samadhi Fire! Good thing he did not. You both were suspecting that your son either didn't have it or he has such a small amount that it wasn't a threat to himself or others.

That did not mean that he wasn't a threat to the furniture. Grandpa DBK once came in to check on the little one, only to watch in horror as the crib was set ablaze in front of his eyes. The baby was absolutely fine and was giggling among the flames like a tiny pyromaniac, don't worry.

That was definitely a child of the Demon Bull Family, no doubt about it.

However, due to the discovery of the baby already being this much of a tiny menace, you reluctantly let your husband rework the nursery to ensure such fire could not expand. And while the room was under maintenance, you were tasked with baby duty for probably the entire day. Honestly, you didn't really mind because your mother-in-law was there to help you out. After all, she and her husband were absolutely smitten by the little flaming menace to society. Princess Iron Fan's experience in the field of motherhood was both a great help and gave a lot of content to talk about for when you're bored.

"You would not believe how destructive Red Son was as a child", she commented as he sipped on her tea. Meanwhile you were rocking the baby in your arms, lulling it further into sleep. Your talk with the little one's grandma was quite boring in his point of view. She giggled into her hand.

"Your own child is pretty tame compared to what he managed to do. Then again, my husband wasn't helping the situation either." She then side-eyed the Demon Bull King, who was awkwardly trying to eat from his plate. Honestly, having his son here right now would've been better... at least then his wife wouldn't try to solely pick on him for embarrassing memories. Unfortunately, Red Son couldn't attend dinner this time due to the nursery incident. So DBK had to survive this on his own.

He swallowed the food he just munched on before huffing, "I personally don't think I was that bad in raising him."

"You set the kitchen on fire-"

"That was one time!"

"But the bottle itself was covered in flames four times. Not to mention the diaper incident that somehow happened twice-"

"I'm telling you, the smell came from every wall! How was I supposed to know he hid them on the ceiling??"

You blinked in confusion, "I- Wait, he managed to hide two used diapers as a baby? On the ceiling?" Princess Iron Fan nodded with an amused hum. Your gaze lowered itself onto your own baby. Guess you had to be prepared for even more chaotic moments like that potentially happening. As if the fires (C/N) accidentally created weren't bad enough.

"Well, was there anything else that happened between the two of them?" You were simply curious.

The Demon Bull King suddenly started to eat a lot quicker, to the point where he was trying to eat everything off the plate at the same time, practically inhaling it all to escape this conversation.

His wife laughed, sending her husband a taunting grin, "Of course! Let me tell you all about it~"

DBK then apparently deemed his attempt to escape not fast enough and simply ate the plate as a whole. He then excused himself from the dinner table and speedwalked off to who knows where with long, heavy steps.

You and his wife stared at his quick exit from the scene. While you were absolutely baffled that he just swallowed the entire plate, his wife couldn't hold in her laughter anymore.

And while Princess Iron Fan was telling you more embarrassing stories about her husband's best fails at being a parent, the Demon Bull King found Red Son in the kitchen. He seemed rather annoyed at something, so his father had to ask, "Is something the matter?"

Startled, his son almost dropped the bottle he was holding. Red Son sighed in relief when he realized it was only his father. "No, no. Everything's fine. I fixed up the nursery and wanted to get a newly filled bottle before telling (Y/N) it's ready. Just...", he responded as he glanced back down at the bottle, "I don't think I'm doing this right."

His father crossed his arms, leaning against the tall doorframe. "Do you perhaps need some help, son?"

The shorter bull demon scratched his head at this awkward situation. "...I wouldn't mind some help, actually. My attempts were a little... embarrassing, to say the least."

"It certainly couldn't have been that bad! It's simply about filling the bottle and heating it up."

"That's the problem, father. You see...", he said rather timidly before opening a cabinet and pulling out two more baby bottles that looked burnt. The Demon Bull King repeatedly blinked in shock, not believing what he was seeing. Red Son on the other hand was blushing in embarrassment, placing the bottles onto the counter before hiding his face in his hands, groaning out his frustration to the world.

"I'm a failure of a father...", his muffled voice commented from behind his hands.

To his surprise, his own father laughed. Red Son gave him an offended look, "Are you laughing at my misery?"

The giant bull wiped away a single tear from his eye before taking a deep breath to calm down a little. "Seems like we're not so different after all!" Now it was his son's turn to be stunned into silence. "I honestly thought you would have less problems than me with this!"

"What-" "Haha! Anyway, heh, let me show you how your mother taught me how to heat it up properly..." The bigger demon then approached the counter with the bottles and filled the clean one that wasn't burnt with milk from the carton. "I'm guessing you were struggling with the heating process, yes?" Red Son awkwardly nodded at his father's observations. "And I'm guessing you tried heating it up with your own fire." Again, his son nodded.

