#enough time nor substance to incorporate it

[daydreamtravellog]

WIZLORDS! - Third Country Press

Welcome back! It's been awhile, huh?

WIZLORDS! is a... peculiar GM-less game made by Third Country Press, which can be found here.

This game is not solo, nor does it have much in the way of character creation, so let's just jump right into it.

In this game, three or more players take on the role of wizards. Wizards powerful enough to casually warp reality on a whim. These wizards are members of the grand council, ruling over the realm.

Unfortunately, all of you are, without exception, insane. Now would be a good time to discuss character creation.

To play this game you will need:

3+ Players

1d20 - overall, not per player.

(Optionally) Character Sheet

(Optionally) Something to keep score with

There aren't an official character sheet and scorekeeping system, but this game is very complicated mechanically.

To make your character:

Come up with an ostentatious name. You are an eccentric wizard noble, after all.

As previously mentioned, you are insane. This manifests as you obsessions. You have a relatively harmless, somewhat risky, and incredibly dangerous obsessions. These are worth 1, 2, and 3 points, respectively. Keep these to yourself.

Congratulations, you are now a wizards!

From here, you and your eccentric fellow council members will get down to business. Over the course of seven days, you will deal with problems plaguing your realm, determined by rolling the d20.

Each Wizlord will then come up with their proposal for solving the problem, engage in debate (limited to 5 minutes for the sake of fairness and time), and put it to a vote. The winner is the one with the majority vote, and they get 3 points. Rinse and repeat 6 more times, and whoever is has the most points is named the HIGH WIZLORD, and is to be showered with praise by the other players.

This gets especially interesting when each player's secret obsessions are thrown into the mix. Even if you aren't the one who made the original proposal, you can make an amendment, supporting the proposal while attempting to incorporate your obsession. If you manage to slip in your obsession, you get points based on the grade of obsession, as I mentioned above.

It's a pretty simple game, the whole document is only two pages long, and the second page is entirely devoted to the list of issues that you roll the d20 for. My impression of this game is that it sounds like a lot of fun if you like roleplay and improv, especially with how silly and weird the game is meant to be. This is definitely a game that you could play on a whim, requiring basically no setup and very little time spent on character creation. I'd definitely love to give it a try sometime!

This game doesn't really fit the format of this blog very well, but I still really wanted to talk about it! I feel like this one doesn't have a lot of substance though, despite the length of time since my last post, so I will be working on the next post shortly.

Until next time, I bid you adieu, and we will meet again when there is a new tale to be told...

[weidaoduzun3]

Iamblichus’s De Anima & Philosophical Hermetic Influence?

Chapter 1. "Nature of The Soul”

I will be taking sentences and sections from chapter 1 and compare/expand on them to that of the Stobean, Corpus Hermetica, & the Definitions to Asclepius from Hermēs. (David Litwa’s ‘Hermetica 2’ & Brian Copenhaver’s ‘Hermetica.’ Jean-Pierre Mahé Definitions to Asclepius… [SH-CH-DH]).

Chapter 1–paragraph 1:

"I see in these categories much that is ambiguous and confused (for motions in the category of change are not be considered as identical with motions in the category of life, nor kinds of knowledge that involve imagination with those that transcend it, nor the sort of purity of essence proper to air with that of things essentially incorporeal), and much that is incomplete and inadequate (for it not possible to take in all the varieties of opinion under these three categories.)

Here we see Iamblichus refuting Aristotles ‘Physics’— namely, his idea of the tripartite soul:

Motion

Knowledge

Subtly of Essence (Incorporeal Substance)

To divide the soul into strictly three parts is too simple—given the nature of the soul, according to Iamblichus.

(Should be noted Iamblichus is known for over-generalizing his predecessors for the sake of argument, and he admits this a few times in his writings.)

I’m inclined to agree with Iamblichus, given The numerous references in philosophical Hermetica I have found to support this. Interestingly enough, SH 3 gives a Platonic tripartite function.

SH 3:4 tells that the "soul is ever moving and is always moves itself and energizes the motion in other beings." In verse 5 it gives three kinds of souls:

Divine

Human

Non-Rational

Though the last verse. SH 3:9, encourages us to look at the “4th type of soul” this is the Soul that is “to be the moving agent of inanimate beings. To me this seems like it could fall under Aristotles “Subtly of Essence” category, but until I investigate Aristotle myself, and inclined to agree with Iamblichus in the mean time.

Looking at CH XII [21]… “Soul” is indeed one of God’s limbs: "like wise the <limbs of God> are life, immortality, {fate}, necessity, Providence, Nature, SOUL & mind…"

So to me, again, I agree with Iamblichus on the ambiguity of the tripartite of the soul. (Until, I of course, study Aristotles and Plato’s tripartite soul more in depth, I see nothing wrong with agreeing with Iamblichus, until I find more time to study the nuances of all this.)

Paragraph 2

"Some trace back the essence of the soul to the first principles of the four elements. For the primal atomic bodies are more elemental even than the four elements; being unmixed and completely filled with pure primal essence, they do not receive in themselves any trace of division. These primal bodies possess an infinite number of forms, one among which is the spherical, and it is out of spherical atoms that, they say, the soul is constituted."

Here, Iamblichus is refuting the Atomist of his day, Democritus & Leucippus. I believe Iamblichus is saying here that souls have infinite possibilities of taking whatever form Nature has constructed.

Turning back to SH 3:4– the soul moves itself, and energizes all beings. Namely, the 4 elements alone, cannot energize all things. That is what Soul does. So, in Soul’s infinite number of forms, receives not division because it is indeed constituted, or causes by the All ( God).

Now looking CH II [12]

"God is not mind, but the cause of mind’s being; He is not Spirit, but the cause of spirit’s being…"

So God is the cause of Soul’s being, but He isn’t Soul. (that is another discussion!) in CH X, God’s activity is to Will All things into being. Thus, this makes me agree with Iamblichus. As far as the spherical atoms that make up the Soul—I looked to CH XII [1] to understand that and to me it makes sense. If gods are immortal humans and humans, mortal gods; so The spherical nature of “what constitutes the souls”, as Iamblichus purposes, is at least to me, Hermetically sound.

Now looking at DH 1:3

"Just as soul keeps up the figure (while being) within the body, which cannot possibly be constituted without a soul, likewise all of that is visible cannot possibly be constituted with out the invisible.”

This kind of rings back to SH 3:9 — that “4th kind of soul that moves inanimate objects. While I believe in DH 1:3 “the invisible” here could be referring to God, but I think, “the invisible” could mean Soul, when looking at the verse under a different context, in purpose of supporting Iamblichus’s Hermetic influence (could be a stretch but I included this anyways).

Paragraph 3

"Closely allied to this opinion there is a view, not handed down by tradition but plausibly derived from it, which makes the soul combination of all the qualities and the simple summation of them, whether arising as a result of them or existing prior to them."

Not it’s a little unclear to me if Iamblichus is viewing Soul’s as associated with bodies, or if he views them as an incorporeal quality. Referring to the Stobaean Hermetica chapters 16 and 20 seem to support Iamblichus—IF he’s concluding that Soul’ are bodiless(incorporeal). Which he does in the next paragraph.

SH 16 states:

"Verse 1: the soul is a bodiless reality. Though it is in a body, it does not loose it’s essential principle."

SH 20 reiterates this.

Paragraph 5

"…while many of the Platonists and Pythagoreans adjudge it to be the attunement which is interwoven with the cosmos and inseparable from the heaven."

Now this paragraph is speaking on the “Attunement of the Soul.” This attunement is not inherent in bodies. Iamblichus calls it a “mathematical attunement.”

This corresponds very well with SH 19 in my opinion.

"Now the Soul is an eternal intelligent reality, employing intelligence as its own rational faculty. Contemplating its own thought, it becomes cognizant of harmony.

In verse 3: "now there are two kinds of life and motion in the soul: one is in accordance with intellectual reality, the other being in accordance with the natural body."

These two verse from the Stoabean Hermetica perfectly support the Soul’s “mathematical attunement” along with this attunement being interwoven with the Cosmos(natural body SH19:3) & inseparable from the heavens (intellectual reality SH 19:3)

Paragraph 7

"…separates the Soul off, inasmuch as it has come about as following upon Intellect, representing a distinct level of being, and that aspect of it which is endowed with intellect is explained as being connected with the intellect certainly, but also subsisting independently on its own, …"

Here I cited SH 19:3 again. Along with SH 3:6-7–

SH 3:6-7 — "When the soul of mortal animals separates form it’s non rational parts, it does off and into the divine body, which is ever moving and moved in itself. The human soul has a portion of the divine. Yet non-rational elements, namely drive and desire, are attached to it."

Paragraph 8.

"Orpheus himself considered that the soul was separate and one and that out of it there springs many divisions, and that many intermediary “breaths” descended to the individual souls from the universal soul."

This immediately led me to think of Corpus Hermeticum X [7] & from the Stobaean Hermetica 23:14. Here we see that God(the universal Soul) indeed does dispense all the souls in the universe. In SH 23:14–we see that God fashions the souls from “a good amount of his breath, and by an act of intellect mixed it with fire.”

CH X [7]— "In the General Discourses did you not hear that all souls whirled about in all the cosmos—portioned out, as it were — come from the One Soul of All?"

SH 23:14

Chapter 2. The Power of souls.

Paragraph 10.

"According to those who think that the soul lives a double life, in itself and one in conjunction with the body, they are present in the soul in one way but in the common anime in another, as Plato and Pythagoras think."

Now Iamblichus isn’t always clear on who he sides with when presenting these theories from other philosophers. But this sentence/theory rings the most “Hermetic” to me. Let’s see if there’s any Hermetic literature that can support this “double life” of the soul:

We will be looking at a few chapters in the Stobaean Hermetica(SH) specifically 2B, 3 & 19.

SH 2B:6-7

So early on we are presented with a two fold nature of the Soul within this “battle” that must take place within the Soul.

More specific examples here:

SH 3:1-4

Here we are presented with in verse 4 that the soul is ever-moving and energized the motion in other beings. In verse one it makes it explicitly clear of the souls two fold nature:

Immortality

always moving.

SH 19 should help solidify our beliefs that the souls “double life” is a sound hermetic theory that I myself would be comfortable following. We could go into more Hermetica to explain *why* the Soul is immortal—another day perhaps?

SH 19: 1-4

Here, we clearly are told of the two kinds of life and motion within the soul: one in accordance with intellectual reality and one in accordance with the natural body. That “double life” of the soul that is “in itself” and “one in conjunction with the body” as described by Iamblichus should very clear now.

See verse 1 for how the Soul is also “in itself” —this rings back to the “Battle within the Soul” verses in SH 2B. The Soul employs or assigns intelligence. When we shed our physical body (desires and passions). To me, this is how the soul is also “in itself” while also being in “conjunction with the body.”

May come back to expand on that if I can…

Paragraph 11.

(To be continued…)

[eren-the-eldritch]

okay so since everyone (me) has been asking (no one asked) to see my eldritch god horror creation thing (i am making this up no one asked for this) i guess i can share a little(lot) bit

Ah'legethoth

In the case where man grows detached from the reality whither man is born; when one’s connection to the waking world turns into something purely physical as they resign from their pursuit of dreams and withdraw from held, if any at all, relations; when an individual only continues existence out of the necessity of living after being brought into being, it is then that their weakened mind becomes susceptible to his pull.

