#building a house to serve as a base for your adventures

[rainedragamute]

The deep seated queer autistic urge to build a community with people, in both the relationship sense and in the actually physically building a community sense. Real life would be nice but videos game would also work.

[agentrouka-blog]

Thoughts on Jon Snow as a character? He's my fav so far

I like him!

He didn't start out as a character I felt especially drawn to. I mostly pitied him, especially in ASOS, and he's very dour if that surface level dramatic melancholia and dry resignation isn't your cup of tea. I never hated him, but... he was just sort of there. And every projection for his future plot I found while casually perusing the fandom was bland. Secret Targ, okay. What's the point of that, then? Connecting the Wall plot to the dragons? Grand Tragic Secret Heir and Grand Dramatic Dragon Queen Do Grand Dramatic Tragic Destiny stuff dramatically? Zzzzzzzzz.

After delving into the theory of Jonsa, I obviously engaged more with the character, and I have grown very fond of him. Lots is lurking under the surface that I had never paid attention to in depth.

And what I find the most crucial is that his story is at its heart so small and domestic and emotional. It's relatable for being ordinary at its heart. It's about healing and reconciling after a burdened childhood, finding out what you really want and discovering you can have it. Not in grand gesture but in self-worth and honesty.

The most engaging and the absolute hinge of his characterization is his attachment to his family, his home, and the North. Being a bastard prevents him from living this out and creates The Obstacle he chafes against. It causes him to strike out looking for Importance in adventure and glory, and he fails. And learns. But it is ultimately that deep love and attachment that truly guides him in everything he does. And that makes him actually extremely interesting as a character, because it shifts his arc away from being about Magic and Apocalyptic Drama as some abstract excuse for heroics, toward that of inner conflict. It's a small, very relatable story about longing for home, playing out on a big canvas for background. All Jon does during his adventures away from home, his frustration struggling with his compassion, his understanding of the world being wittled down to questions of basic ethics, it's all based on his understanding of himself as a Stark, serving the duties and values of a member of House Stark. To belong to his family and himself in his own heart, if he cannot belong otherwise. And it highlights why those popular speculations about him are so bland. They don't touch his core. Dragons? What do they have to do with House Stark and Winterfell and his pack? Nothing. They, too, ultimately represent an Obstacle between himself and his deepest desire of truly belonging in his home without reservation, by removing his paternal connection.

Except, it's replaced by the maternal connection. One that matters just as much. That has been nagging at him all this time. It actually cements his identity, rather than dismantling it. Not shameful burden but valued and protected. This, too, takes Jon out of the realm of Bland Male Heroics (Rhaegar's special destiny boy) toward a story of inner healing and equilibrium. It's self-acceptance. Very human. Very ordinary. Very powerful.

And as a special twist - and this is why Jonsa is so brilliant as a theory - his parentage is also the key to actually granting him those impossible secret wishes of replicating his childhood the right way through his own marriage and family. But only if he is worthy of this through his actions and choices, worthy of being loved and recognized as a metaphorical prince. He get's to be a fairytale princess, essentially, raised from humility to fulfillment. Because of who he is. Who he has chosen to be again and again, because of his fundamental love. Everything else, the heroics, the missteps and recoveries, is just window dressing. Exciting ways to tell a simple story.

His story doesn't work with a tragic ending of repeated exile. It's all building toward balance and peace. It's extremely moving.

I'm a big fan.

[sealixirfairytales]

Random game idea

It would not be the first time I have ideas for video game that will clearly never come to life.

So here is the most recent one "Fable Realms" that would be a mobile game based on my fairytale (would be.... more like "could" be if I could make it ^^')

Would you play it if it was real? What would you add?

1. World Exploration and Discovery

Collect Fairy Tale Characters: Players could encounter characters from my tales as they explore real-world locations. Each location could be tied to a specific character or creature, with higher chances of meeting certain characters based on the location's attributes (like meeting Merline in a park, or Ineo by a lake).

Unlock Story Fragments: Each time a player meets a character, they unlock a new fragment of the character’s story or background. This could even be accompanied by illustrations, voiceovers, or interactive animations, giving them pieces of the tales as they progress.

Seasonal or Location-Based Encounters: Some characters or events might only be discoverable in specific weather conditions or seasons, similar to a festival or rare event in a magical world. For example, a player might meet Frosya in winter, or Corrania near a beach or body of water in the summer.

2. Interactive Character “Companions”

Build a Team of Characters: Instead of capturing or catching, players could "befriend" or "earn the trust" of each character by completing small challenges or answering questions that show understanding of the character's personality and world.

Level Up Friendships: As players interact with characters, they could increase their “friendship levels.” Higher friendship levels could unlock exclusive interactions or let players access specific storylines, animations, or abilities tied to that character.

Special Powers and Abilities: Each character could have a unique ability or blessing they grant the player. Peony, for instance, might give the players bonus to find hidden characters by bodies of water, while Cinnamon might highlight hidden locations in parks or woods.

3. Daily and Thematic Quests

Fairy Tale-Inspired Quests: Each day, players could receive a quest inspired by a particular tale. These could range from exploring certain types of locations to snapping photos of specific objects, which could serve as “tokens” for the characters. (picture of a water lily for Ineo, picture of a book for Taly...)

Event-Based Mini-Stories: Similar to story-driven events, each week or month, players could experience a mini cross-over adventure where they encounter a series of characters or creatures and have to solve a mystery or perform a series of tasks. For example, a drought-themed event might require players to “rescue” Ineo by visiting water sources.

Mystery Encounters: Some quests might involve following clues to solve puzzles or find hidden items. These mysteries could lead to rare character encounters or story segments not normally accessible.

4. Magical World-Building

Fantasy Realms Superimposed on the Real World: Players could unlock “realms” that overlay the real world, such as a Fairy clairing, a whole castle on irl ruins, or a lost cottage in a forest, each tied to themes and stories from the fairy tales. Visiting certain areas in the real world could “reveal” these realms in the game, allowing players to explore and interact with fantastical settings.

Build Your Own Fairytale Village: Players could use resources and items gathered from exploring to build a magical village or sanctuary. Characters they’ve befriended would live here and have some needs, like a house, certain type of decorations, giving players a sense of immersion in your fairy tale world.

5. Augmented Reality Interactions

Photograph Magical Creatures: Using AR, players could see and photograph creatures and characters in their surroundings. For example, pointing their phone at a fountain might reveal Ineo, or an AR character might “speak” to them as they explore.

Interactive Gestures and Items: Players might “gift” characters items they find in the real world, such as flowers, stones, or shells, by photographing these objects. These items could grant bonuses or unlock story content. Gesture-based interactions (like “casting a spell” by tracing symbols) could enhance immersion.

6. Lore and Storytelling System

Unlocking Talebooks: Players could “fill in” talebooks as they collect characters and story fragments, each book representing a different tale. Completing a talebook might reward players with unique visuals, short animations, or even the full written tale.

Storytelling Events and Campfire Chats: Occasionally, players might meet a “wandering storyteller” character who shares lore from your tales. These might be timed events where a character speaks about certain regions or creatures, giving players hints about upcoming encounters.

7. Cooperative Play and Community Features

Shared Events and Team Challenges: Players could team up with friends or nearby players to complete larger challenges, like defending a magical forest from encroaching darkness or restoring an enchanted river. Successful completion could grant special bonuses to all participating players.

8. In-Game Collectibles and Customization

Magic-Infused Collectibles: Players could collect magical items tied to characters or stories, such as enchanted jewels, potion ingredients, or fragments of mythical artifacts. These collectibles could be used for crafting items, potions, or charms that help in gameplay.

Character Costumes and Variants: Players might unlock special costumes or alternate forms for characters, inspired by different seasons or locations, adding a layer of customization. Imagine a summer look , an armor, or a desert style!

9. Seasonal and Holiday Events

Celebrations Based on Your World’s Lore: Just as Pokémon Go has themed events for real-world holidays, the game could feature lore-based celebrations tied to specific fairy tales. For instance, a "Festival of the Oasis" could celebrate Rahele, while a "Midsummer’s Fair" might involve Merline and other fairies, with floral decorations.

10. RPG-Style Duels and Group Battles

Player vs. Player (PvP) Duels: Players can challenge each other to friendly duels where they use their collected characters. Each character would have their own stats, abilities, and unique powers inspired by their fairy tale backgrounds. For example, a Ineo might have healing abilities, while a Whynhilda (the Enchantress) could summon vines for defense.

Character Levels and Skill Progression: Characters would gain experience and level up through exploration, quest completion, and successful duels. Higher levels unlock new abilities or buffs, making each character stronger over time. To encourage strong bonds, players with high friendship levels with a character could earn bonus points or abilities in battles. Players can also give special gifts and food to raise the characters level.

Team Strategy and Synergies: Players can form teams of characters with complementary abilities. For instance, combining a healer, a tank, and a damage-dealer could create a well-rounded team, or pairing up characters who share elemental affinities could grant synergy bonuses. Certain tales might involve characters who have a special bond or power boost when fighting alongside each other, like pairing two witches, two princesses, two villains, or characters from the same tale.

11. Multiplayer Raids and Cooperative Group Fights

Weekly Bosses and Cooperative Raids: Every week, there could be special boss encounters inspired by villains or dark forces from the fairy tales. Players team up with friends or nearby players to take down powerful foes. These bosses could have unique move sets and require coordination among players to defeat, with rewards like rare collectibles or special character fragments.

Realm-Wide Events: Occasionally, special events could bring about global challenges where all players can contribute to a shared goal. Imagine an event where the wind monster (The Sage of the Windy City) threatens the magical realms, and players around the world contribute by fighting creatures or completing quests to “weaken” it collectively.

12. Romance System

Romance with Canonically Single Characters: Players could unlock romance paths with characters that are canonically single, making these interactions rare and special. Romance would involve building a high friendship level first, completing character-specific quests, giving specific gifts, and perhaps winning certain duels together. As the bond grows, players might unlock unique dialogue options, story scenes, and even special abilities in battle.

Date Locations and Bonding Events: Once romance is unlocked, players could “visit” virtual places, like a magical grove or an enchanted lake, where they can interact with their chosen character/s. These scenes could include small mini-games or choices that deepen the relationship and occasionally grant temporary boosts, like increased stamina or higher XP gain for a set period.