"You're not supposed to heat it up yourself. We have a microwave for a reason", Demon Bull King added with an amused smirk. "Your own flames won't be able to safely keep the bottle intact while increasing the temperature at a consistent rate. Here-" He then placed the bottle in the microwave, closing its door before setting the timer and starting it up. The demon shrugged, "Now you wait. It's as simple as that."

Red Son looked at him dumbfounded before his frustration seemed to take over again. "Why the fuck didn't I think of that?? UGH! I'M SO STUPID! THIS IS SO STUPID!" His hair started to flare up at his rage as he clenched his fists.

"Do you truly believe having a child with your wife is stupid?"

His father's question brought him back down again. Calming him, but also catching him a little off-guard. "W- What? No... No, of course not! I love my child!"

Demon Bull King huffed with a smile, "Well, then you need to learn and adapt to your child's needs to raise him well. It might be annoying keeping up with it all, but it will help his life improve a lot." He followed up on his words by picking up one of the burnt bottles, inspecting it. "Don't forget, you agreed on having a child with (Y/N). And as part of that agreement, your child is your responsibility too." His eyes then glanced at the shorter demon's surprised expression. Red Son did not consider that his father could give him advice just like his mother.

His thoughts were cut off when the microwave suddenly beeped, indicating that the bottle was now heated. He opened the door and to no one's surprise, the bottle was still fully intact and the milk was now warm. And despite the heat it held within, he had no problem grasping the bottle with his bare hand and closing the microwave once more. He then gave his father a very small bow with his head, "Thank you for your help, father."

The Demon Bull King chuckled, lightly patting his son on his head, "You better move along now and tell your wife about the nursery. Pretty sure she wants to drop off the baby back in the crib aga-"

K A B O O M

Both demons froze in shock, startled at the sudden explosion. Thinking they were under attack, they quickly made their way back to their wives in a hurry. Until they heard your distressed, but also oddly calm voice coming from the dining hall.

"Um- I- I didn't know he could do that! I'm so sorry!"

"It's all good, dear- We, uh, can just fix it right back up! Don't worry about it!" Princess Iron Fan responded, sounding quite concerned about the situation.

Both men entered the dining hall and watched as there was now a giant hole in the wall. Its borders as well as part of the debris were engulfed by flames. You and PIF didn't seem harmed, just extremely shocked at what you two just witnessed. Meanwhile little (C/N) was giggling again, with the same giggle from the time he set the crib on fire in front of his grandpa.

"...Are you sure I'm not a failure of a father?" Red Son asked rhetorically, his hands gesturing towards the scene with an expression that could only be read as 'Bruh'. Demon Bully King couldn't help but stare at the giant hole in the wall as a confused Bull Clone walked by on the other side.

Turns out your child could not only sneeze fire, but also create a stronger version of it that acts like a fiery bullet explosion. 'Huh, parenthood turns out be more and more fun with each day', you thought somewhat sarcastically, suddenly becoming more tired by the second as you dropped off your adrenaline. Your husband ended up helping you feed the bottle to the baby since he noticed how much more tired you looked.

In the meantime, Princess Iron Fan told both bull demons about what happened and how you and Red Son should be careful with your child's newfound abilities. The fact that he already possessed such powers within the first month was concerning.

It didn't take long for MK's gang to get permission to visit once your baby was properly settled into your home. The Demon Bull Family was a little bit wary about the gang's visits at first, but they quickly got used to their presence. Mainly because they weren't usually bothering the two of them in the first place. They were rather out to bother you, your husband and your little flame.

You never even met your husband's friends before their visits, so you were glad they all were kind and seemed to be enamored by your child. Red Son made sure to tell them beforehand about the potential fire sneezes that can happen. He also gave them other general warnings of abilities you two picked up on while observing the little one.

But with that being said, the gang had a lot of fun interacting with the kid. And it was quite surprising to see him not freaking out over all the attention he was being given. Well, for the most part... He did cry during their first visit due to MK and Mei's constant screaming. However, after telling them to be quiet around the baby, things seemed to be a lot more at peace with them.

Tang was extremely curious about the child's early powers while Pigsy was seen smiling a lot more around the baby. Sandy usually brought gifts with each visit, especially non-flammable, or at least highly fire resistant toys for the baby.

And Wukong was... on edge. At first, at least.

Of course he congratulated you two and also found the baby adorable. But after you told him about the chaotic incidents the child has caused... He was a bit cautious. Not for his safety, but for your and the gang's safety... Also the universe's, but Red Son and DBK already told him about how your child does not seem to possess the same type of power as the Samadhi Fire. At least that bit of information made the Monkey King loosen up enough to enjoy his stay around the child more.

In general, things were getting a lot more interesting for your family. Especially because Red Son suggested having another child in the future once you got your current child's powers under control.

Because apparently one fire-sneezing baby is not enough.

