#Top Tools for Web Designers

[iyiadebizz]

The Most Best Tools for Website Design: Everything You Need

Web design tools are key for any great website. Over 100,000 developers trust Local for WordPress development1. This shows how important they are. Whether you’re new or experienced, the best tools make tasks easier, like creating prototypes and working together. With WordPress being used by 43% of all websites online2, these tools help bring ideas to life. This guide will look at web design…

[svsaqua]

CHATBOTS ARE REVOLUTIONIZING CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT- IS YOUR BUSINESS READY?

CHATBOTS & AI: FUTURE OF CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT

Customers want 24/7 access, personalized experiences, and quick replies in today’s digital-first environment. It can be difficult to manually meet such requests, which is where AI and machine learning-powered chatbots come into play. 

WHAT ARE CHATBOTS?

A chatbot is a computer software created to mimic human speech. Natural language processing and artificial intelligence (AI) enable chatbots to comprehend customer enquiries, provide precise answers, and even gain knowledge from exchanges over time. 

WHY ARE CHATBOTS IMPORTANT FOR COMPANIES?

24/7 Customer Service 

Chatbots never take a break. They offer 24/7 assistance, promptly addressing questions and enhancing client happiness. 

Effective Cost-Scaling 

Businesses can lower operating expenses without sacrificing service quality by using chatbots to answer routine enquiries rather than adding more support staff. 

Smooth Customer Experience 

Chatbots may recommend goods and services, walk customers through your website, and even finish transactions when AI is included. 

Gathering and Customizing Data 

By gathering useful consumer information and behavior patterns, chatbots can provide tailored offers that increase user engagement and conversion rates. 

USE CASES IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES

E-commerce: Managing returns, selecting products, and automating order status enquiries. 

Healthcare: Scheduling consultations, checking symptoms, and reminding patients to take their medications. 

Education: Responding to questions about the course, setting up trial sessions, and getting input. 

HOW CHATBOTS BECOME SMARTER WITH AI

With each contact, chatbots that use AI and machine learning technologies get better. Over time, they become more slang-savvy, better grasp user intent, and provide more human-like responses. What was the outcome? A smarter assistant that keeps improving to provide greater customer service. 

ARE YOU READY FOR BUSINESS?

Using a chatbot has become a strategic benefit and is no longer optional. Whether you manage a service-based business, an online store, or a developing firm, implementing chatbots driven by AI will put you ahead of the competition. 

We at Shemon assist companies in incorporating AI-powered chatbots into their larger IT offerings. Smart chatbot technology is a must-have if you want to automate interaction, lower support expenses, and improve your brand experience. 

Contact us!

Email: info@shemonsoftware.com 

Phone: 7738092019

[techavtar]

Tech Avtar is renowned for delivering custom software solutions for the healthcare industry and beyond. Our diverse range of AI Products and Software caters to clients in the USA, Canada, France, the UK, Australia, and the UAE. For a quick consultation, visit our website or call us at +91-92341-29799.

[maduraimart]

Top 10 Website Design Tools

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital design, staying ahead of the curve is essential for creating stunning websites. As we step into 2024, the world of website design has seen a surge in innovative tools that streamline the creation process and elevate the overall user experience. Here, we present the top 10 website design tools that are revolutionizing the industry in 2024. Top 10…

[whambambatfam]

Webs of a Wing

Chapter 6

I'm sorry again this one took so long! I'm still not happy with how it turned out but if I hold and try to fix it any longer I'll never post again.

The names suggested for the spider were all so good. I chose Silk, adorable name. Another suggested name was Spider-mite, I think that would be a cute hero name for them.

Reader ages 17 - 18

───── ⋆⋅ 🕸 ⋅⋆ ─────

With the last year of highschool coming up Gewn’s been diligently looking for colleges. Her schools have already been picked and her applications ready, she's now helping the two of you. Since her school choices align with all your dreams of escaping Gotham, she's finding both something in New York.

“Try Education Connection. You could get connected," MJ sang from her seat slouched over your desk. “For free.. free with education connection."

“What about this one?” You turn the laptop towards Gwen, grumbling when the rubber foot catches on your blanket, “It looks like the program has good reviews. Journalism, photography and acting...”