Personalized Story Endings: Some characters could have personalized endings based on the player’s friendship or romance choices, giving players the satisfaction of a fairy tale “ending” with their favorite characters. These special stories could be unlocked as “epilogues” once the romance has reached its highest level.

13. Step Count Integration

Daily Step-Based Bonuses: Like Pikmin Bloom, this game could encourage physical activity by giving players in-game rewards for walking. Reaching certain step goals each day could reward players with experience points, currency, or energy points for battles.

Character Bonding Through Steps: Characters could walk alongside players (virtually, on the screen) and earn friendship points as players hit step goals. Certain milestones might trigger mini-dialogues where characters comment on the journey or share snippets of their backstory.

Step-Triggered Encounters and Events: Special encounters could be unlocked at step milestones. For example, after 5,000 steps, a player might meet a rare character, find a hidden treasure, or receive a powerful temporary buff for upcoming battles.

14. Character Training and Ability Customization

Training Mode: Characters could undergo “training sessions” as players walk, which would contribute to improving their stats, like attack power or defense, and unlocking special abilities. This would let players customize characters based on their desired strengths for battle.

Ability Upgrades Based on Friendship Level: As players increase their friendship with a character, they could unlock special abilities or “signature moves” unique to that character’s personality and story. For instance, a dragon character might get an ability called “Inferno’s Embrace” that deals more damage to ice-type foes, but only if their friendship level is high enough.

15. In-Game Collectibles, Rewards, and Customization Options

Unique Avatar : Players would have customizable avatars in-game, allowing them to personalize their look with various outfits, accessories, and themed items inspired by the fairy tales. As they progress, complete quests, and strengthen bonds with characters, they can unlock exclusive costume pieces, hairstyles, and accessories that reflect the unique styles and aesthetics of each story realm. These customizations would let players visually represent their journey and achievements, as well as show off their favorite characters and tales in a tangible way as they interact with others in the game world.

Avatar and Gear Customization: Players could earn items to customize their avatar’ appearance, like rare cloaks, enchanted jewelry, or seasonal costumes. These items could be both aesthetic and functional, with some offering battle buffs or bonuses.

Relics and Power-Ups: Players might collect relics—special items tied to each fairy tale’s lore—that enhance characters’ abilities or provide boosts in certain types of battles. A relic like “Oasis Gem” might enhance water-based abilities, for example, or “Feather of the Phoenix” could boost a character’s speed.

16. Event-Based Challenges and Rival Battles

Seasonal Tournaments: Occasionally, a global in-game tournament could allow players to pit their characters against each other in single-elimination rounds. Winners might receive unique rewards, such as exclusive items or rare relics, and have their names displayed on in-game leaderboards.

Rival Battles with NPCs: Certain powerful NPCs might challenge the player’s team, especially if the player is exploring a specific realm tied to that character. Defeating these rivals could unlock rare rewards, and occasional rematches with them would give players the chance to collect special lore or powerful items.

17. Romance Bonding Between Canon Couples

Official Couple Bonding Levels: Canon couples, like Victoire and Amanda from The Brave Princess, could have their own unique bonding progression. This "Couple Bonding Level" would increase through shared battles, cooperative quests, and special in-game events where the two characters are on the player’s team together. Of course the player need to have the two characters.

Exclusive Couple Abilities: As the Couple Bonding Level increases, players would unlock special abilities that only activate when both characters are in the same team. For example, Victoire and Amanda could have a powerful “Duo Strike” ability, or a “Protector’s Shield” that boosts defense for the entire team.

Romantic Moments and Events: Periodically, players might trigger mini cut-scenes or dialogues between canon couples, which would let players explore their relationship more deeply. These moments could reveal story details, or even temporarily boost the characters’ stats or stamina.

18. Family Bonds and Interactions

Family Bond Levels: Family members could also have a special “Family Bond Level” that reflects the strength of their relationship. Players could earn points toward these bonds by having family members on the same team, or by completing family-specific quests. For example, if a character has a sibling or parent, pairing them up would build their bond level.

Family-Exclusive Abilities: As the Family Bond Level increases, players could unlock abilities exclusive to family groups. For example, if siblings are fighting together, they might have a “Sibling Synergy” boost that increases their speed or attack power. If a parent and child are on the team, there could be a “Guardian’s Blessing” that increases defense.

Unique Family Interactions and Story Scenes: Occasionally, family members could trigger unique dialogues where they reminisce, tease each other, or even reveal background lore and secrets from their shared past. These interactions would feel rewarding, as they deepen players’ understanding of the characters’ lives and relationships.

19. Relationship-Based Bonuses in Combat

Dual Attack Skills and Combo Moves: Canon couples and family members could unlock dual attack skills or combo moves once their bond level reaches a certain point. These moves would be more powerful than standard attacks and could have special effects, such as area damage or healing buffs.

Romance or Family Boosts in Battle: When a canon couple or family members are on the team, they could grant passive boosts to each other or to the whole team. For instance, couples might provide an “Inspire” boost, which increases each other’s critical hit chance, while family members might grant an “Enduring Bond” boost that increases resistance to certain types of attacks.

20. Story Arcs and Alternate Epilogues

Alternate Epilogues for Canon Couples: When a couple’s bond reaches its peak, players might unlock a special “epilogue” that dives deeper into their relationship or shows their “happily ever after.”

Expanded Story Arcs for Families: Reaching high Family Bond Levels could unlock exclusive story content about the family’s shared history or a unique legacy questline that reflects the family's values or challenges.

21. Step-Triggered Bonding Events for Couples and Families

Bonus Friendship Points from Steps: When players have canon couples or family members in their active team, they could earn bonus friendship points based on steps taken, symbolizing shared adventures. The closer these characters become, the stronger the bonuses they provide.

[ktaminfo]

The Best Places to Visit in Europe

Europe, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes, offers countless destinations for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, romance, or history, the continent has something to suit your desires. Here are some of the best places to visit in Europe:

1. Paris, France – The City of Ligh

A perennial favorite, Paris is a dream for romantics and art lovers. Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre Museum never fail to amaze. Wander the charming streets of Montmartre, enjoy a croissant in a quaint café, or cruise the Seine River for a magical view of the city.

Start your travel from here

2. Rome, Italy – The Eternal City

Steeped in history, Rome is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. From the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the Vatican City and Sistine Chapel, the city is an open-air museum. Don’t miss the mouthwatering Italian cuisine—carbonara and gelato are a must!

start your travel from here

3. Barcelona, Spain – The Vibrant Jewel of Catalonia

Barcelona combines stunning architecture with a lively beachside vibe. Marvel at Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, stroll along La Rambla, and soak up the sun on Barceloneta Beach.

Start your travel from here

4. Santorini, Greece – The Island of Romance

Famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea, Santorini is a haven for honeymooners. Witness the most stunning sunsets in Oia, explore the volcanic beaches, and indulge in Greek wine and cuisine.

Start your travel from here

5. Amsterdam, Netherlands – The City of Canals

Known for its picturesque canals and charming architecture, Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise. Visit the Anne Frank House, admire Van Gogh’s masterpieces, and relax in the serene Vondelpark.

Start your travel from here

6. Prague, Czech Republic – The Fairytale City

With its cobbled streets, gothic spires, and the stunning Charles Bridge, Prague feels like stepping into a storybook. Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock and Prague Castle. The city is also famous for its hearty Czech beer.

Start your travel from here

7. Dubrovnik, Croatia – The Pearl of the Adriatic

This coastal gem is renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls and crystal-clear waters. Wander through the Old Town, visit Fort Lovrijenac, and take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the city and sea.

Start your travel from here

8. Reykjavik, Iceland – Gateway to Natural Wonders

If you love nature, Iceland is a must-visit. From the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle to the Northern Lights, Reykjavik serves as the perfect base for exploring these natural marvels.

Start your travel from here

9. Vienna, Austria – A Symphony of Culture

Vienna is a city of elegance and music. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace, explore the art collections at the Belvedere, and attend a classical concert at the Vienna State Opera. Don’t forget to try a slice of Sachertorte!

start your travel from here

10. Swiss Alps, Switzerland – A Winter Wonderland

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Swiss Alps are a paradise. From skiing in Zermatt to hiking in Interlaken, the pristine landscapes and charming alpine villages will leave you breathless.

start your travel from here

Tips for Traveling in Europe

Plan ahead: Popular destinations like Paris and Rome can get crowded, so book accommodations and tickets in advance.

Pack light: Many European cities have cobblestone streets, so lightweight luggage is a lifesaver.

Use public transport: Trains and buses are efficient and connect even the most remote destinations.

Whether you’re captivated by the romance of Paris, the history of Rome, or the natural beauty of Iceland, Europe offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and let the adventure begin!

Start from here and Now

[blackjackkent]

Found the Mason's Guild!

If this was indeed the headquarters of the local Selunite Resistance against Shar's encroaching darkness, they didn't do a very good job, because it is DARK over here; this area is covered with the scary sort of dark where Selune's blessing isn't enough and we have to carry the moonlantern around.

Hector tries to assuage his anxiety via being a history nerd and Shadowheart is unimpressed.

She's right, though. There's a series of skeletons mounted outside the entrance to the guild building proper, which doesn't seem to bode well for a friendly welcome.

You don't scare me, I have a fancy lantern. >:|

There's also a lot of abandoned cut stone everywhere in case we want to leave this life of adventuring and build a giant marble tower.

Stepping inside, the place has definitely seen better days. Karlach notices a pile of bones on one stone slab (which the narrator describes as being "of varying shapes, sizes, and creatures"); it has a plaque next to it stating: "Here lies the Grand Mason, his bones and lies exposed." But the import of this, if any, is not obvious.

Oh, hey, more presents for Karlach in the event she needs a tune-up.

This seems promising.

The basement is full of even more cut stone and some broken statues.

There's an elevator here which doesn't seem to serve an obvious purpose:

As well as this, which was hidden behind a perception check:

I brought Astarion in quickly to deal with this bc it's a DC 18 and Hector's middling sleight-of-hand is starting to run through my lockpicks.

Unlocking this pushed open a hidden door in the wall. This note is pinned up inside:

Uh oh.

Unsurprisingly, this super conspicuous chest sitting out nearby is super trapped:

As soon as Hector biffed the disarm roll, some gates came up, a wall opened revealing gargoyles with fire in their mouths, and we went into turn-based mode.

