#looking for unity here - no isolation allowed

[illegiblehandwriting1]

fyi i swear something's going on w/ legend, neither he nor wars are emotionless i promise, they're both just mentally ill but in different ways. leg sees problem. ignores feelings. fixes problem. (can't fix the problem.) wars sees problem. saw problem wrong. realizes what he did. wants to take it back. (can't take it back.) Also if y'all are disappointed about their arcs, sorry? i guess? point isn't them though, the point is that it's an aftermath story. If i can stuff in more bonus themes within the theme then that's a huge plus (emotionally repressed explorer leg, wwI vet wars yeet)

anyhoo bear with me, Things are Happening. Setup is occurring. and Hylia fans I swear I won't insult her forever, she's actually pretty chill.

writing hard. halp

[licncourt]

Maybe you already have a post about this (if so please direct me, I couldn’t find it) but if not, would you mind talking about the similarities between Louis and Lestat that make them ultimately work. I tried telling my friend they’re quite similar in different ways but she looked at me crazy

Omg I actually feel so strongly about this, I would love to talk about it! Obviously they are very different people in many ways, but there are some fundamental places where they agree deeply.

I think this post I made about Louis as an optimist is very relevant here because it's largely why I believe Louis could handle vampirism and why his and Lestat's relationship is eventually successful (in contrast to Nicki). It's definitely one of the most important similarities in my mind so I would start there, but there are others too.

Something I noticed right away in IWTV and TVL is that Louis and Lestat both have a shared eye for beauty in all its forms and it's something that's noted by them both pretty extensively in similar ways. There's a lot of overlap in the prose of the books themselves in how they notice and describe nature, artwork, music, architecture, and even other vampires that they encounter. There's always a reverence for beauty in them both and a moth to the flame type of draw. It even got them both bamboozled by Armand in their own ways. It's a motivating force in their lives and something that they both see as a constant backdrop to even the darkest parts of life.

They both have an insatiable thirst for knowledge that leads them places no one should ever go (literally and metaphorically), and I think Lestat immediately saw in Louis the same part of himself that couldn't stay away from Akasha in Marius' basement, that couldn't leave the Children of Darkness well enough alone, and so many other things. When it comes down to it, both of them are willing to get themselves and others hurt in the pursuit of understanding and of answers that make life meaningful.

That goes for experiences too. They have a shared wanderlust that maybe comes from the isolated ways they both grew up. Just like with knowledge though, they'll both pursue freedom at any expense. By IWTV, Lestat had already had his adventures and been burned by them, but Louis hadn't yet. I assume Lestat saw that in Louis as well and that's why he was insistent on restricting knowledge and exploration so that Louis couldn't find his own commedia to run away with or look for his own Paris. It was definitely the strongest pull Louis felt away from Lestat just like it had pulled Lestat away from the people he loved once upon a time (and would continue to in the future).

By the time they reconciled permanently, they'd both gotten all the adventure and all the knowledge they ever wanted and probably a lot more, so all of that seems to have kind of allowed them to settle in the same way at the same time.

It's also pretty clear that parenthood was the one thing that brought them peace and unity and fulfillment in the early part of their relationship. Lestat comes off as someone who always wanted a family of his own and was simply waiting for the opportunity, and Louis as someone who would have wanted to be a father but always thought it would be tied to a loveless marriage and miserable human life. Either way though, their desire to have Claudia once she was there seems to be have been quite evenly matched.

Of course, they have a shit ton of shared grief from that, but the joy they both got from Claudia and from fatherhood is worth something as well. Even though it ended in tragedy, having the experience of loving and raising a child together must be a bond that isn't like anything else. They both knew what it was like to love her in that way and what it was like to lose her.

Even some of their core traits are very similar, they just present differently through different personality "lenses". They're both deeply concerned with image and pride, they're both desperate to be understood by the people around them (maybe to a fault), they both have a chip on their shoulder from childhood and legacies they couldn't live up to, they both went into the sun and had to pick up the pieces, they both have something bubbling inside them that they don't have full control over and they both struggle to coexist with it. These things are so fundamental to their existence that it's almost a necessity to have a partner who will not only sympathize, but UNDERSTAND because they feel it too.

So much of what makes them work is that their traits are complementary in a yin and yang sense, but there are so many ways that they're a mirror for each other. Lestat really encapsulates it in his pitch to Louis for coming to the château when he keeps repeating "you were there". That's really how it is for them in a very literal sense of incredibly meaningful shared experiences, but also mentally and emotionally. "You were there" as in you felt it too, you know what it's like to be at war with yourself and with the world in that way and even if it was years and continents apart, you've carried that same weight, been crushed by it, and gotten back up because you had to. That's why they keep coming back to each other and why they can eventually stay there, because who else could it ever be?

[justcallme-ange]

What are some DSMP character or worldbuilding headcanons you have that you've never seen anywhere else? Pls talk about them.

Oooh, this is a tough one. So first thing’s first, I am very very new to Minecraft. Like I literally just got into playing beginning of this year. So a lot of my knowledge is either from watching Techno and Dream or fandom. So a lot of my headcanons are mishmashes of ones I've seen before. However these are just a few of the stuff floating around in my head that I haven't really seen elsewhere - sorry if this is long ^^

Worldbuilding wise…

Something I headcanon that I haven’t really seen before is that there’s like a master world - like a domain where all things originate. And player worlds/SMPs are offshoots/branches/copies of this world. So everything is interconnected, and how each world is functionally the same, but may have variations.

Another world building thing I see touched on but not really elaborated is that while there is a difference between player and mob, it's less god vs animal - and more like humans vs elves (at least for the humanoid looking mobs). Like they're not mindless (cept for zombies), and that these mobs have their own civilizations and customs outside of what players can see. In this case the mobs are like humans with short lifespans and only a little magical power - while players are the elves with longer lifespans that can be extended through magical means. This I guess is my justification for hybrids and and explanation on Admins being demigods?

DSMP character wise…

I only really play around with like... 3 characters so-

I headcanon that Techno while being pretty good about keeping a level head is prone to anxiety (pretty sure that's canon) so when he beds down for the night he tends to sleep with something heavy on top of him. (Might have been a habit kept from war - where he would sleep with a shield on top of him.) So he finds comfort in having a weighted blanket (or Dream) on top while he sleeps. Phil resting his wings on his shoulders to calm him is an elaboration on this idea.

Oh speaking of sleeping - I've seen a lot of takes on why Dream doesn't sleep or that he's a loner because "mysterious figure" and all that (and my angst brain couldn't resist). My headcanon is that he's the complete opposite. Dream's the dude who loves having roommates (Even if he tells Techno otherwise). Like he loves having people around (it's why he's fighting so hard for server unity) and that the reason he doesn't sleep is more so the fact he can't, at least not good sleep. He's used to sleeping in a place with lots of people - his friends mostly - and the silence gets to him. The community house is proof enough of that. So instead of sitting in a dark room doing nothing waiting for the sun to rise - he does... other stuff. Prison makes this even worse - because he's completely isolated, where as before he could ask Punz, or Bad to keep him company.

So not a new take- but elaborating on an already established headcanon, Philza being the Angel of Death having sway on Death. And I mean more so - he's able to lightly tweak the strings of fate. Untangle little things in a person's future. He's unable to stop their fate, but depending on how much he favors/likes/loves the person he can kind of... tug it in a new direction if the person is willing. He's not allowed to completely change things - that's ultimately a consequence of a person's series of choices, but in a game of 50/50 he can slightly tip the odds in their favor.

That's all that I could think of so far - but if anyone wants to add to here with their own heacanons feel free! I love reading people interpretations of stuff - and other world building things in general.

[nonovyabuisness]

Seeing how well my tarot life smp post did, I figured that I should do some more.

So here we have all the other life smper with their major arcana (in alphabetical order and Gem is included despite only being there for 1 session).

Enjoy !

Bdubs: The Lovers (VI)

This card generally means harmony, unity, and destiny.

When uprights the card of The Lovers represents predestined, links, love and harmonious unions. This card can mean a powerful link in perfect harmony, but it can also mean an important decisions or a crossroad. Think of your choices and you’ll find happiness forever.

When reversed this card, suggest that one of your relationships or important friendships isn’t going very well. An honest communication is crucial in order to go forward. The Lovers prove that sincerity is key.

BigB: Strength (VIII)

This card generally means true power that is not obtained through physical means, but more through courage, tenacity, and compassion.

When upright Strength is a positive sign that shows determination, common sense and savvy necessary in order to meet and overcome challenges. In order to have better results this card suggest to use bravery, kindness, and perseverance. It is a sign that invites you to guide others with gentleness as well as a warning to not use brute force and ultimatums in order to achieve your end.

When reversed Strength, represent a bad relationship with authority. If you feel powerless or discouraged this card reminds you that you’re more powerful than you think. Pull yourself together and be brave. 

