#building up.| kula

[sentofight]

ooc. something to note about the way k.ula speaks. it is just my own thing, no need to 'accept it.'

It is noticeable that k.ula uses her name instead of pronoun (I) but when she talks about other people she uses pronouns normally. e.g. "Kula wants to eat." "Diana says we need to win! She said it is important!" or even she mimics others to tease them e.g. "Look at me. I'm stoic K'!"

This is called "Illeism". It is defined as ["from Latin ille: “he; that man”) is the act of referring to oneself in the third person instead of first person. It is sometimes used in literature as a stylistic device. In real-life usage, illeism can reflect a number of different stylistic intentions or involuntary circumstances.]

For K.ula, it is more psychological, than a fun way of speaking. In some sites and articles they state that people usually use this for these reasons:

Formality

Authority

Third-person perspective

Self-soothing

Psychological reasons

Habit or personal preference

of course, there are other reasons but to keep things condensed and straight to the point, we will look at these. So, one and two are off the table since we are talking about k.ula.

Before I talk about the reasons, I should note ku.la's condition and her environment. to make things short k.ula was kidnapped when she was a child by NESTs, got experimented on, and due to that the side effect of her gaining her cryokinesis powers was her mental state which made her remain in a child like state. So, as you can surmise you will expect childlike behavior from her even if she grows older. body wise. To add, she was brainwashed to be a killer. AND her first ever friend, Candy died. She lost Candy who taught her about friendship and emotions which were are locked inside of her due to the experiments. Factor all that when she finally regained some semblance of control over her emotions when she left NESTS. Now, let's look at the reasons.

Third-person perspective: it can help the speaker to be detached from what they are saying. This can be a reason why K.ula uses her name when she talks. She had spent years not part of the real world. She was unaware of it until she regained her conscious and now she is obligated to learn manners and such. So, it is sort of rebel against the world that she is finding annoying to learn its rules at this age. It is a way to separate herself emotionally from what she says because let's face it, more mental shocks like candy's loss can send her into a shock for sure.

self-soothing: basically to sooth herself and self support herself. Waking up to know she was just an experiment and her goal was to kill k and with that goal gone, is she needed? that probably something remains in the back of her mind--probably she is clueless to it but it will bubble up to the surface whenever k` is in danger. if she can't kill him nor protect him, what is her worth? she is made to do something and she failed to do it. living a normal life is not that easy either. so whenever she uses her name it is like almost affirming that this is her--her identity. Her name is Kula. Yes, Kula. Just Kula.

Psychological reasons: for me, self-soothing is part of this since this reason deals with how one will use illeism to gain attention, validation, or cope with low self esteem or identity issues which i mentioned above. as said before, her mental health is a rock bottom with the amount of experiments done on her and to gain 'freedom of thoughts' is a scary thing. To suddenly be thrust in this world with ZERO, like really ZERO life experience because everything was wiped clean from her mind. in her eyes, everything is new and worth exploring. some mundane things for people will be the most confusing and perplexing for her. Kula has a childlike personality thus it would make sense if she wants people's attention when she speaks. Give her attention, give her time, hence, gaining new experiences she can learn from. Thus, why she too asks a lot of questions like a child would do.

Habit or personal preference: someone's habit, no real reason. This one I don't personally see because all k.ula's speech pattern and actions stem from the big issue which is her mental state--of being a child in a body that passed that mentality, and a world that moved on without her.

Now that is explained, I will say that this is but a condition. Until K.ula feels safe in the world, learns (or relearns) what she missed, feels attached to the world around here and the people, she will eventually stops using illeism and starts using normal speech.

For example, in early encounters of k.ula she will heavily use illeism. She relies on it in her communication--kind of a way to tell you, the receiver that when it comes to conversation she is amateur so you don't expect a lot out of her.

As she gets comfortable, she will try to switch between her name and pronoun I. Surely, Diane, Foxy, Whip (Seirah) and with Maxima's help trying to remind K.ula of using the proper pronoun. Eventually, she will cut back on using illeism and assert herself more with proper language and grammar. Just hang in there! Let her learn and explore and be comfortable to get out of the safe zone that is 'being a child' to evolve into a proper person! that's pretty much what I wanted to say because I think i need to address it before someone thinks i'm doing what i want--SIKE I AM DOING WHAT I WANT AAHAHAHAHAH.

[fuzzkaizer]

OBERHEIM - ring modulator

" Mostly known for his synth ventures these days (think Van Halen’s “Jump”), Oberheim grew up studying physics and building amps, which led to his career as a computer engineer. Eventually, he discovered that music gear was his true passion after designing an effect written about by Harald Bode in an issue of Electronics Magazine. He parlayed this passion into a budding career in guitar effects and synthesizers, releasing the first pedal-style ring modulator and phase shifter.

 Now, after surveying the cabinet’s contents, I realize that there is not another piece within it that is even tangentially linked to Bode, and his place in the effects business is small but oh so important. The spirit of this column would be remiss without acknowledging his contributions to the field, so here goes.

Apart from being the first man to publish an article about ring modulators, he was also the first to sell them under his own name. Bode also played a crucial role in the adaptation of tubes to solid-state transistors, as well as the advent of the vocoder, a device now known as “that robot voice effect” but originally used by WW2 intelligence officials to encrypt high-clearance conversations between world leaders. Bode was the man, and don’t you forget it.

So it should come as no surprise that Oberheim’s Ring Modulator is perhaps the most sublime example of the effect—in both aesthetics and tonality—despite being the first “pedal” version with many subsequent contenders to the throne, yet nary a usurper. As far as its modern practicality is concerned, there’s a reason you don’t see any on any pedalboard anywhere, beyond the pedal’s insane price point and collectibility.

For one, the thing is as big as a phone book. If that’s not enough, the two switches in front are—you guessed it—toggles. There’s a jack in the front that one might think is for an auxiliary footswitch, but alas, it is for a “control pedal.” Fortunately, this made the pedal a boon for keyboadists, especially those favoring the Rhodes piano. Jan Hammer of Mahavishnu Orchestra made significant use of one (in addition to other Oberheim-designed goodies) on several tracks, one of which I’ll link below (3:28).

Ring modulators work by using an internal pitch called a carrier frequency, which is derived from a ring of components, which modulates the input signal. Unlike many ring modulators that stick you with one carrier value, Oberheim’s version offers you a plethora of carrier options, with the option to output the oscillator itself to other effects, supply your own carrier oscillator (thereby making the pedal a throughput processor), as well as two switchable carrier frequency ranges and many more options under the hood.

If you know how to dial in ring modulators (sadly, a dying art), you’d be hard-pressed to find a better sounding unit than Oberheim’s original. And because finding one is so hard, there’s a good chance you may never get to play one. True to most geniuses of the craft, Oberheim’s device relied on then-cutting-edge tech, using an MC1495 four-quadrant multiplier chip that has long since crossed over to the tech graveyard.

Lastly, it begs to be mentioned that the Oberheim Ring Modulator may very well feature my favorite pedal art of all time—the whole shebang looks like a Devo album cover. Oberheim’s “muscly note” is simply one of the coolest logos ever, and the incredible and thorough attention to detail give it beauty with brains to match."

cred: catalinbread.com/blogs/kulas-cabinet/oberheim-ring-modulator

[thereader-radhika]

3- Uncharacteristic Behaviours

Parts 1 , 2

It was midnight but it looked like morning due to the light of all lamps that were lit in and around the temple. Floral garlands of several colours decorated its walls and pillars. Cool breeze from the nearby river blew into the temple but the lamps miraculously stayed intact. Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevan gazed into the temple as he heard a sweet song.

Aazhi mazhai kanna! Onrum nee kai karavel Aazhiyul pukku mugarnndhu kodaarththeri Oozhimudalvan uruvam pol mei karuthu Paazhiyan tholudai Padmanabhan kaiyil ...

Some old women danced before the idol of Muraleedharan, holding flower garlands. Has he gotten so old that young beauties won't grace him even in his dreams? He closed his eyes and slowly massaged his aching neck. The women or the decorations were nowhere to be seen when he looked again.

A abstruse fear gripped his heart as he walked away, so he decided to go back. But a garland made of white lotus buds was floating against the current of the river. How is this possible? It stopped floating and sunk into the bottom of the river as Vanthiyathevan stood there transfixed. Then the dancers' prayers were answered and the rain drenched him.

No, it was his nephew, the crown prince, who poured a pot of water on him.

***********

". . . Ravikulamanikyam, Mummudi Chola devar, Kandhaloor Salai Kalamarutta Keralanthakan, Pandiya Kula Sani, Cholendrasimhan, Korajakesari, Tribhuvanachakravarti Konerinmaikondan Raja Raja-devar . . . "

Mama's and his titles were too announced as the royal entourage entered the captured palace. Appa squirmed as he heard the name 'Maduranthakar' again and again. Who asked paatti to name him after her runaway son? Young Maduranthakan still doubted if this was an elaborate prank they all pulled on him. How could a Pandya king grow up as the Chola emperor's son?

Appa asked mama to deal with the officials and ordered Madu not to disturb him unless it is an emergency before retiring to some chambers he claimed for himself. He pretended not to care but mama's nightmares have scared him too. Could this be a vision about impeding heavy rains and flooding? If it rains now, it will affect the movement of their reinforcements and supplies.