O.O; I'm gonna reload and bring Astarion with me for the rest of this section.

There was only 33 gold in the chest once Astarion hacked it open, too. :P

Proceeding onward, we get to a very large room that looks like it might have once been a mess hall or something like that. Promising note for later:

This marked an area on our map for something to check out at Moonrise later.

From this note, I took literally one more step forward and the place erupted with wraiths like the ones Mummy and Daddy were back with Oliver.

...Astarion I hope you've been keeping up to speed on your rapier work.

Ultimately not too bad a fight. Particular shoutout to Shadowheart, who landed a couple very nice Sacred Flames that obliterated two of the shadow creatures. Nice to see since she honestly struggles in combat somewhat compared to the rest of the team.

Upsettingly, each of the corpses of the shadow creatures has some text when we inspect them afterwards:

"A happy, faded memory comes to you. A woman walking along a beach, holding hands with her husband-to-be."

"A distant memory of a man stretching his back with a groan. Another day of hauling masonry blocks done."

"Before the shadows, there was once a house full of warmth and children's laughter in this one's life. No more."

"Calloused hands work a hammer and chisel around a massive slab of rock. Months from now, a face will take shape."

"You can almost taste the souer ale that once clung to this soul's breath. He was insensible when the shadows came for him."

"You sense this one hid for days as the sounds of battle got closer and closer to town. You didn't even care who won, so long as it ended."

:(

There's journals on the table reflecting information about the last Selunites who stood while Ketheric Thorm's Dark Justiciars took over the town, bringing the shadow curse with them. This apparently counts as completing the quest of investigating the Selunite resistance.

Hector's okay with this, because historical knowledge about the Selunites is reward enough for him. For everyone else, though, it's probably a bit anticlimactic.

Luckily there's one more trapped and locked chest to open - DC 21 this time, so very glad I still have Astarion along. Decently nice helmet in it too, so we'll call that a win. :D

[sisterdivinium]

@halobearerhavoc By this tag, you signed up for what I am posting here now (I couldn't help myself, even if it's not a digital game!) Based on John Harper's excellent Lasers & Feelings, this is:

Warrior & Nun

You are members of the ORDER OF THE CRUCIFORM SWORD. Your mission is to protect humankind from demons, preserve your dignity while serving in the Church and finding your own faiths. The HALO BEARER has been sucked by an interdimensional portal, leaving you to fend for yourselves while on leave on The Other Side.

PLAYERS: CREATE CHARACTERS

Choose a weapon for your character: Sword, Staff, Shotguns, Crossbow, Pure martial arts, or Gadgets.

Choose a trait for your character: Proud, Discreet, Outspoken, Eager, Bubbly, or Sombre.

Choose your number, from 2 to 5. A high number means you're better at WARRIOR (fighting, strategising, athletics, strength, passion, etc). A low number means you're better at NUN (diplomacy, academics, social abilities, rituals, calm, etc).

Give your character a cool saint name or something like it.

You have: a regular habit, armour, means of communication with other OCS members, a Mother Superion.

Player goal: get your character involved in crazy demon-hunting and women-kissing adventures and try to make the best of them.

Character goal: choose one or create your own: Prove yourself to your shitty family, Become next in line as halo bearer, Find yourself a new family with your sisters, Forgive yourself for your own sins, Be loved, or Keep Being Awesome (you have nothing to prove).

PLAYERS: CREATE YOUR OCS CHAPTER

As a group, pick two strengths for your convent: Handy connection to a rich, brilliant scientist woman; Ties with a powerful cardinal, Highly competent sisters, Gadgets galore, Large library on demonology, Easy access to vehicles.

Also, pick one problem: Most of the sisters are aggressive, undisciplined and possibly sociopathic; The press is on to you, The Vatican is unwilling to spend another penny on you, Mother Superion is always having a bad day, You only have ammo and fuel for another week, Your house priest might or might not have been compromised by a being from another dimension and is secretly working against you...

ROLLING THE DICE

When you do something risky, roll 1d6 to find out how it goes. Roll +1d if you’re prepared and +1d if you’re an expert. (The GM tells you how many dice to roll, based on your character and the situation.) Roll your dice and compare each die result to your number.

⬇️ If you're using WARRIOR, you want to roll under your number.

⬆️ If you're using NUN, you want to roll over your number.

0 - if none of your dice succeed, it goes wrong. The GM says how things get worse somehow.

1 - if one die succeeds, you barely manage it. The GM inflicts a complication, harm, or cost.

2 - if two dice succeed, you do it well. Good job!

3 - if three dice succeed, you get a critical success! The GM tells you some extra effect you get.

!! - if you roll your number exactly, you gain a moment of REVELATION. You get a special insight into what's going on. Ask the GM a question and they'll answer you honestly. Some good questions: what are they really feeling? Who's behind this? How could I get them to _____? What should I be on the lookout for? What's the best way to _____? What's really going on here?

With your Revelation, you can change your action if you want to, then roll again.

HELPING: If you want to help someone else who's rolling, say how you try to help and make a roll. If you succeed, give them +1d.

GM: CREATE AN UNHOLY ADVENTURE

Roll or choose on the tables below.

A threat...

A possessed cardinal

A demon-worshipping cult

An eurotrash would-be prophet

A Vatican ex-archivist

A mad scientist

A renegade sister warrior

Wants to...

Destroy/corrupt

Steal/capture

Bond with

Protect/empower

Build

Occupy

The...

Pope

Divinium

Vatican

Quantum tunnel

Tarask/wight demon

Holy artefacts

Which will...

Destroy the halo

Brainwash the masses with a new dangerous religion

Enslave humanity

Start a war/invasion

Rip a hole in reality

Fix everything

GM: RUN THE GAME

Play to find out how they defeat the threat. Introduce the threat by showing evidence of its recent badness. Before a threat does something to the characters, show signs that it's about to happen, then ask them what they do. "The Firstborn Children guards run toward you, what do you do?" "Your undercover tactical nun partner pours you a glass of lemon drop and slips her arm around your waist, what do you do?"

Call for a roll when the situation is uncertain. Don't pre-plan outcomes — let the chips fall where they may. Use failures to push the action forward. The situation always changes after a roll, for good or ill. Ask questions and build on the answers. "Have any of you encountered a nun who to all intents and purposes was dead but is now alive and kicking whilst in the process of becoming some sort of demon hybrid before? Where? What happened?"

[solsearchingnights]

Thinking about early iitv chapters. Anyone want Jimmy's Double Life flashback? Because its below the cut since I giggled reading it again.

Through chance alone he had ended up sharing the life and pain of a man who was easy to fall for. Tango just hadn’t been interested in catching him.

Jimmy remembered one night, sitting beside a campfire and looking over the ravine. Cleo, Martyn, and Scott were with them, neighbors sharing a starry night. Tango was treating them once again to a retelling of his mission to surface their Warden. He was a captivating storyteller, and every time he’d recalled the harrowing adventure, there was a new close call, another daring escape. Jimmy trilled when his man wrapped a nametag around the warden’s neck, and gasped as Tango misstepped, straying from the wool path and only a breath away from oblivion as he was chased into his hastily made tunnel. When he described the splash of the warden entering his waterway, Tango kicked up sparks from his toes.

Their neighbors, having only heard the tale once or twice before, were appreciative of the theatrics. Appropriate cheers and exclamations danced around the fires of the circle, and the flames of Tango’s hair.

“And now,” Tango’s tale came to a close, “our sweet baby boy is free. Swimming to his heart’s content and able to kill all the fish he wants!” He stood on the edge of the ravine, arms spread wide, and took a bow.

Jimmy’s heart skipped as he saw just how easy it would be for Tango to be pushed slip and perish on the rocks below. Without thinking, he lunged forward, wrapping Tango in a hug and pulling him back to solid ground, to safety. He laughed, trying to play it off as no big deal. “My soulmate, everyone! Bet you wish yours was as brilliant!”

Tango beamed, hugging him back. His warmth was impossible not to relax into. “I had to avenge the Ranch! Now everyone knows not to mess with us.” He announced it to the dark night, but met Jimmy’s eyes. 

The moment was over far too soon, but it left Jimmy breathless, spinning.

“So now I just have your grudge under my base for the rest of the server?” Martyn grumbled, but it wasn’t serious. “I can hear that thing when I’m trying to sleep. It’s terrifying.”

“Good!” Jimmy and Cleo quipped in unison.

Cleo giggled as Jimmy continued. “Serves you right for building that hideous thing on our doorstep.”

Wisely, Martyn didn’t try to defend himself. Instead, he stood and stretched. “Gonna go treat myself to some nightmares, then. You all have a good night!” As he left the ring of firelight, he disappeared into the blackness. There was a distant sound of rattling bones and a yelp to mark how far he’d made it. Cleo flinched and rubbed her arm, but rolled her eyes when Scott tilted his head in question.

“I’m gonna head to bed, too.” Tango rolled his shoulders, then waved to the campfire. “Y’all are welcome to stay as long as you like.” And he started towards the main house.

Jimmy hummed for a moment, considering.

“Go on.” Scott teased. “He’s getting away.”

Jimmy smiled at Scott, appreciating the encouragement. While their own relationship status was constantly breaking the dial of, ‘it’s complicated,’ Scott and Jimmy were happy to see each other happy.

Cleo snorted, “Though if you want to cuddle with this one sometime I wouldn’t mind the break.” She elbowed Scott in the ribs.

“Hey!”

“Jimmy, you could have warned me he’s clingy.” She leaned forward, mischievous smile on her lips. “Though I have on good authority that Tango’s an excellent little spoon, so you might be set.”

Blushing furiously, Jimmy coughed up a chirp. “I’m sure he is, Cleo. Now if you don’t mind, I’m gonna— I’m just gonna go.”

The pseudo soulmates chuckled as he left them behind. 

He caught Tango tugging a sleep shirt on, back turned to the doorway. Jimmy felt his ears burn and feathers puff as he averted his gaze. “Um,” he coughed, “anything I can do to set up for the morning?” He ruffled a hand through his hair, trying to self-soothe and relax his tattling feathers. “Anything you have planned I can help with?”

Tango smoothed out his shirt and turned to grin at Jimmy. “Nah, we’ll see what tomorrow brings, but I don’t have any plans.” He scooped a blanket off a shelf and tossed it over his shoulder. He started to make his way to the ladder. 

