#INHERIT THE COMPAN

[cainpain]

Drawing Yan Sim characters daily !

Day 20 !! Woahhh

YAE OGATA !!!

I actually think she's cool, I like all the characters from the like. kidnapping list. Don't draw her though Messed up with her eyes ermmm sowwy

[thuzyblog]

Cavoodle Dog Breeds Characteristics & 14 Facts

 Discover everything there is to know about Cavoodle Dog Breeds. Learn about their background, temperament, health issues, grooming requirements, training tips, and more. Find out if Cavoodle Dogs make good family pets, what they can and cannot eat, and why they have a bad reputation.

What exactly is a Cavoodle Dog?

A Cavoodle, also known as a Cavapoo, is a small designer breed created by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. They typically weigh 10-20 pounds and have a hypoallergenic coat that must be groomed on a regular basis. Cavoodles are intelligent, friendly, and affectionate dogs that make excellent family pets.

Overview of the Cavoodle Dog

The Cavoodle, also known as the Cavapoo, is a small breed of dog that originated in the 1950s in the United States. It's a hybrid of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. Because of its adorable appearance, friendly personality, and hypoallergenic coat, this breed is extremely popular.

Cavoodles are small dogs that weigh between 12 and 25 pounds and stand between 9 and 14 inches tall. They have soft, curly or wavy coats that shed little, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Their coat colors can range from black, white, brown, cream, gold, or a combination of these.

Cavoodles are highly affectionate companion dogs who enjoy being around their owners. They are good with children, other pets, and strangers, making them an excellent family pet. They are intelligent and simple to train, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners.

Cavoodles require moderate exercise and benefit from daily walks and playtime. They can live in apartments or houses with yards because they are adaptable. They do, however, require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and prevent matting.

Overall, Cavoodles are a charming and delightful breed that makes an excellent family pet for those looking for a small, friendly, and low-shedding dog.

What is the history of the Cavoodle?

Cavoodle is a designer dog breed that was developed in Australia in the late 1990s by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. The breeding was done to create a hypoallergenic and friendly companion dog that would inherit the best characteristics of its parent breeds.

Cavoodles are small to medium-sized dogs with soft, wavy or curly coats that come in cream, black, gold, chocolate, and apricot colors. They are loyal, affectionate, and playful dogs who, due to their friendly nature and adaptability, make excellent family pets.

Regular grooming and exercise are required to keep Cavoodle coats healthy and prevent obesity. They also require early socialization and training to help them develop good behavior and manners.

Finally, the Cavoodle is a popular designer dog breed that originated in Australia and is known for its hypoallergenic coat, friendly temperament, and adaptability as a family pet.

Size of a Cavoodle

Cavoodle dogs are a small to medium-sized breed that weighs between 5 and 15 kg and stands between 25 and 38 cm tall. They are a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, with various coat types and colors as a result.

Cavoodles are popular as family pets due to their friendly and affectionate nature. They enjoy the company of humans and other animals, and they get along well with children. They are also intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times, necessitating some patience during training.

Cavoodles' coats, which can range from curly to straight and come in a variety of colors including apricot, black, white, and others, require regular grooming. To stay healthy, they require daily exercise, such as walks or playtime, as well as a well-balanced diet.

Positive reinforcement techniques work well for these dogs in terms of training. Consistent training and socialization beginning at a young age can aid in the prevention of behavioral issues.

Cavoodles are excellent companions for those seeking a friendly, trainable, and low-shedding dog.

Cavoodle Temperament and Personality Traits

Personality traits are developed through training and experiences, whereas temperament refers to a dog's natural disposition. Cavoodles are known for being friendly, sociable, and affectionate. They are usually friendly with children, other pets, and strangers.

Cavoodles have intelligent personalities that are easy to train. They enjoy learning new commands and tricks, making them an excellent choice for families or individuals looking for a trainable companion. Furthermore, Cavoodles have moderate energy levels, which means they need daily exercise but are not overly hyperactive.

Individual dogs' temperaments and personalities can differ depending on genetics, socialization, and training. Potential Cavoodle owners should conduct research and meet the specific dog they're thinking about adopting or purchasing to ensure it's a good fit for their lifestyle.

Cavoodle Appearance and Coat Characteristics

The Cavoodle, also known as the Cavapoo, is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. Cavoodles have the following appearance and coat characteristics:

Cavoodles typically stand 25-40 cm tall and weigh between 5 and 12 kg.

Cavoodles have a soft, curly or wavy coat that is low-shedding, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. They are available in a variety of colors such as black, white, cream, gold, apricot, and red.

Cavoodles have a teddy bear face with round, dark eyes and a short, broad muzzle.

Ears: Their ears are long and droopy, with long hair covering them.

Cavoodles have medium-length tails that are usually docked to one-third of their original length.

Their body is compact and muscular, with a broad chest and straight legs.

Cavoodles are an adorable, hypoallergenic companion pet due to their appearance and coat characteristics.

Cavoodle Health Concerns and Care

Cavoodles are a mixed breed dog that can suffer from a variety of health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, eye problems, and dental problems. Regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and parasite prevention, is essential to your Cavoodle's health and well-being.

In addition to veterinary care, proper nutrition for your Cavoodle is essential. A high-quality diet with adequate amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates is critical to their overall health.

Regular exercise and mental stimulation are also necessary to keep your Cavoodle physically and mentally fit. Daily walks and playtime can help them meet their exercise requirements.

Finally, grooming is an important aspect of Cavoodle care. Brushing, bathing, and trimming on a regular basis can help keep their coat healthy, prevent matting, and lower the risk of skin infections. Furthermore, cleaning their ears and teeth on a regular basis can help prevent ear infections and dental problems.

Overall, giving your Cavoodle attentive healthcare is critical to ensuring their long-term health and happiness.

Lifespan of Cavoodle Dog Breeds

The Cavoodle, also known as the Cavapoo, has a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. This lifespan can vary depending on genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare. Cavoodles, which typically weigh between 12 and 25 pounds, are a cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Miniature or Toy Poodles.

Cavoodle Diseases That Are Common

Cavoodles, also known as Cavapoos, are a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles. They, like all dogs, are susceptible to a variety of diseases and health issues. The following are some of the most common diseases in Cavoodles:

Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder that affects the hip joint. It causes pain and discomfort and has the potential to lead to arthritis.

Cavoodles are susceptible to ear infections due to their floppy ears. It is critical to clean their ears on a regular basis and to seek veterinary care if necessary.

Patellar Luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and difficulty walking.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a genetic condition that affects the retina, eventually leading to blindness.

Mitral Valve Disease - A heart condition affecting the mitral valve, which regulates blood flow in the heart. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure.

To reduce your Cavoodle's risk of developing these illnesses, maintain regular vet check-ups and provide them with a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Cavoodle Nutrition and Feeding Requirements

Cavoodles, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, have nutrition and feeding needs similar to other small dog breeds. They require a well-balanced diet that includes essential nutrients like protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

The frequency with which they are fed is determined by their age, activity level, and metabolism. Younger puppies require more frequent feedings, typically 3-4 small meals per day, whereas adults can eat fewer, larger meals. It is critical not to overfeed them because they are prone to obesity, which can lead to health problems.

It is critical to choose high-quality, well-balanced commercial dog food or home-cooked meals that meet their nutritional needs when selecting dog food. Giving them table scraps or human food can lead to digestive problems and nutrient imbalances. Additionally, always provide fresh water and avoid feeding them toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic.

Consultation with a veterinarian or a professional animal nutritionist can help ensure that your Cavoodle is receiving a diet that is appropriate for their specific needs.

Cavoodle Grooming Requirements

The Cavoodle, also known as the Cavapoo, is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. Grooming requirements for this breed include regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their curly or wavy coat. They also require trimming on a regular basis to maintain a neat appearance.

Bathing on a regular basis is advised, but not too frequently, as this can strip the coat of its natural oils. To avoid dental problems, keep your nails trimmed on a regular basis and brush your teeth at least twice a week.

Cavoodle grooming requirements are moderate and require some effort to keep them looking and feeling healthy.

Cavoodle Training and Exercise

Training and exercise are essential for the health and well-being of Cavoodle dogs. Cavoodles are a cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles, making them intelligent and active dogs who need mental and physical stimulation.

It is best to begin training early and use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. Before progressing to more advanced training, basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught first. Socialization is also necessary to acquaint the Cavoodle with other people, dogs, and environments.

To keep the Cavoodle physically active and prevent boredom, a daily walk or playtime in a fenced yard is recommended. They also enjoy sports like agility courses, hiking, and swimming. However, because they are prone to joint problems, they should not be over-exercised.

Overall, giving Cavoodles adequate training and exercise can help ensure they live a happy and healthy life.

Cavoodle Nutrition and Diet

Feeding and diet are important factors in keeping a Cavoodle healthy. They are small dogs with a lot of energy, so they need a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet to keep up with their active lifestyle.

Cavoodles should be fed high-quality dog food with protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is best to select a brand of dog food that is specifically designed for small breeds. A Cavoodle's food intake should be determined by their age, weight, activity level, and overall health.

Cavoodles can eat human foods in addition to dog food, such as cooked meat, vegetables, and fruits. However, foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions, should be avoided.

It is critical to always have clean drinking water available, especially during hot weather or after exercise. Overfeeding and underfeeding should be avoided because they can lead to obesity or malnutrition.

Overall, feeding and diet play an important role in a Cavoodle's health and well-being. Consult a veterinarian for advice on the best food and feeding schedule for your Cavoodle.

Creating a Cavoodle

Cavoodle breeding is the process of mating a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle to produce the Cavoodle, a hybrid breed. Cavoodles are small, friendly, and affectionate dogs that make excellent family pets.

These dogs usually weigh 10-20 pounds and stand 9-14 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a soft, wavy or curly coat in a variety of colors such as white, black, gold, red, and cream.

Cavoodles' coats must be groomed on a regular basis to keep them healthy and free of mats and tangles. They also require daily exercise and mental stimulation to avoid becoming bored or destructive.

Training a Cavoodle can be simple if done consistently and positively. Positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise work well with these dogs.

Overall, breeding and caring for a Cavoodle can be a rewarding experience for those looking for a devoted companion. To ensure the health and well-being of both the parent dogs and their offspring, it is critical to conduct extensive research and select a reputable breeder.

Are Cavoodles suitable as family pets?

Cavoodles are generally regarded as good family pets. Because they are a cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles, they are affectionate, friendly, and intelligent. They get along well with children and other pets, and their low-shedding coat makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

However, individual temperament can vary, so it's always a good idea to meet the puppy's parents and spend time with the dog before deciding to bring them into your home.

Are Cavoodle puppies good with kids?

Cavoodle dogs are typically friendly, affectionate, and playful, making them good with children. However, just like any other dog, their behavior around children can vary depending on their temperament, training, and socialization. To avoid accidents or injuries, it is critical to supervise interactions between young children and any dog, including Cavoodles. Cavoodles can be well-behaved around children with proper training and socialization.

Do Cavoodles get along with other animals?

Cavoodle dogs, also known as Cavapoo dogs, get along well with other animals if they are properly socialized from a young age. They have a friendly and playful personality, so they usually get along well with other dogs, cats, and small animals. However, it is critical to monitor their interactions and gradually introduce them in a controlled environment to ensure the safety of all animals involved.

Furthermore, because each dog's temperament varies, it's always best to monitor their behavior around other animals and intervene if necessary.

What Are the Best Places to Find and Adopt a Cavoodle Puppy?

To find and adopt a Cavoodle puppy, start by looking for reputable breeders or rescue organizations in your area online. Look for websites or social media accounts with information about the breeder's reputation, breeding practices, and the health and temperament of their puppies. You can also inquire with local animal shelters or rescue organizations to see if any Cavoodle puppies are available for adoption.

Consider asking other Cavoodle owners for recommendations on where they found their furry friend. Before making a decision, always thoroughly research any potential breeder or adoption organization, and always prioritize the puppy's well-being.

What is the cost of a Cavoodle dog?

Cavoodles are a popular cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles. The cost of a Cavoodle varies depending on several factors, including breeder reputation, location, and demand. A Cavoodle puppy will cost you between $2,000 and $5,000 on average.

When it comes to personality, Cavoodles are known for being affectionate and friendly. They get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family pets. They also have a low-shedding coat, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Cavoodles must be groomed on a regular basis to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. They also require daily exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their happiness and health. Training is essential for any dog, and Cavoodles respond well to positive reinforcement methods of training.

Cavoodles can be wonderful companions for the right owner who is willing to put in the time and effort to properly care for them.

Where Can I Find and Save a Cavoodle?

To purchase or rescue a Cavoodle, look for local shelters or rescue organizations that specialize in this breed. You can also look for reputable Cavoodle breeders online or through recommendations from reliable sources. Before making a decision, thoroughly research the breeder or rescue organization and ask a lot of questions. Consider adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization to give a dog in need a loving home.

FAQ:

Why are Cavapoos the Best?

I'm sorry, but I can't make value judgments or express opinions about whether Cavapoos are the best. What is considered "best" depends on individual preferences and needs. It would be more appropriate to provide accurate information about Cavapoos, such as breed characteristics, temperament, and care requirements, and let individuals decide if they are the best fit for them.

Cavoodle grows to what size?

A Cavoodle (also known as a Cavapoo) is a small dog breed with an adult weight of 5 to 12 kilograms (11 to 26 pounds) and a shoulder height of 25 to 38 centimeters (10 to 15 inches).