Exiled to ink black infinity, lone without a single nebula or kaleidoscopic galaxy to gaze upon, trapped long enough for many distant suns to fulminate, for many stars to have the time to realign themselves in a variety of patterns so much as to have patterns repeated, and for humanity to start anew many times over, there exists an incomprehensible primordial evil, peering into our plane of existence for vague reasons that can only be theorized. Whatever the goal, if any, of this malicious thing is, the success of it is bound to bring ruin to many.

He is said to invade the minds of once ambitious now apathetic drifters and hear the unfulfilled dreams of those who cannot bring themselves to sleep. Then, it is through noiseless whispers that he makes false promises of fulfillment and respite to those who cannot hope to gain it through their own insignificant efforts. In optical hallucinations and surreal visions, he comes as everything the human mind could ever develop desire for in another and provides every fathomable materialistic want to be dreamt of. His avatars and speech are crafted with perfect precision to deceive and manipulate. It is when you fall for his false promises of satiation; when the naivety of the delinquent subconscious mind makes the woeful decision to believe his deceit and mistake it for authenticity; when you favor his mendacious identity as opposed to living truth and your being relinquishes its hold on the last tearing, incorporeal cord anchoring you to this plane of reality and instead latches onto the thread that he extends, you are no longer your own. It is said that only then does he become visible to the unfortunate individual alone in his truest shape; an obscure mass built up by innumerable tendrils of the deepest black with an untold multitude of red threads that wrap around his form, each whipping through the air like a scorpion's tail before piercing it's victim and siphoning out a brighter red, but that red is not blood. No mortal is given the time to realize they were misled by this abomination.

Torn from their individual prisons of nothing, Ah'legethoth welcomes them into his own.

Epithet

Ah'legethoth

Legethoth

Lord of H’Soth

Lonely God

Separator of Souls

Promisor of Satiation

Lying God

Invader of Minds

Holder of Strings

Devourer of Dreams

Thing of Invisible Darkness

Him Who Promises Respite

Prince of Nothing

H’Soth

It is the deepest, shallowest plane of existence with an overwhelming brightness that blinds and dull darkness that disorientates. It is incomprehensibly vast, claustrophobically small, and full of the opposite of everything in all worlds that are to be and have been. It is full of emptiness, so empty that the space itself is only prevented from collapse due to the lack of substance present to fall. It is the realm of which the human mind will never possibly be capable of fathoming nor daydreaming of. The utter absence of presence that has never not been present.

This domain is the exact embodiment of nothingness that would vaporize the human psyche if bared witness to, leaving even more nothingness in its place, and it is said that it is the sole prisoner confined to this nothingness for unknowable millennia that rules over it as its Lord.

At some point, at this malignant entity’s will, this space slowly filled with distorted mockeries of earthen structures. Crumbling cliffs with debris levitating in orbit, samples of drastically different cities madly sewn together without any architectural sense, hard rain that never stops descending, looping forests with trees that bend without breaking in the false wind of the storms of his creation; all of it is his doing alone, changing indefinitely in response to his whims. It is he, Lord of H’Soth, who has full jurisdiction over whom is allowed entry and exit, though those who enter are never kept sane long enough to use the faculty of recollection and realize they are not meant for this place.

Simultaneously nothing and everything is H’Soth.

The Aimless

Of the recorded encounters with this beast, very few manage to capture a clear image of what this horror actually is. The inconsistencies and ambiguity of the being may be a direct consequence of its withdrawn nature that confines it to the night and all other places where light is obscure or away. It has been described as both thick and thin formless black smoke and shadow that slithers and squirms inchmeal flat against the ground like spilled liquid. When any place is completely submerged in darkness, they are unable to be discerned from the earthen shadows and darkness we are familiar with. It is a thing seemingly drawn to life yet does not appear to hold ill intent nor any intent at all. Though it can wrap around more tangible entities, the same is not true reversed; any earthen structure animate or inanimate is incapable of grasping this being. Little is known of them, their origins, nor why nor how they roam the mortal plane, but it is known that they must hold some connection to him.

They can be faintly seen billowing out from beneath his grotesque mien and tend to follow close behind where he appears, not as though they are restricted to his side nor as if they have any want to be there, but as if they have no other place to be. A few bolder ones will wrap around one of his million tendrils and camouflage their darkness against his. If they are not in view when he appears, they are sure to remain close, for it is his noiseless orders that give them purpose. It is only if it is his desire that they become hostile.

Spotting one of these beings is an almost sure sign that some manifestation of Ah'legethoth is near.

Necronomicon Page 1/???

ok that’s all thankies sm for looking :3 <3

[onlinetrendingfeatures]

High School Hottie: Slay Your Back-to-School Style        

#BackToSchooloutfits #FirstDayofschoolOutfit #backtoschooloutfitshighschool # firstdayofschooloutfithighschool.

High school is a time of self-discovery and expression. What you wear can say a lot about who you are. If you want to make a statement and turn heads this school year, it’s all about finding that perfect balance between style and substance. This guide will help you navigate your wardrobe choices to ensure you look sharp, feel confident, and stand out from the crowd.

Effective Theme

Think of your wardrobe as a story. Choose a theme that reflects your personality and sets the tone for your look. Whether it’s urban chic, sporty elegance, or laid-back casual, having a cohesive theme helps you mix and match pieces effortlessly, making it easier to create standout outfits daily.

Color

Color is your silent statement. Bright hues can energize and lift your mood, while cool tones offer a more refined vibe. Experiment with bold colors or classic neutrals depending on your mood and style. Don’t shy away from adding patterns or contrasts to make your outfits pop.

Durability

You need clothes that can handle the hustle of school life. Look for high-quality fabrics that withstand the rigors of daily wear. Durable materials like denim, cotton blends, and performance fabrics ensure that your clothes remain in top shape, even after repeated washes.

Size and Dimensions

Fit is crucial. Clothes should be neither too tight nor too loose. Proper sizing ensures comfort and allows you to move freely. Pay attention to the cut and fit of each item. A well-fitting outfit makes a world of difference in how you feel and how you present yourself.

Mobility

School days are long and busy, so comfort is key. Opt for clothing that offers good mobility—stretchy jeans, breathable shirts, and flexible footwear. You want to be able to move freely between classes, activities, and social events without feeling restricted.

Expandability

Invest in pieces that offer versatility. A stylish jacket, a classic pair of jeans, or a versatile dress can be dressed up or down. Look for items that can be layered or accessorized to create different looks with the same base wardrobe.

Security Features

For added practicality, consider clothes and accessories with built-in security features. Pockets with zippers or hidden compartments can keep your essentials safe, from your phone to your school ID. Security features in your bags and backpacks are also crucial for keeping your belongings secure throughout the day.

Security Weight

Choose lightweight materials that are comfortable to wear all day. Heavy fabrics might look great but can be cumbersome during long school hours. Lightweight clothes are easier to carry, pack, and layer, making your daily outfit choices more manageable.

Modern Touch

Stay on trend with modern touches. Incorporate the latest styles in a way that suits your personal taste. This could mean adding trendy accessories, experimenting with new cuts, or incorporating popular patterns. Keeping a few contemporary pieces in your wardrobe ensures you remain stylish and up-to-date.

Design

Design matters. Look for clothes that offer a blend of style and functionality. Unique designs, whether through distinctive cuts, interesting textures, or stylish details, can make your outfits stand out while serving practical needs.

Packing Power

Consider how your clothing fits into your lifestyle. Items that are easy to pack and manage are ideal for students who are constantly on the move. Choose clothes that travel well and don’t require constant adjustments or maintenance.

Ample Space

Ensure your backpacks and bags offer ample space and organization. You need enough room for your books, laptop, and other essentials. A well-organized bag can make a big difference in your daily routine, helping you stay prepared and stress-free.

Made Of

Be mindful of the materials your clothes are made from. Opt for fabrics that are comfortable, durable, and easy to care for. Cotton, wool, and synthetic blends can provide the right balance of comfort and functionality, while also being budget-friendly.

Convenience

Look for clothes that are easy to care for. Items that are machine washable and require minimal ironing or special care save time and effort. Convenience in your wardrobe ensures you spend less time on upkeep and more time focusing on what matters.

Material

The choice of material affects both the look and feel of your clothes. High-quality materials enhance comfort and longevity. Whether it’s breathable cotton for hot days or cozy flannel for cooler weather, choosing the right material ensures you’re prepared for any situation.

Warranty

Some brands offer warranties or guarantees on their products. This can be a sign of their confidence in the durability of their clothing. It’s worth considering, as it adds an extra layer of protection for your investment and helps ensure you’re making a wise choice.

Special Features

Look for special features that add value to your wardrobe. This might include moisture-wicking fabrics, anti-wrinkle properties, or built-in UV protection. These features can enhance your comfort and convenience, making them worthwhile additions to your outfits.

Slaying your back-to-school style is about more than just looking good. It’s about finding the right balance between style, comfort, and practicality. With the tips and insights from this guide, you’re equipped to build a wardrobe that not only helps you stand out but also supports your daily needs. Embrace your unique style, stay confident, and make this school year your most fashionable yet.

[whatsinyourstory]

What Compels a Used Book So Extraordinary?

Before we make a plunge here, it's presumably best to recognize that this post isn't being composed from a completely impartial viewpoint. Universe of Books just sells used books online, along these lines a component of predisposition can't be precluded. In any case, even with that disclaimer, there's still a lot to say for utilized over new.

We should look at books and vehicles briefly. Genuinely, stylishly and practically they don't share an incredible arrangement for all intents and purpose, valid. Notwithstanding, with regards to recycled models and those hot off the creation line, there are a few likenesses.

Right off the bat, you basically depreciate it the second you drive off the forecourt or turn the principal page. Whenever you've accepted possession, it immediately becomes utilized. Of course, you get to partake in the fulfillment of being the first, appreciating the immaculate cover and wonderful paintwork; then there's the smell, gracious the smell! At any rate, enough of that.

The issue is that all sentiments blur. At last, a vehicle is there to get you from A to B (securely, financially and quickly) and a book ought to be perused. New or utilized, those capabilities don't actually change. However, this is where the relationship self-destructs a bit.

While the particular of vehicles can change greatly from year-to-year, model-to-show, the printed word continues as before. It doesn't exactly make any difference assuming that you purchase a duplicate of Oliver Bend that is 10 years old or a day old, the story won't change. Certainly, reference books might have corrections and extraordinary versions are delivered at times to stir up the coals a little, in any case the center of the substance is firmly established.

Then, at that point, obviously you need to conclude whether you favor the exemplary styling of an Aston Martin DB5 or the quicker, air stream tried, ergonomically wonderful present day partner. A calfskin bound first release will constantly draw in a specific crowd, while the most recent reissue has its own market. There is no correct, it's simply an issue of taste.

But instead than trashing the instance of new books, we should see the reason why second hand books online doesn't mean second-rate.

1. They're modest

The fundamental explanation, first and foremost, the vast majority decide to purchase a trade-in book is basically on the grounds that it is a lot less expensive than getting an unblemished duplicate from the nearby bookshop. Why burn through £10 when you can get it for £1?

While all books keep a specific inherent worth, most lessen essentially with age. There are special cases for each standard obviously, a few books have figured out how to get an eye-watering $7.9 million at closeout; all things considered, it was the extraordinarily interesting and profoundly sought after collection Birds of America, yet at the same time it is surely second hand and very nearly 200 years of age.

2. They have a set of experiences

A fresh out of the box new book might have a specific immaculate appeal, yet one thing it can never imitate is history. The existence of a used book is a secret. Who else has claimed it, where has it been, what ended up paging 142? Except if you are unbelievably devoted, it's far-fetched that you can at any point respond to these inquiries. What's more, that is totally fine.

