#wildlife in Shogi

[mysterioushimachal]

Shogi, Shimla – A Tranquil Village for Nature Lovers in Himachal Pradesh

[handelplayssims]

Right, been a bit so let’s assess. No work today because it’s “moving day.” 9S is playing a game and 2B is doing yoga to try to de-stress. 9S wants to smooch 2B! Fair enough. I would go on a date but I want that Welcome Wagon. Neighbors drop in just as I have 9S and 2B woohoo. Kinda funny that. 9S is the one who’s chatting with them all and finds out that Hina Matsumoto is a Genius. 9S’s type of gal! I immediately move to make them friends. 2B has gone out for a jog during all of this. Doesn’t want to get involved.

Hmm. 2B is still stressed. You know what? There is a Spa and Gym around this area! It’s time for relaxation! Having said that, we can work on her aspirations while here. I already checked the wildlife report so now I’m going to go down the Bunny Slope! ...also I need to get her a better snowboard in Build Mode. I keep forgetting you can do that. And buy deterrents off of the computer. But for now, let’s work on that rock climbing! ...though she’s naturally stressed again thanks to the people hanging around the gym. Because of course. Anyway, she’s tired now so off to home to slumber.

9S’s whim is to not miss 2B so I’m just going to have him read next to 2B in bed. Next whim is to share ideas so let’s go and chat with Hina some more. Annnd I went to the wrong house. One moment! And some chatter and a chess game and the two are friends! Nice! ...you think chess might instead be shogi over there? Eh, I expect there is also chess players as well. And with that, we head home, making it time for-

Neighborhood Watch!

August Randall in the Randall household has died. August got on the bad side of a chicken.

Felipe Lucena in the Lucena household has died. Felipe was victim to a vicious chicken attack.

Recognize that name but don’t remember where. Still, RIP!

Henford-on-Bagley: The Haney household moved out.

Newcrest: The Father Winter household recently moved out.

Alas no chance to play Father Winter.

Hmm. The reason 2B is so tense all the time is because she’s at risk of losing her close-knit lifestyle. ...and I honestly don’t see too terribly a reason why she would maintain her relationship with Gerald Mulligan, so let’s go be mean to him! That’s better. Other whim is to cloudgaze with an extremely outgoing person she befriended so let’s go and find a moderately sunny area. Not going to ask for anything better because it’s winter.

...huh. I went to a Thrift-And-Bubble-Tea store I set up in Newcrest and it turns out that the Sim they pre-generated took over for that one instead of the one in Copperdale. (Or maybe she’s still the manager of Copperdales? Eh. We’ll see.) Annnnd I completely forgot 2B has work. It’s practising sparring, easily done. Going to spar with Majorie first to see if it counts it off. Turns out, no so we’re going to go home to practice.

9S wants to kiss 2B. Would also think about dating her and we do have the time for it. 8 hours and dates take 6. So let’s go on a date once 2B is done working out! To the park! It is during this date that I realize I’m now in the home stretch of doing romantic socials between the two. DO THOSE ROMANTIC SOCIALS 9S! 9S has now finished the Soulmate aspiration! Good for him! We’ll sort out his next one after he gets back from work. Anyway, with all that dating done, 9S is going to head off to work now and 2B is going to take a hike. As per the aspiration, taking hikes around the neighborhoods is a part of it.

We even manage to encounter a Kodama, which is apart of the aspiration! Nice! Next whim for 2B is to hang out on a lot for a few hours so let’s go home and read up about Rock Climbing. ...since it’s the next stage and we can’t actively climb yet.

9S is back from work and needs a bath and some rest. He shall do those things! Meanwhile 2B is working out...because. (It’s something to do and what’s what she automatically went towards after reading the book and so I just let her have at it after some more book reading) It’s also 8 hours until 2B’s job starts up and her energy need is low too so let’s also have her go to bed.

Neighborhood Watch!

San Myshuno: The Free Spirits moved out.

Alas! Farewell once more, my arts-y lesbians!

[elle-imagines]

Can I have some shikamaru sfw and nsfw headcanons? Thank youu💕💕

“Another day, another opportunity to take a nap under the clouds…You coming?”

Shikamaru SFW + NSFW Headcanons

SFW

Shikamaru prefers to keep many, many people at arm’s length, or perhaps the length of a 6-foot pole. He does not warm up to people easily, and although he works with a lot of shinobi he prefers to keep his close friends a number he can count on one hand. When it comes to developing a relationship with him, it will take a long time. Shikamaru does things on his own time and without a rush. It’s not uncommon to run into him a few times in a week then he goes incognito for the rest of the moment. I wouldn’t push him - he just needs to time to be on his own and commit to his duties as a shinobi. He’s just an enigmatic man who values his autonomy, it would be best to learn to love that about him than try to change it.

When it comes to the conversations you two share, it can oscillate between talking about too-hot weather to theories on the Warring States Period. Anything regarding gossip from neighboring villages or how your tv broke down today wouldn’t be interesting to him. He prefers probing questions that could be a bit off-putting for normal conversation. His mind is something that needs to be stimulated regularly (if only his body could keep up…)

He doesn’t wear his emotions on his sleeve, and that’s okay. His love for his Choji and Ino is strong and glaring, it just doesn’t manifest in loving words or physical affection. Although he seems to not want to be bothered, he is always there for his friends and family. Shikamaru is loyal, and one of the few who will always be close when you need him.

