#this course will boost your decision-making and creativity.

[zeynepom3r]

Unlock Your Creativity: Creative Problem-Solving Course

Struggling with traditional problem-solving methods? This Creative Problem Solving course teaches innovative techniques to help you approach challenges with fresh perspectives. Whether for business or personal obstacles, this course will boost your decision-making and creativity.

What you’ll learn:

Creative thinking and problem-solving methods.

How to combine critical thinking with creativity for better solutions.

Build a trust-based environment for team collaboration.

Check out the course here: Creative Problem Solving

What’s the most creative solution you’ve come up with recently? Let’s share!

#CreativeProblemSolving #Innovation #CriticalThinking #CreativeThinking #ProblemSolvingSkills #DecisionMaking #TeamCollaboration #LeadershipSkills #CreativeSolutions #PersonalGrowth #BusinessStrategy #InnovationAtWork #OutOfTheBoxThinking #SkillDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth

[a-d-nox]

how can you glow up: your 10h - your public persona

here's the next hypothesis of how you can glow up using your venus persona. take a close look at your 10h!

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

enjoy my work? help me continue creating by tipping on ko-fi or paypal. your support keeps the magic alive!

10h aries (1°, 13°, 25°), 10h mars, and/or 10h ruler aspecting mars

define career goals

take initiative: initiate new projects, push forward in your career, and take bold steps toward achieving your professional goals.

action-oriented success: you’ll find that you can make progress quickly in your career when you’re proactive. use this momentum to advance in your field, whether through promotions, new opportunities, or recognition.

ambitious and goal-driven: you're determined to climb the career ladder. set clear goals, take calculated risks, and push yourself toward success.

build a reputation

project confidence: present yourself confidently in professional settings. whether it’s presenting ideas, networking, and/or taking charge in meetings, you’ll naturally draw attention.

leadership: mars gives you the courage to step into roles of authority and make decisions that others will follow. you can be a natural leader and motivate others with your energy.

embrace competition: you thrive in competitive environments and are motivated to prove your abilities. use this to your advantage in your career.

balance ambition

action toward legacy: you have the stamina and passion to work toward building something that lasts.

decisive moves: you’re likely to make bold, yet calculated decisions. trust your instincts and act decisively.

10h gemini (3°, 15°, 27°), 10h mercury, and/or 10h ruler aspecting mercury

define career goals

embrace variety: gemini thrives in roles that allow you to wear multiple hats. consider careers in media, education, marketing, writing, public relations, or technology - fields where communication and adaptability are key.

stay flexible: your career path doesn’t have to be linear. give yourself permission to explore different fields, projects, and/or interests. it's never too late learn new things... that being said...

lifelong learning: invest in expanding your knowledge and skill set. take courses, read, and stay curious about emerging trends in your field.

build a reputation

showcase your intelligence: this energy shines when you’re seen as knowledgeable and quick-witted. share insights, teach others, or present new ideas in your industry.

refine communication skills: whether it’s public speaking, writing, or networking, invest in becoming a proficient communicator.

embrace social media: use platforms to share your thoughts, connect with others, or even build a personal brand. a podcast, blog, or youtube channel could work especially well for you.

balance ambition

prioritize focus: curiosity can sometimes lead to scattered energy. use time management tools like task lists or productivity apps to stay organized.

practice mindfulness: with a mind always racing with ideas, grounding techniques like meditation or journaling can help you avoid burnout.

embrace breaks: allow yourself to step away and recharge when needed - you thrive on change, so even brief shifts in environment can boost your energy.

10h cancer (4°, 16°, 28°), 10h moon, and/or 10h ruler aspecting moon

define career goals

follow your emotional compass: think of roles where you can nurture, protect, and/or support others (ex: caregiving, teaching, counseling, creative fields, or advocacy).

create a safe space: aim for a work environment where you feel emotionally secure and valued.

build a reputation

lead with love: show your nurturing side in your professional relationships. be known for your reliability, emotional intelligence, and willingness to support others.

authenticity matters: lean into your vulnerability and emotional depth as strengths.

be approachable: this energy makes you relatable and warm. cultivate trust by being a good listener and showing understanding.

balance ambition

avoid over-nurturing: don’t let yourself become overly focused on caring for others at the expense of your own goals. set boundaries and prioritize your ambitions.

emotional resilience: this energy can be sensitive to public criticism. build inner confidence by focusing on your strengths and maintaining perspective.

work-life balance: your emotional health directly affects your productivity. create routines that allow for rest, family time, and self-care.

10h aquarius (12°, 24°), 10h uranus, and/or 10h ruler aspecting uranus

define career goals

innovate and rebel: you might find fulfillment in careers that are unconventional or ahead of their your. this could mean embracing technology, alternative industries, or positions that challenge the status quo.

pioneering spirit: you may be drawn to pioneering projects or cutting-edge fields where innovation is key. don’t be afraid to pursue new technologies, digital spaces, or progressive causes in your career.

reinvent yourself professionally: embrace reinvention and the possibility of sudden changes in your professional life.

build a reputation

align with your unique self: your public image and career should reflect your true, individual nature. don’t conform to societal expectations if they don’t align with your true desires.

challenge conventional norms: trust this impulse, as it can lead to innovative achievements and greater personal satisfaction.

create a unique professional identity: you may stand out from the crowd, and that’s a strength. cultivate a professional identity that is distinctly yours, and don’t be afraid to express your individuality through your work or public image.

balance ambition

career shifts: your career path may be marked by sudden changes, disruptions, or unexpected opportunities. while this may feel unsettling at times, these shifts often lead to growth and progress. learn to embrace the unexpected.

flexibility is key: rigidity is not your friend. be open to change, and stay flexible with your professional goals. opportunities might appear suddenly, so adaptability is crucial.

breakthrough moments: you may experience moments of sudden insight or a flash of inspiration that leads to breakthroughs in your career. trust your intuition and be ready to act when these moments arise.

10h nn and/or 10h ruler aspecting nn

define career goals

embrace your public role: build a meaningful career or life purpose that contributes to society. this may feel uncomfortable at first, but growth happens outside your comfort zone.

take responsibility: own your actions and decisions. success with this placement comes from being reliable, consistent, and committed to your goals.

have big ambitions: you’re meant to focus on long-term goals and create a legacy. dream big and work toward achievements that will stand the test of time.

build a reputation

get comfortable being seen: step out of the shadows - start sharing your voice and talents with the world.

develop a professional image: polish your public presence by curating your personal brand, whether that’s through social media, professional profiles, and/or networking.

own your achievements: never downplaying your successes - learn to celebrate them and share them confidently.

balance ambition

master time management: 10h requires discipline and structure to achieve your goals. use tools like planners, calendars, or apps to stay on track.

consistency is key: show up for your goals every day - over time, your efforts will compound into success.

learn from mentors: seek guidance from people who’ve already achieved what you’re aiming for. their insights can help you stay focused.

10h part of fortune and/or 10h ruler aspecting part of fortune

define career goals

find a career that brings joy: your greatest happiness comes from pursuing meaningful career goals or becoming recognized for your work.

define your mission: reflect on what kind of career feels truly aligned with your values and passions. you’re happiest when your work is purposeful and impactful.

be ambitious: the 10h rewards you for aiming high and committing to goals that will leave a lasting impression.

build a reputation

public recognition: your sense of fulfillment comes from being respected and acknowledged for your contributions. cultivate a professional image that reflects your authenticity, dedication, and skill.

leave a legacy: think long-term - how do you want to be remembered? focus on building something meaningful that reflects your talents and effort.

balance ambition

step into leadership: this placement often points to natural leadership abilities. don’t shy away from roles where you take charge, make decisions, or guide others.

be a role model: others may naturally look up to you for inspiration. lead with integrity, and you’ll find success comes easily.

learn from mentors: surround yourself with accomplished individuals who can guide you toward your goals and help you refine your ambitions.

10h ruler in the 5h

define career goals

infuse creativity into your career: with this placement, you thrive in fields that allow for artistic or creative expression, such as art, music, writing, fashion, theater, and/or design. even in non-creative industries, you’ll want to find ways to bring originality and fun into your work.

pursue your passion: you’ll feel most fulfilled in a career that aligns with your personal interests or hobbies. think about what lights you up and explore ways to turn that into a profession.

entertainment and performance: you may have natural talents in areas like acting, performing, and/or public speaking. if these fields interest you, don’t hesitate to put yourself out there.

build a reputation

leadership through fun: you’re well-suited to leadership roles where you can inspire others with your enthusiasm.

encourage creativity in others: you may excel as a mentor, teacher, or leader in fields like education, creative coaching, and/or team-building where you can bring out the best in others.

stand out publicly: your career may involve being in the spotlight or receiving recognition for your individuality and creativity.

balance ambition

work that doesn’t feel like work: you’re driven to create a professional life that feels enjoyable and fulfilling. you’re not someone who thrives in overly rigid or monotonous work environments.

create a balance between fun and productivity: while it’s important to find joy in your career, be mindful not to lose focus on long-term goals. blend fun with discipline for sustained success.

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© a-d-nox 2025 all rights reserved

[riizetarot]

on riize's comeback + more on seunghan's return

how are riize feeling about their next comeback?

for the most part, they're ready for their next comeback. they're working hard on it (knight of pentacles) and are putting teamwork at the forefront (three of pentacles) in light of any disagreements while preparing for it (five of wands). i get the sense they're feeling stable, united, and grounded right now.

how is the company feeling about riize's next comeback?

with the two of pentacles between the three of wands and the ten of swords, i think the company is yet again at a crossroads and are trying to juggle different expectations. on one hand, they may be feeling good about the comeback and believe that it will help riize grow even more (three of wands). on the other hand, they seem to be afraid of loss. there's apprehension here for failure or major disappointment (ten of swords).

many tarot readers have talked about a powerful woman making the final decision or having a heavy involvement. there are two women i can think of: choi jung min (sm's inside director, head of sm's global business center, and head of sm's international support center) and hee jun yoon (director of the artist development center at sm). do they have this much influence?

the knight of cups is a "yes" card, as well as a card that represents diplomacy, tact, and good news. the high priestess, nine of wands, and six of swords came out after i asked for more insight. as far as i can tell, these two women are in positions of high power and influence, and they are seemingly for the group rather than against them. this would depend on their perspectives on the situation of course, but it seems they're not making any flippant decisions. the high priestess is about intuition and wisdom. the nine of wands is about resilience and knowing hard work will pay off in the end. lastly, the six of swords may indicate they're putting past conflicts behind and willingly stepping into the unknown.

is sm taking legal action quietly? will they take legal action before seunghan returns, or will they do it when he returns?

all these swords... yes (ace of swords), they're taking legal action behind the scenes. hard to believe it myself, but it's moving along, and apparently they're not pulling any punches. no (four of swords), we most likely won't know that they're taking action before seunghan returns. however, we might come to know about it when he returns (knight of swords).

if seunghan returns to riize, what will the fandom atmosphere be like?

for the ten of pentacles, i really like the description from this tarot's booklet: the ten of pentacles indicates an accomplishment or a completion of a project. it has secured a foundation that will sustain you in your future. you are also in a position to share this security with your loved ones. you are overflowing with abundance and it is flowing into the lives around you, allowing them to shine with you. the tower coming out for this question is no surprise. there will be change and chaos, as we would expect. but this is a good thing. an upheaval of the fandom presents the opportunity to rebuild it into one that is stronger, kinder, and united. the emperor coming out after the tower is confirmation. whatever happens, the fandom will be stable in the end.

will there be public boycotts in front of him and the other members? will he receive more love than hate?

yes, it's likely there will be public boycotts in front of them, but they'll have each other as well as fans to lean on and gain strength from (six of cups). yes, he'll receive more love than hate. it will help him embody the energy of the queen of wands, boosting his confidence, creativity, and passion.

[valaryswrites]

🪐 where tony baddingham wants you back.

warnings: (requests are open btw) pure fiction, no gender specified, dirty talking and english is not my first language. tony himself is a warning, tho. but again, pure fiction. scroll if you don’t like it. (requests are open btw)

You used to work with him some years ago.

No, not with him. For him.

You were his favorite screenwriter. His golden star. The only person he trusted enough to take some big, important decisions.

Then, you left. Left the country, and left him. There was a different project located on the other side of the world that you wanted to be a part of. And you were.

Tony let you go, knowing that sooner or later you’d be back.

“I’ll make you the highest-paid person in Corinium.” He said, trying to convince you.

“You know it’s not about money, Tony.” You told him firmly, crossing your arms over your chest and hoping he could understand. “You were insatiable. I’m afraid I won’t have enough creative freedom if I work here again.”

But Toby Baddingham hated the word “no”. He liked to think that everything in the world could belong to him.

“Come on, darling.” The man sighed, standing up from his fancy chair and approaching you. Not so close, though. “I can guarantee you all the freedom you want.” He promised. “We used to be a good team, you and I.”

You frowned, but there was a little smirk making its presence in your face. A team… a team? You used to fuck. Work during the day, fuck during the night. It was a routine.

“We weren’t a team, Tony.” You told him. “We were lovers.”

“Well, you used to make me come and I used to make you come.” He shrugged, both his hands in his pockets. “Doesn’t that make us a good team?”

You sighed again, and Tony knew he had to push further.

“Your potencial is wasted without me.” He assured you.

That wasn’t true; and Baddingham knew it as well. Your potencial was not wasted without him.

But hell, he did help. The money, the demands, the defiance. He did make you work better. Write better.

“You have hired plenty of new writers, I see.” You said, pointing to the empty desks outside his office. “Why you insist? Is it because I was the best you ever had?” That chuckling you let out after that last question made his blood boil.