Cleo: The High Priestess (II)

The High Priestess is a card that represents a mysterious and intuitive character, whose power comes from the depth of her subconscious. she is sophisticated, calculating, and powerful.

When upright, this card is a call for observation and reflection, you may not see your situation of friendship or relationship for what it is. So take advantage of the solitude to think over this difficult situation because looks can be deceiving.

When reversed, this card represents a lack of clarity, causing confusion and insecurity. In order to find confidence in you again, you must bring forth determination and assurance. Know that you have the necessary strength to pull through the chaos and emerge victorious.

Etho: The Hermit (IX)

This card generally means retreat, solitude, and the act of spending time alone in order to think on yourself.

When upright, this card calls for solitude, if you’ve been swept up by life The Hermit is a clear sign that you need to slow down a little. Take time to think of your actual situation and what you wanna do with it. You’ll get out of the small break fully replenished and ready to take on the world.

When reversed, The Hermit warns you of the consequences of staying isolated for too long. Allow yourself a bit of time to understand your mistakes and to swallow a big events in your life, but first and foremost look towards the future.

Gem: The Hangman (XII)

The card of The Hangman shows the possibility of seeing things from another angle, accept unexpected delays and to give into a situation.

When upright, this card shows that you are confronted by an unexpected obstacle that stops your projects. The Hangman advices you to relax and follow the current. It’s time to take a break and think. This could end up being exactly what you need in order to achieve a useful, new point of view.

When reversed, this card indicates hesitation, servitude and tactics to gain time. If you have a decision to make, do not waste time procrastinating.  Stay focused and act fast before you lose an opportunity.

Impulse: The Hierophant (V)

This card represents hierarchy, law, order and cooperation.

When upright, The Hierophant warns you that this is not the moment to have radical ideas or to rebel. Trust the approved methods of all traditions, there is a time and a place for individualism, nonconformity and rebellion. This card shows that the respective conventions will lead you farther than following your own path.

When reversed, the card encourage you to adopt a revolutionary spirit and put into question the status quo. It’s time to think for yourself, to follow your heart and to make your own path.

Joel: The Magician (I)

The Magician represents pure talent and unlimited creativity.

When upright, this card explains that inspiration is everywhere. You feel creative, unstoppable, and ready to realize your craziest dreams. Accept the creative pulsions  that are in you because it’s time to shine ! Take this chance ! This card indicates that it’s time to explore your potential and put to use your hidden powers.

When reversed, The Magician wants you to resist the villainous shortcuts, as well as the suspicions double edged deals that will go against you. Work hard, stay focused in order to achieve your goals and leave your friends out of this.

Lizzie: The Tower (XVI)

The Tower represents the sudden and dramatic destruction of illusion and façades.

When upright, prepare yourself for a upheaval because this card announces destruction. Even of what you think might be true and threatens to submerge you. But rest assured because it’s for the best,this event will free you from your tower. Embrace the chaos and you’ll get out unscathed.

When reversed, this card indicates that you are resisting a necessary change. You’re facing an important truth that may change the course of your life, but you refuse to recognize it. It’s time to abandon the comfortable and familiar points of your life because new information will be presented and change everything. Even if this type of change can be intimidating, rest assured and go forward. You’ll be happier and in better shape.

Mumbo: Temperance (XIV)

Temperance signifies fluidity, harmony and balance.

When upright, Temperance advises you to stay flexible, calm and adaptable. Following the current will help you sail comfortably. Take on every challenge that presents itself with calm and serenity. Temperance reminds you how important it is to preserve your inner peace, do not let outside influence rock your boat.

When reversed, Temperance indicates imbalance in your life that affects you greatly. The card warns you to not let yourself be carried away and to not act impulsively. Stay calm, think carefully, and communicate openly to bring back harmony and fluidity in your life.

Rendog: The Emperor (IV)

The Emperor is a calm and powerful ruler that impose respect and authority.

When upright, The Emperor reminds you, to make decisions with everyone’s interest in mind. You can set an example by being respectful and taking your duties seriously.

When reversed, this card warns against too much rigidity in your opinions, and incite you to keep an open mind. The reversed Emperor shows that thinking in black-and-white works against you. Stay flexible and remind yourself that there’s an exception to every rule. 

Scar: The Chariot (VII)

The Chariot represents determination , unwavering focus and will.

When uprights, you no longer fear obstacles, you’ll follow your objectives, and nothing will stop you. Do not let yourself be distracted ! What you wish for may seem out of your reach for the moment, but by pressing on you’ll find the strength necessary to succeed.

When reversed, this card tells you to not falter as victory can still be reached as long as you’re ready to adapt. The reversed Chariot, advises you to tackle challenges with more finesse and flexibility. Letting go will not hurt you. 

Skizz: The Wheel of Fortune (X)

The Wheel of Fortune represents decisive moments, sudden reversals and twists of fate.

When uprights The Wheel of Fortune, reminds you that life is unpredictable and that luck keeps turning. It’s a clear sign, that you need to expect the unexpected. Embrace your life as it is now because big changes are coming. The Wheel of Fortune remind you that life can change at any second. Live in the moment.

When reversed, The Wheel of Fortune indicates that your streak of bad luck is not your fault, greater forces are at play. You may feel as if you don’t control anything but this card has a positive side. Nothing is eternal not even misfortune. Curses can be broken, birthrights restored and kingdoms can prosper again. Be patient, and wait for the wheel of fortune to turn again in your favor.

Tango: Justice (XI)

Justice represents repercussions, consequences ethics, and equity.

When upright, Justice advices you to follow your moral compass, while brushing aside your personal feelings on the matter. It’s a clear sign that the time must come to defend truth and integrity. The choice may be difficult, but it will lead to long-term peace and stability.

When reversed, Justice suggest that your actual perspective may be false. Justice suggest that you may not be seeing situations for what they really are. Try to keep an open mind and ask your loved ones to help you see the truth.

I hope you guys enjoyed this draft, this took so long. I’m not a 100% sure for some of the life smpers but I think it should be fine.

Hope you enjoyed this post, I know I’m gonna enjoy my Friday afternoon.

See you all !

[noblehcart]

“Are you happy here?”

@lordofthestrix

"There are many things to be happy about." Fingers delicately smoothed out the sheaths of paper on her father's desk- her desk- that then followed the sharp line of the edge. The empress gathering her thoughts in a moment of pause as the politically correct response hung in the air. The painstaking unthreading and resewing that was her vocabulary on display as the girl inside wept silently in the presence of the one man who bore her heart.

"I am happy for my Masha's engagement to cousin Dickie." Maria deserved happiness- she was always the sweetest of them all and Louis was absolutely besotted with her. Crystal blue eyes followed the line her fingers traced across the desk edge as she continued on evenly.

"I am happy for Mama and Papa's travels across Greece. They've always adored the coastline and travel by sea." They had lost an empire and found freedom instead. Her father's vivid descriptions and mother's relaxed letters spoke volumes on their health in the sea air in contrast to the atmosphere in Petrograd. Her nails bloomed a soft pink as she moved to grip her armchair, pressure to raise herself up to stand and glance towards a bookshelf, careful to avoid looking at him. Anywhere but him.

"I am happy for Tati finding her place in society with our English cousins and that she's been so regimented in her letters...that Nastya has managed to find herself a spotlight in the theater in England. She even finds the time to visit on occasion." The curtains are drawn, tied neatly back with gold colored tassel and rope, allowing sunlight to stream through and reflect the shimmer on her hand. And her heart sinks. Fingers curl into a fist at her side as she moves to the window to overlook the courtyard where staff and soldiers amble and go about their daily schedule.

"I am happy for the avoidance of revolution. For the stability and the peace."

There were many things to be happy for, but she couldn't bring herself to answer his question outright. It was easier to state facts. Truths she could admit to rather than pretty lies he'd see through. She couldn't break his heart like that even though she knew he could clearly hear hers as the engagement ring shrieked loudly between them. Leaders had duties. Empresses had responsibilities. Her country required reassurance, stability and most importantly unity.

The parties needed representation on the throne and it was only a matter of time before she'd be forced into it in the most ugly means. It was still ugly. It would always be ugly, cold and cruel. Everything her family now had were things she had been stripped of. Love. Freedom. Travel. Acceptance. Passions. All that sat on her shoulders now were the cape and crown of royalty that hid the shackles she hadn't realized came with it....even if she had known however she would've made the same choice for her family. She could've borne the weight of the crown, the imprisonment, the isolation if she could've followed the suit of England's Elisabeth. If she could've found a way to keep him. Just him.

"I have many things to be happy for, Tristan." But I am not happy.

