#and present the discovery of the century kind of type

[lunavagans]

Continuation from the sketch. Not sure if I like the tunic being more elaborate than the canon version, but I‘m happy with the colours now (though I‘ll probably tweak the tunic again). I think the freckles being lighter than his skin is kinda cute, and if I do make him forest-themed, I could maybe go in a deer sort of direction.

Close-up of the face for the details:

[astrojulia]

Tarot is an Abstract Art

The tarot is an enigmatic and intriguing tool that has captivated people for centuries. With a history shrouded in mystery, this ancient instrument is composed of 78 cards that are divided into two distinct groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Each card holds its own unique meaning and symbolism, making the tarot a rich and complex system that can be used for divination, self-reflection, and spiritual exploration.

To fully unlock the secrets of the tarot, it is essential to engage with all of its material. This means exploring and understanding the meaning and significance of each of the 78 cards, and how they relate to one another in the context of a reading. Through this process of deep study and contemplation, one can begin to grasp the intricate web of symbolism and meaning that underpins the tarot.

But the tarot is more than just a collection of cards – it is a reflection of life itself, with all its joys, struggles, triumphs, and challenges. The journey of the tarot is a journey of self-discovery, of facing the unknown, and of finding the courage to move forward in the face of uncertainty. As we delve deeper into the mysteries of the tarot, we begin to see how its insights can help us navigate the complexities of our own lives, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

The Tarot Structure

The tarot is a fascinating and intricate system that consists of a specific and traditional structure, which includes a total of 78 cards. This structure is divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The term "Arcana" means "secrets," which alludes to the hidden and esoteric knowledge that is contained within the cards.

The Major Arcana is composed of 22 cards, numbered from 0 to 21 (Sometimes from 1 to 22). These cards are considered to be the most significant and powerful cards in the deck, as they represent major archetypes and universal themes that are present in human experience. Each card in the Major Arcana has a distinct meaning and symbolism, and together they form a kind of narrative or journey that reflects the human condition.

The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, consists of 56 cards, which are further divided into four suits: swords, cups, wands, and pentacles (also known as coins or disks). Each suit has 14 cards, with the numbered cards ranging from ace to 10, and four unnumbered court cards: the Page, Knight, Queen, and King. The suits are associated with different aspects of human experience, such as intellect (swords), emotions (cups), creativity (wands), and material wealth (pentacles).

The structure of the tarot is significant because it provides a framework for interpreting the cards and understanding how they relate to one another. By understanding the structure of the tarot, one can begin to grasp the underlying patterns and themes that are present in the cards. This, in turn, can lead to a deeper understanding of the human experience and the mysteries of the universe.

Picking your first Tarot Deck

Choosing a tarot deck is an essential step in starting your study of the tarot. While there are many different types of tarot decks available, it is often recommended that beginners start with the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck. This deck, which was created by Arthur Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, is perhaps the most well-known and widely used tarot deck in the world.

One of the reasons why the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is recommended for beginners is because there is a wealth of information available on the symbolism and meaning of the cards. Many books, online resources, and courses are focused on this particular deck, making it easier to find information and guidance when starting out. Additionally, because it is so widely used, there are many interpretations and perspectives on the cards, which can be helpful for understanding the different layers of meaning that can be found within the tarot.

Another advantage of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is its clear and easily recognizable imagery. The cards are designed with simple, clean lines and colors, which make it easier for beginners to understand and interpret the symbolism. However, it is important to note that everyone may have a different connection with different decks. For instance, some people may find a tarot deck with more abstract or complex images to be more resonant with their own personal experiences and interpretation.

Ultimately, the choice of which tarot deck to use is a personal one, and there are no hard and fast rules. While the Rider-Waite-Smith deck may be recommended for beginners, it is important to choose a deck that speaks to you personally, and that you feel comfortable working with. Whether it is a mermaid tarot, Marseille tarot, or another deck, the most important thing is to choose a deck that inspires and resonates with you, and to approach the study of the tarot with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.

For example, my first tarot was a gift, and it was inspired by Waite's Tarot and the first one I bought was also inspired by Waite's tarot too, but with a mermaid theme.

How to Study Tarot

Studying the tarot is much like learning a new language. In order to become fluent in the language of the tarot, one must become familiar with the symbols, archetypes, and meanings associated with each of the 78 cards. There are many different techniques and approaches that can be used to improve your fluency and understanding of the tarot.

One of the most effective ways to study the tarot is to create summaries of the cards and their meanings. By summarizing the essence of each card, you can develop a deeper understanding of its symbolism and how it relates to the other cards in the deck. Additionally, interacting with the tarot community and seeking out resources such as books, blogs, and online courses can help you to gain new insights and perspectives on the tarot. An addendum, summarizing is not picking up keywords for each card.

Another key element of studying the tarot is to put your knowledge into practice by doing tarot readings. By practicing your skills and experimenting with different spreads and interpretations, you can hone your skills and develop your own unique approach to reading the cards.

It is also important to see the tarot in the world around you. By observing how the symbols and archetypes of the tarot manifest in everyday life, you can deepen your understanding of the cards and gain new insights into their meanings. For example, I love to compare breaking the eggs as The Tower and cooking it Death.

Finally, one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to improve your fluency in the tarot is to consume as much content as possible. This can include reading books, watching videos, listening to podcasts, and attending workshops and classes. You can also learn a great deal by watching other tarot readers in action, whether it be through online videos or in-person readings. By immersing yourself in the world of the tarot, you can develop a deep and intuitive understanding of its language and symbolism, and become a skilled and confident reader.

Don't Stop at the Major Arcana

It is essential to recognize that the tarot system is composed of 78 cards, and not just the 22 Major Arcana. While the Major Arcana represents the major mysteries and archetypes of the universe, the Minor Arcana is equally important and represents the everyday aspects of life. Just because they are called "minor" does not mean that they are less significant than the Major Arcana. In fact, the Minor Arcana is often referred to as the "lesser mysteries," representing the subtle nuances and complexities of our daily lives.

It is worth noting that in the past, many tarot readers focused only on the Major Arcana due to a lack of information and instruction. However, with the wealth of knowledge and resources available today, it is vital to explore the full potential of the tarot system by utilizing all 78 cards.

By incorporating the Minor Arcana into your readings, you can gain a deeper understanding of the everyday experiences and challenges that people face. So don't limit yourself to just the Major Arcana - embrace the full potential of the tarot system by exploring all 78 cards.

Extra: Now I am going to be honest, I will try to write about all the cards... I had already started but got discouraged once but I will try again. So I just ask you to be patient..

Sources:

Mermaid art

[anxious-ace]

Chronorun Reports notes:

Van Helsing, Jekyll, and Mrs. Frankenstein (Victor's mom) are siblings with Abraham and Henry being twins and Caroline being a few years younger (specific ages will have to wait until my brain decides that doing math is worth it)

(they are all a mix of Dutch, British, and Swiss btw)

(yes this means that Victor is Van Helsing's and Jekyll's nephew)

Van Helsing formed the HOSC to essentially bring light to all of the scientific discoveries that are happening (Jekyll's serum, any supernatural being he encountered, the time machine, Victor's creation, Griffin's invisibility, and more) but not without the house members' consent

Now let's get into the plot- a good amount of people in this universe have powers (almost all of the members of both societies have powers)

They are as follows:

Van Helsing- gains an ability of whatever type of entity he conquers (if he were to slay a vampire he would only get one of the abilities shared within all vamps. Ie teleportation) as well as natural immunity to most (not all) supernatural attacks and anomalistic mastery (or that could just be from his job)

Jekyll- technically he speaks to Hyde through telepathy as well as having telekinesis

Hyde- telepathy like Jekyll (because of course) and the ability to teleport objects and people away from and to him

(Jekyll and Hyde are forced to work together because they are not able to do what the other can as well as the other)

Victor- weather control (I just wanted to reference the movies, I think he would use it to help him animate the creation)

Griffin- now I know you might think that I'm going to make his invisibility his power, but that's not the case. He can however talk to animals, he just doesn't want anyone to know.

Time traveler- let's get the obvious out of the way, he can see any point in time (past present, and future), and it proved very helpful (but overwhelming and contributes to his time blindness)

Sherlock- like the time traveler, he could be obvious (giving him some kind of hyper-intelligence) so I'll give him tactical analysis and the hyper intertellince (or he could not have the ability and just be that smart, I haven't decided yet)

Watson- since he's a physician and royal army surgeon (according to Wikipedia), giving him a healing ability (more so healing others) would be a fair but obvious move. However, I want his medical knowledge to be utilized (meaning he would use actual medical practices instead of relying on powers) so the proper techniques would still have to be used (more so internal and really bad external wounds, broken bones, and deep/wide cuts being examples)

Gwen- now she could be a little difficult (considering the fact she is someone else's oc and I'm a bit scared to ask because it might look like I'm stealing their idea) so I'll move on for now. (she could have enhanced reflexes as it would be really helpful)

Switching gears to more general ideas (I'm looking for a reason to segway into the investigative committee's powers)

Griffin and the time traveler don't use their names for reasons they'd rather not admit (it has something to do with their experiments)

Van Helsing and Jekyll may make it look like they hate Victor (because he's an irresponsible, spoiled, college dropout who can be a bit of a nervous wreck at the most inconvenient times possible) but they're still trying to help him get over everything (and to take some god damn responsibly for once in his life)

Van Helsing and Watson are transcribing past journals, audio logs (the series takes place in the 21st century), and more as a part of the whole "bring light to all of the scientific discoveries that are happening" thing the HOSC does

The HOSC is very queer (not really with each other but you know)

Jekyll is a trans, ace, gay man (maybe Hyde too, he hasn't really thought about it, both he/him though)

Victor is pansexual and nonbinary (he/they)

Griffin is a bi demi-boy (also he/they)

Sherlock seems to be more interested in his work than in relationships (aroace cis man)

Watson is more open to the idea than Sherlock is though, at some point being stated to have said "I think everyone looks nice, does that mean im attracted to everyone? No not everyone, but certain people attract me more than others." (doesn't put a label on gender either but uses he/it/they)

Time Traveler is a theatre kid so he is probably the most open with his sexuality and gender (gay nonbinary dude using they/it)

Again, I have no idea for Gwen as she is not my character (well none of them are, I might have one at some point but thats not what I'm here for) so I either ask the creator or leave her as unlabelled (which might not be a bad idea actually) although the picrew shows her as aroace

Van Helsing might be the only straight one (I say might be because he doesn't know, still uses he/him though)

Now for the Missing person's investigative committee: they are in charge of finding out the who, where, what, why, when, and how of missing person cases

Utterson and Poole started it after Jekyll faked his death, which happened about a week after Van Helsing got back from killing Dracula (so it was like 7 years ago based on Quincey jr's age in the main story)

I'm now imagining a very stressed Van Helsing hearing about his brother supposedly killing himself because his latest experiment went tits up (excuse me while I try not to cry)

Their powers are:

Utterson- since he's a lawyer, giving him something like Holmes' hyper-intelligence (if it's his ability at all) is kinda obvious so some kind of adaptive ability could be fun (body language analysis could be useful)

Poole- super speed to help him with all of his duties (and in case of emergencies)

Mycroft- I kinda want his to be out of the park but still useful in a way, fuck it he can turn off others' abilities either by touching them or snapping his fingers

Walton- some kind of internal GPS for his traveling

Kemp- I tried reading the invisible man wiki to see what kind of doctor he is (he did go to a medical school so that could help) but couldn't really find anything so im going in sorta blind. I'm just going to make him a shapeshifter

Now that that is out of the way, few more things until pride shit

If someone pisses off Mycroft, their powers are just gone for the day (which could be devasting if they piss him off during a very important mission)

Walton being the youngest (younger than Hyde but older than Victor) means he is often the fastest and most agile of the group (until Poole uses his super speed obviously)

He's basically the group's son (at least to most of them, Mycroft might have some warming up to do)

Now, pride:

Utterson- Jekyll's husband (cis bi man, uses he/him)

Poole- unlabeled sexuality (aro he/it user)

Mycroft- like Van Helsing, he might be the only straight one (uses he/him)

Walton- trans, demisexual man (he/them/it)

Kemp- omnisexual nonbinary (they/them)

@mrhyde-mrseek what do you think?