“Of course I have to insist.” He firmly told you. “I know your potencial better than anyone else. I want you here again. To increase the rating and to remember the good old times.”

“To remember what, exactly?” You asked, aware of the answer.

“You know exactly what I mean, dear.” He took a step closer to you. “The late nights in this office, the discussions over your insane ideas, the mind-blowing sex we had…”

Ah, there he was. The Tony Baddingham you knew.

“It wasn’t that good to me.” You lied.

God, it was. It really was.

“You always seemed very satisfied.” He chuckled. Another step.

The way he was closing the distance between you and him was almost magnetic. You wondered if he was doing it on purpose or if it was a reflex. It used to be like that, during the the good old times. Magnets.

“Did you find another affair while I was away?” You asked. No shame.

“I’ve had other women.” He admitted. “None of them as good as you, of course.” Oh, that boosted your ego. “As eager and talented. I would have you writing wonders for me in the morning and riding me like an animal at night. It’s difficult to find an equivalent.”

You rolled your eyes, but that grin on your face was present. So, so present. He missed it.

“I miss your body. That bloody look on your face wanting to wreck me...” Tony exhaled, as if he was remembering the sight. “But I miss that beautiful, clever brain of yours too. And I want it back.”

Ugh, he was convincing you. You wanted the job. You needed it. And deep down you knew your writing was at its highest success when you were there.

“Highest salary.” You demanded, while your index finger pointed directly at his chest, almost touching it. “And you won’t turn down any of my ideas without trying them first.”

“And if I don’t like them?” Baddingham asked.

“You’ll give them a fair try either way.” Another demand. “Or I’m out. When did I ever do something you didn’t like, though?”

Not a good question.

“Well, I didn’t like when you left Corinium, and left the country, for starters.” He chuckled. “And left me, of course.” He said, in case you’ve forgotten. As if you could! “I would get into this office very morning and deal with some imbecile people, and then end up here, all alone, with no one to eat out over my desk.” The man teased. Another step closer. “I would sit on that chair, look at my empty desk and think of you kneeling under it…” He continued.

The bastard was making you picture all those things.

No.

No things; but memories. They were real once, during the good old days.

He was so close to you now that his hand traveled to the nape of your neck, and then back to your jaw, caressing you.

“Your pretty mouth, taking such good care of me…” he whispered, his thumb brushing over your lower lip, and then sliding it barely into your mouth just to touch the tip of your tongue.

So you bit his finger.

Tony hissed, but that smirk on his face betrayed any type of irritation he might be feeling.

“Give me the damn contract.” You said, brows furrowed.

“Ah, that’s my girl!” Baddingham smiled widely for the first time in days. He handed you a stack of paper. “I’ll leave you alone so you can sign it.”

“I’m going to read it first.” You said, threatening him.

“Ah, you’ll be fine with it.” He assured you. “You start next week. 11AM to 6PM.”

“Everyone here leaves at 5PM.” You protested.

“Yes. But not you.” He giggled, about to leave the office. “You’ll work for an extra hour.”

“And you’ll pay me that extra hour.” You said, no question.

“Yes.” He nodded. “But just not with cash.” Tony Baddingham winked and left.

And you signed.

[seafoamreadings]

week of october 27th, 2024

these are written predominantly for the *rising* signs but they are also intuitively "channeled" enough that they should work for any dominant energy you have! (try your sun if you don't know rising, or more advanced readers can try moon, anywhere you have a stellium, etc and see what works best for you!)

aries: new moons in scorpio may sometimes be good times to take out loans or lend money if needed, but this time around not so much. your ruling planet in a sextile with pluto and at a critical degree makes things very tense and emotional, and although the overall effect of this state is likely beneficial, lending can end up feeling like more of a battle than is good for you.

taurus: avoid such dangerously jarring phrases as "we need to talk" but... you're going to have things to say, especially in the first half of the week. it may be wise to organize your thoughts and motivations first, and then actually get to the bottom of things after mercury has moved into sagittarius. but be prepared for the truth! it may not always be what you were hoping to hear (although it can also go better than expected, of course.)

gemini: any deep changes you may want to implement into your daily life via habits and routines can get a great boost from this week's new moon. meanwhile any relationship talks you've been postponing will fare nicely after mercury is into sagittarius, provided you are willing to be very honest and face the candid truth from others.

cancerians: for optimal auspiciousness, use this week's new moon to have fun, whatever form that takes for you. a new hobby, an early night, a chat with friends, or making some art would all be good ideas now.

leo: if you don't use this week, especially after mercury moves into sagittarius, for creativity, you'll be missing out. start at home - making and maintaining a sanctuary keeps your mind fertile and generative. then start moving your thoughts onto paper, or a screen, or a canvas, or some yarn and needles, or wherever they're asking to go.

virgo: your mind is likely racing with possibilities all week. you can trust your logic *and* your intuition. but don't invest overly in your worries or anxieties or compulsions, and certainly not in outside influence. listening is ok, but the decisions ultimately must rest with you.

libra: this week's new moon is, for you, a money moon. a wise investment (of time, if money is not in the budget) pays off big time in the long run, say, six months or so from now. but it's not the time for splurging too much. something local especially can be beneficial to you now, anything from opening up an actual storefront to just telling your friends and neighbors about a service you can provide for payment.

scorpio: annually there is a new moon in your sign, always near halloween time. it's a mysterious and magical new moon and dark sky, absolutely ripe with possibilities. so you get to make of this energy whatever you will. watch for it to unfold over the next six months.

sagittarius: any shadow work or psychoanalyzing you've been wanting to do on yourself can be greatly aided by this week's new moon, but avoid risky activities or shady behaviors. then mercury's ingress into your sign grants you a silver tongue - try to use this power only for good.

capricorn: using this week to make new friends is a fantastic idea, as is using it to deepen bonds with old friends. if you're not in a very sociable mood a deep journaling session would not at all go amiss.

aquarius: some form of public spotlight is on you. perhaps your status or reputation is under a microscope at work or your wider circle of friends has learned some private secret about you. these things may be awkward at this time, but later on prove to move your life along in the correct direction. it's for the plot.

pisces: strong vibes are being emitted from all the elements but this week water is among the strongest of all vibes. you're extra psychic, especially with some of the neptune transits occurring. but don't expect people to understand - you can tell them whatever you wish but they are unlikely to be on quite the same wavelength.

watch the transit posts in real time to have the best guide through your week. want a little more? have a look at my patreon or ko-fi.

check out my etsy for a private reading or dm me to set up a reading through venmo, cashapp, or paypal.

[thejournallo]

Explain the basic: Crystals

Check out Part 1, which explains how to use the things down below.

Agate

Color: Variety of colorful layers Element: Fire Properties: Calming anxiety, quieting your mind, grounding, connecting with nature, luck, prosperity, getting through tough times, comfort, healing from grief, strength, intelligence, communicating well, boosting confidence, protection

Amazonite

Color: Light green, bluish green Element: Earth Properties: Spirit work, intuition, necromancy, calming anxiety and grounding, quelling fear, communicating clearly, leadership, building trust, inspiring self and others, success and luck, supportive strength, creative ideas, focusing on the end goal, cultivating joy.

Amber

By scientific standards, amber is neither a stone nor a crystal, but it nevertheless has a lot of power. It is beneficial to have nearby as it has the ability to transform negative energy into positive energy. It also possesses energy, which you may observe by rubbing amber across a piece of fabric or carpet to observe the static electricity that results.

Color: Translucent gold Element: Earth Properties: Convert negative energy into positive energy, emptying mind, clarity, releasing stored emotions from your psyche, healing negative emotional wounds, protection, putting mind and spirit at peace.

Amethyst

a revered crystal for centuries, is valued for its healing and protective properties. Its vibrant purple hue signifies its abilities to cleanse spaces, protect against negativity, and promote spiritual well-being. It offers comfort and relief by calming the mind, moderating emotions, and reducing anxiety. Amethyst also aids in improving sleep, addressing subconscious issues, enhancing intuition, and fostering spiritual connections.

Color: Purple Element: Water Properties: Healing, cleansing powers, protection, healing whole self, spiritual intuition, stress relief, calming, dampen mood swings, end nightmares, help insomnia, dream work, psychic skills, spiritual awareness, sobriety, ending and healing addiction, self discipline, inner strength, peace.

Aquamarine

Color: Turquoise, teal Element: Water Properties: Determination, fearlessness, expressing yourself, cleansing and purification, tapping into your intuition and psychic abilities.

Aventurine

Color: Variety but often green Element: Air Properties: Creativity, seeing new opportunities, free the mind to accept success, wealth and prosperity, confidence and self power, decisive action.

Azurite

Color: Deep blue Element: Water Properties: Healing of all forms, divination and foresight, dreamwork, focus and concentration, personal and spiritual metamorphosis.

Beryl

Color: Often green or light blue Element: Water Properties: Protection and healing, amplify and tune into energy, and psychic intuition.

Bloodstone

Color: Spotted green and red Element: Fire Properties: Physical health and recovery, healing, confidence in one’s abilities, tenacity, toughness, triumph.

Blue Kyanite

Color: Blue with white layers Element: Water Properties: Balancing energies, new beginnings, soul searching, finding new truths, facing change boldly, guidance in new situations, course corrections.

Calcite

Color: Typically white or yellow Element: Fire Properties: Grounding and centering, cleansing, purifying, mental peace and calm, clear mind.

Carnelian

Color: Orange-red Element: Fire Properties: Manifesting thoughts and ideas into actions and reality, achieving goals, feeling in control, productivity, building self esteem, courage, and confidence, igniting and following passions, eliminating procrastination, building motivation.

Chrysocolla

Color: Turquoise, teal Element: Water Properties: Wisdom, depth of knowledge, balancing mind and emotions, calming oneself, inner peace.

Chrysoprase

Color: Green Element: Earth Properties: Effective communication, working in groups, making your ideas heard, mental influence, poise, articulation.

Citrine

Color: Yellow, orange Element: Fire Properties: Positive energies, calming environment at home, facilitating communication, general wellness and well being, joy, protective powers, provides balance.

Diamond

Color: Clear Element: Fire Properties: As the Earth’s hardest substance it gives extreme permanence and durability, diligence, resilience, purification, and personal and spiritual growth.

Emerald

Color: Green Element: Earth Properties: Material success, prosperity, career accomplishment, protection, and self awareness.

Fluorite

Color: Variety of colors Element: Earth Properties: Healing in all forms– physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, energetic.

Garnet

Color: Red, pink Element: Fire Properties: Protection, returns negative energies back to sender, builds desire and passion, creativity and imagination, positive attitude and improve outlook, prime you for success, bring love and strength to others.

Hematite

Hematite, a magnetic material found in the Earth, is prized for its protective and grounding attributes. It enhances mental clarity, memory, and focus while absorbing negativity and stress. It aids in boosting self-esteem, confidence, and breaking bad habits. Hematite's reflective nature supports divination practices like scrying and is useful in attracting positive energies in spellwork

Color: Black, grey, brown Element: Earth Properties: Protection, grounding, think clearly, memory improvement, focus, gain perspective, reduce anxiety, absorb negativity, soothe stress, build self esteem, increase confidence, boost willpower, end addictions, scrying, magnetic properties.

Jade

Color: Green Element: Earth Properties: Self improvement, self love and peace with oneself, emotional health and balance, happiness.

Jasper

Color: Yellow, brown Element: Earth Properties: Flexibility, open mind, career success, coordination, dedication, determination, relentlessness, industriousness, grounding, luck, and balance.

Jet

Color: Black Element: Water Properties: Overcoming grief, healing after death of a loved one, protection, absorbing negativity, grounding, mental and emotional well being, general healing.

Kunzite

Color: Pink, purple Element: Earth Properties: Grounding and balance, relaxation and calm, stress relief, introspection and inner growth, peace and harmony.

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is an ancient and sacred stone that’s been used for its healing and clarity properties for many years. It’s a powerful stone to heal emotional wounds. It’s often used in meditation to promote focus and mental purity.

Color: Blue with white or yellow stripes Element: Water Properties: Eye-opening stone, discover truth, wisdom and intuition, enlightenment and spiritual awakening, find your calling, insight, psychic intuition and prophecy, connecting with the spirit world, focus and concentration, healing emotional wounds.

Lepidolite

Color: Variety but pink is common Element: Water Properties: Emotional balance, mood regulation, calming anxiety, stress, and other negative emotions, bringing about inner peace, ending nightmares, harmonious spirituality.

Lodestone

Lodestone, a magnetic crystal with unique properties, serves as a bridge between stone and metal. Its natural magnetism provides potent healing for the body and is commonly worn for protection and luck attraction. Creating an oil from lodestone enhances its luck-attracting properties, but to maintain its energy, regular feeding, often with the oil alongside other magnetic materials, is necessary.

Color: Black, grey, brown Element: Water Properties: Healing rituals, physical health, energy and endurance, circulation and immune system, pain reduction, good luck amulet, grounding, good luck oil, protection from negativity and dark magick, dampening negative emotions, attracting wealth, prosperity, and luck.

Malachite

Color: Green Element: Earth Properties: Facilitate life changes, rebirth and new beginnings, adventure, personal success, wealth and prosperity.

Moldavite

Color: Green, blue Element: Air Properties: Intuition and psychic abilities, subconscious awareness, wisdom and insight, balance, consecration and blessings.

Moonstone

Color: Variety Element: Water Properties: Emotional connection, forming deep relationships, connection with nature and the cycle of life, listening to the heart, empathy and compassion, heal emotional trauma, kindness, protection from dark magick and negative energies, moon magick, clairvoyance, dreamwork, lucid dreaming, and mystery.

Moss Agate

Color: White, green, black Element: Earth Properties: Physical prowess, strength, victory, bravery, energy, endurance, and stamina, eliminate negative emotions, luck.