Will definitely call you troublesome while bringing you lunch when you forget to pack it, and will be there to walk you home after school or work. He shows up randomly, but that makes it much more exciting. Acts of service is definite go-to to show he cares, which says a lot from someone who doesn’t like to do much work. Picking up your drycleaning, helping you with your work when you’re stuck, and letting you sleep in while taking out the garbage are a few ways he tries to make your life easier.

Getting to know him as Shikamaru, not a tactician or shinobi, is important to him. Although he is a high-ranking ninja, he doesn’t care about titles in general. I’m sure he’s had people try to get close to him because of his career, which he could sniff out in a few minutes. This has turned him off from dating, so having someone get to know that he likes to read books on chess strategy and wildlife, that he volunteers to tutor children in the afternoon, or that he has 12 designated resting spots in Konoha helps him feel that he is being learned about as a person, not as a ninja.

It’s not uncommon for the two of you to nod off together while sitting in various settings (park, library, dinner table, in front of your boss, etc.)

He can forget recurring, mundane tasks such as paying bills, watering plants, and showing up to things on time. When you see him bringing you breakfast or cooking, it’s because he remembers to do it in that moment (and feels like it, which is 80% of the battle). It would be helpful to have a partner who is more regimented than him, because if not you’d both be in trouble.

“I feel like there was something we were supposed to do today…how troublesome.”

“It’s not troublesome if we don’t remember, right?”

“Hm, I guess not. Let’s go back to sleep.”

With this combination of chaotic disorganization and having high-intellect, he will adapt his lifestyle to be easier for him. Shikamaru hates folding clothes, Shikamaru will own few clothes. Shikamaru doesn’t like cooking often nor doing dishes, Shikamaru will eat out. Shikamaru does not like loud voices, Shikamaru will avoid a 10-mile circumference around Ichiraku’s at the hours of lunchtime, mornings, evenings, or essentially anytime Naruto will be there. Improvise. Adapt. Overcome.

Probably will try not to smoke around you, and will put it out when he sees you approach. He is aware it’s a horrible habit, and will urge you not to follow what he does if he suspects you may pick up on it. 

It drives Shikamaru mad when people speak passive-aggressively about something that is bothering them, and sees it as attention-seeking. I’m sure it’s grown old because of his relationship with Ino. Having sulking, woe-is-me behavior can turn him off, because it doesn’t help the situation get better. He also likes having his privacy respected, whether physically or mentally, so being nosy about his whereabouts or coming into his personal space before the two of you are close is a no-no.

Shikamaru craves connection, more than anyone could perceive. When he lost his mentor and saw the grief Kurenai was in, he first believed that marriage and romantic love was nonsense and more of a nuisance than it’s worth. Even when meeting you and fostering a relationship, he still went back and forth between wanting to be with you and fearing that vulnerability that comes with that. He’d be direct in his intentions with you one day, then you wouldn’t see him for a few weeks as he ruminates over what he said critically. You’d have a conversation that lasts hours about each other and your futures, then he’s shut off and being cold with you. It’s frustrating, and although you know why he acts this way it doesn’t take away the exhaustion his uncertainty brings. It is only when he pursues healthy treatment to cope with his trauma that the relationship could move forward. 

NSFW

Shikamaru has a very low number of people he had sex with, namely because sex is not something that interests him that much. He’s had moments of short-term relationships, but he didn’t find satisfaction from doing that. Most of his stimulation is more mental than physical, so he can satisfy himself by breaking a difficult code or playing shogi with a formidable opponent. His itches come in the form of needing to read something or practice strategy, not needing physical intimacy.

With this being said, his sex drive is low and he probably won’t initiate more than his partner. When he does initiate, he will give a look that communicates what he wants very clearly, and will ask you to come with him somewhere.

He’s the type of person that feels sex is better when you have an emotional connection with someone. He won’t be able to get enough of you. There will be times when he comes behind you to stop you from whatever it is you’re doing just to feel your body against him, to press his nose into your hair.

Shikamaru can be seductive when he needs to be. His stare is penetrating and he will know how to get you flustered every time. He studies patterns, unlocks codes, and plans strategy. Why wouldn’t he use his techniques on you?  His pace is very slow, and he will stimulate and tease you before he pleasures himself. He’s really good at hold down his own arousal to make sure you are ready for him.

Although he may begin your sexual life as pretty vanilla for your comfort, he will overtime want to experiment with you doing different things. When you consent, he will give you a taste of what he likes by gripping your arms tightly, biting softly on your ear, letting a button pop from his eagerness. He will only take it as far as you want, and is always keeping an eye out for discomfort.

He is a bit apprehensive about giving up control and being tie and blindfolded - I’m sure most ninja are. If this is something you are into, it would take a lot of trust and building up before he will do it.

