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💜 Levi Week Day 2 💜
Hello! This is my official debut 😮 and submission for Levi Week Day 2: Proposal @levievent
Pairing: Postwar!Levi x f!reader
Wk: 2.5k
No warnings - just fluff 💚
Your hands shake as the nurse leads you to a room tucked away on the far left end of the hallway. Deep breaths do little to quell your nerves as you consider the time and distance between you and the man waiting on the other side of the heavy wooden door. .
Eleven months. Eleven months and an entire war.
A lot has changed for you in that time and you weren't even involved in the struggle against Eren Yeager and his genocidal plan. You can't imagine how things have changed for Levi. How his feelings may have changed. The thought makes the knot in your stomach tighter, squeezing oppressively. Your own feelings certainly haven't changed an iota and you know they never will, regardless of the thoughts of the object of them.
Your mild panic is cut short when the nurse knocks and opens the door and you get a view of the man you love for the first time in eleven long months.
He is sitting in a wheelchair facing away from the door and toward the large window at the far side of the room. A tray loaded with a teapot and cups rests on a small table in front of and slightly to his right and you smile at the familiar sight of a cup of the steaming liquid in his hands.
“Mr. Ackerman? You have a visitor.” The nurse squeezes your shoulder before leaving the room.
In front of you, still staring out at the park across the street, Levi scoffs and you can perfectly imagine the eyeroll that you are sure accompanies it. “You can tell Onyonkapon that he doesn't have to babysit me. I can wipe my own ass just fine.”
You begin the slow walk around the bed to the empty armchair next to him. “Oh well that's good to hear. I'll be sure to pass the message along to Onyonkapon next time I see him.”
Levi's head snaps up and over at the sound of your voice and the eye that isn't covered in bandages widens. Your name escapes his mouth in a short, surprised breath. “I thought. . .”
“That I was Onyonkapon?” You tease.
His face twists, “That you were dead.”
“Oh.” You collapse into the chair less gracefully than you had hoped and look over at him, taking in just how much he had lost. Bandages plaster his face from his right eye across his lips and down to his chin. His left cheek bears scars and two fingers are missing from his right hand. His left knee is set in a cast. These physical maladies are disheartening enough to see on their own but you know that emotional and mental scars lie hidden under the surface too. Though there is something visual to those as well. His shoulders hang heavy and his eyes are dull and tired. You can't even begin to fathom the emotional pain and overwhelming loss he must be handling but you want to try to help him shoulder it. You take a deep breath, “Well of course I'm not dead. It would take more than a little rumbling to take me out. I was trained by Humanity's Strongest Soldier after all.”
Levi's eyebrows (well, the one you can see anyway) rise and he watches you from the corner of his eye. “Is that right?”
“Not trained-trained but you know, he taught me some self defense and stuff.”
His voice is deadpan, “And this self defense was meant to keep you safe from titans.”
“No, I think he knew that there wasn't much I could do if I ever faced a titan. That was his territory. That's why he left me behind - so he could take care of the titans and keep me out of their hands. But he taught me self defense to keep me safe from everything else while he was gone.”
Levi's eyes are fixed on a spot on the wall below the window and his jaw is tight as he asks, “And do you resent him? For leaving you behind?”
“I don't think I could resent him if I tried. Besides, he was Humanity's Strongest after all. I knew he could never fully be mine as long as humanity needed him. I understood and accepted that long before I realized I love him.”
The tips of his ears are pink now and you can almost see his pulse thrumming in his throat but he swallows hard and gives another of his infamous scoffs before saying, “Humanity's Strongest? What a ridiculous name. Man's gotta be an arrogant ass to use it.”
“Yeah I thought so too at first.” Levi finally glances toward you, more out of shock than anything else. His face softens as you continue, “But then I got to know him. I saw how deeply he cared about his fellow soldiers, how earnestly he wanted to help the world, and how soft and gentle he could be with those he loved. He was physically strong, yeah. His battle prowess was unmatched. But I think a lot of his true strength came from his grit and his compassion.”
“Yeah well.” Levi knocks an angry fist against his bad leg, “A lot of good all that physical strength did him. I hear he's pretty useless and pathetic now.”
“I haven't heard that at all. People still greatly admire him. And the man I knew didn't care what other people thought of him anyway. He was above it all.”
“He cares what one person thinks.” He looks directly at you for the first time and you feel your blood rush to your face, heart rate picking up. “He wanted to protect her and provide for her. But he was only ever good at being a weapon and now that he can't even do that, he's not sure what he can offer her.”
Dampness graces your cheeks and you realize that Levi's words had made you cry. You swallow thickly and speak through the tears slowly gliding down the contours of your face. “I'm sure he'll figure it out. And I'm sure she doesn't agree that he's useless or pathetic at all.”
“I just. . . . I worry that she deserves better. Better than a physically and emotionally beaten man.”
“Again I'm sure she disagrees. And deserve and want are two different things. And-” your voice breaks, nervous that your next statement is too presumptuous. “And if he feels so strongly for her, wouldn’t he think that she deserves to have what she wants? So, if she wants him, wouldn’t she deserve to have him?
“And if he's not good for her? If he’s a burden?”
Exasperation quickly replaces your sorrow over the words being said, “Will you please stop being so insulting? You're talking about my fiance, you know.”
A soft wheeze erupts from Levi's chest and his eyebrows disappear into his hairline. “I wasn't aware Humanity's Strongest Soldier was engaged.”
You feel your face flush and suddenly feel the urge to look away. You stare at his shoulder, avoiding his eyes. “Okay so he's not engaged yet but-”
“Not yet?” Amusement flushes his features and a spark lights in his eyes.
You take a deep breath. “No, because I haven't asked him to marry me yet.”
“But you plan to?”
“Yes.” Your voice is stronger and more certain than it has been this whole conversation and you are finally able to meet his eyes again.
A smile stretches across his marred lips. “Well you better get a move on then.”
Wordlessly you slide down to the floor and shift until you are kneeling directly in front of him. Your stomach flutters until you meet his gaze once more, unwavering and sure and so warm despite their cool coloring. You find that you can no longer feel nervous and the force of the joy that overtakes you causes the tears to spill from your eyes like a river. You ignore them and reach for Levi's right hand with both of your own. His brow furrows as he studies you but you ignore that too. “Levi, you are-”
“No.”
“No?” Your voice comes out smaller than you intended and your distress must be written all over your face because Levi immediately course-corrects.
“Not no to your proposal, just no to this.” He gestures broadly at you. “We're equals. We should be equals. I don't want you kneeling before me like you're somehow less than me.” The hand trapped between yours tugs upwards. “Just get up here. Please.”
You stand and begin to turn towards your previously abandoned chair but Levi has other plans. His hands grip your waist firmly and gently force you down onto his lap. In your surprise, you nearly smash your skull against his forehead but you catch yourself in time and settle carefully - so as not to press against his cast - with your hands on his shoulders and your legs splayed over either thigh. The position is intimate and cozy and eliminates almost all space between you and the loving gleam in his eyes. “Better,” he says and you were sure his voice is rougher than it had been. “Now, please do proceed.”
“Oh.” You know you need to say something but you can feel his fingers softly kneading into the small of your back, and feel his breath across your cheeks, and you are finding it incredibly difficult to string any kind of coherent thought together. “I. . . I had this whole speech prepared but I can't seem to remember any of it now.” A breathless laugh escapes you and Levi's eyes soften. His good hand moves to cup your face tenderly.
“I just really love you.” You finally manage to blurt out. “I love you more than I have words to express and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. And whatever comes after that.” it is like a dam burst and the words are falling from your mouth faster. “I know we've been separated for a while now but I never once stopped loving you and missing you and I can't bear the thought of missing you any longer. I don't care where we go or what we do - I just want to be with you. If you'll have me.” A nervous laugh slips between your suddenly dry lips when there is no immediate response. “I'm sorry this is so messy and backwards.” You’re rambling now. Nerves taking over. “I don't even have a ring to offer you and I -”
“I have one.”