The size of a Cavoodle, on the other hand, can vary depending on a variety of factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise. It's important to note that there's no guarantee on how big a particular Cavoodle will grow, but their size can be estimated based on their parents' sizes.

What Can a Cavoodle Eat?

Cavoodles can eat a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, and beef. Complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, and whole grains are also acceptable.

Cavoodles can also eat vegetables like carrots, green beans, and peas, as well as fruits like apples and bananas in moderation. Foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, and avocados, should be avoided. For specific dietary recommendations for your Cavoodle, always consult with a veterinarian.

What Can't a Cavoodle Eat?

Certain foods should be avoided by Cavoodles because they can be harmful to their health. Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, chives, avocado, nuts, cooked bones, fatty or spicy foods, and anything sweetened with xylitol are all examples of these. To ensure that your Cavoodle gets all the necessary nutrients to stay healthy, stick to a well-balanced diet of high-quality dog food recommended by your veterinarian.

Is a Cavoodle an intelligent dog?

Yes, Cavoodles are generally thought to be intelligent dogs. They are known for being affectionate, friendly, and simple to train, making them ideal companions for both families and individuals. Individual temperament and behavior, as with all dogs, can vary depending on factors such as training, socialization, and genetics.

How difficult is it to care for a Cavoodle?

A Cavoodle can be difficult to care for, but it is generally regarded as a low-maintenance breed. Cavoodles' long, curly coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. To avoid boredom and anxiety, they also require daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Cavoodles require a balanced diet, routine veterinary check-ups, and proper dental care in addition to grooming and exercise. They are susceptible to certain health problems, such as ear infections, dental problems, and eye conditions, which should be monitored by a veterinarian.

Overall, the level of difficulty in caring for a Cavoodle will be determined by your personal circumstances and lifestyle. They can make wonderful, affectionate companions for both families and individuals with proper care and attention.

What issues might Cavoodle face?

Cavoodles, also known as Cavapoos, can suffer from a variety of health issues, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy in the eyes, hip dysplasia in the hips, mitral valve disease in the heart, and skin allergies. Because of their floppy ears, they may be prone to ear infections. Regular veterinary examinations and care can aid in the prevention and management of these health issues.

Are Cavoodles prone to aggression?

Cavoodles are typically not aggressive. They are known to be affectionate and friendly dogs who get along well with children and other pets. Individual Cavoodle temperaments may vary, as with any breed, depending on factors such as genetics and upbringing. Proper socialization, training, and care can help ensure that your Cavoodle is well-behaved and non-aggressive.

Is the Cavoodle Dog Biting?

Cavoodle dogs can, in fact, bite. Cavoodles, like all dogs, can bite if they are threatened or scared, or if they are not properly trained and socialized. To avoid biting incidents, owners must provide their Cavoodles with proper training, socialization, and supervision. Furthermore, it is critical for people to approach all dogs, including Cavoodles, with caution and respect, and to never approach a dog that is acting aggressively or fearfully.

Is Cavoodle Dog a heavy barker?

Cavoodle dogs may bark excessively if they are not properly trained, or if they are anxious or bored. They can, however, be trained to bark less frequently with proper training and socialization. It is important to note that individual dogs' barking behavior may vary, so it is best to seek personalized advice from a veterinarian or dog trainer.

Why is my Cavoodle stinking?

There are several possible causes for your Cavoodle's bad odor. Skin infections, ear infections, dental problems, and anal gland problems are all common causes. Odors can also be caused by poor hygiene practices such as infrequent bathing or brushing. To determine the underlying cause of the odor and receive appropriate treatment, consult with a veterinarian.

What's the deal with my Cavoodle's panting?

Panting can occur for a variety of reasons, including heat, exercise, excitement, anxiety, illness, or pain. Panting is a natural way for dogs to cool down and regulate their body temperature in hot environments or after physical activity.

If your dog is panting excessively and exhibiting other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite, it may indicate an underlying health problem that necessitates veterinary care. It's critical to keep an eye on your dog's behavior and consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns about their panting or overall health.

How Do You Cut Cavoodle Eyes?

Gather the necessary tools, such as grooming scissors and a comb, before trimming a Cavoodle's eyes. Brush out any tangles or mats around the eye area with the comb while the dog is in a comfortable and relaxed position.

Then, using the grooming scissors, carefully trim any long hairs that are obstructing the dog's vision or causing irritation. Take care not to cut too close to the dog's eye or poke him with the scissors. If you are unsure, consider hiring a professional groomer.

What is causing my Cavapoo to shed?

Cavapoos are a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles. Although hypoallergenic, which means they produce less dander and are less likely to cause allergies, they may still shed to some extent. Shedding is a natural process that occurs when dead hair falls out to make way for new hair growth.

Cavapoos shed for a variety of reasons, including genetics, seasonal shedding, stress, poor nutrition, or medical conditions. Regular grooming, a healthy diet, and addressing any underlying health issues can all help Cavapoos shed less.

[variantia]

HEADCANON.   //   ELSA.

(  VERSE.  )  that’s just the tip of the iceberg.   //   MY HERO ACADEMIA-based superhero verse.

When Elsa Nilsen first manifested her Quirk, “Glacial”, at five years old in Trondheim, Norway, neither she nor her parents expected it.   Her mother was born with a mundane Quirk that tied her to nature, but her father was Quirkless.   Where Elsa’s icy powers had come from were a mystery, especially since, in the coming years, her younger sister Anna showed no real signs of having any type of Quirk.   During childhood, a habit of not understanding the negative aspects of her Quirk combined with poor training, as her parents were unsure how to handle these powers, left Elsa with the guilt of nearly killing her sister at least once.

Her family was high in status, operating a sprawling agricultural company which Elsa was set to eventually inherit.   This was the position she was primed for, focusing on her studies while also being enrolled in one of Norway’s hero academies.   Her teachers were of little help simply because Elsa’s power was MASSIVE ; none of the staff could seem to get a handle on how to teach her, and so resorted to methods to suppress her Quirk instead of train it.   She wasn’t going to use it in her career anyway, so what was the harm ?   Because of this and her parents’ unfamiliarity with her abilities, she learned to keep her emotions inside, resulting in her having poor control over Glacial.

Due to her inability to rein in her Quirk, she failed each year to obtain a pro license, and was consistently a disaster in her internships and work studies.   All this combined led to her becoming a brilliant but isolated, reclusive student with crippling social anxiety who could hardly bear to interact with her teachers, her classmates, and her own sister.

One day, her parents left on what was supposed to be a long journey -- in reality, they were searching for answers, for experts who could more fully teach Elsa to control her powers.   Instead, they were attacked and killed by a villain who possessed a Quirk similar to Elsa’s, someone who had posed as a professor who could help their daughter.

In her grief, Elsa became even more isolated, going so far as to move to Japan in an effort to leave the past behind.   She never felt as if she fit in anywhere, and was desperate to control her Quirk.   All she could do was keep a lid on her feelings as she’d been taught, but that only seemed to make things worse, until finally Anna caught up to her.   During their ensuing argument, Elsa’s poor training resulted in her almost killing her sister again.

At last, in Japan, Elsa was able to find someone to teach her.   After attempting to contact a one Rei Todoroki, she was informed that the woman was hospitalized and in no condition to teach anyone.   However, after speaking with Rei briefly, the two women created a sort of understanding between them, relating to each other, and Rei provided a few different heroes who also had ice Quirks, “to see if you can’t find someone willing to help you.”

Inspired by her own progress within the span of a year, Elsa interned at a few agencies, entered the exams to earn her provisional hero license.   She was one of several who passed that year, two years before IZUKU MIDORIYA and his class would earn their licenses.   The time she spent within the hero community, being taught and mentored, led her to realize that this would be the greatest use of her powers.   She wanted to do good in the world, and to do it, she would need a license.

Now with her pro license in hand, Elsa was able to more fully mend her bond with Anna.   After spending three years working as a sidekick for various heroes, Elsa signed onto a new agency as a hero in her own right : PERMAFROST.   Anna, along with her husband Kristoff, returned to Norway shortly after Elsa spread her wings, so that she could run their family’s company more fully.

Currently, she works almost exclusively in Japan, though she sometimes will travel back to Norway if Anna reaches out for help.   Elsa’s rise has been meteoric, especially considering she didn’t have full control over her powers for most of her life, but in that story is something many aspiring heroes can relate to.   Elsa’s struggle with her Quirk mirrors those people who have had difficulty adapting to life with theirs, or who have been training for years without being able to perfect their abilities.   She’s also unusual in that she has, publicly, stated more than once that she believes there is good in many of the villains who oppose her or any other hero.   She is hesitant to unleash Glacial’s power on anyone she fights, preferring a pacifistic approach at first, but she will fight back if she’s left with no other option.

In Permafrost, many people see a beacon of hope.   No matter how hard it is, if you persevere, you will make it.   You CAN achieve your goal.   Even someone who has grappled with their powers for their whole life can eventually tame them.   And no matter what, you can take control of your own destiny.   You’re not stuck being what someone else wants you to be.

“   Heroes, and more importantly people, need not be afraid of failure or emotions,   ” is what she says in her most influential speech. “   If we want heroes, and people, to be better, more effective, healthier, happier -- then instead, we must come together and embrace these things.   Do not fear failure, because it will teach you more than success will.   Don’t reject your emotions, because they are a part of you.   You don’t have to hide.   SHOW YOURSELF.   We are ready for this.   We are ready for CHANGE.   ”

[sushigirlali]

The Politics of Dancing - Part IV (Reylo Fanfic)

Art by: @afterblossom

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Part I - Part II - Part III - Part IV

Summary: Ben has known Rey most of her life, but when things change between them one tumultuous night, can he convince her that they have a future? Or will secret legacies, scheming parents, and fetching suitors get in the way?

Parings: Rey + Ben Solo|Kylo Ren, Finn + Rose Tico

Continuity: Regency AU

Rating: E

A/N: With my busy schedule, it's a constant battle to find time to write, so thanks for sticking with me! As a reward, this final chapter is super long! Happy reading!

Master list –> AO3 | ff.net | Tumblr 

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The Politics of Dancing - Part IV

By: sushigirlali 

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London, December 1818

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With Rey's shout still reverberating in his ears, Ben could only gape at his father, too stunned to respond. "How is this happening?! I locked the door when we...when...oh, blast! I forgot to lock the damn door! I was too busy trying to get into Rey's knickers to think about anything else!" Mentally berating himself for being so stupid, Ben no longer wondered whether hell was real. "This is a nightmare!"

"Maybe you should cover up, or…?" Han continued after a pregnant pause, looking unnerved by Ben's blank-eyed stare.

"Ben!" Rey hissed when he continued to sit idle. "Ben, do something!"

Taking in his lover's flushed cheeks, Ben belatedly pulled the coverlet up from where it was crumpled at the foot of the bed. Settling back against the headboard with Rey curled into his side, he wrapped the blanket around them both, shielding their naked bodies from view.

"That's better," Han nodded. "Wouldn't want to shock your mother and uncle any more than necessary."

"Han," Leia said warningly. "Not now."

"What?" he said innocently.

"Don't you 'What?' me!" she glared. "Stop trying to distract from the seriousness of the situation! Our son and niece are-are fraternizing with each other and-!"

"Now, now, wife," Han interrupted before she could really get going, "we don't know all the facts yet. I'm sure there's a perfectly logical reason why they're in bed together." Leia sent Han a withering look. "Or maybe not. Son?"

"Yes, father?" Ben said tightly.

"Care to explain yourself?"

"No, father."

Han redirected his question. "Rey, how about you? Anything to say?"

Rey shook her head, eyeing Luke with a mixture of fear and concern. The old hermit had yet to speak, but the tense set of his jaw spoke volumes. Ben threw a protective arm around her, hoping to impart some measure of comfort.

"Then we can only conclude that the two of you are involved in some sort of illicit affair," his father said calmly. Despite the heavy implications of his words, Han seemed generally unperturbed by the notion.

"Excuse me?" Ben said incredulously. "You don't know the first thing about our relationship!"

"So, you are in a relationship then?" Han baited.

"Of course we are!" Ben shouted.

"Ben, don't-" Rey tried.

"Not that it's any of your damned business, old man, but we're in love! Does that assuage your sudden sense of honor? Or, were you hoping for a reason to throw me out on my ear and disinherit me?" he charged.

Han flashed him a toothy grin. "Are those my only options?"

"Oh, go to hell!"

"Benjamin Solo!" his mother reprimanded. "I hardly think you're the one who gets to be indignant under the circumstances!"

"I'm sorry, but did I break into your boudoir?" Ben sputtered.

Leia cleared her throat. "We did try knocking first."

"Not loudly enough," he said obstinately. "How did you expect this little intervention to go, anyway? Did you really think that we-ouch!" Ben grunted as Rey's elbow made contact with his ribs. "Rey? Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," she smiled, caressing the side of his stubborn face, "you don't need to defend me."

"I do," he whispered, capturing her small hand in his and carrying her knuckles to his lips. "I can't stand for you to be hurt."

"I know." Her cheeks were still stained with embarrassment, but she seemed to have regained her composure. "But there's no need to fight, my love."

"Isn't there?"

"No," she laughed. "Just tell them our news, Ben." Rey lowered her voice. "Then maybe they'll go away."

Realizing she was right, that he was arguing just to argue, Ben's combative posture abated. Rey was everything to him, so why prolong the inevitable? "We're engaged," he announced without preamble.

"Engaged?" Leia gasped, clapping her hands together. "How wonderful!"

"Wonderful?" Han did a double take. "But you just said-!"

"Our son is to be married at long last, husband, isn't that amazing?" Leia said sharply.