Indeed, some might have been stained by nicotine, hold undesirable and surprising additional items inside their pages or incorporate stating that doesn't agree with current sensibilities, yet that is all important for the delight of used books. They are more than a little flawed, they have been adored and treasured by others, yet they generally convey a persona.

3. They have a one of a kind appeal

This leads pleasantly on to the following point - enchant. Once more, this is definitely not a quantifiable ware, nor is it something that you can endeavor to produce. Beguile accompanies blemish; scraped covers, stale smelling scents and symbolism that has a place in some other time completely.

Obviously a used book may just be a month old, yet it can in any case have something that you can't exactly place.

4. They assist with saving the planet

Why purchase a book and afterward toss it out two or three days, months or years down the line? While you might have burnt out on it, that doesn't mean the book's normal life is at an end. You could give it to a companion, give it to noble cause or make a couple of pennies by selling it on.

So by purchasing second hand, you can successfully reuse an entirely decent book. In this manner, indirectly, you will do your piece to save the world. An honorable demonstration if at any time there was one.

5. They may be your main decision

New books don't endure forever. At the point when a distributer reassesses, that is all there is to it - the book turns into a limited asset. So on the off chance that you're searching for another duplicate of an exceptionally old or marginally dark title, it may not be essentially as simple as you maybe trusted. It's on occasions such as these that you ought to be thankful to those individuals who prized their books and yet again delivered them into recycled dissemination.

When new just isn't a choice any longer, preloved makes its mark.

6. They're modest

Gracious, did we specify that they're modest?

So what is your take? Is it true or not that you are a used book gatherer that could constantly favor something a little worn around the edges? Is there a specific trademark that draws you towards utilized titles over hot off the press options? Perhaps you favor flawless and avoid defective pre-adored books. As usual, we'd very much want to hear your considerations.

Be smart and Buy Used Books Online Now!

[spidermilkshake]

Ancardia's Greatest Monstrosities: The Bubota

Classification: Monstrosity (???)

Habitat: Burial zones, barrows, etc., most common on the Surface and in isolated places, such as mountaintops and on islands.

            The Bubota is a being that arises unnaturally, but unlike many other similar creatures of an undead origin it is generally very benign towards living things. The presence of Bubota in graveyards, crypts and atop burial mounds is thought to be due to the building abundance of arcane energies that arise from the cultural significance of the dead and death rituals, grief, and the continual maintenance of such places—the natural arcana present in people and rituals accumulating until resulting in the spontaneous arrival of one or possibly more Bubota. Such entities are not usually anything other than solitary, so it is probable that it takes a far older burial site to build enough magical energies to generate more than one Bubota.

            Its physical form is described as humanoid, with a dark, shadowy hue to its skin (if it indeed has skin). It slinks about on bare feet and wears only a loose, often ragged garment that is likely created from a scavenged burial shroud—revealing the ends of its long arms and legs which have proportionally very long, thin fingers and toes. A bubota’s face is usually hidden in the shadows of the hood-like part of its shroud, but its large, round, reflective eyes are plainly visible even at a great distance, reflecting a bright whitish hue at the slightest of ambient lighting. It is nocturnal, never being seen before the hours of dusk or after the first hour of dawn, and it is not well understood what it subsists on. It does not attack any known living creatures and has never been caught at disturbing dead creatures either. Much of its behavior, when confronted with a humanoid, implies it is wary and well-aware—as a bubota will quickly hide when it knows it is being observed, peeking out at odd intervals and waiting until the intruder leaves. If approached closer, its great agility and intellect are engaged as it slips away and tries to gain more distance from whatever disturbs it. The only known instances of a bubota attacking are when they are already provoked—and its response to attacks reveal it is quite a dangerous being to tangle with. Bubota possess otherworldly levels of strength and natural arcane abilities, able to subdue humanoids twice their mass with only bare hands and having the ability to become partially incorporeal, as well as being able to spit caustic substances laced with both elemental fire and elemental frost with great accuracy within about 20 feet of themselves. It is highly recommended that explorers and those wandering graveyards at night do not antagonize the local bubota, nor startle them with loud noises.

            What little scholarly material exists of the carcasses of bubota seems to suggest that, contrary to popular belief, it is not originally form of a dead body at all, but the composition of its form mostly consists of unidentifiable fibers and grave dirt, which a dead bubota will deliquesce into should it be killed in any manner. These reports are from an older time, so it is difficult to judge their accuracy, but they seem to come from what at the time was a reputable source.

[nekasu]

Despite being a notorious trickster and abusing exact words, Neka was actually a fair believer in contracts and equivalent exchange. As long as he was offered something of value to him, he would try to offer something in exchange. Of course, there was nothing that obligated him to do so; no single act of charity necessarily required a response in kind, but something about discussing things with another kitsune that wasn't that brat Yae put him in good spirits.

"No, it's not a power unique to kitsune of Teyvat. It is solely unique to me, and while I would normally be happy to have such a trait, it isn't a blessing so much as it is a curse. Once it reaches a certain point, it will be irreversible, and if all nine tails are transformed, I will immediately die. Granted, what happens afterward is the interesting part, that doesn't mean I enjoy it. Eventually it'll happen on its own, but other than the fact it's fated to occur in the future, I have no idea as to when." Each progressive tail had its own 'theme'; the first one was Stagnation, the second was Hindrance, and so on. Only once all nine tails bore the same markings would his form be subsumed by the famed Fox of Calamity.

"But yes, as I am the only junko remaining in Teyvat, I couldn't tell you what my 'true nature' is, but I do follow most of those rules, yes. I am mostly self-taught, and perhaps I came into some abilities sooner or later than others, such as regeneration. I've never tried to incorporate other creatures' aspects into my own. I do have my own pride, after all." He'd spent his time mastering his strengths, after all, not bothering investing valuable time in learning gimmicky abilities that couldn't always be relied on.

"Most of those functions can be replicated with my own onmyoudou skills. Observe." Holding out an arm, Neka called forth a red claymore-looking sword that even a dilettante could tell wasn't sharp at all. He swung the weapon down on a mid-sized boulder off to the side of the duo. Neither the rock nor the sword bore any signs of damage, though the former had become marked with a black inky substance. Despite clearly weighing at least 20 kg, the boulder began levitating off the ground like a balloon, not stopping until it was a small dot in the sky, around 30-40 meters up. Even though it was difficult to clearly see, the fire suddenly engulfing it and subsequent explosion were impossible to miss.

Neka dropped his 'sword', though it disappeared into dark crimson mist that quickly faded before it hit the ground. "I can turn any inanimate object into my shikigami, regardless of their original form. From there, I can carve any instructions I wish into them. For example, making it super light, fly up into the air, catch fire, then explode, or anything I can think of as long as my will is strong enough." It was a skill Neka was exceedingly proud of, one that nobody he knew could ever replicate, though perhaps it was because of the nature he'd explained to her.

Hearing him offer a demonstration of something he hid in kind caught her focus almost immediately. Ears rising in interest, collective tail swinging a little with some excitement, and a hum in curiosity. She didn't know what to expect, given how different she knew Kitsune could be between Realms with the few she'd met. Though even without any expectation, the change to one of his tails came as a surprise, and one that earned a soft "Oooh!"

Stepping closer and to Neka's side, she looks at his tails a bit after the one had reverted. A hand rising to her chin as she took a breath to speak. "Tail-based transformations...? That's an interesting way for a power to work, in all honesty. Though It makes me wonder if it's the same across other Kitsune of Teyvat, or if there's unique variations per Kitsune..." A pause as she hums again, this time in thought as she steps back and lets her eyes close for a moment.

"From the little I've gathered from meeting Kitsune of other Realms beyond my own, the same base principles exist. Kitsune are more spiritual beings by nature, not necessarily meaning they pray or believe in some deity, but unlike Demons being Infernal, Angels being Heavenly, or Humans being Souls, we're more attuned with nature and magic. All Kitsune are Fox-based in their true forms, and can grow up to nine tails, and the powers they have get stronger with each."

Kyuushi's eyes open again after, though their gaze turns downward as she lets go of her chin to hold her hand out in front of herself. "Kitsune of my Realm, like other Kitsune, gain power with each tail they grow. However, in my Realm, it's a little different. For a normal Kitsune of my Realm, they gain new Magickal capabilities with each tail, and those of their previous are sometimes improved."

Closing her hand, she keeps one finger extended. "Our first tail grants us the ability to shift between our Feral and Human form, the ability to make our ears and tails invisible - though they remain physically present- and full prehensile control of our tails." A second finger extended. "The second improves on the earlier two capabilities, allowing the ability to change aspects of our appearance like hair color, and allowing us to physically hide our ears and tails."

She raises her hand some as a third extends. "Our third tail, however, is when we start to truly gain our Magicks. Able to change our appearance age-wise, though only by about five human years younger or older. Magick to transform into other - non-magical - animals. The ability to speak with, and understand, any and all creatures. Condensation of Magic under the feet to be able to stand, walk, and run in the air, on water, or on unstable ground. And minor regenerative Magicks allowing small cuts and light burns to be healed in minutes."

Opening her hand again before she finishes. "From there, those base abilities become stronger and stronger with each tail, and new ones are gained as well, which will then be improved too. For example, the ability to chose any one trait of another animal, and apply it to one's self temporarily, which later becomes the application of two traits. Then later on allows the application of traits belonging to Mythical beasts, and even later still becomes strong enough to replicate functions of things like a Dragon's flame sac and fire breathing."

[pihukaifler]

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[scriptaed]

his side, her side | 12:02 a.m.

genre: angst/fluff/implied smut;

pairing: reader x jungkook;

length: 1.7k;

synopsis: a collective snapshots in time shared between two, whose fates were undeniably intertwined and futures would never come to be.

her side;

[12:02 A.M.] happy 420 birthday hahah

Casual yet thoughtful with a dash of humor—it’s the least embarrassing text you could muster. The clock had just struck twelve, marking the first hour of his birthday, and you had spent the past ten minutes crafting a text of four words that he would probably spend a mere three seconds skimming through. The thing is, if you were to be completely honest with yourself, two minutes is an underestimate of your total time wasted on this simple task; because truth is, you’ve been entranced by your daily reveries and nightly fantasies that were your dreams ever since your paths have intertwined for the first time on a project at work. 

Your history with him began much farther into the past than five months back, however. Aloof, cold, yet chic, Jungkook and his nicely kempt, side-swept hair had caught the eyes of every girl in your orientation group just two years prior. Perhaps it was your preference for exuberant boys or your avoidance of bad boy lookalikes, but Jungkook had left little to no impression on you during the first half of the year. Sometimes you wonder if he, too, had failed to notice you. 

Ironically, it was only when your second partner at work had pointed out the charming looks of the boy’s that you were reminded of his existence. 

“Hey, you know that guy from across our station?” she whispers under an impending fit of giggles. 

“Oh,” you pause for a moment to scavenge through a mental image of work, “you mean Jungkook?” 

“Yeah, you know him?” 

“Well, we’ve talked occasionally—” more interestingly, you’ve noticed his multiple failed attempts to befriend another man, Taehyung, who’s been pining for you in the past months… but you decide to keep that to yourself for the sake of Jungkook’s suave reputation “—but why?” 

 “Don’t you think he’s kind of cute?”

“Uh… I guess?” 

It wasn’t a lie. Really. Precisely half a year ago, the boy was just another one of your colleagues  with a slightly above average look. From meeting at orientation and occasionally bumping into each other in the coffee room, you had never paid much attention to him; but it’s almost as if your friend’s admiration had suddenly piqued a newfound interest in him… because the more you think about it, the more you’ve realized just how often you’ve crossed paths with this boy you’ve probably spoken to for less than a total of one minute. Now, you wonder: has he also come to recognize this oddity between you and him?