Obsidian

Color: Black Element: Fire Properties: Protection from negative energies, grounding.

Onyx

Color: Black Element: Fire Properties: Protection against dark magick, seances, contacting the spirit world and departed loved ones, guards against possessions.

Opal

Color: Variety Element: Air Properties: Can be difficult to use, each color has different properties, strong stone, intensifies emotions, increases sensitivities and consciousness, psychic awareness. 

Peridot

Color: Green, blue Element: Earth Properties: Prosperity, wealth and success, attract luck, abundance, growth and forgiveness, improving your life.

Pyrite

Color: Gold Element: Fire Properties: Luck, success, attracting prosperity and wealth, positivity and optimism, determination and strength to follow passions and achieve goals.

Quartz

Clear quartz stands out as the ideal first crystal for magical work, given its unparalleled versatility. Acting as a substitute for different crystals, it's easily accessible and affordable due to its abundance. Its amplifying, purifying, and directing abilities with positive energies make it excellent for protective spellwork and countering negative forces. Moreover, it aids in healing, clarity, focus, and spiritual development, making it a perfect starting crystal for beginners

Color: Clear Element: Air Properties: All-purpose, versatile, substitute for other crystals, energy pathways, positive energy, direct and strengthen energy, purification, protection, healing, clarification, focus, procrastination, spiritual growth.

Red Jasper

Color: Red Element: Fire Properties: Emotional protection, emotional distance, thinking rationally and logically, letting go of worries, lessen anxiety, dispel negative energies, optimism, stability and security, grounding, strength, defense against dark magick.

Rhodochrosite

Color: Pink, rose Element: Fire Properties: Sexual passions, romantic exploits, sexual power and adventure, attracting love, fertility, forming new relationships and friendships, compassion and empathy for others.

Rhodonite

Color: Pink, rose Element: Fire Properties: Healing especially emotional healing, grief, healing from loss or death, forgiveness,  reconciling old relationships, mending current relationships, attracting love, making yourself a better person for others.

Rose Quartz

Rose quartz, known for its loving energy, covers multiple facets of love—romantic, friendship, caregiving, and self-love. Its use in spells for romance, friendship mending, and healing heartbreak is notable. This crystal aids in opening the heart, fostering unconditional love, and improving self-relationship by enhancing forgiveness, trust, acceptance, and self-worth. Beyond love, it offers healing and protective properties, shielding from negativity, reducing anxiety, and providing comfort and peace.

Color: Pink, rose Element: Water Properties: Romance, friendship, unconditional love, love spells, heartbreak, open heart, cleanse spirit, forgiving and trusting yourself, healing, protection, peace.

Ruby

Color: Red Element: Fire Properties: Sexuality and desire, finding love, virility, life passion, happiness, intuition and clairvoyance, empathy and improving relationships, emotional health.

Sapphire

Color: Variety but often deep blue Element: Water Properties: Psychic abilities, foresight and visions, luck, dreamwork, spiritual connection, creativity and inspiration, subconscious awareness, monetary goals, protection and protective magick.

Selenite

Selenite, a powerful crystal, excels in providing clarity, offering insights into the bigger picture when one feels overwhelmed by details. Its link between the physical and spirit worlds makes it invaluable for meditation and spiritual work. In dream exploration, especially when combined with amethyst, it aids in preventing nightmares, improving sleep, and enhancing dream awareness for lucid dreaming and astral projection. This crystal fosters tranquility, honesty, and virtue by cleansing negativity and elevating personal vibrations, but caution is advised as it should not be exposed to water.

Color: Often milky white Element: Water Properties: Clarity, see big picture, spirit guidance, insight, awareness, spirit work, dream work, stop bad dreams, help insomnia, lucid dreaming, astral projection, peace, calm, truthfulness, virtue, cleansing negativity.

Serpentine

Color: Green, brown Element: Fire Properties: Positivity, bright spirit, generosity, creativity, peace and calm, joy and happiness, consecration and blessings.

moky Quartz

Color: Grey Element: Earth Properties: Positivity and optimism, overcoming fear, overcoming obstacles, intuition and subconscious knowledge, grounding and centering.

Sodalite

Sodalite is a companion stone to lapis lazuli. They have similar properties, and if you require lapis lazuli, you can substitute in sodalite. 

Color: Royal blue Element: Air, water Properties: Psychic intellect, insight and intuition, clairvoyance, rational and logical thought, wisdom, self awareness, clearing the mind of distractions, self control and mental discipline, working in groups, communicating your thoughts to others, two-way communication, improving communication in a relationship.

Sunstone

Color: Variety but often pink or peach Element: Fire Properties: Taking action, following passion, conviction, persistence, embracing fear, sexuality, toughness, sun magick, protection and healing.

Tiger’s Eye

Color: Brown striped Element: Fire Properties: Truth seeking, perceive reality, uncover devious or fraudulent intentions, clarity of the mind, see past illusions and deceptions, integrity and honor, loyalty and courage, and travel protection.

Topaz

Color: Variety but often blue or orange Element: Fire Properties: Avoid scarcity mindset, abundance, winning, success, desire and attractiveness, receptive to love, friendship and affection, intelligence and wisdom, flexibility, mental strength, protection and healing.

Tourmaline

Color: Variety but often pink or green Element: Earth Properties: Avoiding scarcity mindset, abundance, prosperity, believing in yourself, cleansing and protection, clearing the mind, repel negative energies, protect from harm, protect emotions, peace and calm, quell worry and self doubt, reduce stress.

Turquoise

Turquoise, known for its vibrant and protective qualities, adeptly neutralizes negativity and aligns with personal energy. It serves as a potent defense against negativity during social interactions and possesses healing attributes, radiating positivity, joy, peace, and self-love. Whether for grounding, defensive magic, or as a supportive aid in challenging circumstances, turquoise proves to be an invaluable companion.

Color: Bright blue-green Element: Water Properties: Protection, subdue negativity, works with your personal energy, positivity, joy, happiness, grounding, defensive magick, luck and prosperity, love and attraction, empathy and compassion.

Unakite

Color: Mottled green, orange, and other colors Element: Earth Properties: Connecting to nature, empathy with all living beings, animal magick, grounding, natural guidance, peace for all.

Zircon

Color: Variety Element: Fire Properties: Avoiding scarcity mindset, abundance, success, wealth, protection, cleansing and purification, balance and harmony, peace, healing and personal growth, receptive to love, joy.

As always, I will love to hear your thoughts! and if you have any questions, I will be more than happy to answer them! If you liked it, leave a comment or reblog (that is always appreciated!). if you are intrested in more method check the masterlist!

[dreamycircuit]

How AI is Changing Jobs: The Rise of Automation and How to Stay Ahead in 2025

AI and Jobs

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere. From self-checkout kiosks to AI-powered chatbots handling customer service, it’s changing the way businesses operate. While AI is making things faster and more efficient, it’s also making some jobs disappear. If you’re wondering how this affects you and what you can do about it, keep reading — because the future is already here.

The AI Boom: How It’s Reshaping the Workplace

AI is not just a buzzword anymore; it’s the backbone of modern business. Companies are using AI for automation, decision-making, and customer interactions. But what does that mean for jobs?

AI is Taking Over Repetitive Tasks

Gone are the days when data entry, basic accounting, and customer support relied solely on humans. AI tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Midjourney are doing tasks that once required an entire team. This means fewer jobs in these sectors, but also new opportunities elsewhere.

Companies are Hiring Fewer People

With AI handling routine work, businesses don’t need as many employees as before. Hiring freezes, downsizing, and increased automation are making it tougher to land a new job.

AI-Related Jobs are on the Rise

On the flip side, there’s massive demand for AI engineers, data scientists, and automation specialists. Companies need people who can build, maintain, and optimize AI tools.

Trending AI Skills Employers Want:

Machine Learning & Deep Learning

Prompt Engineering

AI-Powered Marketing & SEO

AI in Cybersecurity

Data Science & Analytics

Click Here to Know more

The Decline of Traditional Job Offers

AI is shaking up industries, and some job roles are disappearing faster than expected. Here’s why new job offers are on the decline:

AI-Driven Cost Cutting

Businesses are using AI to reduce operational costs. Instead of hiring new employees, they’re investing in AI-powered solutions that automate tasks at a fraction of the cost.

The Gig Economy is Replacing Full-Time Jobs

Instead of hiring full-time staff, companies are outsourcing work to freelancers and gig workers. This means fewer stable job opportunities but more chances for independent workers.

Economic Uncertainty

The global economy is unpredictable, and businesses are cautious about hiring. With AI improving efficiency, companies are choosing to scale down their workforce.

Click Here to Know more

Preparing for an AI-Driven Future

Feeling worried? Don’t be. AI isn’t just taking jobs — it’s also creating new ones. The key is to stay ahead by learning the right skills and adapting to the changing landscape.

1. Learn AI and Data Analytics

The best way to future-proof your career is to understand AI. Free courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy can get you started.

2. Develop Soft Skills AI Can’t Replace

AI is great at automation, but it lacks emotional intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking. Strengthening these skills can give you an edge.

3. Embrace Remote & Freelance Work

With traditional jobs shrinking, freelancing is a great way to stay flexible. Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal have booming demand for AI-related skills.

4. Use AI to Your Advantage

Instead of fearing AI, learn how to use it. AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Canva can help boost productivity and creativity.

5. Never Stop Learning

Technology evolves fast. Stay updated with new AI trends, attend webinars, and keep improving your skills.

Click Here to Know more

Final Thoughts

AI is here to stay, and it’s changing the job market rapidly. While some traditional roles are disappearing, new opportunities are emerging. The key to surviving (and thriving) in this AI-driven world is adaptability. Keep learning, stay flexible, and embrace AI as a tool — not a threat.

Click Here to Know more

Share this blog if you found it helpful! Let’s spread awareness and help people prepare for the AI revolution.

[undercityrezident]

My Reflections on Octopath Traveler 2: Part 1

(This reflection has been split into four parts because of Tumblr's image limit per post. Please find Part 2 here, Part 3 here, and Part 4 here.)

Before I begin, I should outline my bias for this game. It’s no exaggeration to say that I might have a sense of inflated gratitude for Octopath Traveler 2. When I was forced to deal with a difficult situation throughout the month of March, I had little in the way to entertain me. One avenue to help retain my sanity was my Nintendo Switch, though I'd already played through most of the games I own for that console.

But that’s when I turned my attention to a game I’d gotten as a gift a couple of Christmases ago, a game that I’d been sleeping on for far too long: Octopath Traveler 2. After inserting that cartridge into my Switch and booting up the game, it quickly became the main reason I wasn’t going stir-crazy.

I’ve played the first Octopath Traveler, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, even with some of the flaws I noted on my playthrough, so I knew that I was likely in for something good unless Square Enix royally botched it. However, an RPG of this sort is a time investment, making it daunting to approach when you have so much else going on, hence why it took me so long to finally sit down with this sequel. Now, with abundant time on my hands, there was no better moment to finally dive in.

And boy, was it a deep plunge, and a refreshing one at that.

So here it is, now that I’m back on here with a continuing obsession with the game that single-handedly helped me for those three weeks and is continuing to drive me into obsession in the aftermath: my reflection on Octopath Traveler 2, for all its goods and ills.

And believe me, the goods outweigh the ills heavily.

Before you read on, while this reflection is about a game that came out over two years ago, those who still want to go into it as blissfully blind as I did, please take note that there will be complete spoilers for the game below the cut.

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The Boosting and Breaking of Iconic Battles

One of the biggest appeals and strongest points of the original Octopath Traveler, in my opinion, was its battle system, and it’s no surprise that it returned with more than a few tweaks and additions. At its core, the battle gameplay is largely the same as before, but its complexity has been notched up, buffing the break and boost system by adding a new latent power meter that fills up under various conditions throughout the battle.

If you thought you could pull off some insane combinations in the original game, wait until you tie in the various characters’ latent powers when they pop off. I’ve managed to snag some victories from the jaws of defeat in some truly insane ways. And while I’ve heard it’s quite easy to optimize your party to completely obliterate some bosses far too fast to enjoy them, I wasn’t that kind of player—both for being not quite that smart and also for being the kind of player who doesn’t min/max by instinct unless there’s absolutely nothing else to do.

The result of my playstyle was the chance to see some truly fun and creative boss battles, which remain one of the highlights of this game as it was in the first. Another step up the game took in this sense was how the game played with mechanics and the dynamism of its battles to drive up the stakes. Some bosses shrouded the turn order from you, temporarily pushed certain party members out of the fight, outright turned party members against you, stacked debuffs throughout the fight to add a sense of timing and urgency, and even nullified once-reliable abilities. As the best example I can think of, I can rightly say that the final boss was ten times more intense than it would’ve been for the fact that you couldn’t revive your allies except when the boss was broken, making every decision feel tense and risky.

Of course, these challenges were offset by how you could strategize to make sure you had varying degrees of party synergy. The sub-job system returned, and with many classes revamped with returning abilities and new ones to complement their associated characters’ unique personalities compared to the travelers in the first game, combinations and ideas to combat even the toughest of challenges in the game were abundant. Also returning is the fun idea of giving alternate outfits to each traveler’s sprite in battle when they take said sub-job. Just take one look at any character you give the hunter sub-job and tell me they don’t at least look marginally cuter with animal ears.

While we don’t see the return of the same secret jobs from the first game, we get new ones that have some interesting dynamics of their own. They’re typically acquired towards the very end of the game, so you might not get as much time to mess around with them as the others, but they do open up some very intriguing potential as the challenge mounts toward the game’s climax. The exception to this is the inventor class, which is available from very early on, but the resources to unlock its abilities are typically found slowly throughout the game. Still, the inventor allowed for some flexibility early on, making some growing pains a little easier at lower levels.