Madu entered his father's room and sat beside him. Why isn't he talking to the soldiers and commanders and cheering them up as usual? Is he upset about the the other Maduranthakan?

"Are you alright, appa?"

"I am. Give me a quick update on today's developments".

"Half of the aabathudavigal have escaped with the women and a prince who might lay claim to the throne. Velakkara padai met an old woman at the eastern boundary of the palace complex asking for 'Ponniyin Selvan'. People here really hate us but don't worry. Mama has written to athai to send reinforcements and supplies. I suggest a system of food - rationing until they calm down and more supplies arrive".

"Old woman?"

Maduranthakan was already regretting reporting it. It reminded him of the Singala Nachiyar who saved appa in his youth. Her story was so sad and unsettling. He stopped talking to girls after learning about her death. Hasn't Poonguzhali paatti too said that these girls have the bad habit of building castles in the air if handsome men treat them nicely? Though he isn't that handsome, what if they catch unnecessary feelings for him?

"Bring her here. No, it is impossible. I will order rationing until we secure our holdings. Don't mention a word to your mama. These aabathudavigal manage to do it every damn time".

What has come over his usually calm and composed appa? He might not be used to people turning against him but they will overcome this. Madu had no idea how to deal with this situation but what will the common soldiers think if their emperor is flustered like this?

"You are rambling, appa. Everything will be fine".

A strange expression appeared on appa's face. He looked naughty like the times when they used to sneak away from amma and athai and go on small adventures with mama.

"My son, it is the logistics and supplies that win wars. I have sent Aprameyan to take account of the food and grain reserves. Further orders will be issued on the basis of his report. You too assist him and learn to make such calculations. If I want any help from you, I will send for you".

If Maduranthakan had any doubts, they were quickly dispelled. Now he was sure that Appa is definitely up to some mischief. Does he expect him to make the list of rice and vegetables in the kitchen? He will show him!

‌Maduranthakan is the son of Vanathi and Arulmozhi. He would later take the name Rajendran. He is 14/15 years old in this fic.

‌Aprameyan is a general of Rajarajan.

Part 4

@willkatfanfromasia @sakhiiii @sampigehoovu @sambaridli @sowlspace @favcolourrvibgior @ambidextrousarcher

[nspwriteups]

Sakhi : Chapter 2

Here is the second chapter of Sakhi . This is a parallel to AK and Kundavai's conversation from the movie but here Nandini's location is unknown.

"Anna" Kundavai began but Aditha cut her off "What is the topic of discussion this time, thanggai?" He asked sarcastically, hinting that she always comes up to persuade him to do one thing or the other.

"I did tell you earlier" She said "That there is a conspiracy happening to bring about the destruction of Choza Nadu. You are the crown prince. You must come to Tanjore to protect our father. That is his wish" 

Aditha began to walk through the corridor with Kundavai trailing behind "Is that whi he send you here?" He asked before nodded at some soldiers who bowed before them while they passed.

"Everyone is afraid to talk to you, Anna" She reminded him of his intimidating persona "That is why I am here, to take you back to Tanjore ". Aditha knew he had a rash attitude and that his sister always knew how to confront him on it. "I don't want to come to Tanjore. I have lots of works to do here" He stopped walking, also signifying an end to the conversation but his sister was equally stubborn. 

" Are you still downing in your misery because of Nandini?" She asked exasperated and immediately regretted opening up another argument as he stared at her. "Not because of Nandini, but because of you. The emperor didn't drive her out of the kingdom. You did" 

There was a minute of silence as Kundavai thought of counterarguing him, like always. She had her reasons which no matter how much she tried to explain, passed right through his stubbornness. But she would always keep on trying, to make him understand, why she thought it was necessary. "Yes, I was the one who told the queen about her. She sent the soldiers to throw her out" 

Aditha glared at her " My life was ruined!" 

"It was for your own good!" 

"You were jealous" Aditha said.Even though he lost track of how many times they had such similar arguments, he couldn't help but mention Nandini in every conversation he had and defend her whenever Kundavai said getting Nandini out of his life was 'for his own good' "Her beauty and intelligence put yours to shame". He wanted to rile her up, wanted her to admit that she was jealous of his Nandini but Kundavai remained stoic "She was an orphan. She didn't even know her lineage. She could not be a Chola queen" She explained "I am not just your sister but also, a princess of the realm. What matters to me are the Chola people. None of us matters more" Aditha nodded and another minute of silence fell upon them. He was proud of his sister, he really was. When he first saw her step foot into the royal politics, he had his share of doubts and insecurities. On whether she would be able to handle such pressurising game of thrones and power. He was also cautious of any danger she might fall into but to his surprise, she rose to become such a fine woman that all the Choza people admired and loved. And so he was proud. He still is. But did she had to build her stack of startegies to protect Choza Nadu by stomping on his heart? 

"You took her away from me and turned me into a monster" He said looking away because he didn't had the strength to look at her. He did said those words to make her feel some guilt, some hurt just like he feels when he think about his long-lost love, but he also didn't wanted to watch his sister cry because that would break his resolve. "I was indifferent to her tears. I lost her. Since then, day and night she continues to haunt me. I don't know where she is now, no matter how much I try to search. It's like God refuses to make me meet her again" 

Kundavai felt her heart tighten. She never meant for this to happen. To turn her loving brother into a disillusioned lovelorn shell of a human. All she wanted…. She felt her eyes pricken with tears and hurried to wipe them off because she didn't wanted her brother to see her cry. 

Unknown to the both of them, a certain Vana Kula Prince was watching the verbal exchange from the start, hiding behind a pillar,his heart heavy on seeing the look of defeat in his Uyir Thozan's face and the woman he has come to love fighting back silent tears.

A/N: only the convo is taken from the movie with very slight edits. I am writing this on the go with very little pre-planning so if u have any suggestions or plot ideas u want to share, feel free to do so…eagerly waiting to hear your thoughts. Thank you ☺️

@ramcharanobsessed @dumdaradumdaradum @vibishalakshman @harinishivaa @hollogramhallucination @kovaipaavai@rang-lo. @willkatfanfromasia@thelekhikawrites@thegleamingmoon@deafeningflowercat@yehsahihai@whippersnappersbookworm@itsfookingloosah@gemsmusings@chiyaanvikram@elvenladysakura. @matka-kulfi. @madatdisney@bumblebeeskywalker@vahnithedreamer@nkarti@dosai-maavu@utterlynotperfect@winter-birds@happy-bookworm @tumbledout @anabanana4115 @freeunknownwasteland @bhataktiatmacore@rapunzels-stuff@celestesinsight@mairablue@rationalelderberry@existenceiswhateven@arachneofthoughts@spider5884fan11 @cara-2003 @nirmohi-premika @stella12 @thereader-radhika

[dailyanarchistposts]

Dedication & Epigraph

No more talk about the old days, it’s time for something great. I want you to get out and make it work... Thom Yorke

Dedicated to the wonderful people of RuinAmalia, La Revoltosa, and the Kyiv infoshop, for making anarchy work.

Although this book started out as an individual project, in the end a great many people, most of whom prefer to remain anonymous, helped make it possible through proofreading, fact-checking, recommending sources, editing, and more. To acknowledge only a small part of this help, the author would like to thank John, Jose, Vila Kula, aaaa!, L, J, and G for providing computer access throughout a year of moves, evictions, crashes, viruses, and so forth. Thanks to Jessie Dodson and Katie Clark for helping with the research on another project, that I ended up using for this book. Also thanks to C and E, for lending their passwords for free access to the databases of scholarly articles available to university students but not to the rest of us.

* * * * *

There are hidden stories all around us, growing in abandoned villages in the mountains or vacant lots in the city, petrifying beneath our feet in the remains of societies like nothing we’ve known, whispering to us that things could be different. But the politician you know is lying to you, the manager who hires and fires you, the landlord who evicts you, the president of the bank that owns your house, the professor who grades your papers, the cop who rolls your street, the reporter who informs you, the doctor who medicates you, the husband who beats you, the mother who spanks you, the soldier who kills for you, and the social worker who fits your past and future into a folder in a filing cabinet all ask “WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITHOUT US? It would be anarchy.”

* * * * *

And the daughter who runs away from home, the bus driver on the picket line, the veteran who threw back his medal but holds on to his rifle, the boy saved from suicide by the love of his friends, the maid who must bow to those who can’t even cook for themselves, the immigrant hiking across a desert to find her family on the other side, the kid on his way to prison because he burned down a shopping mall they were building over his childhood dreams, the neighbor who cleans up the syringes from the vacant lot, hoping someone will turn it into a garden, the hitchhiker on the open road, the college dropout who gave up on career and health insurance and sometimes even food so he could write revolutionary poetry for the world, maybe all of us can feel it: our bosses and tormentors are afraid of what they would do without us, and their threat is a promise — the best parts of our lives are anarchy already.