[edwin-payne-enthusiast]

electing strange perfections (in any stranger i choose) - Chapter 1/?

next | masterlist | AO3

Word count: 5117

Summary:

The fae world and the human world had always been mostly separate. Fae crossed between the two realms while humans remained oblivious to their very existence, and that was how it had been for centuries. But when the lines start to bleed, and humans start catching on, who's going to step in and put an end to the conflict that follows? Human or fae, fate does tend to fall into strange hands (aka, logince fae au)

((AN: this is like 60% based on an rp i did a while back on tumblr. I definitely strayed from the original storyline a lot but the idea and the characters are like… pretty similar i think. this is also incredibly self indulgent bc im a sucker for logince. enjoy :] ))

~ * ~

Humans liked to consider themselves to be intelligent. Masters of the world they lived in. They dug up coal to power their great machines, and cut down trees to put up the scaffolding for towering buildings. They sacrificed their share of the Earth for the wonders they saw fit to create, and they turned to each other with unsatisfied smiles, as if to say: ‘Look at that. Look at the greatness we have achieved’.

They never quite finished with their powerful innovations, there was always something more. Some turned to science, and quickly became bored, many claiming that we had already mastered the Earth, there was nothing more to learn. Yes, humans quickly convinced themselves that they understood most everything, and whatever they didn’t understand, well, they at least could pinpoint its existence, could say with confidence that it was infact real. Although this mindset has led to great discoveries, it is the hinderance of the most vital secrets that the Earth holds close to her chest.

Then again, perhaps it’s not always the important people making the important discoveries. After all, sometimes fate does tend to fall into strange hands.

~ * ~

Logan awoke just like he did every other morning, the smell of coffee drifting up the stairs, the sound of his mothers poorly singing along to some ABBA song, the summery morning air drifting in from his window that he always forgot to close, his homework still strewn across his desk from his late night study session. All was normal because that day was a normal day.

He got out of bed as usual, ten minutes before his alarm was supposed to go off, as he always tended to wake up earlier than he needed to. He blamed it on his circadian rhythm, and would usually bore his mothers to death with some scientific spiel whenever the topic came up, but if asked if he would set his alarm back ten minutes to compensate for it, he refused for whatever reason.

He put on his school clothes that he had laid out the night before, black jeans, a blue button up and a black tie, similar to what he always wore, formal and neat. He heard that type of clothing would get kids bullied in some schools, but he kept his head down, was quiet and polite, and his peers were always kind to him, even if he never found himself with many friends.

He brushed his hair, cleaned his teeth, made himself seem presentable, turned off his alarm once it went off, picked up his already packed schoolbag and slung it over his shoulder, before he went downstairs, everything going the way it always did. Today would be a normal day, why wouldn’t it be?

Logan’s feet had barely left the bottom step when one of his mothers swept into the hallway from around the corner. April was her name, named after the month she was born in. She often joked about her parents lack of creativity, and her surprise that her younger brother wasn’t named January. She was a shorter woman, with deep golden tan skin and kind eyes shining from behind a pair of round framed glasses. Her hair was long, dark, and curly, and her face was adorned with deep smile lines to compliment her dimples. Logan knew his mom had always been a beautiful woman, though he didn’t need to say it, his other mother, Natalie (named after nothing in particular, her parents simply adored the name), did her best to remind her wife every morning.

April walked to up to him with a skip in her step, going on her tip toes to run a hand through his hair “Oh Logan, look at you, always so professional looking. It’s high school, not a business conference you know?” she smiled fondly as she stepped back to admire her son.

“Mama, please, I have a reputation to uphold,” Logan replied, flattening down his hair. It was insatiably curly, and he always did his best to keep in neat. Just another trait he shared with his mama. People had always pointed out how similar he and April looked, ever since he was a child. April always tried to convince him that he had Natalie’s eyes, but he knew now that he was older that made no sense. Natalie, with her pale skin and pin straight brown hair, played about as much of a part in his genetic makeup as the anonymous man from the sperm bank played in his upbringing.

Logan’s almond skin, his poor eyesight, his curly, dark hair, all were traits he shared with his mama. He figured that the anonymous donor must have been tall though, as he was almost a head taller than both of his mothers, with a bit more room for maybe one more growth spurt.

“Oh please, all of your teachers already adore you” April hummed and tugged on Logan’s tie gently “At least lose the tie, it’s going to be hot today. Come on, breakfast is ready, we might even let you have two cups of coffee this morning if you promise to not stay up so late studying tonight” she said with a grin, walking out into the kitchen.

Logan followed behind her, the sounds of a familiar song filling his ears as he stepped into the kitchen alongside his mother.

‘-my destiny in quite a similar way. The history book on the shelf, is always repeating itself…’

“Waterloo? You couldn’t have picked a better song?” Logan teased lightly, immediately going to pour himself a cup of coffee.

Natalie turned her head around from where she was sitting at the kitchen bench “Excuse you young man, Waterloo is and always has been a hit” she argued back with a light-hearted tone, her voice still a bit rough from sleep..

“No, it was a hit in 1974. The Winner Takes it All is objectively a much better song, if we’re talking ABBA” Logan pointed out. Their musical debates were common in the mornings. It was all routine, his mothers put on a song, Logan came downstairs and critiqued it over coffee, rinse and repeat.

“Sorry honey but I have to agree with Nat on this one” April chimed in, sitting next to her wife “I mean, you can’t win Eurovision with a mediocre song. Besides, The Winner Takes it All doesn’t fit the morning vibe”

Natalie nodded to what her wife said, a tiny strand of her hair falling out of the tight bun it was held in “Very true. And really if we’re going to talk better ABBA songs, I’d consider Hole in Your Soul over any other song any day”

April put a hand over her heart in a dramatic fashion “Whoa hold on a second, you’re taking Hole in Your Soul over The Visitors? Now that’s crazy...”

‘-couldn't escape if I wanted to, Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you…’

Logan smiled a little to himself as his mothers continued to playfully bicker over ABBA. He took a sip of his coffee, drinking slowly so he didn’t burn his tongue.

His mothers had known each other for years, but for all Logan knew they could have known each other forever. He had never met two people who were closer than they were. They met in their sophomore year of high school, and Natalie proposed when they were both twenty-two, back in 1999. Of course, they couldn’t actually get married until about sixteen years later, for obvious reasons. Logan was ten at the time, he still remembered the wedding, and how much his mothers had smiled all throughout the ceremony. He was sure if he dug around in his closet a bit he could find the little black suit and tie he had worn, all dusty and stiff with seven years of no wear.

Logan eventually finished his coffee and put it down on the bench, filling his cup up again, slowly and carefully so as to not spill a single drop. Natalie looked over at Logan, not mentioning the second cup as it was merely routine for all of them by now “What’s on the agenda today Lo?”

Logan hummed, taking a sip of his coffee before speaking “I have a science project to wrap up, and then I might stay late to finish up my English essay in the common area”

“Why don’t you just come home and finish it?” April asked, tilting her head to the side.

“If I come straight home you’ll spend all the time I spend on work trying to pull me away from it, and I can’t risk that sort of distraction,” Logan answered.

April scoffed “Oh please, it’s probably not due for another month, you’re far too organised”

Natalie nodded in agreement “Yeah, you certainly didn’t inherit either of your mothers’ tendencies for procrastination”

“Well inherited procrastination or not, I’ll stay late today. What time should I be home by?” Logan asked, grabbing an apple out of the fruit bowl next to him on the counter, intending on taking it for breakfast even though he knew the chances of being able to leave the house without first eating a proper meal were slim.

“Hmm how about you be home by… now. And ditch school. And we can do something fun as a family and have a together day” April suggested, tilting her head to the side with a crooked smile.

“As tempting as that sounds-“ Logan began in a way that sounded like he wasn’t tempted in the slightest “I have a perfect attendance to uphold, and besides, I promised Virgil that I’d meet up with him to help proof read a paper for him”

Natalie sighed heavily, her shoulders slouching in an melodramatic disappointment “Oh dearest Logan, always working, never enough time for his boring old mothers”

Logan rolled his eyes in amusement, tucking the apple away in his bag to save for his walk to school “Look, tomorrow’s Saturday, we’re all free all day so we can have a together day then; we’ll do whatever you want. How does that sound?”

“I thought you had to tutor on Saturdays?” April pointed out.

“The student cancelled, they came down with the flu, or they were out of town, I can’t really remember. Either way, I don’t have to tutor them tomorrow so I’m free” Logan explained.

Both April and Natalie smiled “Well that’s wonderful! Yes, tomorrow it is, and you better not cancel otherwise you will never live it down” April warned.

“Yes mama, I know” Logan said with a fond smile, about to turn to head out the door when Natalie picked up a brown paper bag off of the counter and tossed it to him.

“Breakfast” She said simply “Eat it or I’ll come down to the school and tell them you have a doctors appointment and-“ she gasped dramatically for effect” “-force you to skip school!”

“Yes ma” Logan said, his tone exasperated but downplayed by his smile. “Love you Lo, have a good day” “You too ma” “And me?” “Yes mama, and you” “Bye Lo, have fun at school, do not work too hard today” “Goodbye”

And with that, Logan was out the door. The walk to school wasn’t a long one, and though Logan was perfectly capable of just driving to school, he enjoyed going by foot. It was good exercise and he lived on the brink between suburb and nature, so it was nice to hear the birds and see the green of his surroundings in the mornings, it helped to wake him up.

His actual school was a lot less lively than its surroundings, but that didn’t bother Logan all that much. He enjoyed school, which some people found strange, but didn’t everyone enjoy the things that they excelled at?

He walked into first period with his arms heavy with books and his bag heavy with homework, either to be handed in early or to bring up questions about some aspect of the assignment. First period English went smoothly, he handed in his annotation homework, made good progress on analysing the text they were studying (which they weren’t due to start analysing until next week, Logan just liked to get a head start), and engaged in a friendly debate about the textual meaning behind the piece they were studying, which always brought his mood up, especially considering he always had a tendency to win said debates.

Second period algebra was just as simple for him, writing examples on the board, getting extension work halfway through the class once he had finished all the other material, making notes and areas for improvement. He studied in the library during his morning break and then went straight back in for a physics class in third period.

Everything went pretty well, until fourth period biology, where he hit a small bump in the road.

The first half of the period went well, with Logan handing in one of his projects a week early, as he usually did. Although just as he was packing up to leave, his biology teacher called him up to the front, his project folder open on his desk, “All of your work is exceptional, as always Mr Sanders, however you seem to have missed a small part of the assignment”

Logan was immensely proud of his project. They had been tasked with identifying one common plant that grew in the area, and giving a detailed description on its properties, environment, cellular makeup, evolution over its existence and the like. Logan had taken great care to include every detail, so what could he possibly have missed? “Oh, my apologies sir, I wasn’t aware. I had checked and double checked my project against the instruction guide last night and found no issue, so I am curious, what did I miss?”