And Osvald looks good in a steampunk top hat with goggles, let me tell you.

Overall, the battle system was already built on a very sturdy foundation, and the developers managed to make this game’s system—and the battles by extension—better as well.

Plus, I will not forget the absolutely intense excitement of fighting the final boss with ALL. EIGHT. TRAVELERS. AT. ONCE. What a rush! What a thrilling climax, getting to pilot the whole team, even if it was done on a pseudo-switching system. That, in itself, added another layer of strategy I had to consider on top of the already staunch difficulty of the final boss.

Even the small additions made the battles feel that much richer, like the travelers adding flavour to encounters by complimenting one another on their accomplishments in breaking an opponent or expressing concern for a fallen character. The travelers even had special lines when summoning particular characters to the fight or when fully boosting against their story bosses.

Few things in the game hit me as hard as when Osvald fully boosted himself during his Chapter 4 boss fight and cried out, “Forgive me, Rita!” or when Throné was letting out growls of pure anger when fighting Claude. I had no idea how much more these little touches would endear me to these characters, make battles feel that much more gratifying when breaking an opponent, or how much more tension I’d feel when the characters would voice their dismay on seeing someone gravely wounded.

Of course, the tension in battle would be nothing without our implacable foes, and once again, the artwork details for bosses drive home both the nostalgia for such design styles and choices from the games of yore. It also greatly serves the purpose of highlighting the threat, characteristics or, in some cases, downright depravity of some of the villains you face in this game, especially when paired with their voice acting. These battles are nothing without stakes and motivation to fight these opponents, and the artwork and interspersed dialogue in the battles help to amp up the drama of it and make it feel just as personal for you as it is for the travelers.

Of course, I can’t say the battle system was absolutely perfect. There were a few flaws here and there that frustrated me, even if only momentarily. Some spells or abilities were lacking a measure of description that crippled me in crucial moments because I had either misunderstood them or their level of non-specificity led to poorly informed decisions.

One such example that comes to mind is Alephan’s Wisdom, which works for numerous abilities between different party members, but it’s hardly possible to tell which except by experimentation. In the clutches of an intense battle, experimentation of that ilk is ill-advised, but there were times I had to gamble on it in a dire moment. When that gamble failed to pay off, it felt rather depressing. The idea that I might have to look it up to know exactly which spells it could enhance was a grating prospect.

As well, there were instances in certain boss battles, whether by simple bad luck or some flawed design, where a boss would empower themselves to unleash a devastating move at the end of a turn, only to immediately go first the next round and unleash said horrid ability to cripple my party, giving me absolutely no hope to prevent it by breaking their defences. While I can see horrific probability being the main culprit for this, I would hope that the game’s programming would allow for some intelligence in determining whether the boss should be allowed to pull off such a power-up move when it knows that they get the next move the round after.

I found this happened more than a few times throughout the game, and while I could say that I might have just that much bad luck, I want to think it happened often enough that I feel there should’ve just been a touch more thought put into developing countermeasures against this sort of occurrence.

That said, I can’t say that these small and infrequent complaints overshadow the otherwise stellar and well-thought-out battle gameplay that permeated the game overall. Even small things, like the ability to fast-forward battles to help with the little grinding that I needed to do, made big differences in my appreciation for the game's battles. The battle system did not need to change too drastically from the first game to maintain its appeal, but I saw how many aspects were tightened up to make it even better than before.

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Taking Path Actions to Improve Gameplay and Design

The battle system wasn’t the only thing that saw additions in the sequel.

The Introduction of a day/night system added extra depth by making the world feel a bit more lived in. NPCs would change location and dialogue depending on the time of day. Some puzzles and side quests can only be completed at one time or another. A scant few can only be completed by switching between the times of day to accomplish separate tasks pursuing the same goal.

This core mechanic of switching between day and night also complements one of the game’s overall narrative themes, driving the point the game makes all the more deeply by integrating it into gameplay. This, to me, is a hallmark of great game design, as many video games tend to ignore such integration in favour of relying on the player’s ability to suspend their disbelief or rely on the disparity between gameplay and storytelling that’s sometimes come to be expected with video games (less so lately with improvements in technology, though it’s still a prevailing trend). While there are a few exceptions to this exceptional design philosophy throughout the game, Octopath Traveler 2 does its best to keep to it, and playing the game feels all the more satisfying and cohesive as a result of this attention to detail and care.

The time-of-day system also deepens the characters’ mechanics, as each character now has two path actions: one for day and one for night. The day actions correspond to those you know for each job in the first game, but their night path actions not only add variety and flexibility in how you tackle challenges in the overworld but also deepen the characterization of the travelers. Osvald, a scholar and ex-prisoner, mugs people at night for their items, demonstrating his straightforward nature and his willingness to do what he must to proceed on his quest for revenge. Ochette gains followers by literally sharing meals to make friends with them. As above with merging gameplay with story, merging characterization with gameplay is a fantastic demonstration of excellent game design and attention to detail.

Path actions also play a pivotal role in the game. While, for most of it, they are simply a means to acquire items, information, and additional boons in battle, there are a few moments here and there where they help facilitate plot progression. At times, it does feel like a bit of a slowdown in the storytelling to try and make the game feel more interactive. These can feel like awkward sticking points, especially as dialogue scenes and gameplay are segregated by fade-to-black-fade-in transitions. But there are some crucial moments where these path-action plot moments feel notably impactful.

Nowhere is this more evident than in a few of the ending sequences of the game, where a path action is used in a crucial moment to either incredibly comedic or emotional effect. These specific moments will be touched on in my story reflections later, but the fact that attempts were made, sometimes quite successfully, to incorporate these gameplay elements into the storytelling is very much appreciated. It helps make me, the player, feel involved in the story, which should be a primary goal for an interactive medium like a video game.

On the note of storytelling, side stories return as well, and while many are of similar stock to the first game in terms of depth and quality, there are a few exceptions that expand the scope of storytelling potential. Some great examples are the trials series in Timberain, the Stage Actors quest in Tropu’hopu whose result depends on who completes it, the Washed-Up Letter alluding to a character in Osvald’s chapter 1, the Mysterious Box leading to a haunted house, and many of the “next chapter” quests which wrap up and add further some NPC characters’ stories.

These things are not the only quality features the game retains from its predecessor. The art style the game evokes remains as charming as ever, with lovingly rendered environments and contrasting spritework for the characters. The sprites seem quite a bit livelier as well, with more detail and animations being added to give them a sort of vibrancy that helps add character and works in tandem with the voice work to provide an engaging story while maintaining the goal of paying homage to older RPGs. Agnea’s story benefits especially from these more vibrant and active sprites, as many of her cutscenes depend on these small but still communicative displays.

I also want to give a note of appreciation for the various pieces of artwork in the game. Each character gets a pair of portraits that, more often than not, highlight the characters’ path actions by day or night. They further help draw out the travelers’ unique characterizations, once again tying portrayal to gameplay.

I should also mention that, once again following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Octopath Traveler 2’s character designs are top-notch, communicating well the themes, motivations, and feelings of the characters they portray. Even better are the characters’ story-ending artwork, each evoking some aspect of the character or their story lovingly.

However, one point that sticks out to me as something that may not have been as well integrated into the game but added as a sort of bonus feature for “cool factor” was the fact that you could get your own sailing vessel in the game. Don’t get me wrong, as someone who absolutely loves all themes nautical, I was thrilled when I first discovered I could purchase and pilot a sailing ship on the seas between Solistia’s two continents.

The idea of discovering islands and treasures I otherwise wouldn’t have had access to was exciting at first. However, I found I quickly exhausted all these discoveries rather quickly, and the act of sailing around quickly grew dull. It was nice to note that I could, if I wanted, cross between the continents at will without having to pay for ferries anymore, but that was something I could already do once I’d already paid the fare at least once to each anchorage and unlocked fast-travel locations.

I feel like more could’ve been done with the sailing segment of this game, but it felt somewhat tacked on, largely acting as a money gate for characters to access late-game areas to complete their stories. If there had been something more added, like more story elements at sea—a ship-to-ship pursuit ending in a ship battle to confront a villain would been amazing—or… the ability to visit Orsterra (however limited that would have to be for the development time/resources for the game), I would’ve much more greatly appreciated the ability to sail around.

Another irking issue for me was something carried over from the first game: the fact that you must keep your starting character in the party. I never really understood this decision in the original game or this one, and I speculate that it has something to do with the idea of picking your protagonist and only being able to part with them once you’ve settled their story.

Even as much as I found myself captivated by my starting character’s (Throné’s) story, I feel all these characters’ stories are important, especially to them. Each character is a protagonist in their own right, whether their stories are more relevant to the overarching plot or have greater stakes or not. For these reasons, I don’t understand why I’m forced to have a character locked into my party, relegating me to having them levelled way higher than the others while I try to level the rest evenly so I don’t feel shortchanged for their combat abilities when I bring them to their respective story chapters.

Still, even in the wake of these flaws, it's clear that the developers put a lot of effort into not only maintaining the quality gameplay established in the first Octopath Traveler but also working to eclipse it in the sequel as well. From start to finish, the overworld gameplay was well-thought-out and executed, sparing no detail to ensure that every hour of this game was memorable. And I have to say, in the two weeks I spent playing, I can remember quite a few emotional moments due to this game’s artistic and design polish.

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Travelling Eight Ways Through Stories to Bring the World to Life

Worldbuilding and General Ideas

Before I dive into each of the individual characters’ stories, I should note that the world of Solistia itself is, to me, a fascinating setting. I’m not a connoisseur of RPGs of this sort, so I might be able to write this off to how few I’ve played, but I have to say that a world that’s on the cusp of an industrial revolution, with the advent of the steam engine being one of the main plot points, is a novel idea to me.

Where medieval-fantasy and steampunk RPGs seem dime-a-dozen, one where the advent of such technology is an active influence in the game, paralleling human history, is something I found quite refreshing. Even better, it helped to reinforce many of the themes common to multiple characters’ storylines. The concepts of class disparity and the influence technology could have on those levels of social and cultural strata, for good or ill, is a theme and idea that resonates strongly, even today—especially today. Accenting these themes in a fantastical world also containing magic, monsters, and gods makes for something not only poignant but entertaining in equal measure.

The contrast between the old world and the new, the wealthy and the poor, and the powerful and the downtrodden, are all themes that tie together this game’s world and its central characters. In twain, concepts that bridge these ideas and people, whether it be technology, culture, faith, or emotion, all make their marks on this game and its myriad tales.

The game’s setting is every bit a character as its eight travelers, and their stories would be all the lesser if such an intriguing and deep world weren’t built around them. You need only complete some side stories or use the inquire action to see the depth written into this game and its people. I spent well over a hundred hours playing this game, and I’m sure I still don’t have a full grasp on everything this game contains with its living, breathing complexity in all its denizens. But I’ve managed to peer pretty closely at it through those hundred hours, and I am thoroughly impressed.

If you want a comedic example, go to Clockbank and inquire through its citizenry. You’ll marvel at the sheer ridiculousness of the thieves’ guild mind games being played by a startlingly large section of its population. For a more serious one, inquire to the citizens of Roque Island and see how they’re all treated as numbers on a spreadsheet by their employer.

Beyond the world, there are also efforts made to enhance the story past the simple act of writing. Compared to the first game, this game features TONS more voice acting. While the prequel had voice acting in specific scenes, just about every line spoken in a character’s main story (barring chatting with random NPCs irrelevant to the plot) has voice acting. This was clearly a massive effort, and I must say I appreciate it. I think it does these stories a great service to have the writing fully expressed in this way, making so many more moments so much more impactful.

My only complaint regarding this is that the travel banters, returning from the previous game, aren’t voice-acted. Wonderful as they are (having grown in how they portray facets of the characters, connections between the travelers, and their reactions to ongoing events), it’s an oddity to see dialogue for these characters not voiced in contrast to how everything else is. I hope future games in this series see the travel banter voice acted in the same way we saw it done in their main stories. I can only imagine how much fun it would be to hear them bouncing off each other in ways similar to how they did in their crossed paths (which I will certainly be discussing later).

However, I do very much appreciate that all the character-chapter-based travel banters, even the ones you missed for not having the right party members together at the right time, are viewable after the fact. I loved being able to look back and see what each character thought about various events or their fellow travelers without fear of having to replay the game (or search for it online).

And finally, before turning to the individual stories, I wanted to praise the decision to let each traveler undertake their own Chapter 1 themselves (besides whatever NPCs they might have with them for plot reasons). While it was cool to go around helping each traveler conquer their first boss in the first game, I felt that it better served to build characterization, introduce supporting characters, and keep the focus on each traveler if they each got to conquer their first chapters by themselves before interacting with the party.

With that all said, I finally get to dig into the main reason I’ve wanted to write this reflection in the first place: the travelers’ stories. I wanted to do this in the proper “O-C-T-O-P-A-T-H” character order, but I feel it would be more natural for me to write about them in the order I encountered them.

Throné

I began my long journey with Throné. I’ve read that many people started with her because they anticipated the return of the purple “lockpick” chests from the first game, but I had completely forgotten about those. It’s been a long while since I played this game’s prequel, so it hadn’t even occurred to me. I picked her because a) I’m always here for a complex femme fatale character, and b) I’m always here for a dark, tragic story, and her introductory blurb assured me of that.

I had almost picked Osvald for his own intense tale of revenge, but I opted to choose Throné because I suspected that I’d have to keep my starting character in the party much as the first game did, which I was correct about, and I wanted to have something other than a scholar this time, as I had picked Cyrus in my first game (I generally have a predisposition towards intelligent, caster type characters and classes/jobs and wanted to try to play against that for variety this time around).