> Masterlist <

[cynicalrosebud]

K9 Hybrid AU: Worldbuilding

Introduction to K9 Hybrids:

K9 hybrids are advanced beings created through genetic engineering, combining human and canine traits to produce highly specialized operatives. They are used in various high-stakes military and law enforcement scenarios due to their enhanced abilities and training.

General Traits (All Hybrids):

Ears: Upright, pointed, and large like those of a German Shepherd, these ears give the hybrids an alert, intelligent appearance. They twitch at the slightest sound, expressing focus, curiosity, and sometimes emotion depending on the situation.

Other Shared Traits:

Muscle tone: All K9 hybrids would have muscular, agile bodies designed for combat and speed.

Eyes: Sharp, focused eyes, either amber, brown, or even striking blue in some cases.

Tail: Bushy, expressive tails that wag when happy or alert when on high alert, also reminiscent of German Shepherds.

Claws: Hybrids have sharp, long claws that require maintenance. Generally strong enough to kill but delicate enough to conduct daily tasks.

Teeth: reminiscent of the Shepherd, the canines of the hybrid are stronger and more elongated than their human counterparts.

Breed Influences:

Y/n: A hybrid, characterized by agility, intelligence, and skill above her class.

Gaz: A hybrid, exhibiting loyalty and calmness. He has a stocky build with water-resistant fur in a dark brown shade. Amber eyes.

Soap: A hybrid with high energy and problem-solving skills. He has a compact frame and longer, shaggy fur styled in a mohawk. Piercing blue eyes.

Training and Roles:

Training: K9 hybrids undergo rigorous training that combines canine instincts with human tactical skills. They are trained for specialized roles including search and rescue, combat support, and reconnaissance.

Roles: In the field, they perform tasks such as tracking, handling explosives, and engaging in close-quarters combat. Their training is tailored to their individual traits and abilities.

Handlers:

Role: Handlers are human operatives responsible for directing and supporting their hybrid partners. They form strong bonds with their hybrids, relying on them for missions and personal protection.

Examples:

Ghost: A handler known for his tactical expertise and stealth, working closely with his hybrid partner, Soap.

Alex: A handler who specializes in close-quarters combat and field operations, partnered with his hybrid, Y/n.

Price: A seasoned handler with experience in high-risk missions, working alongside his hybrid partner, Gaz.

Society and Integration:

Military and Law Enforcement: K9 hybrids are highly valued in military and law enforcement for their specialized skills and capabilities. They are integrated into elite units and teams.

Public Perception: While hybrids are respected for their abilities, they also face challenges related to prejudice and discrimination. Efforts are ongoing to ensure their fair treatment and recognition.

Physical and Biological Features of Military K9 Hybrids

1. Physical Features:

1.1. General Appearance:

Description: Military K9 hybrids possess a robust and athletic build tailored for rigorous military tasks. Their physique is strong and agile, combining the endurance of canines with the physical attributes of humans.

Size: They vary in size based on the breeds used for hybridization, typically ranging from medium to large.

1.2. Fur:

Description: Their fur (what we refer to as hair when on a human head) is designed to be both functional and durable, suitable for various environmental conditions. They usually have short to medium-length fur that is dense or wiry, offering protection against the elements while remaining manageable.

Colors: Fur colors can include black, tan, brown, and gray.

1.3. Ears:

Description: All military K9 hybrids have German Shepherd-like ears—erect, pointed, and highly expressive. These ears enhance their auditory abilities and contribute to their keen sense of hearing.

Functionality: The mobility of their ears aids in directional hearing and effective communication.

1.4. Tail:

Description: Their tails are long and expressive, contributing to balance and communication. The tail is used to signal various emotions and intentions.

Functionality: The tail's movement helps convey feelings from excitement to alertness.

1.5. Eyes:

Description: K9 hybrids have large, expressive eyes that reflect their intelligence and sensitivity. Eye colors range from brown to amber, and their vision is adapted for both day and night operations.

Functionality: Enhanced visual acuity supports tracking, surveillance, and various field activities.

1.6. Body Structure:

Description: They possess a lean yet strong muscular structure designed for agility and endurance. Their body is optimized for physical tasks such as running, climbing, and other demanding activities.

Functionality: This structure supports their ability to perform effectively in diverse environments.

2. Biological Features:

2.1. Enhanced Senses:

Description: K9 hybrids have heightened sensory capabilities, including acute hearing, superior olfaction, and enhanced night vision. These traits are inherited from their canine genetics.

Functionality: These enhanced senses are crucial for detecting threats, tracking scents, and conducting surveillance.

2.2. Adaptations for Performance:

Description: Their biological systems are adapted to support high physical performance, including efficient oxygen usage, excellent muscle endurance, and a high metabolism.

Functionality: These adaptations enable sustained activity and quick recovery from exertion.

