#adapt evolve overcome

[sa-jel]

I made a mistake but didn't have any glue so i used some gum to paste the paper

[undead-potatoes]

Shoutout to Emmy for being the funniest person on YouTube right now

[starseedsrise]

Addiction is dissatisfaction.

You are so unhappy with your normal state of being that you're constantly seeking for something 'greater'.

This is a fools game. Grass is greener on steroids.

Your corrupted reward system tricks you into being in a perpetual state of want.

It's a decay cycle.

Your life appears mundane so you lean on something that offers cheap, accessible pleasure.

This deludes you for a brief moment & distorts your perception.

You think life is better now because of the dopamine rush.

Over time, you use that to cope with all things discomfort. Thoughts, situations, emotions. Any negative state makes you want to escape.

This is where the decay cycle begins.

Your body deteriorates because of the addiction, your brain deteriorates because of the addiction, your life deteriorates because of the addiction..

& all this time it tricks your brain into changing your perception on reality. You think everything is all plush and content.

Any time you are offered a brief moment of clarity and get a peak beyond the veil.. the minute you start to realize your life is going to shit, it creates more stress, negative emotions in you. You run back to get more pleasure and willingly coat your eyes with a thick paint of bullshit and ignorance

This cycle repeats itself over and over until there's nothing left to decay.

Breaking this illusion of pleasure is paramount to you breaking the cycle.

You must recognize reality for what it is.

- @SpartanPsyche

[flovey-dovey]

Boy howdy I sure do wish videos worked for me tumblr is being particularly hellsite-y lately (the last several months) :)

[trickycactus]

all of those 'uwa!! i was a boy and woke up as a girl!!' media types never consider how absolutely destroyed these men would be by UTIs after a lifetime of barely there dick maintenance tbh

[thermesiini]

i’m going to do some crazy things to 20 pounds of frozen chicken tomorrow

[laifromthecosmos]

Mercury AtmaKaraka: Souls in search of Dialogue and Wisdom

“Mercury has the best looks, is witty, likes jokes and laughter, and is erudite. He assumes the nature and constitution of the planets with which he is associated” Parashari 3.26

In Vedic astrology, the concept of AtmaKaraka is one of the most profound and revealing in the natal chart. The atmaKaraka, also known as the “soul indicator”, is the planet that bears the greatest responsibility for the individual’s spiritual journey. It represents the greatest challenges, lessons and the path that the soul must take in this life to achieve growth and fulfillment. The planet with the highest degree in any sign becomes the AtmaKaraka, “the significator of self” or “self-indicator”. This, as the lord of the Ascendant, can become the most powerful planet in your chart. It is the most important planet to consider when judging an individual's spiritual nature, particularly in relation to its position in the ninth harmonic chart (navamsha). He provides us with a key to the aspirations of the soul. We often consider its position, such as the Ascendant, and read the chart indications accordingly.

This planet not only guides the purpose of life, but also indicates internal obstacles that a person needs to overcome to find their true identity. The AtmaKaraka position shows how we deal with our weaknesses, how we develop spiritually and where we should invest energy to evolve. The Atmakaraka carries the most important karmic lessons for this incarnation, becoming a key to understanding destiny and the soul's inner motivations. Although there are many other important points in the birth chart, the Atma is special because it is a direct representation of the qualities that our soul has already mastered in past lives and those that still need to be worked on. Depending on which planet occupies this position, the nature of these lessons varies profoundly. AK influences how we approach challenges in different areas of life, right down to our spiritual worldview.

Mercury is the greatest messenger of the gods. It is the planet that represents speech, communication and commerce at all levels. In its lowest function it organizes and articulates material sources. In its highest function it connects us with our internal capacity: the power of the mind.

As Jupiter generally represents the higher or abstract mind, Mercury indicates the lower or concrete mind, the intellect or informational mind. However, Mercury is not limited to this. It also shows the abstract mind in its discriminatory capacity and connects us with the Divine World, or the world of truth. Mercury rules writing, education, calculations, thoughts. It is the planets that move faster and so this indicates quick understanding, ease and plasticity in expression. Mercury is quick to correlate ideas and quick to exchange information or things of value. It shows the intellectual power and degree of mental development in life.

When Mercury assumes the role of AtmaKaraka, the soul's journey is especially marked by the power of intellect, communication and learning. Mercury is a planet of duality and adaptability. It governs the mind, speech, logic and the ability to absorb knowledge. For those with Mercury as AK, life lessons revolve around the way they express themselves, how they interact in the world through words and ideas, and how they develop a deeper understanding of the realities that surround them.

Individuals with Mercury like AtmaKaraka are on a mission to master the power of the mind and communication. For them, words are more than simple tools of expression: they are portals of transformation. There is a strong desire to learn and share knowledge, and their lives often revolve around intellectual processes, teaching, writing or any form of information exchange. However, the challenge is not just to acquire wisdom, but to use it ethically, clearly and sufficiently. Mercury as AK can also indicate the need to find balance between reason and emotion. Although these individuals may be inclined to rely on their sharp minds, there is an important lesson about integrating feelings with logic. They may face dilemmas related to the way they communicate, they may need to learn to be more patient, clear or flexible in their interactions. There is also an inclination to avoid hasty decisions, as Mercury can be quick to jump to conclusions without considering all the variables. This karmic path demands that natives develop a flexible mind, which welcomes different perspectives and is always open to evolving their thinking. Thus, spiritual growth for those with Mercury like AtmaKaraka does not just lie in accumulating information, but in transforming it into profound wisdom that can be shared with the world.