As she leans in to see, setting aside the sample of your web. The floor in front of her is scattered with her little notes and tools. She's been interested in what it's made of and has even synthesized it. While it's not so tough that you need something like a batarang to cut, it still works the same. With it you work together to design a web shooter that straps to the wrist. Together the two of you make quite the neat little invention.

“Hey, so, does your spider have a name?" MJ calls out to you, her finger taps gently against the glass causing the creature inside to surry over, investigating the noise. “Like, what do you call them?"

“Huh?" Quirking a brow, you turn away from the info page. “Umm.. My baby..?”

She huffs, spinning about to face you properly, “Seriously? What about a name?!" Crossing her arms she contemplates the strange arachnid meandering about their enclosure, “How about Yuk-yuk? Lil’ Nasty?”

Gwen shakes her head, considering the creatures as well before giving her own, “What about Silk?”

You crawl across your bed and over your desk where your dear pet resides, “Do you like that one?” MJ rolls away as you open the top to pull out the excited spider, “Silk it is."

Besides school, you've been considering starting to make some of your own money. You don't want to stay used to relying on the Wayne's seemingly endless supply of wealth. The possibility of selling your creation crossed your mind but, even if it's not as strong as your webs, it's too much power to let fall into the wrong hands. You'd rather keep it to yourself or at least let Gwen have it, she did come up with the main component. Which she does gratefully, the two of you even try out swings across small gaps and webbing up practice we.

Luckily, there's another one of your hobbies that has a great chance of earning you cash. So, you went digging through your trove of Dynamic Duo pictures. The older ones, that you could bring yourself to part from, were quickly snatched up by obsessive fans and collectors. A few investigation sites took your more recent shots but nothing made you more than getting fresh action shots to news outlets. Besides the bank you were putting away, seeing your work starting to make front pages was nice.

Since it's been working out so well, you'd almost forgotten about the costume. You tested out the type of material that doesn't hamper your cling abilities together once but it had slipped your mind. That was until MJ pulled it from her closet one night with excited jazz hands. She hadn't said anything when she insisted you two spend the night.

MJ waves the suit around as she pushes over her hard work, “I even got Gwen help install this so you can switch on your.. Wall-see-through thingy." She wiggles her fingers over the large white eyes of the mask.

Gwen ushers you out into the hall, suit in hand. “Now go! Put it on! Hurry!" You're all but shoved into the bathroom to change.

Slipping the mask on and adjusting to your face, you look into the mirror for the first time. “This is...” Holy shit, you look like a real vigilante- one that can’t be ignored. The red and blue cut around your form is surprisingly flattering. It looks cool, feels cool, you feel cool. What more could you ask for in a superhero costume?

There's a knock on the door behind Mj call in to you, “It's too tight isn't it? Sorry, i really thought-”

Flinging the door open, carefully not to damage it, “Mj, it's amazing!” You wrap her in a tight hug, carefully not to hurt her, “Thank you so much for doing this for me.”

“So, you're really gonna swing around Gotham like that?” Gwen quips with a chuckle as you release the frazzled ginger from your grasp.

MJ winks, “Take lots of pictures, tiger.”

“Always do."

What started as a test run of your new suit that has quickly turned south when you spotted them. While snapping a few pics of the bat and bird you managed to land yourself right in the heart of a fear toxin explosion. The impending blast caught your danger sense in time but you couldn't get away from the gas fast enough. A scarecrow thug managed to grab you while you were disoriented, sinking their switchblade into your side.

Coughing and sputtering, you manage to push them away, just for them to come back swinging. The knife edge sliced straight through your suit and the skin underneath with each swipe. Stuffing your face into the crook of your elbow, you managed to grab their wrist. Tossing them over your shoulder and their back hits the brick wall behind you before they fall to the ground head first. Giving them one good parting kick you crawl up the wall before they could get up again.

Swinging to a nearby apartment complex, your foot slips on the ledge as you stumble onto your rooftop. Retching the camera from your neck with one hand, you press the other into your weeping side and totter over to where you stashed your bag. The downside of a spandex suit is having absolutely nowhere to put things like your phone. You have to get out of here, you need to get home, you need... “Alfred, please...”