“Yeah, okay, cool.” Jimmy winced at his words. “So I wanted to thank you.” He stepped the rest of the way into the room, raising his voice to make sure Tango wouldn’t have to stop to listen to him. “What you’ve gone and done with the warden, it's really incredible.” He busied himself pulling his own sleep clothes out of storage.

He could hear the ladder creak as Tango began to climb. “Of course! Anything for the Ranch!” The creaking stopped, too soon for him to have reached the second floor. “And thank you too, Jim.”

Jimmy, his shirt half-removed, froze.

“Just look what you’ve built here, all while dealing with my less-than-stable reputation.” Tango chuckled. “A warden loose on the surface is the least I could do for you.” The creaking resumed, and soon there were footsteps on the second floor.

Jimmy exhaled a shaky breath. Trying so hard not to overthink his next steps, he dressed for bed, and followed Tango up the ladder.

The blaze hybrid was laying in his own bed, smiling idly at his communicator.

“Tango?” Jimmy begged his voice to sound stronger than he felt.

“Mmh? What’s up?” His eyes flicked off the screen to peer at his soulmate.

Jimmy took a step forward. “I’m really glad we’re soulmates. Getting to know you has been such a blessing.” He tried not to cringe at the awkward wording. It sounded as if he hadn’t spent weeks figuring out how to say this. “Every moment I spend with you I’m finding more ways to appreciate you, and if you’ll have me, I’m committed to being whatever kind of partner you want from me.”

It didn’t matter if the silence lasted seconds or minutes, it felt like a lifetime to Jimmy.

When Tango exhaled a laugh, Jimmy jumped.

“Sorry, I just didn’t realize how much I needed to hear that.” Tango put down the communicator and sat up.

Jimmy’s heart stuttered.

“Jimmy, I don’t know how obvious it is, but I’ve been torn up with guilt for our first death.” He rubbed the side of his neck, where Jimmy knew a faint scar from the blast marked his flesh. “Learning you’re stuck with me like that? With me proving I can’t protect us? Absolute nightmare!”

Jimmy clicked in protest, then realized Tango might not know what it meant. “Not at all, Tango! I’m the cursed one, it was probably somehow my fault on a big ol’ universal level or something.” He wasn’t sure where his soulmate was going with this response, but despite his better judgment, he was hopeful. “And I don’t care about all that, you’re more than worth an accidental death or two.”

Tango grinned. “So we’re officially putting that behind us? Gonna take on the world baggage-free?”

“Of course!” Jimmy’s brow furrowed, trying to parse what was happening. “What part of me pouring my heart out in confession makes you think I was holding a grudge?”

The communicator pinged and drew Tango’s gaze for a second. He returned to Jimmy and tilted his head. “I don’t know if you know this, Jimmy, but you’re a super nice fella. Something tells me if you actually loathed me, I wouldn’t have any way of knowing until a moment like right now.” The comm pinged again and Tango’s hand drifted to it.

Jimmy could feel the blush return. “Right, I mean, I definitely don’t hate you.” The conversation was still very positive, complimentary, and so confusing. “Tango, I’m confessing my–” Don’t say ‘love’ that’ll scare him off for sure. “That I’m quite taken with you, here. I’m not sure you’re following.”

When he laughed this time, Tango’s sharp teeth and inhuman eyes sparked instinctive fears of being devoured. Jimmy shivered and couldn’t tell if he liked the thrill or not. “Sorry, you’re so right. I’m gonna stop overthinking it.” Tango threw his arms wide, clearly inviting a hug. “Of all the people in this crazy-ass server, I’m glad I got to be soulmates with my new best friend. Things could have been so much worse!”

Jimmy didn’t have the time (or the willpower) to stop himself from falling into the offered hug. By the time Tango had shut the iron door in his face, locking it by naming him ‘best friend’, Jimmy was tightly wound in his soulmate’s arms. He was sure Tango noticed him stiffen, positive the blaze had heard his breath catch (their faces were next to each other, how could he not?). And when Jimmy only offered a shallow laugh as a response, there was no way Tango didn’t hear the color of hysteria dancing through each sound. 

But whatever should have come next would only be that: ‘should’.

The communicator pinged. It was wrapped in Tango’s hand, resting right on Jimmy’s neck. The sound may as well have been a shard of ice, cutting through the warmth of Tango’s arms and directly through Jimmy’s heart.

Tango huffed a laugh and detangled from the hug. “Sorry, Zedaph got a link through the server and I’m just getting the chance to catch up on his messages.” He leaned back on the bed, tapping at the screen with one hand and patting the mattress next to him with the other. “We’re probably gonna video chat in a second if you want to meet him? Impulse will be on too.”

And there it was, the proof Jimmy needed that he had overstepped. The warning laced in with the invitation, that there were others already filling the role in Tango’s life that Jimmy had found himself imagining he might–

“No, I’m okay, thanks.” He stumbled back. He coughed. “Actually that reminds me, we left Cleo with a lit fire next to our wooden ranch.” He rubbed his hands up and down his arms.

“Oh, I suppose we did!” He craned his neck around, peering out the window. “You think they’ve put that phase behind them, orrrrr…?”

“I’m gonna go check on that.” He tripped over his feet to get to the ladder. “I’m suddenly very unsure about a lot of things.” At least that was true.

When his feet hit the first floor he chose not to hear Tango’s excited greeting as the call connected. Jimmy made for the front door and shut it gently behind him.

Eyes closed, Jimmy let himself fall back against the rough hewn wood. He had no idea what came next. He wanted to be numb, to be lost for any feeling at all. But instead his brain was fully engaged in reliving everything he had missed, every sign he had misread. He had bombed the most basic test of their relationship and failed to notice that there were hard limits in place.

He wanted to sob. His chest was so full of emotion that there was no room left for even the heartbreak.

A laugh fell from the window above and repelled Jimmy like a cannon blast.

He stumbled away from the house, blindly moving down the hill and towards the point of light on the edge of their territory. Desperate to ignore one source of merriment, he found another. As he approached it was clear Cleo and Scott were preparing to leave. 

They were talking in low but energetic voices, laughing and enjoying the night. Scott was using his sword to spread apart the logs on the dwindling fire, and Cleo was gathering the remains of roasted apples and campfire-boiled tea for disposal. Still too far to make out their words, Jimmy caught Scott throwing some remark over his shoulder, and Cleo responding by throwing a half-eaten apple at his back. Their laughter was the first clear bit of the exchange he heard. Jimmy wished he had the capacity for envy at their easy camaraderie.

“Oh, Jimmy! Welcome back!” Cleo was the first to spot his approach. “Are you doing okay there, bud?” Goddamn his friends for having empathy and being good people. It would be so much easier if they were selfish and unaware of the feelings of others.

“Oh, you know,” he gestured to the sputtering fire, “thought it might be a good idea to put the fire out, what with the Ranch’s recent history.” It was close enough to the excuse he gave Tango that it felt consistent.

Too bad it wasn’t particularly believable.

“Jimmy.” Scott’s voice was a familiar chide.

It only took a few seconds of silence for Jimmy to lose composure. There was barely a sound associated, it was a quiet cascade of tears.

There were hands on his shoulders, gentle shushes and kind words. His head was pulled down to a shoulder in a protective embrace; the familiar texture of Scott’s denim overshirt pressed against his face. He felt his cheeks burn in shame. Here he was, crying over the rejection of one man while in the arms of another he still loved. And Cleo. Cleo was there. 

“Jimmy, can I touch your feathers?” Scott’s question was gentle, non pressuring. If Jimmy said no, everything would be okay.

And if it were anyone other than Scott the idea would have disgusted him. As it was, nothing sounded more right. He managed to release a chirp of affirmation, and was immediately rewarded with soft fingers on the back of his neck.

Cleo asked something, but he couldn’t hear through the growing haze behind his eyes. He just nodded, trusting that his friend wouldn’t be asking him to agree to something harmful. A second later and he was being lifted, scooped up like a sleeping child. He chirped in surprise, but a hand behind his ear and reassurances from above quelled any real protest.

She carried him through the darkness. He had enough wherewithal to marvel that she was unbothered by the act of carrying a man taller than her over rough terrain in the middle of the mob-filled night. Jimmy knew he should be insisting on his independence, that they would be mocking him as soon as they knew he was losing him marbles over an unrequited crush. But even more, he knew he should appreciate the affection while he could. His friends might be insufferable, pranking, bloodthirsty, bastards, but they took care of their own.

It took no time at all for them to be on a wooden porch, Cleo carefully setting his feet on the planks. Jimmy blinked up at the building and recognized Scott’s house.

“I’ll be just over the bridge if you need me, ya’hear?” She gave Jimmy’s shoulder a squeeze and walked away.

“Come on in, Jimmy.” Scott laid a hand on the small of his back and urged him through the open front door. “Is this a ‘give it time’, or an ‘eat our feelings’ kind of cry?”

Jimmy tried to laugh but just hiccuped.

Scott stepped past him, moving to start the furnace for light and warmth. “Pick one, the couch or the bed. I’m fine with each and I’ll not leave you alone either way.” The elf’s ear twitched as the flint and steel sparked loudly.

The practical man inside Jimmy said, “couch.” The active, sad, and needy Jimmy set his sights on the bed and made his way over to it.

“Extra blankets?” They both fell into each other’s habits so easily.

“Yes please.” Jimmy’s voice was small, but he knew Scott heard as the sound of a chest opening was followed by the overencumbered grunt of the man.

Several pounds of wool and cotton landed in a mound in front of Jimmy. “I’m going to get some hot cocoa, you arrange the bed.”

It was natural, being in Scott’s space and making it shared. No matter what else was happening in his head, Scott had a way of making him feel grounded, safe. At home, his mind supplied. As he folded and unfolded blankets, pretending not to notice how nest-like the arrangement was, Jimmy listened to the familiar sounds of Scott’s tuneless humming from the kitchen. It soothed something deep down, spreading a sense of ‘rightness’ through his bones.

Of course that didn’t mean he wasn’t still an absolute wreck. Jimmy would have to call his emotional state in that moment, “complicated and unfair.” Most overwhelming, as he fluffed a pillow and cast a critical eye over his work, was the emptiness of disappointment. It was coming from all directions. He was disappointed, of course, that Tango didn’t return his feelings. That was the easiest to understand. But even more than that was the self-loathing disappointment in himself for letting these feelings fester and embed themselves in him in the first place. He had no right to Tango’s affections, so why had he been so set on claiming them?