Image description: Emma Watson at the launch of the HeforShe campaign at the ONU in which she says: "the more I talk about feminism, the more I come across the reality of fighting for women's rights." The (brazilian) singer Sandy Leah, when she was honored at PUC (Pontifical Catholic University) said: "if I can give some advice, I would say: stay curious, be present in the here and now, question, participate, get involved and, above all, never underestimate the power of education to change the world." Emma Watson has a degree in English Literature and Sandy also has a degree in Literature. Both pursued academic degrees that require an advanced understanding of the language. This reflects a strong alignment with the Mercurian nature that values ​​the ability to analyze and convey ideas with clarity and depth. Angelina Jolie promotes a variety of causes, including environmental conservation, education and women's rights, and is best known for her advocacy on behalf of refugees. She advocates for refugees in several large-scale crises. Djamila Ribeiro (brazilian philosopher) in her speech at the ONU: "education plays a fundamental role in creating opportunities and expanding our worldview. Education has the power to transform people and institutions." People with Mercury atmakaraka tend to have a strong desire to share information, which makes them adept at engaging in debates, social discourses and conveying messages to the public.

Mercury, when it is at its highest degree, breaks the barrier and reveals humanity and human needs. Individuals have compassion and equity based not so much on feeling, but on objectivity and practicality. Mercury may value public opinion more than the truth, and becomes dependent and defensive of any involvement. He is the mind that has no real nature, but reflects everything that it considers to be reality.

Mercury is a childish planet and is considered the son of the Moon. He is not the mind that perceives, but can organize ideas. Mercury is the rational mind, the most articulate part of the subconscious (the Moon). In Sanskrit, Mercury is Budha, which means intelligence and is related to Buddhi, the faculty of determination by which we discern the real from the unreal (fully awakening, one becomes enlightened, a Budha). When this faculty judges reality not by appearances, but by discerning the transitory from the eternal, then it functions correctly and the superior power of Mercury is revealed. When we discriminate between names and shapes, we become trapped in the apparent reality of the external world. In the highest sense, Mercury is that faculty of truth and determination that discriminates the real from the unreal, the pure from the impure, truth from illusion. This is the most precise and perfect functioning of the mind. In this higher activity (atmakaraka), Mercury, the mind, is Vishnu, the pervasive consciousness who is also the divine son, the guiding cosmic intelligence, and the source of the great teachers.

[sensualnoiree]

Aries:

Key Themes: New Beginnings, Initiative & Action, Cardinal Fire Sign, Leadership, Vibrancy & Vitality, Boldness & Courage, Sudden Bursts of Power, Spontaneity, Quick Decision Making, Spark of Inspiration, Pioneering, Risk-Taking, Passion & Enthusiasm, Empowering Energy.

Symbolism & Archetype: Aries embodies the essence of the "pioneer" and "warrior." It signifies the spark of life and the birth of new cycles. The assertive and action-oriented nature of Aries is linked to its role as the first sign of the zodiac, where the journey begins. As a Cardinal Fire sign, Aries initiates action with a fiery zeal, often acting as a trailblazer in any situation.

Esoteric Perspective: The mantra "I come forth, and from the Plane of Mind I rule" encapsulates Aries' journey of self-realization and mastery of will. Aries is where divine ideas are born, and its energy drives the manifestation of the divine will. The "Heart in the Head Lotus" represents the spiritual awakening and higher consciousness that Aries can achieve when aligned with its higher purpose.

Taurus:

Key Themes: Fixed Earth Sign, Venus Ruled, Grounded & Stable, Appreciation for Nature, Enduring, Stubbornness & Reliability, Cultivation of Taste, Value for Quality, Slow & Steady Rhythm, Resistance to Change.

Symbolism & Archetype: Taurus is the "builder" and "preserver," embodying the energy of stability and endurance. As the Fixed Earth sign, Taurus is connected to the physical realm, emphasizing the importance of security, material wealth, and sensual pleasures. The bull symbolizes strength, patience, and a deep connection to the earth.

Esoteric Perspective: The phrase "I SEE, and when the eye is opened, all is illumined" reflects Taurus' journey toward spiritual illumination through the material world. Taurus is associated with desire, but this desire evolves into a drive for spiritual beauty and the synthesis of the divine within the physical form. The "penetrating Light of the Path" signifies Taurus' role in revealing the hidden mysteries of the heart.

Gemini:

Key Themes: Quick Learners, Social & Charming, Mercury Ruled, Communication, Intellect, Curiosity, Versatility, Adaptability, Dynamic & Changing Energy, Love of Learning.

Symbolism & Archetype: Gemini is the "communicator" and "trickster," representing the duality of mind and the flow of information. As a Mutable Air sign, Gemini is associated with the exchange of ideas, quick thinking, and adaptability. The twins symbolize the dual nature of Gemini, constantly exploring both sides of every situation.

Esoteric Perspective: The mantra "I recognize my other self and in the waning of that self I grow and glow" speaks to Gemini's journey of integrating the higher and lower selves. Gemini's energy is about relating and connecting, overcoming the illusion of separation. It is linked to the heart of the Sun, symbolizing the central role of communication and connection in the sustenance of life.

Cancer:

Key Themes: The Crab, Intuitive & Sensitive, Moon Ruled, Emotional Sensitivity, Nurturing & Protective, Strong Attachment to Home & Family, Sentimental & Nostalgic.

Symbolism & Archetype: Cancer is the "nurturer" and "caretaker," embodying the energy of emotional depth and protection. As a Cardinal Water sign, Cancer is associated with the nurturing of life, whether it be through family, home, or emotional bonds. The crab symbolizes protection, retreat, and the cyclical nature of life.

Esoteric Perspective: The phrase "I build a lighted house and therein dwell" reflects Cancer's journey of creating a safe and sacred space for the soul. Cancer is where the light of the soul begins to shine within the form, illuminating the path of life. The sign is associated with the breath of life, signifying the connection between spirit, soul, and form.

Leo:

Key Themes: Fixed Fire Sign, The Sun, Leadership, Radiant Personality, Attention-Seeking, Bold, Creative, Passionate, Loyalty & Stability, Devoted in Relationships, Heart Chakra & Compassion.