The next time you open your eyes the grimy alleyways of Gotham are replaced with the pristine walls of your modest bedroom in Wayne manor. Sitting up you find yourself free of pain despite the agony of getting attacked. Every scrap and cut is gone, as if they were never there to begin with. Your hand slides under your shirt to find a bandage over the spot that pricks knife got you. Peeling it off you find the gash has healed completely, leaving only the faint sliver of a scar in its wake. Nice.

NO, not nice. How did you get here? Where is your camera? Phone? Suit- YOu rip the blanket from your body, finding yourself in a pair of your pajamas. Fuck! Where the hell is your spider suit?

Jumping out of bed you start scouring your room, your suit or bag or something! Trying to be mindful of your own strength, you sling your door open. If you got home and changed then it must be in the house somewhere. You just have to find it before-

“Looking for something?” Alfred stands on the other side of the door, his arms folded neatly behind his back.

You nearly jump out of your skin at the sight. Your arms flying into the air involuntarily as wips of webs shoot out to dangle from your wrists. “Alfred! Uh..” Coughing away the squeak in your surprised voice doesn't help the lump in your throat. “No, no of course not. Why would- what would I even be looking for anyway?” Shaking off the web you cross your arms tight over your chest.

The old butler cocks his head, “Are you sure, young master?” Pinched between the two fingers on each of his hands is your suit, bloodied and tattered. “So, this isn't yours?”

“How did-?” It feels like the air has been knocked out of your lungs.

“You sure took quite the beating if you can't remember who picked you up last night, patched your wounds, and put you to bed.” His mention conjures the vague memory of being dragged into a car and dumped onto a table with a bright light above. “Though, everything seemed to be mostly healed by the time I got you to the cave. All under your father's nose I'll have you know.”

Shame licks its hot flames up the back of your neck. “Ah, shit-”

“Language.” He corrects.

“Sorry! But, um..” Eyeing the tattered garb, you ask sheepishly, "What are you.. gonna do with it?”

“I will respect your..” One of the old man’s snowy brows raises, deepening the creases of his forehead. He searches for the right words and settles on, “creative decisions in design..” then folds it up as nicely as he can, stony gaze returning to you, “I will not have you running around unprotected.”

Shrinking under his gaze, you couldn't possibly just let MJ's hard work all go to waste, “Please, let me at least hold onto that one. It's.. special.”

The old man's concession was obvious the moment he saw your pleading face. “Well, I suppose so.. After I mend it, that is, young master.”

You can't help throwing your arms around him and he accepts you gladly, “Al.. I don't want him to know...” Sniffling into his suit, he pats your head.

Alfred lets out a heavy sigh and nods, “I understand...”

Nothing could shake the bond the two of you shared. Like the doting grandfather coming around to clean up after his reckless grandchild. He patched your wound, mends your suit, and It takes twice as long as the first but you made due with the patched up one MJ made in the meantime. Not that you're out fighting crime for real.. yet.. and that's not because you're scared after that whole incident.

Of course, when it does arrive, the suit is a work of beauty all over again. The design was faithful to MJ as promised with your eye covers still having the X-ray tech Gwen put in. This time the material is more durable, insulated even, and a few extra features too! You haven't figured them all out yet but you'll get there.

Test run, take two! This time you're not gonna get caught up in some crazy fight. Batman's plethora of super powered villains were tucked away for the moment. That left you free to follow him through the city using one of your new gadgets- a batman tracker. Oh Al, he knows you too well.

Traversing the Gotham rooftops, something peculiar catches your eyes just as you catch up to your target. Golden hair flutters behind her as a young girl leans over the gaps between buildings. Wow, a new Robin already? And a girl, nice! Although it does leave a heavy feeling in your heart. Is Tim okay? He's alive right? Damn kid, why do you have to be so worried about him? God, you wish the little prick wasn't so skittish, you might actually know what's going on. Maybe Alfred knows, he better, you're asking as soon as you get home. If your bastard of a father left another child for dead-

"Woah! Who are you?!”

The sudden sound of the new girl's chipper voice coming from right beside you sends you scrambling up the wall in surprise. "Please, I'm good, promise!"