“. . . Pardon?”
“Left breast pocket of my jacket on the hook by the door.”
Your mouth hangs open like a fish and you blink once, twice, three times before Levi sighs and says, “Are you deaf or just stupid?” The words are harsh but his tone is soft as is the look in his eye and the subtle upwards curve on the left corner of his mouth. “Left breast pocket. Uniform jacket. By the door.” He softly pats the side of your thigh, dangerously close to your rear, encouraging you to get a move on.
You do. Your legs are wobbling and your head is spinning but you manage to make your way over to his jacket where you plunge your hand into the indicated pocket to find two rings. When you pull them out you discover that they are nearly identical. Two perfect simple silver bands but one is thinner with a small diamond set in the center. They’re perfect and you spend so long looking at them that Levi eventually has to pull you back to reality.
“I can’t imagine you got lost in the folds of my jacket.”
You stumble back to him, dazed and so so in love, never taking your eyes off of the rings once. When you get close enough, Levi pulls you into his lap once more. You’re sure he’s looking at you, waiting for some kind of response but you can’t look away from the solid symbol of this incredible man’s love for you.
“How long?” You whisper it and worry for a moment that he won’t know what you mean.
But he does. Of course he does. “I bought them before the Scouts left for Marley. Before I. . . Before I left you.” There is heartbreak in his tone but you find that your own heart is soring.
“You knew even that far back?”
Levi sighs your name and gently cups your jaw once more. “I think, deep down, I knew from the moment I met you. I was just too stubborn and stupid to figure it out sooner. Part of my soul always craved you” He pauses, searching your eyes. “It’s part of the reason I left you behind. It was dangerous and I couldn’t bear the thought of you being harmed. I thought you’d be safer. I was wrong. Forgive me”
“Oh Levi,” You cup his jaw on the opposite side that his hand rests on your own face and press your forehead against his. “There is nothing to forgive.”
“You’re too good to me.” His voice is low and almost husky and it makes you shiver a little in his arms.
You smile, “Well, it seems I’ve finally found something I can best you in: Being good to you. For you are far too hard on yourself.”
“I’d be honored to spend the rest of my life losing to you.”
“You better put that ring on my finger then.”
You lean in to kiss him but he pulls back just enough to look in your eyes properly. “No can do.” He smirks at the outrage creeping on your face.”You never asked me, you see.”
You open your mouth to protest but he cuts you off. “You said wonderful, amazing things that I am going to dream about for the rest of my life, sure. But you never did actually ask the question. “
You roll your eyes and lean in once more, placing one hand on the curve where his neck meets his shoulder and the other on his injured cheek. “Levi Ackerman, you are the love of my life and the source of my joy. You are everything I ever wanted and I could never imagine that I would get to have you. I want to give my life to you and spend all of my days by your side. Will you please -”
You're cut off by Levi pressing his lips to yours. He kisses you fervently, almost desperately and you laugh into the kiss pulling away after several seconds. His lips follow you, dotting over your cheeks, nose, and jaw. “You didn’t let me finish!” You protest between your giggles.
Levi ceases his barrage of affection and holds your face between two hands. “Yes.” He says simply, and then he kisses you again, sending your heart racing and your mind melting.
You’re so lost in the softness of his lips and eager probing of his tongue that you don’t notice when he pulls one hand away from your face to pluck one abandoned ring off of your lap. You’re still too elated and dizzy from the deep kiss to notice when he grabs your left hand and slips the ring on your fourth finger but once you manage to pull yourself away from him after several long minutes, you realize that the weight now on your finger feels natural, comfortable, perfect. Absolutely perfect. Just like the man beneath you and the life you will build with him.
#posting this is terrifying so please be gentle with me 😅#leviweek24#day 2#levi x reader#levi ackerman#aot#attack on titan#snk#shingeki no kyojin#aot fanfiction#levievent
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Let’s talk Disco. What's in a name?
(And I'm going in. I'm talking linked sources and bullet points and enlarged text for visual ease.)
Specifically, we're talking about the etymology, linguistics, and semiotics behind the names of our two favourite haunted detectives:
Harrier Du Bois and Kim Kitsuragi !
I'm going into first and last names. This is going to be a long one, so bear with me.
Let's start with Harry.
Harrier du Bois.
This is a loaded as fuck name.
Harry is a man, fallible, mortal. Harrier is a role he is fated to step into. A consequence.
The verb harry (harried, harrying) comes from the middle english "harien", "to plunder, ravage, torment, pursue, drag." That in turn comes from old french, "harier:" "to ravage, pillage".
That's our guy!
It also refers to a breed of hunting dog (a scent hound. Bred for pursuit.) that is also noted to be friendly, outgoing, and people oriented.
It further refers to a type of low-flying hawk, the Harrier. It hunts while flying low to the earth in search of small prey. "They are distinctive with long wings, a long narrow tail, the slow and low flight over grasslands and skull peculiarities."
Sound familiar ?? Harry with his long arms, long skinny legs, hovering low and slow over crimes scenes talking about how he's the "law" with his polio jaw? No reaching required... the shape of him is already in the wingspan. Even the flared-pants make sense here. Those are his tail feathers.
So with that in mind, Harrier as:
a verb; someone who harasses, raids, or troubles. That’s Harry to a fucking T. A man who can’t let things lie, who stirs up buried crimes, historical rot, and his own trauma... A man who harrows the land AND himself. The precursor of the hawk. The neglected cockatoo. The fuck-up-atoo.
a dog; loyal but reckless. A creature that pursues, sometimes beyond sense or self-preservation. There's many references in canon of Harry being likened to a dog.
a bird of prey; solitary, watchful, predatory in instinct, but not cruel. Just hungry. And low-flying too-- earthbound despite his name’s aerial aspiration.
YOU - “Wait, what kind of name is 'Harrier'?” KIM KITSURAGI - “It's a wartime name. Revolutionary. The kind mothers give their sons during troubled times. Like 'Undying' or 'Boxer' or 'Ironhide'.” ENDURANCE - It's meant to keep you safe.
So in that sense, Harry is not a man. Not to the world. Not to himself. He’s a harrier. A tool for the pursuit of truth, justice, order, or whatever corpse they’re digging up today, but he doesn’t just chase criminals. He harasses the world for meaning.
Harry has been:
Harassed by grief
Hounded by memory
A raider of the past
A prey animal pretending to be a predator
It’s recursive; the harrier is also the harried. The hound becomes the hunted. You pursue truth so hard you collapse into your own life, and no one calls him Harrier unless it's serious. Harry leaves room to be unpretentious, childish even. Harrier is militarized. It is a role.
This name, Harrier, is his job, his burden, his curse. It was chosen for protection, yet assigned for destruction.
And Du Bois.
I've seen a lot of theorizing how it's so perfect for Harry as a lot of folks think the direct translation is "Harry of the Drink", which inspired me to write this post. "Of the drink" is actually both etymologically and linguistically incorrect, but the poetry is in the mishap. That's what makes it such a massively fucking potent brew.
Bois as in "drink" is a verb from the full word "boire" and in French, they would never use "du" (the conjugation of "de le") in front of a verb. With that in mind, the noun "Bois" is in reference to "forest" or "woods." In old french historically, people who lived near the woods would have this surname.
SO--
Du = contraction of de le = “of the”
Bois = noun, masculine plural of “le bois”
Meaning: wood, woods, or forest
Ergo:
“Du Bois” = “of the woods”, or less literally, “from the forest.”
So bois can mean either:
The noun: wood
The verb form: you drink / I drink (tu bois, je bois)
THIS DOES MATTER !!
Harry is a man who
Hails from the forest (his vast, bountiful, mysterious soul)
Is lost in the forest (falling through the cracks of society, the vastness breaks him open)
Drinks the forest (the Pale. The rot. His passion. Himself.)