Symbolism & Archetype: Leo is the "king" and "hero," representing the power of self-expression and leadership. As a Fixed Fire sign, Leo embodies the energy of creativity, confidence, and vitality. The lion symbolizes strength, nobility, and the desire to shine.

Esoteric Perspective: The mantra "I am That, and That Am I" reflects Leo's journey toward self-realization and spiritual mastery. Leo's energy is about illuminating the self and others, leading with the heart, and achieving self-mastery. The "will-to-rule and to dominate" signifies Leo's potential for self-control and the conditioning of the environment in alignment with the divine plan.

Virgo:

Key Themes: Mutable Earth Sign, Mercury Ruled, Attention to Detail & Discernment, Analytical, Practical, Connection to Digestion & Assimilation, Preparation for Judgment & Equinox, Diligence & Service.

Symbolism & Archetype: Virgo is the "healer" and "analyst," embodying the energy of service, organization, and purification. As a Mutable Earth sign, Virgo is associated with the practical application of knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and the cultivation of order. The goddess Demeter symbolizes the nurturing and harvesting aspects of Virgo.

Esoteric Perspective: The phrase "I Am the Mother and the Child; I God - I Matter, Am" reflects Virgo's journey of integrating the spiritual and material worlds. Virgo's energy is about nurturing the divine potential within the material world, preparing for the revelation of the hidden spiritual reality. The sign is associated with the nurturing force of substance itself.

Libra:

Key Themes: Cardinal Air Sign, Venus Ruled, Balance & Weighing, Harmony & Fairness, Focus on Relationships & Social Harmony, Beauty, Art, & Aesthetics.

Symbolism & Archetype: Libra is the "diplomat" and "judge," embodying the energy of balance, harmony, and fairness. As a Cardinal Air sign, Libra is associated with the weighing of options, the pursuit of justice, and the importance of relationships. The scales symbolize equilibrium, duality, and the quest for fairness.

Esoteric Perspective: The mantra "I choose the way which leads between the two great lines of force" reflects Libra's journey of finding balance between opposing forces. Libra's energy is about achieving harmony between the soul and personality, creating a point of balance where spiritual opportunity arises. The sign is associated with the probationary path, where duality is known and choice is inevitable.

Scorpio:

Key Themes: Fixed Water Sign, Ruled by Mars, Intense, Mysterious, Deep Emotional Connections, Passion & Intensity, Resourceful, Strong Intuition, Power of Self-Transformation.

Symbolism & Archetype: Scorpio is the "transformer" and "warrior," embodying the energy of deep emotional intensity and the power of transformation. As a Fixed Water sign, Scorpio is associated with the exploration of the depths of the psyche, the confrontation of fears, and the process of rebirth. The scorpion symbolizes resilience, defense, and the ability to regenerate.

Esoteric Perspective: The mantra "Warrior am I and from the Battle I emerge Triumphant" reflects Scorpio's journey of inner transformation and spiritual triumph. Scorpio's energy is about the merging of the light of form, soul, and life, leading to the liberation of the soul from the lower worlds. The sign is associated with the trials and tests of the soul's journey, ultimately leading to triumph and liberation.

Sagittarius:

Key Themes: Mutable Fire Sign, Ruled by Jupiter, Outspoken, Adventurous, Philosophical, Freedom-Loving, Idealistic, Generous, Wanderlust, Spiritual Aspiration.

Symbolism & Archetype: Sagittarius is the "seeker" and "philosopher," embodying the energy of exploration, truth-seeking, and spiritual aspiration. As a Mutable Fire sign, Sagittarius is associated with the quest for knowledge, the pursuit of higher wisdom, and the desire for freedom. The archer symbolizes direction, focus, and the pursuit of lofty goals.

Esoteric Perspective: The mantra "I see the Goal. I reach that goal and then I see another" reflects Sagittarius' journey of continuous spiritual growth and expansion. Sagittarius' energy is about seeing the vision of the goal and directing one's course toward it, driven by an intuitive sense of direction. The sign is associated with idealism, spiritual aspiration, and the power to see beyond the present.

Capricorn:

Key Themes: Cardinal Earth Sign, Ruled by Saturn, Ambition & Persistence, Practical Applications, Duties & Responsibilities, Focus on Building Secure Structures & Financial Security, Connection to History & Ancestry.

Symbolism & Archetype: Capricorn is the "builder" and "strategist," embodying the energy of discipline, responsibility, and long-term achievement. As a Cardinal Earth sign, Capricorn is associated with the pursuit of goals, the importance of structure, and the mastery of the material world. The mountain goat symbolizes perseverance, ambition, and the climb to the top.

Esoteric Perspective: The phrase "Lost am I in light supernal, yet on that light I turn my back" reflects Capricorn's journey of achieving spiritual enlightenment and the responsibility of turning back to serve humanity. Capricorn's energy is about balancing the light of the personality and the soul, leading to the experience of the mountain top, where spiritual initiation takes place. The sign is associated with the triumph of spiritual will over material limitations.

Aquarius:

Key Themes: Fixed Air Sign, Ruled by Uranus, Humanitarianism, Idealism, Connection to Higher Thought & Collective Ideals, Social Reformer, Emphasis on Friendship & Community.

Symbolism & Archetype: Aquarius is the "visionary" and "reformer," embodying the energy of innovation, idealism, and the collective consciousness. As a Fixed Air sign, Aquarius is associated with the pursuit of knowledge, the importance of social connections, and the drive to create a better future for all. The water bearer symbolizes the pouring forth of knowledge and wisdom to humanity.

Esoteric Perspective: The phrase "Water of Life am I, poured forth for thirsty men" reflects Aquarius' journey of serving humanity through the dissemination of spiritual knowledge and the promotion of unity. Aquarius' energy is about the realization of the oneness of all life and the importance of the collective good. The sign is associated with the awakening of spiritual consciousness and the unfolding of the plan for humanity.