[growwithmeastrology]

The most pivotal astrological transit is happening this week! Ready or not, it’s coming. Be sure to check out parts 1 and 2 of this series before continuing so you’re not missing key dates. So what can we expect once Pluto enters Aquarius? Since it will be toggling between Capricorn and Aquarius between now and November 2024, we can expect a review or repeat of the things in our society that need restructure. Pluto forces transformation. It is the Phoenix rising from the ashes. It will not be controlled and old systems will crumble. Since Aquarius is a collective sign, we should see more cohesiveness and integration as a community. Communities will begin to band together to fight injustices. Aquarius does have a shadow side and that could bring about more isolation, much like the recent pandemic where Saturn was in Aquarius. When we put all these things together and review what happened in history, it looks a whole lot like revolution. Aquarius is also forcing out more advancement of the technological age. The perfect example of what’s to come that’s already taking shape of that theme is the TikTok ban. Don’t be fooled into believing what you hear about this. Do the research, it’s not what it seems. And that’s the point. Pluto will have us digging deep to bring things to the surface. What needs to be exposed, will be. Here’s the thing though, try not to let things get to your head. The shadow side of Pluto will have many in their ego fighting for selfish power and control. Working as a community is the lesson here. Both Saturn in Pisces and Pluto in Aquarius are about unity. Not to mention highly spiritual having us looking more within for our salvation than without. It’s a 20 year transit this time. The frequency of the planet is changing. Will you rise with it? Let’s embrace the change, allow the cards to fall and let’s rebuild a better new world! ☮️💚✨ #plutoinaquarius #plutoretrograde #ageofaquarius #astrology #ridethewave #communityfirst https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp-XSwwrT5J/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[unity-game-blogs]

Thinking of Making a Game? Here’s Why Unity Is Your Best Bet

Introduction

Diving into game development is an exhilarating journey, but the first major hurdle is selecting the right engine. With countless options out there, Unity consistently rises above the rest. Whether you're an aspiring Unity game developer or an established studio, this engine offers the perfect mix of power, flexibility, and ease of use. But what makes it the ideal choice? Why should you put your faith in Unity? Let’s break it down.

1. The Cross-Platform Powerhouse

Unity isn’t just a game engine, it's a gateway to a vast gaming universe. Supporting more than 25 platforms, from Windows and macOS to PlayStation, Xbox, and AR/VR devices, Unity allows developers to build once and launch across multiple platforms. The ability to scale effortlessly from mobile to high-end consoles isn’t just convenient, it's game-changing. This is why many Unity game development companies trust Unity for multi-platform releases.

2. Beginner-Friendly, Expert-Approved

Simplicity and power rarely coexist, but Unity bridges the gap beautifully. New developers can ease in with an intuitive interface, a treasure trove of documentation, and endless video tutorials. But don’t be fooled beneath its approachable surface lies a robust system packed with advanced tools for industry veterans. Whether crafting a simple 2D puzzle or a sprawling open-world 3D adventure, Unity flexes to meet your needs, making it a preferred choice for any Unity game company looking to innovate.

3. A Community That Has Your Back

In game development, isolation is the enemy. Thankfully, Unity boasts one of the largest and most supportive communities in the industry. Stuck on a problem? Someone’s already solved it. Need assets? The Unity Asset Store is stocked with models, animations, scripts, and tools that accelerate development. The collective wisdom of millions of Unity game developers means that solutions are always within reach.

4. Graphics That Wow At Any Level

From indie charm to AAA polish, Unity’s rendering power is undeniable. Choose between the Universal Render Pipeline (URP) for optimized performance and the High Definition Render Pipeline (HDRP) for jaw-dropping visuals. Want cinematic-quality lighting, realistic shadows, or breathtaking reflections? Unity makes it happen, no matter your experience level.

5. 2D, 3D, AR, and VR Unity Masters It All

Unlike some engines that pigeonhole developers into a single genre or style, Unity excels across the board. Need crisp 2D sprite animations? Covered. High-fidelity 3D landscapes? Done. Augmented and virtual reality? Unity is a leader in AR and VR development, seamlessly integrating with Oculus, HoloLens, and other cutting-edge platforms. No matter where gaming goes, Unity game development companies are already leveraging its versatility.

6. C# The Perfect Balance of Power and Simplicity

Game engines live and die by their scripting languages. Unity’s choice? C# a language celebrated for being both beginner-friendly and immensely powerful. Unlike the steeper learning curve of C++, C# offers an accessible yet versatile coding experience. Its well-documented API ensures a smooth learning process for those stepping into programming, while seasoned developers can leverage its full potential for complex mechanics.

7. Cost-Effective Without Compromise

The barrier to entry? Practically non-existent. Unity Personal is free yes, free for developers earning under $100,000 annually. This means anyone, from solo indie devs to small studios, can bring their ideas to life without upfront costs. As revenue grows, Unity offers premium plans that scale with your needs. The result? A low-risk, high-reward development environment.

8. Always Evolving, Always Improving

Technology never stands still, and neither does Unity. With frequent updates, feature rollouts, and optimizations, Unity remains at the forefront of game development. Collaborations with giants like Microsoft, Google, and NVIDIA ensure ongoing enhancements, keeping Unity in sync with the latest gaming trends and hardware advancements.

9. Monetization and Analytics Built Right In

Creating a game is one thing, making money from it is another. Unity simplifies monetization through Unity Ads and Unity IAP (In-App Purchases), making it easy to generate revenue from ads or in-game transactions. Want insights into how players interact with your game? Unity Analytics offers deep data tracking to help refine user experiences and maximize engagement.

10. A Legacy of Success

Some of the world’s most beloved games were built on Unity. Think Monument Valley, Among Us, Hollow Knight, and Ori and the Blind Forest. These aren’t just indie hits, they're proof that Unity scales with ambition. Whether crafting a small passion project or aiming for global recognition, Unity game companies consistently push boundaries using this powerful engine.

The Verdict - Unity Reigns Supreme

If game development is your dream, Unity is your best bet. Its unparalleled cross-platform support, intuitive workflow, powerful rendering engine, and thriving community make it the ultimate tool for developers of all levels. Whether you're an independent Unity game developer or part of a major unity game development company, the possibilities are endless.

With Unity, you don’t just make games, you create experiences that reach players around the world.

The only question left - What will you build?

[pluginnoise]

The 9 Best Clipper Plugins for Musicians in 2025

Clipping is one of those tools you can’t avoid in music production as it’s crucial for loudness, punch, and keeping your mix controlled. 

But using the wrong clipper can completely wreck your track, introducing harsh distortion or flattening your dynamics. 

That’s why it’s so important to find the right plugin for your workflow. Whether you’re working on drums, bass, or mastering, here’s a look at some of the greatest limiters today, offering precision, tone, and versatility.

1. Softube Clipper

Softube Clipper is an incredibly versatile plugin, ideal for both mixing and mastering. It features dual-stage clipping modes (RMS and Peak), giving you control over how it responds to your signal.

The soft-knee feature is my favorite, smoothing out the clipping effect and making it feel natural and musical.

If you want a bit more character, the analog color mode adds depth and warmth without introducing pumping or artifacts. Whether you need to tame transients on drums or boost the loudness of a full mix, this plugin handles it with ease.

2. Yum Audio Crispy Clip

Crispy Clip is perfect if you like precision and flexibility. The Shape slider allows you to switch between soft and hard clipping styles, making it versatile for both subtle and aggressive effects.

The dual-band crossover control is a standout feature cause it lets you isolate and process specific frequencies, like tightening up a bassline without affecting the mids or highs. 

The waveform display gives real-time visual feedback, so you always know what’s happening to your signal. Plus, its Analog/Digital view modes add even more customization to fit your workflow.

3. Schwabe Digital Gold Clip

Gold Clip, designed by Grammy-nominated engineer Ryan Schwabe, is a mastering essential. It combines 3 tools with Clipper, Gold, and Alchemy, to give you a broad range of sonic textures.

The Alchemy knob is a genius addition. It reduces the high-frequency buildup that often occurs during clipping, keeping your sound clean and balanced. 

With low-pass filters and a Unity Gain function, you can achieve loudness without compromising clarity. I always turn to this plugin for mastering when I need precision and control.

4. Signum Audio SKYE Clipper

SKYE Clipper is one of the most versatile options out there, featuring 7 distinct clipping styles and anti-aliasing algorithms to keep your audio pristine.

What makes this plugin special is the intuitive interface, particularly the scalable history view, which makes fine-tuning adjustments easy. 

It’s perfect for subtle peak control, adding saturation, or boosting loudness. With Dolby Atmos support, it’s also a fantastic choice for immersive audio projects.

5. Kazrog KClip 3

Kazrog KClip 3 is the ultimate all-rounder, offering 8 unique clipping modes (like tape, tube, and germanium) for tonal variety. 

It also features multiband processing and up to 32x oversampling, ensuring your sound remains clean and dynamic.

The transient control is a game-changer—it smooths out peaks without killing the punch of your track. The real-time visualizer makes it easy to see exactly what’s happening to your signal. 

Whether I’m mastering or working on individual tracks, KClip 3 delivers every time.

Each of these plugins has its unique strengths, whether it’s surgical precision, analog warmth, or dynamic control. Whether you’re clipping individual instruments, buses, or entire mixes, these tools offer everything you need for modern production.Here is the link to the full article to see the rest of the plugins!