Becomes the drink (what was supposed to save him becomes his crutch, vice, and eventual murderer)
His surname sounds like the thing he escaped into. The woods and the bottle. But he is the woods. He is the drink. His deep, forest-hazy soul. He is the haunted house where they meet.
Harry is his name. Harrier is his role.
Du Bois is:
where he was born,
where his mind resides,
his way out.
Kim Kitsuragi
Kim is more tricky than cross referencing the french dictionary. This is all mostly my own speculation guided by research, game knowledge, and what I understand about him as a character.
Kim to me is both the mask, and the mirror, if that makes sense. He’s both what you see, and what you see in yourself, if you’re lucky.
Let's talk etymology and use of the name "Kim"
It's common in Korea (김), Vietnam, and China as a surname.
Also used as a given name in Thai (คิม - Khim)
In the West, it’s also more often a given name (like Kimberly)
I believe the ambiguity is the point. He nor the game ever specifies his ethnic background, really, just that he’s quarter Seolite, and that others read him as foreign in ways that are often hostile or dismissive. Mostly dismissive; think Evrart, Lena, Joyce etc. How many people defaulted to speaking with only Harry and saw Kim as a background token.
Now “Kim” is an extremely adaptable name. It passes, in a way Harry never could. It's also short and blunt. You can’t mispronounce “Kim.” His first name is functional. It doesn't leave room to read him at a passing glance. He could change it, but...
KIM KITSURAGI - "Even if I were to change my name now, upon hearing any syllable that sounds like *kim* in the street, I'd turn to see who was calling me."
Now, Kitsuragi
His last name, "Kitsuragi," is not a real Japanese surname although it sounds like it is, and I know it's confirmed as homage to a character from Evangelion (I haven't watched it, but from what I know, the Kitsuragi woman takes Shinji under her wing in a way that she feels a bit pitiful for him. Shinji is pitiful. So is Harry. But they both contain multitudes.).
So if we talk about what parts make up the name "Kitsuragi," it starts to get extremely interesting and telling of his character.
It sounds like Kisaragi (如月), OR a kitsune + kisaragi fusion.
Kim is extremely fox-coded. Even just consider his bright orange bomber jacket. That's the first tell... red foxes have black boots too! Let's get into it.
So, Kitsune,
In Japanese folklore, a fox spirit. Intelligent, shape-shifting, often tricksters or protectors.
Some stories portray kitsune as loyal companions and others, as illusions.
This makes sense to me as he is a fox in the henhouse of Revachol -- clever, composed, always watching (despite visual impairment -- but that's another conversation) and foxes aren't domestic animals, like dogs. They're forever relegated to the outside. That's his curse.
And Kisaragi (如月),
The second month of the old Chinese lunar calendar. February. The month before the game takes place. A cold, inward time.
Literal meanings attributed to the word include “wearing more clothes” ("kinusuragi," due to the cold), or “renewed garments," or "plants awakening". A season of concealed change.
Kitsu-ragi = A name that sounds real, but isn’t. It’s a crafted surname but loaded with motifs: coldness, reinvention, misdirection, foxlike sharpness, seasonal stillness, and the coming of spring.
I feel it may also relate to the Japanese art of Kintsugi, where they repair pottery with a visible golden lacquer, showing off the damage. Because something damaged can be repaired into something more beautiful than before.
Because of his past, it might not even be his birth name. He lost his parent's at the age of two. He may not have had any papers.
Kitsuragi could be a racialized paper name from the orphanage, a precinct name, or (more likely) a name he gave himself to navigate a system that wouldn’t pronounce or respect the one he was born with. “Kitsuragi” is extremely effective camouflage in a city that flattens difference into decorum or suspicion.
It’s a uniform, and it fits too well-- because he probably tailored it himself. We know Kim can tailor. He tells us that if you choose to bully him.
KIM KITSURAGI - "Yes. And this 'mega-binoclard'/'washed-up TipTop racer' knows how to sew a lapel and center a back vent." The lieutenant raises one eyebrow at you. COMPOSURE - That's why his clothes fit so well...
The name is bespoke. His name also holds syllabic symmetry. Kim Kitsuragi. Kim Kitsuragi. Say it out loud with me:
Kim Kitsuragi is rhythmic: one blunt syllable, then four that flow.
Kim, his blunted identity = a single edged blade.
Kitsuragi, his curated name = a sheathe.
The alliteration also creates an identity that is branded. It's easy to remember but impossible to mistake. It feels like a cop’s name in a procedural: professional, foreign, clean. But just beneath that? It’s too clean. Too curated. Almost like a man who trimmed down every word he didn’t need until only the useful ones remained.
Sounds like our guy, doesn't it?
“Kim Kitsuragi” is a name you say without knowing how much you’re actually misreading it. That’s how racism works in Disco Elysium-- not through overt slurs (though those come too! Fuck you Gary!), but through the way names become containers for assumption.
Kim’s name, in full, carries:
Cultural displacement
Invented belonging
Effortless erasure (No one asks. He doesn’t offer. He's fine with that.)
But he holds power in that too. In a place like Revachol, to choose your name is to take control of your story (think Tommy le Homme, Cindy the Skull, The Cuno). It's a mechanism of Elysium. His name to me doesn't read as history, but strategy, and unlike Harry, who is was constantly finding himself, found too much, and is starting all over... Kim knows who he is. He just doesn't tell you, because the world has shown him that he is not safe as himself.
Now the contrast is also interesting when I line it up like this--we LOVE Kim/Harry because they're both complete opposites but also two sides of the same coin. They go together like all good combo's do. Let's compare their names as a last little treat.
Harrier Du Bois:
Unruly, haunted, almost lyrical.
"Hunter of the Woods."
Too much name to handle.
Born into myth.
Kim Kitsuragi:
Controlled, flowing, sharp.
"Fox of the City."
Just enough name to live.
Written into survival.
Kim's initials are an architecture of his own building. Harry's initials are his written-in spiral.
They don’t just complement each other. They make it possible for each other to finally be legible.
"I DON'T WANT TO BE THIS KIND OF ANIMAL ANYMORE."
They make me fucking crazy. I could even get into how both their names are 5 syllables, and how the alliteration of K.K implies self awareness, duplication (living only a version of yourself) a loop? , and also a self-inflicted barrier. Maybe tomorrow. This took me all day to research and write.
Thank you for coming to my Ted-Talk. Please enjoy my ramblings. I love you Kim and Harry. I love you Disco Elysium world building. Can look under a rock and find lore there. It's actually nuts.
#disco elysium#harry du bois#kim kitsuragi#etymology#kimharry#harrykim#semiotics#disco elysium analysis#linguistics#name symbolism#harrier du bois#character analysis#storytelling#literary meta#worldbuilding#disco elysium meta#writing craft#trauma in fiction#i dont have a writing tag so this will have to go in#my art#the curtains are never just blue....#fucking geniuses worked on this game ill never ever get over it.#think piece
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your themed slang for stex you did in that one post is really interesting could you elaborate on them?
oof yes i love themed slang so much (og post here)
Train slang is not super complex, merely a blending of regular old human culture, real railroad slang, and their own esoteric references. Most rolling stock have a remarkable skillfulness in the art of arguing, and will talk shit to hell and back. As a result, their vernacular is increasingly creative in an effort to really get their points across.
Some examples (including the ones in that post and some more!)
Dries my crown - a steamer saying, referencing the crown sheet that covers the top of the firebox. The crown must have a layer of water on top of it at all times to prevent damage to boiler, and potential implosion. So, saying that something "dries my crown", means it's really irritating to the point of outrage
Keep your tender on - calm down, relax. Another steamer saying
Blow it out your stack - fuck off and leave me alone. Started as a steamer thing and has gradually shifted over to the diesels as a derogative
Chassis - A chassis is the load bearing framework of rolling stock (and many other pieces of machinery). In the context of train slang, it's vaguely sexual? They're about as anatomically correct as barbie dolls and have a limited understanding of sexuality. But that doesn't mean the counterfeit replication of the human mind that makes up the rolling stock psyche can't catcall and talk dirty!