Pisces:

Key Themes: Mutable Water Sign, Ruled by Neptune, Compassion & Empathy, Connection to the Subconscious & Dreams, Intuition, Spiritual Awareness, Sacrifice & Service, Boundlessness & Unity.

Symbolism & Archetype: Pisces is the "mystic" and "dreamer," embodying the energy of compassion, empathy, and spiritual transcendence. As a Mutable Water sign, Pisces is associated with the dissolution of boundaries, the exploration of the subconscious, and the connection to the divine. The fish symbolizes fluidity, the connection to the ocean of consciousness, and the ability to navigate the depths of the soul.

Esoteric Perspective: The phrase "I leave the Father’s Home and turning back, I save" reflects Pisces' journey of self-sacrifice and spiritual service. Pisces' energy is about the realization of unity with all life and the willingness to serve the collective through selflessness and compassion. The sign is associated with the completion of the soul's journey, leading to spiritual liberation and the merging with the divine.

follow for more astro insights like this and head on over to @quenysefields or my etsy --> sensualnoiree to grab my new astrology guidebook on reading your own natal chart :)

[olrastrologytarot]

Scorpio 🦂

Scorpio, the eighth sign of the zodiac, is represented by the Scorpion and ruled by Pluto, the planet of transformation and power, with Mars as its traditional ruler. Those born between October 23 and November 21 are known for their intensity, depth, and determination. Scorpios are often regarded as the most mysterious and magnetic of all the zodiac signs. Here’s a detailed look at the Scorpio personality:

1. Intense and Passionate

Emotional Depth: Scorpios are known for their emotional intensity. They feel things deeply and are often guided by their emotions, which can be both their greatest strength and their biggest challenge. This intensity extends to all areas of their lives, from relationships to work to personal goals.

Passion for Life: Scorpios are passionate individuals who throw themselves fully into whatever they do. Whether it’s a romantic relationship, a career, or a personal interest, they pursue their passions with a single-minded focus and determination.

2. Determined and Ambitious

Relentless Drive: Once a Scorpio sets their sights on a goal, they are relentless in their pursuit. They have a strong willpower and determination that allows them to overcome obstacles and challenges that might deter others. This makes them highly ambitious and often successful in achieving their goals.

Strategic Thinkers: Scorpios are not just determined; they are also highly strategic. They are skilled at planning and often think several steps ahead, considering all possible outcomes before making a move. This makes them excellent at navigating complex situations and achieving long-term success.

3. Mysterious and Secretive

Private Individuals: Scorpios are naturally secretive and often keep their thoughts and feelings to themselves. They value their privacy and may be reluctant to open up to others, especially if they do not fully trust them. This can make them appear mysterious or enigmatic to those around them.

Guarded: Trust is a significant issue for Scorpios. They are careful about who they let into their inner circle and may take a long time to fully open up to someone. Once they trust someone, they are fiercely loyal, but if that trust is broken, they can become deeply hurt and may seek revenge.

4. Loyal and Protective

Fierce Loyalty: Scorpios are incredibly loyal to those they care about. They form deep, intense bonds with their loved ones and will go to great lengths to protect and support them. Their loyalty is unwavering, and they expect the same in return from those they trust.

Protective Nature: Scorpios have a strong protective instinct, especially when it comes to their loved ones. They are willing to defend those they care about and can be fiercely protective, sometimes to the point of being possessive.

5. Transformative and Resilient

Embracing Change: Scorpios are often associated with transformation and rebirth. They are not afraid of change and may even seek it out as a way to grow and evolve. This ability to embrace change makes them incredibly resilient, as they can adapt to new situations and emerge stronger from challenges.

Inner Strength: Scorpios possess an inner strength that allows them to face adversity with courage and determination. They are survivors who can overcome even the most difficult of circumstances, often emerging from their struggles with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

6. Magnetic and Charismatic

Magnetic Personality: Scorpios have a natural magnetism that draws people to them. They exude a sense of mystery and allure that makes them fascinating to others. This magnetic quality often makes them stand out in a crowd and attracts people to their intensity and passion.

Charisma: Their charisma comes from their confidence and self-assuredness. Scorpios know who they are and what they want, and this certainty often inspires admiration and respect from those around them.

7. Complex and Contradictory

Layered Personality: Scorpios are complex individuals with many layers to their personality. They can be intense and passionate one moment, and calm and composed the next. This complexity can make them difficult to understand, as they often keep their true thoughts and feelings hidden beneath the surface.

Contradictions: Scorpios can be full of contradictions. They are both fiercely independent and deeply loyal, secretive and open, vengeful and forgiving. These contradictions are part of what makes Scorpios so intriguing and difficult to categorize.

8. Vengeful and Unforgiving

Holding Grudges: Scorpios have a long memory, and they do not easily forget wrongs done to them. If they feel betrayed or wronged, they can hold a grudge for a long time and may seek revenge. This vengeful side of their personality can make them formidable opponents.

Unforgiving: While Scorpios can be deeply loyal and loving, they can also be unforgiving if they feel that their trust has been betrayed. It can be difficult for them to let go of past hurts, and they may struggle to forgive those who have wronged them.

9. Resourceful and Independent

Self-Reliant: Scorpios are highly independent and prefer to rely on themselves rather than others. They are resourceful and capable of handling challenges on their own, often finding creative solutions to problems.

Strong-Willed: Their independence is matched by their strong will. Scorpios are not easily swayed by others and are determined to follow their own path, regardless of what others think or say.