There was an undeniable connection, nonetheless. Between you and him, like two classmates sneaking peeks at the other, one knew of the other, despite the lack of effort to communicate. The opportunities to meet were endless, but neither made the leap to fully engage until the both of you recognized the other when you were partnered for a shared project just months prior—and ever since then, flutters of your heart has incorporated itself into your daily routine. His smirks at your dumb jokes, his primmed grin at your clumsiness, his divinely chiseled jawline, his subtle gestures of concern over your nightly walk home, and his hushed presentation of which his words were reserved for the occasional curt jokes and uncensored curses became his irressitable charm. 

Before you knew it, your friends would watch you awe over his looks of which you would claim to be his only redeeming quality. Before you knew it, your feelings grew by the second but your heart shunned the possibility out of a last resort to save an impending ache. 

He’s too good looking. Too many girls fawn over him. He has absolutely zero interest in you. He isn’t that great anyway. What does he have going for him other than that damn crooked grin of his? And his muscular build? And his overly explicit jokes that you never would have thought would come out of the mouth of a remote man like him? 

Why does fate seem to perpetually tie you down to a man like him, time after time? Perhaps it’s the hopeless romantic in you that’s speaking, but from orientation to bump-ins both inside and outside of work, you’ve started to succumb to the idea of a destiny in which fate would inevitably bring you two together. 

[3:04 a.m.] thank you! Lmao

You would soon awaken to the next morning after a night long of anxious anticipation. Your heart would panic in a frenzy at the mere heart he had sent you as a reaction to your message. 

3:04 A.M.

He must have been awake late into the night, probably playing his last round of Fortnite. You would probably tease him tomorrow over his obsession with computer games, as you always did, and he would probably laugh it off with a plea for you to stop your incessant teases.

...or, he was up with that one particular woman you had seen him chatting with at work. You were never the type to overly inspect punctuation use or time stamps—hell, you were never the one to chase in the first place—but why else would he be up so late on his birthday? The sighting of the two and their names that would pop up occasionally on your social media feed would always sting your chest—and ashamedly so. 

She’s beautiful. She’s popular. She probably got along well with Jungkook—something which you never seemed to be capable of, for your eyes would waver and your mind would blank whenever you were around him. Jungkook probably saw much more in her than you. Even though you two were the familiar ones. Even though you knew him first. Even though fate provided you endless opportunities to seize yet you would never come to do. 

This is why you deny this crush of yours with every ounce of your heart. This burning, unwarranted jealousy would be the bane of you. Your friends shall never hear of this pain nor of the butterflies in your stomach instigated by that boy’s simplest of gestures—he had replied to you with a heart, not to mention. 

It’s pathetic, but it’s enough for your foolish self; because even now, at this very moment as you lay in bed with your phone over your chest and your lips stuck in a wide grin, you relish in the ephemeral heights of cloud nine. 

Despite it all, you try to convince yourself: this would be nothing more than an infatuation, for something tells you your heart could not handle the truth of his whereabouts. 

-

his side;

[12:02 A.M.] happy 420 birthday hahah

He doesn’t realize it but an evident, crooked smile presses against his lips. She’s the first and only notification that lights up his phone screen. Aside from the distant lights of the cityscape dozens of floors below, her message illuminates his eyes amidst the darkness of the hotel room.

She’s the first to remember, he repeats to himself silently, the first to wish him well. 

“What are you looking at?”

With a simple click, he turns his phone off right as the bare chest of a woman spreads warmth against his back. She begins to press firm kisses down his neck and shoulders as her hands explored his hard abdomen along with the domains of what laid beneath the zippers to his pants. 

“Let me guess,” she muses at the lack of a response to her touches, a rare occasion for him, “is it Y/N?”

“Why do you care?” he says after a stagnant pause. 

“I don’t… unless you like her,” she watches him as he does her through the floor-length mirror. “What’s she doing texting you at midnight anyway? Something special today?” 

“Fuck if I know,” he mutters when she slips her hands underneath his waistbands.”

“Does she like you?”

The boy chuckles amusedly, “the hell? No. I’m nothing but deadweight to her for our project.”

“Did you meet her through this project?” 

“No. We’ve crossed paths multiple times before,” he recalls the shifty gaze of hers with a grin. “I don’t think she likes me.” 

“Oh? What’s there not to like?” she marvels at his muscular stature as her hands went to work. “What if she does like you, though?”

Jungkook nearly bursts into laughter—or at least the most of a laugh he could muster. The thought of Y/N’s admiration amuses him almost just as much as her peculiar actions, from her constantly flickering eyes that would avoid his gaze to the dozens of times he had easily spotted her in a crowd of many in locations that could never be by mere happenstance. 

“No,” he muses, “why would she?” 

With a meek smile and a cautious heart, she peers up to meet his eyes, “and do you… like her…?”

Like her? 

“No,” the grin from the joke before disappears from his lips, for his answer was uttered with sincerity. “Not that way. We’re barely friends…”

...at least to her.

The girl’s lips stretch from ear to ear in delight. Grabbing his phone and tossing it to the side with a newly found confidence, she turns him around to place a kiss to his lips. 

“Then why do you keep smiling at your phone like that?” 

“I am? Damn, the fuck’s wrong with me?” he quips with a lopsided grin. “Another round?” 

The girl squeals when he roughly pushes her toward the bed, the back of her knees hitting the edge as she topples onto the mattress in a fit of giggles. 

The boy doesn’t know it, but the girl takes notice of the knitted brows of his that told her his mind was elsewhere. He approaches her quicker than usual, his hands are rushed, and his lips are absentminded with the sole purpose of pursuing pleasure all in a fruitless attempt to bury his thoughts elsewhere. 

Why was he grinning? What did Y/N think of him? And what is it about her that amuses him so?

Through the remaining hours of dawn, from a room that towers over the city where he figures she must be indulging in her favorite mochi ice cream, he tries to convince himself: she would be nothing more than an infatuation, for something tells him his heart isn’t prepared for its own truth. 

[thiscrimsonsoul]

Meta – Wanda & Vision Having Children Naturally: Pregnancy, Medical Complications, & Caring for the Twins

[ Trigger Warnings: Heavy medical and hospital themes having to do with pregnancy and babies ahead! ]

This meta contains all my headcanons for Wanda getting pregnant naturally by Vision, what that means for her pregnancy and health, and what raising real, half-human, half-synthezoid children is like. I’d like to have some threads with Wanda and Vision regarding the twins if possible, so I’m getting everything written down here for reference purposes. If you have any questions or comments about anything in here, let me know!

POTENTIAL AUS IN WHICH THIS COULD HAPPEN

Without Vision – Wanda has Vision’s twins, but he remains dead. Either he’s harvested and repurposed into a weapon by SWORD as he was in WandaVision, or Wanda is able to reclaim his body for burial, but he remains dead and Wanda, at least for now, is a single mother. I would be willing to write this AU either as Wanda or as another character relating to Wanda if someone else wants to write her.

With Dad!Vision – Vision’s body is taken by SWORD, but either in the early stages of her pregnancy or after the twins are born, she confronts Hayward as she did in WandaVision. Except this time, instead of leaving after she determines that she can no longer feel him, Wanda has an emotional burst of magic (like she did when she created the Hex) that, instead of creating a temporary new Vision, infuses Vision’s original body with the energy from the mind stone that she’s been storing inside her. This essentially restores Vision’s soul, memories, and personality. All that remains is to reassemble him. In an AU where Tony Stark survives Endgame, he could help Dr. Cho not only reassemble him but also restore his organic content as well, which would otherwise have rotted away during the five years he was dead. Or… a huge fudge could be done and we could just say that Wanda reassembles him and restores his organic content herself as part of her emotional magical outburst. Vision would then be restored to Infinity War status, as himself, with all his memories and emotional capacity intact. He can then help Wanda raise their twins and would likely ask her to marry him, which he was planning on doing before everything went to hell in a handbasket in Infinity War anyway. I would be willing to write this AU as either Wanda or Vision.

PREGNANCY AND BIRTH: SPECIES INCOMPATIBILITY AND LIFE-THREATNING MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS

I tend to get very detailed and realistic when I flesh out topics like this, so I didn’t just want to gloss over things and say that Wanda has a normal pregnancy. She really shouldn’t. Even if Vision is capable of reproduction (which my version of him is) and conception can occur, there are a lot of issues with Wanda carrying partially-synthezoidal children. Their genetics would be combined, and as such, their physiologies would be a blend of human and synthezoid. What does that mean for them as far as their health, appearance, and capabilities? I’ll get to that later. But first… what effect does this have on Wanda’s health as the pregnancy progresses?

Early on, the pregnancy is fairly normal, or at least there isn’t enough wrong to set off any warning bells with regard to her health. But as it progresses, Wanda will start to experience metal toxicity and vitamin deficiency symptoms. She’ll have balance problems, she might slur her words at times, she feels weak, shaky, and has fainting spells. Her skin will also become very pale, almost translucent. This occurs because most of the vibranium atoms that were contained in Vision’s… donation to Wanda, eh-hem… have already been incorporated into the twins’ bodies, and now they need more. In the absence of more vibranium, they start to compromise by drawing away other vitamins and minerals from Wanda’s body. Whatever vibranium atoms were not incorporated into the twins ended up in Wanda’s blood and organs, causing her various potentially life-threatening side effects.

The result is that neither mother nor babies are doing very well, but by this point (probably at around three months in), Wanda’s health would be noticeably bad enough for her to get help or for anyone who sees her to reach out to get her medical assistance. Eventually she will be placed under Dr. Cho’s care. Why? Well it was her technology that created Vision’s physical body, and aside from Tony, she’s the one who would know the most about what might be required by offspring of someone with such a body. Tests will need to be done on Wanda and on each of her babies to determine what is going on in their blood, which would then give a clearer picture of what was wrong, missing, etc.

Basically, it is determined that the twins need an influx of free vibranium atoms to incorporate into their bodies as they grow. They also need a specialized panel of vitamins and minerals to grow properly. Wanda, on the other hand, needs the normal human amounts of certain vitamins and minerals for herself, but then also needs to be protected from vibranium toxicity and unwanted substances ending up in her blood. Wanda lives where Dr. Cho’s laboratory is located, and is mostly told to rest as much as possible. The less she stresses her system, the better. Twice a week, her blood needs to be cleaned of any toxic substances via a filtration process not unlike dialysis. She’s placed on a strict diet as well. Ports are carefully placed for each twin that allow for vibranium atoms and essential nutrients to be directly injected into the babies.

Because this is an extremely delicate and precarious procedure to place the ports without disrupting Wanda’s pregnancy or harming the babies, she’s basically bedridden to limit the potential for tears and other injuries. Very quickly, Wanda is forced to confront and overcome her fears of doctors, labs, and needles, which is a daunting task for her. The only thing that gets her through it is the very real knowledge that the pregnancy might fail without this intervention. At this point, Vision would likely still be dead in either AU, and so Wanda views her babies as the last living parts of Vision. She’s willing to do anything, no matter how painful or frightening, to carry her twins to term.

At around 7 ½ months, however… things begin to look grim. Despite the blood filtration processes and other attempts to keep Wanda as healthy as possible, her health begins to decline again. The stress and strain of carrying two unique babies whose genetics and biochemistry are partially incompatible with her own begins to take its toll. Dr. Cho and likely Clint or anyone else who’s been frequently caring for or staying with Wanda eventually need to have a very difficult conversation with her. If she continues with the pregnancy, there’s still a chance it might fail early, but the longer she can hold out, the better chance her babies will have of surviving after they’re born. However, the longer she holds out, the greater chance that life-threatening complications will occur, such as more seizures, strokes, and toxicity conditions. In short, she’s told that she could deliver the twins early and survive, but because the twins are unique beings, there is no guarantee that they will have developed enough to survive at this point… or… she continues to carry them, and she may lose her life. Wanda chooses to continue, because she’s willing to die to give her twins the best chance they can possibly have.