Read the full article here!

[01worldwideblogs]

Exploring Parivrai: Everything You Need to Know About This Unique Concept

In today’s fast-paced digital world, unique and intriguing ideas continuously emerge, grabbing our attention and reshaping how we interact with technology, culture, and society. One such concept gaining momentum and curiosity is “Parivrai.” But what exactly is Parivrai, and why is it sparking interest across various fields? In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Parivrai unique, its potential applications, and why it’s worth understanding.

What is Parivrai?

Parivrai is a concept rooted in the idea of interconnectedness and growth, bridging traditional practices with innovative perspectives. Although still somewhat abstract, Parivrai can be described as a framework that emphasizes dynamic interconnectivity, promoting harmonious relationships between various elements—be it within a system, an organization, or even on a global scale.

While “Parivrai” may appear to be a buzzword at first glance, it has deeper connotations. At its core, Parivrai represents the fusion of diverse principles, where ancient wisdom meets modern-day adaptability. It reflects an adaptive, flexible approach to tackling modern challenges and transforming opportunities into sustainable solutions. The key principle of Parivrai is to ensure balance and synergy between interconnected parts, ensuring a more resilient and holistic approach to problem-solving.

Origins and Background of Parivrai

The origins of Parivrai are somewhat elusive, though it draws from several ancient philosophies that emphasize unity, mindfulness, and balance. Parivrai’s foundations can be traced back to practices that promote collective well-being over individual gain, highlighting the idea that true progress is achieved when all parts of a system work harmoniously together.

As the concept gained traction, it evolved to incorporate modern practices from technology, management, and environmental sciences. Now, Parivrai embodies a hybrid approach that combines the best of both traditional wisdom and innovative solutions. This blend allows it to remain relevant across multiple sectors, including technology, business, health, and environmental sciences.

Core Principles of Parivrai

To understand Parivrai, it’s essential to look at its core principles, which guide its applications and offer insight into how it can transform practices:

Interconnectivity: Parivrai places a high emphasis on understanding the interconnectedness of various elements within a system. It recognizes that isolated actions can have far-reaching impacts and that sustainable progress is only achievable when all parts work together seamlessly.

Adaptability and Flexibility: A significant aspect of Parivrai is its adaptable nature. This principle allows the concept to evolve with changing circumstances, making it suitable for tackling contemporary challenges that require creative and flexible approaches.

Sustainability and Balance: Unlike short-term approaches that prioritize quick fixes, Parivrai focuses on long-term sustainability. The concept encourages solutions that not only address immediate needs but also contribute to a balanced and resilient system over time.

Collaboration and Inclusivity: Parivrai promotes a collaborative mindset, fostering inclusivity and cooperation among diverse stakeholders. This principle is especially relevant in today’s interconnected world, where diverse perspectives lead to more innovative and holistic solutions.

Mindfulness and Awareness: At its core, Parivrai values a mindful approach, where actions are taken with awareness and consideration for their impacts on the broader environment.

Applications of Parivrai

Given its flexible and dynamic nature, Parivrai can be applied across a variety of fields. Here are some notable areas where Parivrai is making a difference:

Business and Management: In the business world, Parivrai is reshaping management strategies by encouraging companies to adopt sustainable and balanced approaches. By focusing on collaborative growth, companies that adopt Parivrai principles are better equipped to foster an inclusive workplace culture and develop resilient, long-term strategies.

Technology and Innovation: Parivrai encourages tech developers to consider the social and environmental impacts of their innovations. By integrating Parivrai principles, technology can be designed to support societal goals, minimize environmental harm, and promote inclusivity.

Environmental Conservation: Parivrai's emphasis on sustainability makes it especially relevant in environmental fields. Its principles encourage balanced resource use and support conservation efforts by promoting mindful, interconnected approaches to ecosystem management.

Healthcare and Wellness: In healthcare, Parivrai principles advocate for a holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, and social well-being. This approach not only focuses on curing diseases but also on enhancing overall health by considering the complex interconnections within the human body and between individuals and their environments.

Education and Personal Development: Parivrai is increasingly being integrated into educational settings, where its principles are used to foster collaborative and critical thinking skills. By encouraging students to appreciate interconnectivity and adaptability, Parivrai is helping to shape a generation that values holistic problem-solving.

Why Parivrai Matters Today

In a world that is becoming increasingly complex and interconnected, the need for frameworks like Parivrai has never been more crucial. Many of today’s challenges, from climate change to social inequality, require solutions that are both adaptable and sustainable. Parivrai provides a roadmap for addressing these issues by promoting mindful and collaborative approaches.

Additionally, as technology continues to evolve, the principles of Parivrai remind us to prioritize ethical considerations and long-term impacts. The concept encourages us to remain grounded and connected to the world around us, fostering a culture of balance and responsibility.

Embracing Parivrai: How to Get Started

For those interested in adopting Parivrai principles, here are some practical steps to begin integrating them into your personal or professional life:

Cultivate Awareness: Take time to consider the broader impact of your actions, whether in the workplace or your personal life.

Foster Collaboration: Seek opportunities to work with others, especially those with diverse perspectives. Collaboration often leads to innovative solutions.

Prioritize Sustainability: Strive to make choices that contribute to long-term benefits rather than short-term gains.

Stay Adaptable: Embrace change and remain open to new approaches, as flexibility is key to the Parivrai mindset.

Conclusion

Parivrai is more than just a concept; it’s a mindset and a philosophy that encourages a balanced, mindful approach to life’s challenges. By embracing interconnectedness, adaptability, and sustainability, Parivrai offers a framework for creating positive, lasting impacts in a rapidly changing world. Whether in business, technology, or personal growth, Parivrai’s principles provide a path toward a more harmonious and resilient future.

[enchantedquill-40]

Part two

Despite Sawyer's hesitant participation in group activities and his occasional assistance when needed, trust remained an elusive concept for him. His actions were a blend of self-preservation and a guarded acknowledgment of the group's shared struggle for survival.

Jack and Charlie, sensing Sawyer's ongoing struggle with trust, made concerted efforts to bridge the gap. Jack would occasionally sit beside Sawyer by the campfire, engaging in small talk about the challenges they faced on the island. Charlie, persistently determined to break through Sawyer's walls, would share anecdotes and attempt to include him in the camaraderie that was slowly rebuilding within the group.

Yet, Sawyer remained a solitary figure, his guard unwavering. The scars, both physical and emotional, were not easily forgotten. Every attempt at connection felt like a precarious dance around the edges of his well-guarded world.

One day, as the group worked together to fortify their shelter, Sawyer found himself silently assisting in the background. The physical labor seemed to serve as a common ground, a language that transcended words. However, when the work was done, Sawyer retreated to the outskirts, avoiding the communal celebration that followed.

Jack, observing Sawyer's persistent isolation, decided to have a more direct conversation. "Sawyer, we're all in this together. Your past doesn't have to define your present. We need you, not just for the work but as part of the group."

Sawyer, his eyes reflecting a complex mix of defiance and vulnerability, sighed. "Doc, I'm just looking out for myself. Trusting folks has a way of biting you in the back."

Jack, undeterred by Sawyer's resistance, continued to extend the olive branch. "Survival is about more than just enduring the elements. It's about finding strength in each other. You don't have to carry the burden alone."

Charlie, equally determined, approached Sawyer with a genuine smile. "We've all got our demons, Sawyer. But we're trying to build something here. You can be a part of it if you let us in."

Sawyer, torn between the allure of connection and the safety of solitude, nodded in reluctant acknowledgment. The conversation planted seeds of change, but the roots of trust were slow to grow.

Days turned into weeks, and Sawyer's gradual integration into the group remained a delicate dance. The others respected his need for space, but their persistent efforts to include him spoke volumes about their genuine desire for unity.

One evening, as the campfire flickered and laughter echoed through the camp, Sawyer found himself drawn to the warmth of shared stories. He hesitated at the periphery, a silent observer of the bonds forming among the survivors. Jack and Charlie, noticing his presence, welcomed him with a nod.

Sawyer, though still cautious, took a tentative step forward. The night unfolded with shared tales of life before the crash, dreams of home, and the complexities of relationships. Sawyer's guarded demeanor softened, if only for a moment, as he allowed himself to be a part of the shared narrative.

The island, once a battleground of judgment and isolation, now bore witness to a fragile unity. Sawyer's journey towards trust was far from complete, but the small steps he took hinted at the resilience of the human spirit. In the midst of the unpredictable wilderness, bonds forged through patience and understanding began to redefine the dynamics of the group.

[network0]

Building Stronger Bonds: Exploring the Power of Social and Community Participation

Welcome to our blog! Today, we're diving into the power of social and community participation; finding ways to build stronger bonds with others has never been more critical in a disconnected world. Whether through joining local organizations, volunteering your time, or engaging in meaningful conversations with neighbors and friends, participating in your community can profoundly impact you and those around you. So, let's explore the many benefits of social and community participation and discover how to get involved in your neighborhood. Get ready to make some connections that will last a lifetime!