In Summary

Scorpios are intense, passionate, and determined individuals with a magnetic presence and a complex personality. They are driven by deep emotions and a strong sense of purpose, often pursuing their goals with relentless focus and determination. While they can be secretive and guarded, they are fiercely loyal and protective of those they care about. Scorpios have a natural resilience and an ability to embrace change, making them powerful forces of transformation in their own lives and the lives of others. However, their intensity and vengeful nature can sometimes lead to challenges in relationships, as they may struggle to forgive and forget. Overall, Scorpios are enigmatic and powerful individuals who leave a lasting impression on those they encounter.

[prof-peach]

Hello professor, can you tell us more lore about the lady of the lake? She's my fave and I love her 🥰

The Lady Of The Lake, or 'Tanto' to staff and regulars is a Gyarados with no tail. She was the very first pokemon that inspired Grey to start inventing apparently, as she found her beached as a Magikarp when he was quite young, and something had bitten her back fin clean off. He built her a tail from scrap and slowly adjusted and learnt more as he went, keeping her around as a friend for many years.

His love of creating stems from her fighting spirit to keep living and surviving. She is tough and determined in nature, but because of how shes been raised, is a big softie.

Once evolved she was able to fly around happily, but without her tail as a rudder she was a little clumsy, so her new tail design had to adapt to new movements needed to shift around in the air, on land, and in the water, it was a tough build, but Grey figured it out.

Tanto lives in the lake now, but does move around, sometimes joining the pod of other Gyarados out in the ocean for brief moments, though they seem to recognise she's not a fighter and pick on her a bit.

Guests love her because you can get right up close and pet her, she loves attention, is a real softie, people are encouraged to stand in her mouth to take photos, or get up on her back if swimming out in the lake. its perfectly safe, she's very kind and gentle, and will socialise with any and all.

We actually utilise her softness as exposure therapy for people and pokemon who arent comfortable around the bigger mons, shes one of our star helpers with issues to overcome. Many have fear initially with her but shes proven time and time again that Gyarados arent all rage and nothing else. I can't actually recall the last time she was angry about anything.

Lady loves scratches under the chin, and comes in once or twice a month for check ups, adjustments, and a good clean, as the algae in the lake can start to build up around her joints. We've recently released some more remoraid into her lake with her since the last batch had been adopted out, and they seem to keep her company and far tidier, cleaning up the green off her scales with ease.

She can put on a bit of a show if there is midnight tours, which we do hold from time to time, as she loves the volbeat and illumise that dance on the lakes surface, and comes up to jump through them. Honestly shes an all around darling, and even me, with a water phobia, has waded in many times just to see her. She has a very magnetic, charasmatic personlity.

She leaves the lake about 3-4 times a week to hunt in the oceans for food, making sure not to eat guests or patients, so we're very appreciative, some of the other Pokemon could take a leaf from her book thats for sure! Certainly have to keep an eye on them, but she's hassle free and considerate.

[aroacesafeplaceforall]

So I'm making a story that may or may not go anywhere and basically all the characters are aspec. Am I adding too many aspec characters? I feel guilty for some reason about this and I would like some advice.

NO

MAKE THEM ALL ASPEC

ADAPT

OVERCOME

EVOLVE

[argumate]

Ukrainian forces have defended against Russia's full-scale invasion for 1,000 days and continue to demonstrate incredible resilience against Russian aggression. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022 under the incorrect assumption that Ukraine would fail to defend itself and that Russian forces would be able to seize Kyiv City and install a pro-Russian proxy government in three days. One thousand days later, Ukrainian forces have successfully pushed Russian forces from their most forward points of advance in Zhytomyr, Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Kherson, Poltava, and Mykolaiv oblasts and continue their daily fight to liberate occupied territory in Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhia, Mykolaiv, and Kherson oblasts and Crimea. Russian forces are currently advancing throughout eastern Ukraine, and Ukrainian officials have recently warned about the possibility of an imminent Russian offensive operation in Zaporizhia Oblast. Russian President Vladimir Putin is simultaneously waging an informational war against the West, Ukraine, and the Russian population aimed at convincing the world that Russian victory is inevitable, and that Ukraine stands no chance. This informational effort is born out of Putin's fear and understanding that sustained Western military, economic, and diplomatic support for Ukraine will turn the tide of the war against Russia.

Russia has accumulated a significant amount of risk and a number of ever-increasing constraints on its warfighting capabilities over the last 1,000 days. Russia began the war with a poorly organized and understaffed military comprised of contract military personnel and limited number of conscripts due to his incorrect assumption that Ukraine would fold and fear that general mobilization could threaten the stability of his regime. Russia largely relied on a combination of volunteer contract servicemembers, mobilized personnel, and irregular formations (such as the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republic Army Corps [DNR/LNR AC], the Wagner Group, and Russian Volunteer Corps) to wage Putin's war without general mobilization. This system has provided the Kremlin the manpower necessary to support operations so far, but there are mounting indicators that this system is beginning to teeter. Recent Western estimates of Russian manpower losses suggest that Russian forces are currently losing more troops per month than Russia’s ongoing crypto-mobilization efforts can sustain, and open-source evidence indicates that Russia may not be able to sustain its current rate of armored vehicle and tank losses in the medium term as Russia burns through its stockpiles of Soviet-era equipment. The upcoming 2025 year will only increase the manpower and materiel constraints on the Russian military if Russia attempts to sustain its current offensive tempo, and Putin continues to appear averse to such measures given Russian society's growing disinterest in fighting in Russia’s war, the Russian economy’s limitations including a significant labor deficit and high inflation, and continual aversion to bearing the burden of additional wartime costs. Russia cannot maintain its current tempo indefinitely. Putin will likely need to take disruptive and drastic measures - including another involuntary call up of the mobilization reserve - to overcome these growing limitations as the war protracts.

it's been a long and ruinously expensive war, I think something we've often underestimated is how both sides would keep adapting to the evolving conditions

[yoonavii]

Dating the Blind Girl

Context: sanji dating a girl who’s blind

Sanji's interest in you goes beyond physical appearance. He's drawn to your intelligence, wit, and the way you perceive the world through your other senses.