Logan’s biology teacher shook his head “It’s nothing major, and I won’t mark you down for it if you don’t want to go and add that now that you’ve already submitted. I’ll admit, it’s only a small detail. In the instruction guide, at the top of the page, students were asked to include either a picture or a physical example of the plant that they had selected” his teacher said, pulling out the guide and sliding it over to Logan, pointing out the part that had instructed that, “It’s easy to miss, don’t stress about it. Now, I can see that you have chosen stinging nettle, so of course I don’t expect you to go out and pick any-“

“I’ll do it” Logan said abruptly, “My apologies sir, I didn’t know that I had missed something so simple. If it’s alright, I will unsubmit my project now and I’ll bring the completed version with me tomorrow”

“Oh, you really don’t have to-“

“Nonsense, I wouldn’t want my work to be of a substandard quality. I assure you, I will have it done properly by tomorrow. Good afternoon sir” Logan said, quick to pick up his project off of the teachers desk and whisk himself out of the classroom without another word. How on Earth could he have missed something so small? He supposed he would have to put off finishing his essay that the afternoon, opting instead to take the walk into the woods at the edge of town to collect some nettle. It was fine, the essay wasn’t due for another month anyways.

When Logan sat down in the library at lunch, he was thoroughly disturbed. He still could hardly believe that he had missed something so simple, so easy. Completing the task would have taken him five minutes, and not only had he not done it, he had completely skimmed over actually doing it, he didn’t even forget, he just didn’t process the instruction.

Logan barely noticed someone sliding into the seat next to him until they cleared their throat to get his attention.

“You good there bud?” Virgil asked, seeing Logan stare off into the distance with that look in his eyes that he only got when he was overthinking something sparking a bit of concern in the older boy. “Hm? Oh, hello Virgil, yes I am perfectly adequate” Logan replied with a small nod towards his friend.

Virgil and Logan had known each other for twelve years. Twelve long years of what started out as enduring each other’s presence, to accepting it, to enjoying it. They had met in kindergarten when they were put in the same class, and forced to sit together after an argument broke out about who owned which pencil when their stationary got mixed up during arts and craft. It was some tactic to get them to get along, and for a while it didn’t work; arguments broke out every day, and many pencils were snapped in half in the process, but by the end of the year, they had begrudgingly accepted each other as acquaintances rather than enemies, and now, years down the line, that bond had only strengthened.

Virgil and Logan wouldn’t quite consider the other the only friend they had, but they would be stupid to not consider each other best friends.

Which was why Logan’s inner turmoil was more than obvious to Virgil.

“Come on, spit it out, what happened” Virgil said, dropping his bag on the floor next to him with a thud.

“It’s nothing, no time for distractions, we need to proofread your paper” Logan said, trying to grab the essay out of Virgil’s hands, not before Virgil had lifted it up and out of Logan’s reach.

“Nuh uh, nice try. You’re not getting this until you tell me what’s wrong” Virgil said, waving the paper around above Logan’s head, making the shorter boy frown at the thought of the creases the taller would be making to the paper. Much to Logan’s dismay, Virgil had always been freakishly tall, standing at almost 6’4”, towering above Logan who stood at about 5’10”. They had been the same height for most of their earlier school years, but as soon as Virgil hit the seventh grade he shot up, and ever since then he had often used his height to his advantage, and seemed to take much enjoyment out of holding things just out of Logan’s reach.

Logan sighed in annoyance and conceded “Fine. I handed in my biology project early and my professor informed me at the end of class that I had missed an instruction so it was unfinished”

Virgil blinked “And?”

“That’s all” Logan replied simply.

“That’s all?” Virgil echoed, biting back a laugh “Lo that’s no big deal, don’t worry about it. You handed it in early too so it doesn’t matter. You can just unsubmit it and bring the completed one in when it’s ready”

“I know I know, it’s just… I never miss details like that. It was such a small thing, a physical example or a picture, that was all I was missing, and the instruction was right at the top of the page and I just… missed it” Logan said, his tone suggesting that it was some crucial thing that he had skimmed over and not just a small part of his project.

“Y’know what I think Lo? I think you’re overworking yourself” Virgil said, resting his chin in his hands, keeping his paper pinned under his elbow on the table so Logan still couldn’t get to it “You need to take a break, step away from schoolwork for a bit. You’re already like months ahead of everyone else on classwork. It couldn’t hurt to stop for just a little while, clear your head. I mean, no one in a right state of mind freaks out about missing a simple part of their project, do they?”

Logan sighed heavily, wanting to argue but figuring that it was no use, Virgil had always been the stubborn type, and in some way he was correct. “I suppose you’re right, maybe I am in over my head. I’ll try to step back a bit” Virgil smiled, pleased “Good, you need it specs”

“If you say so. Now, you wanted me to proofread your paper?” Virgil raised an eyebrow amusedly and shook his head, to which Logan huffed in annoyance “Certainly your work doesn’t count as my work, I’m simply going to proofread it-“

“Nope, you’re taking a well-deserved break and that includes all forms of work including proofreading. It’s in the fine print of our agreement, and I would recommend you read it but I’m sure that counts as some kind of proofreading so no, don’t do that” Virgil said, snickering at his own joke.

Logan just rolled his eyes “You are incorrigible”

“You’re very welcome L”

The two boys sat like that for a while, engaging in a bit of friendly back and forth. It was all familiar for them, after all it wasn’t the first time that Virgil had insisted Logan took a break. He always found some way to overwork himself, through school, personal projects, or anything else that required his attention for extend periods of time. Of course, it’s not as bad as it used to be. Virgil remembered the times when he wouldn’t see Logan at all outside of classrooms for days, or sometimes weeks on end, always too busy studying at the library or finishing the mountains of extra work he had asked for in each subject. He remembered how irritable he always was, how tired he always looked. Over time, things changed, and it was better now, but it always felt like Logan was at risk of falling back into that spiral, constantly teetering on the edge. Virgil wished that Logan could eventually find some way to just step back from reality, even just for a little while, not get so caught up in school.

By the time they were supposed to head off to their last class of the day, both of the boys were in good spirits. A lively conversation mixed with a casual debate usually did wonders to lift their moods, so they both parted ways to their classes with smiles and promises to organise plans together soon.

Logan was feeling better, that little weight on his shoulders felt smaller, everything felt more manageable now that he was no longer so worked up over something so unimportant. He walked into his ancient history class with a lighter feeling in his chest, ready to get the class done and be finished for the day. He sat down in his usual seat, pulled out his notebook and pens, and started taking notes as the class began, writing down the work and answering any questions that the teacher asked. It was all normal and completely usual once more.

Logan often had a habit of getting too into his own head about minor things, especially when it came to matters of academics, something that he took very seriously. What had started out with him doing accelerated math and advanced reading in elementary school had led to him being the top of his year, winning awards for essays he submitted to competitions, and having several, rather persistent college scouts trying to persuade him into submitting an application. Even though he was at a point in his senior year where potential colleges was something that students were beginning to think over, Logan had already planned out his course and top picks for colleges, all of which he was certain he would be accepted to, and his mind was rarely changed. He liked to have things planned out in advance after all. At the very least, he was modest about it. In fact, his mothers seemed to brag more than he did about his numerous achievements. He would always claimed to be embarrassed whenever they started to boast about him, but in reality, he didn’t mind too much; it was nice to be recognized. The end of class rolled around quicker than Logan had expected, the teacher signing off with giving them a hefty homework task to complete over the weekend, leaving students groaning and mumbling in discontent while Logan just jotted it down in his notebook.

After placing his things neatly in his bag and staying back to ask his teacher one question about the homework, he left the classroom, heading towards the school gates. On a normal day he would walk home with Virgil, since he only lived about a five minute walk away from his home, however Virgil was not waiting for him at the gate today. He had messaged him a little while ago, letting him know that he was going to stay back in the library to proofread his paper that they didn’t get to read at lunch with some of the student volunteers there. Logan was very tempted to join him in the library, but he knew Virgil wouldn’t let him stay and would bring up the whole ‘overworking’ thing again, so he kept on walking, past the school gates, onto the street.

At about fifteen minutes into his walk, the lack of the usual conversation he would be having with Virgil began making things a little dull, leaving the occupation of his mind to his thoughts. At any one time Logan was thinking of many things, and this was no exception. He was thinking about how best to start his ancient history homework, if his mothers had brainstormed any weekend plans, what his grade would be on their recent math quiz, a rather tricky chemistry question that had puzzled him for quite some time, and unsurprisingly, his biology project. Even though he tried to ignore it, he couldn’t help that prickly feeling under his skin when he thought about it being handed in incomplete.

Logan stopped in the middle of the path and looked around. A decent distance from him, yet well within his line of sight, he could see the tree line that separated the suburbs from the woods that all the infrastructure was built around. Logan had heard about developers fighting over the woods for a long time, wanting to build apartment blocks, but the land was protected by the government under an environmental act; Logan was pretty sure it was a national park, or at least something of the sort.

He stayed looking at the tree line for a few moment, hesitating on a decision. He knew that Virgil warned him against worrying over the project too much but surely it couldn’t hurt. It shouldn’t take long to find a sample anyways, stinging nettle was rather common around these parts, and taking a short detour was surely better than leaving his biology project unfinished. Without another thought, Logan diverted from the sidewalk and started heading towards the woods. It was a short walk, mostly downhill, so it didn’t take long, and once he passed the tree line, the shade provided by the canopy was a welcome protection from the warm afternoon sun.

The air was cool and damp from the recent summer rains, and the leaf litter crunched softly under his feet as he walked further in, his path illuminated by the few rays of afternoon sun that snuck in through the canopy. Logan took a short moment just to look around and appreciate it all. He had always had a soft spot for nature, ever since he was a small child. His mothers were obsessed with showing him environment documentaries and watching how excited he would get over the pretty plants and cool fauna. Eventually, as he got older, that excitement turned into a genuine passion and curiosity. The natural world was certainly considered to be one of his personal interests.

He was interrupted from his thoughts by a sudden strange feeling that burrowed it’s way into his chest. He didn’t know where it had come from or what exactly the feeling was, all he knew was that suddenly, his body felt a little lighter, and he felt the sudden urge to keep walking forward. For a moment he thought it was like he was being beckoned, but that was an illogical thought, it was just some strange instinct. All thoughts of the strange feeling were forgotten when he finally stumbled upon what he had been looking for; a patch of stinging nettle, well he supposed it could hardly be considered a ‘patch’, as it was arranged in a rather strange manner, growing in a perfectly neat circle on the ground in front of him, with little white flowers blossoming below each leaf. In the middle of the circle sat a smooth stone, with little tufts of moss growing off it. Logan admired it for a few moments, almost like he couldn’t quite take his eyes off of it. The feeling in his chest ached softly, he ignored it.

He thought it was strange, for the nettle to be growing in such a perfect circle like it was. Perhaps someone had come along and planted it like this, or maybe it was some wonderful coincidence. He wasn’t entirely sure, but for some reason it captivated him.

After a minute or two he caught himself getting distracted by his thoughts and snapped himself out of it. He knew collecting a sample of this stuff would be tricky, he didn’t want to get stung, and he didn’t really have the right equipment for the job. He considered turning back and waiting for another day to return when he had something safer to carry the plant with, but quickly dismissed that thought, he was here now, he might as well get it done. Besides, he had told his teacher that it would be completed by tomorrow, and he intended to live up to that claim.