The Importance of Social and Community Participation

Social and community participation is vital in creating a strong and vibrant society. By actively engaging with others in our communities, we foster a sense of belonging and connection essential for personal well-being.

One fundamental importance of social participation is its opportunity for meaningful interactions. When we engage with others, whether through volunteering or participating in community events, we create opportunities to connect on a deeper level. These connections can lead to new friendships, support networks, and professional collaborations.

Another benefit of social participation is its positive impact on mental health. Engaging in social activities helps combat feelings of loneliness and isolation by providing outlets for social interaction. It boosts self-esteem, reduces stress levels, and enhances overall happiness.

Furthermore, participating in one's community allows us to contribute to the greater good. By getting involved locally through volunteer work or community initiatives, we have the power to make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us.

In addition to personal benefits, social engagement also strengthens societal bonds. When individuals come together towards common community goals - environmental conservation or neighborhood safety - they create more robust networks that promote unity and cooperation.

Embracing social and community participation enriches our lives and enhances the fabric of our society as a whole. So why wait? Start exploring ways you can get involved today!

How to Get Involved in Your Community

Are you looking to make a difference in your community? Getting involved is easier than you might think! Here are some practical ways to start making a positive impact:

1. Volunteer: Find local organizations or charities that align with your interests and skills. Whether helping at a homeless shelter, tutoring students, or cleaning up parks, there are countless opportunities to lend a hand.

2. Attend Community Events: Stay informed about events in your area, such as festivals, fundraisers, and town hall meetings. These gatherings provide an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and learn more about the needs of your community.

3. Join Clubs or Groups: Seek out clubs or groups that share your hobbies or passions. This could be anything from book clubs and sports teams to environmental initiatives or neighborhood watch programs. Participating in these activities not only helps strengthen bonds within the community but also allows you to pursue personal interests.

4. Support Local Businesses: Choose locally-owned businesses whenever possible instead of big chains or franchises. By doing so, you're supporting the local economy and contributing directly to the success of small business owners.

Remember, getting involved can be manageable! Start with small steps and gradually increase your level of participation over time. Together, we can build stronger communities for everyone!

The Benefits of Community Participation

The benefits of social and community participation are vast and impactful. By actively engaging in our communities, we strengthen the bonds between individuals and contribute to society's overall well-being.

Participating in social and community activities gives us a sense of belonging, connection, and purpose. It allows us to build meaningful relationships, expand our networks, and foster a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Through volunteering or joining community organizations, we can make a difference, whether by helping those in need or advocating for positive change.

Moreover, community participation offers numerous personal growth opportunities. It enables us to develop new skills and knowledge through various workshops or events organized within our communities. We can gain valuable experiences that enhance our resumes while boosting self-confidence and self-esteem.

Additionally, being an active participant in our communities positively impacts mental health. Engaging with others reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation while promoting emotional well-being. By sharing common interests or goals with like-minded individuals through clubs or interest groups, we create a support system that contributes to improved mental resilience.

Furthermore, participating in communal activities cultivates empathy and understanding towards diverse perspectives. Interacting with people from different backgrounds fosters tolerance and compassion while breaking down barriers between individuals or groups who may otherwise remain segregated. This promotes inclusivity within society as a whole.

Last but certainly not least, social engagement has physical health benefits, too! Participating in group exercises such as sports teams or fitness classes encourages regular physical activity, which is crucial for maintaining good health. And let's not forget that laughter shared during social interactions releases endorphins, which boost mood!

Social and Community Participation brings people together, strengthening bonds among individuals, contributing positively towards society & having numerous personal advantages! So why wait? Get involved today & experience the power of building stronger connections within your community!

[aiukrainesummaries]

Overview of Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth by Ian Garner (2023)

• The book provides an in-depth look at Russia's fascist and neo-Nazi youth movements, known collectively as the Z Generation.

• Garner investigates the rise of groups like Russian March, White Rex and the neo-Nazi Russian National Unity organization. He estimates there are as many as 100,000 Z Generation members.

• The book explores the ideologies of the Z Generation, which promotes ethnic Russian nationalism, xenophobia, violent opposition to immigration and often openly embraces Nazism. Many members glorify fascist symbols and Nazis.

• Garner examines the backgrounds and motivations of individual Z Generation members through interviews and firsthand reporting. He finds many come from broken homes, suffer from social isolation and feel marginalized in post-Soviet Russia.

• The book argues that the Z Generation has been enabled by a lack of opposition from Russian authorities. In fact, some fascist groups receive indirect support from government-linked sponsors.

• Garner looks at how social media and online platforms have helped the Z Generation organize, spread propaganda and recruit new members. The movement has proved savvy at using modern technologies.

• In conclusion, the book warns that Russia's fascist youth pose a serious threat given their growing numbers, violent tendencies and potential links to security forces. Garner calls for more effective policies to challenge the Z Generation's dangerous ideologies.

• The book's title refers to the Z Generation members' fascination with the swastika symbol, which resembles the Latin letter Z. The swastika has become an emblem of their ideology.

Hope this summary provides a useful overview of key arguments and themes from Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Tell me more.

Here are some additional details from Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth by Ian Garner:

• The book details specific acts of violence and hate crimes carried out by Z Generation members, including racist attacks, beatings, stabbings and even murders. However, Garner argues the movement poses a wider threat through its extremist ideology.

• Interviews with Z Generation members reveal that in addition to xenophobia and ethnic nationalism, many also embrace conservative social values and oppose LGBTQ rights, feminism and liberalism more broadly. They idealize a traditionalist Russian society.

• Garner examines links between some Z Generation groups and Russian security forces, arguing indirect support from official figures has allowed the movement to flourish. However, the relationship is a complex mix of cooperation, tolerance and opportunism on both sides.

• The book exposes propaganda and disinformation spread by the Z Generation online, including myths about ethnic Russians facing existential threats from immigration, foreign influence and marginalization in their own country.

• In summary, Garner aims to shed light on Russia's long-neglected fascist youth movement while also advocating for policies to confront and counter the extremism it represents. The book argues Russian authorities and society as a whole must do more to marginalize and delegitimize the Z Generation's racist ideologies.

• However, some critics argue the book overstates the threat posed by the Z Generation and fails to acknowledge efforts already being taken to combat extremism in Russia. Nonetheless, most reviews still praise Garner for bringing important awareness to the disturbing rise of far-right ideology among Russian youth.

Additional details:

• The book details the Z Generation's glorification of the Soviet and Russian imperial eras, which members portray as ethnically pure periods in Russian history unsullied by foreign influence. However, Garner argues this narrative is distorted.

• Garner examines how the spread of global far-right ideologies online has energized and amplified Russia's fascist youth movement. The Z Generation frequently shares content and networks with international extremist groups.

• The Z Generation's influence extends beyond street activism and violence, according to the book. Some members have formed political parties that compete in elections, aiming to radicalize Russian mainstream conservatism from within the system.

• Interviews with parents of Z Generation members reveal stories of teenage kids being gradually radicalized online through exposure to Fascist propaganda. However, Garner notes that not all parents disagree with their children's extremist views.

• In addition to traditional Nazi symbolism, the Z Generation has created new symbols and imagery that merges Russian nationalism with fascism. This unique aesthetics aims to market extremism to younger audiences.

• Despite extensive documentation of the threat, Garner acknowledges there are also signs of weakness within the Z Generation. The movement suffers from infighting, short-lived grassroots initiatives and a lack of coherent long-term strategy.

• In summary, Garner's book aims to serve as a wake-up call for Russian society to confront the far-right radicalization of the country's youth head on, by marginalizing extremist ideologies and providing alternative visions of Russian identity that are inclusive rather open xenophobic.

Criticism:

• Some critics argue the book overstates the strength and cohesion of Russia's far-right youth movement. They claim the Z Generation is actually fragmented and lacks influence rather than posing a serious threat as the book suggests.

• There are claims the book exaggerates the numbers of Z Generation members for dramatic effect. Some reviewers believe fascist youth are a tiny, marginal group in Russian society, not the 100,000 estimated by Garner.

• The book has been criticized for drawing overly broad conclusions about the Z Generation based on a limited number of interviews. Critics argue Garner's portrayal of the movement's ideology and motivations may not be representative.

• Critics argue Garner fails to acknowledge efforts already being undertaken in Russia to confront extremism, such as government programs to promote tolerance and combat radicalization. They say the book overstates official inaction.

• However, other reviewers counter that even a relatively small fascist movement can pose problems if allowed to operate with impunity. They praise Garner for drawing attention to a disturbing but underreported phenomenon in Russian society.

• In summary, while some critics accuse Garner of exaggerating the threat from Russia's far-right youth, others value his reporting for shedding light on a worrying trend and advocating for stronger responses. There are reasonable disagreements about how influential and cohesive the Z Generation really is based on the evidence Garner presents.