Prefers to give than receive. He’s open to giving and is not big on asking for oral from you. If you offer, he will accept, but he doesn’t ask much from you but to be there for him.. Anything else is a bonus. His very adept at giving you oral pleasure, and just like most things, he will adapt to what you like by listening to the tone of your moans or how your legs grip him a little tighter. He also learned from his past experiences, and is only grateful that he can help you climax since he’s knowledgeable and skillful from his few experiences. He’s a fast learner.

May be open to a bit of play in public, though nothing penetrative. Perhaps on of your walks around town in the evening, or at one of his resting spots, he wouldn’t mind the two of you to engage in some kissing and heavy fondling. He likes to work you up and have you wait until the two of you get home, walking ever-so-slowly much to your annoyance.

[misssunflowersandsangria]

My True Love Gave to Me

Continuing my ficlet collection we have another quick story!  Enjoy some fuzzy, fluffy stuff for Shikamaru and Temari! 

Chapter 7:  Deer (Shikamaru/Temari)

One of the things that Temari loved most now that she was living in Konoha was observing the deer play in the snow in the Nara clan forest.  There were deer in Suna but she never had time to enjoy them the way that she did here. Between missions and meetings, she���d ask Shikamaru if they could spend just a little time out there.  It always made her think about how different their childhoods were. While she was training to be a machine of war for Suna, he was spending his days with his mother and father in meadows with wildlife.   

Shikamaru was always happy to give in to her requests and they’d spend afternoons lazing about together just them and the deer.  He treasured the fact that they so quickly accepted her into their herd. The deer were just as much a part of the Nara clan legacy and he was glad that she recognized that as well. 

He led Temari a little past the entrance to the clan forest where there was a small barn. He explained that while they didn’t typically house or keep any deer they had the space and facilities needed for medical care. 

“I was tracking her for a while and I could kind of tell that something was wrong. She’s pregnant so I brought her in just to make sure that she could deliver safely.” He explained to Temari as they entered the stable the expectant mother was in. While naturally skittish the doe seemed to recognize Shikamaru and allowed them to approach. 

Shikamaru kneeled in the hay. “Hello girl, how does the mom to be feel today?” He asked her gently patting her head and feeding her pellets. He placed some in Temari’s hand and she tried not to laugh feeling the doe take the food from her. While it was occupied he placed his hands on the expectant mother’s stomach.  He shook his head with a sigh. 

“The baby turned.  She’s too close to delivering. This is going to hurt girl but you can do it.”

“How can I help?” Temari asked concerned patting the doe’s head. 

“You’re going to have to hold her for me.”  Shikamaru directed preparing tools to help with the birth. 

Temari nodded whispering. “You can do this girl.  You’re strong.” 

Shikamaru felt his heart melt seeing how sweet and gentle his normally coarse Sand Princess was. 

He had to shake off thoughts of their babies so that he could concentrate. He’d help with breached animals before but it was still a very challenging process and he wanted to make sure baby and mom came out of it alive. 

“Okay let’s deliver this baby.”

*

**

Temari rested her head against Shikamaru’s shoulder as they watched the new mother fawn over her baby.  It was a rough experience for both but they came out of it well and alive. 

“Shika, you did a great job.”  She complimented him wrapping her arms around his waist.  If she wasn’t already so in love with her genius nin she would have fallen for him there in that stable.  He was calm and focused in the same way that he analyzed a Shogi board. When that determination was present in his eyes there was nothing in Heaven or on Earth that could stop him.  

“Thank you, Princess, you being there helped a lot.  They look happy.”

She nodded resting her head against his chest her thoughts turning towards their future and babies.  She hoped that their child would learn to be just as gentle and talented as her Shika was. Perhaps a little less prone to whining but still kind and brilliant.  And as fierce and determined as she was.

Once they were sure that mother and baby were settled for the night they made their way back home hand in hand.  The delivery took a while that the afternoon sky had already turned dark allowing the stars to light their path. 

They watched as a powerful stag appeared from the clearing followed by a beautiful doe and their fawn. The family regarded the couple before darting into the night leaping so far that it looked like they were flying. Temari stood there breathless enchanted by the sight. 

Shikamaru looked down seeing the wonder in her shining eyes. His arms wrapped tightly around her his lips catching hers in a warm kiss. 

When they separated he held her tightly against his chest snow falling around them. 

“So what do you think about babies?”  He asked nervous but hopeful.  They'd been talking about the idea for a while now and it seemed like the right time.  A child from his Princess would be an incredible gift.  

“As a general rule I don’t like them, but if they’re ours I love the idea.” She grinned her eyes sparkling and it was easy for him to imagine their child and their future in her eyes.  Chapter 1:  Mistletoe (Shikamaru/Temari)

Chapter 2:  Snow (Chouji/Karui)

Chapter 3:  Fire (Sai/Ino)

Chapter 4: Peppermint (Shikamaru/Temari)

Chapter 5:  Cookies (Chouji/Karui)

Chapter 6:  Lights (Sai/Ino)

Chapter 7: Deer (Shikamaru/Temari)

[hazusreaderinserts]

Legacy [Naruto Reader-Insert]

You’re definitely a Yamanaka, aren’t you?