2.3. Specialized Training Response:

Description: Hybrids have an inherent ability to respond to training commands and signals, reflecting their combined genetic heritage. They are driven to learn and perform specific tasks.

Functionality: Their responsiveness makes them versatile and effective in various military roles.

2.4. Health and Recovery:

Description: Hybrids are susceptible to certain health issues common to both canines and humans. Regular medical care and monitoring are essential to manage these risks.

Functionality: Ongoing health checks and specialized care are necessary for their well-being and operational readiness.

2.5. Reproductive Features:

Description: The reproductive systems of hybrids are compatible with both human and canine genetics, allowing for the continuation of hybrid traits in future generations.

Functionality: Breeding programs focus on maintaining desired traits while ensuring the health and viability of the hybrids.

2.6. Communication:

Description: K9 hybrids use a combination of vocalizations, body language, and expressions to communicate. Their vocalizations can range from barks and growls to more nuanced sounds, while body language includes tail movements and ear positions.

Functionality: Effective communication with handlers and other hybrids is crucial for coordinated operations and emotional bonding.

These features ensure that military K9 hybrids are well-equipped for their roles, blending the best characteristics of both canines and humans to excel in demanding military environments.

K9 Hybrid Personalities and Needs

1. Personality Traits:

1.1. Loyal and Obedient:

Description: K9 hybrids are known for their strong sense of loyalty and obedience to their handlers. They form deep bonds with their human partners, often displaying unwavering dedication and trust.

Needs: Regular interaction and bonding time with handlers are crucial. They thrive in environments where they feel valued and trusted.

1.2. Intelligent and Adaptive:

Description: Hybrids possess high intelligence and adaptability, enabling them to learn quickly and handle complex tasks. They are often used in specialized roles that require problem-solving skills.

Needs: Mental stimulation through training exercises, problem-solving activities, and engaging tasks are essential to keep them sharp and satisfied.

1.3. Energetic and Driven:

Description: K9 hybrids have high energy levels and a strong drive to perform tasks. This trait is particularly evident in roles that require physical exertion and agility.

Needs: Regular physical exercise and opportunities to channel their energy are crucial. They benefit from vigorous activities and training sessions that keep them active and engaged.

1.4. Sensitive and Observant:

Description: Hybrids are often sensitive to their environment and can pick up on subtle changes or signals. This sensitivity makes them excellent at detecting threats or changes in their surroundings.

Needs: They need a stable and secure environment where they can feel safe and confident. Consistent routines and positive reinforcement help maintain their emotional well-being.

1.5. Playful and Curious:

Description: Despite their serious roles, many hybrids have a playful and curious side. They enjoy exploring and playing, which helps balance their work and downtime.

Needs: Opportunities for play and exploration are important for their overall happiness. Enrichment activities and toys that stimulate their curiosity can help keep them content.

2. Physical and Emotional Needs:

2.1. Regular Exercise:

Description: Hybrids require regular physical activity to maintain their health and energy levels. Exercise helps them stay fit and manage their high energy.

Examples: Daily runs, obstacle courses, and training drills that challenge their physical abilities.

2.2. Mental Stimulation:

Description: Engaging in tasks that challenge their intelligence and problem-solving skills is vital. Mental stimulation helps prevent boredom and keeps them sharp.

Examples: Puzzle toys, complex training exercises, and tasks that require critical thinking.

2.3. Social Interaction:

Description: Positive interactions with handlers and other hybrids are essential for their social development and emotional health. They thrive in environments where they feel connected and valued.

Examples: Bonding sessions with handlers, group training activities, and socialization with other hybrids.

2.4. Proper Nutrition:

Description: A balanced diet tailored to their specific needs supports their overall health and performance. Nutrition is crucial for maintaining their energy levels and physical condition.

Examples: High-quality, specially formulated food that meets their dietary requirements.

2.5. Health Care:

Description: Regular medical check-ups and prompt attention to any health issues are necessary to ensure their well-being. Hybrids need access to veterinary care and specialized medical attention when required.

Examples: Routine vaccinations, dental care, and treatment for injuries or illnesses.

2.6. Rest and Recovery:

Description: Adequate rest and recovery time are essential for maintaining their physical and mental health. Hybrids need periods of downtime to recuperate from training and missions.

Examples: Comfortable resting areas, relaxation time, and time off from intensive activities.

2.7. Safe and Secure Environment:

Description: A secure environment where hybrids feel safe and protected contributes to their emotional well-being. They need to be in environments where they can trust their surroundings.

Examples: Secure kennels, safe training areas, and stable living conditions.

Understanding and addressing these personalities and needs ensure that K9 hybrids remain effective, healthy, and content in their roles. Proper care and attention to their unique traits are essential for their overall well-being and performance.

[maxwell-grant]

Any thoughts on She-Hulk?