Wanda is able to make it to 8 ½ months before something changes and her health declines rapidly. When she loses consciousness, the decision is made to deliver the twins by C-section. Once that’s done, Wanda is stabilized, and a potential tragedy is averted.

CARING FOR INFANT TWINS

The twins are kept on much the same supplements of vibranium, nutrients, and other minerals as they were in the womb. A powder is basically custom-designed for Wanda that she can mix into their milk. In addition to breastfeeding them, once a day she bottle feeds them milk containing the dissolved vitamin supplement. This ensures the twins have what their bodies need to grow properly. Otherwise, they’re normal, happy, healthy babies that mostly appear human to those who don’t know their unique genetics.

At only a couple months old, however, Wanda begins to notice a few interesting things about her sons, and the reasons why they required vibranium atoms begins to become apparent. Occasionally while dressing or changing them, Wanda notices patches on their bodies that look just like Vision’s “skin.” They’re red, they’re textured, sometimes they’re hard, and at other times they’re soft. The patches don’t remain, but rather they come and go, seemingly at random. At times, Wanda even catches it happening in real time, seeing their skin ripple and change, just like Vision’s did when he was employing his human disguise. The curious thing though, is that the twins are not synthezoids, but neither are they human. Their genetic code, their blood lab results, and various other statistics come back inconclusive, anomalous, or otherwise different than normal humans. They are their own unique beings, a hybrid species.

As the twins grow and become more mobile, crawling around and such, Wanda notices that sometimes the synthezoid skin would appear as a result of impact trauma. In other words, if Tommy hit Billy while careless flailing his pudgy little infant arms, that area of Billy’s skin would ripple and form hard synthezoid skin which is stiff to the touch, like armor. Or if Tommy crawls around and bumps his head on something, the same would happen where he was hit. It’s almost as if it’s part of some kind of defense response in their bodies to armor-up if they’re being injured.

CARING FOR OLDER TWINS

Once they’re older and eating solid foods, their supplements are still mixed in once a day with whatever they’re eating. The older they get, the more the twins are able to control the transformation of their skin at will instead of it just being a passive physiological response. Billy takes after Wanda with regard to his powers, and Tommy resembles Pietro’s with his, but there are indications of Vision’s abilities in them as well. Billy is able to control his density to some extent, and Tommy’s eyes have extra lenses and extended irises that allow him to adjust his vision to better see in the dark, and while moving at high speeds. He can also see a much wider spectrum of light than humans can. Billy tends to take after Vision more in personality, being more introspective, gentler, and being a sponge for information. Tommy takes more after Wanda or even Pietro (which, Wanda would inherit a lot of genetics similar to Pietro’s with them being twins, so that makes sense), being more impulsive, a prankster, and quicker to anger.

In an AU without Vision present, as they grow and develop these abilities, they begin to ask Wanda a lot of questions about the things they can do and parts of them that aren’t like her. Wanda waits until they’re at an age to understand well enough before she tells them about their father. She’s able to find video footage of Vision to show them, and she explains as much as possible about who and what he was. Above all, she makes it very clear that he would have loved them both so much. Billy is very curious about Vision and will sit with a tablet and look up information about him all on his own. Tommy… is a bit more defensive and doesn’t like to think about Vision, because it makes him sad and angry that he had to grow up without a father. The twins are very close, however, and sometimes he watches things with Billy when they’re alone.

In an AU with Vision present, he can teach them about the synthezoidal aspects of their bodies and abilities himself. He is the proudest, happiest, most hands-on and involved dad ever. He explains what he can, shows what he can’t explain, and otherwise tries to guide his sons as best he can… in amongst loving on Wanda, of course. He becomes very much like Westview!Vision as far as personality, just happy and living the dream.

That’s all I’ve detailed for now, but if I think of more, I’ll add it here. Let me know your thoughts if you like! =)

[littleblondesoprano]

Your tags are gold, but you forgot Roche and Ves

OH MY GOD HOW DID I FORGET THEM. 

My previous tags:  #THE WITCHER 2 AND THE GREAT BRITISH BAKEOFF#OH I WANT IT SO BAD NOW#I wanna see Geralt try and make a chocolate soufflé#Dandelion tries to flirt with Paul Hollywood AND Mel while his cardamom tart burns#Yen has to be held back when Paul says her cheesecake has a soggy bottom#Ciri cries at pastry week#Zolton is so close to the top three but his cinnamon wasn't strong enough#(he secretly wants Ciri to win)#Lambert's cookies get called Bland and he nearly jumps across the station#Eskel has the most Star Baker wins ever#Vesemir drinks the rum he brought to put in the cake and laaaughs#Iorveth makes everything with red food coloring because it's the 'blood of D'hoine'#(Everyone likes him because he scares Paul Hollywood)#Saskia has the most imaginative bakes#Regis likes to chat with Vesemir during off time and helps Ciri when she needs it#(much to Geralt's at first chagrin and then he was grateful)#Dethmold is the first to leave#he does NOT get a MelSue sandwich#Letho is one of the last three with Ciri and Eskel#Triss keeps trying to befriend Yen (and makes the funniest decorations) but gets voted off kinda early because she put too much rosewater in#her baked alaska

The additions: 

Roche has the worst luck of anyone in the tent. Try to make spun sugar? It rains just as he starts to twirl it. Making a custard? Eggs cook. Making a meringue? Doesn’t set and curdles. He’s the one secretly crying at the end of every episode due to sheer stress.

 Ves is very good at cooking, but she’s horrendous at baking - so she tries to make every bake savory - which works until it doesn’t. She’s sent home on the first true challenge that must be a dessert, but she made the best game pie that Paul or Mary had ever eaten. 

Iorveth’s thinly veiled threats are neither thin or veiled - all directed at Paul. Paul said Iorveth over-proved his Swiss Roll sponge and in the next Showstopper Iorveth crafted a decapitated Paul Hollywood out of his own marshmallow fondant and splattered red food coloring all over it. Everyone laughed because it’s Paul, and Sue does not let a day go by without reminding him of it. Paul is afraid for the rest of the season. 

Lambert isn’t great with construction, but Eskel almost always runs over to help (whether he asks for it or not) while Lambert yells at him that its a competition, but is secretly grateful for it - Geralt comes in behind their backs and switches the fine white sugar for salt. Eskel notices. Eskel always notices. (He switches it back before Lambert can commit murder). Lambert is Flavor King of the season. 

Eskel seems like he’s made everything before.  Everyone becomes slightly uneasy after he wins his seventh Star Baker award. He looks Paul Hollywood in the eye - He does not fear Bread Week. Eskel does not fear death, nor pastry. 

Mary Berry likes Vesemir, he always incorporates alcohol in his bakes - and it tastes good, surprisingly. 

Regis cooks with truffle oil in all of his savory bakes. Most of them are ones Mary and Paul haven’t heard of - but they’re delicious. His banter with Mel and Sue becomes Legendary. 

Geralt uses Axii one time on Paul and everyone calls bullshit when the Silver Gorilla calls his deflated, soupy crème brulee the “most delicious thing I’ve ever eaten”. He also, when Ciri wins and he can finally settle in Corvo Bianco, takes her engraved cake stand and puts it in the first Trophy spot by the entrance of the main house. Right under the portrait of herself as a child in a giant dress - he tears up a little when he thinks about Pastry Week too much. 

Triss likes to use strawberries, mulled wine, and rose water in almost everything she makes. She tries to use magic to fix a dangerously leaning clocktower of white wine flavored eclairs and Yen calls bullshit because she can’t portal to Tesco to get a chocolate mold, magic isn’t allowed - the tower falls. Murder is narrowly avoided. Geralt does not make things better. 

Ciri is youngest baker, and also wins it all - Pastry week is her worst week. She’s horrible at Technicals to begin with, and everyone tenses when Paul criticizes her because between the Witchers and Yen, they all fully expect a murder. She can’t figure out laminated dough, but pulls it out with gentle nudges from Uncle Eskel and the helping hands of Sue and Mel. In the end, she’s is neck-and-neck with Letho. Eskel plays too nice for his own good and helps Ciri when things go wrong to his own flavor detriment. Ciri thanks Uncle Eskel - Geralt rubs it in everyone’s respective faces that his daughter won.

Saskia likes to paint and decorate her bakes - they’re some of the most imaginative designs they’ve had on Bake Off, but she falls into the pit of style vs. substance. (Everyone takes pictures of her desserts when the camera turns off, though)

Dandelion likes to hum while he cooks, and his station is right behind Geralt’s - Geralt often gets songs stuck in his head then. He also lets Geralt use his station if there’s extra room and vice versa - though, when they accidentally switch custards it actually turns out better for the both of them. Dandelion is surprisingly good at Bread Week, and actually dethrones Eskel and wins Star Baker. His decorating skills are just behind that of Saskia’s - even going so far as to make a mini Roach grazing in a pastoral field of daises on his covered Black Forrest cake. Ciri likes the rendition of an Archespore he makes that fondant Geralt fights in the background. Dandelion also secures not only Mel’s number, but Eskel’s. 

No one knows how Letho got so good at baking. Not many know where Letho came from anyway; he is the silent-but-deadly sleeper cell of the season who stays middling in the beginning, before his true prowess is revealed. Ciri still beats him. 

[stuckonvenus]

OC QUESTIONS — Ridley

BASICS

What’s their full name? — Riley Angel Albright

What does their name mean? Why were they named that? — Riley means ‘valiant’ and his mothers wanted to incorporate some of his culture into his name, so his middle name is Angel.

Do they have any nicknames? — IRL: Riles IN GAME: Ridley

How old are they? — 21.

When’s their birthday? — March 31st.

What’s their zodiac sign/element/birthstone/etc.? Do they believe that holds any significance? — Aries, Fire Element, Diamond. He doesn’t think they matter at all.

What’s their species/subspecies? Do they have any special/magical abilities? — Human and he has no magical abilities.

What “class” do they belong to (for fantasy characters)? If none, what weapon do they favor? — Rogue. He favors a bow and arrows.

APPEARANCE

What do they look like? — Medium brown hair, olive-toned skin, slightly muscular, and is 5′9.

Do they have a face claim? — Benjamin Wadsworth.

What’s their style like? Clothes, hair, makeup? — IN GAME: All black including a scarf he pulls over half his face whenever he’s working, minus a cherub-shaped white pendant he hides in his tunic. IRL: Skater aesthetic, wears Thrasher tees, cuffed jeans, Vans, and oversized hoodies.

How do they carry themselves? What’s their default expression? — IN GAME: Stoic in and out. IRL: Always looks bored, always is bored.

Do they have any physical ailments or disabilities? — None.

PERSONALITY

What’s their alignment? — True Neutral.

Which one of the 16 Personality Types do they fit into? — INTJ: The Architect.

What are their hobbies and interests? Do they have any particular “favorites” (food, books, and so on)? — IN GAME: He enjoys scaling things, i.e. buildings and tall trees. IRL: His favorite food is deer steak and his favorite books/movies are the Lord of the Rings.

What are they bad at? — Describing his emotions eloquently.

What kind of things do they dislike/hate? — IN GAME: Clients who skim on details or go into too much detail, those rats in level 1. IRL: His hometown and his job.