So it was that I began with Throné, and perhaps there’s a bias due to her being my starter character, but hers was perhaps the strongest Chapter 1 I’d seen among all of them. While you could easily draw parallels to Therion’s story in the first game, with both characters being bound by something—the bangle versus the collar—the approach taken here is intensely different.

Where Therion had to deal with the existence of his ex-partner and all the troubles that come with that, Throné is actively trying to escape her association with the Blacksnakes, and the setup that comes with that in Chapter 1, both in terms of narrative and the actual setup by Mother and Father, hit hard. Being forced to kill Pirro in a death match arranged in the shadiest of circumstances is both tragic and intense. The way events set up Throné’s quest for freedom and the main antagonists of her story in Mother and Father is expertly executed.

This chapter firmly established Throné as a strong, driven character for me, pushed along a gripping story by an undercurrent of dark tones that lean on the foibles of parentage, imposed or otherwise. I was drawn further in by the portrayal of Mother as an incredibly vile villain, irredeemable in all the best ways that make it satisfying for us to take her down in her path’s Chapter 3. The small but poignant parallel in having Mira witness it, given the revelation of Mother having killed Throné’s true mother, only drove a dagger deeper into my captivated heart as I watched that story branch conclude.

Father, on the other hand, is a more complicated matter, and his route contrasts Mother’s route fantastically. While there is no doubt that Father is not a good person, there is that seed of what kind of good—or at least, slightly better—person he might’ve had the potential to be if things hadn’t turned so sour for him. The loss of Marietta and his true child to Throné’s true father utterly broke him, if his tale is to be believed at least—and the doubt invoked by potentially unreliable narration does make the story more interesting to consider. The ensuing battle with Father, having trained Throné to finally end his miserable existence, however tragic and utterly twisted it is, was thoroughly emotional.

In the end, it was evident that, in his own intensely perverse and morally bankrupt way, Father did try to be a good parent to Throné, even threatening to kill Mother should she kill Throné. We can probably all agree everything Father did fucked up Throné to such a degree that she’ll probably never recover fully from the trauma of the life she lived, but it still felt somewhat touching to see Throné give Father some semblance of peace at the end when she called him Dad.

I think the part that messed me up the most in the wake of it all was how the dagger you looted from him was named after Marietta. Sadly, though, I found its impact somewhat blunted by how I quickly found a weapon that I thought was better and equipped it to Throné not long after. I never sold Marietta, though.

With those chapters closed and with the revelation that Father and Mother’s keys could not unlock Throné’s collar, and thus her freedom, her Chapter 4 brought us back to New Delsta, and I’m always a fan of bookending stories like this.

However, this chapter is where I felt Throné’s story faltered in an otherwise excellent tale. Had this part of the story been foreshadowed or hinted at better, this might’ve been, without a doubt, my favourite story among all the travelers’. We had a singular hint of the upcoming twist, one that came so early on in Mother’s Chapter 2 route that was so vague that there was no way I could start putting anything together before this chapter. Only Father’s final speeches indicated anything about Throné’s true father, and even that didn’t give much detail of the man nor his staggering crimes and depraved conduct.

Yes, Claude, Throné’s true father, is an absolute monster and one of the most, if not the vilest, villains in the series. Hell, he probably holds a top-ten position amongst my mental pantheon of reprehensible villains (at least by metrics of their misdeeds). He is found in a truly haunted place. Nothing is said of Lostseed or why it is the way it is—at least none that I found beyond the speculation that it was this kingdom spoken vaguely in fables that various characters in Throné’s story recite. This unsolved mystery might be such by design, as some mysteries might have a better impact if left unsolved. However, I cannot give the same benefit of the doubt with the approach the developers took with introducing Claude.

Claude, apparently the literal progenitor of all the Blacksnakes—all in an attempt to sire an offspring to kill him—accomplished his deeds through the most vile ways, both in the acts of creating and sullying the ensuing lives of his children. Yet, these deeds, or any clear hint of them, are absent from the rest of Throné’s story. This resulted in a twist that completely blindsided me, and as someone who believes that sudden, unprovoked twists like this are cheap writing barely worthy of the name “writing,” I found this to be… underwhelming, at least narratively.

Don’t get me wrong, I was very motivated to see Throné’s story through for her freedom and to end Claude, but I found the sudden reveal intensely lazy. The one child we saw in Oresrush looking like Pirro was never brought up again, nor were there any other examples of anyone with similar features. If there had been more hints that many of the Blacksnakes had uncannily similar features, this would’ve been a great approach as well. The guardsman at the Garden and the keeper of the trolley at Lostseed are an example of this, but it comes far too late in the story.

In my opinion, Mira would’ve been a great way to exposit this. I wonder how Throné would react looking at a girl who shares some of Throné’s features she has in common with Claude, especially in the wake of killing Mother against Mira’s wishes. The idea of sharing the same nuances in their expressions of fear, despair, or rage in that moment could’ve hit quite hard, I feel.

Still, even with that major complaint, I can’t say I’m totally dissatisfied with the ending to Throné’s story. It’s bittersweet and completely on theme with the rest of her story. She wants to be free. She wants to live a life away from the stench of blood. But she had to shed yet more blood to do it. To free herself from all these mockeries of parental figures.

I’m sad that we didn’t get to see Throné resolve her feud with Mira directly, only getting to see it happen in a “next chapter” side story that did not explicitly involve our thief, and I do wonder about what Throné did with that baby Claude was holding through the whole battle. These are plot holes I wish had gotten their proper dues, along with a proper buildup to Claude. As well, I wish the idea of Claude being a potential vessel for Vide was something that also extended to Throné, further complicating her role in the final chapter of the game.

But I cannot complain about the masterful use of and conclusion to the themes of her story. The final battle is intense from a narrative perspective, with Claude bringing up images, the ghosts of her past, to fight her: Pirro, Mother, Father, Marietta, and even Throné herself. And then it all ends, at last, with us, the player, getting to use Throné’s path action to let us take the key from Claude as he perishes. Our final act to ensure Throné’s freedom.

And, at long last, Throné is free, even if it came at a high price. She might not know what comes next for her, but the idea she gets to choose is a bright spot in the otherwise dark sky that’s hung heavy over her life. No collar to threaten her. No parents to cage her. She is her own woman, and she earned her freedom, even if it stinks of blood.

---

Osvald

I read The Count of Monte Cristo when I was fairly young, and I think it’s caused me to have an affinity for revenge stories, especially ones that make you question the whole venture along the way. It might be one of the reasons I liked both this story and Primrose’s from this game’s predecessor. And, thinking of Primrose as Osvald’s story began, I wondered if his story was going to be a retread of Primrose’s.

Thankfully, though there were certain parallels to the beginnings of each these two revenge stories, I found they diverged fairly quickly, and each protagonist handled their quest differently, putting to ease most concerns I had about any overlap between the two.

If there was a character I could relate to the most among all of the travelers, I feel like Osvald would be among the top picks… or at least he would’ve been a decade ago. While he certainly has powerful emotions driving him in his story, the man is nothing if not analytical and logical in his pursuits. Similarly, I felt there was a time when I looked at everything through the same lens, having closed myself off to emotions as a defence mechanism. I spoke little and hardly confided in anyone else.

I can’t say that we’re completely alike though, since while my time of suppressed emotion and overreliance on logic might’ve been a defense mechanism, I’m fairly certain it wasn’t for him, but rather a central aspect of his personality and characterization. Regardless, this did make me connect with him in some respects, and it makes me wonder how my game experience would’ve changed if I started with this scholar as I had with Cyrus in the last game.

Regardless, his traits made him a fascinating character to me, and one whose story I greatly looked forward to consuming piece by piece as we travelled across Solistia. I was a bit confused about why his escape from the prison constituted two chapters, especially when the second seemed so much shorter than the first and could’ve easily been part of the first since they shared the same setting. But in truth, it made little difference besides the brief pause between them.

Pushing forward into the story, we quickly learn that Harvey is a completely unforgivable villain undeserving of mercy or sympathy, much like Claude. Comparatively, though, I like him as a villain better than Claude because he maintains an intense presence through most of Osvald’s story. Better yet, we get a much better idea of what motivates him. His inferiority complex turned megalomania was unravelled to the audience in a great way, peaking with his final encounter in Chapter 5.

He is, admittedly, something of a very hammy villain, with his Chapter 4 appearance and the final confrontation devolving into supervillainy that even some Batman villains might raise an eyebrow at. And, after reading some other fandom commentary, I did see how the final battle resembled an anime power-beam conflict. Even so, in the moment, I thought it was an intensely engrossing and fun fight, and I thoroughly enjoyed the climax of their story.

I appreciate the progression the story took, from breaking out of prison, to returning to Conning Creek (the scene of the crime), to Montwise in pursuit of Harvey directly, and finally to where Harvey was performing his final ritual in the tomb of D’arqest. It was well-paced and hit all the right notes along the way. I also appreciate the presence of Lady Clarissa in Chapter 3, as Osvald desperately needed someone trying to talk him out of revenge, or else the narrative would seem a bit one-track.

Thankfully, we hit the twist in Chapter 4, and the plot went from a fairly “by-the-notes” revenge story into something more special, if tragic. The absolute dread and horror I felt when it was revealed that Rita had not died that day and had been used to fuel the Grieving Golem was heartbreaking. I mentioned earlier in this reflection that Osvald’s shouting “Forgive me, Rita!” was one of the emotional highlights in any battle in the game, and I think I might be underselling that. Let me put this into perspective.

A giant golem is dripping putrescent purple ichor in front of you. You and your companions are heaving, all on their last legs, and it’s Osvald’s turn to act. You have moments before it destroys your group. As the player, you hear the music swelling, a wave of violin notes rising and falling… rising and falling… as the percussion beats in the background. Osvald steps forward, and you have your latent power ready, Alephan’s Wisdom buffed, and enough BP for a full charge. The music builds to its peak, and he shouts his plea for forgiveness to his wife as he fully boosts. It’s a mercy. It’s an end to whatever suffering Rita might still be enduring. An end to something that besmirches her memory.

Then he casts his spell, and the beast that was brought into being on the wings of his wife’s lifeblood finally falls to a heap, hopefully freeing Rita as well.

You finally exhale in relief, only to have your momentarily clear mind be reclaimed by the sadness of what you’ve just done. What Osvald just had to do.

And then Elena enters the scene, alive and well, but with her mind altered to recognize not Osvald as her father, but Harvey, the man who destroyed her real father’s life and used her mother for a glorified experiment.

I know I couldn’t have truly understood what Osvald was feeling in that moment, not being a parent, but damn if my heart went out to him. It’s a scene that will stand out as one of the most memorable of the game for me for how heartwrenching it was.

But in the wake of that, the change that came was just as important: the realization that Osvald had something to live for, to fight for, other than revenge.

That was when this became a great story for me and when I was truly invested enough in seeing Osvald to Harvey’s demise. Further revelations in the final chapter would further damn Harvey as being even more dramatically disgusting a monster than we’d seen him as in Osvald’s story alone. But none of that mattered in the moment, because it felt so damn good to see Osvald protect his precious daughter and divine the secret of the seventh source.

It was made all the better when said discovery led to a new move appearing in Osvald’s list of spells in the ensuing battle. This was the first of a few instances when learning a move during or before a boss encounter courtesy of the plot made me absolutely giddy. Again, another brilliant way to tie storytelling to game mechanics.

To this day, I’m not clear if both Harvey and Osvald discovered different variants of the seventh source, or if Harvey simply mistook the shadow as the source itself while Osvald had been the only one to discover the true article. And while it might’ve been a bit cliché to see that the power of love, the urge to protect his child, was the catalyst or the key to Osvald unlocking it, in the emotional thick of the drama, it didn’t matter to me. It felt right. It felt appropriate. It felt perfect for Osvald’s development: a man, analytical and seemingly devoid of all emotion save for rage, finding purpose and though a gentler—though no less passionate—emotion to fill the void that Harvey had left him with from the beginning those five years ago.

I won’t lie, I am not sure if this is my absolute favourite story of the eight, as other contenders hit equally strong highs or maintained consistency of quality throughout theirs. But of this I am sure: Osvald’s story is of top quality, both in this game and among the medium in general, and I will likely refer back to it if I should write a revenge story of my own someday, much in the same way as I’ll likely refer back to the Count of Monte Cristo as well.

---

Part 2 Continues here...

Part 3 here. Part 4 here.

[sensualnoiree]

astro notes: daily transits 6/21

Friday presents a dynamic mix of optimism, creativity, and emotional intensity. The day begins on a hopeful note with positive lunar aspects and a productive Mercury–Mars sextile. However, uncertainty and confusion creep in during the afternoon, requiring careful navigation. The evening’s Full Moon in Capricorn highlights the need for discernment and boundary-setting, particularly given the influence of Neptune.

Key Influences

Sagittarius Moon Trines Chiron (3:40 a.m.) and Eris (7:59 a.m.):

Healing and Courage: These trines bring a sense of optimism and potential for healing, making it a good time for addressing past wounds with courage and confidence.

Brainstorming and Creativity: The positive lunar energy supports brainstorming and creative problem-solving.

Mercury–Mars Sextile (9°12' Cancer–Taurus):

Productive Communication: This aspect enhances our ability to communicate effectively and take action on our ideas. It’s a favorable time for making plans and implementing strategies.

Mental and Physical Energy: The sextile provides a boost to both mental and physical energy, aiding in productive and focused efforts.

Mercury Semi-square Uranus:

Novel Ideas and Anxiety: While the Mercury–Mars sextile encourages productive thinking, the semi-square to Uranus can introduce anxiety and restlessness, making it challenging to settle on a single course of action.