I like her a lot. I don't really like most of her solo comics that I've read (I think some of her most celebrated runs have aged abysmally), but I like her as a character enough that this doesn't sour me on her and there are several that I've enjoyed. One of those characters that I'm just really glad exists and you can get a lot out of in supporting roles, she adds a really unique, wonderful texture to the world. I think it's great that her baseline is dealing with the flipside of the Hulk's problems: she can keep her life and strength and rage under control and have a good public image and non-adversarial relationships with superhero society, which means she has things to fight for much more complicated than survival and supervillains out to get her.

She was once a mousy disrespected nerd too, except her freak accident alter-ego turned her into a charismatic hot jade goddess who can hold a steady job and crack zingers for the camera while saving the world and is thus expected to do all of those things and more at once, all of which means she has many more things to juggle and lose than the Hulk has at any given moment. He deals with big huge singular problems while she deals with clusters of irritating little problems that accumulate to break her down. Much like Wonder Woman, she is burdened with standards of perfection that do not exist for her male contemporaries, except in her case, she has to overcompensate not just to overcome barriers of misogny, but also being a good, ethical working person in a world of dysfunctional assholes and self-destructive monsters, not helped by her proximity to the biggest of them all.

She has responsabilities and bosses and ethical/social dilemmas to navigate as a superhero, as a woman and as a lawyer that she can't solve with smashing them into leaving her alone or with separating her life under different personas. She has to deal with Frog-Men and continuity gods and interpersonal superhero drama and cases that no laws have even been written for and all these bullshit Seinfeld problems, because unlike Deadpool and other comedic superhero characters she actually has adult responsabilities to contend with. And she does, and she makes time to party and have fun and go out with friends and training with fellow bruisers and running maintenance errands on the world whether it's to help the Fantastic Four out of a jam or deal with a college friend's divorce hearing. I do think she has a very versatile gimmick as a superhero lawyer (not the same as a superhero who is a lawyer) who gets stuck with the shit job of dealing with the kinds of messes that other characters get to resolve off screen, that she has to deal with all kinds of embarassing and weird things and the less-glorious aspects of superhero life. There is a lot that you can get away with in She-Hulk comics because Jen is a fun character to have dealing with problems.

I do think she's kinda in a difficult tight rope act as a character, because her thing involves dealing with a lot of superhero things that break immersion if you poke at them too closely, but she can't really do anything to affect or attack them (because she's an integral supporting character in the larger Marvel Universe and one of the few Marvel superheroes who isn't some kind of dysfunctional asshole) or be a full-on parody character, she can't sit in the same liminal joke space Deadpool and Squirrel Girl thrive in, and her set-up also makes it hard to do anything too dramatic or dark or weird with her, anything that's too "Hulk" feels out of place and misguided. She's a permanent B-lister that spends her time frustrated by the D/Z-listers that flock around her and hanging around the A-listers that generally have more interesting things to do.

Of course Jen does tag along on those things and those Avengers trips to save the world, but those are never really about her or involving her in a fashion that needs her and not some other person who can punch good. She is always going to be kind of a niche character which sorta limits her from being as big as she could otherwise be. But I think her niche is a really good one and one that needs to be around and adds a lot to the larger Marvel universe, and Jen is such a fun character that it's always great to see her show up in something. Big fan.

Sucks that she's one of the worst characters in Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 though and that she never got to destroy Deadpool in MvC4 because there was no such thing, but I have seen more people play as her recently and even pull some wins with her even outside ratio tournaments, and at least they ended the series on a high note with Ultimate and never did anything ever again ever.

[batboyblog]

The Biden administration on Wednesday issued one of the most significant climate regulations in the nation’s history, a rule designed to ensure that the majority of new passenger cars and light trucks sold in the United States are all-electric or hybrids by 2032.

Cars and other forms of transportation are, together, the largest single source of carbon emissions generated by the United States, pollution that is driving climate change and that helped to make 2023 the hottest year in recorded history. Electric vehicles are central to President Biden’s strategy to confront global warming, which calls for cutting the nation’s emissions in half by the end of this decade. But E.V.s have also become politicized and are becoming an issue in the 2024 presidential campaign.

“Three years ago, I set an ambitious target: that half of all new cars and trucks sold in 2030 would be zero-emission,” said Mr. Biden in a statement. “Together, we’ve made historic progress. Hundreds of new expanded factories across the country. Hundreds of billions in private investment and thousands of good-paying union jobs. And we’ll meet my goal for 2030 and race forward in the years ahead.”

The rule increasingly limits the amount of pollution allowed from tailpipes over time so that, by 2032, more than half the new cars sold in the United States would most likely be zero-emissions vehicles in order for carmakers to meet the standards.