He warbled, a sound of frustration and mourning. Scott, accustomed to translating such sounds, called out.

“I’ll be just a moment, Flower. Trying not to spill.”

And wow, it had been a while since he’d heard a pet name. It sent a wave of warmth down his spine, fighting back the chill of sorrow. Either Scott was really tired, or he was presenting as very pathetic right now. Jimmy suspected he knew which was the culprit.

Scott came in, mugs in hand and another blanket draped over an arm. He settled the cocoa on the bedside table, and nodded appreciatively at Jimmy’s achievement with the bedding. “How bad we talking? You want me in first?”

Jimmy blushed. Why yes, he would like Scott to get in first so that he could tuck the man in and reassure himself that everything was perfect. But he was embarrassing himself enough without fully reverting to their old relationship habits. Resolutely, Jimmy climbed in first, deciding not to care that doing so messed up the blankets folded at the edge.

And this was a problem he hadn’t maintained the bandwidth to consider before this moment; the bed smelled like Scott. Cleo too, it was obvious she had spent time over, cuddling and scheming. But Jimmy hadn’t been prepared for how his fragile emotions would handle being sat in the middle of a fortress of blankets that smelled like his best friend.

He tried so hard not to fall into the stereotypes of hybrids. He kept his vocalizations to himself and his most trusted friends, covered his visibly inhuman features, and suppressed every urge to treat his friends to songs and shiny objects. But sometimes it was too much.

Right now it was too much.

The crying began anew and Jimmy threw himself into the bed. He buried his face in a soft blanket, letting the tight weave soothe his skin and the scent of Scott soothe everything else.

Fuck it was so hard to be over Scott when everything about him felt like home.

The bed dipped next to him and a hand ghosted up and down his back. Giving up all pretenses of dignity, Jimmy turned his body to face the elf and made grabby hands to Scott.

“Just a second, Lily.” Scott brought a hand to Jimmy’s chin and eased their eyes to meeting. “There’s something I need to know first, okay? Everything else can wait and you don’t have to tell me anything more than this.” The green crystals dancing around Scott’s head were soothing, like visual white noise, scattering the intense troubled thoughts.

Jimmy nodded. “Anything.”

Scott leaned down, foreheads nearly pressing together. “Jimmy, did Tango hurt you?” His eyes were hard, searching for a true answer and ready to act when he got one.

Jimmy’s own eyes went wide. “No! Not at all! He would never.” Not in the way Scott was asking, not on purpose, not cruelly.

For a few seconds, Scott’s eyes stayed on Jimmy’s face, waiting for him to change his answer.

“Really, Scott, it's nothing like that.” He leaned forward, nuzzling his forehead against Scott’s cheek. “I swear to you, Tango hasn’t hurt me.”

Scott hummed, then nodded. He wrapped one arm around Jimmy and reached the other back to the bedside table. “Thank you, I just had to be sure.”

Comfort fought a hard battle, but curiosity won out. Jimmy lifted his head up to see what his bedmate was doing. He was slightly annoyed to see him typing on his communicator. An indignant click left Jimmy’s throat and Scott responded with a grin.

“Believe me, Flower, you want me to send this message. I’m just letting Cleo know we’re good and that she shouldn’t go kill Tango in his sleep.”

Whatever sound Jimmy was trying to make turned into a choked sputtering.

Scott laughed and set down the device. “Now do you want to talk about it? Or should I just make you forget about everything for a while?”

His feathers freshly ruffled, Jimmy leaned into Scott with a groan. “I don’t know. I feel like an idiot and I only have myself to blame.” His hand shot up to cover Scott’s mouth when he felt the retort coming. “Let me be sad, Scott, don’t tell me how typical this is.” He was melting down, his face pressed into Scott’s neck. He felt the Scotsman’s laugh more than heard it.

“Okay, okay. Sheesh.” He pried Jimmy’s hand off his mouth. “How about I preen your feathers and you decide if you’ll tell me anything substantial.”

Jimmy considered. “Do I have to move? Because you’re very comfortable.”

“If you still trust me to do this while I can barely see what I’m working on? Sure.”

And with how busy all the feelings in his head and heart were, Jimmy found he was happy to let trust win out for this. “Go ahead, Petal.” If he didn’t mention the pet name, maybe Scott would pretend he hadn’t heard.

If his smug laugh was anything to go by, he wasn’t going to pretend any such thing. But without comment he slipped his hands under Jimmy’s shirt and carefully worked it up and over his head.

The air in the house was warm, thanks to the shared body heat and the furnace, but Jimmy still shivered. Blankets pressed into his skin and air snuck under his feathers. Soon, practiced hands scratched small circles onto his flesh. Jimmy melted further. 

“Oh Jimmy, you haven’t touched these in ages.” Scott’s voice was mournful as his hands pet down the feathers on his partner’s back. “I thought you said you were taking care of yourself?” Fingertips wove through the yellow and white down, meeting the sensitive skin below and lighting Jimmy’s brain on fire.

He gasped, unable to hold in the expression. “I– I am. I get what I can reach.”

Scott’s fingers stilled and Jimmy tried to control his pout. “Poppy, most of your feathers are back here. You’re telling me you’ve only been cleaning your shoulders for the past, gods know how long?”

Indignant, Jimmy corrected, “And my arms! And those bits on my scalp.”

Scott snorted. But much to Jimmy’s relief he resumed the light scratching. “I’m not sure I should be doing this, lovely. Are you sure you don’t want a professional to take a look?”

Jimmy’s arms pulled Scott closer. “Frankly, I’m still not sure how you ended up doing this. If I weren’t heartbroken right now, those dumb things would be out of luck for much longer.”

“I am,” he began carefully picking debris out of the fluff, “deciding which part of that to focus on right now.”

Sensing his mistake, Jimmy decided simply not to care. It was Scott. He would have gotten the answers from him one way or another.

They cuddled in silence for several minutes. Jimmy was still too wound up to be at risk of falling asleep, but he was content with the current arrangement. Scott was focused, his humming rumbling against Jimmy’s ear and punctuated by little tugs on his feathers.

He hadn’t realized how uncomfortable his back had been until this moment. Every tiny, sharp pain of irritated skin and embedded dirt was being knocked away, one by one. Whenever Scott smoothed down an area and moved on to the next, Jimmy could feel the way the skin was settling after being angered for so long. There was some part of his mind that seems to have been screaming at him to take care of this for a while, but he was only now able to acknowledge it as it was calming down.

“Jimmy?”

The spoken word stirred him. “Mmmhm?” He should get a prize for his eloquence.

“It’s okay to be disappointed. I’m sorry Tango didn’t reciprocate, but I’m proud of you for shooting your shot.”

Goddamn Scott and his goddamn paying attention to the words he said.

“Can I tell you a secret?” Scott kept at preening as if he wasn’t stirring the pot of Jimmy’s emotions. “I’ve been missing you.”

And that was acknowledgement of a whole set of circumstances Jimmy had thought he’d squarely sorted out.

“And I don’t want to be a scumbag and take advantage of your distress, or heaven forbid make you think I’m celebrating this in any way.” He smoothed down another patch and moved along. “But if you’re out there being vulnerable you deserve to know. I miss you, but I’ll be happy as long as you’re happy.”

“Scott,” his mouth was dry and he wasn’t sure why, “I thought we were over? I thought that’s what you wanted?” He shook his head, what little he could pressed into the other body. “What am I supposed to do with this?”

The laugh carried a warmth through him that Jimmy could pretend was a purely platonic appreciation for friendship. “Honestly Jimmy? I don’t know. I’m not…good, for you. That hasn’t changed. I can’t say that I would be any closer to something you deserve if we were to try again. But like I said, you deserve to know.” One hand moved off the feathers to rub circles on Jimmy’s lower back. “I’m truly happy to be your friend, even if it means I’m nothing more. Tango is missing out on a genuine, beautiful partner by turning you down, and I hope that he sees that before this is all over.”

“Pretty words, pretty man.” Jimmy grumbled into Scott’s neck. “I’m not in a headspace to know what feelings are the important ones, so I’m not gonna make any declarations.” Instinctively, he kissed the soft skin in front of him. “But thank you.”

To his credit, Scott stuttered in his motions for just a second. “You want that cocoa before it gets cold?” As Jimmy started to protest, Scott continued. “I need you to move anyway so I can get at that other shoulder.”

So they drank cocoa, and groomed Jimmy, and cuddled like there was no outside world waiting to take this momentary peace away. And nothing was decided, no problems were solved. But as Jimmy slipped out of bed in the morning and brushed cyan hair out of Scott’s face; as he delivered a chaste kiss to the elf’s forehead and silently latched the door behind him; as he got an early start feeding animals and tending crops with the sunrise coming to meet him; he was content. Things would get better. They would be worse. But there was a wordless determination to see it through staked into his heart.

[bookpublisher1]

Key Factors to Consider When Publishing Your Book

Embarking on the journey to publish a book is a thrilling adventure for any writer. As you traverse the path from manuscript to published work, several crucial decisions await. From the design of your book cover to choosing a reliable book publishing company, every step contributes to the success and reception of your literary creation. In this guide, we'll explore key factors that should be at the forefront of your mind when navigating the intricate world of book publishing.

1. The Artistry of Book Cover Design:

Your book cover is the first impression your work makes on potential readers. A captivating and well-designed book cover not only attracts attention but also communicates the essence of your story. Consider the visual elements, color schemes, and typography that best represent the tone and genre of your book. Investing in a professional book cover designer is a wise decision, ensuring that your book stands out on the shelf or in the vast digital marketplace.

2. Purposeful Foreword:

While the main content of your book is undoubtedly the star, the foreword serves as a valuable introduction that can significantly impact your readers, which is the main purpose of a Foreword in the book. Whether written by you, a respected colleague, or a notable figure in your field, the foreword sets the stage for what follows. Use this space strategically to provide context, share the inspiration behind your work, or offer a glimpse into the themes explored within the book. A compelling foreword can enhance the reader's experience and build anticipation for what lies ahead.

