#avalanche extended universe

[patoune-prod]

Avalanche chapitre 71

La dernière prière des Cetras

AO3

Résumé : Aérith n’est pas loin, Zack peut le sentir. Mais ce qui inquiète plus Vincent et Barret, ce serait la proximité de la Calamité. Et de Météore. Et des ennuis.  Surtout des ennuis.

Personnages : Team Avalanche, Team Haut Vent, Tarask (FF9), Kadajenova, Almaz

Tags supplémentaires: Riku: NON, l’équipage du Haut Vent essaye d’être sourd muet aveugle, ils en prennent pleins la vue pourtant, paranormal même pour Avalanche, Tarask a une semaine un peu hallucinante, mais bon, ça fait huit ans que ça dure, urbex archéologique, Tarask sait se faire des amis au premier regard (non), Séphiroth sait se battre de façon mesurée et maîtrisée (non plus), passage en mode bulldozer, restez pas devant, acte de violence envers une calamité extra terrestre

[satashiiwrites]

Choices and Regrets, Epilogue: Aftershocks (complete)

It’s finally done. I don’t know what to do with myself now.

I think I’m going to have a shot of whiskey (aka Writer’s Tears).

Title: Choices and Regrets Fandom: 911, partial fusion of Dark Matter (TV show/Blake Crouch Novel)

Relationship: Evan “Buck” Buckley/Eddie Diaz, Evan “Buck” Buckley/Eddie Diaz/Evan Buckley, and then add a third Buck (Navy Seal! Buck) for some extra spice. Oh and there’s some HenRen.

Warnings: Alternative Universe, canon typical violence, identity fraud which leads to some iffy issues with consent as it’s not who the person thinks it is that they’re sleeping with, kidnapping, character death (not our versions of Buck, Eddie or Christopher and extended firefam), multiple universes and travel between them, butterfly effect, threesome, foursome, Satashii stopped keeping track of who’s hand is where in the sex scenes, oral sex, rimming, anal sex, look…. It’s a sci-fi thriller. We’re going to hand wave all the science and medical stuff and just go with it for the sake of plot. Navy Seal Evan Buckley. Doppelgänger problems (aka there’s an Evil Buck), character bashing (I made Daniel evil too). A dash of mortal peril and fighting your way free…. Means someone is going to get shot. Angst. All the Angst. It gets dark before it gets better. Chapters have specific warnings.

Word Count: 109k

Rating: Explicit (shocker I know)

Summary: If you could go back and change the choices in your life, would you? Would you love the same people, go on the same vacations, have the same career? Or would you have regrets?

After the lightning strike, an unexpected visitor makes Buck question all the choices he’s ever made. From dropping out of the Seals to never making a move on Eddie because the time hasn’t been right. He’s going to get an up close and personal look at what could have been because another version of Buck is focused on taking his choices away from him—including Eddie and Christopher Diaz.

Buck being hit by lightning isn’t what changes things for them. It takes several weeks and something else to shift the mountain of feelings they’ve both been repressing for years to finally break free and allow them both to start moving as everything around them accelerates. 

The avalanche almost kills them both.  

Or maybe it does. 

In this universe, though, it starts on an innocuous Wednesday evening. 

The trauma of having Buck’s heart stop for three minutes and seventeen seconds has caused them both to spend an inordinate amount of time navel-gazing and thinking about their life. Eddie’s protective hackles are still raised, and it’s been weeks, while Buck is starting to feel stifled under his family’s loving attention. 

The lightning strike isn’t the event that causes the unacknowledged friendship stalemate they’ve dug themselves into to fracture. Both of them are too afraid of losing the other to recognize aloud that each other is the most important person in their lives other than their kid. 

Buck’s choice to linger around Eddie and Christopher, of all his family, is about more than comfort. The Diaz house is his safe haven; Eddie will always have his back, and he has Eddie’s.  

It’s the way they are. The way they’ll always be, Buck thinks. His friendship with Eddie is life-defining. Buck can’t imagine his life without Eddie by his side like it’d been in the coma dream. He never wants to be without Eddie again, and Eddie’s absence from the dream has kept him up thinking at night ever since he awoke from his coma. 

It’s not pining if you don’t admit to it, right? You can be so willfully blind to what’s in front of you that you make choices that seem bizarre in retrospect and have your friends and family doubting your mental capacity. Buck clings to Eddie, looking first to him for so long that he doesn’t even realize he’s doing it anymore, much to the frustration of everyone around him. 

Eddie though…. Eddie knows he loves Buck with everything in his soul. Thanks, Frank, for dragging that truth out after he hit rock bottom and could only cling to Buck as his emotions tossed him about like a ship in a hurricane. Buck is the anchor of his sanity. He knows that he’ll ruin the best relationship he’s ever had by wanting too much and needing too much, despite his therapist constantly giving him judgmental looks for declining to talk to Buck about his feelings.  

He’ll take whatever Buck can give him, which must be enough. It’s enough to have Buck in his life, and he can’t risk that—not when he also has Christopher to think of. 

The night the balance tips, the fractures widen, and set off the avalanche of cascading consequences is just another Wednesday night dinner together at the Diaz house.  

The thing about avalanches? The warning signs can all be there, but it only takes seconds to set it off by accident, and you never know when it will happen. 

When is enough, enough?  

Or, does someone set it off on purpose, wanting to change the status quo?

Read completed fic here on AO3

[necromatador]

Below is some basic info and a drawing of each!

Chesslin Ken'ana; Drow Witch. Originally 4th edition D&D. Was originally searching for her lost half-brother to help free him from inherited slavery, showed up later in a different campaign a few years older and now working on her thesis on genius loci for mage college. Has a white-eyed crow familiar named Valdyn who she dresses in tiny sweatervests.

Luk; City Goblin Cleric. Originally Pathfinder 2e playtest. A goblin from an urban underground nest that was taken over by more violent outsider goblins. Luk ran away and tried to find a group that would help him free his home. He's a cleric of Desna, under her aspects of Luck (haha) and Freedom.

Theodosia "Todd" Sylvaine; Shifter Artificer. Originally 4th edition D&D; actually most notably used in FATE's Wild Blue setting. Became an outcast in her hometown after a jaunt into some fey-cursed woods ended up either revealing her werewolf nature or getting her cursed with it. Joined up with the Blue Wardens originally in an attempt to cure herself, but eventually became a top agent. Also known as Warden Mooneyes, and The Bookworm Werewolf.