Pumps my pistons - see above
Get out of my cab and it's variations - stop micromanaging me!
Tarblood/coaleater/crummy/hog/scrap/tea kettle/etc. - slurs and name calling. Trains love to insult each other
Rumble - a human term that was co-opted by the rolling stock. Someone is gonna throw down and it's gonna be a big event, let's go watch two idiots beat each other up. Usually references altercations between engines
Less than a hundred miles under you - you're a newbie, you don't have a lot of experience
Wheelslip - In real railroading, wheelslip is a phenomenon where if too much force is applied to the wheels and there is not enough friction, the wheels will turn without there being movement of the train. In train slang, it's the equivalent of saying "butterfingers" when someone drops something or "you good?" when someone trips
Ticking over - not really slang, but more of cultural thing. On a real engine, ticking over is idling. In the musical, tickovers are the set of movements each character does when they're not doing anything specific (Rusty's little arm rotations, CB's salute, Greaseball combing back his hair). In the context of my weird psychological automaton au, it's a visual representation of them processing information. Train stimming, basically.
Oh also, they have a non-verbal sub-language in train form (if one subscribes to the transformers-esque headcanon), which includes brake clenching, whistle/horn variations, metal creaks, and light signals!
#i could talk about train culture all the live long day#ask#anonymous#starlight express#stex#factoanthropology
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DE-GREEN GIFS in photopea — a coloring tutorial by kai at @photopeablr
howdy everyone! i come bearing another gift of a tutorial, as i’ve seen people run into this problem many times of giffing subjects being... incredibly difficult to de-green.
this tutorial requires:
photopea (free online photoshop)
basic giffing knowledge (check out our gif tutorials tag if you need to!)
with all that out of the way, let’s begin!
so first thing’s first, we need to get our gif loaded into photopea for us to start with. here’s a screenshot of my gif after i loaded in all the frames and cropped it to the size i wanted (540x400):
from here, we can start coloring! for those of you who haven’t read my coloring tutorial from a couple years ago, my method is more or less very similar to how it was back then. i still do the layer > adjustment layer > brightening/contrast step (though for this gif, i changed the opacity of the layer to 30%) and the layer > adjustment layer > levels, which i have set to these numbers in the pop up:
and doing all of that leaves us with our gif looking like this:
(i know the difference is very minimal but this tutorial is an entire process, give it a minute lol)
but now we get to the fun part: getting rid of that damn green filter.
in my original coloring tutorial, i used a channel mixer layer because i was following a method similar to this tutorial. while that tutorial is great for yellow-tinted scenes (i still use that method to this day), over the years, i realized that it wasn’t as great for green-tinted gifs. this is how i started to play around with another adjustment layer known as color balance.
color balance does exactly what it sounds like it does: it balances the colors of your gif. since we’re trying to balance out all the green that’s happening in this gif, it makes sense to use this adjustment layer. go to layer > adjustment layer > color balance (visual below):
and you’ll get a pop up similar to the channel mixer adjustment layer, but just a bit different. this part of the tutorial requires for you to play around with this adjustment layer—the settings that you are going to use for any gif you make are gonna be different no matter what you’re giffing, so play around with the different settings to see how they mess with the colors of your gif until you get something that neutralizes the green for the gif you’re working with. for my gif here, these are the settings i used for the shadows, midtones, and highlights:
and in doing so, now my gif looks like this (with a before/after):
we’re only three adjustment layers in and it’s already MUCH better than what we had. color balance tends to do most of the work for us in getting the green filter out, so now we can do the rest of our coloring process (whatever that looks like for you) to finish the gif. here is the fully colored + sharpened gif:
and that’s it! a simple tutorial, but it’s immensely useful when giffing with weird green-toned scenes.
a couple things before i stop this tutorial: in some cases, sometimes you’ll need to combine a color balance layer with a channel mixer layer, but (at least in my gif experience) that’s few and far between. color balance is more or less the only layer i really need to use when trying to get rid of green tones, but sometimes scenes need a little extra touches with the channel mixer layer to help neutralize the gif a bit more so it’s easier to color later on in your coloring process. but, again, those are few and far between.
no matter what you’re giffing, color balance is a great base layer that you can build off of with other adjustment layers and should really help out in making that gross green filter go away!
#photopea#photopea tutorial#photopea gif tutorial#photopea tutorials#coloring tutorial#coloring tutorials#gif tutorials#gif tutorial#*#*kai#*tutorials#resources#usergoose#userheartbreak
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curious of your opinion and sorry if you've already said it, i feel like money is the elephant in the room of AI art discourse. often an underlying assumption of "art is easy money for naturally gifted artists, now i can do their lazy time-wasting job too. it was unfair that they could make money doing a fake job due to their inherent talent that i didn't have." ppl who don't realize they just aren't that into art as an interest. i don't know, that's been my read.
AHAHHAA I'VE SEEN some shockingly bitter commentary about artists spring out of this issue on this site! The most recent one was something like "artists only care because they're going to lose their status and clout". That's such a sad way to look at anything. And also a super online one, haha.
A lot of these types seem to have their closest relationship to artists be: imported media (anime, gacha), indie games (so many moving parts that it may be easy to devalue the visual asset artists; they tend to give more lip service to the writers/programmers/soundtrack composers), or their own work/friends' work, which is a hobby or non-load-bearing side hustle. The latter is the most interesting to me, but their inspirations are pretty far from mine so I haven't gotten to examine them much.
But yeah, "ppl who don't realize they just aren't that into art as an interest" is my read on the large portion. And when I frame it by what I'm worried about-- an incredibly accessible hobby and no-consequence exercise in self-betterment being undercut by even less friction for drooly-lipped instant gratification-- it just reads like they don't really like anyone, themselves included.
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GQ MAGAZINE; SEGMENT
The Coachella-slaying, multi-language-singing, genre-obliterating members of Ateez are quickly becoming load-bearing stars of our global pop universe.

August 15, 2024
The expensive clothing layered onto the smallest frame in the group depicts an almost untouchable image, yet when the youngest member in question turns around it is pure warmth that decorates doll-like features when greeting the photographers. Himari is often referred to as innocence itself - main rapper Mingi calling her 'angel' several times throughout the shoot - due to radiating happiness in an effortless manner, though it reportedly was not always this simple.
Mental health has long been an avoided topic in the industry even amongst increasing hiatus frequencies, so when the maknae was struggling with heavy depression many remained unaware of her predicament. When asked about the impact of having to fight while keeping up an idol image, she explains that: "At times I couldn't even distinguish which one was the real me, the one who was tired of even having to wake up, or the one smiling at Atiny while performing."
"Even when I was genuinely happy felt like acting." She continues, manicured fingers fidgeting with a golden ring. "It was such a terrifying time in my life, but it helped me realize that there was no merit in pretending to be someone else or hiding my true feelings. Anger, pain, joy, fear, there's not one emotion less valuable than the others so now I feel them as they come along."
Seeing the avoidance in eye contact when talking about this topic I apologize profusely thinking that this might not have been the appropriate route, but she simply laughs before gracing me with one of her beloved cat-like smiles. "In truth I'm very shy." She reassures me. "People often see me as this very assured person because of how I am on stage, but in settings like these I tend to be much more introverted than with people I'm acquainted with."
The group is well known for hypnotizing performances high in energy with four members forming the 'Demon Line', adequately named after the specific type of personas they tend to embody on stage, which she happens to be part of. Conversing with me however is indeed a rather timid young woman, despite the dark makeup making her gaze much more piercing, who does not seem to share any commonalities with the siren witnessed by the audience.
Just when our eye opening conversation comes to an end several members come over to their youngest, praising her gorgeous visuals enhanced through the well chosen outfit. Therein lies another charm of this rapidly rising group, their genuine connections to each other. Being around the same people almost every minute of the year can undoubtedly become tiring yet even during the unit shoot between San, Seonghwa, Jongho and Himari, the atmosphere feels more like a regular poolside hangout than work.