[daceystvrk]

anya spoke of pride, of the strength of standing alone. dacey was no stranger to self-imposed isolation, in shouldering her worries alone, but that was where the similarity stopped. her own reasons were quieter, less fierce. she bore things alone not because she believed it made her stronger, but because she feared the weight of her burdens on those she might share them with. there was no sense of northern honour, no streak of independence that she might take comfort in. it was simply easier to swallow the heaviness in silence rather than risk becoming another stone around someone else's neck. were anya chose to hold it like a shield of defiance, dacey's solitude was a habit she had worn for so long it was second nature.

and still now, dacey did not share what was on her mind, instead choosing to continue to speak of anya with a soft smile on her face. "i've often found that to be the case. people can be cruel, i won't deny that, but your own mind is often crueller." others could light the flame, but it was insecurity that often fanned it to an inferno. away from the comforts of home, those feelings were amplied tenfold. "we forget that we see every flaw in ourselves too easily. we can't ignore the cracks that exist within us, and so we expect others to see them just as clearly." her gaze softened when she looked at anya, understanding the weight of admitting such thoughts aloud. "the north was never supposed to be endured alone, i think. we have always been strongest when we stand together. my company is yours to take whenever you have need of it."

and yet as she spoke of unity, it did not escape dacey's thoughts that the north was a court that was growing more and more divided. it felt like she was standing on a frozen river, watching hairline fractures appear in the ice beneath her feet but powerless to move before they cracked below her. the true north cast a growing shadow, but it was another discomfort she held close to her chest, not daring to voice aloud. especially not here, where the image of seeming steadfast mattered so much more.

"embarrass us?" a small frown appeared on dacey's face, and she shook her head. "oh, no, no. i don't think that has been on... well, anybody's mind." but as she thought about the other women, the way it seemed to come so naturally to them what even dacey wore uncomfortably, she could not deny that she couldn't see the root of anya's worries. "the king, my family, we all know who you are, anya. if we had fear of that, i am sure owen would have had no qualms about asking you to remain at winterfell." her teeth came down to chew at her lip, considering what she was about to say next. "but i understand it. the fear of it, i mean. if there is anything i can do to help you, i will." she had never been one to allow someone to face the world alone. she would not start now.

Anya listened intently, letting Dacey's words settle over her. They carried a quiet wisdom that reminded her of why she admired the Stark princess so. Though the paths they walked were different, there was a shared understanding between them, a recognition of the burdens that came with forging their places in the world. Dacey’s observation struck a chord. People never really see you how you see yourself. It was a truth Anya had long grappled with, given her origins, given how she had grown up. The raven-haired woman thought that sometimes she saw more worth in herself than others did, and sometimes it was the other way around. It was a strange sort of cycle in which she moved.

“I suppose that’s true,” she agreed with a nod, a faint smile touching her lips. “Perhaps it’s for the best, in some ways. We can be harder on ourselves than anyone else could ever be”. Perhaps the worst kind of thoughts about her, were the ones she'd conjured herself. Anya’s dark eyes searched Dacey’s face, noticing the princess’s quiet strength, the subtle resilience in her words. And then there was an offer in the princess' words, something that felt like she was extending friendship. “For so long I thought there was pride, there was strength, in standing alone,” Anya admitted. “But I don't always want to be strong... I don't always wish to stand alone”. It felt like both immense weakness and great strength to confess such a thing. “I’m grateful for your company, for your understanding. It’s… rarer than I’d like to admit”.

The judgment could come from the West or from any other place, Anya knew. The princess was right once more, in saying that there could always be something to judge. The Yuan lady knew it was impossible to bend and shape herself in every way that would please others. She'd not done it a day in her life, and it was maddening that as a lady, she was no considering such outside opinions. She shrugged then, the gesture half-defiant, half-resigned. “Well, let them think what they will, I suppose,” she murmured.

“I do still have to learn how to be a better lady, though,” she added with a little chuckle despite herself. “I would hate to embarrass the king and your family because I've not been raised like others have”. Anya's tone was less doubtful, however, more light-hearted in the knowledge that there was still more for her to learn, and having the humility to admit it.

[casually-crooked]

Credit to @cosmoglass for making the post that first pointed this out, but I want to show in more detail why Lupin the 3rd: Castle of Cagliostro and ICO for the PS2 are aesthetically connected, with the latter likely being inspired by the former. This post won't contain direct spoilers for either source material. But a lot of images will be used, so if you prioritize coming into both of these masterworks blind, and with fresh eyes, wait until you've seen them for yourself.

[ID: Image 1: A full shot of the Count's Castle from Lupin the 3rd: Castle of Cagliostro. /end ID] [ID: Images 2 & 3: The Queen's Castle from ICO, both close and wide shots. /end ID]

Here we can see the castles side by side. You won't notice many architectural similarities beyond perhaps the arch bridges. But both rest upon a body of water, closed off from the mainland. Both castles were made to be isolated and difficult to reach. Speaking of difficulties, you'll notice in ICO that the bridge to the mainland appears to be missing. A more accurate statement is that it is retracted. Later in the game, a stone bridge will extend itself out of a slot to reach the mainland, much like another part of the Count's Castle, which connects to an isolated tower.

[ID: Image 4: The Count's Castle, focus on the isolated tower and a section of castle extending out to connect with it. /end ID]

There's also an elevator on the outside of both castles' walls, and while they vary drastically in style, this specific wall-ascending outdoor elevator is pretty unique in concept.

[ID: Image 5: The Count's Castle, a ridge in the outside of the tower allows a boxed elevator to ride up and down. The elevator itself is octagonal in shape and fancifully decorated. /end ID] [ID: Image 6: The Queen's Castle, a ridge in the outside of the tower allows a platform elevator to ride up and down. The player must manually turn a large crank to ascend and descend. There is no roof, and only a fence protects the riders from falling off. /end ID]

Both castles also feature a windmill that overlooks a small area of greenery.

[ID: Images 7 & 8: The Count's Castle, a small four winged windmill of old construction overlooks a small walkway with lush bushes dotting the view. It faces out towards the water. Images taken from both front and back of the windmill. /end ID] {Note: The following images are not of ICO, but rather an accurate recreation of the Windmill area created in Unity by funkyboy. They had the best angles to demonstrate my point.}

[ID: Images 9 & 10: The Queen's Castle, an eight winged windmill overlooks a small pond surrounded by vibrant green grass. It faces out towards the water. Images taken from the left and right sides of the windmill. /end ID]

One can find a few more similarities inside the castle walls. Particularly in the aqueduct leading towards the Count's castle. The underground waterworks are filled with huge gears and intense streams of water. A similar locale is seen in the final stretch of ICO, where the gears and mills are used as a platforming challenge.

[ID: Image 11: Lupin, in diving gear, fights against the current of a waterfall that spills out over a underground passageway of brick construction. Large interconnected gears encompass the background. /end ID] [ID: Image 12: A promotional poster featuring Ico, small in the frame, looking up towards streams of water raging down over a cliff face, the streams land into mills and gears that turn.]

Both pieces of media also feature a stone bench. Though ICO's benches are more prominent and used as Save Points throughout The Queen's Castle.

[ID: Image 13: A sun sets on an old marble pavilion with a stone bench, slightly coated in crumpled autumn leaves. The seat is split into three sections of the stone. Very detailed art style. /end ID] [ID Image 14: Ico and Yorda rest on a stone bench, split into two sections of stone. It glows with runes when Yorda is near it. /end ID]

But it's not just the castle that has aesthetic similarities, the characters themselves have some commonalities. Clarisse, from Cagliostro, has a resemblance to Yorda. And while Lupin, as her rescuer, doesn't resemble the 12 year old Ico, he does end up with a head injury that requires bandages around his head, later in the film. Ico is always seen with bandages across his head throughout his game.

[ID: Image 15: Lupin holding Clarisse's hand as he guides her back through the aqueduct area, filled with turning gears. Clarisse wears an all-white dress and has a colorful shade of brown hair. Lupin wears a green jacket over a black shirt and yellow necktie. He has white bandages wrapped tightly around his black hair. /end ID] [ID: Image 16: Ico helping Yorda up by the hand after she has fallen. Yorda wears a white dress with brown and grey patterns around the neck and shoulders. Her hair is mostly gray with very faded traces of brown. Ico wears an orange tunic and a poncho with an elusive ancient pattern on it. Around his black hair are white bandages, from which horns sprout. /end ID]

There are also two moments in the Lupin film where Lupin helps Clarisse across a small gap, but I only have a clear screenshot of this instance.

[ID: Image 17: Lupin helps Clarisse cross a short, watery gap between two platforms that they stand on. He extends his hand to grab hers on the other side, intending to pull her towards him as she jumps. /end ID]

Helping Yorda across gaps is such a staple of ICO's gameplay, it's hard to think of the game without thinking of this image.