Salakesh Marivaldi; Half-Orc Bard. Originally 4e D&D. The "adopted" son of the well-to-do Marivaldi merchant family, he's actually the unfavorite bastard son of Lady Marivaldi and her orc stable-hand. To save face, the family lied about fertility issues and nobly adopting an abandoned half-orc. When their first full son was born, Sal was dumped quickly and painted as a troublemaker. When he grew up he volunteered frequently to go on extended travel as a representative of the family so he could escape his home life. He has a passion for cooking, drinking songs, epic poetry, and zweihanders.

Skree; Aarakocra Monk. Originally 5e D&D. Skree was a famous actor in an equally famous theatre troupe until he made the mistake of angering a nobleman who had him blacklisted. In an effort to save his troupe from financial ruin, he negotiated their names clear as long as he left the city and never came back. He is attempting to make a living as an adventurer. It's harder than it looks.

The Scarred One; Vesk Mystic. Originally Starfinder. As a young Vesk, Scar was trapped in a cave during an avalanche on her snowy homeworld of Vesk-7. While stuck there, suffering from hypothermia and severe frostbite, she swears she saw the secret at the center of the universe: a massive field of black devouring the stars and planets alike with a hunger unmatched and eternally unsated. After her rescue, she developed psychic abilities that she trained to use to her benefit.

Pike Deepfisher; Kalo Operative/Mystic. Originally Starfinder. Born to a pair of famous Kalo fashion designers, Pike spent most of his childhood travelling and sickly until it was discovered that he was dangerously allergic in a chemical used in all rebreather technology on the market. Forced to stay at home under the care of nannies, and especially hurt when his younger sister was born and didn't have the same condition, he developed a bit of an attention-seeking drive that led to a life of crime. Eventually he was caught and hired by the head of a mega-corp called Zenith. By day he's a representative of their new line of rebreathers that he can use! By night he does corporate espionage for them. Also he starts dating the adopted son of the head of the company, a Lashunta named Ace.

T'k Threadborne; Thri-Kreen Monk. Originally 4e D&D. A travelling tailor by trade, T'k is terrified of only two things: being eaten and women. While he's not a powerful fighter, he can hold his own. While he someday wants to settle down and start his own family, he has...reservations at the moment.

Shochraos; Dragonborn Barbarian. Originally 4e D&D. Shochraos, or "Raos" as he prefers to go by, used to be a courier until one day he was attacked in the wilderness between towns by some monstrosity. Left scarred both mentally and physically, Raos struggles now with a berserk fury that rears its head whenever he finds himself in trouble.

Harlan; Hengeyokai Assassin. Originally 4e D&D. An Unseelie assassin, Harlan hates all things Seelie. He was captured on a mission outside the Feywild and experimented on by a crazed mage, who succeeded in turning him into a living Dragonlance. When he killed a dragon that was attacking not long after, it merged with him and became a part of him.

Zeruah; Hengeyokai Witch. Originally 4e D&D. The fortune-teller of a travelling circus of hengeyokai, Zeruah was found and rescued by the troupe's owner: Malachi the ferret hengeyokai. Little does he know that this strange fox escaped from a Fomorian who had enslaved and transplanted a cursed eye into them. They fear ever being caught again, and wear intricate eyepatches to both hide the eye and obscure their location from the Formorian.

Shaward P. Sinsinger; Tiefling Paladin. Originally 4e D&D. An orphaned young tiefling in a largely human town, he is a member of the town guard and a devout follower of the goddess of music and fairness. He can't abide lawlessness, but hasn't really had a chance to get out of his sheltered tiny town and experience the world.

[cwarscars]

i bet a lot of peeps think i like heid just because he's a large, imposing older man who has seen war - is muscular, scarred, hairy and savage to that point of sexy. but like, i like him for SO many reasons.

i love that this character is insane and shamelessly sadistic. i love that his brutality extends to a fist in his soldier's faces. i love that he doesn't give a fuck about anyone but himself. i love that his sadism is matched by equal parts masochism ( seriously, he SEVERAL TIMES welcomes a fight with avalanche and co ). i love that i've gotten to explore so many aspects of this character otherwise known as irredeemable with fantastic writers on this site. everything from his own indulgences, to his vices, to his good parts and his bad.

alongside others here - i've gotten to write a character who has been brutal, disgusting, awful, evil. but also, loving, emotional, conflicted. i love that i've gotten to discover heidegger's soft side. his darker than dark side. his prejudices and his reasons for those prejudices. i love that i've gotten to pit him against all kinds of weird and wonderful characters in all kinds of universes.

i love that you guys have given me a chance to explore him. i love that you've been patient with me. i love that you've supported my love of him and my terrible slowness / messy brain. i love that this fictional character has always been something to escape into when life around me isn't looking too hot. i love that i've gotten to explore him with so many of you -

i just - soft hours, bros - thank you all for sticking around and i hope my ooc posts dwindle so i can write a whole lot more.

i love writing heidegger, but i love writing him with you guys more <3

[bitterarcs]

Reno. Was. Down. BAD. Kids and adults were treated as pariahs, croaking left and right, and the prodigal son and president Rufus ShinRa was afflicted by the sickness, however Reno — shit, he missed late night bar crawls and spending well-earned gil on the most ridiculous things. When sleep eluded the Turk, he missed luxurious trips to Midgar's premiere spa more than ever. Deep tissue massages, cleaning out the stock of gold label alcohol at adjacent bars, and taking a casual stroll by the HoneyBee Inn to amuse the girls with a charming smile and some generous gil.

For how much credit the entire world gave the Lifestream, Reno continued to think very sparingly of it. Couldn't it just fix all the shit going on, or, better yet, wouldn't it punish those who had fucked Gaia over time and time again? Some saw the president of the collapsed ShinRa as getting his new due, but there were thousands of former employees and a few handfuls of loyal Turks who remained unaffected by the geostigma. Reno supposed the Lifestream did not have conscious thought . . except for the time it saved the earth . . or had that been instinct?

Deep thought was not offered to the way the world worked, only that he, his Turks, and the boss man were shit out of luck. It was the end of an era for ShinRa, though the remaining Turks and Rufus claimed it to be the beginning of a new era. The hope people clung to when control was out of their hands — Reno was capable of understanding now. There were two things the redhead knew in life: how to be a ruthless kid and how to be a successful Turk. Clawing his way to the top as a child led him to the elite and coveted position among the Turks, but what was there after becoming a Turk?