3. The Choice of Publishing Route:

One of the pivotal decisions you'll face is whether to pursue traditional publishing or opt for self-publishing. Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to literary agents or publishing houses, while self-publishing grants you more control but requires additional responsibilities. Consider your goals, timeline, and level of involvement in the publishing process when deciding on the most suitable route. Each option has its advantages and challenges, so weigh them carefully based on your unique circumstances.

4. The Importance of Editing and Proofreading:

No matter which publishing route you choose, professional editing and proofreading are non-negotiable steps in the process. A well-edited book enhances its credibility, readability, and overall quality. Hire an experienced editor to review your manuscript for structural issues, consistency, and grammar. Additionally, a meticulous proofreading phase ensures that typos and errors are minimized, providing readers with a polished and enjoyable reading experience.

5. Building an Author Platform:

In today's interconnected world, authors are expected to have an online presence. Establishing an author platform involves creating a website, engaging with social media, and participating in relevant online communities. This platform not only serves as a marketing tool but also allows you to connect with your audience. Begin building your platform early, even before your book is published, to cultivate a dedicated readership and generate buzz around your work.

6. Researching and Selecting a Book Publishing Company:

If you opt for traditional publishing, selecting the right book publishing company is critical. Research publishers that align with your genre and target audience. Consider their reputation, distribution channels, and the types of books they've successfully launched. A reputable publishing company can provide invaluable support in terms of marketing, distribution, and visibility, ultimately contributing to the success of your book.

7. Marketing and Promotion Strategies:

Regardless of your chosen publishing route, effective marketing is key to ensuring your book reaches its intended audience. Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes both online and offline strategies. Leverage social media, book launch events, author interviews, and other promotional avenues to create awareness. Engage with your readership and build a community around your work to sustain interest beyond the initial launch.

8. Distribution Channels and Formats:

Consider the various distribution channels and formats available for your book. Traditional print, e-books, and audiobooks each have their merits, and the right choice depends on your target audience and marketing strategy. Explore distribution agreements with retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar, to ensure your book is accessible to a wide range of readers.

Conclusion:

Publishing a book is a multifaceted endeavor that involves careful consideration of numerous factors. From the aesthetic allure of your book cover to the strategic choice of a foreword, each decision contributes to the overall success of your literary creation. Whether you choose traditional publishing or embark on the self-publishing route, meticulous planning, and attention to detail will set the stage for a successful book launch. As you navigate the publishing maze, keep these key factors in mind, and may your journey from manuscript to bookshelf be a fulfilling and rewarding one.

[nicklloydnow]

“Dearest Martha,

We knew each other a very long time. Exactly a century in fictional terms, several decades in reality.

From the first discussion I had with Dave Gibbons at, of all places, the San Diego Zoo, about the two of us working together, when I didn't even know your name, I knew that you were a noble, and quintessentially American, creature.

One thing I've always loved about my country is its indomitable spirit, and you were indomitable from the day you were born. The deck was stacked against you: you were Black, female, and impoverished, but nothing ever stopped you. To date, you are the most heroic creation I've ever had the honor to write.

Dave and I fell in love with you early and often. In fits and starts, we told your tale. We hit a crisis early on: puffed-up with self-importance after the success of The Dark Knight Returns, I mischronicled your first adventure as something too on-the-nose political, too self-consciously serious, and, in a word, dreary.

Dave quit. You were almost stillborn, baby.

It took Lynn Varley to straighten my brain out and advise me to reconfigure your story, to bring absurdity and sarcasm and adventure and boyish joy to it, and to win Dave back. Dave's instincts and Lynn's wisdom brought you back from the brink, Martha. It's hardly a coincidence that Lynn shares your birthday, in day and month, if not in year.

So, Martha, my sweetheart, you've been both daughter and mother to me. You've been noble in your every decision, your every aspect, and you've been, unfailingly, a writer's dream: a character who wrote herself.

From housing-project prisoner to drugged-out victim of an insanity ward, from soldier to explorer to savior of the world, to mother of a new generation worthy of your name, you always, relentlessly, wrote yourself.

As Dave does, I miss you, Martha. And I will always love you.

Frank Miller

New York City, 2008”

“Despite being an extremely successful commercial work, and arguably the series that really put Dark Horse on the map as a home for adventurous comics creators bored with the Big Two, the Martha Washington epic is curiously underrepresented in comics criticism, generally liked but not held in anywhere near as much esteem as the creators’ other contemporary works. The character of Martha Washington will occasionally pop up in lists about strong women characters, or POC representation, or bleak sci-fi, but it’s treated as almost a footnote in the careers of Miller and Gibbons. For Gibbons, it serves as a personal and ambitious attempt to stand outside the shadow of Watchmen before the artist shifted towards more commercially inclined series. For Miller, it’s the exact line of demarcation between his classic Formalist Auteur Era (Daredevil, Dark Knight Returns, Ronin) and his hyper masculine Abstraction Auteur Era (Sin City, 300, Holy Terror). Martha Washington is the most human character Frank Miller ever wrote and the last time you can see him caring about a character more than experimentation and style, and not coincidentally it’s one of the last times he would share basically equal creative autonomy with someone.

As Gibbons and Miller both explain in the introductory text in the complete Martha Washington collection, Miller convinced Gibbons to work with him on the series by pitching him the story of Martha “on a mission to prevent an evangelical Elvis clone [from] nuking the rest of the United States from deep in the Arizona desert.” For Gibbons, this offered a giddy respite from “our recently successful dark dissections of superheroes,” so he started working on designs and plans based on that treatment. But when Miller’s script finally arrived, Gibbons was horrified by how dark and gritty it had become, missing the surreal humor and absurdity that had first caught his eye. Miller admits that the project would have been “stillborn” if Lynn Varley hadn’t convinced him to take Gibbons’ concerns into consideration and rework the entire project. The work that Miller and Gibbons eventually created is an incredible hybrid of these two spheres, brutal and unflinching yet curiously warm and tender and goofy. Not unlike life itself, in other words.

What’s especially clear throughout the series that make up the Martha Washington epic is that Miller and Gibbons and their various colorist collaborators truly love Washington as a character. And it’s not hard to see why. Washington is an epic hero with all of the tragedy and none of the hubris. If she has a tragic flaw, it’s that she has hope for humanity, but that’s also the ingredient that makes her continue long past the point her many enemies expect her to fall. As Washington herself puts it in a survival mantra, “When things get bad like this, you just keep telling yourself ‘This won’t kill me, I won’t die here, this won’t kill me.”

(…)

This is why Washington is such a uniquely potent dystopic protagonist. Gibbons draws her not as a cold superhuman brute or insensitive sex warrior (and notably Washington encounters and defeats characters who represent both of these tropes) but as a bold and powerful black woman with a wide emotional range to reflect her equally wide array of physical talents. Many of the most memorable scenes in the series are simple one page depictions of Washington crying in solitary peace after making a difficult decision (like her first foray in the senseless Amazon War between PAX and the rogue Fat Boy Burger corporate state), or multi-panel sequences showing her reaction to a trauma shifting from shock to acceptance to strength (the killing of a basically nonverbal bully who had just slain her adolescent mentor). So many dystopic and post-apocalyptic works gives us protagonists who are blank slates or emotionally cold, indicating that survival is only possible if you shut down everything that makes you human. But with Washington, Miller and Gibbons reject this premise and provide an emotionally open yet brave and strong woman who survives because of how much she values that which makes her human.

As that anecdote about Martha Washington’s gestation shows, a huge amount of Martha Washington’s humanity is due to Gibbons’ vision for what would make this project work and ability to weave that into even the most ambitious of Miller’s ideas (as well as minimize the tone deafness of Miller’s worst concepts– the less said about the gay Nazi terrorist group, the better, though it’s hard not to think of them as predecessors to the dreaded Nu Fascist icon Milo Yiannopuolos). Gibbons rightfully continues to get acclaim for the patterns and precision focus he brought to Watchmen but while that series and Washington share dystopic themes, Washington also serves as a foil to the unfeeling, repetitive nature of that landmark work. Washington is still just as ambitious and epic but there’s a chaos and looseness to it that makes it far more exciting and filling. Miller’s script gives Gibbons ample opportunity to show off his range as an artist, with issues taking place in locations as diverse as the densely overcrowded urban centers of Chicago and New York, the equally claustrophobic but less populated world of the Amazon and the far more desolate realms of the southwest and outer space. But beyond that, it also pushes Gibbons’ talent for realistically rendering human expression to new extremes, with many of its climaxes getting delivered via small panel beats and compressed close-ups of reactions. It’s a detailed work that never feels overbearing, that demands innumerable rereads but never makes that feel like a chore.

(…)

The Washington series is at its best when it focuses on these personal, human tragedies and how they spark the larger, more apocalyptic events filling out the background of the series. Though every Martha Washington release is worth reading, there is a significant difference in mood, tone and aesthetic in the initial Give Me Liberty series and what followed in its wake. The clearest difference comes with the departure of masterful colorist Robin Smith, who was brought on to the series to give it a more “European” feel. Smith’s coloring recalls 2000 A.D. and Heavy Metal but it also fits perfectly alongside the adventurous work Gibbons and Miller’s peers were doing at DC in the same era, particularly Tim Truman’s Hawkworld and Howard Chaykin’s The Shadow: Blood and Judgment, both of which utilized their painterly textures to depict grimy urban decay and freakish figures in ways that felt raw rather than realistic.

(…)

Yet the conclusion of the series, Martha Washington Dies, brought Miller and Gibbons full circle, reuniting them with the fearless and eternally optimistic Washington on her final birthday. A century old and still stoic, Washington knows death is on the way and what surprises her most is that she isn’t alone but surrounded by people she cares about. She chooses to spend last day inspiring them, not holding back about how dire their situation might seem in yet another apocalyptic scenario but focusing on the human capacity to overcome hopelessness. And in her final moment, Washington transforms into a literal beacon of hope, dying and then immediately being reborn as a lightwave leading on the troops. It’s not exactly a happy ending but it’s a perfect ending for the type of warrior Martha Washington is, eternally focused on overcoming all challenges and abiding not by law but by what’s best for humanity. In times like these, that’s perhaps better than a happier story or an unrealistically revolutionary text.”

[harpulator]

i kinda fucking hate 1.20

(image from the minecraft wiki)

Cherry blossom forests do not work at ALL for minecraft, and make the game look like half the textures were swapped for a 2015 kawaii texture pack. The color palette for this biome compared to the rest of minecraft clash so hard it's distracting, like an anime fan has a field day in aseprite. this looks bad.