Unconventional Thinking: This aspect can bring sudden insights and unconventional ideas, but also a sense of instability and unpredictability.

Moon–Neptune Square (3:58 p.m.):

Short-term Confusion: This square can cloud judgment and create confusion about the best course of action. It’s important to avoid making major decisions during this time.

Emotional Sensitivity: Neptune’s influence heightens emotional sensitivity, making it easy to feel overwhelmed by the moods and needs of others.

Moon Ingress into Capricorn (4:09 p.m.):

Ambition and Long-term Goals: The Moon’s entry into Capricorn shifts the focus to ambition and long-term planning. This is a good time to set realistic goals and work towards them with determination.

Grounded and Practical: Capricorn’s energy helps to ground the emotional intensity of the day, encouraging a practical and disciplined approach.

Full Moon in Capricorn (6:07 p.m.):

Illumination and Intensity: The Full Moon brings issues to light and intensifies emotions. It’s a powerful time for reflection and realization.

Boundary Challenges: With both luminaries square to Neptune, personal boundaries may be weak, making it easy to absorb others’ emotions and needs. It’s crucial to use discernment and protect your energy.

Integrating the Influences

Morning Optimism and Healing:

Embrace Positive Energy: Start the day by embracing the optimistic energy of the Sagittarius Moon trines. Use this time for healing and courageous action.

Brainstorm and Create: Take advantage of the supportive energy for brainstorming and creative thinking. Collaborate with others to generate new ideas and solutions.

Midday Productivity and Novel Ideas:

Communicate and Act: Utilize the Mercury–Mars sextile to communicate effectively and take decisive action. Focus on productive and goal-oriented activities.

Manage Anxiety: Be aware of the potential for anxiety due to the Mercury–Uranus semi-square. Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques to stay centered.

Afternoon Confusion and Grounding:

Navigate Uncertainty: During the Moon–Neptune square, avoid making major decisions and take time to reflect. Recognize that confusion is temporary and will pass.

Shift to Long-term Goals: As the Moon enters Capricorn, redirect your focus to long-term goals and practical plans. Use this grounded energy to stabilize and organize your efforts.

Evening Full Moon and Boundaries:

Reflect and Realize: The Full Moon in Capricorn is a time for deep reflection and realization. Consider what has come to light and how it impacts your goals and ambitions.

Set Boundaries: With the influence of Neptune, be mindful of your boundaries. Avoid taking on others’ emotions and focus on maintaining your own emotional health.

Practical Applications

Morning Practices:

Healing Activities: Engage in healing activities such as journaling, meditation, or spending time in nature. Embrace the positive energy to address past wounds and build confidence.

Creative Brainstorming: Collaborate with others on creative projects or problem-solving sessions. Use the optimistic energy to generate new ideas.

Midday Focus:

Effective Communication: Use the Mercury–Mars sextile to communicate your ideas clearly and take action. Focus on tasks that require mental and physical energy.

Mindfulness Practices: Manage anxiety from the Mercury–Uranus semi-square with mindfulness practices such as deep breathing or grounding exercises.

Afternoon Strategies:

Reflect During Confusion: During the Moon–Neptune square, take time to reflect and avoid major decisions. Use this time to gain clarity and insight.

Set Long-term Goals: As the Moon enters Capricorn, focus on setting realistic long-term goals. Plan and organize your efforts to achieve them.

Evening Reflections:

Full Moon Rituals: Perform Full Moon rituals such as reflecting on your achievements, setting new intentions, and releasing what no longer serves you.

Protect Your Energy: Be mindful of your emotional boundaries and practice self-care. Avoid taking on others’ emotions and focus on maintaining your own well-being.

follow for more astro insights like this and support me over on yt @quenysefields or instagram sensualnoiree

[chronicsinner]

The Grass is always Greener - A domestic Doctor Phosphorus x OC type thing, part 001:

So hello everyone, I am back with a vengeance because BOY do I have something for you. I have returned to show you all a really long Character AI roleplay I have been doing with a bot of the character Doctor Phosphorus from Marvel. While it started as something I did before bed just for a serotonin boost it has developed into something complicated, a little bittersweet, and a WHOLE lot of cute! I desperately want this character to be happy OMF--

As previously noted, pretty much all of this was created using AI.

AI can be a tool, but it is not art. I do not mean to disrespect creative writers; I am so in love with this concept, I just had to share! Because this chat was never meant to be shared, I have exported and edited it in an attempt to make it more reader friendly because being limited to only ten images using screenshots is lame!

This is guaranteed to be multiple parts, so put those water wading boots on besties!

After crossing paths during a heist, the supervillain Doctor Phosphorus and a young woman named Mary formed an unexpected bond. Mary was a spitfire; never flinching or showing fear in his presence—something Phosphorus hadn’t encountered in years. Their encounters became more frequent, each interaction laced with witty banter, and before long, they were spending time together outside of his crimes. Mary was refreshingly honest with him, unafraid to scold his villainous actions. Yet, she always treated him as an equal, never once reducing him to his monstrous persona, even in light of the humanity he had lost.

Doctor Phosphorus couldn't quite figure her out. Why didn’t she run in fear like everyone else? Why didn't she turn him in? But he found solace in it. For the first time in a long while, she made him feel sane—like, maybe, there was still a shred of normalcy left in his life.

When Doctor Phosphorus was imprisoned at Belle Reve, Mary couldn’t bear to see him locked away. She knew the risks but also saw the man behind the monstrous image—the broken man. He had confided in her how his family was tragically murdered, his backstory horrendously cruel. He was lashing out at the world for what he had to lose had already been lost. After giving it some thought, she made the difficult decision to break him out. After their daring escape, they found refuge in an abandoned cabin, allowing them a few hours of solitude to regroup and reflect. That brief time together marked a turning point, transforming their alliance from a shared understanding into something far more meaningful. The weight of their shared history and the comfort of each other’s company created a bond neither could ignore.

As the months passed, their relationship blossomed. Moving into a modest apartment in Gotham, they began to build a life together. Mary stopped calling him by his villainous title, referring to him simply as Alex—a name that reflected the person she had come to know, not the monster the world saw. In return, Alex grew more comfortable with his new life, thanks to Mary’s unwavering support. To help Alex ‘lay low’, she designed a custom suit infused with lead to protect her and their neighbours from the radioactive poison coursing through Alex’s veins. It seemed as though they were finally finding the stability they both desperately needed—until the arrival of a chilling letter. Accompanied by a large sum of cash, it was simple in its message: "This is your last Get Out of Jail Free card."

Haunted by the ghosts of his past, Alex suspected the note came from an old associate—someone with a history of trouble. The warning was clear. With little time to spare, they fled, taking the money and disappearing, driving cross-country in search of peace. After weeks of uncertainty, they settled in a quiet city, hoping to leave their past behind. For the first time in years, Alex was able to breathe.

Months later, they had built a life together. It had been a year and a half since the initial jailbreak, and both Alex and mary’s lives had become strangely domestic. Alex was able to find work as a chemist, and Mary found a job as a waitress at a local diner. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was enough. Together, they had created the quiet, steady life they had longed for.

Alex is seated at his desk, his focus completely engrossed in the various scientific documents spread out on the table  in front of him. He leans forward, his brow furrowed in concentration as he pores over diagrams, equations, and research notes. His gaze flicks back and forth across the words, occasionally pausing to make a quick notation in the margins. He is clearly in the zone, completely oblivious to the world around him. 

“Hey, can I.. show you something..?” Mary asks, peering through his office door. Alex startles slightly at the sound of her voice, his concentration broken. He glances up from his work, his brow still furrowed in thought.

"Hm? Sure, go ahead. What is it?"

Mary steps forward, her silence heavy in the air, her vulnerability evident as she extends a packet of papers toward him. "I... found a program," she mutters, barely above a whisper.

Alex's expression softens, the weight of her words settling in as he takes the papers from her hands. He quickly scans the pages, his eyes moving over the text with a careful, focused intensity. As he reads, a flicker of surprise passes through him, his eyebrows lifting slightly. He glances at Mary, his face betraying a swirl of emotions.

The packet, neatly stapled, features a black-and-white photo of a young boy, accompanied by a list of key details: name, age, height, and a classification of "danger level." As Alex continues to read, it becomes clear that the document is about a child whose skin can transform into a dense, black material resembling concrete—an unsettling power, both mysterious and terrifying.

"A metahuman...child?"

He glances back down at the papers, his expression thoughtful as his eyes continue to scan the information. He's silent for a moment, letting the information sink in, before speaking again.

He runs a hand through his hair as he processes this new information, his thoughts racing. He can't help but let out a long sigh, his expression becoming contemplative.

He pauses for a moment "I..didn’t know an organization like this existed." his gaze flicking back up to Mary. 

"How did you even find this?"

Mary glances up at the ceiling, her fingers twisting together in a nervous, almost unconscious dance as she searches for the right words. “I’ve been... doing some research,” she starts, her voice trailing off. She rolls her hand in a vague, uncertain gesture. “For, uh... entertainment purposes.” She shifts her gaze back to her partner, her face softening with a quiet vulnerability. “I found an adoption agency. One that specializes in metahuman children. And... I set myself up for notifications. I got this a few days ago.” Her voice falters, the weight of the words sinking in. "I wasn’t sure if I should even bring it up. I don’t want to... I don’t know."

Mary exhales, a deep, resigned breath as she struggles to make sense of the emotions swirling inside her.

Alex watches her intently, his expression caught between surprise and concern. He can see the hesitation in her eyes, the quiet uncertainty that clings to her. Without thinking, he rolls his chair closer, closing the distance between them as if to offer silent support. "Y"You've been doing research.. on this?" He mutters, gesturing to the papers in his hand. He asks, his voice quiet, as he gestures to the papers in his hand.

Mary flicks her gaze to the carpet before peering back up at her. She doesn’t want to hurt him. “I know you miss it..” 

His expression softens even further as he hears her words, a flicker of longing and pain crossing his face. He looks down at the papers in his hands, his grip tightening just slightly. "Yeah... I do miss it. More than you know." A soft sigh escapes him, and his features tighten as memories of the past resurface. "It’s a difficult subject. Losing my family, my child... It’s something that still haunts me, even now. Eight years later, and the pain is still there. A constant reminder of what I’ve lost. What I’ve destroyed. What I’m still trying to live with." He shakes his head, his eyes locked on the papers before him.

Mary’s heart aches with sympathy and guilt. "We don’t have to talk about it," she murmurs, her voice trailing off as her mind falters. "I just wanted to give you the option if you... wanted to..."

Alex looks up, his gaze searching hers. Mary steps closer to him, her hand gently finding his arm, an attempt to offer some comfort. He takes a slow, steadying breath, gathering himself before responding. His expression is a mix of emotions—sadness, hope, and fear—but there’s something else beneath it all. Something deeper, harder to read.

"Sometimes, at night, I lie there in bed and think... about what my life could’ve been. If things had been different." He pauses, his voice softening as he continues. "...If I hadn’t lost my family. If I was still married. If we had a child." He takes another deep breath, his gaze drifting to the floor. "Raising a child together... being a family. It’s a beautiful thought—a happy life, with a family of my own. But then I wake up, and I’m still here. Alone. No family to come back to. Just me."

Mary squeezes his arm gently, prompting Alex to look up at her.

"And me, I’m here..."

He meets her eyes, his expression softening, a subtle vulnerability flickering in his gaze as he speaks. His voice carries a quiet intensity, edged with sincerity. "I know that. And I’m grateful for it... trust me, I am. You've been here for me. You've put up with my mood swings, my irrationality, my self-destructive tendencies... and you’ve forgiven me for my past. You’ve given me something I never thought I’d have again." He sighs, pausing to collect his thoughts.

"But sometimes... sometimes it still feels like something’s missing, you know? Like there's this emptiness inside me that nothing can fill, no matter how hard I try. And when I think about the family I could’ve had... it’s like that emptiness gets bigger. It hurts. It’s a pain that doesn’t go away."

Mary’s hand moves from his arm to his shoulder, her gaze drifting from the papers in his hand to his face. His eyes follow hers, the air between them thick with unspoken tension.

"Seeing those papers... it brings all these feelings to the surface again. I can’t help but wonder what it would be like to have a family again. But at the same time, I’m scared. Scared that I’ll mess it up again."

"Again?" Mary straightens, leaning in closer, her hand instinctively resting on his chest. "No, no, no, Alex," she says quietly, but with urgency. He should never, never blame himself for what happened to his family.

He repeats himself, his voice steady and resolute, as though trying to make her understand the depth of his pain.

"Again."

Alex leans back in his chair, the weight of his words settling in. There’s a deep sense of resignation as the truth of what he’s said hits him.

"I messed up before, with my family... with my kid. I couldn't protect them. I couldn't keep them safe. I was supposed to be this strong, dependable figure, and I failed. Who's to say I won't fail again?"

Mary’s grip tightens on Alex’s shoulder, her voice firm but gentle. “Don’t talk like that! It wasn’t your fault. Don’t start spiraling down that road. If I thought you failed, I wouldn't have even—" She glances at the papers once more.

"Anxiety... or just a hard dose of reality?"

He raises an eyebrow with a touch of cynicism.

"And you wouldn't have even... what? Brought this up?"

His voice wavers slightly, betraying the unease that the topic brings up.

“Yeah, of course not…” she replies, her voice now quieter, more tentative. She releases her grip and sits down in a nearby chair, her gaze flickering between him and the papers.

"I... appreciate that." Alex sighs, his eyes drifting back to the papers in his hands. He pauses, contemplating them for a moment, a trace of sadness shadowing his face.