Reno knew nothing else, and Reno wanted nothing else. The Turks who, in truth, were more civilian than actual Turks had built up lives for themselves far before the fall of the electric company. As for Rude, Elena, and Tseng, they, too, had nothing else. All of them heard the bitter remarks and snickers from the public . . the Turks were just playing pretend. Reno did not give much thought to it, because frankly deep and meaningful thoughts did not look good on him. He did what he did best, and wasn't that just part of the shit show that was life?

Luxuries aside, easy to jest about, the redheaded Turk missed the international missions of utmost importance, the state of the art equipment produced by ShinRa engineers, the feeling of power and importance on a global scale. He felt as though he had been knocked down the totem pole by many degrees. Did his comrades feel the same way as well? When inebriated, Reno attempted to pick his partner's brain over the matter, yet neither of them seemed too intent traversing down a rabbit hole of self-exploration and pity.

Perhaps the universe had heard him ( again, he didn't exactly believe in such a sentience ), perhaps Rufus grew tired of his Turks running around like errand boys and girl instead of putting their training to use. Just attending an exceptionally formal meeting in the meager home roused renewed energy within Reno, and the details which followed also excited him. Something different? Something actually new? There were no files to push around and no screen to project pertinent information; there was only memory. There was a name Verona and the rumours which surfaced to the front of his mind.

Apparently the half Turks had caught wind about her whereabouts; rumours they had followed until they found the woman themselves but had not approached. Rufus was already considering getting in leagues with the ex-AVALANCHE members, was he really contemplating extending a hand towards another ShinRa betrayer? The answer, of course, was yes. Reno and Rude were tasked to the mission, and mixed feelings spewed freely from the redhead's mouth during the trip. A meager amount of gil, rudimentary supplies, basically living out of a van . . . yeah, it was totally like the old days.

Reno wanted action, right? He certainly received it. He ceased complaining after the fourth day of travel as worry and paranoia mounted. Rude had heard the rumours too, but he offered little input whether or not he believed it. He knew his bald partner like the back of his hand didn't fail to notice the new level of tension on the fifth day of travel. They arrived at the coordinates provided by the other guys, and the van pulled up slowly as if to advertise their friendly presence.

Donning their Turk issued suits, both Reno and Rude exited the van at the same time and though his bald partner was head and shoulders taller than he, both men kept the same pace to the front of the home. Reno wished to whisper something snarky but dreaded the possibility it would be heard and taken badly. Wild thoughts kept bottled. Rude wore his black sunglasses, but the redhead as able to decipher the expression beneath as both men exchanged glances. Reno won, so the larger Turk knocked on the door with a gloved hand. Two steady beats, and then . . they waited.

starter for @strywoven

[reflections-virtues101]

The Timeless Wisdom of 'Pour être riche…Il faut donne'.

Have you ever stumbled upon a wise saying that not only resonates with your heart but also challenges the very core of your perspective on life? Well, I recently found myself in exactly that moment when I encountered a profound French proverb. It struck me so deeply that it instantly brought to mind verses from the Book of Proverbs in the Bible.

This French gem goes by the words, "Pour être riche…Il faut donne," which can be beautifully translated to "To be rich…one must give." Now, I understand if you're initially taken aback by this notion. It's only natural to wonder, "Why should one give to become wealthy? Why not hoard and accumulate as much as possible?" However, this saying is not just a catchy phrase; it's a gateway to a powerful concept known as the law of reciprocity—an age-old principle that has stood the test of time.

In Proverbs 11:24 (KJV), we find a verse that resonates harmoniously with this sentiment: "There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; And there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty." This timeless truth challenges the very foundation of our conventional understanding. It beckons us to consider that by sharing our blessings and extending a hand to others, we unlock the door to abundance in our own lives.

To put it in simpler terms, let's explore the New Living Translation of the same scripture: "Give freely and become wealthier; be stingy and lose everything." (Proverbs 11:24 NLT) Now, isn't that a compelling reminder of the power of generosity?

The law of reciprocity is a profound and universal principle, woven into the fabric of our existence and passed down through the ages. It encourages us to adopt a unique perspective on wealth and prosperity. Those who have dared to follow this principle have not only witnessed financial success but have also been showered with blessings in various facets of their lives.

This concept of giving transcends mere monetary riches. It encompasses the wealth of time, resources, love, and compassion. When we give wholeheartedly and selflessly, we set in motion a chain reaction of positivity, resulting in an avalanche of blessings that enrich every corner of our lives.

So, whether you embark on a personal journey to renew your mindset or take up the noble task of instilling this timeless truth in a young soul, remember the wisdom encapsulated in "Pour être riche…Il faut donne." It is an open invitation to explore the transformative power of generosity and the sheer joy of giving. As we venture together down this path, may we unlock the doors to virtue, prosperity, and a life overflowing with abundant blessings. Oh! and check out these other verses of scripture. (Proverbs 3:27;Luke 6:38;Psalm 112:9)

[kanzgamesandtrailers]

Hogwarts Legacy – Official Reveal Trailer | February 10, 2023 on PS5, PC...

Hogwarts Legacy: Hogwarts Legacy is a role-playing video game (RPG) developed by Avalanche Software and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment in collaboration with Portkey Games. The game will be released in February 2023 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and PC (Windows, via Epic Games Store and Steam); in April 2023 on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and in July 2023 on Nintendo Switch.

This game takes place in the world of wizards created by J. K. Rowling, without her being involved in the development and the scenario of the game.

In 2022, Hogwarts Legacy is considered by some journalists to be the most anticipated video game of the year.

Initially scheduled for 2021, the game's release was later announced for Christmas 2022. In August 2022, Avalanche Software announced the postponement of the game for the beginning of the following year, with a specific first release date.

History:

The plot takes place in the extended fantasy universe imagined by J. K. Rowling for the Harry Potter novels and the Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them films. It follows the development of a wizard or witch, i.e. the person who plays the game, within Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the late 1800s, before the events of Rowling's two series.

The first phase of the game is a phase of integration and discovery of Hogwarts, its magic classes and the surroundings of the domain. The embodied character, endowed with an ancient and singular magic, is integrated directly into the fifth year of studies, and learns to develop his magical abilities by casting various spells, preparing potions and taming fantastic animals.

As he progresses through the game, the character comes to understand that the particular magic he holds is coveted by goblins and dark mages to destroy the wizarding world.

The stories adapt to the course chosen by the person who plays and it is possible to select his companions to evolve in the game.

Characters:

The main character can be male or female, and fully customizable. During the adventure, he is guided by several protagonists, such as the enigmatic professor Eleazar Fig, who informs him of a potential rebellion by a group of goblins led by a certain Rannrok, and the threat that weighs on Hogwarts.