Do they have any vices/addictions/mental illnesses? — He’s an ex-opioid addict.

What are their goals and motivations? — IN GAME: Reach level 50 and settle in the upper levels with plenty of gold to last him a while. IRL: Finish school and run for office someday.

What are their manners like? Any habits? — IN GAME: He’s very curt and doesn’t like long interactions, he tends to count his arrows multiple times on long journeys and is always looking over his shoulder. IRL: Mostly just bored and disinterested in conversation unless it’s with a cute girl, chews on his nails and smokes pot.

What are they most afraid of? — IN GAME: Nothing. IRL: Relapsing.

BACKGROUND

Where were they born? What was their childhood like? — Monterrey, Mexico. It was fairly average with very little turmoil, apart from the insensitive questions other kids would ask about his mothers.

What’s their family like? — Deirdre Albright is an interior designer with a dry sense of humor that Riley takes after, her wife Imogen Albright is a social worker who taught their son everything about being a man. He adores them both for putting up with him.

What factions or organizations are they a part of? What ranks and titles do they hold? — He is a part of no organization and only holds the title of bounty hunter.

How do they fit into their “story”? — He causes enough trouble to stay relevant in the eyes of the city guard, otherwise he blends in perfectly.

Where do they currently live? What’s their place like? — IN GAME: Whatever inn will take him. IRL: His childhood home in Kansas City.

How do they eventually die? — IN GAME: He’d eventually be caught in a soul gem by an outranking enemy. IRL: Overdose.

RELATIONSHIPS

Do they have any friends? Would they consider anyone to be their best friend? — IN GAME: He has no friends, let alone any person he would allow himself to get close enough to consider a best friend. IRL: His friends are all at college and he had to cut them out for his sobriety’s sake.

What’s their friend group like? What role do they play in it? — IRL: His old friend group partied every weekend and influenced him to do a litany of substances, he was once a willing and eager participant, now he’s known as a dejected loner.

What’s their love life like? Do they have any kids? — He doesn’t have one nor wishes for one, thinking himself lucky if he makes it to 25, let alone to an age where he’d be comfortable having children.

Who do they look up to? Who do they trust? — IN GAME: No one. IRL: He looks up to his mothers and his NA sponsor who has gotten him through extremely rough times and even recommended Nacene to him.

Who do they hate? Do they have any enemies? — IN GAME: He’s a public enemy because of the nature of his job, which he couldn’t care less about. 

Do they have any pets? — IRL: He has a pet hamster named Gimli he forces himself to look after.

Are they good with kids? Animals? — IN GAME: He tends to avoid both. IRL: He’s good with animals but adores children and is an amazing babysitter whenever given the opportunity.

FUN FACTS

Which tropes do they fit? Which archetypes? — His main archetype is the Outlaw.

Do they play any instruments? Sports? — IRL: He used to play soccer up until his sophomore year of high school.

What are some items they always carry? — IN GAME: His bow and arrows and a dagger. IRL: A lighter.

Do they collect anything? — IN GAME: He keeps any small possession his victims may have that he can carry lightly; i.e. rings, lightweight necklaces, knives, potion bottles. IRL: Comic books.

What position do they sleep in? — IN GAME: Upright, mostly in branches and up against the tree trunk. IRL: Cocooned in his blankets with a window open.

Which emoji would they use the most? — Eye-rolling emoji.

What languages do they speak? — English.

What’s their favorite expletive? — Goddamn.

What’s their favorite candle scent? — Fresh linen.

What songs remind you of them? — Kismet by XIX, 4 Morant by Doja Cat, Pursuit of Happiness by Kid Cudi.

Which animal would you say represents them? — Raven.

What stereotypical high school clique would they fit into? — The stoners.

What would their favorite ride at an amusement park be? — The one you’re spun around in until you’re about to puke.

Do they believe in aliens? Ghosts? Reincarnation or something else? — IN GAME: He doesn’t believe in ghosts since he’s never encountered one and he doesn’t think there’s anything after death. IRL: He believes in aliens but not ghosts and believes in reincarnation.

Do they follow any religions/gods? Do they celebrate holidays? — IN GAME: He’s non-religious and doesn’t celebrate any holiday. IRL: His mothers wanted to give him a well-rounded world view, so he celebrates almost every known holiday.

Which Deadly Sin do they most correspond to? Which Heavenly Virtue? — Greed and Justice.

If you had to choose one tarot card to represent them, which would it be? — The Tower.

[honestlysassygentlemen]

Which CPU Should You Buy? Intel Core i5 versus i7

For some customers on the chase for another work area or PC, probably the greatest thought is the kind of processor the framework ought to have. Two of the CPU families frequently in conflict in standard frameworks are the Intel Core i5 and the Intel Core i7. Also, that makes picking interesting, in light of the fact that the two lines share a great deal practically speaking.

The distinctions among Intel's key processor families are more clear when you're taking a gander at the Core i3 (discovered for the most part in spending frameworks) or the Core i9 (incredible CPUs for content-creation and other elite situations). The contrasts between the Core i5 and the Core i7 can appear to be unpretentious and more nuanced, particularly when the costs for a Core i5 versus a Core i7 PC some of the time can be so close.

There isn't generally an obvious, complete response to which is better in a given circumstance, and regularly, it simply descends to your spending plan. Be that as it may, knowing the fundamentals about each can help you settle on a more intelligent decision. How about we get into the vital contrasts between the Core i5 and the Core i7. (Likewise look at our Core i7 versus Center i9 explainer.)

What number of Cores Is Enough?

Basically, a Core i5-prepared framework will be more affordable than a Core i7-prepared PC, if all else is equivalent. However, much of the time, in case you're contrasting one type with it's logical counterpart (that is, a work area chip to a work area chip, or a PC chip to a PC chip, and a similar age to a similar age), the Core i5 will have less, or dialed-down, abilities. A Core i7 will regularly be better for performing multiple tasks, media-altering and media-creation undertakings, top of the line gaming, and comparable requesting jobs. Regularly, however, the value contrast will be little, so it merits messing with the online configurator of whatever PC you're purchasing to check whether you can bear the cost of a Core i7-controlled machine.

At the point when you're utilizing programming that can use however many centers as it can get (current substance creation programs, similar to the ones in the Adobe Creative Suite, are incredible models), the more centers you have in your CPU, the quicker it will perform.

The vast majority of the most recent Intel Core i5 and Core i7 CPUs have at least four centers, which is the thing that we think about the sweet spot for most standard clients. Some late-model work area Core i5 and Core i7 chips have six centers, and a couple of super top of the line gaming PCs accompany eight-center Core i7s. In the mean time, a couple of super low-power PC Core i5 and Core i7 CPUs have only two. You'll discover these basically in super slight PCs.

A similar unpleasant Core terminology has been utilized for many ages of Intel CPUs now. To ensure you're purchasing a framework with a new age processor, search for the Core ix-11xxx or Core ix-10xxx naming construction. A few CPUs intended for flimsy or standard workstations have a "U" or a "Y" annexed to the furthest limit of the model name, while others have a "G" trailed by a number that means the abilities of the chip's illustrations preparing. Chips implied for power PCs will in general end in "H" or "HK"; and those proposed for work areas have a "K" or a "T" toward the end (or simply end in a zero).

Except if you're shopping the utilized PC market, you'll discover Core i5 and i7 chips of the eighth and ninth Generation (or more seasoned) in finish of-life/closeout frameworks and some spending PCs, while you'll discover tenth and eleventh Generation contributes most new models. The unpleasant guide, in the event that you would prefer not to get in too far: To improve execution inside every age and inside each class (Core i5 or Core i7), purchase a processor with a higher model number. For example, an Intel Core i7-1065G7 for the most part has preferred execution over an Intel Core i7-1060G7.

A Quick Word on Cache

Notwithstanding for the most part quicker base clock speeds, Core i7 processors have bigger measures of reserve (the memory introduced on the chip) to help the processor manage tedious undertakings or every now and again got to information all the more rapidly. In case you're altering and figuring accounting pages, your CPU shouldn't need to reload the structure where the numbers sit. This information will sit in the store, so when you change a number, the estimations are practically prompt. Bigger store sizes assist with performing multiple tasks, too, since foundation errands will be prepared for when you change center to another window.

Reserve size isn't a represent the moment of truth spec, yet it delineates progresses from one age to another and family to family. The most recent Core i5 and Core i7 PC processors have reserve sizes of 16MB or less.

Super Boost and Hyper Threading

Super Boost is an overclocking highlight that Intel has incorporated into its processors for some ages now. Basically, it permits a portion of the chip's centers to run quicker than their base clock speed when just a couple of the centers are required (like when you're running a solitary strung assignment that you need done at this point). Both Core i5 and Core i7 processors use Turbo Boost, with Core i7 processors by and large accomplishing higher clock speeds.

Commercial

Each chip you're seeing will have appraised base and lift clock speeds, and keeping in mind that higher is for the most part better (once more: all else being equivalent), it relies upon the particular plan and cooling of the PC how long a chip can support its lift speeds, how high, and on the number of centers. That is the place where taking a gander at bare essential execution testing comes in.

Intel Core i5-10600K

Intel Hyper-Threading, conversely, is a has-it or doesn't-have-it highlight. It utilizes multithreading innovation to make the working framework and applications believe that a processor has a larger number of centers than it really does. Hyper-Threading innovation is utilized to expand execution on multithreaded assignments, allowing each center to address two handling strings simultaneously rather than only one. The easiest multithreaded circumstance is a client running a few projects all the while, yet different exercises can use Hyper-Threading under specific conditions, for example, media creation and altering work (quite, transcoding and delivering, where the product upholds multithreading) and even now and again web surfing (stacking diverse page components, similar to recordings and pictures, at the same time).

Notice

As a rule, all else being equivalent, a CPU that upholds Hyper-Threading in a given family will be more proficient than one that doesn't, if what you do everyday is intensely impacted by this element. This is even evident between Core families, which implies that it very well might be better, if your product depends intensely on multithreading, to pick a four-center chip with Hyper-Threading over a comparable six-center without.

When looking for PCs, oh, it's not in every case simple to discover data on the quantity of centers, or the presence or nonappearance of Hyper-Threading support, on a PC merchant's spec list. In the event that you can discover the chip's accurate model number, however, plug it into Intel's specs data set, which will show you clock speed, center tally, Hyper-Threading backing, and considerably more.

Understanding Integrated Graphics

Generally dainty and light workstations with Core i5 or Core i7 processors that aren't gaming machines depend on incorporated designs speed increase silicon that is important for the CPU bite the dust. Gaming machines and certain top of the line frameworks, then again, have devoted designs chips that are independent from the CPU.

Center i5 and Core i7 chips accompany various types of incorporated designs capacities. At the low end are Intel HD Graphics and Intel UHD Graphics. Iris Plus is a stage up, accessible on numerous tenth era chips. The best in class incorporated designs is Iris Axe, accessible on a couple of eleventh era Core i5 and Core i7 models.

Incorporated illustrations save power, since there's no additional designs chip on your PC's or work area's motherboard drawing juice. Intel's incorporated designs arrangements function admirably for standard profitability and show (counting multidisplay) errands. Both Iris Plus and Iris Axe can match the capacities of a low-end discrete GPU like NVidia's GeForce MX arrangement.

Coordinated designs are not very good at dealing with requesting PC games, however. While these coordinated Intel designs processors will allow you to play some new games at inferior quality and goal settings (how well shifts altogether by the game), you will require a discrete illustrations card from AMD or Nvidia to play 3D games at 1080p, 1440p, or 4K goals with the quality settings turned up. Nor are incorporated arrangements the most ideal decision for assignments that request GPU speed increase notwithstanding CPU muscle, like certain specific, weighty delivering and logical applications.