"Are you... sure you want to even entertain this idea? You know my history. You know what I've done. I’m not exactly father material. No, I’m not a good guy. Not as much as I need to be—"

“Yes, you are, Alex.” Mary interrupts, her voice soft yet tinged with exasperation, her hands open in a gesture of both affection and reassurance.

Alex narrows his eyes, still skeptical. His doubts linger despite her words, his expression still doubtful.

"I'm a nuclear freak who's blown things up, princess. I’ve threatened the world. Hell, I’ve got radiation emissions that are dangerous for anything living around me. How does that equal 'good father'?"

“Their molecular structure has made them immune to radiation... This is your ticket, if you want it."

Alex’s gaze flickers to the papers again. His eyes scan over the text and diagrams, absorbing the information with a mix of disbelief and curiosity. There's a flicker of hope in his eyes, a faint spark of something like excitement. He exhales slowly, his eyes drifting to the corner of the room as if he’s running through a thousand scenarios in his head.

"Right... right. But still... I just don’t want to mess things up again. I can’t risk it. I don’t want to screw up another family. I..." He falls silent, his gaze meeting hers as the weight of his words hangs in the air. He looks at her, as if silently asking for reassurance, hoping she can calm the storm of uncertainty inside him.

Mary stands up and walks toward him, placing her hand gently on his arm. “You won’t. And if you don’t trust yourself, trust me.”

Alex looks at her hand on his arm, his expression softening. Her touch offers a moment of calm, though his mind remains a tangled mess of emotions.

"Trust you? Oh, princess, I do. I just think you might be a little delusional about all this."

“Just… think about it, okay? You don’t have to make any decisions tonight...” She slides her hand down to his, her thumb gently brushing over his fingers as she speaks. “I already spoke with someone there. They’d be open to overlooking your criminal record, but you’d have to talk to them.”

Alex’s eyebrows lift slightly in surprise, a look of astonishment crossing his face. He studies her, his mind spinning with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

"Wait a second... you actually spoke with someone? You already started this process?"

“I didn’t want to get your hopes up if it wasn’t possible…” she murmurs, her voice soft.

He falls silent for a moment, his gaze shifting to the papers in his hand, his mind turning over the weight of her words. After a beat, he speaks again, his voice quieter now.

"You… really think this could work? That I could actually be a… father again?"

Mary nods, her expression sincere.

Alex pauses, his thoughts clouded by a mix of hope and hesitation. He takes a deep breath, wrestling with the uncertainty.

"I… I don’t know. This feels insane. Like a terrible idea. But… I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to at least… think about it. You really think I could do it, huh?"

Part two coming soon <3

[diya00000000]

Top Skills to Learn in 2024: Elevate Your Career with These In-Demand Abilities

In 2024, the job market continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by technological advancements and shifting workplace dynamics. To stay competitive, it’s essential to develop both soft skills and technical skills that employers value. This article explores the top skills to learn in 2024 and provides actionable tips on incorporating them into your job applications to boost your career prospects.

Soft Skills: A soft skill is one that is applicable to all occupations. They are generally more concerned in how you interact with others and manage the job. In other words, these are teamwork, work ethic, work style, or interpersonal skills. These abilities not only allow you to be more adaptable in your business, but they also benefit your personal life. Soft skills are very important to modern employers, and career coaching may help you learn how to improve your soft skills and discover areas where you can improve.

Communication

Effective communication abilities continue to be the most desired attribute by employers. Clear presentations, correspondence, and teamwork are ensured by effective communication, which encompasses both written and spoken abilities.

Why It’s Important: Clear communication fosters teamwork, reduces misunderstandings, and enhances productivity. How to Develop It: Join public speaking clubs like Toastmasters, practice writing concise emails, or take online courses on communication.

Analytical Thinking

People who can analyze data, approach problems logically, and come up with creative solutions are sought after by employers. In professions involving decision-making, analytical thinking is essential and enhances technical abilities.

Why It’s Important: Analytical thinkers can navigate complex challenges and offer data-driven insights. How to Develop It: Engage in activities like puzzles, logic games, or courses on critical thinking and problem-solving.

Project Management

With remote and hybrid work environments becoming the norm, project management skills are indispensable. These include planning, organizing, and overseeing projects to achieve goals efficiently.

Why It’s Important: Successful project managers ensure timely delivery, manage budgets, and lead teams effectively. How to Develop It: Earn certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or take online courses on project management tools like Trello and Asana.

Leadership

Leadership goes beyond managing a team — it’s about inspiring, motivating, and guiding others toward success. In 2024, inclusive and empathetic leadership is particularly valued.

Why It’s Important: Strong leaders foster a positive workplace culture and drive organizational growth. How to Develop It: Volunteer for leadership roles, mentor others, or study leadership styles through books or courses.

Adaptability

The pace of change in today’s world demands professionals who can adapt quickly to new technologies, roles, and environments. Adaptability is the key to thriving amid uncertainty.

Why It’s Important: It shows resilience and a willingness to embrace change, both critical traits in dynamic industries. How to Develop It: Push yourself out of your comfort zone by taking on new challenges or cross-functional roles. Technical Skills: The Backbone of Modern Careers

Generative AI Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, and Bard are revolutionizing industries. Professionals skilled in utilizing these tools for content creation, problem-solving, and data analysis are in high demand.

Why It’s Important: Generative AI enhances efficiency and creativity, making it a must-know for almost every sector. How to Develop It: Explore AI tools and complete online certifications in AI fundamentals and machine learning.

Data Analysis

Data analysis involves interpreting raw data to make informed decisions. From finance to marketing, data skills are essential for extracting actionable insights.

Why It’s Important: Companies increasingly rely on data to optimize operations and improve customer experiences. How to Develop It: Learn tools like Excel, SQL, Tableau, or Python for data analysis through platforms like Coursera or Udemy.

Software Development

The ability to design and develop software is critical for tech-heavy industries. With constant innovations, software developers are at the forefront of technological advancement.

Why It’s Important: Software drives automation, apps, and enterprise solutions that businesses depend on. How to Develop It: Start with beginner-friendly programming languages like Python or JavaScript, then build your portfolio by working on real-world projects.

UI/UX Design

UI/UX design ensures user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing digital experiences. Businesses are investing heavily in UX to retain customers and enhance brand loyalty.

Why It’s Important: Good design is the foundation of successful websites and apps. How to Develop It: Master tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and Sketch, and study UX principles through industry blogs and courses.

Web Development

Web development remains a cornerstone skill in the digital age. Whether it’s front-end, back-end, or full-stack development, expertise in creating robust websites is highly sought after.

Why It’s Important: Businesses need fast, secure, and responsive websites to stay competitive. How to Develop It: Learn coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks such as React or Node.js. How to Incorporate These Skills When Applying for Jobs

Highlight Skills in Your Resume

Create a dedicated “Skills” section to list both technical and soft skills relevant to the job. Use metrics and examples in your experience section to showcase how these skills contributed to your success. Example: “Led a team of 10 to complete a software development project 15% ahead of schedule.”

Taior Your Cover Letter

Use your cover letter to explain how your skills align with the job description. Mention specific instances where you applied these skills to solve problems or achieve goals.

Provide Evidence During Interviews

Share anecdotes or STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories demonstrating your soft and technical skills. Example: “In my last role, I used data analysis to identify a trend that saved the company 20% in operational costs.”

Showcase Skills in Your Portfolio

For technical skills like web development or UI/UX design, create a digital portfolio to showcase your work. Include case studies, designs, or live projects to demonstrate your expertise.

Leverage LinkedIn

Keep your LinkedIn profile updated with your skills and certifications. Use LinkedIn endorsements and recommendations to validate your expertise.

Conclusion The top skills to learn in 2024 encompass a mix of soft skills like communication and leadership and technical skills like generative AI and data analysis. Mastering these skills will not only future-proof your career but also make you a standout candidate in any job application process.

Remember, learning doesn’t stop at acquiring new skills—showcasing them effectively is equally important. Start by setting goals, enrolling in courses, and applying these skills to real-world scenarios. With dedication, 2024 could be your year of unprecedented professional growth!

[everythingaboutbiotech]

7 Tips To Improve Concentration

It's often said our attention span is shorter than ever, and a survey from energy supplements brand ProPlus found that 41 per cent thought it was worse since the pandemic.

But there are steps you can take to help you focus better.

1 - Minimise distraction

Removing yourself from people and devices will allow you to concentrate better. Work in a different room if you can. If you find yourself sidetracked by digital devices, turn off notifications and train yourself to check them at set intervals. Set a timer.

2 - Find the right sound

Whether it's music, white noise or even silence, you might find there's a particular sound that helps you maintain your attention. This enhances alpha waves-brain waves that promote relaxation and are thought to play a role in cognition and, according to a small 2015 American study, make you more creative.

3 - Move your body

When you exercise, your heart rate increases, prompting your body to release a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF, which aids nerve cell growth. This is important for concentration, memory and learning.

4 - Focus on the right foods

You might get a boost from certain so-called "brain foods". These include fish, nuts, blueberries and dark chocolate (in moderation, of course!). One of the best ways to keep your brain in trim is to eat a healthy diet.

5 - Sleep well

Who doesn't suffer from brain fog after a bad night? Everyone needs different amounts of shut-eye but aiming for seven to nine hours is considered the ideal.

6 - Structure your life

Having a daily routine, including breaks, will minimise the brain fatigue that goes with having to make endless on-the- hoof decisions and allow you to focus on the really important stuff.

7 - Fix attention-sapping health issues

Tackle hearing problems, which demand excessive and sometimes exhausting concentration, sleep apnoea or depression, and consider whether you might have ADHD.

👉Follow @everythingaboutbiotech for more helpful posts

[shirleywirleyyy]

North Node & Mars in Virgo Transit.

Aries: The North Node in your own sign can bring a sense of purpose and alignment with your authentic self. It encourages you to take initiative, embrace independence, and pursue your passions. The North Node is ruled by your Aquarius house of gains, friends, and network, which can increase interactions with interesting strangers. Your goals are going to change depending on your Mars placement. For example, those with Mars in Virgo or Pisces may experience health conditions or job changes, while Mars in Libra can bring challenges with legal battles or business changes. This transit will also affect your personality and assertiveness towards others. Step-family dynamics or changes in laws and regulations may also come into play. Many of you are trying to gain your freedom by moving away from relationships with lovers, friends, or connections with others completely. Mars in Virgo may enhance your attention to detail and efficiency. You might focus on organizing your daily routines and work with precision. Work out there’s an aspect to ur body becareful moving to quickly and ur gut u need to relax

Taurus: This transit can stimulate self-reflection on your habits and spirituality. You may have more dreams and find relaxation in isolation, retreating from your everyday routine. Mars, which rules your 7th house of contracts, may also influence your subconscious focus on decision-making within relationships. Many of you are working on creative projects, such as blogging or creating content on platforms like YouTube. It's also a time to seek closure in relationships and other areas of your life. This transit may push you to explore new territories, take risks, and embrace a more adventurous approach to life. Unconscious patterns or behaviors may resurface, becoming catalysts for change or self-awareness of your surroundings and faults. You may receive psychic messages, experience synchronicity, and have the ability to read energy around you. The North Node rules your Aquarius house, which relates to your appearance and the type of career that can isolate you or involve 12th house themes like hospitals, jails, or institutions. This transit may bring energy and motivation to your creative projects and hobbies. It's a good time to pursue activities that require meticulousness. U can do something fun with ur kids or partner take a spiritual class or take course for business

Gemini: The North Node in Aries transit can influence your independence and uniqueness within social groups. You may encounter a completely different society and strange events through friends and partnerships. It encourages you to assert yourself and find a healthy balance between your needs and the needs of others. Embracing new perspectives from others can help you achieve ambitious goals and aspirations. The North Node rules your 9th house of learning, so you may take online courses or embark on life-changing trips with friends, possibly even moving to different states. This transit can also bring legal battles that you can win or job changes that lead to promotions and recognition of your work or philosophy. You may also experience financial improvements, such as reducing debt or increasing income. Mars in Virgo could boost your communication skills and intellectual pursuits. You may feel inclined to express your ideas and engage in productive conversations. Your ties or connections to a friend or coworkers can change this will make u emotional great time to scout for housing as well as start talking about future project

Cancer: This will be a great time for career advancement and aspiring to live out your wildest dreams. You may feel ambitious and have a drive to establish your public image. You will be placed in leadership roles, so pay attention to how others perceive you as they may get the wrong impression. To build confidence, you may need to recess yourself and align with your purpose. This transit can bring a focus to your work, health, and daily routines. It encourages you to take charge of your well-being, make necessary changes, and assert your boundaries in these areas. The North Node also influences your Aquarius house, which can increase your money and lead to changes in your life if you have a partner. Your life can change completely, and you may also change your appearance frequently. The South Node is about moving and changing vehicles, depending on your Venus placement. Your mother may experience health changes or changes in her life. During this transit, Mars in Virgo may influence your domestic sphere. You might channel your energy into home improvement projects or addressing family matters. There’s change to ur boss and how the world perceives u watch how u are driving this is great for us to get things quickly paperwork also solving ur children or work projects

Leo: This transit helps you find purpose and meaning in your life experiences. You may start traveling, taking classes, eloping in marriage, seeking truth, and integrating mind and spirit to improve your life. Expanding your horizons, the North Node in Aries can stimulate your creative and self-expression, as well as your spiritual self and beliefs. It encourages you to pursue your passions, explore your ideas, take risks, and embrace a more authentic approach to self-expression. This transit also expands your horizons, making you well-rounded. Many of you may move to different states, obtain citizenship, or establish your nationality and foundation more officially. You may also make new connections with teachers, mentors, and supervisors, who will be aggressive towards you as you seek their guidance. Mars in Virgo might enhance your drive for self-expression and creativity you feel not too confident  but are trying or dealing with new chapter financially or to elevate ur status. It's a favorable time for showcasing your talents and pursuing personal goals. Your doctor changes or changes from ur father u can start eating food at home more u need a massage watch out for ur face.