[thevampyreking]

BASICS

FULL NAME: CHAKRII ARIKUN

» MEANING: Chakrii [ Means ‘king’ and is a very important name in Thai culture; pronounced JAK-gree. ] Arikun [ Possibly from Thai อารย (araya) meaning "superior, noble, civilized" and กุล (kun), a transcription of Pali kula meaning "clan". ]

VERSE: Night Shift; The Meaning of Forever;  Serendipity

NICKNAME(S): King

AGE: 213-years old but appears to be 30, he stopped aging at this age. And we want to bite his face.

DATE OF BIRTH: 1810 January 1st. My man's a Capricorn.

PLACE OF BIRTH: Bangkok, Thailand.

OCCUPATION: Founder of DUANG JAN AGENCY.

SPECIES: Vampire-human.

SEXUALITY: Bisexual; Biromantic.

GENDER: Cisgender male.

POWERS

Day walking

Fast healing

Superhuman strength

Doesn't have to drink blood to survive but he STILL has to drink it or he'll get weak

Slow aging; if he continues to drink blood, he can achieve immortality

I'm including richness coz his vamp family came from OLD MONEY, so he's mad rich, too, like, why not

PERSONALITY

STRENGTHS: Responsible, Disciplined, Self-control, Loyal, Trustworthy

WEAKNESSES: Unforgiving, Condescending, Stubborn, Obsessive, Controlling

APPEARANCE

FACE CLAIM: Max Kornthas Rujeerattanavorapan.

HEIGHT: 5′11 ft. [182  cm.]

WEIGHT: 143 lbs. [65 kg.]

BUILD: Athletic.

GAIT: TBA.

HAIR COLOR: Dark brown.

EYE COLOR: Brown.

BIRTHMARK: Yes.

OVERVIEW: » SCARS:  Various scars.

» TATTOOS: None but he'd like some. He got them in the past but they fade away quicker than on regular human.

BACKGROUND

HOMETOWN: Bangkok, Thailand.

RESIDENCES: Main is in Bangkok but he has houses all over the country. He spends a lot of time up-north where his mother was from.

NATIONALITY: Thai.

ETHNICITY: Asian.

FINANCIAL STATUS: Upper, upper, upper class.

EDUCATION LEVEL: University graduate.

DEGREES: Business management, human resources, etc.

SPOKEN LANGUAGES: Thai is King's first language, he studied abroad and is fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Russian. He can also speak Korean, Mandarin, and Japanese.

RELATIONSHIPS

PARENTS: Niah Chiasuk [miother, d. ]; Mongkut Arikun [ father ]

SIBLINGS: Several. He is the only part-human.

CHILDREN: None.

PETS: None.

SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIPS: » A young companion from the North.

FAMILY HISTORY: King was born to a human mother who was sickly. His vampire father loved his human mother but she never turned because she didn't see the point in it. She always said that "we use what we are given and make the best out of it." King's father respected King's mother's wishes but then they found out that she had a heart problem that cannot be fixed and either her or King would live if she was to continue living the way she was surviving.

Niah decided that she was going to sustain her child inside her while her sleeping body was being preserved, using whatever life was left in her to keep King alive.

The plan succeeded and King was born healthy and right after, Niah died.

King was raised by his mother's mother and mother's brother together with his vampire father who belongs to one of the noble clans in the country.

King was never made feel guilty of what happened to his mother. Instead, he was told of how his mother loved him that she nurtured him until she passed.

King grew up happy and encouraged to be who he wanted to be.

As he grew up, he was taught the way of their life, politics and business...

The Arikun Clan is one of the neutral clans in the vampire world. They campaign for peace and living side by side with other beings.

King became the foster child for that campaign which he fully took on as he loves the work. However, several problems began brewing, starting in a realm in South Korea and then Sanguine.

It was getting hard to be neutral and soon enough, King knew, he would have to pick a side.

ROMANTIC HISTORY: Arikun Clan has a tradition of taking in companions that will serve them. This tradition continues on but it evolves into a non-problematic situation mostly for the companion. The companions who came from a long line of loyal servants from thousands of years ago are no longer obligated to take on the job and are offered positions in various companies the clan owns.

King never really took on a companion and fed his needs whenever nature called. However, recently, a young northerner from the same line of servants caught his interest. He offered the young human's family a big 'dowry' which they accepted.

King is very fond of this companion and takes him everywhere.

THOUGHTS ON LOVE: “Something my mother had with my father...”

HEALTH

PHOBIA(S): None.

HANDICAP(S): None.

MENTAL DISEASE(S): None that he is aware of.

PHYSICAL DISEASE(S): None.

PREDISPOSITION(S): Alcoholism... His vampire family LOVES moonshine and all those strong local brews. He doesn't get drunk easily but he can get a really bad headache the following day.

[ome-magical-ramblings]

The Golden/Magical Chain, and Lineages....egregores? the open secret to initiation into the mysteries.

One of the aspects that's often undervalued or overlooked in initation is the living breathing lineage we have of the prophets and saints themselves to initiate us. We often either look too critically into Prophets lives or put them on a pedestal, the reality of them acting as initiators for us into traditions is undeniable.

The only proof I can give you about their existence is to look at their image, visit their graves, talk to their image and they will speak. The prophets are just the same as archangels and they didn't "go anywhere".

Just like the people beseech in the name of magical barbarous names, you can beseech or call in the names of the prophets. There are many signs you can see when you do indeed get in touch with them the scriptures opens up. Just like a temple you used to look at before you're allowed inside to see it from the inside. (Quran 50:16) Indeed, ˹it is˺ We ˹Who˺ created humankind and ˹fully˺ know what their souls whisper to them, and We are closer to them than ˹their˺ jugular vein The scripture themselves are holy building and the access to them is the prophets. This is imam Ali's Shrine from outside:

It's so beautiful and breath-taking, but what if you asked and prayed to Ali to be allowed entry into his mysteries? how would it look like? what's the inside of it?

or Hagia Sophia

or the church of Nativity

To end this, the abrahamic religions are enlivened by our connections to the prophets and saints and not just by the letters on the paper. Once you call, the scripture and letters become from letters on paper to letters of God, the word of God are alive and breathing, you don't NEED to look elsewhere but it helps. In this spirit of my blog, that I always end my blog with something practical I decided to translate this section from Al Zalitini's Kashkool/Notebook. Which leads to seeing the prophet(Mohammed) in sleep/dream. but I assume the intention can lead to any prophet you have in your heart. بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم  بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم اللهم صل على محمد واله و صحبه و سلم بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم بسم الله النور على النور و الحمدالله مدبر الامور الحمدالله الذي خلق الظلمات و النور و أنزل التوراة على جبل الطور في كتاب مسطور و الحمدالله الذي بالثناء مذكور و بالعز والجلال مشهور  وعلى السراء والضراء مشكور  و الحمدالله الذي خلق السموات و الارض و جعل الظلمات و النور ثم الذين كفروا بربهـم يعدلون .كهيعص(كهميعص) حمعسق إياك نعبد وإياك نستعين يا حي يا قيوم بك استعنت الله لطيف بعباده يرزق من يشاء وهو القوي العزيز يا كافي كل شيء اكفني من كل شيء واصرف عني كل شيء فإنك قادر على كل شيء  سبحان الله ولا إله إلا الله و الحمد لله و الله أكبر ولا حول ولا قوة إلا بالله العلي العظيم وصل الله على سيدنا محمد و على اله و صحبه و سلم. Bism Allah Alrahman Alrahimi  O God, bless Muhammad, his family, and his companions, and peace be upon Muhammad, his family, and his companions. Bism Allah Alrahman Alrahimi, By the name of Allah, Light upon Light, Praise be to Allah, Ruler of affairs, who created the darkness and the light and sent down the Torah on the Mount of Tabor in a written book. Praise to Allah, praised by his mention, famous by his glory and honor, For better or worse we thank him. Praise to Allah who built the heaven and earth, created darkness and light. O those who disbelieve their God will be judged, Kaf-Ha-Ya-Ayin-Sad , Ha-Meem-Ayin-Seen-Qaf. You alone do we worship, and You alone do we turn for help. O Hayy, O Qayyum, I take you as my refuge, Allah is Gentle with His servants; He gives provisions to whom He wills. And He is the Powerful, the Exalted in Might. Ya Kafi Kula Shay Sustain me from everything, and dismiss everything from me, for you're able to do everything. Glory to Allah, There is no God but Allah, Praise be to Allah, Allah is Great, There is no power, no strength but from Allah the High Almighty blessings and peace upon Mohammed , and his family and companions. Amen.

In the end, I find it funny that this photo was always there in our house, telling me that the prophets are ALIVE and reaching out to us!

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Adam Kula

Published: May 20, 2024

'Either you believe in free speech for views you dislike - or you don't believe in it at all' - Message to Queen's University Belfast from academics after Northern Irish institution pledges its enthusiasm for free expression and conscience

Either you believe in freedom of speech for views you dislike, or you don't believe in freedom of speech.

That is the message to Queen's University Belfast from major international academic Peter Boghossian, after it issued a statement stressing its enthusiasm for freedom of thought and expression in the face of pro-Palestinian protests.

The statement means the university is now caught in a "contradiction" he said, given that it recently adopted a policy compelling everyone on campus to accept transgender identities.

Other academics who are voicing similar sentiments are Edward Skidelsky and Liam Kennedy.

Dr Sidelsky is a lecturer in philosophy at the University of Exeter, and director of the Committee for Academic Freedom, while Prof Kennedy is a history professor at Queen's.