Crouching down, Logan put his hand in the hem at the bottom of his shirt and used it to safely pick a piece of nettle, tearing off a few leaves near the bottom so he could let go of his shirt and hold it by the stem. He observed the piece he had taken, it was adequate, but the leaves were small and the flowers were a little wilted, not the most pristine specimen. With a slight frown, Logan looked back at the circle, and a stem of nettle across from him on the other side of the circle caught his eye; large green leaves, a tall stem, numerous little white flowers, it would do perfectly.

The young man gingerly stepped into the circle, careful not to tread on any of the other bits of nettle, and crouched down inside of it, reaching out to pick the nettle from the base of the stem to avoid getting stung. He smiled a bit, admiring it once it was in his hand as he felt that strange feeling in his chest soar. It would work perfectly, he was sure to get a good mark on his biology project, now that everything was accounted for.

Logan had time for only one more thought, that being that he was suddenly feeling a bit lightheaded, before everything suddenly went dark.

[soophiemoories]

Cushion Cut Lab Grown Engagement Rings: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

It is modern times, after all, that require something truly special: cushion cut lab-grown engagement rings, reflecting not merely the rich history behind diamond cutting but even more so into a peek at a future of sustainable luxury.

A Historical Journey: From Old Mine to Cushion Cut

One of the most unique shapes, the cushion cut diamond gets its pillow-like appearance, its history goes back to the 19th century. Originating as old mine cut, this kind of style surfaced when the diamonds were unearthed primarily through the mines of Brazil. The old mine cut was square with rounded corners and fewer facets, just like other cutting techniques of that period.

Together with the discovery of diamonds in South Africa, the innovation of cutting technology witnessed the growth of the ancient mine cut in what we see today for cushion cuts. It translated into an increase in facets. With this, the diamond got much brighter and more attractive as the taste and preference of diamond consumers evolved. The cushion cut has today the ancient traditional mystique but the sparkle is quite strong enough to rival any cut in the present times.

The Modern Allure of Cushion Cut Diamonds

Cushion cut diamonds have swept the hearts of couples all over the world because they perfectly combine vintage charm and modern sophistication. The cushion cut adds a romantic and beautiful look with a wide, soft rounded edge and square shape, making them very popular for engagement rings. With a generous table width, cushion cut diamonds ensure perfect reflective light and give the viewer a dazzling display of brilliance.

Of course, cushion cut diamonds are very versatile and lend themselves to almost any type of ring setting. Whether is it in a classic solitaire, a vintage halo, or a modern three-stone design, they sparkle in any configuration. This adaptability and classic beauty ensure they remain one of those treasured options for a ring that carries both tradition and personal style.

Benefits of Lab Grown Diamonds to the Environment

As demand for the environmental impact of purchased products increases, more and more consumers are switching to lab grown diamonds, which are considered more environmentally friendly as compared to mined ones. Lab grown diamonds are manufactured in controlled environments that mimic natural diamond-growth conditions and are chemically, physically, and optically indistinguishable from mined diamonds but possess some unique environmental benefits.

Lab-grown diamonds consume much fewer natural resources, causing minimal disturbance to the ecosystem. They do not require the intensive mining procedures that are involved with natural diamonds. This helps save land and cuts down carbon emissions. Sustainable consumption has today emerged as part of modern values, and this would provide a very meaningful choice reflecting the commitment of both partners to the planet and one another.

Cushion cut lab-grown engagement rings are the perfect balance between tradition and innovation. They personify the sense of the bygone era in harmony with modern values of sustainability and responsibility. As a symbol of lastly love, a story which goes beyond the generations gracing it makes these rings perfect for those who are lost in the past and yet live in the future.

A cushion cut lab-grown engagement ring, therefore, celebrates the special bond of love in a piece of jewelery that speaks for elegance from history and promises a sustainable future. Such rings can speak to the timeless and eternal nature of love, as they readily evoke those long-lost aspects of classic beauty with a modern edge.

Conclusion: Legacy of Love

Cushion cut lab-grown engagement rings are more than beautiful pieces of jewelry; they symbolize a heritage of love, bridging between tradition and modernity. By these rings, couples pay homage to rich craftsmanship history and contribute toward a better future for humankind. Indeed, cushion cut lab-grown engagement rings will continue shining as both the symbolism of tradition and innovation.

[bearberrythief]

I have a serious Art Historian answer for this! Basically, it's because a lot of early paleoartists were primarily drawing from existing geologic images to imagine deep time. I work mainly with British and US American sources, so that is what I'm most familiar with, but people all over the place got interested in geology once the concept of geologic time caught on. Geology started to come into vogue and emerge as a distinct field in the late eighteenth century, and this resulted in the development of a new type of landscape painting, what Rebeca Bedell (an important art historian working in the area) calls geologic landscapes. Basically, these are landscape paintings that pay special attention to depicting rocks and geologic processes like erosion, sedimentation, glaciation, earthquakes and for our interests, volcanism. Geologic landscape is a deliberately broad term covering everything from Thomas Cole's 1836 The Oxbow to John Martin's 1851-53 Great Day of His Wrath

Many early geologists were inspired by Alexander von Humboldt's work from his 1799-1804 expedition to South America and got to surveying the areas where they lived, leading to plenty of fossil discoveries along the way. Most geologic landscapes are of ordinary cliffs and mountains and rivers in Europe. However, von Humboldt's work remained highly influential, particularly his 1805 Naturgemälde, a diagram of Chimborazo and Cotopaxi, inactive and active volcanoes in Ecuador.

Plenty of artists and geologists put a little nod to von Humboldt in their work by including a volcano that looks an awful lot like that smoking top in the background of their paintings. Also, several notable volcanic eruptions happened in the early nineteenth century, most notably a volcano in Europe. Vesuvius/Mt Etna erupted in 1822 and six more times before the century closed out. So you have a situation where geologists were already interested in painting volcanoes, and then they got a whole slew of first-hand accounts of one erupting along with renewed public interest in them. Volcanes started popping up in all different kinds of places from the Paris salon's most lauded history paintings to shitty cartoons in newspapers. To that point, volcanoes became a kind of visual shorthand to indicate an active, changing earth. They showed up in art both from genuine scientific interest and because natural disasters are frightening and therefore draw attention.

Volcanoes and stripey sedimentary rock were simple ways to reference the idea of studying the earth, so lots of artists used them. Paleoartists looking for ways to reference the process of fossilization as well as the idea of geologic time drew on that existing visual language of geologic landscapes. At first, paleoartists were more likely to show a big storm in a seascape for many reasons including references to the biblical flood as well as since so many early big finds were aquatic animals. But volcanoes still cropped up pretty regularly. One shows up in Henry De la Beche's cartoon Awful Changes from 1830. (De la Beche was a geologist and paleontologist) Some anxiety about extinction mixing with the volcano there.

The thing to keep in mind with this is that in many cases, especially with early images, the artist and the scientist were the same person. It wasn't that artists were ignoring scientific accuracy for the sake of a picture, it was that they were trying to present the processes they were studying. Even in many cases where a lay artist was hired to illustrate a book, they worked closely with the scientist to ensure accuracy, or they lost that commission.

Paleoart scenes and more broadly pictorial restorations were mostly made for publication alongside books are articles for a lay audience rather than for scientific journals. Images are expensive to print, especially something as complex as a scene with multiple figures and a fully realized landscape, so authors and publishers had to make decisions about what to show. You get a frontispiece and maybe three to six more full-page illustrations if you're lucky, so you gotta make them good, you gotta cram as much as possible into each image, you gotta make the pictures a little spectacular.

Action, storms with lighting and huge waves, big strange-looking creatures, and volcanoes all make for a nice spectacle to go along with an educational text.

So you get to the late nineteenth/early twentieth century and Mesozoic animals, more specifically dinosaurs have a bit of a boost in popularity. Museums, natural history magazines, book publishers all started hiring professional artists to create restorations of dinosaurs. Restrictions to printing images still apply, plus there's a whole catalogue of around a century's worth of paleoart to look back on for inspiration. Artists like Charles Knight were looking at existing paleoart as well as fossil sources to flesh out their paintings, which meant they saw the volcanoes in paleoart as well as in landscape painting.

There's a volcano in the background of Charles Knight's 1897 Leaping Laelaps

and Several in Rudolph Zallinger's 1947 Age of Reptiles Mural in the Yale Peabody Natural History Museum (I could not find an hq image of this one)

Volcanoes were already an established part of depicting geology by the time paleoart became a thing in the early-mid nineteenth century, and since paleontology was not at all distinct from geology at the time, they naturally became part of paleoart as well. They were already part of the established iconography of paleoart by the time the twentieth century came around to the point that volcanoes got picked up as part of the image of the Mesozoic by artists who weren't at all interested in education, but in entertainment. And volcanoes are a spectacle.

TL;DR: Volcanoes started appearing in landscape paintings depicting geologic processes as a result of scientific interest in geology. This carried over into paleoart, along with depictions of sedimentation and the like and stayed around because natural disasters are scary and interesting and hold people's attention. Dinosaurs and volcanoes became linked because scientists both wanted to demonstrate their knowledge of their field and convince the public their field was worth knowing about. Artists who were/are hired to make an attention-grabbing picture rather than a scientifically rigorous one pick up on the more bombastic parts of the established norms of paleoart and here we are.

OK Maybe I'm too much of a scientist or something but like... where did the stereotype that volcanoes are a prehistoric thing come from? Different time periods have different levels of volcanism, but like, the Mesozoic wasn't particularly high or anything, frankly, a lot of volcanic activity that still affects us today was in the Eocene, 10 million years after the Mesozoic ended... where did this "Dinosaurs fight in front of volcanoes" Trope even come from like what there are still volcanoes today y'all know that right

[yeshansarees]

Unveiling Elegance: Yeshan Sarees — Your Destination for Silk and Organza Sarees in Malaysia

In the world of fashion, advantageous garments transcend time and culture, encapsulating classification and way of life in every fold. Among these, sarees stand out as timeless classics, adorning woman with grace and elegance for centuries. In Malaysia, the area cultural vary thrives, the attraction of sarees stays unparalleled. Today, we delve into the realm of two great saree kinds — Silk Sarees and Organza Sarees — and find out how Yeshan Sarees has stop up the epitome of class for saree aficionados at some point of Malaysia.

Silk Sarees: A Testament to Opulence

Silk sarees, with their lustrous sheen and difficult designs, have prolonged been associated with luxurious and grandeur. Originating from ancient India, these sarees are crafted from the exceptional silk fibers, each piece a masterpiece of craftsmanship and heritage. In Malaysia, the region cultural vary flourishes, silk sarees have observed a one of a form neighborhood in wardrobes, adorning women all via festivals, weddings, and fantastic occasions.

Yeshan Sarees, a renowned producer synonymous with incredible and authenticity, affords a mesmerizing sequence of Silk Sarees that captivate the senses. From the timeless class of Kanjivaram silk to the regal splendor of Banarasi silk, each saree in their collection tells a story of way of existence and craftsmanship. Whether you are in search of extraordinary colorings or delicate pastels, Yeshan Sarees offers an array of preferences to swimsuit every fashion and occasion.

What gadgets Yeshan Sarees apart is now no longer genuinely their tremendous designs then again moreover their dedication to quality. Each saree is meticulously handcrafted with the aid of the usage of educated artisans, making positive impeccable detailing and most wonderful finish. With Yeshan Sarees, you do now not in reality put on a saree; you decorate your self in a legacy of type and heritage.