While some poses do seem somewhat awkward between friends - such as Seonghwa holding her against his bare chest as he holds a thumb on her bottom lip - their six years together has built a strong sense of trust and comfort. A comfort that resonates as clear as the youngest's laughter while the older members threaten to throw her into the water, Jongho holding her across his shoulders like she weighs next to nothing.
[....]
Unique artistic expression plays a very large part in building an intriguing image around the group. ATEEZ's captain has lately risen to be a fashion icon due to his experimental style, Mingi has created his own brand with the usage of his iconic 'Fix On', and their youngest creates divine ink paintings, some of which have since been placed as permanent expositions in galleries.
The three of them form something known as the 'Producer Line', and are responsible for creating the group's discography. Himari is also an active producer for other artists of various genres, the most notable being SHINee member, Taemin. The latter, recognized as the second Hand of Midas alongside her brother, BTS member Suga, is currently fast asleep on the changing room couch on their manager's shoulder, surrounded by music sheets written for their Coachella performances.
"When you first meet her, she seems very calm and carefree." Yeosang explains while removing the accessories from her hair. "In truth even being a maknae, she takes on very similar responsibilities to our captain. Her studio is practically a second home at this point, that's how much she works. She doesn't even realize it either so either Yunho or I have to come drive her back to the dorm."
It becomes clear through conversations with the members that their rise from small agency trainees to performers desired by multiple music festivals can be attributed to their hard work. Each have their own style, personalities and defining charms, which makes every stage unique. We can certainly look forward to much more success from these talented artists as they continue to mark the industry.
RELATED STORIES FOR GQ

#ateez au#ateez imagines#ateez 9th member#ateez extra member#ateez female member#kpop oc#himarinews♡
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The history of postwar church architecture surely would have been significantly different if it weren’t for two things: Le Corbusier’s Ronchamp chapel and the Second Vatican Council. Both unleashed an unprecedented creativity on the part of architects and church officials with regard to form and layout.
In 2018 photographer Jamie McGregor Smith moved to Vienna and experienced the Wotruba Church, admittedly one of the most fascinating brutalist churches. This experience nurtured his desire to discover more of these kinds of modern churches and to get behind the dichotomy of an anti-modern institution and the modern church architecture. The result is “Sacred Modernity - The Holy Embrace of Modernist Architecture”, recently published by Hatje Cantz. The book collects outstanding examples of modernist church architecture from Germany, Austria, Italy, England and Poland, with each church being presented from inside and out. The impressive selection of buildings shows the ingenious spirit with which architects approached the task: audacious concrete constructions, expressive load-bearing structures and a great variety of plans that also tell of the different liturgical requirements established by the parishes. Beyond obvious examples like Gottfried Böhm’s Neviges Pilgrimage Church or Giovanni Michelucci’s Santa Maria Immacolata Jamie McGregor Smith also photographed a number of little-known gems outside metropolitan areas. The churches are organized along characterizing theological terms, a very interesting approach that adds moments of reflection to a visually stunning book.
With that said “Sacred Modernity” deserves nothing less than an enthusiastic recommendation for anyone fascinated with the multi-sensory experience modern churches are capable of providing. A real treat!
#church architecture#architectural photography#architecture book#jamie mcgregor smith#book#hatje cantz
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Never blogged much about the actual Eva manga, but I wrote down some thoughts while reading, so uh lets do that!
In episode 2 of Evangelion, Shinji kicks off the episode by getting his ass absolutely handed to him by the Angel Sachiel. Just a full on beat down, he is getting figuratively crucified (the literal crucifixion comes later) in this battle. He is about to die, Misato calls out to him...
...and then match cut transition to Shinji in a hospital bed, complete tranquility:
Throughout the rest of the episode, Misato acclimates Shinji to NERV and generally congratulates him for being a hero, who saved them all with his victory. She does this whole little bit taking him to an observation deck to show him the city, the city he 'protected':
And this whole time you as the audience are meant to be shaking the (CRTV) screen going "girl he protected jack shit, he was about to die!". These scenes are disconcerting, not simply congratulatory, because of the directorial choice to hold back what actually happened in the fight till the end of the episode; that Shinij was possessed by the Eva, transformed into a monster just as terrible as the Angel, and devoured it. He looked like this piloting Unit-01:
In the manga, at least - which is how the first arc of the manga ends. The manga does none of this inverted storytelling, instead telling it all straight, while otherwise not really changing many of the details. The Rebuild films did this too by the way - just got rid of the time swap ordering, told it chronologically.
This really bothers me! Because the edit choice is load-bearing; Misato, in episode 2 of the TV show, is lying to Shinji - she is trying to bolster his ego for a cause she herself is just starting to have some real questions about, doubts she is unwilling to tell Shinji because she needs him to pilot. Its even subtly hinted at in her actual (internal) dialogue:
But she never has any explicit moment where she says this; instead, Kuleshov-style, the edit itself tells you. All of her dialogue is infused with mystery, and then with the reveal the entirety of the episode is recontextualized in your mind. You now question Misato's withholding of the truth, because the truth is at the end of the episode; the edit told you it matters. But since this doesn't happen in the manga, when Misato says stuff like this:
Which is the actual last sequence of Volume I, its telling you this matters; this is the culminating moment and so it is imbued with truth. Which makes Misato less complicated, and the sequence less interesting.
This is a general trend in the manga overall - scene-for-scene it has many good moments, but its wider concept of how to structure and communicate the story is extremely workhorse (like most manga are). Which is sad because a huge chunk of Eva's strength is not just the conceptual themes or philosophical dialogue or w/e, but the more aggressive, auteur approach to the presentation of that material. And that isn't just trippy visuals; it goes right down to the directing. The same dialogue put on two characters sitting in a room just doesn't work. (Hell, someone tried that once and I happened to write about it!) So its always a little sad to me that adaptations don't carry that forward; I was frustrated by the Rebuild's refusal to play with that aspect much, and at this point resigned to the manga's unwillingness. I get it, the manga is intentionally more chipper, aimed at a younger audience; its tonally coherent. Just sad for me.
The manga has a lot of good parts, don't read this the wrong way; its more about how pieces of Evangelion that maybe don't stand out as much as the loud stuff often get lost in the shuffle.
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As promised!
This is the 1975 short film «В порту» (“In the Port”).
The plot is basically - kids from all over the world arrive to a sea port, so that they can go to the most famous Soviet camp, Artek. It’s kind of a big deal. But when two foreigners lose their way, two native kids show them around the port instead.
Warning - there’s a very VERY prominent sunset near the end. It’s meant to be calming, but… yeah. I don’t think there’s any fire or explosions, but I can’t guarantee it…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=5TF3Cj1DWj0&pp=ygUN0LIg0L_QvtGA0YLRgw%3D%3D
A short guide about the songs, just so you understand (the names aren’t official):
1 (also the last) - “We Came To the Port Today”, about how cool the ships and the sea and the hustle and bustle are
2 - “The Loaders’ Song”, about, well, loading ships
3 - “The Oil Tanker song”, basically “An oil tanker is with its back to the port, but with its side to the docks”. That’s it. But it’s cool
4 - “The Little Boat” («Катерок», it’s a SPECIAL kind of little boat. Untranslatable.) About the brave little boat, how it traverses waves like a mountain climber and leads big ships after it.
5 - “From Heel to Toe”, just sorta about how “we’ll traverse all the docks, stand around… and go back again!”
6 - “The Cranes”, about how cranes really do look like giant cranes (the birds) that carry things in their beaks
7 - “The “Bear” Timber Carrier”, where a timber carrier ship sings about how it’s got tired of being anchored and standing idle, before being scared by…
8 - “The Lion”, about a lion who was put in the cargo of a Turkish ship and sent to Istanbul
9, and the most beautiful - “Dolphins”, though this one can have many names. First verse (sung by a man) is about how ships are like birds, floating off into the sunset. The second verse (by the girl) is about how there’s a mysterious island in the ocean, but it can only be found by someone who believes in fairytales and can tell them to the others as well. The reprise is how dolphins look at you with their smart eyes and ask you to tell them a fairytale.