The character meets several other notable students who come to help her in her quests and entrust their story to her, such as Natsai Onai, a courageous Gryffindor student driven by her thirst for justice; Poppy Sweeting, from Hufflepuff, an altruistic student fascinated by magical creatures, or even Sebastian Pallow (Sallow in English), a charismatic Slytherin student, hiding a dark family secret, Grignet (Deek), a house elf, helps the person who plays to organize the room on demand according to his needs and to discover its particular functionalities.

Game system:

Hogwarts Legacy is an action-adventure role-playing game (RPG) in an open world, It is played in single player mode and in objective vision.

In the character creation menu at the start of the game, the person can choose their appearance (face shape, eyes, skin color, hair, accessories), voice tone, first and last name, Hogwarts house as well as than his dormitory (girls or boys).

The avatar progresses in the game by being equipped with a magic wand, A system of morality is also present: the missions and scenarios are not the same according to the choices of the person and the values that he decides to defend during adventure

Hogwarts Legacy: Hogwarts Legacy, available Friday February 10, 2023 on PS5, PC and XBoxSeries.

*- What GPU does Hogwarts Legacy use? 

                     Recommended/High Specs 

RAM                                 16 GB 

GPU                                 NVIDIA GeForce 1080 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT or INTEL Arc A770 

DX VERSION                         DX 12 

STORAGE                        85 GB SSD

[savagesneversleepnyc]

JUNE DOOM POEMS

The end was atop HART

WHERE I FOUND MYSELF

Forever returning to embrace the question

Mark I embarked upon in opening my eyes

Today

The light is always brighter now and I feel like an out side ghost at times who floats past so quiet that it’s passes all planes and maintains the next breathe of vowels

The roll out of my head into the street

I empathize with the compressed rodents

I almost trip over and remember to keep my eyes open more to always perceive what is in store. The mighty glacial WHAT IF?! I gift back to universe is the quiet way I told me to stop allowing the avalanche to consume all my thoughts and d words.

I know I can reach in at anytime and Devine the dilution most useful but can only pick out this tool or choice when I control the TINY SCARED little voice. That bellows louder than reason and means words that dislike choices and seek to belittle the next as the rest are half steps of full measure consequence.

So back to the top of the END as I begin again and chant A E I O U until I too can feel the GOOG OOZE out and allow my inner voice to be heard and seen surprise even me. The Susie def animated state I continue to embrace commands constant devotion and faith.

The path into the next step cannot be anchored in fear of definitions or confectionery conjectures of tacit elation morning stars like street cars desire simple ways and plays to push into tomorrow as we beg steal or burrow the courage required.

In the great houses of old the EMPEROR sat atop lofty ambitions and executed many convincing plays. But alas and avast we past the ruins and tomb all gone quiet like TERRACOTTA ARMIES sleep in the earth.

Revolutions around the sun spitting atoms of positive light live and energy. Be it animate or stairs, be it celestial or the magma core aglow. We know we walk into the profound mystery of all the words we are yet to write and live… 314 6:47am BED HOD LO NRG 6.18 6.18.24.00000003 OGI

The chemical romance less ORDINARY

ode to random lady in noir)

PURSED NOIR PILLOWS

Atop stark hues that pounce

Eagerly to dark spaces

Glinting into to the fluorescent

Light bulbs pulsing iridescence

And brackish tongue lashings

Extended like a serpent

From out of the tall blades

Of grass as a naked ankle

Nary past in electric motion

Beckoning the strike like

Swollen tonsils crave the ice cream

As promised but only get apple sauce

9:57am L TO MANHATTAN 6.18.23.00003 OGI NYC

My shadow and the right shoe

My shadow and the right show

Standing on AVENUE A

Like strangers stuck in a lift or lifeboat

Left to hang or float

Or cast a longer shadow

Standing still and killing time

As the old fella huffs and puffs and

Sniffs at the whole crosswalk line

The bus rolls past and vents

A burst of DINO-CARBON BELCH

As the light changes and my right foot becomes the shadow crossing

The shoe left alone

To bake and await the steel

Bristles of the street sweeper

Pounding the concrete clean and right

12:14pm L to BROOKLYN 6.18.23.00003. OGI NYC

[gamersguide]

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH(WHAT WAS AND WHAT’S COMING?)

Square Enix’s “Final Fantasy VII Remake��� venture stands as one of the most ambitious and triumphant undertakings in the history of video games. The initial installment, unveiled in 2020, captivated fans with its breathtaking visuals, enriched narrative, and exhilarating combat. Presently, all attention is focused on “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth,” the second chapter of the trilogy slated for release in 2024.

Revisiting the Universe:

The iconic Final Fantasy VII, a 1997 masterpiece that not only revolutionized RPGs but also left an indelible mark on music, fashion, and even anime. Its influence goes beyond gaming, shaping a cultural phenomenon. However, the vast and intricate universe of Final Fantasy VII extends far beyond its initial release, encompassing prequels, sequels, spin-offs, and alternate interpretations. Let’s embark on a journey through the expansive tapestry of the Final Fantasy VII saga:

The 1997 Masterpiece:

The original Final Fantasy VII, released on the PlayStation in 1997, was a groundbreaking phenomenon. With its pre-rendered backgrounds, 3D character models, and an epic narrative, it captivated audiences worldwide. The tale followed Cloud Strife, a former SOLDIER turned mercenary, as he joined the eco-rebel group AVALANCHE in their resistance against the corrupt Shinra Electric Power Company, siphoning the planet’s life force for energy. Themes of environmentalism, corporate greed, and the struggle against destiny struck a chord, transforming Final Fantasy VII into a cultural touchstone.

Compilation of Final Fantasy VII:

This comprehensive term encompasses various media ventures that explore the expansive world and characters of Final Fantasy VII, released subsequent to the original game. It includes:

Before Crisis -Final Fantasy VII-: A mobile prequel delving into the formation of the elite Turks unit within Shinra.

Crisis Core -Final Fantasy VII-: A PSP prequel centered around Zack Fair, a SOLDIER and close friend of Cloud, unraveling his tragic past and connection to Sephiroth.

Dirge of Cerberus -Final Fantasy VII-: A PS2 sequel tracking Vincent Valentine, a recurring character from the original, five years after the events of Final Fantasy VII.

Advent Children -Final Fantasy VII-: A CGI film set two years post-Final Fantasy VII, portraying Cloud’s battle with Geostigma, a mysterious ailment afflicting the planet.