Family and Village secrets run rampant. All you wanna do is survive long enough to see Naruto become Hokage and to find out who you really are.

[Fem! Reader x Various]

Warnings: Long plot. Slow-burn. The slowest of the burn.

Crossposted on Wattpad and Quotev. Masterlist

Chapter 2

Sable holds his breath, pulling his chakra close to his core. His entire body is tense, muscles taut and ready to spring to action. The black cloak that drapes over his arm moves and a glint of metal under the moonlight reveals that he is indeed hiding a short blade on his back. He moves closer to the targets that he and his team were shadowing: two nuke-nin from Suna.

It was a pity, for Suna. They were seriously understaffed and overworked after the Third Shinobi War, he didn't blame them for defecting.

Besides, they gave his squad some work. 

And boy, did he like work.

His team had been tracking them for about two to three weeks, they've been pretty crafty and giving them the slip. Unfortunately for the two nuke-nin from Suna, this is Sable's home turf.

The two figures below the branches didn't seem to have noticed him yet. They were huddled up by the small fire that they made, roasting a couple of lizard-like creatures for food. Leave it to Suna shinobi to make the local, scaly wildlife into food. If you looked under Sable's mask, you'd likely find a smile of disdain. Sable had not much love for shinobi from Suna.

Two hostile. Clear. Engage? He raises a gloved arm, signing in rapid succession. Sable sucks in a breath and gazes towards the canopy ahead, waiting for a signal.

Hound nods, a lock of silver hair pokes out of the side of his mask as he signs back.

Affirmative.

Sable's lips spread into a face splitting grin, angling his fingers to make an oblong frame. Like a viewfinder, only deadlier.

"Shiranshin no Jutsu!"

A small bolt of chakra crackles from between his fingers, piercing into one of their bodies with an audible sshng.

On cue, his entire squad erupts out of the leaves; fangs bared and weapons unsheathed. 

The two other nuke-nin didn't stand a chance.

"Ne, Hound-dono, " Sable dusts his hands and adjusts his cloak, "I think we were supposed to bring them in alive.”

The mangled remains of their targets lay strewn across the little clearing that they chased them to, courtesy of Hound and Otter of course. Ever since he got thrown into ANBU, the Sandaime had ordered Hound to, uh. Look after him. In a nutshell.

"It's better if they're dead," Hound responds, his voice curt and concise. He swings his tanto into a wide arc in front of him, the blood and liquid remaining on the blade scattering on the ground.

It was Hound's habit to do such things. Effective, but flashy.

Otter gives a wry chuckle as he wipes a blood spot that had splattered on the front of his flak jacket, "We didn't need that many people for this mission, Hound could have done it on his own."

Hound ignores Otter and unravels the large scroll marked with a black band strapped to his back and seals both the bodies inside. Sable doesn't know if the Intelligence Bureau would be able to identify the bodies later for their bounties, but he held his tongue. To him, Hound always seems on edge. And ruthless. And effective at what he does. Sandaime seemed to have given Sable a scary guard dog.

  "Let's head back to the village," Hound commands and the three of them disappear in a flurry of leaves.

You're in your clan's training fields, going through your clan's taijutsu kata. Father had been busy lately. There wasn't any opportunity for you to ask him to teach you anything. He hasn't had time to see you in a long while.

Your eyes steels as you kick at the padded tree trunk in front of you.

Your leg hits the padding hard. Kick to the kidney. Jab to the clavicle. In your mind, there was an overlay of a person's anatomy on the training log and you were placing very well aimed kicks at the most vulnerable spots on a human body. Or so you think. You were only five.

To a much more experienced shinobi, you were just trying your best. A much more polite way of saying that you’re just a toddler attempting to do one of the most lethal moves of your clan's techniques. But you didn't care. You needed to work as hard as you can.

Then Mother would be proud.

You continue throwing punches and kicks on the log until a voice breaks your focus.

"Hey!" Ino calls out your name, approaching from the main road.

You stop to look at her, panting heavily as you held onto your knees, trying to catch your breath. You had grown up with her, close enough to call her sister, you suppose. Ino wore a pink ribbon in her hair today and a modest off-white blouse with some dark shorts.

Yellow hair and blue eyes. Your source of confusion and envy. Not Ino, but her hair and eyes.

You knew the Nara and Akimichi kids too. They came over when you were younger to have playdates with her. You joined them too. Sometimes.

Shikamaru is really smart. You didn't have the sort of intelligence he had. He beat you in Shogi every time you decide to play him, which wasn't very often. But he did challenge you to use your brain in every other hypothetical war-game that he played with you.

He insists that it's good for you and you don't question him. So you continue playing, even if he did beat you. Every single time.

Choji, however, is pretty nice to you. He offers you extra food to bring back when the playdates were at his house. He also teaches you some easy recipes that kids could make without complicated cooking techniques, which were a lifesaver.

You had suspected that the three of them have been talking about your family situation behind your back and this was their way of taking care of you.

A smile works its way on your lips.