"I-ah-yes, my dear," he replied, clearly surprised by his wife's change in attitude. "Luke, you're awfully quiet. How do you feel about all this?"

Rey stiffened as Luke moved forward. "I'm glad that you're committed to each other, but this was not well done. By either of you."

"I-I won't say I'm sorry, father, but only hope that you can understand," Rey said slowly. "I love him."

"And I love her," Ben said, but he wasn't looking at Luke. Staring into Rey's bright eyes, Ben was startled when his mother sat down on the end of the bed.

"As happy as I am to hear that you're planning to settle down, there's something we need to tell you," she started.

"Is that something the fact that Uncle Luke has written me out of his will?" Ben queried. "Because if so, I'm already aware and I don't care."

"You're not angry?" Leia said anxiously. "About losing the Skywalker fortune?"

"I'm still going to inherit the Solo estate, aren't I? What the hell do I need two fortunes for?" he said dismissively.

"Oh, Ben," Leia smiled. She moved to hug him before thinking better about it. "Actually, no, I think I'll wait to hug you when you come downstairs to announce your engagement."

"Mother-!"

"I don't want to hear any objections from you," she shot at him, standing up again. "Rey deserves to be treated like a lady, not some harlot you picked up on the side of the road. You will clean yourselves up right this instant and rejoin the party."

"But-!"

"Son," Han grinned, "you may be all grown up, but never forget that your mother is always right."

"Right," Ben sighed. "Rey, is this okay with you?" he asked.

She smiled at him. "I think so. Now that everything is settled between us, I want everyone to know you're mine."

Ben's eyes flared at her possessive words, but he managed to answer, "Alright," without his voice quavering.

"I believe we should take our leave then," Luke said solemnly, moving to the door. "Please present yourselves downstairs within the hour."

"And no funny business!" Han warned them. "Or we'll send Uncle Chewy up next with his crossbow."

"See, I told you I would find a way to get our Ben hitched!" Leia added in a stage whisper as she followed her husband and brother out the door.

"I don't think you can reasonably take credit for the unanticipated direction of our son's love life, my dear," Han said dryly in the hall.

"Sure I can," Leia insisted as the door snapped shut once again, "and I'd like to see you try and stop me!"

——————

Shimming into her crinkled shift, Rey did her best to smooth out the creases. "Oh, what does it matter? It's not like anyone will see it under my dress," she thought, giving the exercise up for a bad job.

Pulling a clean washcloth from her dresser drawer, Rey scrubbed her face clean, not bothering to reapply any makeup. After making love with Ben and the embarrassing interrogation that had followed, it wouldn't surprise her if her cheeks were permanently pink.

"We don't have to go down, you know," Ben offered as he pulled his trousers back on. "We could just escape out the servant's entrance and elope in the country."

"I'm sure that would go over well," she snorted, sitting down at her dressing table to fix up her hair. Rey met Ben's eyes in the mirror as he came up behind her. "You know they'd just come after us. Leia especially."

"Yeah, you're probably right," he said, stalling her hands. "Now that mother knows we're getting married, I doubt we'll have a moment's peace until the deed is done."

"Without a doubt," she agreed. "What are you doing?" she added curiously, watching as he made quick work of the pins holding her coiffure in place.

"Your hair."

"Do you know how?"

"You can ask me that knowing who my mother is?" he tutted, reaching for her brush.

Rey inclined her head. "Touché."

"Hey, don't move, I'm working here!" Ben said with mock offense.

"So sorry, my lord," she played along. "It won't happen again."

They spent the next few minutes in companable silence, Rey sighing contentedly as Ben ran his large hands through her chestnut locks, separating it into equal sections. "He really seems to know what he's doing," she mused as he set her hair to rights.

"I think I could get used to this," she murmured out loud, leaning into his nimble fingers.

"Don't fall asleep now," he teased, "we wouldn't want to dally."

"Of course not," she returned, catching the reflection of his genuine smile. "Happy?"

"I feel like a weight has been lifted off my chest," he admitted, pausing to rub her shoulders. "It felt my whole life was up in the air yesterday, but now…"

Rey covered his hand and smiled in understanding. "Me too."

Ben's dark gaze clung to hers for a space of seconds, then, "You say the word and I'll throw you over my shoulder and make a mad dash for the nearest carriage."

"Oh, Ben." He sounded so serious she couldn't help but burst out laughing.

"It wasn't that funny," he said sullenly, picking up her discarded hair pins as tears of mirth streamed down her cheeks. "How do you want it styled? The same?"

Dabbing her eyes with the edge of her white chemise while the venerable Lord Ren played the maid, Rey knew without a doubt that being married to Ben Solo would be anything but boring. "Whatever style you'd like; I trust you."

——————

Less than an hour later, Rey and Ben meandered back downstairs, relieved when no one seemed to notice their reentry to the party.

Well, almost no one.

"Ben! Rey!" Leia hissed from her usual perch. "Get over here."

"Is escaping still an option?" Rey queried, grasping Ben's hand for support.

"You had your chance," he reminded her.

"I suddenly see the wisdom behind your suggestion," she said, pulling him forward with a forced smile. "Forgive me for laughing at you."

"Of course," he replied silkily, "I'm sure you'll find a way to make it up to me tonight."

Rey shivered at the sensual promise in his tone. "Now I'm really sorry we didn't leave earlier."

"I'm mollified, then," he chuckled.

"Took you long enough," Leia said once they reached her side. "I was beginning to think you'd run off."

"Surely not," Rey smiled, sidestepping her suspicions. "Do you like my hair?" Her dark locks were braided around her head like a crown, studded with jeweled pins and flowers.

"It looks lovely, dear." Scooting over on her red chaise, Leia indicated for them to sit with her. As big as Ben was, it was a tight fit. "Did Ben do it for you?"

"Yes," Rey affirmed. "You taught him well."

"I did, didn't I?" Leia said proudly.

"So, what's the plan, mother?" Ben cut to the chase, laying a casual arm behind Rey.

"Plan? What makes you think I have a plan?"

"Right, I'm sure you've been simply enjoying the party for the last hour instead of finding ways to run our lives," he said drolly.

"If you must know," Leia harrumphed, "I asked Threepio to organize a cake-"

Ben sat up straighter. "Chocolate cake?"

"What?" Leia said, distracted. "Yes, of course, chocolate, we're not going to celebrate your engagement with vanilla."

"I like vanilla," Rey said idly, amused by their antics.

"You can have vanilla for the first christening, then," Leia said pointedly.

"Oh!" Rey blushed. "Umm..."

"That's enough, mother," Ben cut in. "So, when is the announcement supposed to take place? Before or after cake?"

"Before, obviously." Leia looked around. "Ah, there's your father. I asked him to pick out a ring for you to give your bride."

"Mother!" Ben protested. "We don't need-"

"If you think for one minute that I'm going to allow my niece to walk around without an engagement ring on her finger while staying in the same house as her fiancé, you've got another thing coming," Leia snapped.

"Well, that's just-" Ben blustered.

"Fine," Rey supplied. "It's fine. For now. We can go shopping for rings next week, Ben."

"Are you sure?" he frowned.

"Yes," she said easily, giving him a look that said, "Is this really the hill you want to die on?"

"Alright," he relented. "Whatever you want, sweetheart."

"Good!" Leia said approvingly. "Now that's settled…"

"Here you are, wife," Han said graciously, presenting her with three golden rings.

Leia took them and patted her husband's cheek. "You always did have good taste, my dear."

"Sure I do. I married you, didn't I?" Han said smoothly.

Bemused by their interaction, Rey mouthed, "That'll be us one day," to Ben. He half smiled, half grimaced in response, making her giggle.

"Rey?" Leia asked, catching her attention. "Which one would you like?"

"Oh, um…" Turning to inspect the offerings, Rey immediately zeroed in on an amethyst and diamond ring that formed a forget-me-not shape, with five circular purple "petals" surrounding a stunning colorless stone. "Wow," she breathed, touching the leaf pattern embossed into the sides.

"Excellent choice," Leia beamed. "This was my mother's ring."

"Oh! Well, I can pick another…"

"Don't be ridiculous!"

"But, Leia…"

"But nothing!" she said firmly, handing the ring over to her son. "Ben, you know what to do."

"I do?" he said, nonplused.

Han whacked him upside the head. "Purpose properly, you scoundrel."

"Pot, kettle anyone?" Ben grumbled, shifting off the sofa and onto one knee.

"Ben, you don't have to—" Rey protested.

"Yes, he does," Luke said out of nowhere. "Nephew, proceed."

By now, several people had noticed that something important was going on with the Skywalker clan. Abandoning their drinks and stale conversation, the party guests formed a crowd around the small family.

"Rey Niima," Ben started a little nervously, his deep voice rolling over her like a wave, "I've known you for most of my life, for all of yours. I've watched you grow up from a precocious child into the accomplished young woman sitting before me today, and I couldn't be more proud or more in love."

Tears formed in her eyes as he reached for her left hand, carefully slipping Padmé's gorgeous ring onto her finger. Remarkably, it was a perfect fit.

"I promise to always be faithful and true, to give comfort when you're unwell, to be there for you when the children come, and to support you in all of your professional and educational aspirations." Ben brought the forget-me-not to his lips. "Rey," he breathed against her skin, "would you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?"

Although he'd asked the question before, Rey was overwhelmed by his second proposal. "I-" she choked. "Ben, I-" Unable to say the words, she grasped his long face between her hands and pulled him into a soul-shattering kiss.

"I think we'll take that as an affirmative," Han laughed, slipping an arm around his wife as Rey and Ben became lost in their own little world. "Now, cake!"

——————

Setting aside the remnants of the decadent dark chocolate cake the kitchen staff had miraculously whipped up, Rey wondered whether Ben's arm was getting tired from shaking so many hands. He was taking the attention relatively well, but she could tell the wellwishers were starting to grate on his nerves. "I better go and save him before-"

"So, you and Lord Ren, huh?" Finn teased, sidling up beside her with two flutes of champagne.

"Not a word," she warned, accepting the sparkling liquid. "But, um, since we're on the subject"-she took a sip-"does everyone know what we were...doing up there?"

Finn raised a brow. "What were you doing up there?"

"I think you know," she said, crossing her arms. "Or do we need to revisit the time I walked in on you and Rose-"

"Okay, okay! I think I can make an educated guess!" he exclaimed before lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "As for the rest of the party, well, let's just say that Han encouraged the orchestra to play very loudly."

"Oh goodness!" Rey worried her lip.

Finn paused for an extended moment before knocking his shoulder against hers. "Just kidding!" he teased. "These busybodies were much too focused on a certain Viscount and his mother to care."

"Poe?" she said with concern. "What happened?"

"A rather public disagreement," Finn informed her. "He returned shortly after you and Lord Ren absconded upstairs, and Lady Shara made a scene about him leaving your side during dinner. Obviously, she had her heart set on a match between you and her son."

"Oh, dear."

"Indeed."

Rey looked around. "Did he leave? I'd like to speak with him. I feel at least partly responsible for his unpleasant evening."

"No, Lady Shara left in a huff right after your engagement was announced, but Poe stayed." Finn nodded toward the refreshment table. "He's standing over there with Lady Maz and Lord Chewbacca."

"Oh! Good!" Rey raised her glass to gain Poe's attention. "Do you think he's angry with me for going off with Ben?"

"Of course not," Finn dismissed as Poe politely excused himself. "You see? He's coming over."

"That's a relief," Rey smiled as the young Viscount joined them.

"Friends," he said warmly, shaking Finn's hand and kissing Rey on the cheek. "I overheard Lord Ren's proposal, Rey. I had no idea he could be so loquacious! Congratulations, love."

"Thank you," she laughed, crinkling her nose. "To think, I was complaining about him only hours ago."

"Now that I didn't find surprising," Poe chuckled.

"Oh, haha," Rey mocked. "But enough about me, what about you? Finn told me what happened with Lady Shara."

"I'm fine," Poe said haltingly. "You know how my mother can be."

"I'm sorry if I-"

"Stop," he said kindly. "You've done nothing wrong. You're in love and I'm thrilled for you."

Rey nodded, realizing he wanted the topic dropped for now. "Thank you, Poe."

"You're welcome," he said sincerely. Then, grinning, "So, you and Lord Ren, huh?"

"Oh, you two!" Rey flushed, playfully swatting at her friends. "You're the worst kind of troublemakers!"

"I couldn't agree more," Ben joked, suddenly joining their group.

"Ben," Rey said warningly, "you promised."

"That I did," Ben sighed. "Dameron, Johnson," he said respectfully, nodding to each man in turn. Or, as respectfully as one could while looking like they had a bee in their bonnet. "Good evening."

"Solo," they acknowledged, following Ben's lead and using his much less formal surname.

An awkward silence fell as everyone waited for someone else to speak. "This is going well," Rey thought wryly. But just as she opened her mouth, Ben started giving their excuses.

"Right. Well. I appreciate you keeping my fiancé company," he said with a straight face, "but I must pull her away for a few moments. Uncle Luke has something he wishes to share we us." Ben paused, looking a little too pleased with himself. "A family matter, you understand."

"Certainly," Finn said courteously.

"If you must," Poe drawled.

"Right now?" Rey queried.

"Uh, yes," Ben confirmed, taking her half full flute and handing it to a passing waiter. "Come along, Rey. Uncle Luke musn't be kept waiting."

"Since when does Ben care about inconveniencing Luke?" Curious now, Rey looped her arm through Ben's as she bade her companions adieu, allowing him to steer her toward Luke's private study. "I wonder what father wants to talk about?"