Final Fantasy VII Remake:

In 2020, Square Enix embarked on an ambitious endeavor: reimagining Final Fantasy VII for contemporary audiences. This multipart epic retells the original narrative with breathtaking visuals, expanded gameplay, and richer character development. The inaugural segment, launched in 2020, concentrated on Cloud’s odyssey through Midgar, significantly augmenting the content of the original.

The Unfolding Future:

Anticipation mounts for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the eagerly awaited second installment of the Remake saga, scheduled for release in 2024. It pledges to transport us beyond Midgar, unveiling the vast world of Gaia and plumbing the depths of the repercussions stemming from Sephiroth’s manipulation of time.

Looking beyond Rebirth, the destiny of Final Fantasy VII remains veiled in secrecy. Whispers of a third chapter in the Remake trilogy and the prospect of subsequent sequels intensify the anticipation. One certainty prevails: the chronicles of Cloud Strife and his quest for the Planet are far from concluded.

Beyond the Gaming:

The Final Fantasy VII universe transcends the confines of video games. It has birthed a myriad of spin-offs, encompassing tactical RPGs, rhythm games, and even a first-person shooter. Moreover, novels, manga, and anime adaptations serve to enrich the world and its characters, offering fans a more comprehensive exploration of this captivating universe.

While Square Enix has maintained secrecy regarding the specifics of Rebirth, a mix of official disclosures and abundant online speculations has fueled anticipation. Here’s a roundup of confirmed information, our optimistic expectations, and the latest grapevine chatter about the rebirth:

The Confirmed

Picking up from where “Remake” concluded, the narrative of “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth” unfolds as Cloud and his comrades grapple with the repercussions of Sephiroth’s manipulation of time. The official trailer provides a glimpse of a Midgar in turmoil, hinting at a world teetering on the edge of chaos.

The exploration expands beyond Midgar, delving into diverse landscapes such as the snow-covered Mt. Nibel and the marshy Corel Valley.

While the combat system retains similarities to “Remake,” Square Enix promises enhancements and additions to make it “even more dynamic and action-packed.”

The Rumored

Speculation abounds about a more prominent role for time travel in the storyline, aligning with Sephiroth’s abilities and the events of “Remake.”

The possibility of introducing new playable characters, including fan-favorites like Vincent Valentine or Yuffie Kisaragi, has been circulating. Teasers in “Remake” have heightened anticipation.

There’s speculation that “Rebirth” might surpass the already substantial length of “Remake,” which boasted a 30-hour main story. A larger world to explore and a more intricate narrative could contribute to an extended gameplay experience.

The Wishful Thinking

Fans express a desire for a return to the Materia system from the original game, seeking a more traditional experience compared to the simplified Materia system in “Remake.”

Hopes are high for an increased emphasis on world-building and exploration, reminiscent of the vast and intricate world in the original “Final Fantasy VII.”

Enthusiasts eagerly anticipate a deeper exploration of the rich lore within the Final Fantasy VII universe, yearning for a more profound understanding of the captivating narrative intricacies.

Know More

Originally Published at GamersGuide

[patoune-prod]

Here is a Tifa, from my fic Avalanche (still a monster of a fic and still only in french, sorry)

Long story short: Avalanche is an alternate universe of Final Fantasy 5 to 12 (and a tiny sliver of Kingdom Heart ) but mainly around the FF7 cast.

Hojo went rogue A-la-Dr-Moreau twelve years earlier and terrorize Gaia with his techno-magical monsters, including Sephiroth, Sin, the sinspawns, the remnants, the heartless and a bunch lovely undeads called the Blissful. In this story, Avalanche is a very specialized seal team dedicated to protect Midgar and trying their best at finding Hojo and irritating Shinra while shoving their nose in his dark stuff. And Tifa, sadly, died during a mission, killed by Sephiroth while trying to protect Cloud. But for a few months, she was alive, well and ready to pummel Zack into the ground every time he call her Sous-tif (bra in french). No worry, they are childhood friend, it's totally normal from them. Now, Zack's twin brother, Cloud, it's another story. He may have a things for strong woman able to fold him in half with an angelic smile.

---

Voilà Tifa, de ma fic Avalanche (qui est toujours un monstre et en cours!) Je regrette vraiment de l'avoir tuée avant le début hein, j'adore torturer Cloud, mais un peu de finesse dans cette troupe de brutes n'aurait pas fait de mal. (Quoique question brutalité, elle se pose aussi pas mal) Mais pendant quelques mois, elle était vivante, en bonne santé, et toujours prête à incruster Zack dans le sol chaque fois qu'il l’appelait Sous-Tif. Nan mais, en tout amitié, hein? Ca date de leur enfance. Avec Cloud par contre, c'est une autre histoire. Il se pourrait qu’il ait un faible pour les femmes fortes capable de le plier en deux avec un sourire.

[jcmarchi]

New Technologies for the Future of European Space - Technology Org

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/new-technologies-for-the-future-of-european-space-technology-org/

New Technologies for the Future of European Space - Technology Org

What do bacteria-based food production, avalanche monitoring and the mapping of Venus have in common? They can all be found among the topics of the 47 research and development activities funded by ESA’s Discovery & Preparation programme between January and June 2023.

ESA Discovery funding is helping Finnish startup Solar Foods explore a solution that involves feeding bacteria with waste gases. The technology already works on Earth – resulting in a powder that can be transformed into tasty, healthy dishes – but could it be extended to space? Image credit: Solar Foods

ESA set up the Open Space Innovation Platform (OSIP) to discover and invest in new unconventional ideas that could greatly benefit and advance European space industry and academia.

Here, the minds behind five of the projects funded between January and June tell us about their projects, motivations and goals, as well as how ESA Discovery funding is helping them take their activity to the next level.

From waste to taste: astronaut dinner made by bacteria

Think of your weekly food shop. It’s heavy, it’s bulky, and certain items turn bad quickly. For long-duration space missions, storing and launching lots of food, as well as keeping it fresh, is a major dilemma.

ESA Discovery funding is helping Finnish startup Solar Foods explore a solution that involves feeding bacteria with waste gases. The technology already works on Earth – resulting in a powder that can be transformed into tasty, healthy dishes – but could it be extended to space?

“Solar Foods has commercialised Solein®, a protein ingredient produced ‘out of thin air’ using carbon dioxide and hydrogen,” explains Arttu Luukanen, Solar Foods. “While the potential of hydrogen oxidising bacteria for food production in space has been suggested in the past, we are the first company aiming to do it in practice.”