That would avoid more than seven billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions over the next 30 years, according to the E.P.A. That’s the equivalent of removing a year’s worth of all the greenhouse gases generated by the United States, the country that has historically pumped the most carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The regulation would provide nearly $100 billion in annual net benefits to society, according to the agency, including $13 billion of annual public health benefits thanks to improved air quality.

The standards would also save the average American driver about $6,000 in reduced fuel and maintenance over the life of a vehicle, the E.P.A. estimated.

The auto emissions rule is the most impactful of four major climate regulations from the Biden administration, including restrictions on emissions from power plants, trucks and methane leaks from oil and gas wells. The rules come on top of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, the biggest climate law in the nation’s history, which is providing at least $370 billion in federal incentives to support clean energy, including tax credits to buyers of electric vehicles.

The policies are intended to help the country meet Mr. Biden’s target of cutting U.S. greenhouse emissions in half by 2030 and eliminating them by 2050. Climate scientists say all major economies must do the same if the world is to avert the most deadly and costly effects of climate change.

“These standards form what we see as a historic climate grand slam for the Biden administration,” said Manish Bapna, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council Action Fund, a political action committee that aims to advance environmental causes.

Mr. Bapna’s group has calculated that the four regulations, combined with the Inflation Reduction Act, would reduce the nation’s greenhouse emissions 42 percent by 2030, getting the country most of the way to Mr. Biden’s 2030 target.

Get in Losers we're going to save the planet.

[ranijaisichaal]

Indians on tumblr!!!!! I just found out something and i want to know yall's thoughts. I need to know if I'm the only one thinking about this, and im NOT going to mention this to my family. Help a girl out pls lovelies <333

So at the dinner table today, my dad said the government was making it mandatory to register live-in relationships now, and that not registering your relationship could result in a 6-month jail penalty or something. And at first I was like huh - they're trying to police us again, huh - but then stopped to think, and decided to research instead.

Now, this here is a Times of India article from a few hours ago.✨

In short, the Uttarakhand CM tabled the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) bill in the Uttarakhand assembly this morning. And one part from the 192-page bill is devoted to looking at live-in relationships as a legal entity. The bill was approved on Sunday, and tabled today.

And this made me SO HAPPY, because FINALLY. We're finally making some progress as a society. The Indian law has taken the first step in recognising two people living together without getting married, yet reaping the legal benefits - an unmarried partner will be a legal entity, legally counting as a loved one (provided they are over 21). Moreover, a couple that's living together but not married can legally have kids, and not face any discrimination in the eyes of the law. And not only that, but in case of a break-up (which also needs to be procedurally filed with the authorities), the woman is entitled to maintenance. I quote from the article:

CM Dhami said, “It is a historic moment for each one of us. Let us all have a lengthy and healthy discussion to bring uniformity in the society.”

This is wonderful! It's such a progressive measure.

But what caught my eye was the final paragraph from the article.

Leader of opposition Yashpal Arya said, "We fail to understand the logic behind the urgency being shown by the BJP government. They expect us to read such a lengthy document speedily and start the discussion. It looks like the government is trying to hide something."

At first that seemed like a classic political counterattack, but it got me thinking. Why indeed the urgency?

And then I realised - what if - what if - it is now legalised for queer couples in Uttarakhand to register live-on relationships and basically reap all the benefits of a legally recognised marriage? They haven't explicitly mentioned the queer community anywhere, but it's possible, right? We know the Supreme Court refused to give marriage rights to non-heterosexual couples last year (see here); but if this is presented as an option to queer couples instead, they can secure all the rights of a traditional marriage with a different kind of registration? It is, after all, not illegal to get into long-term homosexual relationships. I know it isn't perfect, but if they allow homosexual live-in relationships, then it's at least a step in the right direction?

I'm not very well-versed with this, so I'm turning to the only relatively safe space I can think of - desis on tumblr. Is it possible that this could happen, that queer relationship recognition could be an ulterior agenda? Is it really as progressive as I think it is? I'm curious, and so hopeful! Any and all discussion is welcome - what do y'all think?🫶

P.S. let me know if there are any more tags I should add for this to reach more people!

[catierambles]

Blood Moon Ch.28

Annalisa didn’t look at him as he was shoved down into the chair in front of her in the backroom of Tell-Tale Heart. The club was closed for “maintenance”.

“Where was he?” She asked.

“He managed to get asylum from Van Heusen.” Ethan said, walking back and forth behind him, his arms folded over his chest. “But we told Gunther what he tried to do and the coven handed him over no fuss. He says congrats on the upcoming wedding, by the way.”

“Remind me to send him an invitation.”

“How many is that now, Annie?” Sy asked from his seat on a table against the wall. The entire coven was there, sitting or standing around the room.

“We’re going to need a bigger venue.” She said.

“Why don’t you have it at the ranch?” Jack suggested. “Got the room for it.” Sy’s family wanted to be there as well, even after she told them what she had planned for Eugene.