——————

Ben was nervous. Luke hadn't specified what this-meeting? lecture?-was about when he'd tersely ordered, "You and Rey, my office, now," a few minutes ago. The old man was a curmudgeon to be sure, but his attitude since finding them together in flagrante delicto was starting to unsettle him.

Despite appearing to approve of their engagement, Ben was worried that he'd changed his mind. What if Luke forbade him from marrying his daughter? Would he be forced to challenge his own uncle over Rey's hand? The thought wasn't pleasing, but he would do anything to secure a future with the woman he loved.

"Ben?" Rey whispered once they were outside Luke's door. "Is everything okay?"

Relaxing his hold, Ben tried to calm down. "Yes, I'm just...I'm not sure what Luke is going to say."

"It won't matter," she reassured him.

"But what if-!"

"I'm nervous too," she admitted, turning to embrace him, "but nothing he says will change how I feel about you."

Ben buried his face in her hair, breathing in the flowery scent he always associated with her. "I know."

——————

Briskly knocking on the mahogany door, Rey jumped when Luke promptly opened it. "Was he pacing by the door?"

"Good, you're here. Come in, come in," Luke bade.

"Is everything alright?" she said quietly, noting the large cup of brandy sitting atop his desk as he ushered them inside.

"I'm not sure," Luke said enigmatically. He indicated the sapphire blue wingbacks stationed in front of his desk. "Please."

The chairs were close enough that Ben didn't have to release her hand as they sat, and given their brief conversation in the hall, she wasn't surprised when he didn't. "He's worried Luke will scorn our love, but that's not it. Something else is going on. I can feel it."

"The reason I've called you in here…that is to say...I just wanted to..." Luke broke off, taking a gulp of liquid courage before trying again. "Rey, I have something important to confess...well, maybe not confess so much as...umm..."

"Father, what's going on?" It was strange to see Luke so flustered.

"I'm not usually one to mince words," he said candidly, "but I fear what I have to say will turn you against me forever."

"Father, I'm sure-!"

"No, let me speak while I have the nerve," he said, stalling her interjection. "Rey, there's a piece of information about...about your parents that I've been keeping from you all these years."

Rey sat up straighter while Ben tensed beside her. "Are they alive?!" she demanded.

"No," Luke said hurriedly, "no, they're gone."

"Then what is it?" she asked, bracing herself for the truth.

"I asked my private investigator to confirm that their deaths were accidental, to ensure your safety, you see, but what he found was quite unsettling."

"Were they murdered?" she gasped.

Luke shook his head. "No, they weren't murdered," he assured her. "But although it was an accident, it was an accident of their own making."

"I don't understand."

"Simply put, Lord Niima liked to gamble and Lady Niima liked the finer things. So, by the time you were born, your parents were severely in debt to all the wrong sorts of people. They tried everything they could to get out of it, to give you the life you deserve, but...when the deal they made to sell off their holdings and repay their creditors fell through…"

"They set fire to their own facility," Rey whispered, deflating against the plush blue chair. "They left me," she thought numbly.

"There was an insurance policy they hoped to collect, I presume," Ben said woodenly. Rey felt him lift her hand to his lips, but she was too caught up in her own terrible thoughts to react.

"Yes, there was." Luke reached into a drawer and pulled out a dusty roll of parchment. "I've been keeping this for you until you were older, Rey."

"I can't believe they were so selfish. Luke would never take a chance so great knowing that he had me to look out for," Rey mused. "In fact, what do I even really know about my birth parents save for a few half-remembered dreams? They were never home, never played with me, or gave me comfort. They were nothing like Luke or the rest of the Skywalkers...they were nothing like my family…"

"What is it?" Ben inquired when Rey didn't respond.

"Lord Niima's will."

"They left her with nothing, didn't they?" Ben said angrily. "That's why you adopted her all those years ago, why you made her your heir."

"Yes," Luke acknowledged. "I couldn't let an innocent child be cast aside due to the fault of their parents or society's expectations."

"Certainly not," Ben agreed. "But what about the insurance money?" he said curiously. "Did the inspectors figure out who was responsible for starting the fire?"

"No, they ruled it a simple accident," Luke said solemnly, "and I didn't correct them."

"I'm surprised at you, uncle."

"It's true I don't bend the rules often, but I wanted to spare Rey any repercussions lest the truth become known."

Ben nodded in understanding. "So, what happened next?"

"After becoming Rey's legal guardian, I assumed control of the insurance pay out and used it to clear the Niima's debts and close their accounts." Luke frowned. "I would have helped them had they asked, but I was unaware of their dire circumstances. We were friends for a long time, so I'm sorry that I-"

"No!" Rey said firmly, coming back to herself. "No, father, you're not at fault here. There's nothing you could have done to prevent their deaths."

"But what if-!"

"No," she said again, more warmly this time. "You're the best parent a girl could ask for. I've never wanted for anything, never doubted your love for me. I'm sorry that Lord and Lady Niima died the way they did, but they're gone and we're not."

"Rey, daughter," Luke said emotionally, "you're too forgiving."

"It's in the past," she returned softly. Then, glancing at Ben, "Us Skywalkers, we're a family, and there's nothing that can't be forgiven between family."

Luke smiled for the first time in days. "I'm glad to hear it." He came around the desk and leaned down to kiss her cheek. "You've certainly grown up, my Rey, but I'll always be here for you."

Rey pulled Ben up with her before hugging her father. "I'm glad to hear it," she echoed. "And don't forget: our relationship goes both ways; I'll always be here for you too."

"Thank you, my dear girl," he said, kissing her again. "And you!" Luke called, holding his hand out to Ben when Rey stepped back. "I expect you to take great care of my daughter, nephew."

Ben accepted Luke's hand with a laugh, pulling him into a tight bear hug much to the older gentleman's chagrin. Giggling as Luke struggled in her fiancé's unbreakable grasp, Rey realized she felt completely free from the uncertainties in her past. Now, she only looked forward to her future. And what a bright future it would be.

——————

London, December 1819

——————

Despite several offers to visit the family jeweler during their short engagement, Rey had decided against asking Ben for a new ring. She'd gotten used to seeing the lovely forget-me-not on her ring finger everyday, and much preferred it to buying some banal bauble in a fancy shop.

Truth be told, the heirloom reminded her that although her own mother's ring had been lost to frivolous pursuits, it didn't mean that she would suffer the same fate. She had family, friends, and a husband who made her happier than she ever dreamed of being.

"Speaking of, I wonder when-ah, there he is." Rey smiled as Ben entered the dining room and sat down beside her. "Good morning, love."

"Morning," he said groggily, leaning over to give her a sweet kiss. "Mother," he nodded.

"Hello," Leia said without looking up from her breakfast. "Sleep well?"

"Something like that," Ben murmured, giving Rey a heated look.

"That's nice," Leia yawned, buttering a thick piece of toast.

Knowing exactly why Ben was so exhausted, Rey tried not to look too pleased with herself. They'd barely spent a day-or night-apart since marrying in the spring, just a few months after Ben's proposal last Christmas. Leia had insisted on a quick turnaround just in case Rey was increasing, but they hadn't been blessed with children as of yet.

"Finn proposed to Rose Tico last week," Rey said to the room at large. "I just received a note from him this morning. He said he's going to bring her to the Christmas party tomorrow night."

"Hmm, that's nice," Leia said idly.

"Really?" Ben said, sounding far more interested.

"Yes!" Rey replied brightly. "I'm so happy for them. It was an uphill battle, you know. Finn's family wanted an heiress for him."

"I'm glad they were able to overcome his family's objections," Ben said kindly.

"Me too," she beamed.

"Is Poe coming as well?"

"Of course, though without Lady Shara this year."

"Such a shame."

"Isn't it though?" Rey laughed. "Oh, have you seen father this morning by any chance? He wasn't in his room when I stopped by."

"I haven't," Ben said, blowing on his tea, "but he seems to be spending quite a lot of time in the gardens since moving back to the Manor. You might find him there."

"Thank you for the tip, I'll check after breakfast," Rey said. She gave him a private glance. "I think it's time we shared our news, don't you?"

"I do," Ben grinned. "Tonight's dinner will be family only, right, mother?"

"What? Oh, yes," Leia said between bites of toast. "Is there anything in particular you'd like for dessert, my darlings? Threepio said the servants are going to market this afternoon for some more ingredients. They seem to think tonight is a special affair, heaven knows why."

Rey smiled as Ben poured her more tea and added some salty bacon to her plate. "Oh, really? Well, how about a nice big vanilla cake then? I think it might be fitting for the occasion!"

-FIN-

——————

A/N: I'm so excited that I was able to get tickets for Star Wars Celebration 2019 and can't wait to hang out with my Reylo besties! It's going to be a wild time after TRoS comes out and all our Reylo dreams come true! May the Force be with you, friends!

[historicfailure]

Weekly Heads-Up

Another Sunday, another heads-up ;)

Coming Up:

The Spy!Reader who wants to kill Kakashi-request! Yes, I finally managed to finish one thing, and I hope that I can post it sometime next week? I don’t have an exact timeslot for that yet, but next week is safe.

Working On:

The 10th chapter of EML. Yeah, As always, I hopefully can get it done in 2 weeks, but more information will come the closer that appointment comes ^^’‘ (I’m pretty positive tbh)

the Madara request! This will be more in my focus from now on, so I can hopefully also get it out soon and present it! It took a really unexpected turn, but... yeah, I still like it a lot? Because it still works with the request and with the start I’ve written so far? We will see ^^’‘

and with the end of my long series “Find the Right One” dawning upon me (in a bit, not immediately!), I already thought about what I will tackle next out of my stack of long fics. Probably, I will go with a work which was my very, very first fic I wrote (out of boredom during uni, lol), of course reworked and rewritten (right now, almost everything I have for that exists in notebooks only ^^’‘). 

I will include here the very first scene I had in mind for the fic, which will include an Original Character (I’m still working on her skills tbh, I don’t want to make her too overpowered) and how exactly everything is going down, but I’m pretty sure it will be another 50+chapter fic ^^’‘

So, here it is, the first scene from my work with the working title : “A Dragon’s Heart”. (Pretty standard, but I was young and foolish back then ;))

It was another peaceful day at the Hidden Leaf Village. The war between the last remains of Akatsuki and the alliance of the Five Great Shinobi Nations was over and most of the damage caused by Pain was repaired. Young children played again cheerfully in the streets, elders chatted about the ‘good old times’ and some busy shinobi leaped across the roofs, doing some missions or were on the way to one. It was the end of October, but fall wasn’t eager to come over Konohagakure, so the sun shone brightly on the people and a gentle breeze ruffled through the trees. It was warm, but not too warm, the perfect weather for a walk, a friendly get-together with comrades or a delicious cup of ramen at Ichiraku’s. Speaking of Ichiraku’s, in front of the little restaurant waited Konohas most unpredictable ninja number one for his team, Naruto Uzumaki. Once in a while people greeted him friendly and he, still not accustomed to his sudden popularity waved childishly at them, a sheepish grin on his face. His blond hair swayed in the wind and the cerulean blue eyes, inherited from his father, blinked whenever a child looked in awe up to him. 

“Naruto!” He nearly jumped at the loud yell from the pinkhaired kunoichi of Team 7, Sakura Haruno. Like her master Tsunade, her voice could be heard all over the village (if she wanted). Right beside her walked the last Uchiha, who got back to his hometown only a few weeks ago: Sasuke Uchiha. The raven hair was still in the style of his childhood days, but to show his changed state of mind to the villagers, he no longer wore the clothes that he was cladded in as a nukenin. Instead a Konoha chunin vest, the standard black pants of ninjas and combat boots were now his style, together with forearm protectors, which blinked in the sunlight and a simple black long sleeved shirt underneath the vest. His new forehead protector, without the deep scratch, was proudly tied around his head, showing everyone that he was once again a trusted guard of the village.

“Sakura-chan!” screamed Naruto in delight and bounced up and down. “Finally! I waited ten minutes or so for you! I’m so hungry!” She rolled her seagreen eyes in annoyance.

“You waited ten minutes and want to complain? Then wait for Kakashi-sensei, you know how he is!” With these words the girl entered the stall, where Teuchi and Ayame already prepared Narutos dish, not waiting for her raven companion. Sasuke sighed inwardly, then looked into the eyes of his long-time rival.

“Dobe.”

“Teme.”

For a moment, the two teens relived the rivalry of their childhood. An intense glare battle begun and some people walking by could almost see the quick flashes that were exchanged. Then Naruto blinked and broke into a goofy grin, while Sasuke smiled only a little, but a genuine smile. They nodded at each other and together they followed their teammate inside the ramen stand, who had ordered the usual for “her” boys. Teuchi, the owner of Ichiraku’s, was excited to see his dearest customer.

“Hey Naruto! Good to see you again! And you too, Sasuke, Sakura.” he greeted and stirred at the same time in a large pot, filled with the delicious soup of ramen. 

The three teammates greeted back and waited patiently for their orders and the last part of the team, Kakashi, who was late like always. After a short time, he strolled inside and sat down on a chair, his eyes never leaving the well-known favorite book of his. Naruto and Sakura yelled at him. “You’re late, Kakashi-sensei!”

The copy-nin flipped a page. “Sorry I’m late, but there was a gigantic beetle down the street and the Aburame-clan wanted to capture it desperately and as a fellow comrade I had to help them.”

“That’s a lie!” shouted the blonde and the pinkette furiously, while Sasuke just snorted. Finally Kakashi looked up from “Icha-Icha-Violence”, naturally beforehand marking the page and smiled his infamous ‘I’m-sorry-not-sorry-smile’.