This most recent episode of the Queen's free speech saga began on May 9, when the university issued a statement after Palestine activists temporarily occupied its main building to protest against its ties to Israel.

In response, the university said: "Queen’s University Belfast is committed to freedom of expression, the right to hold a range of views, and the promotion and protection of the right to protest. This applies to our students, academics, and professional staff, and indeed the wider public."

In December The News Letter revealed details of its new QUB trans code, which states that if somebody uses a trans or "non-binary" person's “incorrect pronouns” on two or more occasions (even by accident) it will fall under "bullying and harassment".

[ Peter Boghossian ]

This applies “regardless of whether or not that person has transitioned legally or surgically”.

The code also bars what it calls "derogatory jokes", also on pain of disciplinary action.

The code applies to all staff, students, student applicants, job applicants, plus "all visitors and anyone providing services to, or those contracted to work at, the University including sub-contractors".

(This followed a battle with the Queen's press office, which initially refused to hand over the relevant documentation.)

Peter Boghossian (293,000 Twitter followers) was a philosophy professor in Portland, USA, before quitting, accusing it of "intolerance of divergent beliefs and opinions".

He was one of the architects of the "grievance studies" scandal which saw him and others submit made-up research papers on feminism and gender to academic journals, many of which were published despite being surreally absurd.

Contrasting Queen's trans policy with its support for "the right to hold a range of views", Prof Boghossian said: "It is a contradiction.

"People in general, and it seems that academics in particular, only support free speech when they approve of the content of that speech."

On the worldwide Palestinian campus protests more widely, he added: "For many academics and diversity-equity-and-inclusion bureaucrats ‘Kill the Jews’ and ‘We need a Final Solution’ is protected speech, but asking people ‘Where are you from?’ or saying ‘I don’t see color’ are microaggressions."

Prof Sidelsky likewise said there is "inconsistency" in Queen's approach.

"Like many institutions, QUB is all for freedom of expression for views it agrees with, not for views it disagrees with," he said.

"But if you really believe in freedom of expression, you believe in it across the board."

And professor Liam Kennedy said that whilst the university's trans policy does not seem to be "a problem", it is "rather pointless, if not actually silly of Queen’s University to insist on making this a requirement backed up by disciplinary threats".

He added: "There is a danger of mission creep here, and disciplinary threats if exercised vigorously could end up producing a chill factor in relation to academic freedom."

Queen's was invited to comment but didn't.

==

Just in case anyone thinks Peter is using a strawman:

[ Source: "Racial microaggressions in everyday life: Implications for clinical practice", Derald Wing Sue, et al. ]

Note that the QUB policy constitutes compelled speech. You're being forced to knowingly lie, or you'll be punished.

[acquired-stardust]

Game Spotlight #5: Warlocked (2000)

It's time for our fifth Gaming Spotlight this time brought to you by Larsa. This spotlight will feature the first Gameboy Color game we have covered. When you think of the Gameboy Color you think of great games like Pokemon Gold/Sliver, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, or even a more underrated hit like Harvest Moon 3. Those games were bright representations of their genres and the sort of titles the handheld had became known for at the time. Now with that said, did you know that the Gameboy Color had its very own Real-Time Strategy game published by Nintendo?

I introduce to you "Warlocked", a cult classic game that wears its inspirations on its sleeve. "Warlocked" was a game developed by a small studio based out of the United Kingdom known as Bit Studios in a partnership with Nintendo. The studio recently had formed a partnership at the time with Nintendo of America and developed " R-Type DX " for the Gameboy Color to positive critical acclaim before working on their next project "Warlocked". Right off the bat here the game's story is nothing particularly original being yet another "Humans vs Orcs" story which was everywhere in the previous decade of the 1990s. The human kingdom is ruled by the beautiful Queen Azarel whose kingdom reigns over the Kula ice fields. She and her kingdom are forced into battle by an invading force of foreigners: the beats led by Chief Zog. It is revealed through text that Zog wishes to take over these frozen plains and force Azarel to be his Queen. This is certainly not how you treat your neighbors!

( Unless you play as Chief Zog in which case that totally is how you treat them. )

The game is divided between two different campaigns: one for the Human faction and the other for the Beast faction as both sides battle for supremacy guided by your fingertips. The campaigns are made up of completely different levels with their own objectives which largely boil down to wiping the opposing force off the map. The Human faction levels make for a good place to start for new players as it serves as a better tutorial to the game as opposed to the Beast faction levels which are more difficult. Both armies play functionally the same with each army being primarily comprised of workers, knights and archer units that serve as the backbone of your forces. Each faction has their own sprites representing the units but they are identical from a gameplay perspective. Along with the core units to make up the army your worker grunts can build structures such as a guard tower to rain arrows on your enemies, barracks to allow you to build more knights/archers, and farms which allow you to create more units. As you explore the map you may run into a baby Dragon or a powerful Wizard which can be recruited to tip the scales in your favor.

Wizard units are the most unique units featured in the game as each Wizard has their own sprite, backstory, and powers to help achieve victory. Whenever you discover a wizard, lead them back to your temple to store them in your "Wizlist". The game encourages you to fully explore each map to find these often hidden Wizards to join your army. If this might sound familiar at all that is because this system was heavily inspired by Pokemon. Once added to the list you are able to summon that Wizard unit in any future campaign, or multiplayer battle, if you so desire. The game boasts a roster of 27 Wizard units largely with different abilities from one another making collecting each of them during the campaign worth it. These Wizards have plethora of abilities such as the Telewiz's ability to teleport enemy units to random tiles effectively removing them as an obstacle. Another fearsome unit is the Bombwiz can turn an enemy unit into a large bomb which will explode damaging other opposing nearby units or structures. Along with these oddballs each of the two faction leaders are featured as "Wizard" type units themselves. Once they take to the field Queen Azarel and Chief Zog share the same ability of speeding up the creation of all new units.

"Dabu!" "Swobu!" "Zug zug!"

The gameplay and setting of Warlocked are obviously inspired by the RTS heavy hitters for the PC platform such as Blizzard's Starcraft and Warcraft games that would go onto to truly change the gaming landscape forever. However Warlocked shouldn't be written off as a mere copycat for the feats the developers achieved on the Gameboy Color is nothing short of miraculous. The developers managed to make a fully functional RTS on the Gameboy Color with plenty of extra content such as blackjack and puzzle mini-games. Even more impressive is the multiplayer battle mode where two players could battle each other via link cable. The game would go onto win critical acclaim being praised for it's gameplay, soundtrack, and user friendly controls. IGN would name the title it's "Best Game Boy Strategy" title of the year 2000. Despite the positive critical reception of the time Warlocked would sell poorly and these poor sales figures would sadly spell the end of the partnership between Bit Studios and Nintendo of America.

A couple of years later Bit Studios attempted to make a sequel to Warlocked titled "Wizards", a game being developed for the Gameboy Advance, a much more technology advanced system that could better suit the potential of an RTS game. Unfortunately Bit Studios could not get any publisher interested in funding the game and as such the project was quietly cancelled and not long afterward Bit Studios themselves were sold off by their parent company. It is truly a shame that Warlocked could not find an audience in its own time because in my opinion it was a well made game that deserved to enjoy success. I had many fond memories of playing this game when I was a child, and I will happily say having played it recently I believe it still holds up as a fun handheld title. Its simplistic RTS gameplay, catchy tunes, and pixel art make for a good time. This game is worth a spin for fellow retro-gaming enthusiasts.

A gem hidden among the stones, Warlocked is undoubtedly stardust.

-- Larsa

[the-frozen-pheonix]

From Japan to Taiwan, the Demon Slayer Corps will fight on! (Closed RP with @ask-kiyanah )

"We're setting sail for a nation far away. They say a demon who can make other demons is there. One that isn't dependent on the power structure here... It's meant to be an assignment of secrecy so I can't send you messages... I will blend in and return to you in safety... I love you, Kiki... Kula..." A sailor in faded maroon was none too quiet in his goodbye to his wife and child that stood on the dock-clinging to him like a light source in the night. He made hollow promises he knew he would likely not keep. He was ready to die fighting to do all he could to make the world a safer place for his wife and daughter.

Maybe she wouldn't grow up with a dad, but at least thanks to his own efforts, maybe she could grow up in a word free of demon influence.

As he made way to board the small trading vessel destined for a nation beyond, he took a moment to enjoy the respite he'd have prior to the perilous journey. In a journal, he wrote his thoughts on all going on. 'The existence of Demons create a great many reasons for the efforts expended in this time period. Whether one is made to run in fear, fight in terror, bend the knee in service, or one of many other possibilities-there is little we see that is done without the touch or influence of demon-kind. Even in the day time, their time of utmost weakness, the control over the non-demon is palpable to one who knows the patterns. Rarely, would a person see something in Japan not influenced by the immortal evil that had been building and biding through the years.' A gentle shuffle marked the sign of passengers. He assumed that was who he would assist in ferrying to the distant land. While he had time, he decided to finish his forlorn thoughts.