“The reception would be nice there.” She agreed, and turned her attention back to Eugene who was in the chair in front of her, hands tied behind his back. “Eugene.”

“Annalisa, please.” He said, “I never meant—”

“Yes, you did.” Sy said, interrupting him. “She wasn’t supposed’ta be there, remember?”

“You killed Markus.” Annalisa said.

“How long have we been together, Annie? You would believe his word over mine? Markus was my friend, I would never hurt him or you. I love you.”

“No, you don’t.” She said, “Or else you wouldn’t have hurt Sy like you had. You know that if a vampires’ Tovaras dies, so do they. You know that.”

“He’s not your Tovaras, he can’t be your Tovaras.”

“And you would know that better than I?” She asked but he was silent. “At first I wondered why. Why would you kill Markus. Why would you attempt to kill me, albeit indirectly. You were Markus’s trusted friend, his confidant. Why would you kill him?”

“I didn’t. Annie, what happened was tragic, but I—”

“Greed.” She said, “When Markus met you, you were some low merchant, barely getting by. Then he introduced you to high society, better contacts, buyers, sellers, and you flourished. Your little operation grew into an empire because of the connections he gave you, but you still wanted more. You wanted what he had. You were wealthy, yes, but you weren’t one of them. They knew it, you knew it. Maybe if you had what Markus had, they would see you as an equal. Then something happened. He met me. This maid in his estate who didn’t bow her head, who spoke her mind, who met his gaze. Then we were married and you knew that if Markus died, I would get everything. Such was the law at the time. It didn’t matter what document you forged, his widow would receive it all.

“I think you were planning his death even then, but you needed to secure his wife. So you attempted to woo her before the ink was even dry on their marriage certificate. You framed it as wanting to get to know your friends’ new bride better, especially since you knew he Turned her on their wedding night. But I was in love with Markus, and I would never betray him. Then one night, you had Markus killed. I wasn’t supposed to be there, I was supposed to be at the opera with you, but Markus and I had just celebrated our anniversary and he wanted me to stay home. So I did. And I watched my husband die. I watched blood stream out of his mouth and nose from the holy water the Hunter had forced down his throat liquifying his insides.”

“Jesus.” Pete whispered but she paid him no attention.

“Once Markus was dead you wasted little time in seducing me. I was traumatized, vulnerable, and you were there for me. A shoulder to cry on, a rock I could use to hold myself steady. But you made a mistake, you held on too tightly, tried to control me too much. Markus loved me because I wouldn’t allow myself to be controlled by anyone, he loved my strength and independence. So I left you, but I kept you around because you were Markus’ friend and he trusted you. True to law, I got everything when Markus died, all his land, his wealth, his businesses, everything. You helped me with those, too, in the beginning. I was a farmers’ daughter and former maid, what did I know about running anything? Then one day I realized I didn’t need your help anymore, but still I kept you by my side because you were Markus’ friend and he trusted you.”

“Annie—”

“I’m not finished.” She said, cutting him off. “You watched as I became more and more powerful, as I surpassed Markus in almost everything. I was in control of my own coven, numerous businesses and subsidiaries. I was respected and feared and you wanted that. You wanted what I had, just like you wanted what he had. You knew the others saw you as lesser than. The second-fiddle, the “try-hard”. The imposter, the wannabe, and you hated that. You also knew that if I died, as my second-in-command, you would get everything. That’s how covens work. So you watched, and you waited, until I got to a place where you figured I was ripe for slaughter. But then. Something. Happened. I met Sy. I met my Tovaras. You should have been happy for me, but you just saw an opportunity. Get rid of me, him, and line your pockets all in one move. Because if he left me and then I died because he did, no one would question it. He just had an accident. Somewhere. But again, you screwed up. You didn’t do your research. You made assumptions and your ruse was seen through pretty damn quickly.”

“Read the note.” Sy said, “Fucker. I would never do that to her.”

“Whoever killed him would walk free. That was the order you gave to Damascos, but I found him before it could be carried out. Now we’re current. Anything to say for yourself?”

“Annalisa, please.” Eugene said, “I never—I care for you too much to ever hurt you like that. We’ve been together for centuries, you’ve been with him for less than a year. Please, Annie, everything you think I did, I didn’t do it. I promise you, Little Raven, you have to believe that I would never—could never hurt you like that.”

“Little Raven?” Sy asked.

“Markus had ravens he cared for. I took to them, and them to me. He loved seeing me with them so it was his pet name for me. His Little Raven.” Annalisa said.

“Eugene.” Sy said, “Did you know when someone lies, no matter how good they are at it, how long they been doin’ it, they still release adrenaline? Smells like piss. Ethan, he piss himself at all?”

“Nope.” Ethan said.