Organza Sarees: The Essence of Ethereal Beauty

Yeshan Sarees’ collection of Organza Saree is a social gathering of femininity and grace. Each saree is a work of art, providing splendid embroidery, sophisticated motifs, and complicated embellishments. Whether it is a subtle floral pattern or a daring geometric design, every and each and every thing is cautiously curated to replicate present day traits at the same time as staying proper to the timeless enchantment of the saree.

What makes Yeshan Sarees’ organza sequence definitely particular is its versatility. Whether you are attending a lavish wedding ceremony ceremony or a modern-day soiree, these sarees effortlessly extend your look, making you the epitome of trend and sophistication. With Yeshan Sarees, you do now not without a doubt put on a saree; you make a statement.

Crafting Memories with Yeshan Sarees

At Yeshan Sarees, we apprehend that choosing the perfect saree is greater than in reality a vogue statement; it is a time out of self-expression and celebration. That’s why we take pleasure in imparting a severa fluctuate of sarees that cater to every and each and every taste, occasion, and personality. From timeless silk sarees to modern-day organza marvels, our series is a testament to our dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and patron satisfaction.

When you pick out Yeshan Sarees, you are no longer in reality investing in a saree; you are investing in a legacy of elegance and tradition. Each saree in our collection is a reflection of our passion for craftsmanship and our dedication to maintaining the rich cultural heritage of sarees. Whether you are a expert saree fanatic or a novice exploring the world of Indian attire, we invite you to embark on a experience of discovery with Yeshan Sarees.

Experience the Elegance Today

In a world the region fashion tendencies come and go, sarees remain eternal. They are no longer actually garments; they are symbols of tradition, culture, and timeless beauty. At Yeshan Sarees, we strive to honor this legacy by using way of offering sarees that are no longer actually stylish alternatively moreover timeless classics. So why wait? Experience the classification of Yeshan Sarees these days and discover out the magic of silk and organza sarees like in no way before.

[traveldmconline]

Discover the Magic of Madame Tussauds Singapore: A Unique Adventure Awaits

A gem of tourism and history, Madame Tussauds Singapore, welcomes tourists on Sentosa Island. This article focuses on the exciting realm of this well-known wax museum. Giving you the inside story of its major draws, historical background, and amazing encounters it provides to visitors worldwide.

Introduction to Madame Tussauds Singapore

Madame Tussauds Singapore is an entertainment and history-dominant tourist attraction that can be found on Sentosa Island. Located in the heart of the area. This article unveils the fascinating realm of the acclaimed wax museum, where one learns about the outstanding attractions, historical background, and exceptional experience presented to visitors worldwide.

The Fascinating History of Madame Tussauds

It was Marie Tussaud, a contemporary French artist who started the wax museum in the 18th century. Her legacy has woven the hearts of millions. Making its way across continents finally led to the launching of Madame Tussauds Singapore. One of the key milestones in the city-state’s tourism industry.

Main Attractions at Madame Tussauds Singapore

Celebrities, famous people, and sports stars have life-size replicas of them displayed in the museum. It’s no longer limited to being next to your favorite stars, but it has become a special kind of experience where you’re able to transform into the same, do whatever they do, and just live out your dream.

Behind the Scenes: The Making of Wax Figures

The craft of each wax figure is a masterpiece and it takes skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. At each stage- from sculpting to make-up- the team aimed at perfection to make the models as real as possible so that the public felt the thrill of seeing the real-life models.

Celebrity Encounters: A-Listers and Historical Figures

You may pass through different walking zones that have celebrity personalities, music, sports stars, and influential individuals. Highlight the pose with legends like Leonardo, Madonna, or even our Singapore founding father, Lee Kuan Yew.

Interactive Experiences at Madame Tussauds

While wax figures are a popular attraction, the museum also offers other types of interactive experiences such as the Singapore Spirit Boat Ride which takes you through Singapore’s history and landmarks as well as the Ultimate Film Star Experience where you get to act alongside Bollywood stars.

The Marvel 4D Cinema Experience

Take part in a 4D show where Marvel superheroes are made alive. Cinema is 3D film technology with wind effects, water effects, heat effects, and snowflake effects, surrounded by scenes with Iron Man, Spider-Man, and other Marvel heroes.

Educational Aspects of Madame Tussauds Singapore

The museum, both entertainment and educational, is also a major attraction. Visitors are taught the biography of real characters, the wax production process, as well as the importance of each person represented.

Events and Special Exhibits at Madame Tussauds Singapore

Madame Tussauds Singapore is a great place to visit not just for first-timers but also for repeat visitors as they have seasonal exhibits and special events all year round. From Halloween spooky specials to cultural fests, there are always ongoing discoveries.

Visitor Information: Tickets, Timings, and Tips

Plan your visit by making sure you are up-to-date with seat pricing, availability of packages (probably discounted), and opening hours. Tips for the best times to visit and tips for making the most of your experience will help you have an authentic experience in this magical realm.

Comparing Madame Tussauds Singapore with Other Locations

Being situated at the center of the global chain, Madame Tussauds Singapore proffers localized and themed galleries for the target local and regional audiences which truly reflect the colorful fabric of the Asian continent.

The Future of Madame Tussauds Singapore

With discoveries every day and the inclusion of new images, the museum is ever-changing. In the future, the plan involves the utilization of more interactive technologies and making the unveiling of new characters regular to always keep things new and engaging.

Personal Experiences and Reviews

Listen to the shoppers who have trodden in the halls of Madame Tussauds Singapore. They show their stories and photos that will attract new visitors with their choice of the most memorable experiences.

Tips for Visiting Madame Tussauds Singapore

Saying from ticket combos with other attractions and the best points to take shots, the tips below will maximize the use of your visit, guaranteeing a mistake-less and pleasurable experience.

The Role of Madame Tussauds in Singapore’s Tourism

It offers one of the many great attractions at Sentosa Island. With the museum being a major attraction to international travelers, it has added to the global reputation of Singapore as a main travel destination.

Madame Tussauds Singapore and Cultural Representation

The museum is emblematic of the multicultural nature of Singapore, exhibiting figures from a range of backgrounds and industries that seek to promote cultural harmony and tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the ticket prices for Madame Tussauds Singapore?

Ticket prices depend on the person’s age, package deal offers, and where you get the ticket whether online or at the entrances. Customarily, we can assume adults would pay SGD 35 to SGD 45, and children’s tickets slightly cheaper. Ensuring you check the company website for the latest offers and prices is the best idea.

Can I take photos inside Madame Tussauds?

You should take photos with the wax figures, but refrain from using flash photography as it may damage the wax figures and disrupt other visitors’ experiences.

Conclusion

It is a wonderful combination of history, culture, and entertainment. Hence it is a major attraction and fits all ages. Whether you are a history buff, pop culture fan, or looking for a fun trip for the whole family, the museum offers a wide variety of things to do and see, ensuring you leave carrying fond memories. Hence, no matter if the experience is real or just a perception. Plunge into the world of life-size figures and find the magic within at Madame Tussauds Singapore.

[spacenutspod]

In 2023, amateur astronomer Dana Patchick was looking through images from the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer archive and discovered a diffuse, circular object in the constellation of Cassiopeia. He found this apparent nebula was interesting because it was bright in the infrared portion of the spectrum, but virtually invisible in the colors of light visible to our eyes. Dana added this item to the database of the Deep Sky Hunters amateur astronomers group, believing it was a planetary nebula – the quiet remnant of stars in mass similar to the sun. He named it PA 30.However, professional astronomers who picked it up from there realized that this object is far more than it first seemed. It is, they now believe, the remnant of a lost supernova observed in 1181. And an extremely rare type at that.The Guest StarIn early August of 1181 CE, a “guest star” appeared in the constellation we now know as Cassiopeia. To the Chinese astronomers of the time, it was known as Chuanshe. They, and Japanese astronomers recorded the appearance of the star and state that it remained visible for 185 days, unmoving with respect to other stars.In 1971, astronomers first realized that this “guest star” was almost certainly a supernova due to how long it remained visible in the night sky. This made the initial observation an extremely rare reporting of a historical supernova.Supernovae are believed to occur, on average, about once per century in galaxies like the Milky Way but, because they may be obscured if they are on the far side of the galaxy and obscured by the heavy dust lanes, not all will be visible to us. Ultimately, this made SN 1181 one of less than a dozen suspected supernovae in recorded history prior to the rise of modern astronomy. And of those, only four had been conclusively tied to an observational remnant. While astronomers are confident that these historical supernovae were indeed supernovae, without having an identified remnant, it is impossible to determine the type of supernovae.Previously, SN 1181 had been potentially associated with a pulsar known as 3C 58, but attempts at determining the age of this object suggested it was far too old to be associated with the Chinese records.PA 30Although PA 30 was initially flagged as a potential planetary nebula, it quickly became apparent that it was anything but.Just a year after its discovery, astronomers examined the object. With planetary nebulae, the central star has shed most of its outer layers resulting in the still extremely hot core of the star being exposed. The radiation from this star will heat the nebula created causing emission lines in the spectra. However, these emission lines were absent in the spectrum of PA 30.Follow-up observations were conducted in 2016. These revealed winds from the central star at “unprecedented” speeds of 16,000 km/sec (5% the speed of light). Emission lines were found from the central star of highly ionized oxygen and carbon but both the central star and nebula lacked hydrogen and helium. The nebula was expanding with speeds of roughly 1,100 km/sec – as much as 100x the expansion speed of a typical planetary nebula.However, these features don’t entirely line up with the expectations for a supernova either. First off, the expansion speed of the nebula was lower than most supernovae ejecta. Second, even in most supernovae, hydrogen and helium should still be present as it is the outer layer of the stars getting blasted off in the explosion.The first attempt to explain this came in 2019. There, astronomers suggested that the supernova was caused by the merger of two white dwarfs which were both already depleted of these lighter elements as they released their atmospheres at the end of their main sequence lifetimes. Specifically, astronomers proposed that this was the merger of a white dwarf with a carbon/oxygen atmosphere with one with an oxygen/neon atmosphere creating an exceptionally rare type of supernova known as a SN Type Iax.This proposition solves both of the problems. The previous loss of the atmospheres explains why hydrogen and helium were not present. Also, this type of supernova does not have as big of a bang as others, explaining the lower than anticipated expansion rate.Further study supported this. Digging deeper into the spectra, the study found that the spectra had higher abundances than anticipated of neon and magnesium, which are the results of carbon fusion. This made PA 30 the only known supernova of this type within our galaxy.The early research suggested that the stellar remnant may have extremely strong magnetic fields that powered the strong winds. However, more recent modeling has suggested the remnant boasts a more modest magnetic field.But was it really associated with SN 1181?AssociationA deeper dive into the historic records certainly makes it seem likely. Records from China and Japan indicate that the star was “in the Kui lunar lodge”, near the “fifth star of Chuanshe“, “beside [the constellation of] Ziwei“, and “near [the constellation of] Wangliang.”Taken together, these descriptions form a series of constraints describing the area in which the supernova remnant should be found. PA 30 falls within it while the other candidate, 3C 58, does not.The locations of potential remnants of SN 1181 compared to the area defined by the constraints provided in historical records (in cyan). From paper by Dr. Schaefer.Furthermore, the same research looked for observations of the central star unwittingly captured in archival photographic plates beginning in 1889. This allowed astronomers to piece together the more recent history of how the star would have faded. Extrapolating backwards from this, astronomers would be able to determine how bright the object should have been in 1181.Again turning to the historical records, SN 1181 is believed to have a peak brightness of magnitude -1.4. This is consistent with how bright PA 30 would have been at that time based on how it has faded.The age of PA 30 was also explored by considering the rate at which the nebula was expanding. Again, the timing lined up quite well with the timing of SN 1181.Ultimately, all signs point to PA 30 as the remnant of SN 1181. This makes it the fifth supernova remnant that has been positively associated with an observation of a supernova within our own galaxy. That proximity will allow the aftermath to be studied in unprecedented detail for this rare type of supernova. The post An Amateur Astronomer Discovered One-of-a-Kind Supernova Remnant appeared first on Universe Today.