I absolutely refuse to call this update "one point twenty", because it's NOT, it's update 3.0. updates went 1.8, 1.9, 1.1, 1.11, 1.12, that's not how decimals work. if we *were* at 1.9, the next logical step is 2.0, but for some reason nobody called it that. im no mathematician, but 1.20 is equal to 1.2.

Pottery feels like a mod. Not a good one, either. not even for minecraft mod standards. "oh you like creating things? create a pot!" why on earth would I build something small and lifelike with powers-worth of less combinations than if you were to build a house, or a castle, or whatever because it's minecraft. this feature doesn't tie into anything else, this is completely self contained and adds nothing except bloat to the game. why anyone would bother to do this in survival is beyond me.

I've been dying to rant about this one! Archaeology breaks minecraft's world building outright, and destroys any lore building to now. Minecraft has always had magic and occult themes; enchanting tools and items, pillagers and woodland mansions, potion brewing and witches, zombies and skeletons and giant spiders, the stronghold, the end portal (and igniting it via enemies' eyes), and now we have the most normal form of human science. if it was astronomy or botony or chemistry (alchemy would be sick but that's not a modern human science) then MAYBE but it ISN'T. it's fucking rocks. god knows they aren't gonna do anything creative like you find an ancient artifact or something, you just dust off "suspicious sand" and get in return just completely random and useless shit. If you're late game enough to start adventuring around in search of suspicious sand, why on EARTH would you need ANY of this?

now, to further this fruitless endeavor of adding more stuff from real life to make minecraft more "realistic" or whatever, why would they backpedal SO HARD to add the sniffer? An entirely fictional creature in an update with otherwise exclusively real life additions, there's no theme here. From what i've seen of the sniffer, it looks like a fine mob that actually has something worth adding to minecraft, it just digs around and has fun and acts like a big wacky turtle. love it. A+. why the fuck does it not spawn naturally. the only reason archaeology is useful to any degree to to spawn sniffers, and sniffers dont serve any functional purpose other than to rizzen up your base with ancient plants. why not just make sniffers dig up food for themselves, and then you can tame them to start digging up plants? having sniffers wander around would make the game way cooler, but instead they had to use them to justify a completely useless unrelated system to exist. god that pisses me off.

I had to get this out of my system, but I would like to use this blog for shit im doing in addition to long posts like these about whatever laith is thinking at 11 am on a sunday. I dont like limiting myself to just the funnies and having a shit ton of side blogs is annoying, so if you didnt like this change of form i am not sorry and I will be doing more. ok bye gang

[vnatureresorts]

Discover the Magic of Nature at V Nature Resorts in Kanakapura 

Introduction  

Resorts in Kanakapura Inside the serene town of Kanakapura, just an hour’s power from the bustling city of Bangalore, lies a retreat that redefines the art of unwinding: V Nature Resorts. Nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this getaway gives a great get-away for the ones in search of reconnecting with nature at the same time as indulging in contemporary comforts. 

A natural Haven 

Nature accommodations are greater than only a vacation destination; they're a sanctuary for the senses. Surrounded via verdant hills, pristine water bodies, and tranquil forests, the lodge immerses you in nature's embody. Whether it’s the cool morning breeze or the golden glow of a sundown, every moment at the motel is infused with the beauty of the herbal international. 

The resorts additionally make it a perfect base for exploring the biodiversity of Kanakapura, a region wealthy in vegetation and fauna. 

Stay Amidst consolation and Nature 

At V Nature Resorts in Kanakapura, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the environment. Visitors can choose from rustic cottages and luxurious villas, each providing spacious interiors, comfy fixtures, and breathtaking perspectives. Massive windows and personal balconies make certain that nature is by no means far away, permitting you to awaken to the points of interest and sounds of the outdoors. 

The resort's dedication to sustainability means that your life isn't the handiest cozy; however, additionally, practices like sun strength use and waste control are integrated into day-to-day operations. 

Adventures for each visitor 

Whether or not you’re a journey fanatic or someone searching for peace, V Nature Resorts in Kanakapura has sports to fit every preference: hiking and trekking: find out scenic trails and soak within the beauty of Kanakapura hills. 

Water sports activities: revel in kayaking or take a dip within the serene lakes nearby. 

Adventure sports activities: ziplining and rappelling watch for the ones craving an adrenaline rush. 

Natural world spotting: have a look at the region’s colourful biodiversity up close. 

For those who select a slower tempo, the resort gives yoga periods, meditation spaces, and healing Ayurvedic spa remedies, ensuring holistic rest. 

A Culinary journey 

Dining at V Nature Resorts in Kanakapura is a satisfying revel in. The in-house restaurant serves an expansion of dishes made from clean, domestically sourced elements. Whether or not you crave traditional Karnataka delicacies or international cuisines, the menu is crafted to fulfil numerous tastes. Sustainable eating practices add an additional layer of thoughtfulness to every meal, making it a ceremonial dinner for the palate and the planet. 

A super Venue for All occasions 

Be it a family excursion, a romantic getaway, or a company offsite, V Nature Resorts in Kanakapura cater to all. The resort event spaces, together with conference halls and open-air venues, make it a preferred choice for weddings, crew-building sports, and celebrations. 

Plan Your Breakout 

A short, scenic power from Bangalore brings you to this haven of peace and journey. V Nature Resorts in Kanakapura is greater than just an area to live; it’s a destination in which reminiscences are made. Escape the everyday, embody the extraordinary, and allow nature to renew your spirit. 

Book your getaway nowadays and enjoy the magic of V Nature Resorts! 

[digitalblogs23]

10 Reasons to Choose Jasper House for Your Next Family Vacation

Planning a family vacation can be overwhelming—choosing the right destination, finding accommodations that everyone will enjoy, and ensuring that there’s something for every member of the family to do. If you're seeking a relaxing yet adventurous family getaway in a beautiful setting, look no further than Jasper House in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka. Here are 10 reasons why Jasper House should be your next family vacation destination.

1. Family-Friendly Accommodations

Jasper House offers spacious and comfortable rooms that are perfect for families. With a variety of room types, including family suites and rooms with balconies, there’s plenty of space for everyone to relax. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and open-air showers, making it a perfect blend of luxury and nature. Whether you're traveling with young children or teenagers, Jasper House can accommodate your family with ease. Explore Jasper House’s Rooms

2. Ideal Location Near Hiriketiya Beach

Just a short two-minute walk from the beautiful Hiriketiya Beach, Jasper House offers easy access to the coastline. Spend your days building sandcastles with your little ones, enjoying family swims, or just relaxing under the tropical sun. The beach’s calm, gentle waves make it a safe environment for children to play and swim, while the surrounding scenery provides a peaceful backdrop for the entire family to unwind.

3. A Safe and Peaceful Environment

Hiriketiya is one of Sri Lanka’s most tranquil areas, and Jasper House sits at the heart of this serene coastal town. Away from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist areas, Jasper House offers a peaceful, secure environment where children can explore freely while parents can relax knowing their family is safe and comfortable.

4. Surfing for All Ages

If your family loves adventure, then Jasper House is the perfect base for learning how to surf. Hiriketiya is famous for its gentle, beginner-friendly waves, making it a fantastic spot for kids and adults alike to take surf lessons. Whether you’ve never surfed before or are looking to improve your skills, Jasper House offers surf lessons and equipment for all levels. Learn More About Surfing at Jasper House

5. Wellness Activities for the Whole Family

At Jasper House, family wellness is a priority. In addition to surfing, you can spend quality time together practicing yoga. The hotel features a stunning rooftop yoga shala, where you can enjoy yoga sessions designed for families. It’s a wonderful way to stretch, relax, and bond together while surrounded by the natural beauty of Hiriketiya. Discover Yoga at Jasper House

6. A Variety of Activities for All Ages

Whether your family enjoys outdoor activities or indoor relaxation, Jasper House has something for everyone. From cycling tours around the lush tropical surroundings to snorkeling in the nearby waters, you’ll never run out of fun things to do. You can also take part in family-friendly cooking classes or simply relax by the pool and enjoy a quiet afternoon. The range of activities ensures that every member of the family will have a great time.

7. Delicious and Family-Friendly Dining

At Jasper House, you’ll find a variety of meal options suitable for every family member. The open-air restaurant serves a mix of Sri Lankan and international cuisines, with options for picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free. The friendly staff ensures that meals are both enjoyable and accommodating, making it an ideal dining experience for families.

8. Connection to Nature

What better way to connect as a family than by immersing yourselves in nature? Jasper House is designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment, offering plenty of opportunities for families to explore and reconnect with the outdoors. Take a walk through the lush coconut groves, enjoy the fresh air, or simply relax on your balcony, enjoying the stunning views of the ocean and tropical gardens.

9. A Cultural Experience for the Whole Family

Sri Lanka is a country rich in history and culture, and Jasper House offers several opportunities for families to learn about the local traditions. You can take guided tours around the area, visit nearby villages, or explore cultural landmarks like temples and local markets. The hotel also organizes cultural activities like cooking classes where families can learn how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes together.

Explore More About Hiriketiya

10. Commitment to Sustainability

If sustainability is important to your family, you’ll love that Jasper House is committed to eco-friendly practices. From energy-efficient designs to waste management and local sourcing, the hotel is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Hiriketiya. Your stay at Jasper House means you’re supporting responsible tourism, which makes it an even more meaningful family getaway.

Conclusion: Why Jasper House is the Ideal Family Destination

From spacious rooms and family-friendly activities to a peaceful location and commitment to sustainability, Jasper House offers everything your family needs for a perfect vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this beautiful boutique hotel in Hiriketiya has something for everyone. Book your stay at Jasper House today and start making lasting memories with your loved ones.

[aristonitservices]

Why Wireframing Matters in UI/UX Design

Wireframing is like the blueprint stage in building a house: it’s where ideas take shape. It’s the starting point that lets you sketch out basic layouts without the bells and whistles. When you wireframe, you’re deciding where buttons, menus, and content blocks will go, and you’re planning how users will flow through the app or site. Wireframing gives you the freedom to experiment and make decisions before diving into full-on UI/UX development. Without it, you might end up creating a beautiful design that’s confusing to navigate, or worse, fails to meet the user’s needs altogether.