'Only the creators of all could know precisely how many sources of demon-spawn there were in the world. Who was to say the foreign crusaders did not wage war against the darkness. were the icy lands far to the north plagued by vampires, or were the stories made to contain a certain demon that became too popular. Without direct knowledge and recording, one cannot know for certain origins of evil plaguing each time. What one can understand, is the undeniable influence that these deep-rooted evils have on a local, national, and international scale. Once the patterns are seen, it is hard to say anything other than evil caused certain events. See enough of it, and one can despair that nothing is unrelated to the darker things in the world...Even I no longer believe there is anything that exists untainted by t-'

"Move ships-I am not riding on a fishing boat. Come on-I'll grab your stuff." A voice with familiar language to the fishermen-but not from a voice, or figure he knew. So tall and tanned so strangely. The writing of the sailor so grim, and his mood so sullen-were interrupted-then doused in a torrent of water from what he could only assume were his belongings colliding with the water next to the low-rimmed boat.

"Oh, damn. My bad... Looks like you aren't going... Whatever, I hired my own crew anyway. Have fun staying home. Your loss." The voice chimed once more. The sailor's attention was turned from his now ruined journal, and to clearing his vision of hair and water in an attempt to see just what-or who-had happened.

All he could make out as the figure moved away was a blonde mane of hair, well-maintained blue themed clothing, and more ornate weaponry than an artisan would boast. The boat the blonde boarded dwarfed the humble vessel the stealthy mission was meant to be harbored by. The sailor wasn't quite sure what had just happened, or who that man had been-but that attitude... the shrugging off of any urgency or attempt to adhere to pre-made plans... Was it possible not to let the knowledge of such earthly hells burden one... or was he stupid?

When he looked to see what exactly had fallen, he was incredulous to see the fabrics for the sails and rigging ropes were what was missing-not his belongings that, and the boat he'd boarded was already touching off... Looks like he was staying home... "Probably stupid." The sailor murmured softly as he pondered more. - Blonde mane of untamed, but immaculately clean gold curls flowed elegantly on the salty sea-winds. Blue and dark clothes so well maintained fluttered ever so gently in the gusts, and the weaponry upon the man stood stiff-aside from the Nodachi, so formally strapped on a long string about his back. It was clear he was enjoying himself, despite the indifferent look upon his face, when spoken to by any upon the comfortable vessel.

No attempt on the male's part had been made to actually confirm the origin of each crewmen, be they his own hired crew, or Demon Slayer Corpsmen. Only when land was some distance out, did he take a moment to inspect the crew, and see if any of note were among the crew. He also seemed open to approach now-not prone to ignore any attempt at interaction as he had been earlier.

[blackhakumen]

Mini Fanfic #1090: Video Calling Mom (King of Fighters)

12:54 p.m. at Borgard's Residence's Living Room.......

The words "Incoming Call" appears on a blue laptop's screen. As a hand reach and press down the mouse pad to answer the call, a small square begins to pop up of a woman in long, brown hair waving 'hello' with a bright smile on her face.

????: Hiiiii honey!~

Shingo: (Happily Waves Back at the Woman on Screen) Hi mom!~ it's been so long since I've seen you. How have you been?

Ms. Yabuki: I've been doing well so far. Relaxing, getting out the house to shop and see friends, missing my three, darling angels to pieces almost everyday, rinse and repeat. Ooh! (Ducks Down to Get Something From the Left Side of the Foot of a Chair She's Sitting on) Speaking of shopping, I was at the mall yesterday and stumbling upon this cute thing~ (Shows Shingo a Plushie of Himself Wearing his Old School Uniform)

Shingo: ('Gasps') No way! I have plushies of myself selling around your area!?

Ms. Yabuki: (Happily Nodded) Yep-Yep!~ I got from Build-A-Fighter Workshop. They sell all the well known fighters from that KOF tournament you'd always go to. In fact, words has it that you just so happens to become a fan favorite. Even more so than Shizuka and Saisyuu-San's boy~

Shingo: (Almost at a Loss For Words) ................I never thought I will ever happy to have my own marketable plushies up until now.

Kula: (Walks into the Room) Hey, Shingo, whatcha doin-(Gasps Loudly at the Sight of althea Shingo Plushie on his Laptop Screen) Oh my goooosh!~ (Quickly Makes her Way to the Sofa and Sits Next to Shingo) Is that a mini plushie of you!?~

Rock: (Walks into the Room Along with K Behind Him to Take a Look at the Plushie on Screen) It looks cute.

K': (Gives Shingo a Bit of a Teasing Smirk) And less obnoxious than the original.

Shingo: (Gives K' a Deadpinned Look on his Face) Gee, thanks, K'.

Mary: (Walks in the Room and Smacks K' Upside the Back of his Head) Quit being rude. (Gives Shingo a Reassuring Smile) Ignore him, kiddo, you're a sweetheart to be around.

Shingo: (Smiles Brightly) Thanks, Ms.Mary!

Kula: Yeah, Shingo, you're way more sweet and fun than Mr. Lazybone behind you!

K': Better being lazy than being a energetic brat like you.

Kula: blows a Raspberry at K' while white haired boy points two middle fingers at her up and down.

Rock: ('Sigh') Knock it off already, two......

Mary: Seriously........

Ms. Yabuki: (Giggles Softly) Oho my!~ Are these are the lovely friends you told so much about, Shingo honey?

Shingo: (Smiles Sheepishly) More or less, yeah.....(Turns to the Gang Besides and Behind Him) Hey, guys!

Everyone stops bantering to one another as they give Shingo his attention.

Shingo: (Presenting Everyone to his Mother) I'd like to finally introduce you to the beautiful saint of a woman who gave me and my sister life, my mom!

Ms. Yabuki: (Giggles Softly While Blushing and Playfully Waving Off) Oh dear~

Shingo: And mom, allow me to introduce you to my lovely friends! Kula Diamond.

Kula: [Happily Waves at Mrs. Yabuki on Screen) Hiiiii!~

Shingo: Rock Howard Bogard.

Rock: (Smiles Softly at the Screen) Pleased to meet you.

Shingo: K' Dash.

K': 'Sup.

Shingo: And another beautiful saint who's willing to put up with our shenanigans for longest time now: Blue Mary!

Mary: (Starts Blushing a Bit While Smiling a Little and Moving the Front of her Hair Back) Honestly, Shingo, I'm not THAT much of a saint.....Still, it's nice to finally meet you, Mrs. Yabuki. (Happily Bows to Shingo's Mother)

Ms. Yabuki: (Smiles Brightly) Likewise!~ (Clasps her Hands Together) I cannot thank you all enough for looking after my precious, baby boy in Southtown.

Shingo: (Starts Blushing in Embarrassment) Mooooom.....We talked about this. I'm not a little kid anymore......

Ms. Yabuki: I know we did, sweetie. (Uses the Edge of her Knuckles to Wipe a Few Tears Away From her Eyes) But it's so hard for mothers, such as myself, to accept that fact completely.

Mary: (Let's Out an Exhausted Sigh) Girl, I know the feeling! (Walks Over to Rock and Hugs Him) Our babies are growing up too fast....

Rock:: (Puts on a Deadpinned Look on his Face Before Sighing Again) You too, Mary?

Mary: (Pouts at her Rocky) Yes, me too! I helped your dad raised you since you were a little tyke and now here you are getting older as the years goes by and it's too freaking fast! I hate it!

Rock: Well, that's how life and reality works! Neither of us can change how fast time flies no how much either of us want to. (Smiles Softly) But even that won't change the fact that you're one of the most important people in my life.

Mary: (Heart Begins to Melt in Pure Happiness) Rocky......You're important to me too~ Always~ (Gives Rock a Kiss on the Cheek)

Shingo/Kula: AWWWWWW~

Ms. Yabuki: So precious~

K: Too cutesy for my liking.

Mary: Awww K'~ Are you feeling left out in the Hugfest already?~

K': (Scoffs While Crossing his Arms) Yeah, like I'd ever wanted to be involved in some hug-!? (Immediately Gets Pulled into Mary and Rock's Hug Before Sighing) fest.

Rock: (Smirks Playfully) Admit it. You're loving this right now.

K': (Rolls his Eyes) Well, it's not inherently the worse thing in the world-

Kula: GROUP HUGS!~ (Happily Joins in on the Hugfest Along with Shingo)

K': .......But you people are pushing it.

Kula: Oh don't be such a sour puss. Group Hugs are the best.

K': Yeah, for losers maybe.

Shingo: (Smirks Teasingly) Well, I don't see you trying to break free~

Kula: (Starts Giggling Softly) Which makes you a loser too!~

K': ('Tch') Please. I'm way more cooler than all of you in this room combined.

Rock: Even Terry?

K': ESPECIALLY Terry.

Mary: Yeah, right!

Kula: Get real!

Shingo: He's the Legendary Wolf for a reason, you know!?

Mrs. Yabuki giggles softly at the group's back and forth banter until a doorbell is heard in the house.

Mary: Huh. Looks like we got company.

K': Someone get the door.

Everyone: Not it!

K': (Puts on a Sly Smirk) Not it.

Rock: You did that on purpose, didn't you?

K': Yep. Now, get off, losers.

Everyone else groans and reluctantly breaks up the group hug as K' makes his way to the door.

K': (Opens the Door) Welcome to the Losers residence, with the expectation of yours truly.