“You’re right.”

Since the end of the war and the second death of Obito, the scarecrow had lost his Sharingan and looked again with his own two eyes at the world around him. Only his mask covered the lower part of his face and couldn’t conceal the new light in his eyes when he glanced at his students, who were like in the old times together and acting like they never separated. Ayame, the daughter of Teuchi, brought four cups of ramen.

“One beef!”

“That’s mine, believe it!”

“One plain, with some extra tomato.”

“Hn.”

“One seafood.”

“Thank you Ayame.”

“And another plain one.”

Only the sound of turning pages answered.The blonde jinchuriki clapped cheerfully his hands, drool already filling his mouth. “Itadakimasu!”

The reunited Team 7 enjoyed the time together at this beautiful day. Slowly, clouds emerged on the blue late summer sky, but only the white fluffy ones. Another indicator for a nice, normal day at Konohagakure.

But a mysterious figure walked down the sandy road to the mighty gates and with each step, the anxiety and nervousness in him grew. Underneath the thick pitch black cloak it must be hot as hell, but the person didn’t lift the hood, instead he pulled it even deeper into the face. His left leg was burning and he limped heavily, however the person took step after step, not caring about the sting of pain whenever he placed his bad foot on the ground. As the gates got into sight, the mysterious person stopped. Sharp eyes trailed over the familiar structures, down to the little office were the gatekeepers sat, two chunin who seemed to play a card game to pass the time.

Under the hood, the persons lips faintly curled into a gentle smile.             

‘Nothing has changed… 5 years… Was it really such a long time?            

Just wait a little bit longer, my sisters. Soon you will be free again.’

[...]

There are a lot of plot points and twists in this fic, but I’m definitely looking forward to it! But it’s not the only option, so let me know what you think about this little snippet! I would be happy to hear abotu your opinion!

Otherwise, there’s nothing much to say. I returned to my dorm in Scotland and have to write now my master dissertation, so we will see how that goes ^^’‘

And thats that for this week! Thank you all for the reactions to the last chapter of EML, it really makes my day to see what your thoughts are ^^

[bluemoonfantasiesiii]

Vincent was not far bit decided not to speak of it here and now, in the other hand he had his messy little girl with all giggly and plate full of many good food and oh so good was lucky for some ladies were actually making sure she eat slow and well 'what a mess~' he thought with smile "what's wrong? You look like an old man! Your compan and his nephew are eating better than you today! Come on! Don't be shy, Vin!" The captain said and patted his back a bit harsher catching the other of guard he coughed a little "sorry! Lily, don't forget to be fine not too full! You can see the stars at night if you sleep earlier" he warned her and she nodded understanding that and was done by the last bite. The crew by her side wiped her face and took her off to the water bowl to wach up and have her with them on the deck "is it safe?" Vincent sounded really panicked now "Hahaha! Calm down, Man! You know how much these guys loves kids! Let alone their doctor's little sea lady!" The older man said trying to calm the worried father "I know but... ahh.. fine, I'll trust them. after all, they are your team!" He said knowing he is a little overreacting since it's the first time on ship only "that's the spirit! Now finish up and follow up! I found something for you!" He said laughing and left not giving a chance for a question.

"And here we go again! Same as first time!" The young artist sighed and tried to finish his meal as the second half of the crew came in

“I hope I can keep myself up late enough to see the stars,” Rubedo said.

“Perhaps having such direct exposure to the sun out on the open sea will give you a bit of extra energy for when night falls,” Albedo suggested.

“I hope so! I’d feel bad if you had to carry me to bed, too.”

Albedo chuckled. “You certainly didn’t inherit that consideration from your father,” he teased.

“Hmm… I think I got it from Noelle and Ms. Amber,” Rubedo teased back.

[sanjay-chem]

Pure Red Cell Aplasia Market Top Scenario, SWOT Analysis, Business Overview, Forecast 2030

Pure red cell aplasia is a type of rare disorder related to the production of blood in the body. Spongy tissue between bone marrow fails to produce sufficient blood for the body leading to anaemic conditions. In pure red cell aplasia, only red blood cells of the blood are affected, whereas white blood cells are at normal levels.

Red blood cells play a key role in carrying oxygen in the body. Pure red cell aplasia leads to increased heart rate, decrease in physical activity and pale appearance. Pure red cell aplasia can be acquired or genetic.

According to the National Organization of Rare Disorders, globally there are approximately 5000 active cases of Diamond Blackfan Anaemia which is inherited pure red cell aplasia.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the lockdown has been implemented in several countries leading to delay of manufacturing activities and disruption of supply chain impacting pure red cell aplasia market. There has been a significant decline in hospital visits and treatment adoption amid pandemic delaying the growth of pure red cell aplasia market.

Request a free sample to obtain authentic analysis and comprehensive market insights at- https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-12574

There has been a shift of focus of leading biopharmaceuticals towards developing coronavirus cure, hence delay in research and development activities of pure red cell aplasia market.

Unmet need of the therapy and rise in prevalence of rare anaemic disorders increases the demand for pure red cell aplasia market. Increasing collaborative research and development activities among leading biopharmaceutical innovative players are expected to fuel the growth of pure red cell aplasia market.

For instance, in March 2018 Novartis AG’s New Drug Application was accepted by U.S. Food and Drug Administration and granted priority review designation for its drug used in first-line treatment of pure red cell aplasia. Advancement in technology creates therapeutic options and hence propel pure red cell aplasia market growth.

The stringent regulatory requirement for drug approval is challenging pure red cell aplasia market growth.

Immunosuppressant holds a major revenue share of pure red cell aplasia market. Whereas, the corticosteroid is expected to observe significant growth with increased demand in pure red cell aplasia market. Oral route of administration is most common in pure red cell aplasia market.

The intravenous route of administration also holds significant share for cell transfusion in pure red cell aplasia market. Hospital pharmacies is the largest distribution channel in pure red cell aplasia market with the high patient population.

On the other hand, online pharmacies segment is expected to observe an exponential rise in pure red cell aplasia market with increased penetration of e-commerce in the market.

Discover more about report analysis with figures and data tables, along with the table of contents. Request for TOC- https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-12574

North America will continue to dominate the pure red cell aplasia market in the coming decade with a high rate of approvals and commercialization of pharmaceutical drugs. The high rate of prevalence of anaemia increases the demand for pure red cell aplasia market in North America.

Europe is the second leading region in pure red cell aplasia market with advanced diagnostic and treatment technology. Asia-pacific is lucrative with a higher growth rate in the pure red cell aplasia market during the forecast period with increasing domestic players in the region.

Poor economic conditions in the Middle East and Africa make them untapped regions with fewer growth opportunities for pure red cell aplasia market.

Some key players contributing in pure red cell aplasia market are

F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG

Bayer AG

Novartis AG

Johnson & Johnson

Pfizer Inc.

Merck & Co.Inc.

Bristol Myers Squibb Company

Amgen Inc.

AbbVie Pharmaceuticals

Eli Lilly and Company

Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc.

GlaxoSmithKline plc.

Seattle Genetics

Sanofi S.A.

Biogen Inc.

AstraZeneca PLC

[mokosmart]

Everything about Bluetooth SIG Mesh

Bluetooth SIG mesh is a Bluetooth technology owned by Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). It was launched in July 2017. Generally, it can be defined as computer networking that allows communication between many-to-many communiqué devices.

It’s perfectly designed to enable extensive networking among devices. According to Bluetooth SIG, Bluetooth mesh was created to suitably build automation and offer several Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, where thousands of devices can communicate effectively and securely.

It also allows thousands of nodes to communicate efficiently without any connection but within the same network. It is a reliable method of sharing information in large networks.

How Does Bluetooth Mesh Work?

Bluetooth mesh operates under one principle; Flood network. This is where the nodes relay messages in a certain manner, either in uncontrolled flooding or controlled flooding.

In uncontrolled flooding, every node shares the same message to all its neighbors unconditionally. In controlled flooding, each node plays both roles of transmitting or receiving the message.

Bluetooth Mesh has a message cache that prevents conveying similar messages or messages relayed recently. The figure below shows how a Bluetooth mesh network operates.

Characteristics of Messages Relayed In Bluetooth Mesh

1. All messages relayed must begin with an opcode as shown below;

2. All messages have the sender and receiver addresses.

3. They all have sequence numbers which are essential as they defend the network against all attacks.

4. They all have time to live (TTL).

5. They are all encrypted and authenticated using the following keys;

· Network keys

· Application keys

6. Each message sent should not exceed 384 bytes. However, most of the messages relayed are 11 bytes long.

The Bluetooth Mesh works flawlessly in a network of several compatible devices like;

· Laptops

· Smartphone

· Televisions

· Desktops

· Speakers

· Headphones

· Other low power devices

BLE Mesh Communication Protocols

Bluetooth mesh uses a variety of protocol stacks during communication. The core stacks are divided into two;

· Host stack, which deals with high-level data and acts as a segment of the operating system.

· Controller stack

However, the most important component of the Bluetooth communication protocol is the Generic Access Profile (GAP). This element of Bluetooth mesh technology manages the scanning and broadcasting processes of all Bluetooth devices.

GAP also plays an important role in controlling how the devices connect to other nearby devices. Bluetooth 4.1 and 5.0 enables all devices to connect and broadcast data directly to other devices.

Advantages of Bluetooth Mesh

Although many solutions have been offered using different wireless technologies, the best is Bluetooth Mesh technology. It has several advantages over other wireless networks. Read on.

1. It’s more reliable as it provides vendor interoperability. For instance, Nordic Bluetooth Mesh technologies, especially nRF52 Series Soc and nRF Bluetooth Mesh, are reliable, as they have multiple paths from sender to receiver, which operate without failure. The Bluetooth mesh stack in this nRF helps in implementing Bluetooth mesh profile specifications.

2. It extends range, unlike other wireless technologies like WI-FI.

3. It uses low energy, especially Bluetooth low-energy mesh.

4. It can operate efficiently on other existing Bluetooth hardware, especially Bluetooth 4.0.

5. It is more secure than other wireless networks. For instance, all messages in this technology are encrypted and authenticated.

6. It is quick and easy to install.

Application of Bluetooth Mesh Network

Bluetooth mesh network is widely used globally. It’s used in education sectors, health centers, cities and many other places, where other wireless networks become unreliable.

1. Bluetooth Mesh in Schools

University and college students and staff widely use Bluetooth Mesh. This technology is also being embraced in high schools.

It is convenient in education centers as it can help students and lecturers download large learning files, especially when WI-FI becomes unreliable. Also, due to the wide internet connection coverage by Bluetooth mesh, students and staff’s security is guaranteed as they can get information easily in case of emergency.

2. Bluetooth Mesh in Cities

With Bluetooth mesh, it’s now easy for cities to connect citizens with this connection. Commuters can easily check their emails and other social networks wherever they are around the city. The technology has also enhanced security in towns as communication through the internet is easy and quick in emergency cases.

3. Bluetooth Mesh in Health Centers

Many hospitals prefer Bluetooth mesh network instead of traditional ones as they are convenient and easy to install. Internet connectivity in this sector is vital as patients’ files need to be updated every day for convenience. Also, doctors can track patients and other colleagues from their laptops or tablets on the premises easily.

4. Bluetooth Mesh in the Hospitality Sector

Bluetooth mesh technology has become the rule in most restaurants and hotels around the globe. It is easy and quick to install both outdoors and indoors. It’s effective than a wired network, especially during outdoor concerts in these resorts. It’s also less expensive as compared to WI-FI.

5. Bluetooth Mesh in Warehouses

Most modern warehouses depend on this technology to keep track of all warehouse logistics.

Security in Bluetooth Mesh Network

One major issue that need to be addressed concerning Internet of Things is security. It is a reoccurring concern that can interfere with the Internet of Things benefits like convenience and flexibility. It should be the number one priority, especially in Bluetooth mesh networking.

The main reason why Bluetooth mesh security should be mandatory is that many devices are involved. Generally, it is built on thousands of Bluetooth mesh devices that communicate with each other. However, in Bluetooth low-energy mesh, security is optional as only a single device is involved.

Fundamentals of Bluetooth Mesh Security

These security statements should apply to all Bluetooth mesh networking devices.

1. Encryption and authentication

All the messages shared among the Bluetooth mesh networking devices must be encrypted and authenticated to enhance security.

2. Separation of concerns

Three types of security keys are used in Bluetooth mesh network security. They include;

· App keys, which address application security concerns.

· Network keys (Netkey), which solves network security issues.

· Device key (Devkey), which address device security issues.

All of them are used to tackle different security issues in Bluetooth mesh networking. In other words, all security issues are addressed independently.

3. Area isolation

In Bluetooth mesh, the network is sometimes divided into different subnets. In this case, each subnet is given its own key and can only communicate with subnets with the same key.

4. Key refresh

As seen above, most Bluetooth mesh nodes have their special security keys. But these keys might need replacement in case a node becomes faulty. In this case, a key refresh procedure is done, and all other nodes are issued with new security keys.

5. Message obfuscation

Obfuscation prevents the messages sent within the network from being tracked. It also ensures that nodes are secure.

6. Replay attack protection

A replay attack is where an eavesdropper captures a message being transmitted and retransmits it later to make the recipient to do something that the invader is not allowed to do. The Bluetooth mesh security helps in preventing such episodes.

7. Trashcan attack protection

When faulty nodes are removed from the network, they can no longer use their network keys as the remaining nodes are issued with new keys. This helps in preventing trashcan attacks.