Planning with Precision

Wireframing lets you focus purely on structure, leaving colors, images, and fonts for later. It’s all about function at this stage—where do users start, where do they go next, and what are the main actions they need to take? You can think of it like sketching out a map for an adventure. The map helps you plot your journey before you add the landmarks. This precision in planning helps you avoid costly adjustments down the line, whether you’re working on a simple app or an intricate website.

For more guidance on UI/UX design, check out our services to see how we can help bring your ideas to life.

Bringing Clarity to Prototyping

One of the biggest benefits of wireframing is that it brings clarity early on. In a wireframe, you can clearly define the navigation paths, call-to-action placements, and any features your app or website might have. This kind of clarity is crucial for prototyping because it means everyone—from designers to developers—understands the vision. When the team is on the same page, you’re much more likely to achieve the desired UI/UX outcome without endless rounds of revisions. It’s like setting up guardrails that keep your project moving in the right direction.

Simplifying Feedback with Mock-Ups

Wireframes simplify feedback, making it easier for stakeholders to see and understand the user flow without distractions. Wireframes are easy to adjust, so feedback doesn’t result in a cascade of design changes. Unlike high-fidelity mock-ups, which can be time-consuming to modify, wireframes can quickly adapt based on input, giving everyone a sneak peek into the final structure. Plus, because wireframes focus on layout and functionality, they help clients or stakeholders stay focused on what matters most—the usability and logical flow of the design, not just how pretty it looks.

The Role of Wireframing in UI/UX Development

When working in UI/UX development, wireframes serve as a bridge between brainstorming and final design. In fact, wireframes are the skeletal foundation of your UI/UX design process. Imagine you’re trying to solve a puzzle, and each wireframe piece you place helps you see the big picture. This structural clarity guides the subsequent stages in UI and UX design, from visual style choices to the creation of high-fidelity prototypes. Wireframes also reduce risk by addressing potential user pain points early on, allowing you to prioritize an intuitive user experience.

Choosing the Right Tools for Wireframing

Wireframing tools like Figma, Sketch, and Adobe XD make it easy to create and adjust wireframes, even for non-designers. These tools often have drag-and-drop components, so you can create mock-ups without needing to code. With cloud-based wireframing tools, collaboration is a breeze, too. Team members can leave comments, suggest changes, and track progress in real time. This keeps everyone aligned, even if they’re working remotely. The right tool can turn a simple wireframe into a powerful collaborative asset for UI/UX design and development.

Making User-Centric Designs

At the heart of every successful app or website is a user-centered design, and wireframes are a huge part of this. Wireframes allow you to step into the user’s shoes, considering their actions, needs, and pain points. By focusing solely on functionality and flow, wireframes help you design with empathy, building pathways that make sense to the user. If a wireframe stage reveals any potential confusion or complexity, you can adjust without fuss. This early stage focus on usability can be the difference between a design that’s functional and one that’s truly intuitive.

The Magic of Low-Fidelity Wireframes

Low-fidelity wireframes, the roughest sketch style, are perfect for quick experimentation. These aren’t meant to look pretty; they’re just lines and boxes representing structure. Low-fidelity wireframes are often hand-drawn or created in simple software, and they’re a great way to brainstorm ideas without committing too much time. They give you a simple and fast way to map out basic app or website layouts, so you can rapidly iterate. Once you’ve nailed down the layout, you can move on to higher-fidelity wireframes, adding more detail and polish.

Testing User Flow Early On

Wireframes let you test the user journey right from the start. Are users able to find what they need? Are actions intuitive? Wireframing lets you create a basic click-through prototype, giving users (or stakeholders) a chance to experience the navigation and overall layout before visuals come into play. By evaluating user flow early, you ensure that the finished design will be smooth and functional, reducing the risk of confusion down the line.

Iterating Quickly with Wireframes

The beauty of wireframing lies in its flexibility. Wireframes are inherently easy to change, making it simple to try new layouts or features without committing too much time. Need to move a menu? Swap positions? Wireframes let you make these adjustments instantly, which means you can explore multiple layout options quickly. This flexibility is especially useful in UI/UX development, where testing different designs before settling on one can lead to a more user-friendly experience.

Wrapping It Up

Wireframing isn’t just about creating a skeleton—it’s about shaping the user’s journey from the very beginning. It’s the tool that helps you see if your ideas work before you invest in the visuals. Whether you’re sketching a low-fidelity layout on paper or designing a high-fidelity wireframe in Figma, wireframing sets the foundation for a seamless UI/UX design. It helps everyone involved see the direction, understand the purpose, and collaborate more effectively, creating the groundwork for a standout user experience.

For more on how wireframing can improve your next design, visit Ariston IT Services and explore our solutions!

[singsthecagelessbird]

I think the most painful thing that can happen to someone is discovering that everything they thought, felt, believed, and acted upon wasn’t true. Some people are living in a fabricated reality, a true web of lies, and they just don’t know it yet. By the time they come to know, the yarn will be too entangled to escape unscathed. Do you know how many lies it takes to cover just one? Reality is personal—it’s always closer to home. It’s the foundation of sanity.

Yet someday, you wake up to the realisation that it was all a lie—that you were perharps a pawn in someone else’s elaborate game or adventure. It feels as if the Almighty is playing chess with your life. There is no pain greater than the one that shatters someone’s reality. And you wonder, what was ever true? You keep circling that web of lies, searching for even a morsel of truth. That’s how sanity is lost.

The reason why death and loss are difficult to bear is because reality is a fabric that doesn’t wear away easily. It’s engraved onto your skin, and accepting loss means shedding that layer of skin because it no longer serves as truth. This is bound to hurt as hell. Every now and then, we have to discard certain lies we once believed to be true, and that is not easy.

When someone dies or we lose something of sentimental value like a relationship, there is a truth we have to embrace in place of the one we held. It could be that it was never true or just outdated. In the case of death, it’s about accepting what death truly is and asking fewer questions. Sucks! In the case of a broken relationship, it’s understanding that people can be capricious and promises can always be broken. We all do what we have to do. Reality is often disappointing.

When people die, we ask ourselves all these questions that have no answers. The truth is, in that moment of grief, we don’t even know what we truly want. But we certainly don’t want them to resurrect, do we? Yet we search for something. Maybe a comforting place to lay our broken heart while reality slowly sinks in. The reality is that death is a part of life, and it will happen to us, our parents, our children, and our friends, at any time and in any way, whether we want it to or not. It’s a scary thought, and that’s why we find comfort in pretending it’s not real.

The loss of a relationship, however, feels different. It’s the loss of something intentional, a personal investment. A reality built by two people, based on what they know about each other and the words they shared. It’s a reality so fragile that one lie or inconsistency can bring down its walls. Someone once told me that people stay together because of what they’ve built together. I thought it meant only tangible things like businesses, houses, and children. But people also build trust, hope, truth, and reality, largely through dialogue. They even build their lives around each other. We trust what we see and hear, and we invest in it. We invest time, effort, mind, body, and soul. The loss of a relationship is the loss of that investment and the shedding of a reality that wasn’t easy to build.

All of these things define and shape our existence. It is our subjective truths that define how we experience life. When we feed ourselves and each other lies, we toy with the truth. A real recipe for disaster. Reality is not something to be romanticised.

[foodloveslondon]

Em's Coffee: A Cozy Corner for Fresh Coffee and European-Inspired Cuisine in Whetstone

Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Whetstone, Em's Coffee has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike who seek a perfect blend of quality coffee, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere. With its focus on delivering freshly brewed specialty coffees, alongside a menu inspired by European cuisine, Em's Coffee is the ideal place to relax, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

Coffee Crafted to Perfection

At Em's Coffee, the star of the show is undoubtedly the coffee. The cafe takes great pride in serving freshly brewed cups, each prepared by skilled baristas using high-quality, freshly ground coffee beans. Whether you prefer a robust espresso, a smooth latte, or a frothy cappuccino, Em's Coffee ensures that every cup is made to perfection, catering to the tastes of true coffee lovers.

For those looking to try something a little different, the cafe also offers a selection of specialty coffees, including flavored lattes and seasonal creations that bring an extra twist to your coffee experience.

A Delicious Menu of European-Inspired Dishes

Em's Coffee isn't just about great coffee—it's also a destination for food lovers. The menu features a wide variety of dishes that are inspired by European cuisine, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re stopping by for a light breakfast, a hearty lunch, or an indulgent afternoon treat, Em's Coffee has something to satisfy your cravings.

One of the highlights of the menu is the selection of freshly baked pastries, which are made in-house daily. From buttery croissants to sweet danishes, these delicious pastries pair perfectly with a cup of coffee and are the ideal way to start your day.

For lunch, Em's Coffee offers a range of sandwiches, wraps, and salads, all made to order using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The sandwiches, crafted with artisan bread and premium fillings, provide a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic combination or something more adventurous, the menu offers plenty of options to choose from.

Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

One of the things that sets Em's Coffee apart is its warm and inviting atmosphere. The cafe is designed to feel like a cozy retreat, with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and a relaxed vibe that makes it the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you’re catching up with friends, enjoying some quiet time with a book, or having a casual meeting, Em's Coffee provides the perfect setting.

The cafe’s friendly staff add to the welcoming experience, ensuring that every guest feels at home from the moment they walk through the door. Their dedication to excellent service and attention to detail have helped Em's Coffee build a loyal customer base that appreciates both the food and the atmosphere.

Perfect for Any Time of Day

Whether you're looking for a quick coffee on the go, a leisurely lunch, or a place to work remotely for the day, Em's Coffee caters to all your needs. The versatile menu and relaxed environment make it the perfect destination for any time of day, offering something for everyone, whether you're in the mood for a simple snack or a full meal.

For those in a hurry, Em's Coffee also offers takeaway options, allowing you to enjoy your favorite coffee and food wherever you are.

Affordable and High-Quality

At Em's Coffee, the emphasis is on offering high-quality food and drinks at affordable prices. The cafe believes that great coffee and fresh, delicious meals should be accessible to everyone, and this philosophy is reflected in its pricing. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or sitting down for a full lunch, you can enjoy top-notch food and drinks without breaking the bank.

Visit Em's Coffee Today

For coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike, Em's Coffee offers a delightful experience in the heart of Whetstone. With its freshly brewed coffees, delicious European-inspired menu, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the finer things in life.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, Em's Coffee invites you to discover why it has become a favorite in the local community.