The Discovery & Preparation elements of ESA’s Discovery, Preparation and Technology Development (DPTD) activities carry out preparatory analysis and lay the groundwork for ESA’s short- to medium-term future activities. Image credit: ESA

“Carbon dioxide and hydrogen are already available in space habitats as waste gases,” says ESA space medicine expert Jonathan Scott. “As well as providing astronauts with fresh protein, Solein® would support recycling and water management.”

Arttu explains that the ultimate objective is to have one or more future space habitats house their Solein® bioreactor: “We are convinced that with the significant upmass savings the bioprocess provides, we could save tens of millions of euros per year per habitat.”

“We have found it valuable to interact with ESA experts who have provided us with a lot of information on crewed space habitats in general, the characteristics of contemporary environmental control and life support systems, and the requirements for nutrition.”

Monitoring avalanches with satellite constellations

For a variety of ideas and inputs, Discovery & Preparation encourages small companies and universities to participate in these activities, as a new view on old problems often triggers astonishing results. Image credit: German Fraunhofer Society

Every year, avalanches kill people and damage infrastructure. Since they often occur in remote areas, monitoring them using satellites could prove very useful. ESA Discovery has funded the German Fraunhofer Society to explore this idea further.

“Now that mega-constellations of satellites (such as OneWeb, Starlink and others) are available in low-Earth orbit, we want to investigate and hopefully demonstrate that there are potential useful applications,” says Diego Cristallini, leading the research.

Satellite constellations offer continuous coverage of remote areas with multiple satellites looking from different observation angles. In this project, Diego and his colleagues are exploring whether we can use their ‘passive radar’ systems to detect avalanches; these systems listen for the reflections of radio waves off Earth’s surface.

ESA engineer Ernesto Imbembo, who is following the research, explains the potential implications of being able to make use of this technology: “In the short term it could open the door to possible low-cost/low-mass passive radar demonstrators and in the long-term to ad-hoc missions for civil security applications like early-warning of avalanches.”

Diego adds: “If we show that this technology is feasible, it could also have huge commercial relevance, because it could provide avalanche monitoring worldwide at low-cost. ESA support is vital for demonstrating this – because the technology-readiness level is pretty low, it would have been difficult to find financial support elsewhere.”

Clean air for astronauts

“People on Earth are surrounded by fresh air. But astronauts in space do not have the luxury of simply opening a window!” bucher.solutions (in a consortium with Villinger R&D, Danube Private University and ionOXess) is receiving ESA Discovery funding to develop a novel system to disinfect and purify the air that space travellers breathe. Image credit: Danube Private University (DPU)

“People on Earth are surrounded by fresh air. But astronauts in space do not have the luxury of simply opening a window!” bucher.solutions (in a consortium with Villinger R&D, Danube Private University and ionOXess) is receiving ESA Discovery funding to develop a novel system to disinfect and purify the air that space travellers breathe.

The system involves physical/molecular processes that deactivate bacteria, fungi and viruses, whilst avoiding the use of chemical additives. It could be used in an upgrade of the International Space Station’s Advanced Closed Loop System.

ESA materials and processes engineer Malgorzata Holynska, who is covering this project together with ESA colleague Cathal Mooney, explains: “This activity is developing the technology that we could implement in future life support systems, aiming at sustainable, long-term exploration. The aim is to reduce airborne (bio)contamination on a space station and provide an alternative or complement to our existing systems that will one day need updating.”

Lukas Bucher of bucher.solutions adds: “We see a multitude of potential application areas in addition to crewed space travel, Closed spaces are present all over the world. Lifts, airplanes, submarines, waiting rooms, public transportation, offices, basements, open-plan offices, cinemas, theatres, and many, many more!”

This is the first time bucher.solutions has worked on a space project. Lukas says: “The experiences we are gaining in the space sector with this project are exceptional and represent the ultimate challenge for technology enthusiasts across all industries.”

Mapping Venus’s surface in detail

The EnVision mission to Venus will explore why Earth’s closest neighbour is so different. Image credit: NASA / JAXA / ISAS / DARTS / Damia Bouic / VR2Planets

Venus is Earth’s mysterious twin, but little is known about the planet’s surface and interior due to its thick cloud layer and the relatively few missions that have visited.

In the early 1990s, NASA’s Magellan mission revealed that Venus’s surface is dotted with massive volcanoes, weathered lava plains, and other evidence of continuous transformation. From this dataset and painstaking manual search, scientists have found one compelling case for surface change. With Discovery funding, Imperial College London is working on spotting these changes more effectively.

“We are developing intelligent software tools to reliably detect and quantify surface change on Venus, using radar imagery, in a semi-automated way,” explains Philippa Mason, Imperial College London. “On Earth, this is relatively straightforward, but on Venus it is really challenging.”

These open-source tools will be applied to images acquired by next-generation radar instruments on EnVision (ESA) and Veritas (NASA) missions. They will reveal how Venus’s surface has changed between the 1990s and 2030s, as well as changes that occur during the missions.

ESA’s Anne Grete Straume-Lindner, EnVision Project Scientist, highlights why the tools and new radar data will be so valuable for science: “They will help to answer key questions, namely why Venus is so different to Earth, how the surface of Venus has evolved over time, and whether there is any geological activity on the planet today.”

Philippa explains that: “This project kicks off an eight-year programme of research, so we are extremely happy and grateful for the unique opportunity that ESA Discovery provides.”

How does machine learning ‘taste’?

When we think of robots, we tend to personify these non-human aids and give them human-like features. But any machine with inbuilt artificial intelligence can be a robot. Image credit: ESA/S. Berna

A big challenge for using artificial intelligence in space missions is the heavy demand for computation resources. To solve this, dedicated pieces of hardware called ‘hardware accelerators’ can provide the necessary computing power.

As part of its ambitions towards a model-based system engineering approach, ESA Discovery is supporting the Polytechnic University of Milan to translate machine learning algorithms into hardware accelerators for space applications.

“This would have enormous impacts on how we can use machine learning in space,” says Fabrizio Ferrandi, who is leading the research. “Hardware design of machine learning applications is receiving lots of attention, but until now no final solution has been discovered.”

Maxime Perrotin, ESA software engineer, adds: “This activity is essential for us at ESA, as AI is going to be increasingly important in our daily lives and this is one step towards its integration in our development processes.

While model-based system engineering is being adopted for developing space systems, linking with the growing AI frameworks now guarantees that the European space industry has early access to the possibilities offered by the combined use of these technologies.”

Fabrizio adds: “OSIP is a great booster for the research since it grants the possibility to interact with engineers and researchers from ESA, who bring their priceless experience and support. Along with that, a wide range of real-world use cases is made available by ESA to test the research product, assess its capabilities, and ensure many can benefit from it in the future.”