Center Outliers: Core X-Series and Core Y Mobile

Intel's Core X-Series work area processor family, presented in 2017, is focused on elite clients like limit gamers and video editors. The Core i7-7820X processor, for instance, has eight centers and, gratitude to its Hyper-Threading support, can deal with 16 strings all the while. A large portion of these chips retail for above and beyond $500 (some as high as $2,000!) and are pointless excess for generally easygoing or even standard clients who perform assignments like efficiency work and web surfing, or even most genuine PC gamers. These CPUs are situated as superior equipment for 3D delivering, numerical figuring's on huge informational indexes, 4K video preparing, game turn of events, and to a degree top of the line gaming (with different video cards).

Except if you can be categorized as one of the above pails, you can securely overlook the Core i5 (presently end of life, and not suggested) and Core i7 X-Series CPUs and pick a standard work area Core CPU all things being equal. There is no identical to the Core X-Series for workstations.

[animatedminds]

Film Review: On Jingle Jangle

Spoilers for the subsequent review: I liked it. And what’s more, there are things about it that make me happy on a conceptual level both as a writer and as an African American writer, and just as a lover of musicals and fun adventures. Read on after the jump!

It’s been a while, and I promised a review on Jingle Jangle - the Netflix exclusive film starring Forrest Whitaker, Madalen Mills and Keegan-Michael Key which came out a few weeks ago - sometime last week and never delivered. Well, here it is. And if you want the abridged version of my opinion, well, look above.

To give a short summary, Jingle Jangle is an clearly intentionally chintzy film written in the vein of classic Christmas fantasy movies. It focuses on a toymaker - a great gadgeteer renowned in his universe as the greatest of all time - who is able to see the world in amazing terms and make toys function like magic. However, on the cusp of his greatest invention, his apprentice - and the invention itself, who turns out to be egotistical and vile - betrays him and steals all his designs, breaking his heart so badly that he cannot bring up the spark to invent ever again. His apprentice grows rich on his work, while the toymaker - one Jeronicus Jangle - grows old, in the process losing his wife, after which his daughter estranges from him. And that’s just in the first ten minutes. Depressing enough for you? Well, the rest of the movie is more than sweet enough to make up for it. As you might expect from a set up like that, the turning point comes when Jeronicus’ granddaughter Journey finally gets the chance to visit him and discovers his one last, unfinished invention. Suddenly Jeronicus, now a bitter old hermit, has the opportunity to find the love he lost within him again and rekindle his spark, his daughter (played by a criminally underused Anika Noni Rose) has the opportunity to reconnect with him, and the toy shop - Jangles and Things - might finally have a future again. But look out, Jangle’s old apprentice is out of blueprints and needs one to keep his fame and fortune - and Jeronicus’ last invention is looking very profitable... As you might expect from a the description above, this movie is very by numbers plotwise. But I’ve never considered that necessarily a bad thing, as long as a film captures the charm that makes those numbers typical in the first place. The movie is very obviously trying to capture a feeling, a kind of story that - perhaps because they’re so well known by our generation - you don’t see much of any more, and so plays all those archetypical traits to the hilt. The last invention runs on “belief” - if you don’t believe it’s real or in yourself, it won’t work - and you can imagine why. The apprentice is a money grubbing showman who never understood the real point of toymaking. The narrator is an old woman who, surprise! (not really), turns out the Journey herself! Are those plot points groan-worthy? Sure, sometimes. But it also delivers those warm fuzzy feelings those groans intend, and that’s... well... magical. It’s not trying to be avant-garde, it’s only trying to make us feel joyous for a few hours. And you know what? I can appreciate that.

Because of that, my primary criticisms instead are about elements in that regard that the film doesn’t fulfill enough. The story is obviously about Jeronicus’ journey from disillusioned miser to the optimistic, loving man of his youth, but this happens too fast: he goes from yelling at Journey for messing with his stuff, to begrudgingly having a snowball fight with her that he turns out to enjoy, to suddenly having to make the crossroads to use his spark again to save her because he loves her so much, with barely anything in between: I wanted more - more stages in-between Jeronicus two poles, so that we can see him develop in a stronger way rather than kind of jump between the points we know he’s going to go through like a connect the dots drawing. His daughter's relationship is a primary plot point, but she doesn’t even show up for more than a cursory line or two until the very end, so we don’t get to see that develop much either. While Journey and her goofball sidekick carry the film, as they should, there is perhaps a bit too little time dedicated to the characters around them - seeing as they’re explicitly the impact characters affecting their family’s change for the positive. Even the villains are responsible for the whole thing are mostly are present in the story for comedy and they don’t get a lot of face time with the people they’ve affected either, all of which adds up to parts that could have had a lot more substance to them but which didn’t. The film overall is great, but the limits it puts on its own pacing and development hold it back from being as great as it could be.

However, as I noted before, there’s more than what I've just talked about going on here. There are conceptual aspects that made this one of my favorite movies this year, rather than necessarily the plot: which is only why this movie is engaging to watch. What the movie is built around is what makes it so special. First of all, a fantasy adventure movie with an entirely black primary cast is rare - entirely too rare - because African Americans simply don’t get those kinds of films in the mainstream. Realistic urban dramas, lurid romances about failing marriages, uplifting stories about rising out of the hood, etc - that’s the genres Hollywood typically allows for African Americans to star in: movies that hinge on archetypes about black existence in America and thus only sell attempt to themselves as “black movies” without widespread appeal, if one wants to go one step beyond. A musical about a magical inventor who creates a robot that lets you fly if you believe in yourself enough? Not especially, unless it’s a preachy DTV film about community. The primary villain is a Spanish matador doll with delusions of grandeur - Gaston as a toy - and its a weird and strange and outright wonderful idea. And interestingly, while this movie is themed and framed like a Christmas movie - I mean, just look at the name - there isn’t anything particularly Christmas about it beyond being about a toymaker. Jangle isn’t a Santa analogue, Christmas itself is never mentioned, nor is much of the imagery (beyond snow and winter) exceptionally Christmas reminiscent, being more of a Victorian Steampunk instead - full of gears and automatons and top hats (whoever did the costuming for this thing ought to get a medal, especially for the costuming in the bright period we see in the initial flashback). Its stuff like that that’s noticeable simply because African Americans in film don’t generally get to interact with those sorts of strange and weird and wonderful ideas. And this extends to the music. As both a fan of musicals, a Disney fan in particular, and a black writer, something I’ve noticed with no small amount of dismay is the way certain genres of music have been skipped over by mainstream. You have to go off the beaten path to find musicals that seriously incorporate hip hop, or R&B, soul, funk, etc into soundtracks and anything other than “party time” numbers that are just about the characters getting down and don’t engage the plot or the characters in a meaningful way - which gives off the impression that on a writing and developmental level, there is a lack of respect for those genres as having serious merit for meaningful usage. Oh, for sure, there’s musicals like “In The Heights” (which was fantastic, and I’m eagerly waiting for the film), but those are rare, and the closest you tend to get is Lin Manuel Miranda’s (much as I enjoy him) long bouts of recitative which are called “rap” by reviewers but aren’t really what I’m talking about when I mean genre. This film makes a point of kicking that trend in the pants, however: starting with a bombastic character establishment hip hop number, going into Motown-style R&B numbers and soul ballads and all sorts of wonderful genres of black music that have been long since lefts out of the mainstream. It’s something that I’m especially happy about and which leads me into tomorrow - when Soul arrives (and you better believe you’re getting a review of that as well) and hopefully delivers the same thing.

As a black writer, and a lover of music, and a lover of bringing new avenues of representation to film and media, Jingle Jangle made me happy in a way no film since Black Panther has, and for that along it immediately landed a spot on my list of classics even if it weren’t also a quite enjoyable movie. So as you might have guessed, thus, from the preceding - I quite recommend it for anyone looking for a wonderful cheesy time this Christmas, and also for someone looking to see how black musicals are growing and evolving.

[bonjourmoncher]

The normal individual invests more energy watching recordings online than perusing content or taking a gander at pictures. Truth be told, video represented 73% of all online traffic in 2016—implying that when somebody's on the web, there's a high likelihood they're viewing a video.

It's the simplest and most well known sort of substance to expend in light of the fact that: an) it's such a great amount of simpler to watch a video about, state, a Photoshop method than read about it, and b) it's the most dominant and adaptable medium to impart a message and draw in a group of people (second to live correspondence).

In spite of every one of these advantages that accompany pushing video content on the web, it's less focused to appropriate than content and picture. This is on the grounds that creation recordings is usually scary to the normal individual, despite the fact that it isn't that frightening.

In this blog entry, we'll experience eight useful video tips to kick you off on making recordings as a total amateur. Before the part of the arrangement, have the option to begin consolidating recordings into your organization's substance promoting procedure or even make an additional income stream by adapting recordings.

You can see the visual synopsis of this post underneath or skirt ahead to peruse a nitty gritty clarification of each pragmatic video tip.

Infographic: 8 Video Tips for Beginners

learner video tips for making proficient looking recordings infographic

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1 Plan your video content.

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In all honesty, the substance of your video matters much more than its quality.

This shouldn't imply that quality isn't significant—it sure is! However, on the off chance that you needed to give one angle more consideration, time and vitality, it would design your substance appropriately.

To design your substance, consider the accompanying three video tips:

1. Blueprint your objective

What are you hoping to accomplish with your video? Is it true that you are attempting to make individuals snicker? Is it accurate to say that you are attempting to get them to visit your site? Is it true that you are advancing your item? Showing them something new? Characterize your objective before proceeding onward.

2. Recognize your intended interest group

You can't in any way, shape or form target everybody on the planet, since then who are you truly conversing with? Not having an unmistakable vision of your optimal watcher gatherings will bring about a weakened message inside your video content. Your group of spectators will decide the manner in which you compose your content, the manner in which you shoot your video and the manner in which you alter it. It will likewise figure out where you appropriate your recordings relying upon where your primary group of spectators hangs out on the web. Consider who you need to see this, and after that consider where on the web they more often than not "hang out" so you can know to disseminate it later.

3. Utilize the intensity of feelings

Feelings are what drive watchers to finish your suggestion to take action, regardless of whether that is buying in to your channel, sharing your video or purchasing your item. It's been demonstrated again and again that feelings activated by substance are what drive the inspirations to help through with CTAs. Peruse up on approaches to trigger passionate response through recordings to normally allure your group of spectators to elevate your image to other people.

2 Pick the correct foundation.

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The foundation for your video ought to never be an idea in retrospect. It'll help recount to your story, send your message and add to your image. It will likewise influence the nature of your video.

The foundation you pick will rely upon the sort of video you're creating, your objectives and your group of spectators. The fundamental two sorts are:

Genuine Backgrounds

These incorporate a genuine domain, for example, an office, a parlor or an open air area. A few people consider this to be as the most effortless on the grounds that you get the opportunity to work with what you have. Simply ensure it's not diverting, untidy, or has whatever doesn't add to the story, message or brand.

Phony Backgrounds

These foundations incorporate green screens, shades, or papers. Phony foundations are incredible for consistency. Green screens are explicitly incredible in light of the fact that they enable you to supplant your real foundation with anything you need. Be that as it may, they are difficult to set up and work with, and aren't suggested for fledgling video makers.

Whichever foundation type you choose to go with, ensure you intentionally pick the hues that compliment the frontal area—particularly the subject you're shooting. You need to make certain the hues in the edge are agreeable: neither conflicting into an appalling blemish, nor so dull that it makes watchers nod off.