Rock: (From the Room) Delusion will get you nowhere!

Leona: (Standing in Front of the Doorway as She Casually Crosses her Arms) K' Dash. Good to see you're still as blunt as always.

K': (Shrugs) Yeah, well, being around these dorks almost everyday will do that to ya. What brings you here?

Leona: I was given a free time to myself from the colonel, for the rest of the day and decided to spend the rest of it with you guys, if you're not too busy that is.

K': Nah. (Points at the Room Behind Him) We're not doing much either, except meeting Shingo's mom for the first time.

Leona: Wait......(Lowers Her Arms as Her Eyes Slowly Begins to Widened in Fear at the Realization) Shingo-Kun's mother is here!?

K': (Rubbing the Back of his Head Back and Forth) I mean, I wouldn't say she's here's physically if that's what you're worried about. We're only talking to her on video chat. (Turns Back to Leona as He Raises an Eyebrow) What are you doing?

Leona: (Straightens Up her Hair and Tidying the Clothes She's Wearing in a Bit of a Panicked State) H-How do I look? Decent? Above average? (Turbs Back to K') Remotely presentable!?

K': Relax, Heidern Jr., you look fine enough as it is.

Leona: Are you sure? I-I can run back and change of-

K': ('Sigh') Would you quit your worrying already? Of course, I'm sure. Have I ever been dishonest to you? On second thought, don't answer that.

Shingo: (Makes his Way to the Doorway) Hey, K', mom's about to tell us a story about- (Gasps Before Smiling at a Familiar Face in Front of Him) Leona-san!~

Leona: (Shyly Waves Hello to her Boyfriend With a Small Smile) H-Hi darling. I hope you've been doing well.

Shingo: (Smiles Brightly) I'm doing great today. What about you?

Leona: I-

K': Your homegirl here is getting cold feet over meeting your mom.

Leona: (Glares at Comrade) K'!

K': Hey, don't try and hide it now. It's way too obvious to ignore.

Leona: Well, y-yeah! But- (Catches K' Raising an Eyebrow at Her Again and Shingo's Now Worried Look on hie Face Before Sighing in Defeat) Nevermind. You speak the truth....

K': ('Hmph') Damn right I do. I'm the only non loser here after all.

Shingo: (Gives K' a Deadpinned Look on his Face) You're still going on about that?

K': (Starts Walking Back to the Room) Yeeeuuuup. And I ain't gonna stop either.

Shingo: Of course you won't. (Turns Bacl to his Girlfriend) Are you okay?

Leona: (Nodded To Shingo) I am. It's....just my nerves getting the better of me is all.

Shingo: Hey, trust me, I get it. I'm still nervous just thinking about meeting your dad one of these days in the future.

Leona: (Gives her Boyfriend the Cutest Pout Imaginable) Shingooooo!

Shingo: (Quickly Smiles Sheepishly) Sorry, sorry! I know you already told over and over again to not worry, but it's kinda hard not to when you got reminded to meet him in a month or two.

Leona: ('Sigh') I, again, apologize for that. (Scowls at the Thought of What Happened That Evening) It seems one of my superiors doesn't know the concept of keeping it to himself.....

Shingo: (Chuckles Lightly) Yeah, but it was bound to happen sooner or later, so it's no harm done. mostly. (Gently Grab Hold of Leona's Hands) Hey there's no need to worry. My mom is one of the most sweetest person in the wholewide world, there's no way she would think badly of you.

Leona: Even if my confidence will begin to crack?

Shingo: ESPECIALLY when your confidence starts cracking. You are dating her nervous wreck of a son after all~ (Playfully Winks at Leona)

Leona: (Giggles Softly) I am~ And I love him very much.

Shingo: I love you too~ (Gives Leona a Kiss on the Forehead)

?????: Shingo honey?

The couple turns around to see the gang coming towards the doorway, with Kula holding Shingo's laptop, having it and Mrs. Yabuki face towards her own son.

Ms. Yabuki: Is everything alright over her- (Suddenly Notices a Blue Haired Girl Standing Next to Shingo) Oh. Hello, dear. Who might you be?

Shingo: Mom, I'd like to introduce you to Leona Heidern, my girlfriend.

Leona: (Properly Bows to Shingo's Mother) Pleased to meet you, ma'am.

Ms. Yabuki: (Eyes Begins to Widened in Genuine Surprise as She Coves her Mouth) You are his girlfriend? (Eyes Begins to Tear Up) My baby boi?

Shingo: (Eyes Widened in Fear) Oh no.

Leona: Y-Yes. We've been together for quite a while now.

Kula: (Smiles Brightly) Four months to be exact!~

Mrs. Yabuki: Four months!? You moved here, made new friends, and got yourself a job at a coffee shop, and NOW here you are getting yourself a girlfriend for FOUR MONTHS!? Why are you growing up so fahahaahaaaaast!~ (Burst Out Crying)

Shingo: ('Sigh') And there it is......My mom, ladies and gentlemen.

Leona: (Giggles Softly) She seems to love her baby boi very much~

Shingo: (Rolls his Eyes) That she does. To an overbearing sense.....

Rock: (Starts Nodding to Shingo) I feel your pain, brother.

Mary: (Pouts at Rock Beside Him) Oh come on. I'm not THAT overbearing-

Rock: I learned how to rode a motorcycle for the first time with Terry teaching me yesterday.

Mary: (Slowly Turns to Rock With a Surprised Look on her Face as Her Eyes Begins to Tear Up as Well) R-Really?

Rock: Yep. Even got my license and everything. (Shows Mary his Official Motorcycle License)

Mary: MY BABY BOYYYYY!~ (Immediately Pulls Rock Into Another Hug as She Bursts Out Crying)

Rock: See? Same pain.

K': (Smirking the Whole Time) Admit it. You two love being Mommas' Boys.

Rock/Shingo: Shut up.

Ms. Yabuki: Leona, dear?

Leona: Yes, ma'am?

Ms. Yabuki: ('Sniff') I know this is too much to ask, but.....('Sniff') Would you mind hugging my only son for me please? ('Sniff') The very thought of him being far away from me aches my heart ever so~

Shingo: ('Sigh') Mom, it's not that big of a deal. We'll see each other again. Eventually...... And hopefully.

Ms. Yabuki: (Eyes Starts Watering Up Again) I hope so......

Leona: (Giggles Once More) I got you covered, Mrs. Yabuki. (Gives Shingo a Loving Hug) I've been wanting to hug him all day today, in fact~

Kula: (Givesthe Laptop to K' Before Joining in on the Shingo Hugfest) Me too!~ We love you, Shingo~

Shingo: (Let's Out Another Sigh Before Smiling Again) Love you guys too.

@thelexhex

@tamrinthian

@cyber-wildcat

@albion-93

@caleb13frede

[sentofight]

Meta + wintertime activities. (For Kula.)

ooc. tbh it is winter for her all the time haha. Hmm specifically when it is winter, she would want everyone to go skiing, skating all sorts of snow sports with her, especially seirah (whip). K and Maxima can come i guess but she wants her big sister to be with her!!! Eating more ice cream, too! tbh her activities are not that 'strange' nor 'out of the world' because in the essence she is a kid--she got a mind of a kid after all. Whatever is fun and she can do it with seirah she wants to do it. despite hating fire she will enjoy roasting marshmallows with her if that was a thing. gather around and tell scary stories?? heck sure why not??? she does not get scared that easily because ghosts are dumb she can kick their butt! building snowmen together???????????????yes.

send  [ META ] + A WORD / PHRASE / PERSON / ETC  and i will write a head  canon around it. | accepting

[europeposts]

Mostar

City in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar is a city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, straddling the Neretva River. It’s known for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a reconstructed medieval arched bridge. The nearby alleys are full of shops and market stalls, and the Old Bridge Museum explores the bridge’s long history. A narrow staircase leads up to the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque’s minaret for panoramic city views

Area code: +387 (0) 36

Canton: Herzegovina-Neretva

Elevation: 60 m (200 ft)

Founded: 1452

Mostar is a city and the administrative center of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, an entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina,[6] and the historical capital of Herzegovina.

Mostar is situated on the Neretva River and is the fifth-largest city in the country.[8] Mostar was named after the bridge keepers (mostari) who guarded the Stari Most (Old Bridge) over the Neretva during the Ottoman era. The Old Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,[10] commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most visited landmarks, and is considered an exemplary piece of Islamic architecture in the Balkans

Old Bridge in the heart of the Old City of Mostar (viewed from the north)

Human settlements on the river Neretva, between Mount Hum and the Velež Mountain, have existed since prehistory, as witnessed by discoveries of fortified enceintes and cemeteries. Evidence of Roman occupation was discovered beneath the present town....

Neretva also known as Narenta, is one of the largest rivers of the eastern part of the Adriatic basin. Four hydroelectric power plants with large dams (higher than 150,5 metres) provide flood protection, power and water storage. It is recognized for its natural environment and diverse landscapes

Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque, Catholic church and Franciscan monastery of St. Peter and Paul, Gimnazija Mostar, designed by architect František Blažek, Old Town of Mostar

Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, The Old Town Street

Stari Most also known as Mostar Bridge, is a rebuilt 16th-century Ottoman bridge in the city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It crosses the river Neretva and connects the two parts of the city, which is named after the bridge keepers (mostari) who guarded the Stari Most during the Ottoman era.