Source: European Space Agency

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[gardenishika]

The World of Miniature Online: A Small Universe of Possibilities

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced digital age, everything is getting smaller, yet more accessible. From smartphones to compact cars, miniaturization has become a trend that simplifies our lives. And now, this trend has extended to the online world. In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating realm of “Miniature Online” and explore its unique features, benefits, and potential applications.

What is Miniature Online?

Imagine the internet, but condensed into a tiny, self-contained universe. That’s the essence of Miniature Online. It’s a concept that revolves around creating microcosms within the vast web, offering specialized content and experiences to users. These mini-online communities cater to niche interests, fostering a sense of belonging and intimacy among like-minded individuals.

The Birth of Miniature Online

The idea of Miniature Online emerged as a response to the overwhelming nature of the internet. With billions of websites and an avalanche of information, it’s easy for users to get lost in the digital wilderness. Miniature Online platforms seek to remedy this by curating content and connections, making the online experience more manageable and enjoyable.

The Advantages of Miniature Online

1. Hyper-Relevance

In the world of Miniature Online, everything is tailored to your specific interests. Whether you’re passionate about knitting, vintage cars, or Japanese tea ceremonies, there’s a miniature community for you. This hyper-relevance ensures that you get precisely what you’re looking for.

2. Enhanced Engagement

Larger social media platforms often suffer from superficial interactions. Miniature Online platforms encourage meaningful engagement. Users connect on a deeper level, sharing their passion and knowledge within a tight-knit community.

3. Reduced Noise

Say goodbye to information overload. Miniature Online focuses on quality over quantity. You won’t have to sift through irrelevant content or endure endless advertisements. It’s a tranquil oasis in the noisy digital desert.

4. Expertise Exchange

These miniature communities attract experts in their respective fields. Whether you want to learn a new skill or discuss advanced topics, you’ll find knowledgeable peers eager to share their insights.

The Rise of Miniature Online Platforms

1. Niche Social Networks

Platforms like “Knitters United” or “Classic Car Enthusiasts” are gaining popularity. They provide spaces where enthusiasts can connect, share, and collaborate.

2. Specialized Forums

From “Bonsai Lovers Forum” to “Gourmet Cooking Guild,” these forums offer in-depth discussions and expert advice.

3. Microlearning Websites

Miniature online education platforms offer courses on niche subjects, allowing users to become experts in their chosen fields.

How to Get Started in Miniature Online

Identify Your Passion: What’s your hobby or interest? Be specific.

Research Miniature Online Communities: Use search engines or social media to find platforms related to your passion.

Join the Community: Sign up and start engaging with like-minded individuals.

Contribute and Connect: Share your knowledge, ask questions, and build relationships.

Explore and Enjoy: Immerse yourself in the miniature universe and make the most of your online experience.

Conclusion

Miniature Online is a breath of fresh air in the digital landscape. It’s the antidote to online overwhelm, offering a sense of belonging and expertise sharing. So, if you’re tired of the chaos of the internet, consider diving into a Miniature Online community. Get ready to connect with passionate individuals who share your interests and discover a world of possibilities.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How do I find a Miniature Online community related to my interests?

You can start by using search engines or social media platforms to look for niche groups or forums. Be specific in your search, and you’re likely to find a community tailored to your passion.

2. Are Miniature Online platforms safe to use?

Most Miniature Online platforms prioritize the safety and well-being of their members. However, as with any online community, it’s essential to exercise caution and follow the platform’s guidelines.

3. Can I create my Miniature Online community?

Absolutely! If you have a passion or interest that’s not adequately represented online, consider starting your own Miniature Online community. Many platforms offer tools and support for community creators.

4. Are Miniature Online platforms free to join?

Many Miniature Online communities are free to join. However, some may offer premium features or content for a fee. It varies from platform to platform.

5. How can I make the most of my Miniature Online experience?

Engage actively with the community, share your knowledge, and be open to learning from others. Building meaningful connections and contributing to the community’s discussions will enhance your Miniature Online experience.

Explore the world of Miniature Online today and embark on a journey of connection and expertise!

[ailtrahq]

This partnership is also a significant stride in the Japanese government’s endeavor to embrace blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, fostering their broader adoption within the country and beyond. Binance Japan is partnering with Mitsubishi UFJ (MUFG) Trust Bank, a move squarely aligned with the Japanese government’s new Web3 policy. This collaboration aims to birth a new stablecoin, and the chosen platform for its development is the Progmat coin platform, a proprietary asset of MUFG. This platform diligently adheres to the strict Japanese regulations governing the issuance and management of cryptocurrencies. Back in 2022, when the Japanese government imposed restrictions on non-banking institutions issuing stablecoins, a new strategy was devised to introduce bank-backed stablecoins across various blockchain networks, including Ethereum, Polygon, Avalanche, and others, all powered by MUFG. As part of this comprehensive strategy, the bank introduced the Progmat coin just last year, with the overarching goal of providing an interoperable and universally accepted asset payment solution for both stablecoins and digital currencies. The issuance of this stablecoin represents a strategic move to diversify financial services within the Japanese crypto landscape. This innovative stablecoin is poised to facilitate transactions in the Japanese yen and other major global currencies like the US dollar. By doing so, it effectively extends the utility of cryptocurrencies beyond national borders, reaching international markets. In its release, Binance stated: “This game-changing stablecoin will be born utilizing the Progmat Coin platform, an innovation owned and operated by Mitsubishi UFJ Trust Bank… The partnership is already in full swing, with the three entities conducting a joint study to pave the way for the stablecoin’s introduction. Their mission is to issue a novel stablecoin capable of facilitating transactions not only in yen (JPY) but also in currencies as mighty as the US dollar (USD).” This partnership with Binance is also a significant stride in the Japanese government’s endeavor to embrace blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, fostering their broader adoption within the country and beyond. The creation of stablecoins and the establishment of strategic partnerships are pivotal steps in achieving this overarching goal. A Pivotal Leap towards Widespread Cryptocurrency Adoption Japan stands out as one of the first major economies to have instituted comprehensive regulatory frameworks for stablecoins. The country is expected to see a substantial uptick in stablecoin offerings linked to the Japanese yen and the US dollar after 2024. The government plans to issue the necessary certificates and licenses to qualifying entities to facilitate this growth. This proactive stance by the Japanese government holds the potential for a profound impact on the Japanese yen and the country’s burgeoning cryptocurrency market. It represents a significant stride toward the seamless integration of cryptocurrencies into the fabric of traditional finance. Stablecoins, known for their inherent value stability, offer many real-world applications, from everyday transactions and purchasing goods and services to facilitating cross-border money transfers to support loved ones. The ease with which stablecoins can be exchanged between users makes them an attractive choice for various day-to-day financial transactions. Thank you! You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Source

[gameslegacy23]

Unveiling the Hogwarts Legacy Map

Fans have been fervently yearning for a captivating new game immersed in the enchanting Wizarding World, and the ingenious team at Avalanche Software embraced the daunting challenge with unwavering determination, bestowing upon us the mesmerizing masterpiece that is Hogwarts Legacy. While this enchanting creation does not draw its inspiration directly from the iconic Harry Potter novels, it unfurls a profoundly immersive narrative that delves into the intricate tapestry of a young scholar's existence within the illustrious Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where you can also find a magical bookstore to buy PS5 games.