Yeah, that’s all? Hope the sunset isn’t much triggering, heh…
Hey, thanks!
Aw. The visuals are fun.
Hah. The songs are pretty literal for the most part, then? I like how unnecessarily dramatic the bit with the oil tanker is.
Well, that got a lot less literal pretty fast. The boat sings now? Brilliant. The children are not amazed enough. Okay, singer bear, yep.
Damn. Poor lion.
Those dolphins' faces disturb me. The song's great, though. It's peaceful. Thank you.
I should be okay with the sunset. Don't love 'em, but they don't much scare me either.
Thanks for this, Minnie.
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one post I will make on the palworld thing is this; even if the AI stuff ends up being false (I have seen one post and the only hard proof it offered was "the eyes and mouth on this guy and that guy are the same"; I've also heard the big post of like "AI art" the creator was using was actually a commentary on a buzzfeed article or something) and there's no moral reason to avoid palworld it's still a very unimaginative "edgy pokemon" concept I just really cannot get over little cartoon bears firing AK47s
this is something that would've showed up in a newgrounds animation where pikachu like killed a bunch of people arbitrarily in the early 2000's and the joke is Lol Pokemon With Gun Commits Incredible Violence essentially that said a distaste for nintendo products is fine and a fair stance to take, nintendo is well on the way to becoming video game disney; but monster crown did this 4 years ago in a much less visually and thematically dissonant way, there are Loads of indie monster trainers these days
I additionally think the pro nintendo lobby is not nearly as powerful as everyone seems to think but that's been a consistent issue since video game discourse began so whatever maybe I'm wrong and nintendo is hiring paid actors to shit on palworld on twitter when, if the rumors are true, they have a perfectly functioning plagarism case Right There
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Btw ALL CRAFTS BENIFIT FROM INCREASING YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF MECHANICAL FORCES AND THE SHAPES OF ENGINEERING.
I grew up with my maternal grandparents visiting every summer with their trailer attatched ( heavy duty, biiig truck needed, deseil, associate the smell with their visits to this day, and the characteristic sound of the idiling engine ) and working with my Engineer ( Computer Science + UI Design, Electrical, HVAC, Boiler operation and troubleshooting, specialization in retrofitting old buildings with large multifloor airflow systems with minimal disturbance to the original structure, later trained to supervise new construction + oversee and assist in the labor of installation on site ) Dad to plan, construct, and install home and barnyard improvements / modifications / upgrades.
Not only were the blocks I played with from age 6 months to 14 years old made from scrap wood with the edges sanded off to make em kiddo safe, I was often Around as Dad and Grandpa were drawing on grid paper, discussing weight distribution, load bearing beams, when a box support is needed, how the square design of a box support is modified and how measurements on paper became the pieces that made a whole heckin chicken coop in one summer. As I got older I was trusted to read off those measurements so no one had to come down off a ladder to check things, and read the tape measure from the bottom and call out appropriate adjustments before a trim line is drawn. Dad goes down, Grandpa goes up, he checks the measurement again and makes his own mark. If they match, they cut. If they don't, they discuss how they made the measurement to troubleshoot why they got different results, and then we did it again to ensure understanding had been reached.
Measure until its consistant, accept human error, accept it happens All The Time, and check things until You Are Certain. THEN trim material.
A similar addage is learned in sewing; measure twice, cut once.
Mathamatics teaches guess and check, a handy principal in fibercrafts of all kinds.
Those scrap blocks I mentioned? Taught me about mechanical forces like gravity, friction, weight distribution across multiple shapes and which shapes built up best without falling over or bracing; all principals I applied later not only in crafting DIY stuff around the house but also within my artistic practice when imagining and arting locations, clothing, and people.
A lot of practical knowledge gets locked behind the barrier of Theoretical Physics ( i.e when its just numbers on paper Theorizing On How A Thing May Work In Real Space ) before an institution will let ya get your brain onto some real instruction. But there's a lotta things you can do to learn these things in your own home, and most are forms of play or creative hobbies.
Near everything you do with your body and brain together benifits both, in skill and theorizing on future intentions as they go from an idea to something others can SEE and sometimes even HOLD IN THEIR HANDS.
I still firmly beleive the ability to idiate upon something until one figures out How To Show It To Someone Else is truely the closest humans get to Actual Magic, and exists somewhere within everything people make or actuate with their physical person. And I think that undefinable Magic is what we call Art. The Arts. Crafting, creative, visual, audio, narrative, culinary, woodworks, masonry, smithing, fiberworks, fabrics, tailoring, and more than I even know to name because the catagory of Things People Imagine And Then Make Real is PRETTY FREAKIN WIDE.
These things are not sperate from the "hard" bodies of study and practice, math used to be considered magical and esoteric, and only became respectable when Accurate Measurement caused less people to die at the Apothocary, birthing the More Respectable Alchemist, and later into just Chemist-- all based on Math; an imagined system applied to the real world, bounded on proven precepts that are applied over and over and over to LITERALLY ANYTHING we can try it on to see If It Still Tracks Or We Missed Something-- thus why Gravity Is A Theory, and why Theory is one of the strongest words in scientific study, physics, and so on; it means It has Survived Years Of Genuine And Strenious Testing, Found Every Way It Was Wrong, And Continue Tweaking And Testing And CALIBRATING Our Imagined Incraments To Measure The World And Think More Accurately About Future Intentions.
Like the practice of all crafts and arts.
I guess this is Art Theory now? 🤷🏼
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Maximize Charm, Minimize Square Footage: Innovative Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces in Noida.

Living large in a small space might seem like an oxymoron, but with a dash of creativity and some clever interior design tricks, your Noida apartment can transform into an oasis of comfort and style. Here at MITS, we specialize in helping you unlock the full potential of your compact abode.
Embrace the Power of Multifunctional Furniture:
Gone are the days of bulky furniture hogging precious real estate. Invest in pieces that serve multiple purposes. Opt for a sofa bed that doubles as a guest room, a coffee table with hidden storage compartments, or a dining table with expandable leaves. Consider ottomans with built-in storage or nesting tables that tuck away neatly when not in use.
Lighten Up with Smart Space-Saving Techniques:
Mirror Magic: Strategically placed mirrors not only reflect light, making your space appear larger, but also create an illusion of depth. Place a large mirror opposite a window to bounce natural light throughout the room.
Folding Wonders: Folding furniture is a lifesaver for small spaces. Invest in a foldable dining table, a wall-mounted ironing board, or even a convertible desk that folds up when not in use.
Verticality is Your Friend: Utilize vertical space to maximize storage. Install floating shelves, bookcases that reach the ceiling, or hanging storage solutions to keep clutter off the floor.
Embrace the Power of Light:
Natural Light is King: Let the Noida sunshine work its magic! Keep windows free of clutter and consider translucent curtains that allow natural light to filter through.
Strategic Lighting: Employ layered lighting to create a sense of spaciousness. Opt for recessed lighting, sconces, and task lighting to illuminate specific areas without overwhelming the room. Consider warm white LED bulbs to create a cozy yet bright atmosphere.
Declutter and Create a Sense of Calm:
Less is More: Declutter ruthlessly! Donate items you no longer need and find clever storage solutions for the essentials. A cluttered space feels instantly smaller.
Soothing Color Palettes: Paint your walls in light, neutral colors. Whites, beiges, and light grays create a sense of airiness and spaciousness. Consider accent walls with calming colors like light blues or greens to add visual interest.
Open Up the Floor Plan:
Embrace Open Floor Plans: If possible, consider knocking down non-load-bearing walls to create a more open and airy feel. Partition spaces with room dividers, curtains, or strategically placed furniture to maintain a sense of separation without sacrificing flow.