[jacksonestrella]

Preserving the Flow: A Water Conservation Crusade

Definition of...

Story.- a fictional narrative shorter than a novel.

Tales.- a usually imaginative narrative of an event.

Science fiction.- fiction dealing principally with the impact of actual or imagined science on society or individuals or having a scientific factor as an essential orienting component.

Once upon a time, there was an earth in chaos and with no water on it. Humans were dying, animals were extinct, and any other single kind of life already disappeared. By this XXIV century, scientists had already carried out many technological advances, including the increase of human longevity and possible safari time travels to the past. Of course, I was an important worker of this scientific society with 294 years, and I was assigned with one crucial mission for the future of humanity, travel to the past and prevent the discovery of immortality, because, even though human beings discover a type of half-immortality, needing only food to survive but not water, people messed up everything polluting and wasting all water on earth, causing the dead of every animal and plant, and, as a consequence, we take off any food supply that was necessary to maintain our half-immortality. 

Afterward, a few minutes before I travel through time to 2023, my mentor and guru Mr. Mark tells me one last phrase before he starves to death: ‘‘ My student, Remember, Human stupidity led to the discovery of a way of deleting water from our diet instead of look after it, and human stupidity led us to the destruction of life, the only solution is travel there and change everything, then, maybe we will develop our hearts and not only our brain.’’ With these words, I was filled with courage and I went to the travel machine to take on responsibility for the water scarcity problem. Subsequently, with only a few hours before going back to the future, I ended up stranded in what seemed to be a world full of life and happiness with a déjà vu, however, it was not time for me to stare there and enjoy it, so, the first thing I did was get together with my 17-year-old self, and once with him, we talk about everything, and a few hours later my younger version promised that he would do everything possible to avoid water pollution and the search for a dirty way of increasing human longevity by changing the natural cycle of things. Finally, with this promise, I went back to the time machine and when I arrived in the present, I noticed that everything changed, happy people, trees everywhere, lots of animals in the streets, and most importantly, a sign in the middle of the city that says: ‘‘Respect and preserve our water, the source of all life.’’ After this, I saw something strange in my body, and with a smile on my face, I started disappearing knowing that my younger version kept the promise of making a beautiful future for everyone.

END.....

Importance of water conservation

Water, a basic necessity for life, plays an essential role in our existence. However, millions of people,children and poor communities, face the reality of water scarcity daily. Furthermore, in regions without rivers, water conservation is indispensable. This essay will highlight the vital importance of water conservation, focusing on these underserved populations and resource-scarce areas.

Water conservation is a critical necessity, especially for those who cannot access clean drinking water. Children and impoverished communities endure significant hardships, often traveling long distances for unclean water sources. This affects their health and hinders access to education. By conserving water resources, we can help alleviate their suffering and offer them a chance at a healthier, more promising future. Additionally, in regions with scarce water resources or those lacking rivers, water conservation is their lifeline. It ensures the sustainability of clean water sources, providing a fair opportunity for survival and development.

In conclusion, the urgency of water conservation is part of our ethical duty to safeguard this crucial resource for life, especially for those struggling due to its scarcity. Water conservation promises to give a brighter future for everyone regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status. By preserving water, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most.

I created this image in Leonardo.ai: https://app.leonardo.ai/ai-gene

REFERENCES:

Definition of story. (2023). En Merriam-Webster Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/story

Definition of. (2023). En Merriam-Webster Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tales

Definition of science fiction. (2023). En Merriam-Webster Dictionary. https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/science%20fiction

[luluswaxingstudious]

The Impact of Hair Removal Services on Beauty and Society

Hair removal treatments have become a game-changing staple in the rapidly developing field of beauty and self-care. Hair removal has come a long way from its ancient roots to present day, with a plethora of solutions available to help you attain silky, hair-free skin. In this article, we'll look at how and why hair removal services have developed into standard components of many women's self-care regimens.

Hair removal is an age-old practise, with varying procedures being used by different cultures from all over the world. Hair removal was connected with cleanliness and beauty in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, leading to the use of pumice stones, tweezers fashioned from seashells, and even early kinds of depilatory lotions. These techniques may have been rudimentary, but they sowed the seeds for a universal demand for flawless skin.

The Art and Science of Today's Hair Removal Methods

Both scientific discoveries and a better understanding of skincare have contributed to the amazing improvements in hair removal treatments seen in the 21st century. Common approaches include:

Primarily, shaving is one of the oldest techniques, but it has been modernised with the development of better razors and lubricating shaving lotions. The benefits are almost instant, but the regrowth is swift and frequently painful.Waxing Hair Removal Service has been pretty good.

Second, waxing is a time-tested practise that has been improved upon over the years thanks to new waxes and Calgary Waxing techniques. This approach is more effective than either strip wax or hard wax, which just removes the hair off the surface, at best.

Third, modern depilatory lotions dissolve the protein structure of hair, making removal easier. While the chemicals are handy, they may cause skin irritation in some people.

The Effects of Hair-Removal Services on People's Lives, Beyond Their Aesthetic Values

The benefits of hair removal procedures extend well beyond a just cosmetic makeover. A person's sense of security and assurance may grow as a result. People who have smooth skin often report feeling happier and more confident in themselves. Sugar Waxing Calgary has the finest results.

Additionally, hair removal can enhance sanitary conditions. It is especially vital to have smooth, hairless skin in intimate regions since it is simpler to keep clean.Waxing Services Calgary will always help you.

Seeking the Appropriate Service via Customization and Expertise

Your pain threshold, hair removal goals, and skin type all play a role in determining which hair removal method is best for you. If you want advice on which procedure will work best for your skin, as well as assurance that it will be done safely and effectively, consulting a skilled aesthetician or practitioner is essential. You can find the finest Waxing Service near Me.

In conclusion, the procedures used for removing unwanted hair have gone a long way from their antiquated roots. The wide variety of methods means that people may choose one that works best for them and their hair. These treatments can help you achieve smoother, more confident skin in a variety of ways, whether you like the speed and efficiency of shaving, the durability of waxing, the accuracy of laser therapy, or the permanency of electrolysis. Taking use of these possibilities is about more than simply looking good; it's also about feeling good and being at ease in one's own skin.

[ainews]

A massive lock and sharp beef were recently discovered in a lake near a small town in northern England.

The lock, which is believed to be from the 16th century, was found by a local fisherman while out on a routine fishing trip. The lock was in remarkable condition, and it was the largest of its kind that has ever been discovered.

The sharp beef, which is an ancient type of blade weapon, was also found in the lake. This type of weapon is believed to date back to the Iron Age and is thought to have been used for hunting. The blade was in excellent condition and experts believe it could have been used as recently as the 1500s.

Local historians are excited about the discoveries, which they believe could provide new insights into the area's history. The artifacts are now being examined by experts, and it is hoped that they can shed light on how the area has changed over time.

It is not yet known where the lock and sharp beef originated from, but it is likely that they were left in the lake by a previous inhabitant. The discoveries are a reminder that the past is always present, and can reveal interesting details about an area's history.

[blueiscoool]

Mycenaean Bronze Swords Uncovered in Greek Tomb

Three bronze swords dating back to the Mycenaean civilization were discovered recently near the city of Aegio, in the Peloponnese. The swords, among other finds, were found in an ancient tomb, dating back to the 12th to 11th century BC.

Excavations on the Trapeza plateau, eight kilometers southwest of Aegio, brought to light valuable offerings and bronze swords, among other items.

The site has been identified as Rypes, a city that flourished in early historical times and participated in the colonization as well, founding Croton, the ancient Greek colony in Magna Graecia, in southern Italy. The excavation was focused on the research of the Mycenaean necropolis, according to the Greek Ministry of Culture.

The necropolis is located over the ancient road that led to the citadel in ancient times. The tombs discovered are chambered, carved into the soft sandy subsoil. They were used for many years during the “first palace” period of the Mycenaean world, during the prosperous times of the great centers of Mycenae, Tiryns and Pylos.

Significant reuse of the tombs dates back to the 12th century BC, when the tombs were repeatedly reopened. They were used in burial customs and complex ritual practices until the end of the Bronze Age, dating to the 11th century BC.

The necropolis excavation yields valuable sets of gifts consisting of vases, numerous seal stones and many kinds of beads. It also uncovered pieces of various materials (glass, faience, gold, and rock crystal).

They were parts of necklaces and golden wreaths in the shape of bucranas, which are trademarks of Mycenaean trade relations with islands in the eastern Aegean and Cyprus. The chamber of tomb 8, investigated this year, is in the shape of a rectangle, presenting a complex stratification.

Mycenaean tomb with swords, amphorae, alabaster

In the first layer of tombs from the 12th century BC, three burials adorned with false-mouth amphorae were investigated. The bones in the older tombs had been removed with respect and great care. They were placed in two superimposed piles at the back of the chamber, touching the walls of the tomb.

At the very top of these excavations, three pieces of clay and an amphora were discovered. Their discovery means these first burials are from the early Mycenaean palace period (14th century BC).

Among the bones and offerings accompanying these ancient burials (among them glass beads, cornaline and a clay horse figurine), an exceptionally well-preserved bronze sword was found. At the base of the pile of bones, two more intact bronze swords were also discovered, with even part of their wooden handles preserved.

The three swords, which belong to different types – Sandars D and E – date back to the heyday of the Mycenaean palace period. The discovery of these weapons is particularly important. Long spears from the same chronological period were found during the excavation in neighboring tombs in the plateau necropolis.

The Trapeza plateau necropolis is distinguished from other necropolises in the Achaia region of the Peloponnese. They emphasize the direct dependence of the local community on the powerful palace centers.

The location of the Mycenaean settlement of Trapeza is still not clear enough, however. During the early cycle of the necropolis, the settlement was probably located on a hill about 100 meters (328 feet) south of the Bank.

The excavation of part of the settlement further from the tombs revealed part of a building, perhaps a mansion. It is a wide rectangular room with a hearth in the center and pottery characteristic of the 17th century BC.

By Theo Ioannou.

[floriannas]

What Exactly Gothic Is

(Let me preface with trigger warnings, because Gothic makes a point of delving into dark themes: murder, abuse, racism, homophobia, incest, ableism, misogyny)

I have seen certain posts about what the definite characteristics of gothic fiction are that, I hate to say...felt either incomplete or inaccurate. And that has bothered me enough to make my own post about, at the very least, my understanding of this genre. 

Some things to get out of the way:

Gothic does not have one fixed definition. It is fluid and nebulous, and while all literature reflects its society, genre changes massively depending on where it was written. Canadian Gothic is not Welsh Gothic is not American Gothic. Victorian Gothic is not contemporary Gothic is not Regency Gothic. Nineteenth century British gothic is often in response to the drastic technological changes of the industrial revolution. Welsh Gothic has a lot of focus on the disenfranchised and the coal mining industry. Where and when your WIP is, and where and when YOU are writing it, is going to define it. 

We cannot talk about Gothic as a genre without talking about the racism that much of it is rooted in. We cannot ignore Charlotte Bronte’s dehumanising description of Bertha Rochester, a creole woman. We cannot ignore that Edward Hyde’s physical description is less ‘white’ than Henry Jekyll’s. We cannot ignore Heathcliff’s identity as a racially ambiguous villain. We cannot ignore just how bigoted in every way Dracula is. We CANNOT ignore the whiteness of much of the ‘feminist’ gothic literature, either. This is something you must be aware of if you're writing Gothic - it is not integral to gothic fiction but as I will explain, the traits of the genre lend themselves to antagonising marginalised groups.