The Museum of the Old Bridge is a museum located in the Old Town Area of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The museum opened in 2006 to celebrate the second anniversary of the reconstruction of the Stari Most (transl. Old Bridge). The museum's premises are within the Tara Tower and they consist of three distinct sections

Panoramic view of Mostar

Gymnasium Mostar (built 1898–1902) within United World College, Mostar International Airport, Aluminij factory

Austrian and Yugoslav period, Bosnian War, Post-war developments

People of Mostar in 1890–1900, People gathered waiting for Stjepan Radić to arrive in Mostar in 1925, 8th Yugoslav Partisans' Corps in liberated Mostar, February 1945, War damage on the former Mostar frontline, 2001

The Old Bridge undergoing reconstruction in June 2003.

Some noteworthy sites include Bishop's Ordinariate building, the remains of an early Christian basilica at Cim, a hamam (Ottoman public bath), clock tower (sahat-kula), Synagogue (1889) and Jewish Memorial Cemetery, Nesuh-aga Vučjaković Mosque, Hadži-Kurt Mosque or Tabačica, Metropolitan's Palace (1908), Karagöz Bey Mosque (1557), Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (1873), Catholic Church and Franciscan Monastery, Ottoman Residences (16th–19th century), Crooked Bridge, Tara and Halebija Towers....

Mostar - Wikipedia

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina 🇧🇦

📷: Peter Rajkai

[thxnews]

Biden, Zelenskyy Sign 10-Year Bilateral Security Agreement

In a historic move, President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement. This pact is designed to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities and deter future aggression, reflecting a long-term commitment to regional stability and international peace.  

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Joe Biden shake hands after signing the U.S.-Ukraine Bilateral Security Agreement during the G7 Summit in Fasano, Italy. Photo by DOD.  

Details of the Agreement

The agreement, signed at a high-profile event, focuses on several critical areas to bolster Ukraine's defense and deterrence capabilities over the next decade. This includes: - Building and maintaining Ukraine's credible defense and deterrence capabilities. - Strengthening Ukraine’s capacity to sustain its fight over the long term. - Accelerating Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic integration. - Consulting in the event of future Russian armed attacks against Ukraine.   "Our goal is to strengthen Ukraine's credible defense and deterrence capability for the long term," said President Biden. "A lasting peace for Ukraine must be underwritten by Ukraine's own ability to defend itself now and to deter future aggression anytime in the future."   President Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, "This pact solidifies our partnership with the United States and ensures that Ukraine can defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity."  

An airman with the 305th Aerial Port Squadron uploads munitions onboard a C-17 Globemaster III at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. Photo by Air Force Alexis Kula. DOD.  

Financial Support and Sanctions

In addition to the bilateral security agreement, the G7 has unlocked $50 billion in frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. This move aims to remind Russia that the international community stands firm against its aggression. Financial Measures: - Unlocking of $50 billion in frozen Russian assets. - Sanctions on countries aiding Russia's war efforts. Key Elements of the Agreement: - Long-term defense support. - Euro-Atlantic integration. During the signing ceremony, President Biden highlighted that the G7 recently achieved a "significant outcome" by freeing up some of the $280 billion in Russian assets frozen by G7 and European Union members following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.   "I'm very pleased to share that, this week, the G7 signed a plan to finalize and unlock $50 billion in the proceeds of those frozen assets, to put that money to work for Ukraine a reminder to Putin we're not backing down," Biden said.   " has been something that the United States has put a lot of energy and effort into, because we see the proceeds from these assets as being a valuable source of resources for Ukraine at a moment when Russia continues to brutalize the country — not just through military action on the front, but through the attempted destruction of its energy grid and its economic vitality," National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters.  

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Joe Biden sign the U.S.-Ukraine Bilateral Security Agreement. Photo by DOD.   Broader Implications The signing of this 10-year bilateral security agreement between the US and Ukraine marks a critical moment in ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region. As the international community continues to support Ukraine, this agreement underscores the importance of solidarity in the face of aggression. In addition to the bilateral security agreement and the distribution of proceeds from unlocked Russian assets to Ukraine, Biden also mentioned that the G7 has taken a third "major step" in support of Ukraine by agreeing on sanctions against countries contributing to Russia's war efforts.   "Collectively, this is a powerful set of actions," Biden said. "And it will create a stronger foundation for Ukraine's success."  

What it Means

The 10-year bilateral security agreement between the US and Ukraine represents a significant step toward ensuring Ukraine's defense and deterring future aggression. This comprehensive pact, supported by substantial financial measures and international sanctions, highlights the unwavering commitment of the US and its allies to support Ukraine in maintaining its sovereignty and territorial integrity. As the global community watches, this agreement sets a precedent for international cooperation and resilience against aggression.   Sources: THX News & US Department of Defense. Read the full article

[sophiasblog10]

Athletic Director Mark Kulakowski: A Familiar Face to All and Facilities All Brought Together

When I was a senior in high school, I had no idea what direction I wanted to go in, as most people could say. What I did know was that I had a passion for sports as that is one of the things that I mainly talked about. I knew I wanted to go into the sports field, however I did not know exactly what I wanted to do. Making my way through freshman year, I started as an exercise science major and then traveled along into switching my majors now entering the sports management world. Taking on a summer internship with the North Shore Navigators was interesting and knowledgeable, but I knew I needed more meat with the work I was doing, I needed more hands-on experience in order to get a feel for what my future is planning to look like. Although he may not be a professor here at Endicott College, there was one familiar face that inspired me from the first day I met him while doing bat testing for the baseball team. Little did I know he would have a great impact on my life guiding me in the right direction towards my future.

Mark Kulakowski otherwise known as “Kula,” is the Associate Athletic Director here on the beautiful campus of Endicott College or otherwise known as “the nest.” Kula has been in his position of being an Associate Athletic Director for 22 years in which he oversees all of the gameday operation facilities, ROTC liaison and day to day operations on the campus of Endicott College. He has been a familiar face to all around him and there is not a day that goes by that he does not say hi or gives a smile to someone, whether it is a student, faculty or staff member. He has brought such a friendly and bright attitude and atmosphere to Endicott College and has definitely played a huge role in making what the athletic department is today. Constantly changing, repairing and improving the facilities, Kula always has the best interest in not only what he thinks would make the school better as a whole, but looks out for the students and has thoughts in the back of his head of what would make them happy. “I love Endicott, and I love the people, and I am a people person.” - Mark Kulakowski.

“I started the football program here as an assistant coach as well as I have coached softball at the same time and I did this for 10 years, then stayed another 6 years coaching softball. I worked my way up from a coordinator to an Associate Athletic Director and kept on climbing,” stated Kula when asked about how he got to where he is today. He then continued on and said, “I’ve seen and done a bunch of different things, so it’s just been a great experience. It's pretty impressive because a lot of people don’t get to stay, and really say, they love what they do, so I find myself extremely blessed.” 

Kula completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in which he obtained a major in history and a minor in education. Soon after graduating from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth he went on to complete his graduate degree in leadership here at Endicott College. Kula knew he was made out to be working in the sports industry as he continues to do what he loves on a daily basis. 

Kula brings an exceptional amount of determination and pride in his work. He is a perfectionist and wants everything to be done with the most amount of perfection and detail as they can rather than half fasting it. Even though Kula does not have a day to day routine, he makes sure everyday by the end of his work day that everything gets done in a fashionably and timely manner and that he provides the equipment and resources needed so others can succeed in their jobs. The facilities here at Endicott College would not be what they are today without Kula putting every blood, sweat and tear into his job.

The Post Center is located near most of the athletic fields here at Endicott College. This building hosts the Sports Science, Fitness, and Athletic Training Center. Opened in September 1999 a lot has changed since then. From going to classrooms, training rooms, labs, offices, dance, weight, and group exercise rooms, in 2010 there were renovations done in which Endicott completed a 2,400 square foot addition to the existing structure. This is the place to be whether it is learning in a classroom, completing work study, or even just hanging out, using the facilities this building has to offer, and going to get a good workout in the gym, the Post Center has all of the needs necessary to enjoy campus a little bit more. 

One of the gyms that Endicott has is its strength and conditioning room which is strictly for athletes only. This room is designed so athletes during on and off season can workout in which they strengthen and condition their bodies no matter what season they are in. Endicott’s very own strength and conditioning coach and run by none other than Jack Dustin. Jack brings a friendly, goofy personality that everyone loves and everyone looks up to him as a role model. Jack oversees all of the athletes as well as coaches them by making sure they are performing the best exercise needed for their body and sport, as well as making sure nobody gets hurt. Dustin is committed to the success of his athletes and the physical and mental goals that they set for themselves. 

Part of the Strength and Conditioning program here at Endicott College is the Athletes. Strength and Conditioning is not all about seriousness but athletes tend to have a little fun here and there. During halloween time the athletes may dress up in whatever they desire as long as they get a good lift. Athletes are not only challenging themselves, but challenging their peers as well because at the end of the day they are on the same team and want everyone to be the best that they can be. 