3 You don't have to purchase a costly, new camera (for the time being).

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Try not to stretch too hard about which camcorder to utilize, particularly in case you're first beginning.

While you may feel constrained to spend a great deal of cash on an amazing camcorder, it's truly a bit much in the start of your video-production vocation when you don't know whether this is something you will keep doing. Finding a not too bad camera to shoot quality recordings isn't hard nowadays. You presumably know somebody with a camera you could obtain, or you likely as of now make them lie around some place in your home (*hint your cell phone!*).

For instance, this music video was shot altogether with an iPhone X:

Eminent quality, isn't that so? Use it to further your potential benefit while you make sense of your video making attempt. This will likewise put your camera needs into point of view for when you're prepared to purchase another one so you can stay away from a superfluously costly buy.

So for the present, use what you have.

4 Avoid utilizing your camera's mic.

amateur video tips for causing proficient looking recordings to abstain from utilizing your camera's mic

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The sound of your video can represent the moment of truth your substance, and there are a couple of straightforward things that you can do to spare the respectability of your video's sound quality.

The most ideal approach to catch sound from your subject is to utilize any amplifier other than your camera's worked in mic. Utilizing an outside devoted sound recorder is the least complex and most solid approach to catch sound. Despite the fact that it's not the part of the bargain on the off chance that you need to utilize your camera's mic, you ought to in the end get a different one.

Regardless of whether the mouthpiece you choose to utilize is regarding the matter's body or on a blast, ensure that it's properly put. In the event that it's appended to garments, put it in a spot where it grabs all the correct sounds (the individual's voice), however doesn't get different sounds from gems, texture scouring or substantial relaxing. In case you're utilizing a blast, ensure it's nearby enough to the subject to get their voice, yet in addition make certain it's out of the casing.

Prior to shooting, consistently test the sound to ensure you have the majority of the above set up accurately. For somebody with no earlier sound understanding, that is normally the best way to ensure you're taking care of business.

5 Use regular lighting

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Video creation lighting is an entire framework that requires more hardware than I'm certain you have right now.

The uplifting news is regular lighting really works best in photography and shooting, and is the most ensured path for you to nail the lighting in your recordings.

It's ideal to shoot outside on a shady day, or during the brilliant hour (an hour after dawn or an hour prior to nightfall). In those three conditions, the normal light is so delicate and true to life that it won't make your subject squint, and no brutal light will hit their face.

What in the event that it downpours? For sure in the event that you need your shoot to be inside? Normal light is as yet your most solid option. Pick a room that gets a great deal of regular light through enormous or various windows. You would then be able to include extra wellsprings of light like roof lighting, table lights, etc to include more brilliance if necessary. Play and test the light with the subject's situation to perceive what looks best in video. Regardless, ensure the subject isn't confronting the window straightforwardly or too intently, in light of the fact that that could wash out your whole shot.

Once more, play with it!

6 Film in little fragments.

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Universe of Warcraft Cinematic Quest Guide

The World of Warcraft: Cinematic Quest Guide is a gigantic realistic walkthrough of the storyline journeys in World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King from the Alliance viewpoint. Consolidating WoWHead's coordinated instrument tips, it depicts the story of a Night Elf Warrior named Vikstone in his central goal to execute the Lich King and vindicate his killed family. It's a nostalgic turn between a pretending story and a journey manage, permitting all World of Warcraft veterans to re-live explicit minutes in the game's legend similarly as they all occurred from 2009-2010.

Content

Wrath of the Lich King: A Tale of Revenge

 Foreword

 Borean Tundra Quests

Howling Fjord Quests

Dragonblight Quests

Grizzly Hills Quests

 Sholazar Basin Quests

 Zul'Drak Quests

 The Storm Peaks Quests

 Icecrown Quests

 Boss Fights and Guest Appearances

Epilog

Fury of the Lich King: A Tale of Revenge

GSR Story Intro Banner

Sergeant Vikstone is an incredible Night Elf veteran getting back in the wake of battling a few missions against the Horde and the Burning Legion. Vikstone finds that the Lich King is liable for killing each enduring individual from his faction during the occasions of The Burning Crusade. His family was the remainder of an antiquated bloodline, based upon the principles of the Warrior.

You presumably believe you're very solid — battling these undead and smashing their bones underneath your war machines. That isn't anything contrasted with the quality it took to make them.

MATTHIAS LEHNER

Pledges to retaliate for them, he goes to the landmass of Northrend on a last mission to stop the Lich King, a substance the Vrykuls called "the God of Death." In this new world, he ends up in the center of one of Azeroth's most dangerous wars. Vikstone makes his important change all through the excursion so as to execute what's left of Arthas Menethil. In his journey to increase enough capacity to one day face the Lich King, he addresses his own feeling of profound quality as he chops down everybody and all that hinders him.

History has given him that anybody can be murdered, even the Lich King.

Vikstone started his story at level 70 after the occasions of The Burning Crusade. His development in gear, ability specializations (Arms, Fury, Protection) and appearances are completely caught in an ordered manner as he advances through the mission lines, from Borean Tundra to Icecrown on the Terokkar domain (around 2008-2009). It is the best endeavor of his military vocation. Experience the whole story of Wrath of the Lich King through his eyes.

More than 50 unique players help him in significant supervisor battles and first class journeys all through the game, a cycle that took more than 22,000 screen captures to catch.

Fierceness of the Lich King is the tale of Arthas' requital. His wrongdoings are uncovered to Vikstone all through the story in his few showdowns with the Lich King, before the last encounter. It is extremely unlikely to recount the tale of Arthas Menethil without recounting the tale of Vikstone.

Foreword

Northrend Atlas

Supervisor Fights and Guest Appearances

The Making of the Guide

Why the Warrior Class?

The Author's History in World of Warcraft

Guide of Northrend

Foreword

A Foreword

Borean Tundra Quests

The Borean Tundra is situated in the far western edge of Northrend, and is the home of the tuskarr, Drakkari savages, and blue mythical serpents. The Undead Scourge and the naga additionally occupy the zone. Significant milestones of the district incorporate the tuskarr capital of Kaskala and the Riplash Ruins. Coldarra is an island simply off the coast. Kaskala is right now under attack and the tuskarr have moved to Unu'pe.

Wailing Fjord Quests

The Howling Fjord is a zone situated in southeastern Northrend. Torn into the southern coastline lies Daggercap Bay, where the powers of Arthas initially arrived on the mainland. Abandoned by the youthful sovereign, the 5,000-in number undertaking set up the station of Valgarde. The little settlement has since gotten the focal point of Alliance action on Northrend. Other Alliance stations incorporate Westguard Keep and Fort Wildervar.

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Dragonblight Quests

The Dragonblight, additionally called the Great Dragonblight, is an extraordinary monster memorial park, situated in Northrend. The passageway to the nerubian realm of Azjol-Nerub can be found in the mid-west part, while the secretive Wyrmrest Temple lives in the center. The magnataur town of Bloodmar lies here additionally, just as the destroyed taunka capital of Icemist Village, and the nerubian meeting of Sundered Monolith. The Forsaken base of Venomspite, just as the Human fortress of Wintergarde Keep are situated toward the east. The Scourge bastion of Naxxramas is gliding in the skies above Wintergarde.

Grizzly Hills Quests

The Grizzly Hills, situated in southeastern Northrend, is a forested territory, encircled by the Howling Fjord toward the south, the Dragonblight toward the west and Zul'Drak toward the north. It is the country of the Grizzlemaw furbolgs. More than 20,000 furbolgs live in this zone, most in the enormous settlement of Grizzlemaw. Both the dwarven settlement of Thor Modan and Ice Troll/Scourge post of Drak'Tharon Keep can be found in the north. The principle group bases are Amberpine Lodge for the Alliance and Conquest Hold for the Horde.

Sholazar Basin Quests

Sholazar Basin is a tropical wilderness bowl amidst Northrend. It is found between Borean Tundra and Icecrown Glacier. The zone's atmosphere and wellbeing from the Scourge is kept up by arches, raised by the Titans. As of late, one arch in the east has fallen and the Scourge has accepted this open door to attack from Icecrown toward the north. They are currently gushing down The Avalanche.

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Zul'Drak Quests

Zul'Drak is a region situated in eastern Northrend. It is home to the Drakkari ice savages and their Frost King Malakk just as the littler savages of the Winterfang clan. Their capital is the city of Gundrak. Zul'Drak has a place with the Drakkari, who wander in chasing parties looking for prey. Old savage remnants are flung over the open country and the Scourge drifts just past the western outskirt, hanging tight for an opportunity to strike.

Atmosphere savvy, Zul'Drak is the least wonderful of the eastern districts. It's colder than the Grizzly Hills or the Howling Fjord, less magnificent than the Storm Peaks, and more swarmed than any of them – with a large portion of the group being Drakkari. Most different races evade this area, and in light of current circumstances. Explorers don't have to go there for section north or south — they can adhere to the Grizzly Hills, which encompass Zul'Drak on the two sides and arrive at all the path up to Crystalsong Forest and Storm Peaks. The main explanation anybody would need to visit Zul'Drak is on the off chance that they were pioneers planning to meet the Drakkari — and they better have an enormous gathering of outfitted heroes with them when they do.

The Storm Peaks Quests

The Storm Peaks are a mountain range and zone situated in the upper east of Northrend. It is the place a puzzling race of goliaths named the tempest monsters live. The third known titan city of Ulduar is additionally situated here. The breezes that tear through the mountains are incredibly savage and hazardous.

Icecrown Quests

Icecrown, otherwise called Ice Crown, is a zone made out of generally Icecrown Glacier and the quick territory around it. Icecrown is encircled by mountains toward the south. The ground is neither solidified earth nor secured with day off; is strong ice. Consequently, nothing becomes here.

Supervisor Fights and Guest Appearances

Highlighted in Boss Fights and Guest Appearances are outstanding individuals from my society Trinity Exiles and the numerous individual players who were on the Terokkar domain during that time. For an enormous bit of the experiences, it was all unconstrained, with irregular players offering to assist Vikstone, and the other way around. In the event that you played World of Warcraft in 2009 on this worker, you may be in one of the accompanying missions. One of my significant inspirations to bring back this guide was to deify my companions, a considerable lot of whom I could never find the opportunity to play with again. To me they will consistently be "Terokkar's best."

Epilog

With regards to this story, does Vikstone actually slaughter the Lich King, retaliate for his family, and spare Azeroth from certain pulverization?

It's lovely to think so.

One can essentially attempt to comprehend what Blizzard planned to speak to with Northrend. To me, it represented the subject of recovery and the possibility of Valhalla, where all champions killed in battle seek to go in Norse folklore to eat with the Gods. I needed to leave the completion of this story open, since it was the excursion that made it advantageous. As a Night Elf, Vikstone was undying to time simply like the Lich King yet at long last there would be just one man left standing. With regards to who was ethically directly in his activities, Vikstone was merciless, chopping down large number of NPCs and players all through his lifetime. His choice to battle the Lich King would have implied unavoidable passing and hence forever end his family's bloodline. He was set up to make it his last demonstration, maybe to get requital for his own violations and monstrosities that he had submitted in past missions. Was there any acceptable left in Arthas Menethil's heart? Was any man genuinely past the scope of absolution? It was an inquiry that would consistently wait in Vikstone's heart as he ended up falling into a similar obscurity that happened to Arthas.

In my heart I like to think Vikstone in the long run prevails on his last mission, pulverizes Ner'zhul, and liberates the spirit of Matthias Lehner so he can pick up recovery for his transgressions and enter Valhalla.

The last resting spot of a genuine hero.