Mouth hung open, she had to crane her neck to look up at you, “Promise?"

“Uh, yeah.." Shimmying down the wall you extend your hand to her, little finger raised. “P-pinky promise?”

She’s eyeing you behind that mask and you can feel it. Oh yeah, your suspicion as hell and she has every right to tuck tail and run. “Well.. I've definitely never met a bad guy like you.” Luckily for you, she doesn’t seem to think you're a threat and even cracks a smile.

Before you can say more, probably for the better, she’s called away, "Robin. Stay focused." Batman gruff command causes you both to straighten, exchanging waves before parting ways.

“Her name is Stephanie Brown.” Alfred was surprisingly forward with you when you came in flabbergasted and waved a picture of the new Robin.

You couldn't suppress the tight feeling in your chest. “What about Tim?” The old man seemed to know what you were thinking before the words left your mouth.

He pats your back reassuringly, “Don't worry, he's simply been grounded.”

That answer triggered a bout of giggles that had nearly choked you, “G-grounded?” Fuck man and here you were all worried about that little shit.

The hand that had reassured you smacks your trembling shoulder, “It is no laughing matter, young master.”

Shaking your head, you successfully stifle your laughter, “No, no. Of course not..”

OH, you have got to get this on camera a hundred times over. A robin with strong screen presence, style, grace, and, to the bats chagrin, an unstoppable sense of humor. Honestly, you couldn't get enough.

The charm she brings to her role reminds you of watching Jason on his first days and you think the two of you might have even gotten close. It's a shame she's never been introduced to you... technically.

In the quiet moment of a now hectic life, when you're the only one in the manor. When you can feel the despondency of those interminable halls seeping into your bones. When the emptiness of this large house is just too much to bare.

You miss it most.

Having someone to bother at times when your friends were too far or your grandfather too busy. Having somebody who filled the gaps of your most lonesome hours. Who made that hollow house only truly feels like home when you were together. Even when you were left in the dark, like the sun is sure to rise every more, the light never stayed away. The melancholy couldn't get through with the fortissimo of your twain joy when reunited.

You miss your brother.

So, deciding you've been away too long, you decide to make the trip over. Pulling on your suit, and throwing something on over top, you all but fly down the grand staircase. Your heart practically stops when you nearly run head first into Alfred, who you swear wasn't anywhere to be found just a moment ago.. sneaky old bastard.

He seems pensive at first but finally gives, pulling out an envelope. Despite the fact it's sealed, you're sure he knows its contents already.

It's a letter from someone claiming to be your ‘Uncle Ben��� who says he's been looking for you and your mother. He wants to know about how your life has been and if you'd come to New York for a visit. It was vague but strangely well timed, so super suspicious. Yet, something you couldn't quite place gropes your heart the thought. That you had other family, could have those familial bonds you craved but were continuously denied. Maybe, just maybe, you would even be able to find her or at least know something about her. The letter crumples in your grip and Alfred takes your hands in his, gentling your touch.

“Alfred.. Please, don't tell him about this.” A sense of deja vu comes with those words and this time you don't think he'll be so easily convinced.

“Young master, please, understand. The last time a child under my care left to-” You're hands, clasped in his, are given a gentle squeeze, “To search for their mother...” He clears his throat, you've never seen him cry but you can hear the pain in his voice. It hurts to know you've caused it.

“Hey- wait- this is different! So different!” You blurt out your hastily in your own defence, "I know you're worried, but I'll be in New York with my friends anyway! Gwen is touring a college there and even MJ has a few schools she wants us to look at.”

Alfred isn't surprised easily but your words actually seem to take the old man off guard for once, “Is that where you plan to further your education as well?” Shit, right, you haven't told him yet.

“Yes, I am..” You admit with a guilty edge, “We'll all be together. I'm not going out on my own..” Swallowing past the lump form in your throat, you add, "and if my.. family- other family? Is there? I need to know.”

His shoulders slump as he concedes to you, “I beg you, dear. Be safe.”

“Of course, Alfred.” Hugging him tight, easing um when you hear him wheeze, “I'm strong enough now to keep everyone plenty safe.” He shakes his head, returning your affection with a morose sigh.