Endicotts hockey program is truly something that nobody ever forgets. Athletes definitely put on a show at the Raymond J. Bourque Arena and the reason the athletes are able to skate is because of the staff members that make sure everything runs smoothly. Mark Kulakowski has interns that meet team buses, show the opposing team locker rooms, check in the refs, perform ticket sales and crowd control. The interns are overseed by Mark in which he prepares them for the challenging day ahead of time. With weekly meetings between all of his staff members and interns that Mark goes to, he never lets anyone struggle as he states that “he is always here for whoever and whenever anybody needs him.” Kula makes sure that the rink is cleaned and ice is constantly being made for the hockey players to play on especially for the CCC championship matches that were hosted at Endicott. Kula states “my job is not easy but it certainly is rewarding at the end of the day seeing all the smiling faces satisfied with the entertainment they have been brought.” 

Endicotts Baseball Program is truly one of a kind. Run by Coach Haley he takes pride in his team, making sure that their academics are just as up to par as the teams athletics. Haley does not let any baseball player participate in baseball if they have a GPA under a 2.9. With these high standards, the athletes perform to their fullest potential on and off the field. Endicott’s baseball program has a grand total of 8 times CCC championships. Their outstanding record season after season is something that other teams watch out for. Haley loves the team and loves the boys as he takes pride in what he does and is determined to make the team the best that he can year in and year out. 

Another Program that Mark helps set up with is Lacrosse. Lacrosse games are a lot to set up as Mark has to make sure the time keepers know what they are doing, the refs understand the rules and the players are good sports throughout the whole time. He also oversees the crowd and crowd control them just in case things tend to get a little Rowdy. He makes sure that all of the interns and student workers throughout the game know what they are doing with full confidence. Mark never lets anyone do anything without showing them and having them feel like they are not confident in what they are doing. 

The Macdonald Gymnasium is partially where the indoor sports compete. Between men and womens volleyball and mens and womens basketball, there is a lot of competition that brings a rowdy crowd to this gymnasium. Mark makes sure the gym is set up with the correct equipment needed, the right amount of student workers, and makes sure everything is ready to go. He puts out barricades to separate the athletes and the crowd in order to make sure that everything is run in a smooth manner and nobody loses control. 

Taking a look is where all the athletics sprout from. Even though there are a ton of athletes that are located within this building, there are also regular students that use the facilities. Between a smoothie shop, the gym, classes and building there is something for everyone. Mark's office is located in the gym on the first floor and students are not afraid to stop by and say hello just because of how friendly Mark is and how excited he is to see the students.

[sophiasblog26]

Athletic Director Mark Kulakowski: A Familiar Face to All and Facilities All Brought Together 

When I was a senior in high school, I had no idea what direction I wanted to go in, as most people could say. What I did know was that I had a passion for sports as that is one of the things that I mainly talked about. I knew I wanted to go into the sports field, however I did not know exactly what I wanted to do. Making my way through freshman year, I started as an exercise science major and then traveled along into switching my majors now entering the sports management world. Taking on a summer internship with the North Shore Navigators was interesting and knowledgeable, but I knew I needed more meat with the work I was doing, I needed more hands-on experience in order to get a feel for what my future is planning to look like. Although he may not be a professor here at Endicott College, there was one familiar face that inspired me from the first day I met him while doing bat testing for the baseball team. Little did I know he would have a great impact on my life guiding me in the right direction towards my future.

Mark Kulakowski otherwise known as “Kula,” is the Associate Athletic Director here on the beautiful campus of Endicott College or otherwise known as “the nest.” Kula has been in his position of being an Associate Athletic Director for 22 years in which he oversees all of the gameday operation facilities, ROTC liaison and day to day operations on the campus of Endicott College. He has been a familiar face to all around him and there is not a day that goes by that he does not say hi or gives a smile to someone, whether it is a student, faculty or staff member. He has brought such a friendly and bright attitude and atmosphere to Endicott College and has definitely played a huge role in making what the athletic department is today. Constantly changing, repairing and improving the facilities, Kula always has the best interest in not only what he thinks would make the school better as a whole, but looks out for the students and has thoughts in the back of his head of what would make them happy. “I love Endicott, and I love the people, and I am a people person.” - Mark Kulakowski.

“I started the football program here as an assistant coach as well as I have coached softball at the same time and I did this for 10 years, then stayed another 6 years coaching softball. I worked my way up from a coordinator to an Associate Athletic Director and kept on climbing,” stated Kula when asked about how he got to where he is today. He then continued on and said, “I’ve seen and done a bunch of different things, so it’s just been a great experience. It's pretty impressive because a lot of people don’t get to stay, and really say, they love what they do, so I find myself extremely blessed.” 

Kula completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in which he obtained a major in history and a minor in education. Soon after graduating from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth he went on to complete his graduate degree in leadership here at Endicott College. Kula knew he was made out to be working in the sports industry as he continues to do what he loves on a daily basis. 

Kula brings an exceptional amount of determination and pride in his work. He is a perfectionist and wants everything to be done with the most amount of perfection and detail as they can rather than half fasting it. Even though Kula does not have a day to day routine, he makes sure everyday by the end of his work day that everything gets done in a fashionably and timely manner and that he provides the equipment and resources needed so others can succeed in their jobs. The facilities here at Endicott College would not be what they are today without Kula putting every blood, sweat and tear into his job.

The Post Center is located near most of the athletic fields here at Endicott College. This building hosts the Sports Science, Fitness, and Athletic Training Center. Opened in September 1999 a lot has changed since then. From going to classrooms, training rooms, labs, offices, dance, weight, and group exercise rooms, in 2010 there were renovations done in which Endicott completed a 2,400 square foot addition to the existing structure. This is the place to be whether it is learning in a classroom, completing work study, or even just hanging out, using the facilities this building has to offer, and going to get a good workout in the gym, the Post Center has all of the needs necessary to enjoy campus a little bit more. 

One of the gyms that Endicott has is its strength and conditioning room which is strictly for athletes only. This room is designed so athletes during on and off season can workout in which they strengthen and condition their bodies no matter what season they are in. Endicott’s very own strength and conditioning coach and run by none other than Jack Dustin. Jack brings a friendly, goofy personality that everyone loves and everyone looks up to him as a role model. Jack oversees all of the athletes as well as coaches them by making sure they are performing the best exercise needed for their body and sport, as well as making sure nobody gets hurt. Dustin is committed to the success of his athletes and the physical and mental goals that they set for themselves. 

Part of the Strength and Conditioning program here at Endicott College is the Athletes. Strength and Conditioning is not all about seriousness but athletes tend to have a little fun here and there. During halloween time the athletes may dress up in whatever they desire as long as they get a good lift. Athletes are not only challenging themselves, but challenging their peers as well because at the end of the day they are on the same team and want everyone to be the best that they can be. 

Endicotts hockey program is truly something that nobody ever forgets. Athletes definitely put on a show at the Raymond J. Bourque Arena and the reason the athletes are able to skate is because of the staff members that make sure everything runs smoothly. Mark Kulakowski has interns that meet team buses, show the opposing team locker rooms, check in the refs, perform ticket sales and crowd control. The interns are overseed by Mark in which he prepares them for the challenging day ahead of time. With weekly meetings between all of his staff members and interns that Mark goes to, he never lets anyone struggle as he states that “he is always here for whoever and whenever anybody needs him.” Kula makes sure that the rink is cleaned and ice is constantly being made for the hockey players to play on especially for the CCC championship matches that were hosted at Endicott. Kula states “my job is not easy but it certainly is rewarding at the end of the day seeing all the smiling faces satisfied with the entertainment they have been brought.” 

Endicotts Baseball Program is truly one of a kind. Run by Coach Haley he takes pride in his team, making sure that their academics are just as up to par as the teams athletics. Haley does not let any baseball player participate in baseball if they have a GPA under a 2.9. With these high standards, the athletes perform to their fullest potential on and off the field. Endicott’s baseball program has a grand total of 8 times CCC championships. Their outstanding record season after season is something that other teams watch out for. Haley loves the team and loves the boys as he takes pride in what he does and is determined to make the team the best that he can year in and year out. 

Another Program that Mark helps set up with is Lacrosse. Lacrosse games are a lot to set up as Mark has to make sure the time keepers know what they are doing, the refs understand the rules and the players are good sports throughout the whole time. He also oversees the crowd and crowd control them just in case things tend to get a little Rowdy. He makes sure that all of the interns and student workers throughout the game know what they are doing with full confidence. Mark never lets anyone do anything without showing them and having them feel like they are not confident in what they are doing. 

The Macdonald Gymnasium is partially where the indoor sports compete. Between men and womens volleyball and mens and womens basketball, there is a lot of competition that brings a rowdy crowd to this gymnasium. Mark makes sure the gym is set up with the correct equipment needed, the right amount of student workers, and makes sure everything is ready to go. He puts out barricades to separate the athletes and the crowd in order to make sure that everything is run in a smooth manner and nobody loses control.

Taking a look is where all the athletics sprout from. Even though there are a ton of athletes that are located within this building, there are also regular students that use the facilities. Between a smoothie shop, the gym, classes and building there is something for everyone. Mark's office is located in the gym on the first floor and students are not afraid to stop by and say hello just because of how friendly Mark is and how excited he is to see the students.