Personalize Your Space:
Statement Pieces: Don't be afraid to incorporate a statement piece, like a bold rug or a piece of artwork, to add personality to your space. Just be mindful of the scale and ensure it doesn't overwhelm the room.
Greenery is Good: Plants not only add a touch of life to your space but also act as natural air purifiers. Opt for low-maintenance indoor plants that thrive in small spaces.
Find Inspiration in Noida:
Noida itself can be a source of inspiration. Visit local design stores, art galleries, or even traditional Indian markets to find unique pieces that reflect your personal style and add a touch of local flavor to your space.
Finding the Perfect Interior Design Help in Noida:
At MITS, we understand the challenges and joys of living in a compact space. Our team of experienced and creative interior designers in Noida is here to help you translate your vision into reality. We offer a personalized approach, working closely with you to understand your needs, budget, and style preferences.
So, what are you waiting for? Let MITS help you transform your small space into a haven of functionality and style! Contact us today for a free consultation and discover the possibilities for your Noida home!
#interioresdesign#interiors#interioredesign#interior decorating#designdeinterior#interior accessories#explore
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Best Shaft Alignment in Surat – Gujarat
Shaft alignment is the method to align two or more shafts with each others to within a tolerated margin. In Surat Gujarat, where the manufacturing and processing sector is as powerful as ever, the need for quality shaft alignment services is on the increase. Shaft Alignment Services in Surat; these are vital for textile, chemical, power plant and engineering industries. This is because; even slight misalignments can cause severe process disturbances and economical losses.
Understanding Shaft Alignment
The alignment of two or more shafts so that they are co-linear; i.e in the same straight line, vertically and horizontally Shaft alignment is the process to align two or more shafts with each other to within a tolerated margin. Thus, it is a necessary part of maintenance and machinery. This is important for the smooth running of linked equipment including motors, pumps, compressors, gearboxes and turbines.
Perfect alignment avoids vibration; wear on bearings and seals and premature failure of couplings and other components. Mainstream methods such as Rakes and wheel gauges are very time consuming and of low ranging factor than digital devices. Nowadays, more advanced laser shaft alignment tools enable more precise, fast and repeatable processes.
Importance of Precision Alignment in Surat’s Industries
With Surat’s busy industrial phase, it is all of the more important that machinery keeps running efficiently. Misalignments can result in increased vibration levels, high failure rate and maintenance costs.
Shaft Alignment Services in Surat Gujarat Price
In textile mills and chemical plants for instance, a small misalignment can bring the production line to a halt and cause expensive down time. Companies in Surat can benefit from precision alignment by using Laser Shaft Alignment services, like as improve plant reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and lower overall plant operating costs. So, these advanced services can help companies in Surat to get 1 position.
More Uptime: Being perfectly aligned, there is low downtime of machine breakdowns. And, it increases continuous production and overall productivity.
Longer Component Life: Perfect alignment reduces the load exerted on bearings, seals, and couplings. Thus, this protects your equipment and makes for longer lasting components.
Reduced Energy Use: In line machines run more efficiently; so you’ll see a reduction in energy consumption and lower energy bills.
Lower Maintenance Costs: Less repair and fewer part replacements reduce maintenance costs and less downtime.
Enhanced Quality of Product: Reduced vibration and stable operation offer the better quality product which is less likely to have defects.
Laser Shaft Alignment: The Modern Solution
The laser shaft alignment has changed the way the job is done, it speed up, easier to do, can archive a reference of measurement. They leverage the latest in laser tech for a very accurate method of detecting and realigning shaft positions. It is possible with easy to use software that cleans up the user’s experience.
There are also systems that can measure and record up to five couplings at the same time, this can be useful on complex machine trains. 3D visualization, automatic data logging, and thermal growth compensation are some of the features that also contribute to improved accuracy and reliability.
Choose Shaft Alignment Service in Surat
Laser Tech Solution & Services – Experienced Shaft Alignment services are available through Surat’s well established industrial sector. Top businesses offer onsite service which involves trained technicians armed with the latest laser alignment tools.
These professional assess alignment requirements, make sure installation and foundation is carried out correctly. A broad offering of services are applicable to various types of equipment such as motors, pumps, gearboxes, compressors and turbines. This means; every critical rotating asset can be in its best condition when the peak of performance is required.
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Network Culture
Following is a comment I left on the forums for a course I was taking on Literature and Hypertext. It will no doubt appear a little lacking in context, and it was written on-the-fly. I have long since lost the date this was actually written. The closest I've got is Nov. 16, 2005.
I've seen the WWW, for example, grow from an almost imageless domain to one that has more eye candy than any visual sweet-tooth could ever want. Since my first days on the 'net, way back in the dark ages when some folks still subsisted with terminals that had no graphic capability at all, and all communication was dependant solely on the words, I've seen this bursting freedom come on so quickly, it seems, that a lot of people seem barely able to keep up with the pace. And, as with many new things of this nature, we're reeling, and not always rolling so well with the punches.
The freedom to create and broadcast via various Internet tools, is one that has been relished with gusto by some, and abused horrendously by others. There is a particular quirk about Internet freedom that isn't quite so evident in the offline, waking world, and that is the faceless audience. While offline, there are certain activities one would never dream of engaging in, they are engaged in with much too much relish by some, once the power button is hit, the modem handshake got through, and the browser loaded and ready for bear.
I am in no way a proponent of censorship, but I have seen what amounts to wholesale abuse of freedom of speech, and decent humane behaviour towards others. One day, I might go into more detail about that, but I'm not sure this is the appropriate place or time to lay that sort of dirt out on the carpet. I have seen people treat freedom of expression in a way that leaves me in no doubt that they have no real appreciation of how wondrous a thing it truly is. I have seen this, and worse, done, and the tacit excuse has many times been that people don't often consider that there are people on the other side of the screen, that you're not abusing a Babbage Engine, that the enemy is not faceless or somehow less feeling because that "enemy" cannot be seen.
There are days I've been utterly disgusted with this aspect of the 'net, days where I've been tempted to shut off the box and embrace the joys of being some kind of Luddite, but I am always reminded of the good side of the freedom force: the ability to create unimaginable amounts and types of work from the completely obscure to the utterly mundane, from the surrealistic pillow to the clockwork orange to the esoterically scientific. I am reminded of the fact that this demon box has allowed me to meet some of the best people I'll ever know, allowed me to read some of the best writing I'll ever see, and allowed me to create relationships and creations of my own, that are in turn enjoyed by others and kept them keeping on when netsplits, bad routers, insidious people, and technical frustration have made them want to throw in the towel and retreat to a life of pastoral bliss.
Of course, abuses of any thing, any privilege, any right, any creation, are unfortunate, frustrating, sometimes tragic, sometimes in poor taste, but the Internet has one thing that real life does not always have in situations where one can't choose between thumping one's head against a wall or thumping the tiny-brained jerk next to you - it has an off switch. It may be a right pain in the netherparts at times, but you can get away from it a lot easier than you can get away from Uncle Jackass.
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Truss Options for Touring vs. Permanent Installations: Making the Right Structural Choice
In the world of live production and architectural installations, trussing is far more than just a structural necessity—it's a strategic choice. Whether you’re designing a cutting-edge touring rig for high-end concerts or outfitting a performing arts center with a permanent overhead grid, selecting the appropriate truss system can significantly impact safety, efficiency, visual integrity, and long-term ROI.
This guide compares truss solutions for touring productions versus permanent installations, helping production teams, venue owners, and consultants make informed decisions based on performance demands, aesthetics, safety compliance, and operational needs.

The Purpose of Truss in Modern Production Environments
A truss system functions as the backbone of stage and architectural rigging—supporting lighting arrays, video walls, audio clusters, projection systems, and set pieces. Engineered with geometric precision, most trusses rely on triangular or square lattice frameworks to distribute weight efficiently over long spans while maintaining structural integrity.