Your initial interactions are characterized by engaging conversations, where he’s genuinely captivated by your insights and perspective on life.

Sanji discovers that beauty isn't confined to physical appearance. He's fascinated by the strength and resilience you exhibit in navigating a world without sight. Your confidence and ability to overcome challenges captivate him.

He finds common ground with you through your shared love for cooking. He realizes that while he often emphasizes the visual presentation of dishes, you focus on flavors, aromas, and textures, enriching his culinary knowledge.

Sanji becomes attuned to your preferences and adapts his gestures to make you feel comfortable. He describes the dishes he prepares in vivid detail, painting a picture with words that you can savor.

You both explore new activities together, finding joy in experiences that engage your other senses. You may take walks on the beach, listening to the waves, or attend live performances, appreciating the music and atmosphere.

Sanji is incredibly patient and understanding, providing unwavering support as you share your experiences and challenges. He listens attentively, offering reassurance and encouragement whenever you face difficulties.

Sanji learns to communicate through touch, holding hands or guiding you with gentle gestures. He's considerate of your personal space and boundaries, making sure you feel comfortable in your interactions.

He occasionally surprises you with unique experiences. He might cook a meal with diverse textures and flavors or take you on a sensory adventure like feeling different fabrics or smelling exotic flowers.

As your relationship deepens, Sanji's admiration for you evolves into a profound love. He realizes that you enrich his life in ways he never imagined, and he's grateful to have you by his side.

Sanji's natural compassion and empathy shine through as he navigates your relationship. He learns from your perspective, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges you face and the unique joys you find.

Despite any hurdles, Sanji's love for you remains steadfast. He values you for who you are and cherishes the unique bond you share, built on mutual respect, understanding, and love.

©𝐘𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐕𝐈𝐈— Any sign/evidence of plagiarism made from outside this name will be dealt with by whatever means necessary. Legal action may occur if non fanfiction works are plagiarized.

[charg3rs0ck3t]

Faux promises and secret solaces.

Killian jones x reader

Warnings: it’s once upon a time, that’s the only warning you’ll need.

This is not proofread. There will probably be mistakes and I will fix them!

———————————————————————

You met him in the enchanted forest.

You fell for him in Neverland.

You lost him in Storybrooke.

You found him in your heart.

———————————————————————

The first time you met Hook, you could tell he was trouble.

He did him self no favours in trying to not be suspicious, but the others needed him so you held your tongue. Although, this was despite how much you truly wanted to rip out his tongue and shove it somewhere the sun doesn’t shine.

The way he’d take glances at you and smirk if you were walking close by, would make backhanded compliments, flirt to get his way, pick winning sides, he was a pirate. He was a pirate and you hated him. You hated his kind.

He was exactly the sort of man Regina would have used in her pursuit of ‘revenge’, the exact sort of man that killed your father.

But he wasn’t, no matter how many times he would breathily chuckle at some comment or some face you had made, you had to hold yourself back. You had to stop yourself from killing the man who smoothly laughed even in the face of his own demise. You had to stop from wanting to punch him in the throat and strip him of that feathery and deep chortle that took away all of your fears, that freed you of your panic, and provided you a euphoria that you had personally forbidden.

He was bad for you, bad for this team, bad for this mission.

He was a bad guy.

He was a villain,

and villains don’t get happy endings.

Leaving him behind was something you and Emma had talked about, you knew she also held distrust of him. Luckily, she had already planned on abandoning him.

The bean stalk was a stroke of luck, Anton was a stroke of luck.

Sure, you felt a slight sense of remorse as you had distracted him. But, as soon as Emma has attached that shackle, you let out a breath that you didn’t even know was there. Something felt good about going back to your life of solace, your newfound life of grief. He was too wild, too unpredictable, it scared you more than anyone would ever know.

You had fully expected not to see him again.

But fate seemed to have a sense of humour.

Such a fickle thing.

———————————————————————

Going back to Storybrooke, nothing was the same.

Your life had changed.

You didn’t know if it was for the better.

But your life had changed, your old life was gone. You had to adapt. No more was it straight lines and schedules, none of the life that Regina had provided was there, instead it was constant fights and unpredictability.

You had to become as unpredictable as the dangers you faced. You turned to the memories of the man in the enchanted forest, his power hidden behind his nonchalance and his loyalty a question left unanswered.

However much you hated the man, you needed to channel some part of him to adapt, to evolve and to overcome. The curse was broken, but danger seemed ever present. The towns memories were returned, but so were their worries, their fears, their anger. Instability was the first sign of anarchy and chaos, one weakness could enact a revolution among the people. So you did as you would, a child of a royal knight, ever loyal to Snow and Prince Charming, one of whom had raised you as a child throughout the curse.

All you had was your friends and your loyalty, but you’d soon learn that wasn’t enough.

———————————————————————

Yet the man returned, Hook. Still as untrustworthy as ever and yet, he seemed less irritating when in Storybrooke, except maybe for his dangerous tendencies and antisocial behaviour.

Henry being taken by pan was devastating, but this was the unpredictability you had planned for. So you knew what to do.

———————————————————————

The ride to Neverland on the Jolly Rodger was less than pleasant. It was full of cryptic warnings and misdirected anger. Even Emma was struggling.

The mermaid that was soon brought above deck definitely didn’t help your nerves, nor did the storm that soon followed and berated the ship.

You could catch no one’s attention, you had figured that the warnings may have held some truth. This land was built on belief. There were definitely some strong negative beliefs between them all. The blame fest began, fighting ensued and you couldn’t take it. So as you searched through the rain, you caught sight of land and jumped overboard. Your thoughts were that if no one would listen, you’d at least catch someone’s attendance or make your own way to land without them.