8. Secure device provisioning

The process of adding more nodes and devices to Bluetooth mesh network is safe and secure.

Bluetooth Mesh Software Development Kit

To benefit maximally from the Bluetooth mesh features, you need Bluetooth mesh software. Some of the features that the Bluetooth mesh development kit helps improve are;

· Angle of arrival (AoA)

· Angle of departure (AoD)

·  2M and LE Long Range PHYs

· Advertisement sets

· LE Data Length Extensions

· LE Dual Topology

· Scan event reporting LE Secure connections

Are Products Embracing Bluetooth Mesh Technology?

Various products in the market are using this Bluetooth technology. For a product to have Bluetooth mesh networking potential, it must undergo a Bluetooth mesh qualification process. This ensures that it has all the Bluetooth requirements.

Read on for the Bluetooth qualification process that all products must undergo to qualify as Bluetooth mesh products.

Bluetooth Qualification Process

This process enables the companies that want their products to be enabled with Bluetooth features to comply with;

· Bluetooth patent and copyright license agreement.

· Bluetooth trademark license agreement.

· Bluetooth specifications.

To qualify for this process, your products must have all Bluetooth designs. This means they must have the required hardware and software for Bluetooth mesh specifications as explained in the Bluetooth mesh profile.

To qualify your products, you need to keep in mind various things;

1. For your creation to be considered as a Bluetooth product, qualification process is key.

Even if your supplier’s product has undergone a qualification process, your products must also undergo the process. In short, you can’t inherit the qualification rights from your supplier.

Also, the product can complete the qualification process successfully if it’s under the Member Company’s account and not under the supplier’s account.

2. Check the qualification of the products if you are reselling.

It’s always advisable to check whether the products you are reselling from another company have completed the qualification process. This is important, especially if you are reselling it as a Bluetooth mesh product.

3. Don’t market your products if not completed the qualification process.

It’s illegal to sell your merchandise as Bluetooth enhanced products when not qualified yet. You can only distribute them after the qualification process is successful. Also, during the process, ensure you give the correct details that exactly match your products.

Latest versions of Bluetooth Mesh

Internet of things wireless communication technology is experiencing a lot of issues. The solution to these issues is the introduction of the latest versions of Bluetooth mesh. One of these versions that are widely used around the globe is Bluetooth 5.0 mesh network.

Overview of Bluetooth 5.0 mesh

This Bluetooth specification was unveiled in 2016. It was mainly an improvement of Bluetooth 4. Some of these improvements that make the two versions different as shown in the illustration below;

From the above table, it’s evident that the Bluetooth 5.0 mesh has more improved features that can help solve some of the internet of things issues. These features include;

· Improved speed

· Increased message length

· Increased message sending capacity

· Increased data transfer rate

· Increased output power

· Increased range

All the above features make Bluetooth 5 mesh more advantageous than other versions like Bluetooth 4.0. All latest smart devices now support this version of Bluetooth technology.

Other Bluetooth 5.0 Mesh Features

Other things that this latest version of Bluetooth brings to the table include the following;

1. Bluetooth low-energy for headphones

 Bluetooth low-energy uses less power as devices communicate with each other. The feature is essential for devices like phones and headphones as they rely on batteries for power.

Although Bluetooth low-energy was introduced and enabled in Bluetooth 4.0 mesh, it wasn’t as helpful as in Bluetooth 5. It was only applicable to small internet of things devices, wearable, and beacons. Therefore, headphones and other large gadgets would continue using high-power Bluetooth connections.

All devices can now communicate over Bluetooth low-energy with the introduction of Bluetooth 5 mesh. This increases the battery life of these communication devices.

2. Bluetooth dual audio

 This simply means connecting more than one audio device to a source. For instance, you can connect two headphones or two speakers to your laptop. This is possible with Bluetooth 5.0 mesh.

Other Certified Bluetooth Mesh Models

ESP32 Bluetooth mesh is another model of this Bluetooth technology that is certified by Bluetooth SIG. It’s features include;

1. Has Both Bluetooth and WI-FI Chips

ESP32 has SPI and SDIO interfaces that enable it to provide Bluetooth and WI-FI functionalities. It can also perform as a standalone system, and can be used for various applications.

2. Has a Robust design

ESP32 performs effectively in industrial environments under –40°C to +125°C temperature range.

3. It Has Ultra-Low Power Consumption

ESP32 is effectively used in internet of things applications and mobile devices as it consumes low power. It has dynamic power modes and power scaling features.

4. It Is Highly Integrated

ESP32 is in-built with various features that make your applications function properly. They include;

· Filters

· Power amplifiers

· Antenna switches

· Power management modules

· Low noise amplifiers

Future of Bluetooth Models

There is a major development in Bluetooth technology as it is opening new and great opportunities for innovators to experiment and show their creativity. The Bluetooth Special Interest group has recently announced the development of Bluetooth 5.1 mesh.

Although it may take some time for Bluetooth 5.1 to be functional in most Bluetooth mesh devices, it will soon find its way. This technology will have various new features, as discussed below.

1. Improved Accuracy

The current Bluetooth technology, especially Bluetooth 5.0, can tell how far a device is by detecting its signal strength. But it cannot guess the direction of that device, i.e., where the device is heading or coming from.

Interestingly, the new Bluetooth 5.1 technology will have this direction-finding feature. This technology will have the ability to assess the device’s exact location, the direction it’s coming from, and the distance.

Therefore, this Bluetooth technology will be vital in the future for easier tracking of networking devices. For instance, if you lose your smartphone or laptop, the direction feature will make the search process quicker and easier.

2. Improved Connection Speed

Bluetooth 5.1 will be connecting to other devices faster than Bluetooth 5.0 as it will have better caching. The technology will also save the time customers spend going through service discovery as they connect to Bluetooth. This will make the connection faster.

3. Less Power Consumption

Like Bluetooth 5.0, this new Bluetooth technology will be low-energy. This means that even as it performs all its functions aggressively, the power consumption rate is low.

4. Advertising Advancements

Bluetooth 5.1 will have more developments on connection advertisements. This means it will have several connections to announce its presence to all nearby Bluetooth devices. The technology will also help reduce the chances of interference when several Bluetooth devices are in the same area.

What Does A Wireless Mesh Network Do?

A wireless mesh network is a network device formed by several wireless radios with software that helps them work harmoniously without coordination. This technology is different from traditional networks, as it has no central coordination or computer to handle all the network traffic. Instead, the devices communicate with each other easily and efficiently.

The wireless mesh network has wirelessly connected routers, which act as wireless access points for its customers, such as smartphones and laptops.

These routers are connected via a backbone that resembles a mesh-like structure. For the customers to send or receive information, this mesh-like backbone network is used.  The routers also help these clients to access the network.

To connect to the internet, an external network, you must connect some routers to a wired network. These routers help in acting as gateways.

Types of Wireless Mesh Network

This technology is divided into two topologies;

· Partially-connected mesh network

· Fully-connected mesh network

Fully-connected is the one that creates a mesh-like pattern of network connections. In this technology, all nodes are connected to each other and communicate harmoniously. Also, the nodes must cooperate as they distribute information.

In partially-connected technology, some nodes will be inter-connected, and they communicate through hubs and switches.

The figure below shows how a wireless mesh network works in the process of sharing the internet.

   As you can see in the figure above, only one node is required to be wired to the internet in a wireless mesh network. It then shares an internet connection with all the nodes near it wirelessly. So, all these nodes require a power supply like solar panels or batteries but not wires to function outdoors.

Do Mesh Networks Really Work?

Yes. Mesh networks function perfectly in connecting the entire city to a network. It does this through wireless, reliable, and existing technology.

Unlike traditional networks, which rely on wired technology to connect users, wireless mesh networks rely on several wireless mesh nodes to connect users in a whole city to a network.

Advantages of Mesh Network

1. It’s Scalable

Every node in the mesh network acts as a router. It’s, therefore, not necessary for additional routers. So, you can conveniently increase the size of your network, depending on your needs.

For instance, if you want to add some desktops and smartphones to a meeting room, you can do it easily. The best part is the added gadgets will connect to the network automatically.

You can also add light sources to your conference room or other additional offices quickly as you control the whole network system without requiring extra management.

2. Can Easily Resist Problems

Another advantage of a mesh network is its self-healing capability. If one node stops functioning or loses the signal, it doesn’t affect the entire networking process. Other nodes can easily complete the mesh as the failed node heals itself.

The reason behind this healing is the capability of each node to send, receive, and translate information. The redundancy created in the process helps in keeping the nodes running even if one of them fails.

3. It’s Affordable

Generally, mesh networks use a few wires. This means that the installation cost is low. So, even if you want to set up a network that can cover a large area, you can easily afford it.

4. It’s Easy to Add A Range

You can easily add a range that you want your mesh network to cover. You simply do this by adding more nodes or connecting some of your nodes to gateways.

5. It’s Convenient

Mesh networks are suitable where there are no Ethernet wall connections. For instance, if you have a concert in an outdoor venue, this network is more appropriate. It’s also convenient in almost all transportation settings.

6. It’s Self Configuring

As said earlier, you can increase the number of nodes of a mesh network if you want to increase the range it’s covering. In this case, the added nodes don’t require any network administrator to adjust the network for them to work.

The network incorporates them automatically as they are self-configuring.

7. It’s Easy To Install

Normally, the nodes in mesh networks are easy to install and uninstall. This makes it easy to change the coverage area, depending on your requirements.

Disadvantages of a Mesh Network

1. Complicated Initial Network Set up

Setting up a mesh network from scratch can be very complicated and tedious. Establishing the perfect place to set up each node is also complex and time-consuming as you have to install them where there’ll be no latency problems. But once you’re done with the initial set up, it’s easy and quick to add more nodes.

2. Consumes More Power

Each node in a mesh network acts as both transmitter and receiver. For this reason, the nodes strain as they try to play both roles. So, for them to operate effectively, more power is needed.

This might be a small issue for large nodes as they are wired to the electrical system directly, unlike the small battery-powered ones.

3. Latency Problems

Latency is the time a message consumes to move from each node to the gateway. This time can affect the entire mesh networking setup. You can easily improve the latency issue by using a mesh network with additional memory, power, and bandwidth.

However, for low-power, wide-area networks, latency becomes a major problem for mesh networks.

4. Complicated Workload

Mesh networks are highly scalable and require adding more nodes depending on the needs. Complications arise when you have latency problems, and you’re required to add more nodes to help solve the problem. The entire network planning becomes more difficult as you have to deploy various equipment types for the network to function properly.

What Makes Bluetooth Mesh Different

The Bluetooth mesh makes home automation better than other wireless networks, especially WI-FI. Even though you can turn on your house power with your smartphone or laptop with WI-FI, Bluetooth mesh offers a better experience.

You can turn on your entertainment system, air conditioning, or alarm system by just opening your front door. This is enabled by Bluetooth mesh technology.

Also, Bluetooth mesh is less expensive and more efficient than other wireless technology like WI-FI. For instance, the technology has made tracking of devices simpler and has also enhanced wireless security.

Other traditional wireless networks are not convenient when communication is among many people. WI-FI makes the problem worse as high power is needed to make a WI-FI signal cover a wide area. In such cases, Bluetooth mesh technology is effective as devices connect to each other and pass information from one device to another, forming a communication web.

Conclusion

Bluetooth SIG mesh is a computer networking that allows communication to take place between many-to-many communiqué devices. It also allows thousands of nodes to communicate efficiently without any connection but within the same network. It is a reliable method of sharing information in large networks as compared to other wireless networks.

This test is from https://www.mokoblue.com/what-is-bluetooth-sig-mesh/,if you would like to learn more,pls feel free to contact us!

[echogears]

6, 10, 18, 25

6. which one of your muses have you been playing the longest?

quick man was my first mega man muse, and jewel was my second.

Bonus info: shadow man was my third (but obviously, i don’t write him anymore)

10. which muse is the most fun to write for?

quick man is the easiest for me to write (followed by terra) which is its own kind of fun, but i also really like writing as my villains, and fretta (who is objectively a villain depending on how you look at it)

18. would you ship any of your muses together? who?

i actually do ship some of my muses together!

-mars having a crush on uranus is 100% canon on my blog, i think they’re very cute together

-i also kinda like terra X venus because of the sheer amount of chemistry they already have as well as the potential for emotional support, but i don’t think much about this ship

-quick X oil is my fave crackship with chemistry. they’re both free spirits who wanna have a good time

-compan has a crush on fretta but they’re not a very good couple because fretta would sacrafice ANYTHING and EVERYTHING just to make him happy which leads to a very uneven power balance and while i don’t think that compan would abuse that, it would make things pretty tense. i guess... i ship them in theory but not in practice

-i crackship madame X task man (but again, power balance might be an issue)

-theres a planned 3-way relationship between pharaoh man, a friend’s muse, and another one of my muses but i’m not at liberty to say which one yet

- shade man X everyone

-time man X oil man tbh? and they do actually have a romantic history (cos my time man is actually kind of... inherited from a friend and we’d write timeoil together). theres definitely romantic tension between them tho but im not letting it happen :’)

25. which muse do people send the most asks for?

overall, i’d say ra moon gets the most asks but lately, pharaoh and blade have been getting a fuckton of asks too (and i know exactly why, chez)

[dfroza]

A Letter written to a friend

from Today’s reading of the Scriptures is the ancient short Letter of Philemon consisting of only a single chapter:

I, Paul, am a prisoner for the sake of Christ, here with my brother Timothy. I write this letter to you, Philemon, my good friend and companion in this work—also to our sister Apphia, to Archippus, a real trooper, and to the church that meets in your house. God’s best to you! Christ’s blessings on you!