───── ⋆⋅ 🕸 ⋅⋆ ─────

Tag list?!

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[screaminglygay]

KINKTOBER (day 3)

pairing: natasha romanoff x fem!reader - dirty talk

summary: natasha made a mess while carving pumpkins and you did too

warning: flirting, teasing, dirty talk, a bit of a porn plot

word count: 2k

an: ugh i have such a writing block these last days, especially with smut:(( hope you´ll like this one!

You and Natasha are in the kitchen, surrounded by pumpkins, carving tools, and a few snacks. The atmosphere is light and cozy, with soft music playing in the background. Natasha has a determined look, taking her pumpkin carving seriously, while you are more focused on having fun.

You start carving your pumpkins together, chatting about your designs. “Nat, I’m going for the classic scary face. What about you?”

“I’m thinking something more intricate. Maybe a spider web?” she replies, her focus sharp as ever.

You admire how her hands glide over the pumpkin. She smiles softly when you compliment her skills, making your heart skip a beat. You’re not the best at carving, but Natasha is patient, even showing you the best way to cut the top off. “Like this?” you ask, after her demonstration.

“Perfect,” she grins, her eyes flicking up to meet yours.

The lightness between you two is full of laughter, smiles, and the smell of fresh pumpkin. Things start to get a bit more playful when you’re scooping out the insides of the pumpkin. Natasha hands you a spoon and says, “You need to dig deeper to get everything out,” she advises, showing you how to scoop.

You pause, the double meaning not lost on you, and glance over at her with a mischievous smirk. “Deeper, huh? Got it.” You make sure to draw out the word, giving her a pointed look.

Natasha raises an eyebrow but doesn’t say anything, though you notice the hint of a smile tugging at her lips. You keep teasing. “What if I can't get it all? Maybe I need some help… I’m sure you’ve got more experience with this.”

She laughs, shaking her head as if she’s used to your antics. But she plays along, leaning in just slightly. “I could help… but then you’d miss out on all the fun of doing it yourself,” she flirts back, her voice dropping just a little, playful but smooth.

As you carve, the suggestive comments keep flowing, Natasha remarks, “Don’t be afraid to make it bigger, sometimes you just have to really push through.”

“Oh, trust me, I’m not afraid of making it bigger.” You notice how she watches you, her smile widening at your boldness. There's a shared moment of tension, but it’s still lighthearted, the air thickening as you both push the boundaries a little more.

Natasha finally wipes her hands on a towel, standing closer to you as she looks down at your half-carved pumpkin. “You’re getting good at this. I might have to start coming to you for help,” she says, the flirtation clear now.

You smirk, looking up at her. “Oh, I’m always happy to lend a hand… or two, if you need it.”

You’re feeling pretty smug, pushing Natasha’s buttons with your cheeky comments, enjoying the way her eyes darken just a bit more with each tease. But as the playful chat escalates, you realize you may have underestimated your girlfriend.

After your last remark about lending her a hand, Natasha steps closer. The space between you feels smaller now, her presence more intense. She leans over, pretending to inspect your pumpkin, her arm brushing against yours, the contact sparking something that has your breath catching.

“You know,” she murmurs, her voice low and smooth, “for someone who talks such a big game, you’re looking a little… flustered.”

Your confidence wavers for the first time, the bold, flirty front you’ve been putting up starting to crack under her closeness. You can feel her body heat, her arm pressing just a little firmer against yours, and suddenly, you’re hyper-aware of everything about her—her scent, her breath, her fingers barely grazing your wrist as she reaches for the spoon again.

“Flustered? Pfft, no way,” you try to laugh it off, but it comes out shakier than you intended. She notices, of course.

“Oh?” Natasha's voice is laced with amusement now. She picks up the spoon again, leaning even closer as she digs into the pumpkin, her arm brushing your shoulder. “You were so bold a second ago… what happened? Did I say something to make you nervous?”

Her words are soft, but the intent behind them is clear. Your heart races. You can’t tell if it’s because of the closeness or the way her fingers seem to linger on your arm just a bit too long. You feel your face heat up, and the teasing confidence you had a moment ago evaporates.