But while the core function remains the same, the demands of a mobile touring rig differ sharply from those of a fixed venue. Understanding this distinction is essential to ensuring your system performs reliably under the pressures of touring or the permanence of architectural integration.
Touring Truss Systems: Designed for Mobility and Speed
In fast-paced touring environments, trussing must prioritize lightweight construction, rapid deployment, and transport efficiency.
Key Characteristics:
Material: Primarily high-grade aluminum for optimal strength-to-weight ratio
Connectivity: Tool-less spigot or conical couplers for rapid assembly and disassembly
Modularity: Standardized lengths and corner pieces allow flexibility across different stage designs
Pre-Rig Capability: Fixtures and cabling can be mounted off-site, reducing setup time significantly
Stackability: Touring truss systems are engineered for compact truck pack and minimal footprint
These features are engineered for efficiency without compromising load ratings or safety compliance. Touring rigs must endure repetitive stress—daily assembly and disassembly, transport vibrations, and varying weather conditions—making structural resilience and maintenance accessibility key priorities.
Permanent Truss Installations: Engineered for Longevity and Precision
In contrast, permanent installations demand a focus on architectural integration, load endurance, and aesthetic harmony within the space.
Key Characteristics:
Material: Steel trusses are often preferred for their superior load-bearing capacity and durability
Customization: Fixed truss systems are tailored to venue dimensions, ceiling height, and acoustics
Integration: Often combined with motorized hoists or fly systems for easy servicing and scene changes
Safety Standards: Requires engineering certification, building code compliance, and routine inspections
Commonly used in theaters, convention centers, broadcast studios, houses of worship, and performing arts venues, permanent truss systems are designed not only for function, but also for architectural cohesion. In these environments, form must follow function, and precision installation is critical.
Material Considerations: Aluminum vs. Steel
Aluminum Truss
Excellent for mobile use due to its light weight
Resistant to corrosion—especially beneficial for outdoor applications
Supports moderate load capacities ideal for lighting and AV systems
Easier to handle and store, saving labor costs on touring crews
Steel Truss
Higher load-bearing capabilities for larger fixtures and set pieces
Preferred for permanent architectural integration and outdoor installations
Requires professional treatment to prevent rust over time
Heavier and less suited for mobile applications, but ideal for long-term installations
Load Ratings, Safety, and Compliance
Regardless of application, every truss system must be evaluated for point load, uniform distributed load (UDL), and environmental factors such as wind or seismic activity (for outdoor or rooftop installations).
For touring systems, frequent inspections between setups are standard protocol. For permanent systems, annual third-party inspections and load re-certifications may be required, especially in public venues.
Understanding load distribution—whether a system will support a centralized video wall or evenly spaced lighting—is critical to selecting the right truss profile and material.

Control Systems: Manual vs. Motorized
Permanent setups increasingly rely on motorized hoists or fly systems to allow technical crews to lower truss grids for fixture maintenance, reconfiguration, or safety checks. These systems enhance accessibility, reduce labor intensity, and significantly improve safety by limiting the need for ladders or lifts.
Motorized trusses are an investment, but for high-ceiling venues or multipurpose stages, they deliver unmatched convenience and operational efficiency.
Hybrid Approaches: When Touring Meets Permanent
For some venues—like those hosting rotating exhibitions or semi-annual productions—a hybrid system might offer the best of both worlds. Incorporating modular aluminum trusses into a fixed grid or adding mobile truss towers with motorized lifts allows for both creative flexibility and technical efficiency.
This approach works especially well in event spaces, galleries, or performance halls looking to stay versatile without compromising structure or safety.
Final Take
Whether you're managing a multi-city tour or designing a purpose-built performance space, your truss system should align with your operational model, production demands, and long-term goals. Touring systems deliver speed and agility, while permanent installations promise stability and precision. The right choice not only ensures safety and functionality—it enhances the creative possibilities of the entire production environment. Careful planning, engineering consultation, and investment in quality materials will pay off in every performance or activation that follows. To ensure reliability and long-term value, it’s always wise to purchase your trussing and rigging solutions from a reputable professional shop that understands industry standards and can offer expert support. Whichever direction you choose, build it strong, build it safe—and build it smart.
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Modular Bricks Manufacturers in India: Precision, Strength, and Innovation — Spotlight on Jindal Bricks
In modern construction, consistency, ease of use, and durability are more important than ever. Builders and architects across India are turning to modular bricks manufacturers as their go-to building material, owing to the many practical advantages they offer over traditional bricks. Manufactured with precision engineering, modular bricks enable faster, more efficient construction without compromising on strength or aesthetics. Among the top manufacturers driving this innovation is Jindal Bricks, a company that has become synonymous with quality, sustainability, and expertise.
What are Modular Bricks?
Modular bricks are uniform-sized, precisely shaped bricks that fit together seamlessly, allowing builders to save on mortar and labor during construction. Unlike traditional bricks that can vary slightly in size and shape, modular bricks streamline the entire building process, making them highly efficient for large and small projects alike.
Their uniformity simplifies design and planning — walls go up straighter, courses align perfectly, and surfaces require less plaster. The outcome? Faster completion of projects and a higher-quality finish that looks both professional and visually appealing.
Advantages of Modular Bricks
Consistent Quality: Modular bricks are produced in controlled environments, ensuring uniformity in size, shape, and strength. This consistency greatly reduces waste and allows builders to optimize their work.
Time and Labor Savings: Thanks to their precise dimensions and easy interlocking capability, modular bricks minimize on-site adjustments. Masonry work progresses faster, and with fewer materials needed for mortar and plaster, overall costs decrease.
Structural Integrity: Modular bricks offer excellent compressive strength and are highly durable. They can bear heavy loads, making them a strong choice for multi-story constructions.
Sustainability: Many modular brick manufacturers use eco-friendly manufacturing processes, energy-efficient kilns, and sustainable raw materials — making these bricks a green building choice for eco-conscious builders and homeowners.
Versatile Aesthetics: Modular bricks come in a range of colors and finishes, allowing architects to craft designs that suit both contemporary and traditional styles. Whether you want a smooth minimalist look or a rustic finish, modular bricks offer design freedom without compromise.
Jindal Bricks: A Name You Can Trust
When looking for a modular brick manufacturer who meets all these criteria — and then some — Jindal Bricks is one of India’s most trusted choices. Drawing upon decades of experience, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to produce modular bricks that stand up to rigorous Indian building standards.
Jindal Bricks’ modular bricks reflect the company’s unwavering focus on precision. Every batch is tested for size accuracy, compressive strength, water absorption, and consistency in color and texture. This commitment to quality assurance ensures that every brick — and every structure — built with them is built to last.
Sustainable Manufacturing
Jindal Bricks’ commitment to sustainability is a cornerstone of its success. The company utilizes energy-efficient kilns and responsible clay sourcing to reduce its carbon footprint. By carefully monitoring energy consumption and reusing heat in its manufacturing processes, Jindal Bricks sets an example for environmentally conscious brick-making in India.
Additionally, the durability of Jindal modular bricks means less frequent maintenance and replacement over the life of a building, further reducing environmental impact.
Trusted by Builders and Architects
Jindal Bricks’ reputation for consistent, top-notch products has earned the company the trust of some of the most reputable architects, builders, and property developers across India. From residential villas to commercial complexes and public infrastructure projects, Jindal’s modular bricks can be found in a multitude of iconic structures.
Conclusion
In a rapidly evolving construction landscape, where innovation and sustainability drive material choices, modular bricks manufacturers stand out as a practical and future-focused solution. Choosing a proven manufacturer like Jindal Bricks ensures that every project — big or small — benefits from products that enhance speed, strength, and aesthetics while supporting responsible, green building practices.
For those looking to streamline their next construction project with precision and durability, Jindal Bricks’ modular bricks are undoubtedly the ideal partner for lasting quality.
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