“Thought so.” He said and hopped down with a grimace. His wounds were mostly healed, but he was still dealing with some lingering pain. “You lyin’ and you lyin’ hard, boy.”

“Is that what that smell is?” Ethan asked and Sy nodded. “Learn something knew every day.”

“You believe these dogs over me?” Eugene asked.

“Damascos kept detailed records, Eugene.” Annalisa said, “Every transaction, every wolf delivered, ever payout given. Even if I believed you didn’t do what you had to Markus, you still drugged Sy and delivered him, along with many others behind my back, to the fighting pits to die. For money. That alone would warrant punishment.”

“Annie—”

“Do you remember what I told you I would do if you didn’t leave him alone?” Annalisa asked and went to a small table set off to the side, untying the leather roll and opening it, various implements tucked into pockets inside. “There are pressure points above our fangs that make them extend.” Opening her mouth to show them, she pressed right above her own canines and her fangs slid down, sliding back up when her hand fell away. “Hold him.”

“Annie!” He exclaimed, struggling against his bonds, and Ethan grabbed him in a vice grip, holding his head still. “Annie, please! Please don’t!” Ethan forced his mouth open as she approached him with the tool and his screams rang through the room, no one moving or making a sound. She backed away from him, the screaming cutting off, blood staining his lips and chin and she closed her hand around the fangs in her palm.

“Dispose of him. I don’t care how.” Annalisa said evenly and Ethan pulled him out of the chair, dragging him from the room.

[fierycavalier]

Intro to Scouting for Nancy Drew Fans

i love to see Ace's Eagle Scout status come up in fics. Although it was almost a throw-away line, I think it informs Ace's character and fleshes out his backstory well, beyond just knowing knots and navigating the woods. But I see a lot of awkward phrasing, and I see a lot of missed opportunities to bring it up, and it got me wondering if a little primer would be helpful.

Things Ace could say: "I learned this in Boy Scouts." "My troop leader took us out here all the time." "This trail didn't go this way back when I was in Scouts." "Don't worry, they love me here--my eagle project was to clean up this beach." "Don't talk to me about Jared Spriggs-- I'll never forgive him for what he did to my derby car when I was 14."

Eagle Scout is a rank and an honor that he achieved, not a program he was in. The program is Boy Scouts of America (BSA). People familiar with the program will just say Boy Scouts or Scouts. After 100 years of only allowing boys to participate, the program became co-ed in 2019, so it's now called Scouts BSA, not Boy Scouts. Ace would have grown up in the program before then since he turned 18 in 2016.

If Ace started in scouting before he was 11, he would have been in Cub Scouts. At 11, he could move up to the scouting troop. There are ranks in scouting, tied to the number of merit badges you've earned. Eagle Scout is the top rank and must be achieved before the age of 18. It involves a certain number of merit badges, hours of volunteer work, and a main Eagle Scout Service Project that they must plan and execute themselves (with assistance from scout leaders and parents).

I think it highly likely that the Captain was a troop leader or otherwise involved in scouting, especially before his accident. I can see his mom stepping in as well- if I remember right, women could be pack leaders even before 2016.

Although most people work toward Eagle as 16-17 year olds, it's possible to achieve it earlier, especially if you're smart and committed like Ace. So his pot-smoking days could come after he earned Eagle and lost interest in Scouts, or they could coexist. Your call.

Although people assume scouting is about wilderness preparedness, the program's goal is to create well-rounded, responsible citizens. Ace would have the Oath and Law memorized.

Scout Oath

On my honor I will do my best

To do my duty to God and my country

and to obey the Scout Law;

To help other people at all times;

To keep myself physically strong,

mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Law

A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, Reverent

As you can guess, being Jewish might have been tricky for Ace in a program that's culturally Christian as many 20th century American institutions are. That'd also depend on what his troop was like--was there one troop for the whole town, or maybe his synagogue hosted a troop?

There's a Sea Scouts program. Where I'm from is landlocked so I don't know anything about it, but Horseshoe Bay or a nearby bigger town would definitely have Sea Scouting!

Lastly, here are the current Merit Badge categories: it covers a lot more than knots! Ace often gets into hacking in pre-series fics by hanging out at the library with his mom after school. But what if he was introduced to programming in Scouts? And I'm sure Florence helped him complete many merit badges.

Automotive Maintenance

Backpacking

Bird Study

Camping

Canoeing

Chemistry

Coin Collecting

Cooking

Digital Technology

Engineering

Fire Safety

First Aid

Fly-Fishing

Golf

Indian Lore

Insect Study

Journalism

Law

Mining in Society

Nuclear Science

Photography

Plant Science

Programming

Radio

Safety

Scouting Heritage

Skating (I know we never see him on a skateboard but come on)

Surveying

Sustainability

Swimming (the way Ace is built heavier in top looks like a competitive swimming shape in my experience!)