“N-no, I’m fine,” you stammer, but Natasha’s smirk tells you she doesn’t believe a word of it.

“Mmm, I don’t know… you seem a little quiet all of a sudden. Where’s all that sass gone?” Her voice is teasing, but there’s an edge to it that has you swallowing hard.

You fumble with your spoon, trying to focus on your pumpkin, but Natasha’s hand suddenly covers yours, guiding it. Her touch is firm but gentle, and you realize how shaky your own hand has become. She leans in, her lips dangerously close to your ear.

“Deeper,” she whispers again, this time her voice lower, more intimate. The word sends a shiver down your spine, and you nearly drop the spoon.

Her breath brushes against your neck, and you can feel the heat rising to your cheeks. You can’t think of anything to say, all the bratty confidence you’d had melting under the intensity of her attention. “What’s wrong?” she asks, her tone teasing but soft, like she’s genuinely enjoying watching you unravel. “You’re not backing down already, are you?”

You try to regain control, but Natasha’s hand lingers on yours, and she shifts just a little closer, her body now pressing lightly against yours as she leans forward to inspect the pumpkin. Her proximity is overwhelming, and you can feel the heat from her body seeping into yours, making it harder to concentrate.

“I-I’m not backing down,” you manage to say, but your voice is quieter, less sure. You hate how easily she’s turning the tables on you, but the way her fingers lightly trace patterns on your skin makes it hard to think straight.

Natasha chuckles, and you can feel the vibration of her laughter against your shoulder. She straightens up but doesn’t move away. Instead, she tilts your chin up with her finger, forcing you to meet her gaze.

“Are you sure about that?” she asks, her eyes locked on yours. The intensity of her gaze makes your pulse quicken, and for a second, you forget how to breathe.

You nod, but it’s clear you’re no longer in control of the situation. Natasha’s lips curl into a smirk, and she leans in, her lips brushing your ear as she whispers, “Good. Because I like it when you squirm.”

Her words send a jolt of electricity through you. You’re not sure if it’s her touch, her voice, or the way she’s looking at you like she knows exactly what she’s doing to you.

And she knows it really well.

You’re still trying to gather yourself when Natasha takes the spoon from your hand, her fingers brushing against yours in a way that makes your heart skip. She looks at the pumpkin, then back at you with a glint in her eyes, the playful energy between you two thickening.

“You’re struggling with this, huh?” she teases, holding the spoon as if she’s still considering whether it’ll do the job.

“I’ve got it,” you protest weakly, but your voice isn’t convincing—especially not with the way your pulse is racing.

Natasha tilts her head, watching you for a moment before slowly shaking her head. “I don’t think this spoon is going to cut it,” she says, her voice low. She tosses the spoon aside, the soft clink barely registering in your mind. “Sometimes, you just have to get in there with your hands, really dig deep to get what you want.”

Your breath hitches as she grabs your hand, pulling it toward the pumpkin. Her fingers wrap around yours, warm and strong, and you feel her body shift even closer until her chest is lightly pressed against your back. The contact is intoxicating, her presence swallowing you up. She leans down, her lips hovering just over your ear.

“Don’t be shy,” she whispers, her voice sultry. “You were so eager to get in deep, weren’t you?”

The teasing tone sends a shiver through you, and you nod without thinking, too distracted by the way her breath feels hot against your skin. Natasha's fingers tighten around yours as she guides your hand into the pumpkin, her body pressing closer.

“Like this,” she murmurs, her lips brushing your ear. Her hand covers yours as you both reach into the hollowed pumpkin. The sensation of the cool, squishy insides mixes with the heat of her touch, making it hard to focus on anything but the feel of her against you.

She chuckles softly when she feels your hand tremble under hers. “Getting messy already?” she teases, her voice like velvet. “I told you, you’ve got to get all the way in… can’t just half-ass it.”

You swallow hard, trying to keep up with her banter, but it’s impossible to think clearly when she’s this close. Natasha slowly pulls your hand deeper into the pumpkin, her breath now warm on your neck.