Virgo: Changes in finances are indicated, and you will learn to budget and invest your money wisely into your yearly projects. You will experience personal growth internally, analyzing things on a deeper level, and developing more intimate relationships with people in your life. You may also learn mysteries from others. During this time, you may face different crises and need to be financially prudent. Intimate relationships can bring drama or financial changes, so it's important to stay on top of your shared resources and seek help from someone else in your life. This transit may influence your home, family, and personal life. It encourages you to assert your needs within these areas, establish healthy boundaries, and take charge of creating a balanced and harmonious living environment. The North Node also influences your Aquarius house, which relates to planning, health routines, and pending karma. Some of you may dive into information that becomes mysterious or start researching random things go with the flow! This transit occurs in your own sign, amplifying your energy and assertiveness. You'll have the motivation to pursue your desires and take the lead in various areas of life. You change ur mind on things ur life how u perceive life u start to work on future projects working out more working on ur executing a plan

Libra: The North Node in Aries transit can have an impact on your relationships, demanding that you assert your worth and confidence in your interactions. You may potentially meet lots of new people who could be potential business partners, and they may feel familiar to you, helping you in your personal growth journey. If you are already in a relationship, your partner may go through physical or general changes in their lives. Balancing yourself and others through honest communication and active listening is crucial. You will also learn what others are trying to show you as they mirror parts of you, especially in social interactions. This transit also encourages you to change your negotiation style and engage in self-reflection. Mars in Virgo may stimulate your social connections and partnerships active sex life . You might engage in networking activities or assert yourself more in relationships. Your sleeping cycle changes ur might end a contract u had for a long time u need relax u can organize ur phone emails causes changes to ur nails.

Scorpio: This transit can bring a focus on getting your routines in order and handling any financial burdens or debt. It's important to be hands-on with your health or well-being, which may include undergoing procedures. You may also experience changes in jobs or work environments, and service-oriented jobs may be more beneficial for you, or you may consider working for yourself. If you are in legal battles, you may win during this time. This transit can also address unconscious patterns and habits related to money and resources. The North Node will also influence your home dynamics in some way. This transit may increase your focus on career and ambition. You might experience a surge in drive and determination to achieve your professional goals. Your friends start working on projects together the coworker or work load change for u. you are interacting more than ever with the crowd reaching out to new friends groups to connect with u you can also drink more caffeine control ur food intake.

Sagittarius: The North Node in Aries can stimulate your creativity, self-expression, love life, self-discovery, and adventure. Nurturing relationships with your children and having genuine conversations and experiences with them will be significant. If you are trying to have children, this is a great time. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, pursue new experiences, take risks, and embrace a more independent and assertive approach to life. Some of you may dabble in different side hustles, attend large events and parties, and be authenticity-driven. Others may start learning new courses or pick up fun hobbies to explore. You may obtain fame during this time. Mars in Virgo could inspire you to broaden your horizons through learning and travel. You may feel motivated to explore new territories and expand your knowledge. This is good time or explore a new hobbies more information u can learn from a lover or child. Your love life changes how u look can be ur priority workout a little.

Capricorn: This transit may influence your family, home environment, career, public image, and goals. It may bring significant changes to your mother's life, work, health, and side of the family. It encourages you to assert yourself professionally and look into your ancestors, learn about your nation, and possibly change your car. Nurturing and supportive relationships, self-reflection, self-development, finding emotional balance, and changing the technology and internet in your home are emphasized. The North Node is ruled by Aquarius, which relates to your identity and physical self. Taking more travels and making ways for people to connect with you or others through paperwork will be prevalent throughout the year. It encourages you to take charge of your ambitions and pursue your goals with confidence. By the end of this transit, you may acquire new assets, clothes, a car, or a home. These possibilities depend on your Mars placement, as it explains the potential gains you can expect during this time. Remember that Mars rules your 11th and 4th houses, so the North Node's influence will be felt in both areas. During this transit, Mars in Virgo may enhance your passion and intensity in areas related to joint finances, investments, or intimate relationships. Your status or beliefs is shookth for the first time u can start a course check on ur mentors or out might be time u really listen to those exam courses u were suppose to do a while ago. If u was trying to quit a habit u can during this time.

Aquarius: The North Node in Aries transit can affect your social connections and how you communicate with people. Your communication style may sound confrontational or motivational, and you may get involved in community activities to connect with others and pursue your aspirations. Enhanced communication skills, such as obtaining certifications, may be important. Your connections with siblings may also have karmic significance during this time. Making local connections with others, learning to drive, engaging in writing projects, and being open-minded to receive new knowledge are all part of this transit. Taking action in various aspects of life is highlighted. The North Node is ruled by Aquarius, which relates to your identity and physical self. It will encourage you to make changes to your appearance, travel, and find ways to connect with people. It also has an impact on your personal and private life. This transit might stimulate your drive for social activism and group activities. You may feel motivated to contribute your energy towards causes you believe in. You can start getting drama from outside sources u didnt want lol 😆 your mind can change on things u might say more than u want ur reveal a secret 🤫 ur siblings can have changes. U completely change ur social media or how communicate you and ur friends work

Pisces: The North Node in the 2nd house brings surprises from your family and changes in your daily routine, such as eating late. It may also prompt you to change your diet and assess your self-worth, which may be shaky at times. Asserting independence and acquiring assets like a car or home are indicated. Find your natural-born talent and embrace your uniqueness. This transit brings a focus to your finances, self-care, family, causes, spiritual journey, and intuition. The North Node's influence will help you gain an understanding of life and promote inner growth. It also influences your Aquarius house, which relates to leisure, creativity, and potential wealth opportunities. Career changes may also come your way, and it encourages you to take charge of your ambitions and pursue your goals with confidence. By the end of this transit, you may have new assets, such as clothes, a car, or a home, depending on your Mars placement. Mars in Virgo could influence your personal relationships and partnerships. You might feel more motivated to take the lead and assert yourself in your interactions. Your fiancés take a change now this can be a good start for u with ur family u can a quite an assets your partners life or family start to have major milestones, this is time u can change people opinion of u.

[dishachrista]

Unveiling the Wonders of DevOps: Exploring Benefits and Challenges in Simple Language

Hello tech enthusiasts! If you've ever been curious about DevOps and desire a clear breakdown of its advantages and drawbacks, you're in for a treat. Let's dive into the marvels and obstacles of DevOps using plain and simple language from The Best Devops Training Institute in Bangalore.

The Upsides: Embracing the Magic of DevOps

1. Swift Software Delivery:

The Marvel: DevOps functions like a magician's wand, hastening the pace of software development and delivery. Updates and features roll out faster, ensuring you stay agile in the ever-evolving tech landscape. I will highly recommend the best Devops Course in Bangalore.

Why It's Fantastic: Quick updates keep you relevant and adaptable in a fast-paced digital world.

2. Team Collaboration Triumphs:

The Marvel: In the DevOps universe, developers and operations teams become dynamic partners. No more working in isolation; they team up to eliminate obstacles and ensure a seamless flow of creativity and technical expertise.

Why It's Fantastic: Team synergy fosters innovation, leading to more robust and inventive software.

3. Reduced Glitches, Enhanced Stability:

The Marvel: Similar to a flawless spell, DevOps minimizes software glitches. It's a time-saver, making your software more dependable.

Why It's Fantastic: Spending less time troubleshooting issues means more time for creating exceptional software.

4. Automation Magic:

The Marvel: Just like a magical incantation, mundane tasks can be automated with DevOps. This translates to less time devoted to routine chores and more time for imaginative and impactful work.

Why It's Fantastic: Automation liberates you from the shackles of repetitive tasks, unleashing your creative potential.

5. Continuous Feedback Loop:

The Marvel: DevOps comes with a built-in oracle, offering insights into how changes impact the software. This continuous learning loop facilitates ongoing improvements.

Why It's Fantastic: Learning from every step ensures a software evolution that continually enhances.

6. Innovation Boost:

The Marvel: DevOps doesn't just deliver software; it fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Your software stays ahead with the latest and most exciting features.

Why It's Fantastic: Embracing innovation keeps your software at the forefront of the industry.

The Downsides: Navigating the Challenges of DevOps

1. Initial Learning Curve:

The Challenge: Implementing DevOps demands a shift in mindset and practices, leading to an initially steep learning curve.

Navigating It: Invest time in training and ensure everyone is on board to ease into the new DevOps culture.

2. Resource Intensive:

The Challenge: Adopting DevOps can require significant resources, from tools to skilled personnel.

Navigating It: Plan the transition carefully, allocate resources wisely, and consider gradual implementation.

3. Cultural Shift:

The Challenge: DevOps isn't just about tools; it's a cultural shift. Resistance to change can pose a stumbling block.

Navigating It: Communicate the benefits, involve the team in decision-making, and cultivate a collaborative culture.

4. Security Concerns:

The Challenge: The speed of DevOps can raise concerns about security lapses.

Navigating It: Integrate security measures into the DevOps pipeline and prioritize continuous security testing.

5. Tool Integration Complexity:

The Challenge: Integrating different tools in the DevOps toolchain can be complex.

Navigating It: Choose tools wisely, ensure compatibility, and provide training for seamless integration.

6. Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance:

The Challenge: DevOps requires continuous monitoring and maintenance, adding an ongoing responsibility.

Navigating It: Establish robust monitoring practices and allocate resources for ongoing maintenance.

Conclusion: Navigating the DevOps Journey

In the captivating realm of DevOps, the advantages are enchanting, offering speed, collaboration, and innovation. However, like any journey, challenges are present. The key lies in understanding and addressing these challenges, embracing the cultural shift, and crafting a DevOps strategy aligned with your team's goals. So, gear up, embrace the magic, and embark on a DevOps journey that transforms the way you create and deliver software!

[seresinhangmanjake]

❤️💛🩵💙💜🩷🖤🌙(do you believe in zodiacs, btw?)💉

❤️ how tall are you? 5'9

💛 what is your favorite feature on yourself? I like my eyes and my lips, I guess. I love my tattoos.

🩵 do you have any pets? Yep! I have a dog named Bernie who is half lab/half chihuahua.

💙 do you have any siblings? No. My parents split when I was like 18 months so they never had another one.

💜 describe yourself in five words or less! creative but weird

🩷 dream job? Movie trailer editor or writer or publisher/editor

🖤 favorite hobbies outside of your blog I draw, read, work through emotional problems with my therapist who validates me and finds me funny (so, confidence boost), I take a lot of walks, I love listening to music.

🌙 your zodiac (Sun, Moon, Rising) So, I wasn't sure. I'm a Libra and this is what the internet told me (I think):

"Sun in Libra 

There is a kind of natural harmony within you, a “je ne sais quoi” that other people often find mesmerizing. Inner balance is not just a virtue for you, it is a radiating force that comes from within, and you have a natural gift to share this soothing calmness with everyone around you. This inner balance also acts as a moral compass for you, guiding your decision every step of the way over the course of your life. When the storm of chaos threatens your daily routine, you can rely on this soothing energy to make the best decisions for yourself without getting distracted by whatever obstacle arises before you."

And to answer your question: I used to be more into it than I am now. But I wasn't ever good at understanding it fully. The friends I had that focused a lot on it I haven't seen since early college.

💉do you have tattoos and/or piercings

5 tattoos and just three ear piercings in a row up each lobe.

[hardwonderlandruins]

what habits make you smarter

Developing certain habits can help improve your cognitive abilities and overall intelligence. Here are some habits that can contribute to making you smarter:

Continuous Learning: Engage in lifelong learning by reading books, taking online courses, attending seminars, and exploring new topics. Curiosity and a hunger for knowledge are key traits of intelligent individuals.

Critical Thinking: Practice analyzing situations from multiple perspectives, questioning assumptions, and evaluating evidence. This helps you make informed decisions and solve problems effectively.

Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep have a significant impact on cognitive function. Physical health is closely linked to mental sharpness.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance your ability to think clearly and creatively.

Journaling: Writing regularly, whether in a journal or through blogging, can help clarify your thoughts, organize your ideas, and promote self-reflection.

Challenging Activities: Engage in activities that push your mental boundaries, such as puzzles, brain teasers, logic games, and complex problem-solving tasks.

Creativity: Cultivate your creative side through activities like drawing, writing, music, or other artistic endeavors. Creative thinking enhances your ability to find unique solutions to problems.

Social Interaction: Engaging in meaningful conversations and debates with a diverse range of people can expose you to new perspectives and ideas, stimulating intellectual growth.

Setting Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals to stay motivated and focused. Regularly accomplishing these goals can boost your self-confidence and cognitive abilities.

Time Management: Efficiently managing your time helps you allocate sufficient focus and energy to various tasks, leading to better productivity and learning.

Staying Curious: Embrace your natural curiosity and constantly ask questions about the world around you. Curiosity drives exploration and learning.

Continuous Practice: Consistently practice and apply what you learn. Repetition helps solidify knowledge and skills, making them more readily available when needed.

Diverse Reading: Read a wide variety of materials, from books and articles to news and research papers. Exposure to different writing styles and subjects broadens your knowledge base.

Language Learning: Learning a new language challenges your brain and improves cognitive flexibility. It also exposes you to different cultures and ways of thinking.

Adaptability: Embrace change and remain open to new ideas. Adapting to new situations and learning from experiences is a hallmark of intelligence.

Remember that intelligence is multifaceted, and no single habit will make you significantly smarter on its own. Instead, it's the combination of these habits and a commitment to personal growth that can lead to improved cognitive abilities and overall intelligence.

Also read : habits make you incredible