What you didn’t account for was a bit of broken barrel being launched after you and slamming into the back of your head once you had reached the ice cold water.

Losing your breath and all reasonable thinking, you gaped your mouth like a fish, breathing in and spluttering out water to no avail.

You could feel it filling your lungs and your eyes began to close, focused on the blurry light of the moon above you, till it was covered by the shadow of someone diving in for you. But by then you were already too tired.

———————————————————————

Opening your eyes and coughing out liquid from your burning lungs seemed to have never felt so good. That was until you saw it was a particular irritating man that hovered over your jolting form, hand on your shoulder as he helped you sit up.

The storm has calmed now, and you smiled. Everyone’s focus was on you, eyes wide at the madness that had ensued.

“Hey! Don’t look at me like that! See! I got the storm to stop.” You proclaimed in a broken voice, interrupted slightly by a coughing fit and a small ‘thank you’ as you were passed a blanket.

The way that David and Snow stared at you was obvious you’d get some form of scolding later, but you hadn’t cared too much for it. When the curse was first broken, they had to double check you weren’t in some way related to Jefferson with how you often acted on impulse, in supposed madness. So rest assured you were used to scolding.

Getting to the island was your priority, keeping the team together and getting Henry was your number one goal.

But you could help but notice the glances the pirate would send you when he thought you weren’t looking.

———————————————————————

Neverland was a place of pure belief. A place of magic and miracles.

———————————————————————

It seemed like as if by some miracle, you started to believe in the sincerity and goodness of a certain pirate.

Hook was caring, he was careful and serious. He was always suited to the situation, always ready. But he could also lighten the mood.

It seemed all the time that wasn’t spent avidly searching for Henry, fighting Pan or planning, he always wanted to make you laugh.

The first time you had laughed at one of his jokes, it would have been some stupid joke about his hand.

“Can you give me a hand?” David had yelled over.

“Cmon really? Last time I lent one out I didn’t even get it back!” He had hollered back in response, turning to smirk at David’s glare.

Only.. only he spun right back around when he heard a small chuckle.

Seeing you, with your back turned to him and hand coving your mouth, was all he needed to decide that you were right for him. He walked over to David with a huge smile on his face and kept stealing glances at you the entire time.

———————————————————————

Getting Henry, finding Neal alive, dealing with Rumpelstilsken. Everything felt insane.

It was all too much, you had lost Henry again to Pan, he was too powerful and you all seemed powerless.

You pulled your legs to your chest and buried your head in your knees. Making yourself small was all you could do when the world felt so big around you that it felt like it would swallow you up and you’d be nothing but a snack to a bigger cause.

Feeling a soft hand on your shoulder brought you back to reality, the reality that you had been sat sobbing into your arms after you had ran off from the main camp.

At first you were afraid, was this hand malicious, was it Pan?

But after hearing a feathery throat clearing, you raised your head to meet eyes with Killian.

“Killian? What’s up? I thought you’d be with David or Emma.” You muttered out in response to his presence.

“Y’know, I’m not sure Miss swan or her doting ‘same-age parents are too fond of me. Plus we both know that I can’t exactly tell one hand jokes to Regina lest I want to lose that and another appendage id much like to keep..” he takes a breath whilst you smile at his sarcasm. “Plus, You’re the only one who calls me my name, I’m getting sick of ‘Hey you’ ‘Oi’ ‘pirate’ or if they’re really creative, I get to hear ‘asshole’, would that be pleasant for you m’lady?” You laugh and shake your head in response.

“No, I suppose not kind sir~.” You tease him, just wanting to stay in the moment, it felt light and airy, for the first time in days you felt free. “Although I’m honoured you’d grace me with your presence, I sure hope it’s not because I’m the only one who doesn’t currently want to stab you?”

He turns to look at you, “Of course not, for a royal knight though, surely you should be the one to want to stab me most of all. Maybe it’d be better that way.” He moves in, close to your face, as you are enamoured with gazing into his eyes.

“I’m sure they can handle themselves, Four powerful people after you if you do anything wrong, I think I should be okay to try and resign from stabbing at the moment. Plus, if anything were to happen I’m sure I could accept the consequences.” He grabs your chin and smiles.

“You? Face the consequences? Perhaps you just are afraid to accept you might actually have fallen for me~” He pulls you into a short and passionate kiss. Grinning against your lips as he rests his forehead against your own.

“Not a chance pirate!” You tease as you stand up and begin to walk away, sporting a mischievous grin of your own.

But before you could walk further he grabbed your wrist and was suddenly stood right in front of you.

“Mark my words sweetheart, I’ll have your heart, we’ll take it as slow as you need but I will have it, as you’ve enslaved mine.” And as you turned your head away to think on what he had said, he had already walked off deeper into the forest.

Okay, maybe you did like him.

———————————————————————

Your return to Storybrooke was perfect, you could live the life you had whispered plans of every night since that moment in Neverland.

It was meant to be your fairytale ending.

Meant to be.

———————————————————————

Falling asleep every night, Hook would sit there hands running through your hair as you laid your head in his lap.

Every night he would repeat one sentence

“I’ll be here when you wake up, I promise.”

Except one night, when he wasn’t.

You woke up one night. Checking the clock next to you it was some time around 1 in the morning.

You weren’t sure what had woken you up until you heard sounds of struggling and choking. It was Killian! He sounded in pain.

You rushed down to see Pans shadow ripping Killian’s as he struggled against the figure.

Catching a glimpse of you, the shadow tore the other from your lovers frame and stole them both. Dragging them from the home as you chased and screamed for help, for Killian, for anyone.

You pinched yourself, you screamed until your throat went raw and your mouth ran dry, you yelled and sobbed until you had half of the town surrounding you, trying to figure out what had happened.

In your worn voice you could get out two sentences.