[ID: Image 18: Ico reaches out his hand to Yorda on the other side of a fairly long distance gap between their two platforms. She is at the edge of hers, preparing to jump towards him, the intent being that she will grab onto his outstretched hand. /end ID]

And if the main characters aren't visually similar enough, how about the common enemies? In The Castle of Cagliostro, there are a group of assassins shrouded in black cloth, and equipped with metallic claws that make them appear monstrous. Their eyes glow an unnatural yellow and they often walk with hunched postures.

[ID: Images 19 & 20: First, a depiction of the aforementioned assassins, piled together in a doorway, glaring towards their targets in the dead of night with yellow glints for eyes. The second image is a close up of one of their hands, which resembles a gauntlet from a set of armor, but with sharp, long pointed ends on each digit and sharpened knuckles. /end ID]

Compare with the common enemies from ICO, which are actual manifestations of shadow. They appear bestial and often hunched over as they approach, claws and wings are common in their design elements, and they bare glowing blue eyes.

[ID: Images 21 & 22: Close-ups of two Shadow Creatures. The first has grabbed Yorda, and lifted her onto one shoulder with slender appendages that end in long points. It's face glows with a bright blue light that emanates from its eyes. The second Shadow Creature stares at Yorda with the same blue eyes, it's back covered in ethereal feathers, it's long arms cascading down to the ground, also ending in points.]

The pictures don't capture the movement of these characters but I assure you they both walk with an unnerving energy that feel very similar to each other.

The Castle of Cagliostro came out in 1979 when Fumito Ueda was 9 years old. In all likelihood, he and the people that made up Team Ico at that time, had watched the movie several times as they grew up. Considering also, the fact that ICO lacked most of these resemblances in earlier stages of development, I think it's possible that Ueda and/or the team rewatched the film mid-development and decided to wear the inspiration on their sleeve. Regardless of how this Lupin the 3rd movie sneaked some of its aesthetics into a classic PS2 title like ICO, I think they are undoubtedly connected by a link of artistic inspiration. Hayao Miyazaki's directorial debut inspired Fumito Ueda as he created his first game.

[bliztank-blog]

Blog #1- The good and harm that online communities can do.

The increasing influence that online interactions have had on our lives has drastically increased in recent times, especially during covid. Every single community allows for so many individuals that would never interact; to meet, grow together, and collaborate on common ideals and goals. The positive impact that these communities can have on a person can not be overstated; especially for younger and more influencable persons. Despite all of the good a community can do, it is natural that it will begin to fade and struggle with time. Members and leaders will burn out and move on; and human beings inevitably end up looking for differences to wield against eachother. Regardless of the state of individual communities, it is logical to conclude that the online world is only going to grow with time.

It is a tragedy then, that often these communities and the online world as a whole are treated without the respect they deserve, being left to wither away as social divisions grow. It is not inherently unfair to treat such communities as a side venture to simply allocate spare attention to. Yet if a community as a whole is treated this way, there is little unity left to preserve the health of the community.

I strongly prefer to not delve into specifics out of respect; however to capture the significance of these issues, I will bring up one. Paedophelia I think, is something that no good natured person will be inclined to defend nor try to normalize. As an example from the TF2 community, Nursey; a top level player and mentor to many was banned from community leagues due to being a paedophile. Despite the measures taken to drive them out of the community, they still have many friends that will continue to rationalize their actions and defend them. "They're not a paedophile, they would never do something like that, they never meant to hurt anyone"; are common examples of emotional responses on the matter.

The issue to be found here, is that one of the most morally reprehensible behaviors possible, is easily defended in individual communities. Nobody wants to be the person to turn their back on their friends, and few people would want to make themselves a target by deviating from what the group consensus is. This becomes an issue when the very people that are supposed to be role models, that define the values of a community; are not held accountable for these behaviors.

If an issue as objectively clear as this is unable to be resolved, then I would ask what hope a community has of resolving any situations that involves the slightest bit of nuance or moral flexibility. It's important to ask yourself then, what other situations happen that just completely get defended because it's easier to be a part of a collective; than to stand as an individual and risk isolation from a community. If the very people in a community are unable to hold other parts of that community accountable, then eventually you will let others get hurt.

This same exact issue happens time and time again, and yet the issue is only one issue of many that a community may end up facing; and this is not an isolated incident. None of this is anything you'd want to have yourself or a friend go through or be the victim of, I'd imagine. Yet what can the individual do, when the perpetrators of a crime are the very ones defining what is and isn't normal and right? If you begin to understand this notion, you may see why it's important to never let issues get to this point in a community, to never let these behaviors get remotely to the point of normality; for everyone is the victim when action against these behaviors is purely reactionary and disciplinarian in nature. When a group attempts to punish another group, it devolves into a tribalistic affair where people just stick to existing biases. Thus, the only answer, is to step outside of social groups, to be a person, and to confront what you see.

With the emotional stakes conveyed, I refocusing to what I am trying to convey.

The next logical step, is to define the abstraction of unity and the impact it has. In my eyes, a community's unity is defined by the willingness of individuals to collaborate on goals, at it's simplest form working together to resolve issues. If a community lacks unity, then levels of interaction naturally drop off, and members begin to drift apart. Unity is the best defense a community can have against a never-ending list of potential issues.

Past this point, I'm going to shift the tone a bit and focus on gaming communities. These communities tend to have their own subsection of issues, and predisposition to hostilities that come from a lack of more intricate and personal connections. The TF2 community is what I am most familiar with, so I will be using it for reference.

The less dedicated any parts of the community are to attempting to solve issues together, the weaker a community is. The natural conclusion of this is that more issues will begin to seep through; and cracks begin to widen, which eventually sink the ship so to speak.

An example of this would be the harassment of others being written off as competitive banter, or matters regarding slurs and other wider cultural issues that seep into our view of what's acceptable.

A large majority of the time, these issues will only build up as time goes on, and eventually will require a solution lest they dominate a community's identity.

The only way a community can continue to preserve itself in spite of such issues, is to reunite all of the scattered fragments of it's members by ignoring social divisions, and to come together to find a solution that accommodates everyone in the community; that still tries to care for the community.

If these conditions are not met, and problems are not resolved through cooperation; the community becomes a shell of it's former self. In this shell, something that used to have a positive impact on other people either fades into obscurity; or becomes a method in which they are hurt by anyone who would seek to abuse existing fragmentation. When you drive others to become outcasts, there will be people who use that fact to their own advantage.

If groups of individuals that seek to do good do not group together and stand for something, eventually groups of people that seek to do harm will be the predominant voices that determine how a community is seen, and what a community does. This is an unfortunate truth, but the patterns do not lie. Eventually, the best and only thing you can do is to stand for something as a person, and to inspire others to stand with you.

There comes a point, where if you stand for something alone or stand for nothing; that you become very susceptible to being driven out of a community. This can be seen throughout many communities in the form of past administrators and community leaders. Even if you are just a normal member, there will be people that will seek to discredit you due to your identity if they disagree with it. Eventually, a social issue is going to have to be confronted, and you need to make sure that the values you uphold aren't going to get shoved away with you.

Looping back to online communities as a whole:

If your communities do not have to deal with these issues, be thankful for what you have, while you have it. I'd suspect that more often than not, your community is going to be struggling with some form of larger issue; be it directly based around conflict or not. Peace of mind is a nice thing to have, but all too often the core of these issues are entrenched in unawareness. Everything seems all peachy and acceptable, until you or your friends have to deal with the impact of an issue.

For this reason, it is always imperative to remain cautious, and to keep protecting others where you can. On a foundational level, a community is based off of the people that reside in it, and the interactions between said people. The less care you put into those interactions, the less of a community you have. The threats posed to any community are perpetual; yet so is the positive impact a community has on others as long as there are people left to hold that banner high.

In the words of Captain Kirk from Star Trek, "If change is inevitable, predictable, beneficial, doesn't logic demand that you be a part of it?" By the same logic, if risk is inevitable, which it is; then why not find things which matter to you, worth risking for?

So then, take a stand for what you care about, and don't let it drift away to the sands of time. Communities inevitably have expiration dates, yet you as a person have the power to create a legacy that others can remember and look to. In doing this, you are able to effect others that you would potentially never be able to connect with otherwise. A community thrives together, and a community withers together all the same. Every single member of a community plays a part in the fate of a community; yet you may be the only person that understands or sees a key factor that others don't yet. By understanding this, you can understand the importance of yourself.

And always remember, that an unspoken status quo regardless of topic or severity results in much stagnation and decline; and will continue to do so until confronted. Only afterwards, can social wounds begin to heal; otherwise they continue to fester and constrict.

If you are not convinced of the inevitability of change currently, I will be diving into the impact people individually have in future posts.