Gothic is not just gothic horror. It can be horror, but it is still a genre in its own right and the horror is not mandatory.  

This post is about gothic as a literary genre. I will not be talking about Ostrogoths, Visigoths, gothic architecture or art, and - for once - I’m not talking about the Goth subculture either, the two actually have almost nothing in common.

Some frequent, though not all required, characteristics of the gothic (this is NOT a checklist. I cannot stress that this is a genre purposefully WITHOUT a clear definition):

Familial trauma - the ending of family lines (the presence of the aristocracy is common in Gothic, this trope perhaps most blatantly depicted in Edgar Allan Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher), hauntings - not necessarily literal but metaphorical. There’s often a secret, or some kind of terrible incident that has been covered up, amongst a family that is inevitably unearthed. Marital trauma is very common - as seen in Jane Eyre with the original ‘madwoman in the attic’, the mystery surrounding the titular character in Rebecca, the secret room of The Bloody Chamber, the murdered husband being literally unearthed in House of America. 

The setting is everything in Gothic. It often has a presence enough that it is a character in its own right. Key things about the setting is that it’s typically old - or at least old enough to have a turbulent history - and typically remote, ‘feral’, in amongst nature and separate from civilisation. The latter is very often executed in a racist and/or xenophobic way in Gothic classics. Think very critically of what is considered ‘civilisation’ and what is not. Dracula being a novel about white Christian Britons being threatened by an Eastern European vampire? Don’t replicate that. You will also see the ‘sublime’ (see below) here, and motifs of decay (which can be linked to the ending of a family line easily!), and themes surrounding imprisonment and escape. Gothic fiction loves pathetic fallacy - whether a storm, fog, rain or bitter cold, the weather is absolutely there to set the tone.

Repression. This can be of a trauma, but repression of sexuality can feature too. I have seen it asserted that homoeroticism is a key component in Gothic, and while it can feature, I would not say entirely agree, for a number of reasons. There is often a focus on ‘taboo’ sexuality, a categorisation which places LGBT people with taboos such as incest (which features often in some forms of Gothic). Homophobic tropes such as the predatory gay villain (e.g. Dracula’s obsession with Jonathan Harker and Mrs Danver’s obsession with Rebecca) are fairly common, and a general treatment of homosexuality as immoral or depraved especially older texts, so let’s not act like it’s always been a LGBT friendly genre. Something either hidden away or repressed that is then discovered is a huge, huge, component to most gothic fiction. 

Misogynistic gender dynamics are often present: the combination of a young, vulnerable and innocent woman with an older male ‘Byronic Hero’ type love interest is common. The Victorian template of ‘bad’, ‘promiscuous’ or otherwise ‘improper’ woman reaching a sticky end is well loved. And then there’s Poe’s sinister obsession with ‘beautiful dead woman’. Don’t forget the intersection of ableism and misogyny with the ‘mad’ women like Bertha Rochester and Miss Havisham (though Eleanor Vance of The Haunting of Hill House is a sympathetic antidote of this trope.) The way women are written is something I’d very much like us to move beyond. 

The sublime: this is everywhere. That something, especially the wilderness, is beautiful and massive enough to be incomprehensible. 

Doubles or doppelgangers. Often as a ‘darker’ reflection of the protagonist - such as the hero and villain having close parallels, or the heroine as a foil to her husband’s mysterious dead first wife. It doesn’t have to exist just in this way, but the motif of the doppelganger is one Gothic fiction likes a lot.

‘Otherness’ or monstrosity. ‘Otherness’ and ‘Othering’ is something that is a crucial part of literary theory - what the narrative deems strange, unfamiliar, not like us, and so most depictions of monsters will also be Othered. Considering how almost all of the time in the Western literary canon this is a vehicle for racism, please think critically. Frankenstein’s monster has a more nuanced approach to what society defines as strange, or monstrous, how monstrosity is created, and self fulfilling prophecies. 

Cultural anxiety. This is by no means unique to Gothic but the genre is shaped by what the society of its creation is afraid of. This - like Frankenstein or The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde - can be scientific advancement and new discoveries we do not yet understand, but the problem arises that for a lot of Western Gothic this has been marginalised groups. 

The Uncanny. As found in various forms of horror - same with the fear of the unknown, but often in Gothic - that something resembles something else enough to recognise at least what it ‘tries’ to be, but not enough for it to be truly familiar. This is a really effective way to make any person, place, or thing unsettling.

I think I’ve covered most of my notes - please take my first bullet point into consideration as this will inevitably be a bit UK centric. The thing about gothic is that it doesn’t really have one fixed meaning, so you have a lot of freedom. Bonus: if you want to read a really good gay feminist Gothic short story, ‘The Resident’ by Carmen Maria Machado is one of the best pieces of fiction, ever. 

[riversofmars]

Rare Pear March - Day 13

Prompt: Social Media

Pairing: Liv Chenka/Helen Sinclair

Rating: T

Summary: While stranded in the 21st Century, Helen has time to get comfortable with her sexuality. Part of the process was gaining confidence on dating apps - until she finds her best friend a match.

Read on AO3 or below

Swipe Right

107 Baker Street was dark and quiet. It was the middle of the night and Helen Sinclair couldn’t sleep. She was still getting used to being back in London and decades on from her own time, the noise of the city had become more intrusive. She missed the low, ever present humming of the TARDIS that usually lulled her into a pleasant state of relaxation and the sound of cars and people out on the street - even at this time of night - kept her awake.

With a groan of annoyance she flicked on the little light on the nightstand. There was no point in trying to sleep, she decided, as she was wide awake and just staring at the ceiling in boredom. She missed the TARDIS more than she would care to admit. She missed the running, the adventure, the excitement. Everything here was so stationary, so utterly mundane and boring.

She picked up the book from her nightstand, which belonged to Tania who lived on the first floor. By now, Helen had borrowed and read just about everything their neighbour had had to offer and she contemplated getting a library card. One thing Tania’s books had certainly been was enlightening. Tania had given her free reign across her book shelf and by the time Helen had made her way through The Colour Purple, The Price of Salt and Tipping the Velvet, she was starting to feel more comfortable in her own skin, probably more so than she ever had before.

She opened the copy of Fun Home and found to her great dismay that she was only a few pages from the end. She sighed in disappointment and settled down to read when a faint buzzing caught her attention. It seemed to stem from the mobile phone that was also sat atop her bedside table - another helpful gift from their neighbour - and Helen picked it up, curious to see what had caused it to buzz.

She unlocked the phone with a swipe of her thumb and found that one of the many apps Tania had loaded onto the phone had sprung up with a new notification. “You have new matches!” The message from Tinder read and Helen raised her eyebrows, surprised. It was another recent discovery. As it seemed they would be spending a considerable amount of time in 21 st century London, and considering her budding confidence in her sexuality, Helen had dared opening up a profile on said dating app. Well “dating” was a bit of a generous term, Tania had laughed and enlightened her as she had helped her set up the profile. But Helen didn’t really mind. She wasn’t really serious about meeting up with anyone, not really, it was just to spread her wings a little. She wanted to see what it would feel like if she spoke to other women, approached them in that way, to practice and gain confidence. She had no ambition to actually date any of them, her interests - if she was being perfectly honest - lay much closer to home, but it was fun, entertaining and gave her a boost of confidence when she found other women were interested in her.

So, with precious little else to do, she opened the app, just to see what kind of propositions she’d find at this time of night. She looked at her messages, some sweet and friendly, a couple forward and crude but she figured it was all part of the experience. She replied to one girl she liked the look of, a petite brunette with a radiant smile and a sweet message to boot, but found that none of the others were really doing it for her. She closed the messages and returned to the screen that offered up other eligible women in her area of the same persuasion. Idly, she started flicking through them again, most of them were a no - the more she thought about it, the more she realised she had a type. She took a deep breath, forcing the image of a certain med-tech from her mind, as she tried to focus on the pictures in front of her.

Then suddenly Helen’s breath caught, she gave a panicked squeak and dropped the phone as if she had burned her hand. It couldn’t be, could it? Helen took a deep breath, her heartbeat thundering in her ears in the quiet of the room as she tried to regain some measure of self control. Perhaps her mind was playing tricks on her, maybe she was seeing things because she had just been thinking about Liv… Gingerly she picked up the phone and examined the picture only to find that she hadn’t been making it up… A picture of Liv Chenka - her best friend and object of all her daydreams - was smiling back at her.

Why did she have a profile on Tinder?! And why would she pop up as a possible match for Helen? It took the linguist a moment to grasp the reality of it. Liv was interested in both men and women, she had plainly stated as much before but Helen had never thought too much about it, not until recently, not until now…  And Helen couldn’t really judge, not when she herself had opened an account… Perhaps Liv was bored too, perhaps she was… but what if she actually had gotten the app with its actual purpose in mind? The very thought made Helen’s head spin and jealousy boil up in her. Her finger hovered over the lovely, smiling picture of her friend as she contemplated her next move.

The way Helen saw it, she had two options: One in which she would completely deny herself any possibility at a romantic relationship with her best friend whom she had admired, cared for and possibly even loved - if she could be bold enough to admit that to herself. And another where she crossed every line friendship and their relationship to date had set, by admitting that she not only cared for her, but also desired her in a very real sense. From there, there were then several options and they largely depended on Liv herself, about the choice she had made in return - or would make, if she hadn’t come across her yet. In all likelihood, Helen would never have to face the consequences of her decision. She didn’t even know if Liv was still using the app and she probably wouldn’t even dare swipe on her… but what if she did?

Helen made the decision in a split-second. What was the worst that could happen? Nothing in all likelihood and if Liv did swipe right? Well… that would open a whole new dilemma… or was it a dilemma? Wasn’t it, in fact, the answer to a question thus far she had been too scared to ask. It would give her the confidence to be sure, the confidence to know she wouldn’t be ruining anything if she took the next step… before she could think any more on it, the phone registered her swipe gesture and the screen lit up with a match. Helen froze, completely in shock. She dropped her phone again and took a deep breath.

Then, perhaps because it was the dead of night, she did something she wouldn’t usually dare in the light of day. She would be able to talk herself out of it, surely, if it came to it, but perhaps she wouldn’t need to, perhaps…

“Fancy seeing you here.” She typed into the message bar and with a surge of confidence and a sly smile she added: “Why don’t you come over to mine?”

There was a moment of silence in which Helen stared at the messages she had sent and slowly, panic started rising inside her as she considered how Liv might react when she woke up to this. Her thoughts were interrupted when suddenly, her name was being shouted down the corridor.

“HELEN?!”

It was unmistakably Liv’s voice! Before Helen could do anything, the door to her bedroom was pushed open without as much as a knock. Liv Chenka stood in the door frame, mobile phone in hand and scowling at her like an angry parent whose child had stayed out till 5am without permission.

“What is this?” The med-tech demanded to know holding her phone out to her.

“Oh that was prompt, I don’t usually get a response as quickly as that!” Helen decided the only way out of this was forward: a joke to lighten the situation and play if off. She gave her a smile that looked far more confident than she felt. “How are you even awake?” It was a fair question, it was gone midnight. Helen only hoped Liv hadn’t woken the Doctor by shouting down the corridor. She could do without him getting involved in this.