“Pans back.” “Killian’s gone.”

That was all you could force out before you fell to the floor, soon encased in a warm pair of arms trying to lift you back into the house. The house that you had just lost everything in. The house that was meant to have been your home.

———————————————————————

It had been months since the incident, months of failed attempts and grieving.

But you had had enough of being sad.

Nothing was going to save you, no one was going to save you, so you were going to save yourself.

One day you got up, took a shower, brushed your teeth and hair, and went into work.

Life had to continue as normal, you had to ignore the concerned glances and you had to hope the eye bags would go away on their own.

So life went on, it went on without him. Although it hurt, it needed to, the world couldn’t stop for another 28 years, everyone couldn’t just forget again.

However much you wished they could.

———————————————————————

Emma and David had been trying to interrogate the shadow for months now. They had decided to keep Regina’s torture methods away and just had to hope that a non physical being had some form of conscience.

In those months they had nothing.

Nothing until the shadow gave off a mirage, a realm of bodies and their shadows caring for them.

And in the middle of it all was him.

The man you cared about most.

Killian.

———————————————————————

Waking up to a breathy humming and the feeling of hands in your hair wasn’t unusual.

In your grief, you had accidentally began to see Killian. You’d see him every morning, you’d see him at dinner, you’d even make him an extra plate.

You knew he wasn’t real.

But you needed to cope somehow.

There was a hole in your heart and you couldn’t just fill it with a child like Regina could.

This morning felt real though, it felt too real. But it also felt too good to be true.

You opened your eyes to see him where he usually sat, next to you, hands in your hair playing with the strands.

“Why must you torture me every morning.” You muttered. “He’s gone and he’s never coming back.. I’m never gonna wake up to him ever again so just! Just go away!”

You yelled.

You’ve been yelling at your hallucination of him a lot lately.

Usually he’d disappear, actually, every single time he’d disappear. But you turned around from where you were now sat up and he was still there.

He stared at you, tears in his eyes, reaching out for your cheek. He needed to touch you again.

“Killian..?” You whimpered out.

“I told you I’d be here when you woke up” he said, tears streaming down his face as he tackled you and held you in his arms.

You both sobbed. You cried like you hadn’t seen each-other in years. You held each-other like the other would slip out of grasp and disappear again.

You were here.

He was here.

You had him back, you had your home and he had your heart.

And in his heart he knew he’d never let you go ever again.

[smoshpops]

The coolest thing about Anthony rejoining smosh is how much smosh has changed. It’s transcended. It’s adapted to survive. It’s overcome challenges. It is something completely new to the old smosh. It’s different. But so are Ian and Anthony. This wouldn’t have worked if all three hadn’t evolved and grown and changed. All the old fans should be thanking the added cast for that. Without them (esp Shayne, Courtney and Damien in the beginning and now Chanse, Angela, Arasha and Amanda) smosh would have faded and sank. Smosh and the “new” cast provided an outlet to Ian to figure out who he was becoming, to develop his humor without Anthony, to pursue passion projects without limits (let’s do this was as unhinged as Ian could have dreamed) and now new classic smosh is giving Anthony a chance to get back to his roots. I guess what I’m saying is, without smosh changing, without the new cast, you wouldn’t have old smosh back.

[clockworkdragonffxiv]

So I was thinking more about the dragons in Final Fantasy XIV, as I am wont, and decided to go on a bit of a ramble.

We joke a lot about Midgarsormr being the WoL's dad, which he kind of is from how he treats you. Or rather, he treats you like he would a fledgling dragon. Dragons don't seem to show affection for their young the way humans do. I'm not saying they don't care, but I get the feeling that a dragon hatchling straight out of the egg is more than capable of taking down small game like rabbits and chickens.

But during the story when you're running around he won't get involved because, eh, you've got this. And you won't learn anything if you don't handle it yourself. So fight your own battles, kiddo.

Which actually fits what we see of FFXIV dragons and their mindset, especially the scraps we see of their homeworld and their nature. Dragons are more or less a triumph of evolution because they're incredibly adaptable. Their bodies spontaneously mutate at developmental tiers to address environmental factors, so you get a huge variation in phenotypes among one species, and if pressed can do so with extreme speed. Like the dragon kid in that crafting turn-in questline. She evolved thumbs and grasping hands as part of basically hitting dragon puberty, a thing that no dragon to the best of her knowledge had before. I can only imagine what environmental pressures pressed them to evolve in that way, or if it's a trait common to species from their planet. But either way, it makes sense that Midgarsormr would have this kind of attitude: to him that's how dragons grow strong and overcome things.

It's why he stripped you of most of Hydalen's protections and tossed you in the deep end, leaving the Traveler's Ward mostly as a courtesy to Hydalen, because from his perspective that's how you learn. You hurl yourself at challenges and overcome them and adapt to your environment. While they'll work together because it's demanded of them or out of mutual self-interest, they're by nature individualists and rising and falling by their own strength. Which is what weirds them out about humans: humans are collective. We're small and find strength by, well, cheating. Instead of growing bigger muscles or adapting ourselves to the world, we build tools to increase our leverage. Air is too cold? Sew heavy clothes. Mountain too high? Invent grapple lines and climbing shoes. Powerful enemy? Swarm them with numbers and bring them down by hitting them from every direction. River floods? Change the river with the strength of thousands.

I like to think that's what fascinated Ratatoskr about humanity. I also think it's part of why Midgarsormr and the others seem to sort of like the Warrior of Light in their own way. The WoL, to them, is somewhere in between man and dragon in their thinking by being a paragon of humankind. The WoL's constant need to hurl themselves into the breach and grow stronger by doing so feels natural to them. It makes sense. I really wish the game would spend more time exploring how they're slowly integrating with humanity. But then I'd probably happily have an entire story or game just around the humans and dragons slowly getting the hang of each other and what they can build together.