[astaroth1357]

Leviathan's Odyssey 9 (End):

Isolation

*Lucifer is in the Student Council room collecting paperwork when he hears his phone go off… It seems like Barbatos is messaging him yet again... For the third time this week. Though he dreads whatever news it brings, Lucifer checks his messenger and lets out a long sigh when he gets his confirmation*

*Levi was sent home early… again. He hasn’t been present for a full day of classes in nearly a week and Barbatos is beginning to get on Lucifer’s case about it… Diavolo placed a lot of trust in the eldest to bring his brother under control, but it hasn’t exactly been very successful and his butler sees no problem with applying the pressure in his lord’s stead. Though he wouldn’t call this latest message a threat of expulsion, he can sense they’re getting dangerously close…* 

*normally, Lucifer would wait for the day to finish himself before returning to the House and giving Levi a lecture, but that approach hasn’t been faring well… Though he loathes to be absent, who knows what trouble his brothers could get in, he sends his response to Barbs and goes to collect his things. He has been thinking up a few solutions to the “Leviathan Problem” and it’s about time he started enacting some, but first he needs to do some shopping*

*it isn’t hard for Lucifer to find what he was looking for in the shopping district and he makes it back to the House about an hour before classes would officially end. He already knows where Levi would be, he’s been nothing is not predictable since he first came home with them... In many ways, he still has the mindset of a combat survivalist. He quickly grew territorial of the room they gave him, he tries to grab as much food as possible at meals, and every new person or situation is treated with hostile skepticism... Their brother may be home, but he certainly isn’t “back." Not yet anyway...*

*when Lucifer ascends the steps to go to Leviathan’s room, he tries knocking on the door first. Levi had taken to making ridiculous entry passwords again, an encouraging sign, but that was mostly because Lucifer forbade him from issuing trial by combat to newcomers… Unfortunately, today there wasn’t any voice on the other side… Lifting the lock on the door is child’s play with just a little magic, so after giving his brother ample time to say something, Lucifer opens the door himself*

Lucifer: Leviathan? *he pokes his head in with a bit of caution, Levi could still be quick to lash out if caught off guard*

*Lucifer’s eyes scan the dimly lit room, with only the soft blue glow of the water tank behind a glass wall offering him any light. They discovered quickly that Levi’s skin would dry out at an alarming rate without some access to water. Their first fix was to give his room a bathtub that he could soak in, but due to its narrow size Lucifer eventually had an aquarium installed for him instead. He could climb in and out from a gap near the ceiling and it had more room for him to move around freely. That seemed to resolve the issue, but Levi still remained fond enough of the bathtub to keep it around*

*he half expected to find his brother in said tub, back to the doorway and trying to ignore him, but instead he sees a black figure curled up at the bottom of the water tank. He recognizes Levi, even in his newest form - or at least the form that they taught to him once he was on dry land. While in the ocean, Levi never needed to be rid of his gills or scales, they were practical for swimming but not so much for daily life. His new form kept his tail, horns, and patch of scales here and there, but it mostly allows him to pass as an average demon. He can maintain an even milder appearance without any of the extras, but he doesn’t seem to like it as much… He always complains of feeling “too small” without his tail*

*Lucifer steps into the room and closes the door behind him. Under all of that water, Levi probably didn’t hear him knock… Or maybe he did and didn’t feel like answering. He found it hard to pinpoint just what his brother could or couldn’t do anymore… When he gets into the room, he sets a white grocery bag he had been carrying on a nearby table. He’ll have to bring up its contents at the right time… He needs to speak to Levi first.* 

*Lucifer goes to the glass wall and gently knocks his knuckles against it. The black bundle in the water stirs and Lucifer watches as Levi's tail slowly begins to unravel from his body... Soon enough, he’s looking his brother in the face but he doesn’t look very happy to see him… He rarely looks happy to see anyone frankly…*

*Lucifer points up to the edge of the tank and gestures to his ear, signaling that they need to talk. He’s almost surprised at how easily Levi obliges this time, pushing off of the aquarium floor and swimming up until he’s above the surface. After taking a gulp of air, he leans over the edge of the glass - seemingly unbothered by the droplets of water that cascade to the floor.*

Levi: What do you want, Lucifer?

*Lucifer tries his best to look stern, but not overly angry. Though Levi is far less dangerous inland than he was by the ocean’s shore, he’s no less irritable... If this conversation is going to happen, he’s going to need to keep his composure for a while longer*

Lucifer: Barbatos informed me of what happened today… 

Levi: And?

Lucifer: Annnd, we’ve already been over this, Levi… You can’t keep stabbing your fellow students with forks. 

Levi: If you gave me my trident back, then I wouldn’t need to use them.

*Lucifer groans a bit and fights the urge to rub the bridge of his nose… Of course he’s in a mood again…*

Lucifer: Don’t play games with me, Levi… You know what the real problem is here.

Levi: Yeah, it’s the stupid school! I hate going there...

Lucifer: Levi, Lord Diavolo was very gracious to offer you a place in his academy and a seat on the student council, no less. And being one of his military officers now also puts you in a position of great importance... Your actions reflect on him and his kingdom as whole-

Levi: I know all that already, I heard you the first time! *Levi leans his chin against the edge of the glass, but still doesn’t look any happier. To his credit, he has been trying to yell at his brothers less... So it’s not too surprising to hear his voice suddenly drop down to solemn whisper*

Levi: … You know what everybody calls me there? The “Fish Freak...” They say I smell like a beached whale… *Lucifer blinks at the revelation, because this is news to him*

Lucifer: Is that so…?

Levi: Everyday. And you know what else? They trip me in the hallway or throw my things in the fountain. Somebody even left a dead squid on my desk! *a familiar look comes into his eyes now, one burning of hatred - but this time not directed at brothers...*

Levi: They’re lucky I only have forks right now...

*a part of Lucifer wants to be fine with Levi sticking up for himself… The Demon World is a cruel and harsh place where intimidation is often the best answer. He and his brothers had to learn that the hard way… But Diavolo’s goals are peace and unity - the academy was even founded with that in mind… His students should be shying away from such barbaric tactics and the council has an example to set… As much as it pains him to say it, Levi’s actions are unacceptable…*

Lucifer: Tell me the students’ names and I’ll have them punished. I guarantee you that... *takes a deep breath to prepare for what he must say next…*

Lucifer: … But you can’t keep causing trouble like this, Leviathan. Lord Diavolo has a strict code of-

*Lucifer watches as Levi groans and lifts his head off the glass, though this time he looks more frustrated than enraged*

Levi: There you go again! Diavolo this and Diavolo that!! Don’t you ever think of anything else??

Lucifer: That’s Lord Diavolo to you, and of course I do. But this isn’t the Celestial Realm anymore, Levi, and we need to adapt to his rules. *Levi’s eyes narrow at him, seeing an opportunity to dig in the knife…*

Levi: There’s adapting and then there’s ass-kissing... Which are you doing, Lucifer?

*and like that, for just a moment, Lucifer wants to abandon the whole project. He wants to leave Levi to wallow in his tank and go back to more important matters... He wants to throw his gifts into the garbage and just forget he ever bought them! His anger must have been plain to see, because Levi looks almost regretful for a second as he pushes back from the glass*

Levi: … Yeah. I didn’t think so.

*with that, Lucifer watches his brother sink back underwater and return to the floor of his aquarium. He honestly has half a mind to just turn and walk away, at least until he sees Levi curl up on his side against the store bought sand. He draws legs into the fetal position and faces his back the glass wall, letting his tail once again curl around his body as he goes back to laying in the water… alone…*

*the lonely image is enough to bring Lucifer back to some sense… Had he really forgotten why he was there so easy? With a steadier mind, he gently places a gloved hand against the surface of the glass, watching Levi from behind the wall between them…*

*his brother fell from Heaven then had to survive on his own… when he came back, he not only found out that his family had been living like royalty, but they hadn’t even been out looking for him in a long time… Now he’s been ripped from the home he’d grown accustomed to and thrust into a culture he barely understood…*

*Was it any wonder he was struggling? Was it any better for him in the Devildom than it was beneath the sea? Would it have been better to just let him stay where he was comfortable…? These thoughts have plagued Lucifer for some time, but he wouldn’t dare break up his family now…* 

*Maybe... Hopefully… Levi just needs an outlet to help him cope...*

*Lucifer knocks on the glass a second time, but it’s not an angry pounding or anything. Levi must not have expected that, because he actually looks back at him in mild surprise. Lucifer signals once more for him to get out of the water before stepping aside to grab the grocery bag from before. Intrigued, but cautious, Levi swims back up to the surface and pulls himself up to the edge*

Levi: … What’s that?

Lucifer: Something I bought for you. *Lucifer picks up the bag and goes back to the tank. Levi’s eyes widen slightly with shock*

Levi: You bought something… for me?? Why?

Lucifer: It’s something that I think you’ll like… I’m told it’s very entertaining and hopefully it has all the… violence that you’ve grown accustomed to... 

*he digs into the bag and pulls out two things, a DVD box-set of something called “My Life as a Demonic Pirate Defeating the Seven Lords of Hell” and a paperback book with a cute looking mermaid on the cover under the same title*

Lucifer: Levi. Have you ever heard of something called anime?

Parts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9