Ino rushes over to you when she sees fat beads of sweat rolling off your brow and bruises on your limbs, her eyebrows furrowed. "You didn't show up for Kunoichi class today," Ino says softly.

A clean handkerchief presses against your sweaty forehead with hurried fervor. Pat. Pat. Pat. You just close your eyes and let her wipe your sweat off.

You watch her mother-hen you for a short moment before muttering out an apology, "Sorry, I kinda lost track of time."

"Nn, It's okay," The worry seems to melt from her face as she eases into a smile, "Wanna go hang out with Shikamaru and Choji? We're going to go cloud watching. Blech." She makes a disgusted face before breaking into a giggle.

You hook your tiny arm around hers in agreement and giggle with her too. That did sound like the lazy, cloud-loving boy you knew.

Ino then fills you in on what happened in Kunoichi class. Telling you about all of the flowers and herbs she picked, and what your sensei had taught that day as the both of you walk to their special spot, arm in arm.

She doesn't ask why you didn't turn up or why you were basically beating yourself up with intense training. Ino doesn't question you about anything.

You like that about her.

That night, Brother returns home sloshing drunk, stinking of alcohol and money. He swings a bag of jingling coins at you with a half-lidded grin.

"Lil' Mouse, guess who has extra allowance this weeeek?" He drawls out the last syllable at you, as he shakes the bag at you.

Brother is a horrible drunk.

It doesn't happen often but Brother does end up drunk whenever he comes back from one of those missions that he had to dress up all weird for. You weren't focused on him though, you were more focused on the stranger that had your brother half-draped over his shoulder.

He had silvery-white hair styled upwards with some strands peeping forward to frame his face. His eyes were hooded and dark. Well. Eye. His other eye was closed, a long visible scar running down.  A mask covered most of his features but you could tell that he was good-looking.

He seemed to be a little bit older than Brother.

"Hey. I brought your brother back, " He lets Brother crumple into a drunken mess before your feet and disappears, leaving behind a few stray leaves on your otherwise clean porch.

"M-mouse-chan," Brother gurgles while hugging one of your legs, giggling with alcohol-induced glee.

You stare at the leaves, then at your brother and back to the leaves.

You ignore your brother, your eyes lingering on where that mysterious stranger was standing before.

You suddenly want to learn how to shunshin as soon as possible.

A/N: I was on a roll so I released this chapter early! The first couple of chapters will just be setting up the relationships between Rea-chan and everyone else, so hang in there guys! So how do you like the characterization of rea-chan's brother and their relationship? Did you guys spot the little hint of Rea-chan's family situation that I dropped in his part? What do you guys think about this mysterious older boy who seems to be friends with Rea-chan's brother? Please comment and tell me what you think! 

Feedback and criticism are welcome too! 

[phantomsheart]

hearing the other girl’s words, hifumi turned to face her. listening closely. although she did interviews and constantly spoke to new and different people, it was always different when she spoke to students around her age. she didn’t have much to talk about besides shogi anyways, so it was nice to see the other girl putting in the effort to talk about something, anything.

“a fox..?”, she questioned, “at least at this shrine, i don’t think i’ve seen much wildlife aside from the usual birds and squirrels… maybe the fox was the shrine’s guardian?”, she playfully suggested to the other, a smile pricking at the corner of her lips.

“ i like how quiet it is here. ” shiho starts, before her voice dies out. “ it reminds me of this old shrine i used to hang out at in my hometown. ” it’s so hard to start a conversation- and attempt to be … semi-formal, or at least polite. “ there was this fox that lived there who was surprisingly friendly- i’d always bring it some treats whenever i had leftover grocery money. ”

@phantomsheart​’s hifumi and the princely underclassman.

[justwravel-blog]

10 Awesome Road Trips Around Gurgaon You Can Plan Under Rs.4000 Daily following the same schedule from morning till evening is so monotonous. Especially when you are living in millennium cities like Gurgaon. A person residing in Gurgaon (now also known as Gurugram) can easily relate to this problem in a much better way. People are so much busy in their mundane lifestyle that sometimes it becomes really important to travel and just relax. Living in and around Gurgaon is a great thing especially for those who want to escape the madness of city life. There are so many awesome places around Gurgaon that can be visited under a shoestring amount of Rs. 4000 only. So here are 10 road trips from Gurgaon under budget which you can plan with your friends, family or someone special. RAJASTHAN

Bundi - Nestled in beautiful Aravali hills valley, Bundi in Rajasthan is just perfect for both family and backpackers. Situated at 446 kms from Gurugram, Bundi was earlier the capital of this princely state during Rajput kingdom. And since the area been occupied by Mina and Bhil community, Bundi was named after a popular Mina man called Bunda Meena. Away from the chaos of the urban lifestyle, Bundi is adorned with so many fascinating palaces and forts. So, don’t miss out them.

Pushkar - Known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan’, Pushkar is another perfect place to feel the vibes of hippie and traditional culture both at the same time. This holy place is popular amongst Hindus because of the sacred Pushkar lake and the only Brahma temple situated here. The best time to visit Pushkar is during Pushkar Camel Fair. Come, plan a visit to this religious site in Rajasthan, take a holy dip in the Pushkar lake wash your sins. Situated at 375 kms from Gurgaon, this travel destination can be visited under budget.