The expansive expanse of the Hogwarts Legacy map sprawls majestically, encompassing the entirety of Hogwarts Castle, with its resplendent spires and arcane chambers, and the picturesque hamlet of Hogsmeade, both endowed with their own distinctive and bewitching cartography. An astounding constellation of 16 prominent and meticulously crafted realms adorn the expanse of the Hogwarts Legacy map, each gradually unfurling its secrets and allure through the organic progression of the narrative, the allure of side quests, and the inexhaustible spirit of exploration.Astonishingly, regardless of their House affiliation, intrepid Hogwarts Legacy players can venture into all four common rooms, their selection ordained by the venerable Sorting Hat itself. Additionally, some may even decide to buy PS5 games to further immerse themselves in the magical world of Hogwarts.

In the realm of this colossal open-world opus, the map becomes the veritable lodestar guiding your audacious odyssey, and Hogwarts Legacy is no exception to this rule. Amidst the labyrinthine corridors of the school's hallowed halls and the sweeping vistas of the Scottish Highlands, one must master the art of interpreting this prodigious cartographic masterpiece, for its sheer magnitude can be positively overwhelming, as we glean from our immersive journey in the enchanting realm of Hogwarts Legacy. Presented herein is a comprehensive compendium of everything you need to unearth about the Hogwarts Legacy map, replete with its myriad regions and resplendent landmarks that beckon the intrepid explorer, including where to buy PS5 games for an enhanced gaming experience.

Navigating the Labyrinthine Universe of Hogwarts Legacy

The map within the labyrinthine universe of Hogwarts Legacy dwarfs all expectations with its sheer magnitude. Therein lies the entire expanse of Hogwarts itself, a self-contained realm brimming with its mysteries and enchantments. Beyond the venerable castle's venerable walls, one discovers smaller hamlets and the vast and enigmatic Scottish Highlands, along with the enshrouded enigma of the Forbidden Forest. Secrets, curiosities, and enigmatic puzzles abound at every turn, and one cannot help but marvel at the monumental task that awaits completionists who embark upon this captivating journey. A plethora of side quests await, intertwining seamlessly with the central narrative, promising an immersive gaming experience that extends to a staggering 45 to 80 hours, with each playthrough brimming with unique opportunities as you embrace different Houses and styles with each iteration.

Within the hallowed sanctum of Hogwarts, a realm unto itself, an intricate and labyrinthine map is a necessity, as the venerable institution teems with serpentine passageways, towering spires, and riddles waiting to be unraveled. An impressive constellation of no less than 32 swifter-than-a-snitch travel points resides within the venerable walls of Hogwarts, ranging from the resplendent common rooms, each bearing the distinctive mark of a Hogwarts Legacy house, to the opulent grandeur of the Great Hall, where the Sorting Hat ceremony unfolds with mystic splendor. In the pursuit of Daedalian keys and Gobstone locations, you'll find yourself consulting the Hogwarts map with increasing frequency, embarking on a captivating quest that transcends the bounds of time and space.

[svalbardcommproject]

Education in Svalbard

Education in Svalbard is a little different than in other countries (archipelagos). Their only school is located in Longyearbyen, Svalbard. There are around 230 students that attend this school ranging from 6 years old to 18 years old. That makes up an average of 20 students per grade attending the combined primary and secondary school. The school was founded in 1906 by John Munroe Longyear who decided the town needed a school after he established the island’s coal mining economy which brought many families onto the island. The students are required to do 10 years of compulsory education. Although many families that live on Svalbard come and go after 3 years since that is when the contract with Svalbard’s coal mine ends [1]. 

Svalbard’s education system is like Norway’s, with a few class exceptions. They attend school beginning at 8:00 am, and end at 3:00 pm, which can be difficult during the winter months because of the lack of sunlight. Svalbard isn’t able to grow a lot of vegetation and the curriculum is reflected in that. Instead, the school on Svalbard offers classes that appeal to the island’s requirements for living there. Some of those include Wilderness Survival, where students learn how to behave around polar bears; Reindeer Hunting, where a teacher will shoot a reindeer and the students will learn how to properly dress and prepare it for consumption; and even Avalanche preparation, where students learn how to survive an avalanche. Unlike many schools in the United States, the teachers are required to have a rifle readily available for use in case of a rogue polar bear entering the town. In addition to that, it is rare for the school to have a snow day since the island is covered by snow the majority of the year anyways [1].  

There are not many options for extended education after secondary school on Svalbard besides The University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) which is the world’s northernmost institution of higher education. Although this school only offers research-based courses in Arctic Biology, Arctic Geology, Arctic Geophysics, and Arctic Technology which can be taken at a bachelor’s, master’s and a PhD level. Nearly 700 students from all over the world will come to Svalbard yearly to attend UNIS courses (which are offered in English) and then return to their primary university after the courses end. Residents who wish to extend their education must go down to Norway to attend university. 21% of the population of Svalbard has graduated from college with their bachelor’s degree, 13% graduated with a master’s degree, and 6% have achieved their PhD. Although the percentages vary since the turnover rate for living in Svalbard is high [2].  

Work Cited 

Fouche, Gwlady. “Starting School in Svalbard, in the Arctic Circle.” The Guardian, 29 Aug. 2007, www.theguardian.com/education/2007/aug/29/schools.uk1. 

“University Centre in Svalbard.” UArctic 2021, 27 May 2016, www.uarctic.org/members/member-profiles/norway/8835/university-centre-in-svalbard#:~:text=The%20University%20Centre%20in%20Svalbard,Arctic%20Geophysics%20and%20Arctic%20Technology.