Every time your name comes up in my prayers, I say, “Oh, thank you, God!” I keep hearing of the love and faith you have for the Master Jesus, which brims over to other believers. And I keep praying that this faith we hold in common keeps showing up in the good things we do, and that people recognize Christ in all of it. Friend, you have no idea how good your love makes me feel, doubly so when I see your hospitality to fellow believers.

[To Call the Slave Your Friend]

In line with all this I have a favor to ask of you. As Christ’s ambassador and now a prisoner for him, I wouldn’t hesitate to command this if I thought it necessary, but I’d rather make it a personal request.

While here in jail, I’ve fathered a child, so to speak. And here he is, hand-carrying this letter—Onesimus! He was useless to you before; now he’s useful to both of us. I’m sending him back to you, but it feels like I’m cutting off my right arm in doing so. I wanted in the worst way to keep him here as your stand-in to help out while I’m in jail for the Message. But I didn’t want to do anything behind your back, make you do a good deed that you hadn’t willingly agreed to.

Maybe it’s all for the best that you lost him for a while. You’re getting him back now for good—and no mere slave this time, but a true Christian brother! That’s what he was to me—he’ll be even more than that to you.

So if you still consider me a comrade-in-arms, welcome him back as you would me. If he damaged anything or owes you anything, chalk it up to my account. This is my personal signature—Paul—and I stand behind it. (I don’t need to remind you, do I, that you owe your very life to me?) Do me this big favor, friend. You’ll be doing it for Christ, but it will also do my heart good.

I know you well enough to know you will. You’ll probably go far beyond what I’ve written. And by the way, get a room ready for me. Because of your prayers, I fully expect to be your guest again.

Epaphras, my cellmate in the cause of Christ, says hello. Also my coworkers Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. All the best to you from the Master, Jesus Christ!

The Letter of Philemon (The Message)

and in Today’s paired chapter of Exodus 34 we read of the 2nd set of stone tablets that were made and were eventually placed in the Ark of the Covenant:

Eternal One (to Moses): I want you to cut two stone tablets exactly like the first ones I gave you. I will write the same words on these tablets that were on the tablets you shattered. Make sure you are ready when morning arrives. Climb up to the summit of Mount Sinai and present yourself to Me. No one is allowed to accompany you this time. No one is allowed to be anywhere on the mountain. This goes for your flocks and herds as well; take them to graze away from the mountain.

So Moses cut two stone tablets that were exactly like the first set. He woke up early the next morning and climbed up Mount Sinai carrying the two stone tablets, just as the Eternal One had instructed him to do.

The Eternal One descended in the cloud and stood with Moses as He proclaimed His name, the Eternal One. Then the Eternal One passed before him.

Eternal One: The Eternal God, full of compassion and mercy, slow to anger, and abundant in loyal love and truth, who maintains loyal love to thousands of people, who forgives wrongdoing, rebellion, and sin; yet does not allow sin to go unpunished, extending the consequences of a father’s sin to his children, his grandchildren, and even to the third and fourth generations.

Moses quickly bowed down on the ground and worshiped.

Moses: If I have gained Your trust and blessing, Lord, please go with us, despite the incredible stubbornness of this people. I also ask that You forgive our wrongdoing and our sins, and receive us as Your very own people, Your inheritance.

Eternal One: Look, I am about to make an extraordinary covenant with you. Before the eyes of all your people, I will do miraculous things that have never been done among any nation on earth. All of the nations living around you will witness the work that I do, for everything I do among you will inspire fear and awe. You must be careful to obey the instructions I give you today. I am about to force the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites out of the land you will inherit. Be careful. Do not make a covenant with the people who now live in the land where you are going. Any promises you make to these people could entrap you. Destroy their altars and pillars, and cut down their sacred poles because you must not worship any god except for Me. My name is Jealous, and I am a jealous God. Do not make a covenant with the people who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves with their so-called gods and sacrifice to them, they will coax you and you will feast upon their sacrifices. And when you take some of their daughters as wives for your sons—the daughters who prostitute themselves with other gods—they will seduce your sons into joining them in chasing after other gods.

You are not to cast metal images for yourselves of any gods.

You are to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread every year as I have instructed you. Eat bread made without yeast for seven days at the designated time in the month of Abib, the month that you departed from Egypt. All the firstborn belong to Me. Every male animal from your livestock, both cattle and sheep, that opens the womb is Mine. You may redeem the firstborn of a donkey with a lamb. If you choose not to redeem it, then you are to break its neck. Redeem all of your firstborn sons as well. No one may appear before Me empty-handed.

You are to work for six days; but when the seventh day arrives, you are to observe the Sabbath and rest. Even when it is the time to plow and harvest, you must still rest on the seventh day. Also, you are to celebrate the Feast of Weeks, when the firstfruits from the wheat harvest are gathered. And when one year ends and another begins, celebrate the Ingathering Feast. All your men are to appear before Me, the Lord and one True God of Israel, three times a year at these feasts. For I will force the people out of the land before you and expand your borders. No one will try to take your land while you are going up those three times a year to appear before Me, your God.

You are not to offer blood from a sacrifice with bread made with yeast. Do not leave any of the meat from the Passover sacrifice until morning. Offer only the best of your harvest when you bring a gift to the house of the Eternal One your God. Also you are not to boil a young goat in its mother’s milk.

(to Moses) Be sure to write down all that I have said to you. By these words of Mine, I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.

In all Moses was with the Eternal One for 40 days and 40 nights. He fasted the entire time—no food or water. He wrote down the Ten Directives, the essential words of the covenant, on the two stone tablets.

When Moses went back down Mount Sinai, he carried the two stone tablets in his hands as a witness to their agreement. But he did not realize that the skin on his face was glowing and radiant because he had been speaking with God.

When Aaron and the Israelites saw that Moses’ face was shining, they were afraid to get too close to him. But when Moses summoned them, Aaron and all the leaders of the community were reassured and approached him. Moses talked to them. After this, all the rest of the people of Israel approached Moses, and he instructed them to do everything that the Eternal had told him on Mount Sinai. When Moses finished sharing the words of God with them, he covered his face with a veil. From this time on whenever Moses went into the meeting tent to talk with the Eternal, he took off the veil until he left to share with the Israelites the Eternal’s instructions. As Moses was speaking, the Israelites could see that the skin on his face was all aglow. Then Moses would put the veil back over his face until the next time he went to speak with God.

The Book of Exodus, Chapter 34 (The Voice)

my personal reading of the Scriptures for monday, April 20 of 2020 with a paired chapter from each Testament along with Today’s Psalms and Proverbs

[garynsmith]

Irene raises $1.3 million to buy homes from seniors and let them retire there

https://ift.tt/2K4OfE2

Twenty-five years into their mortgages, many senior citizens are cash-poor but equity-rich. A new startup is trying to help homeowners unlock that equity to stay in their homes as they get older.

Irene, which launched in New Jersey three months ago, will buy homes from seniors with the caveat that the sellers retain the right to stay in their home for the rest of their lives. Irene takes over all responsibility for mortgage payments, property taxes and home maintenance costs, letting senior homeowners stay at home, reduce costs and avoid the more time-consuming aspects of homeownership as they age.

The company raised $1.3 million in a funding round led by IA Ventures at the end of last year. Irene had participated in the MetaProp startup accelerator for real estate tech startups in New York last year, and its funding round also included participation from MetaProp and Notation Capital.

“What was interesting to me was that over 80 percent of older adults own their homes,” Irene cofounder Fabrizio Tiso said. “While they sometimes don’t have cash on hand, they have a lot of savings in their home. It doesn’t matter if the home is $1 million or $200,000. How do we help seniors leverage their largest asset to plan for retirement in the place they want to retire, which is their home, in an affordable way?”

The strategy employed by Irene is one that’s common on a peer-to-peer level throughout Europe and especially in Italy and France, said Tiso, who is from Italy. Familiarity with the model inspired him to bring the idea in an institutionalized form to the United States. Taking the strategy from a peer-to-peer transaction — where an individual investor would buy the right to inherit the home of an older adult — to an institutional company will get homesellers better prices for their homes, Tiso said.

Credit: Screenshot / Irene

“It’s a big innovation for the U.S. market, but it’s definitely not a new, untested product. We see our solution saving tens of thousands of seniors every year across many different European markets,” Tiso said.

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Tiso comes from a background in the finance industry. He and cofounder Wilson Keenan developed Irene’s home-purchasing option in contrast to reverse mortgages and debt products that have been available to people facing similar choices in the past.

“Seniors deserve to live out their retirement in the homes they own. Irene guarantees that staying at home is affordable for any homeowner. Their simple, transparent offer process, superior data, and flexible contract structure are disrupting reverse mortgages,” IA Ventures partner Jesse Beyroutey said in a statement.

Generally, homeowners who sell to Irene receive cash up front to pay off their mortgage, Tiso said. While they could receive money from their sale to Irene as an annuity to support their living expenses — which is how the arrangement has generally worked in Europe — the main way Irene plans to cut living costs for seniors is by taking over those property tax and home maintenance costs after the sale.

If the sellers end up choosing to leave their home — whether to move into assisted living or for any other reason — they still retain the right to rent out the property and earn rental income for the rest of the lives, just as they were guaranteed the right to stay in the home themselves.

And if anything were to happen to Irene while homeowners who sold their homes to the company are still alive and living in their homes, there are protections in the contract to ensure those homeowners are able to stay there. Irene’s investors would stay involved and protections if those investors also failed would enable seniors to get the title to their home back, Tiso said.

Tiso declined to share how many transactions Irene has in progress or whether any have closed over the past three months the company has operated. The company chose to start in New Jersey in part because of the state’s high property taxes, which often force many seniors who would otherwise choose to stay in their homes to move elsewhere. Next up are Florida, for its senior-heavy housing markets, and California and Washington, though Tiso did not provide a specific timeline for expansion.

Irene has its own real estate agent working in-house, so the company won’t be hiring outside agents to facilitate its home transactions. But the company is hoping it can work closely with agents through referrals; if Irene meets a client who would be better off moving than staying in their home, they’ll refer the client to an agent, and if an agent encounters an older client who doesn’t really want to move but is considering it for financial reasons, they can introduce the client to Irene.

Along with this entire model’s frequent use in Europe, the right to stay is a common estate planning tool and feature of U.S. contracts, Tiso said. His idea is figuring out how to apply it to a new model here.

“We are literally leveraging something that exists that people are familiar with and attorneys are familiar with to use it in a very smart way,” Tiso said.

Email Emma Hinchliffe

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[vampireadamooc]

Lecture I: The Primitive Rite Itself

1.5 - World Wide Sweep of the Rite

Concerning traces of the rite of blood-covenanting in China, where there are to be found fewest resemblances to the primitive customs of the Asiatic Semites, Dr. Yung Wing, the eminent Chinese educationalist and diplomat, gives me the following illustration: "In the year 1674, when Kanhi was Emperor, of the present dynasty, we find that the Buddhist priests of Shanlin Monastery in Fuhkin Province had rebelled against the authorities on account of persecution. In their encounters with the troops, they fought against great odds, and were finally defeated and scattered in different provinces, where they organized centers of the Triad Society, which claims an antiquity dated as far back as the Freemasons of the West. Five of these priests fled to the province of Hakwong, and there, Chin Kinnan, a member of the Hanlin College, who was degraded from office by his enemies, joined them; and it is said that they drank blood, and took the oath of brotherhood, to stand by each other in life or death."

Along the southwestern border of the Chinese Empire, in Burmah, this rite of blood-friendship is still practiced; as may be seen from illustrations of it, which are given in the Appendix of this work. In his History of Madagascar, the Rev. William Ellis, tells of this rite as he observed it in that island, and as he learned of it from Borneo. He says

"Another popular engagement in use among the Malagasy is that of forming brotherhoods, which though not peculiar to them, is one of the most remarkable usages of the country. . . . Its object is to cement two individuals in the bonds of most sacred friendship. . . . More than two may thus associate, if they please; but the practice is usually limited to that number, and rarely embraces more than three or four individuals. It is called fatrida, i. c., 'dead blood' either because the oath is taken over the blood of a fowl killed for the occasion, or because a small portion of blood is drawn from each individual, when thus pledging friendship, and drunk by those to whom friendship is pledged, with execrations of vengeance on each other in case of violating the sacred oath.

To obtain the blood, a slight incision is made in the skin covering the center of the bosom, significantly called ambavafo, 'the mouth of the heart' Allusion is made to this, in the formula of this tragi-comical ceremony.

"When two or more persons have agreed on forming this bond of fraternity, a suitable place and hour are determined upon, and some gunpowder and a ball are brought, together with a small quantity of ginger, a spear, and two particular kinds of grass. A fowl also is procured; its head is nearly cut off; and it is left in this state to continue bleeding during the ceremony. 1

"The parties then pronounce a long form of imprecation, and [a] mutual vow, to this effect: 'Should either of us prove disloyal to the sovereign, or unfaithful to each other, 2 then perish the day, and perish

Apparently these articles form a "heap of witness," or are the aggregated symbolic witnesses of the transaction; as something answering to this usage is found in connection with the rite in various parts of the world.