HIMACHAL PRADESH

Shogi - Located at a distance of 400 kms from Gurugram, Shoghi is soul-soothing hill retreat in the lap of Himalayas. This small hill town near Shimla is a perfect place for a budgeted road trip from Gurgaon. From temples to adventure activities, there are quite good options to explore in Shoghi - known for its various fruit made products like juices, squashes etc. Choose this nearby destination in Himachal Pradesh for a small roadtrip from Gurgaon.

Nahan - Just like Shoghi, Nahan is also one such place where you can relax in serene surroundings of nature. Away from the buzzing crowd of the city, this hill station is praised for trekking, fishing, forts, and wildlife. Located at 287 kms from Gurgaon in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, a roadtrip to Nahan can be visited easily without creating a hole in your pocket. There are various options for sightseeing such as Renukaji Lake, Paonta Sahib and numerous Hindu temples like Trilokpur Temple and Miyan Temple to name a few. Visit this quaint hill station nestled in Shivalik hills for a peaceful vacation.

Churdhar Trek - Adorned with virgin natural beauty, Churdhar is the highest peak of Shivalik hills - the outer Himalayan range. This awe-inspiring mountain trek is surrounded with lush green forest area, terraced fields and pasture lands for grazing. The term ‘Churdhar’ means Churi-Chandni Dhar (Bangles of the snow ridge). Also, very few know that it is from here George Everest made his astronomical reading of Himalayan Mountains.

MADHYA PRADESH

Bhind - Situated at Bhind is a beautiful and less-explored place in Madhya Pradesh. Blessed with serene mountains, forest areas, valleys and lots more, Bhind is an ideal travel destination for peace seekers, nature lovers and heritage buffs. There are so many historical and magnificent structures to see such as Fort of Ater, Mata Renuka Mandi, Gohad Fort, Jain Temples of Baranso, etc.

Orchha - Lies on the bank of Betwa River, Orchha is a hidden gem in Madhya Pradesh which is gaining popularity nowadays. Decorated with magnificent palaces and intricately carved shrines, Orchha is a good option for a perfect roadtrip from Gurgaon at 448 kms. History and photography enthusiasts will definitely fall in love with the historic side of this less visited destination.

UTTARAKHAND

Khirsu - Blessed with virgin natural beauty, Khirsu in Uttarakhand is a heaven for peace seekers. Offering stunning views of snow-peaked Himalayas, holidaying in this picturesque hill town will relieve you from all the urban stress. Cool and pollution free environment of Khirsu makes it an ideal destination to choose for a budgeted roadtrip from Gurugram.

Mukteshwar - Located at 366 kms from Gurgaon, Mukteshwar provides a much-needed break from the hubbub of city life. This charming hill retreat near popular travel destination Nainital offers utmost solitude and breathtaking views of Himalayas. Decorated with fruit orchards, roadtrip to Mukteshwar from Gurgaon will give you a break from mundane lifestyle.

Chakrata - Looking for a small roadtrip destination near Gurugram that too under budget? Chakrata near Dehradun is one such hill retreat. This little hamlet is known for its lush green forests, scenic views and pleasant weather. Located at 358 kms from Gurgaon, Chakrata is a must visit place for family and best friends. You can also trek to Kharamba peak at 10, 000 ft. while in Chakrata.

Looking for some more destinations near Gurgaon? Checkout the road trips you can plan under Rs.4000. Contributed By: Sahil Singh

[takunomistudio-blog]

Takunomi Coffee Reveries, Vol. I

Contents

1 - Introduction

2 - Revitalizing the Ancients {Breath of the Wild, Final Fantasy XV}

3 - Coding for Your Own Sake {Coding, Python}

4 - LoFi Hip Hop Radio {Musical Interlude}

5 - Enticing for Computer Science {YouTube, Shōgi}

1 - Introduction

So a break for the better part of March apparently extends to most of April. That's fine. It gives time to reflect, struggle with exams, play some video games, all that good Jazz. In regards to reflection, it became apparent that daily updates was a noble goal, but a bit demanding, and my favorite posts were the Saturday recap posts, so why not try to make irregular but meatier Saturday posts only? As the content above shows, I thought it better if a bunch of good content was gathered for some relaxing perusal, coffee in hand.

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2 - Revitalizing the Ancients

I would be remise not to talk Breath of the Wild. The only problem is, the game pretty much speaks for itself, quality and qualities wise, doesn't it? Yet, since last I posted, I completed Final Fantasy XV, so it's not a bad idea to talk abot how these two ancient giants deal with awakening in today's gaming world.

I wasn't immediately floored by FFXV, but the sort of chill, super-realistic setting of magical pretty-boys and roadtripping in hostile territory quickly won me over. Talking abot it's story is both a laughably sort excercise and a maddingly long one, so I'm going to simply say: It's quite good, and quite incomplete. If you haven't played FFXV, just wait till all the updates and DLC are out, you'll get the full experience.