“How are you awake?” Liv quipped back accusingly, almost defensive and for a moment, it gave Helen pause. Even in the twilight she could make out the pink of the med-tech’s cheeks. What was she doing up? And why had she stormed into her room? Perhaps Helen was a little delirious from the lack of sleep but she felt a sudden urge to prod and poke her.

“Chatting to hot dates,” the linguist answered with a smirk and Liv’s expression darkened.

“You did that on purpose!” She snapped, seemingly not taking kindly to being teased.

“Maybe,” Helen admitted with a grin, bemused at her reaction. She was beginning to feel more confident. While she couldn’t quite read Liv’s reaction, it certainly wasn’t one of shock or discomfort. Perhaps she thought she was trying to wind her up. That was a safe, comfortable space, that was something Helen could work with.

“How did you even…” Liv gestured towards the phone that rested in Helen’s lap.

“Oh Tania showed it to me, same as you I suspect, really useful, isn’t it?” Helen smiled, then carried on: “In or out, Liv, don’t stay in the doorway.” She didn’t particularly fancy the Doctor walking in on this conversation, regardless of whether it was serious or not. There was a moment in which Liv seemed to be considering whether she ought to simply go back to her room but in the end, she stepped inside and closed the door.

“Did Tania also tell you what this app was for?” Liv challenged as she stepped closer and she sounded quite affronted. “You know that platform isn't actually about finding friends or relationships right?” Helen raised her eyebrows, surprised at how passionately her best friend seemed to feel about the subject and her motives.

“No? What is it for?” The linguist countered innocently, intrigued to see how Liv would respond.

“Well uhhh-” Suddenly the med-tech seemed at a loss for words and stuttered: “It's for... People who…” She blushed and couldn’t get her words out and her reaction surprised Helen. She was also surprised at her own reaction to seeing Liv blush and struggle for words. An odd sense of excitement gripped her as she answered with amusement:

“People who want to hook up?” She questioned and Liv’s face fell.

“YOU KNEW?” She exclaimed.

“Yes, and evidently, so did you,” Helen stated matter-of-factly, trying her best to ignore the way in which her heart seemed to pick up speed as she considered all the ways they could go from here. “So what were you doing swiping right on me?” She challenged, mustering her confidence.

“You swiped right on me too!!” Liv shot back, too quickly and too hurriedly.

“Only to see what you had done first,” Helen reasoned and the med-tech’s reaction reassured her that she had the upper hand in their exchange. She had got her on the back foot and suddenly realised that she quite enjoyed it. She had grown more confident over the past weeks and months, learning to be comfortable in her skin, in a new century, one where she didn’t need to feel ashamed about her sexuality, one where it would be perfectly fine to act on and express those feelings. Particularly when the object of those affections was blushing, stuttering and well within arm’s reach. Perhaps she could finally be brave and take the leap of faith. Slowly, she extricated herself from the covers and got out of bed.

“Well, I was only trying to see what you had done!” Liv launched a feeble defence, watching her with wide eyes, like a deer in headlights. Helen couldn’t help but wonder if she regretted having come here but it seemed like there was no way back now, for either one of them.

“So where does that leave us?” Helen asked softly as she approached Liv slowly, gingerly, like one might sneak towards a wild animal that could bolt at any time. Only, the med-tech seemed rooted to the spot.

“I uhh- I don't know, I-where does it leave us?” She stuttered, clearly flustered, and Helen mustered her best flirty smile, channeling the confidence she had gathered for this very moment.

“Ideally, it leaves me on top of you,” Helen husked words she never would have managed in the light of day but right now, right here, they came almost naturally. She was done pining, worrying, denying herself what she so clearly wanted. She had come to terms with herself and her desires and finally, she was prepared to pursue them, pursue the woman in front of her that stared at her with wide eyes.

“I-” Liv couldn’t speak. She flushed bright red and took a little step back, staring at Helen in shock.

“Is that not… is that not the sort of thing I’m meant to say?” Helen’s confidence faltered for a moment after seeing her retreat. Maybe she had pushed too far, maybe she had read the signs wrong? Her heart sank.

“I… guess so…” The med-tech stuttered and with every passing moment of discomfort between them, Helen’s worries grew.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable, I got a bit carried away and, well, it’s late… maybe I’m a bit delirious…” She cast her eyes down quickly as insecurity tightened its grip on her.

“Right…” Liv mumbled and the linguist looked up again.

“What?” She questioned, unsure whether she had imagined the disappointment she thought she had heard in her voice just then.

“So… did you mean that or are you just… having me on?” The med-tech wasn’t looking at her. She had crossed her arms in front of her chest defensively, her eyes surveying the room, looking anywhere but at her. “Because, you know, if you’re just winding me up, if this is meant to be a joke, it’s not funny…” She huffed.

“Why would you think I-” Helen exclaimed, shocked for a moment before realising her mistake. “I’m sorry, that was my inadequate attempt at flirting, I wasn’t having you on...” She hung her head in regret. The last thing she’d wanted to do was make Liv uncomfortable and feel like she was being made fun of. Particularly when Helen was so utterly serious. Clearly, she hadn’t quite hit the mark if that was how it had come across.

“It wasn’t… inadequate… If you actually were…” Liv mumbled, insecurity evident in her voice.

“Is that something you would… like?” Helen asked tentatively, catching her eyes at last. “Did you like me flirting with you?”

“Well, I-” The linguist’s attention was drawn to Liv’s lips when she bit the bottom one anxiously.

“I’m certainly enjoying it…” Helen stated, gathering her courage again. There was no point in denying it. This was her opportunity and she had to grab it, so she took a cautious step forward, into Liv’s personal space.

“You don’t say…” Liv huffed nervously and the linguist smiled.

“You know what else I would enjoy?” She questioned softly.

“What?” The med-tech asked defensively and looked up to her, just as Helen reached out and took her face in her hands. Liv’s eyes widened in shock, she was about to say something but the linguist didn’t give her the opportunity. She should have done this long ago, she thought, as she leaned down and pressed her lips to Liv’s. There was one moment of doubt, one painful moment in which Helen wasn’t sure whether she had made a mistake or not, but she couldn’t and wouldn’t take it back now. One moment that stretched like an eternity between one heart beat and the next, until sweet relief washed over her when Liv kissed her back. Pure joy spread to every inch of Helen’s body as she grinned against the med-tech’s lips, so soft and inviting and eager in their response. Helen lost herself in the moment, got swept up in it when longing grabbed her. She pushed her tongue inside her mouth to no resistance. Liv groaned into the kiss and dropped her arms at last, she grabbed hold of Helen’s hips and pulled her close, pushing herself into her taller frame.

“You really are serious?” Liv mumbled, awestruck when she pulled back and studied the expression on Helen’s face, seemingly still struggling to grasp the reality of it.

“Evidently,” Helen grinned, brushing her thumbs over her flushed cheeks. “So where does that leave us?” She prompted gently, searching her eyes for a definite answer.

“Preferably, with you on top of me,” Liv smirked sheepishly without missing a beat and pulled Helen into another passionate kiss.

[carnegiemuseumnaturalhistory]

Cities are Not Biological Deserts

by Nicole Heller

Cities are increasingly important in organizing the experience of people and their interactions with nature. In 1950 there were 2.5 billion people on Earth and 30% lived in cities. Today, there are 7.5 billion people and 55% live in cities. By 2050, there will be an estimated 9.5 billion and 68% will live in cities.

Generally, cities are not good places for other critters to live. The abundance of pavement, buildings, traffic, pollution, pesticides, herbicides, and other hazards make cities really hard places for plants and animals to survive and breed. From a conservation science perspective, cities have long been considered dead spaces, or biological deserts. But more recently researchers are paying more attention to nature in cities. One reason for their interest involves people’s need for nature. Study after study confirms the basic biophilia hypothesis, that people want to associate with nature; they are happier and healthier when they are near plants and animals in their daily lives.

Berlin is recognized as a city that works for people and biodiversity due to its high percentage of green space, variety of habitats, and thoughtful regional planning. Photo by Filipe Varela on Unsplash.

Cities have also drawn the attention of researchers because of some really exciting things are happening within their limits, such as growing populations of peregrine falcons , sightings of rare birds using cities parks during annual migrations, and even discoveries of new species not previously known to science. While cities are overall negative for biodiversity, recent research findings raise important questions: Can human cities be good for non-humans too? Can urban wildlife include a broader spectrum of creatures beyond the common city-adapted species like European sparrows, pigeons, and black rats? What about species special or unique to the regions in which cities are located? How can we make cities work for biodiversity?

A few years ago I posed these questions along with colleagues from the Resilient Landscape program at the San Francisco Estuary Institute. We wanted to learn if there were general lessons that could be distilled from recent and ongoing research projects about what kinds of species can benefit from cities and if so how might city planners utilize this information to prioritize actions that would help cities contribute positively to the resilience of regional biodiversity, or at least do more to diminish the negative impacts.

Earlier this year, some of our findings were published open source in the journal Bioscience, The Biological Deserts Fallacy: Cities in Their Landscapes Contribute More than We Think to Regional Biodiversity, by Erica N Spotswood, Erin E Beller, Robin Grossinger, J Letitia Grenier, Nicole E Heller, Myla F J Aronson.

The study, which includes citations from dozens of regional research projects around the world, identifies five pathways by which cities can help regional biodiversity. “Cities can benefit some species by releasing them from threats in the larger landscape, increasing regional habitat heterogeneity, acting as migratory stopovers, enhancing regional genetic diversity and providing selective forces for species to adapt to future conditions under climate change (e.g., a phenomenon we are calling preadapting species to climate change), and enabling and bolstering public engage­ment and stewardship.”

Each of these pathways is described in greater detail in the study. Four categories of species commonly utilize urban habitat, with varying degrees of success, and the study explores examples of how specific species in specific places demonstrate these five pathways.

Overall, the role of cities in supporting landscape-scale biodiversity is an understudied area of research. As cities continue to grow in number and size, human populations rise, and climate change continues, paying attention to the experience of other critters, and how we can make space for them to survive and thrive in anthropogenic habitats, will be more important than ever. This research identifies opportunities to reconcile cities with biodiversity. Opportunities exist to learn more about the unique resources that cities can provide, which specific types of species can take advantage of these resources, and how this information can be incorporated into city plans for parks and green spaces. The San Francisco Estuary Institute has begun this applied work in their report Making Nature’s City, which presents a science-based framework for increasing biodiversity in cities.

What excites me are possibilities if we really try. For the most part cities have been developed with little or no concern for biodiversity. Often people think that humans and nature just can’t coexist. What if city planners and conservation professionals start applying these lessons from ecology more broadly and work together with citizens to deliberately steward biodiversity in cities? How abundant and rich with diverse life could cities become? How happy would that make humans? I wonder. And I am hopeful.

If you are interested in urban nature, you can help to measure its diversity by participating in the museum’s upcoming City Nature Challenge. You never know what you may find in our city. Our combined observations, coupled with the museum’s collections and records, will provide important benchmarks to help track how local species are doing as the region keeps growing and changing in the 21st century.

Full Article Citation

The Biological Deserts Fallacy: Cities in Their Landscapes Contribute More than We Think to Regional Biodiversity By ERICA N. SPOTSWOOD , ERIN E. BELLER, ROBIN GROSSINGER, J. LETITIA GRENIER, NICOLE E. HELLER, AND MYLA F. J. ARONSON

BioScience, Volume 71, Issue 2, February 2021, Pages 148–160, https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biaa155

Nicole Heller is Curator of Anthropocene Studies at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Museum employees are encouraged to blog about their unique experiences working at the museum.