He who would be true in friendship must be true in all things. The good friend is a good citizen. See I Peter 2: 17.

the night. 1  Awful is that, solemn is that, which we are now both about to perform! O the mouth of the heart! -  this is to be cut, and we shall drink each other's blood. O this ball! O this powder! O this ginger! O this fowl weltering in its blood! - it shall be killed, it shall be put to excruciating agonies, it shall be killed by us, it shall be speared at this corner of the hearth (Alakaforo or Adimizam, S. W.) And whoever would seek to kill or injure us, to injure our wives, or our children, to waste our money or our property; or if either of us should seek to do what would not be approved of by the king or by the people; should one of us deceive the other by making that which is unjust appear just; should one accuse the other falsely; should either of us with our wives and children be lost and reduced to slavery, (forbid that such should be our lot!) - then, that good may arise out of evil, we follow this custom of the people; and we do it for the purpose of assisting one another with our families, if lost in slavery, by whatever property either of us may possess; for our wives are as one to us, and each other's children as his own,3 and our riches as common property. O the mouth of the heart! O the ball! O the powder! O the ginger! O this miserable fowl weltering in its blood! 

See Job 3 : 2-9.

Here is the idea of an absolute inter-merging of natures, by this rite.

- thy liver do we eat, thy liver do we eat. And should either of us retract from the terms of this oath, let him instantly become a fool, let him instantly become blind, let this covenant prove a curse to him: let him not be a human being: let there be no heir to inherit after him, but let him be reduced, and float with the water never to see its source; let him never obtain; what is out of doors, may it never enter; and what is within may it never go out; the little obtained, may he be deprived of it; 1 and let him never obtain justice from the sovereign nor from the people! But if we keep and observe this covenant, let these things bear witness. 2 O mouth of the heart! (repeating as before), - may this cause us to live long and happy with our wives and our children; may we be approved by the sovereign, and beloved by the people ; may we get money, may we obtain property, cattle, &c.; may we marry wives, (vady kely); may we have good robes, and wear a good piece of cloth on our bodies; 3 since, amidst our toils and labor, these are the things we seek after.4 And this we do that we may with all fidelity assist each other to the last.'

See Matt. 13 : 12; 25: 29.

Here is an indication of the witness-bearing nature of these accessones of the rite.

Compare these blessings and cursings with those under the Mosaic laws: Deut. 27: 9-26; 28: I-6S.

See Matt 6: 31, 32.

"The incision is then made, as already mentioned; a small quantity of blood [is] extracted and drank by the covenanting parties respectively, [they] saying as. they take it, 'These are our last words, We will be like rice and water; 1 in town they do not separate, and in the fields they do not forsake one another; we will be as the right and left hand of the body; if one be injured, the other necessarily sympathizes and suffers with it." 2

Speaking of the terms and the influence of this covenant, in Madagascar, Mr. Ellis says, that while absolute community of all worldly possessions is not a literal fact on the part of these blood-friends, "the engagement involves a sort of moral obligation for one to assist the other in every extremity," "However devoid of meaning," he adds, "some part of the ceremony of forming [this] brotherhood may appear, and whatever indications of barbarity of feeling may appear in others, it is less exceptionable than many [of the rites] that prevail among the people. ... So far as those who have resided in the country have observed its effects, they appear almost invariably to have been safe to the community, and beneficial to the individuals by whom the compact was formed."

"This is a natural, simple, and beautiful allusion in common use among the Malagasy, to denote an inseparable association. The lice is planted in water, grows in water, is boiled in water, and water is the universal beverage taken with it when eaten,"

Ellis's Hist. of Madagascar, I., 187-190

Yet again, this covenant of blood-friendship is found in different parts of Borneo. In the days of Mr. Ellis, the Rev. W. Medhurst, a missionary of the London Missionary Society, in Java, described it, in reporting a visit made to the Dayaks of Borneo, by one of his assistants, together with a missionary of the Rhenish Missionary Society. 1

Telling of the kindly greeting given to these visitors at a place called Golong, he says that the natives wished "to establish a fraternal agreement with the missionaries, on condition that the latter should teach them the ways of God. The travelers replied, that if the Dayaks became the disciples of Christ, they would be constituted the brethren of Christ without any formal compact. The Dayaks, however, insisted that the travelers should enter into a compact [with them], according to the custom of the country, by means of blood. The missionaries were startled at this, thinking that the Dayaks meant to murder them, and committed themselves to their Heavenly Father, praying that, whether living or dying, they might lie at the Teet of their Saviour. It appears, however, that it is the custom of the Dayaks, when they enter into a covenant, to draw a little blood from the arms of the covenanting parties, and, having mixed it with water, each to drink, in this way, the blood of the other.

Cited in Ellis's Hist, of Mad., 1 , 191, note

"Mr. Earenstein [one of the missionaries] having consented [for both] to the ceremony, they all took off their coats, and two officers came forward with small knives, to take a little blood out of the arm of each of them [the two missionaries and two Dayak chiefs]. This being mixed together in four glasses of water, they drank, severally, each from the glass of the other; after which they joined hands and kissed. The people then came forward, and made obeisance to the missionaries, as the friends of the Dayak King, crying out with loud voices, 'Let us be friends and brethren forever; and may God help the Dayaks to obtain the knowledge of God from the missionaries! 'The two chiefs then said,' Brethren, be not afraid to dwell with us; for we will do you no harm ; and if others wish to hurt you, we will defend you with our life's blood, and die ourselves ere you be slain. God be witness, and this whole assembly be witness, that this is true.' Whereupon the whole company shouted, Balaak! or 'Good,' Be it so'."

Yet another method of observing this rite, is reported from among the Kayans of Borneo quite a different people from the Dayaks. Its description is from the narrative of Mr. Spenser St. John, as follows:

"Siamuding [a Kayan chief] sent on board to request me to become his brother, by going through the sacred custom of imbibing each other's blood. I say imbibing, because it is either mixed with water and drunk, or else is placed within a native cigar, and drawn in with the smoke. I agreed to do so, and the following day was fixed for the ceremony. It is called Berbuang by the Kayans; Bersabibah, by the Borneans [the Dayaks]. I landed with our party of Malays, and after a preliminary talk, to allow the population to assemble, the affair commenced. . . . Stripping my left arm, Kum Lia took a small piece of wood, shaped like a knife-blade, and, slightly piercing the skin, brought blood to the surfac ; this he carefully scraped off. Then one of my Malays drew blood in the same way from Singauding; and, a small cigarette being produced, the blood on the wooden blade was spread on the tobacco. A chief then arose, and, walking to an open place, looked forth upon the river, and invoked their god and all the spirits of good and evil to be witness of this tie of brotherhood. The cigarette [blood-stained] was then lighted, and each of us took several puffs [receiving each other's blood by inhalation], and the ceremony was over." 1 This is a new method of smoking the "pipe of peace" or, the cigarette of inter-union! Borneo, indeed, furnishes many illustrations of primitive customs, both social and religious.

St. John's Life in the Forests of the Far East, I., 116 f.

One of the latest and most venturesome explorers of North Borneo was the gallant and lamented Frank Hatton, a son of the widely known International journalist, Joseph Hatton. In a sketch of his son's lifework, the father says 1: "His was the first white foot in many of the hitherto unknown villages of Borneo; in him many of the wild tribes saw the first white man.

. . . Speaking the language of the natives, and possessing that special faculty of kindly firmness so necessary to the efficient control of uncivilized peoples, he journeyed through the strange land not only unmolested, but frequently carrying away tokens of native affection. Several powerful chiefs made him their 'blood-brother'; and here and there the tribes prayed to him as if he were a god." It would seem from the description of Mr. Hatton, that, in some instances, in Borneo, the blood-covenanting is by the substitute blood of a fowl held by the two parties to the covenant, while its head is cut off by a third person without any drinking of each other's blood by those who enter into the covenant. Yet, however this may be, the other method still prevails there.

ln "The Century Magazine" feu July, 1885, p 437.

Another recent traveler in the Malay Archipelago, who, also, is a trained and careful observer, tells of this rite, as he found it in Timor, and other islands of that region, among a people who represent the Malays, the Papuan, and the Polynesian races. His description is: "The ceremony of blood-brotherhood, . . . or the swearing of eternal friendship, is of an interesting nature, and is celebrated often by fearful orgies [excesses of the communion idea], especially when friendship is being made between families, or tribes, or kingdoms. The ceremony is the same in substance whether between two individuals, or [between] large companies. The contracting parties slash their arms, and collect the blood into a bamboo, into which kanipa (coarse gin) or lam (palm wine) is poured Having provided themselves with a small fig-tree (JialiK) they adjourn to some retired spot, taking with them the sword and spear from the Lull chamber [the sacred room] of their own houses if between private individuals, or from the Uma-Luli of their suku [the sacred building of their village] if between large companies.

Planting there the fig-tree, flanked by the sacred sword and spear, they hang on it a bamboo-receptacle, into which after pledging each other in a portion of the mixed blood and gin the remainder [of that mixture] is poured. Then each swears, 'If I be false, and be not a true friend, may my blood issue from my mouth, ears, nose, as it does from this bamboo!' the bottom of the receptacle being pricked at the same moment, to allow the blood and gin to escape. The [blood-stained] tree remains and grows as a witness of their contract."

Of the close and binding nature of this blood-compact, among the Timorese, the observer goes on to say: "It is one of their most sacred oaths, and [is] almost never, I am told, violated; at least between individuals." As to its limitless force and scope, he adds: "One brother [one of these brother-friends in the covenant of blood] coming to another brother's house, is in every respect regarded as free [to do as he pleases], and [is] as much at home as its owner. Nothing is withheld from him ; even his friend's wife is not denied him, and a child born of such a union would be recognized by the husband as his; [for are not as they reason these brother-friends of one blood of one and the same life?]"1

The covenant of blood-friendship has been noted also among the native races of both North and South America. A writer of three centuries ago, told of it as among the aborigines of Yucatan. "When the Indians of Pontonchan," he said, "receive new friends [covenant in a new friendship]. . . as a proof of [their] friendship, they [mutually, each], in the sight of the friend, draw some blood . . . from the tongue, hand, or arm, or from some other part [of the body]." 2

Forbes's A Naturalist's Wanderings in the Eastern p. 452.

Fetei Martyi's De Rebus Oceanicus et Novo Orbe, p. 338 , cited m Spencer's Des. Soc. II., 34.

And this ceremony is said to have formed "a compact for life." 1 In Brazil, the Indians were said to have a rite of brotherhood so close and sacred that, as in the case of the Bed'ween beyond the Jordan, 2 its covenanting parties were counted as of one blood ; so that marriage between those thus linked would be deemed incestuous. "There was a word in their language to express a friend who was loved like a brother; it is written Atourrassap ['erroneously, beyond a doubt,' adds Southey, 'because their speech is without the r']. They who called each other by this name, had all things in common ; the tie was held to be as sacred as that of consanguinity, and one could not marry the daughter or sister of the other." 3

A similar tie of adopted brotherhood, or of close and sacred friendship, is recognized among the North American Indians. Writing of the Dakotas, or the Sioux, Dr. Riggs, the veteran missionary and scholar, says: "Where one Dakota takes another as his koda, i. e., god, or friend, [Think of that, for sacredness of union - 'god, or friend'!] they become brothers in each other's families, and are, as such, of course unable to intermarry." 4

See Bancroft's Native Races ofthe Pacific Coast, I., 741.

See page 10, supra.

Southey's Brazel., 240.

Lynd's History of the Dakotas, p. 73, note.

And Burton, the famous traveler, who made this same tribe a study, says of the Dakotas: "They are fond of adoption, and of making brotherhoods like the Africans [Burton is familiar with the customs of African tribes]; and so strong is the tie that marriage with the sister of an adopted brother is within the prohibited degree." 1

Among the people of the Society Islands, and perhaps also among those of other South Sea Islands, the term tayo is applied to an attached personal friend, in a peculiar relation of intimacy. The formal ceremony of brotherhood, whereby one becomes the tayo of another, in these islands, I have not found described; but the closeness and sacredness of the relation, as it is held by many of the natives, would seem to indicate the inter-mingling of blood in the covenanting, now or in former times. The early missionaries to those islands, speaking of the prevalent unchastity there, make this exception: "If a person is a tayo of the husband, he must indulge in no liberties with the sisters or the daughters, because they are considered as his own sisters or daughters ; and incest is held in abhorrence by them ; nor will any temptations engage them to violate this bond of purity. The wife, however, is excepted, and considered as common property for the tayo. 2 Lieutenant Corner [a still earlier voyager] also added, that a tayoship formed

Burton's City of the Saints, p. 117.

See page 54, supra

between different sexes put the most solemn barrier against all personal liberties." 1 Here is evidenced that same view of the absolute oneness of nature through a oneness of blood, which shows itself among the Semites of Syria, 2 among the Malays of Timor, 3 and among the Indians of America. 4

And so this close and sacred covenant relation, this rite of blood-friendship, this inter-oneness of life by an inter-oneness of blood, shows itself in the primitive East, and in the wild and pre-historic West; in the frozen North, as in the torrid South. Its traces are everywhere. It is of old, and it is of to-day; as universal and as full of meaning as life itself.

It will be observed that we have already noted proofs of the independent existence of this rite of blood-brotherhood, or blood-friendship, among the three great primitive divisions of the race the Semitic, the Hamitic, and the Japhetic; and this in Asia, Africa, Europe, America, and the Islands of the Sea; again, among the five modern and more popular divisions of the human family: Caucasian, Mongolian, Ethiopian, Malay, and American. This fact in itself would seem to point to a common origin of its various manifestations, in the early Oriental home of the now scattered peoples of the world. Many references to this rite, in the pages of classic literature, seem to have the same indicative bearing, as to its nature and primitive source.

Mzss. Voyage to So Pacif Ocean, p 360 f.

See page 10, supra.

See page 54, supra.

See page 55 f., sufra.