What FFXV truly was to me, was a fantasy of travelling around a lush green environment and mowing down wildlife and roaming weaponized armor troupes. The open world element, I realized, was simply a part of the mood. I could hardly go wherever I liked, and trying to explore, rarely revealed anything surprising. FFXV was, like so many earlier entried in the series, about it's combat. I'll get to why that's more than ok.

I haven't finished Breath of the Wild yet, but it's not trying to hide where it'll end up, so it doesn't require a lot of confidence to say that I see the bigger picture by now. BotW gets open world design. It gets it like no game before it. Everything is traversable and though there isn't a purpose to going all places, neither does it ever feel like a time waste. The level of detail in both the big picture and the smallest iota, is astounding. To be fair, BotW doesn't play much different from so many other games. Instead, it seems to say "This is how you should do open world", drops a mic and let's you play.

Both FFXV and BotW initially appear to be entering the modern world by seemingly accepting how Western developers design games: Real-time combat, ultra realistic graphics (FFXV) and go-where-ever-you-like, play-how-you-feel-like (BotW). Instead they both end up adhering to their roots in decidedly new ways. The Zelda puzzles, space-comprehension-requiring dungeons, grunting NPCs, tangible environments. It's all there, but in a far greater and smoother scale.

In many ways, it would be easy to call BotW the greater success, but I don't want to seem like I don't appreciate the technology behind FFXV. Consider the first time I entered the wood and monster infested Duscae area. I saw a creature I had a mark for. Me and my bodyguards flung into the fray and started hacking away. As the melee rolled around, we entered the vicinity of nearby monsters who happily obliged and suddenly the brawl was blooming into a war-like scenario. At that moment, a flying tank filled with soldiers came by to have a chat. I realize now, that this is crazy. The number of characters that FFXV supports at one point is mind blowing. No slow-downs, just more and more beasts. BotW on the other hand, nearly cracky my Wii U when I engaged five hulking moblins and a small batch of ice-bats in freezing tree-house. Perhaps BotW could achieve something like FFXV, but it's not the point. To these games, open world means different things. To BotW it's external: Go everywhere, always, whenever. To FFXV it's local: The immediate space is open to the battle system, now, to everyone.

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3 - Coding for Your Own Sake

Why would you want to learn programming? Maybe the idea just appeals to you, or you have some greater goal in mind for the future. Right now, you just don't have a clue what to code.

Here's a way to find a small project: Just recreate another program, in the simplest way possible, and maybe add a tiny spin on it to give yourself a challenge. Cut out visuals, complicated functionality or even user friendliness. Just make it run.

So recently I thought, how about a music player? I'd like to try my hand at Python, that seemed like a pleasant langauge to code in.

Reading around a bit, I discovered that Python is all about importing so-called modules that do a lot of the complicated stuff for you. I simply googled various key words and started copy-pasting something together. I learned stuff about how mp3 files being a bit more complicated than I expected, and so I scaled the project back to simply playing .wav files. Currently doing a course about distributed systems, I thought, maybe I should make it a small radio program? This was bit more complicated, but no more than it all resulted in the following tiny program. Simply start the program with

python3 server.py [name of song].wav

in one terminal window, and start a client in another terminal window with

python3 client.py

and hear the music play. It even works across computers on the same network.

server.py

client.py

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4 - LoFi Hip Hop Radio

Hiphop-like music coupled with looping images from amazingly relaxing anime is apparently a thing, and I see no reason not to endorse it one hundred percent. Below you see Shizuku Tsukishima from Whisper of the Heart feeling as relaxed as I hope you do. The image links to one of those previously mentioned hiphop radios.

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5 - Enticing for Computer Science

The video above is one of toco toco tv's fantastic interviews with interesting and creative Japanese people. Manao Kagawa is a professional Shogi player, and, as far as I can understand, apparently somewhat uncommon, being female.

Besides being a wonderfully relaxing interview, it features a great part in the beginning where Kagawa-san goes to browse the Shirataki Gofukuten kimono shop. It seems that being a Shogi player requires you to wear somewhat formal wear, and the result is that the players looks insanely dashing.

What's even better though, is the mentioning of the Shirataku Ayumi Hai, a yearly Shogi tournament for female players to win beautiful and (I assume) quite expensive kimono.

A quite well-discussed subject, is how the rate of women joining Computer Science and the IT work force in general, is too low. I won't get into politics here, but what is a fact, is that Computer Scientists are in short supply everywhere in the world. At the same time, it seems the education world is mainly drawing from one of two pools of potential students (men). In other words, there is a whole other, quite untapped, pool of with potential students to draw from.

I've seen some really good initiatives to reverse the current trend, but I think the one seen in the video is a wonderfully aesthetic idea. I don't know if it manages to draw in new Shogi players Japan, but having some sort of algorithm competition aimed at high school age (or younger) girl, with very sought-after, classically feminine prizes1, seems like it could draw in a segment that normally has no interest in this branch of science, despite engaging in similar ones (mathematics, medicine, biology).

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Big IT companies sponsor lots of things with huge amounts of money. Winning a Chanel handbag for solving algorithmic problems in high school, seems like quite a carrot. ↩︎

[corazonimagines-blog]

Hi there! I was hoping you could do a ship me with! I have a cheerful personality and am pretty cuddly, but am a bit of a loner and appreciate time to myself. I talk with people, but I also enjoy silence, if that makes any sense. ;w; I remember things about people easily. I love nature and find pretty much everything to be cute (even spiders and snakes) and enjoy being outside. Hiking and identifying species is a hobby of mine. I don't like loud noises or loud people. I like honesty. Ships? o:

I Ship you with Shikamaru

Shikamaru is calm, relaxed and laid back, and would enjoy your cheerful and cuddly personality. Even though he’s not exactly cheerful himself, instead he’s more mild, level headed and poised, Therefore; he’s approachable and easy to get along with.

He thinks your cheerfulness is cute and likes being around you for it, combined with the fact that your pretty cuddly he would see you as an uplifting person who inspires happiness within him. Shikamaru also tends to be more of a loner, he falls in line with friends fine but is perfectly fine being alone.

He respects others personal space and if you want to be alone, or have time by yourself he’s perfectly fine with that. However; he would be observant of your mood and would be more reluctant to let you be alone if he thought something was bothering you, even though he wouldn’t directly call you out on it.

He doesn’t mind talking to people especially if they’re more laid back and calm like he is, but gets annoyed with people who are to bossy, loud or demanding when they talk. he would enjoy having peaceful conversations with you, talking about your hobbies, daily events, thoughts and plans.

He would also be perfectly comfortable being around you and not talking at all, He doesn’t see silence as being awkward and enjoys the peace. Shikamaru is very attentive and observant in all aspects, always noticing small details and remembers things about people, places and things fairly easily.

Seeing as you also remember things easily about people he sees this as a very positive trait about you, the two of you could make an incredible strong, intelligent and skilled pair for missions. Shikamaru enjoys being outside and enjoys others that also appreciates nature, however he wouldn’t necessarily share your appreciation for hiking.

Being farther on the lazy scale then you, he’d be more inclined to be IN nature than moving through it. Prefers sitting or lying around observing nature watching wildlife, looking at forests and nature in general, or looking at the clouds and stars.

He would go hiking with you from time to time though and would enjoy taking in the scenery, however he would have a slow pace and would most likely fall behind fairly quickly, often having a stop and go way about him. He wouldn’t really understand your ability to see everything as cute, and has a difficult time agreeing with you that everything is cute.

Wouldn’t even agree with you over half the things you thought was cute, he views things as much more plain and ordinary. Seeing something like a spider as simply as spider and nothing more, therefore he has a difficult time understanding how it could be seen as cute.

Despite him not being able to understand your views on this matter, he enjoys your positive view and interpretation of things he views as ordinary.Likes the fact that a hobby of yours is Identifying species, he has a very basic ability of identifying plant, insect and animal species.

therefore he values and respects you for having a hobby he has limited knowledge in, especially since he views this hobby as a helpful and useful skill. Feels the same way as you about loud noises and loud people, He’s especially annoyed and agitated by loud and obnoxious people.

Prefers quieter people not that he doesn’t like to talk, he just likes people with a slower more relaxed and calm pace. You both would find cocky and loud characters like Naruto or Kiba exhausting and tiresome, Not that either of you wouldn’t get along with them to some degree, but it would be more taxing and stressful to you both.

He values honesty, loyalty, and devotion and finds it easy to trust you seeing as you also value honesty. The two of you would be able to build a close relationship knowing that you could trust each other and rely on each other in any situation.

The two of you have so much in common, and even the qualities that differ between you two would mesh well. He would enjoy your company overall and appreciates the fact that he doesn’t have to go out of his way, or change his personality much to get along well with you.

Headcanons between you two 

Lightly teases you or pokes fun at you for finding just about everything cute. Personally he thinks its a very adorable personality trait of yours, but wouldn’t openly admit that to you.

Goes hiking with you occasionally but lightly complains about it, he likes spending time with you like this but finds hiking tiring. would complain about being tired, hiking for to long, if the hiking path was to rigorous or if you were walking to fast.

Enjoys learning about your hobbies through you, Occasionally likes to test your ability in recognizing species by asking questions or pointing at something and asking you what it is. He would also resort to this while hiking with you if he was tired and trying to slow you down.

Likes relaxing with you, cuddling with you and sharing his hobbies with you as well. tries to get you involved in playing Shogi with him or other puzzle type games.

Even though he would respect you enough to leave you alone to be by yourself when ever you wanted to be alone. If he felt like something was truly bothering you (if you seemed angry/sad/depressed etc) he wouldn’t leave you alone, he may or may not say anything depending on what kind of mood you were in. But he would make a point to stay in the same room as you in case you wanted to talk.

Likes to talk to you and get your opinion on things knowing he can get an honest answer/opinion from you. whether its over basic or daily things or more serious issues.

Other characters I would ship you with

Yamato, Itachi, Deidara, These are characters I feel you could be in a fairly comfortable relationship with but would have more hiccups with, then the character I shipped you with above. ❤