“You need to scoop it all out,” she whispers, her lips grazing your skin as she speaks. “Get every last bit. Can’t leave anything behind, right?” There’s a clear double meaning in her words, and it’s not lost on you. The tension is unbearable, but somehow thrilling.

You try to respond, but your voice fails you, caught in your throat as her fingers slide over yours, helping you scoop out more of the pumpkin’s insides. Your breathing is shaky, and Natasha's grip tightens as she senses your hesitation.

“What’s wrong? Not so confident now, are you?” Her voice is teasing but hushed, like a secret only the two of you share. “You know, I love seeing you like this… so quiet, so obedient. It’s a nice change from all that sass earlier.”

You try to say something - anything, but all that comes out is a shaky breath. Natasha’s chuckle is low, the sound vibrating against your back.

“That’s what I thought,” she whispers, her lips just grazing your ear again. “All that talk, and now look at you… completely at my mercy.”

You feel her hand shift slightly, her fingers curling tighter around yours as you both pull a handful of pumpkin guts from the inside. The squelching sound fills the silence, but all you can focus on is how close she is, how her lips are almost brushing against your skin.

Natasha pulls your hand out of the pumpkin, still holding it in hers, the sticky pumpkin innards clinging to your fingers. She leans in even closer, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. “See? Isn’t it better when you just let me take control?”

Your heart pounds, and you can’t help but nod. She smirks, obviously pleased with your reaction, and gently squeezes your hand, letting the pumpkin flesh fall to the table.

“You’re such a mess,” she murmurs, her voice a tantalizing mix of teasing and affection. “But I like it. You’re cute when you squirm.”

You bite your lip, trying to hold back the rush of nervous energy that’s overtaken you. Natasha turns your hand over in hers, inspecting the sticky mess on your fingers with a thoughtful look.

“Guess we’ll have to clean this up, huh?” she muses, her eyes flicking up to meet yours. The smirk that spreads across her lips is wicked, and you know she’s not just talking about the pumpkin. She´s talking about the mess between your legs too.

Her thumb brushes over your knuckles, her touch sending another wave of heat through you. She leans in, her breath once again warm on your neck as she whispers, “Next time, maybe we can skip the pumpkins… and just get messy with each other.”

Your breath catches in your throat, and before you can even think of a response, she presses a soft kiss just below your ear, the contact so light, but enough to make your knees go weak.

In the end, it wasn’t just the pumpkins Natasha worked her hands through.

Thank you for reading!

[spikeeager]

Tutorial: How-To Create Striking Gradient Shapes & Waves for Adobe Illustrator for iPad

In this tutorial, we will explore step-by-step instructions and tips to create striking gradient waves and shapes that can enhance any project, from digital illustration to web design and marketing materials.

Starting off you'll want to open Adobe Illustrator on your iPad, and select 'custom size'.

Create a canvas that measures at 3000 x 3000 points.

Set the colour mode as 'RGB'.

Select the 'Pencil' tool, and then select 'Paint Brush'.

Select 'Calligraphic' brushes, and scroll down until you find the 15 pt. 'Round' brush and select it.

Select the 'Fill' option and set the colour value to none.

Select the 'Stroke' option and set the colour value to a colour of your choosing.

Select the 'Smoothness' option and set it to the maximum value (10).

Draw a wavy line.

Select the 'Stroke' tool and choose a new colour.

Draw another wavy line over the top of the previous.

Select the 'Stroke' tool and choose another new colour.

Draw another wavy line over the top of the previous two.

Select the 'Selection' tool.

Select all of the shapes.

Select the 'Repeat' tool.

Within the 'Repeat' tool, select the 'Blend' option.

Tip: If you have a keyboard connected to your iPad, you can use the keyboard shortcut 'Command+Alt+B' when objects are selected to blend them.

Now our gradient wave shape has been created!

Once the shapes have been blended, you can manipulate the spacing of each shape with the three dots in the middle, each one represents each of the lines.

Move each point around until you feel comfortable with their spacing.

We may want to make some alterations to our shape such as changing the rotation, shape, size, order of lines. Here’s how we can do that.

Select the 'Selection' tool.

Drag and select the shape.

Select the 'Object' tool.

Select the 'Release' option.

Now the objects are unblended they can be altered or manipulated to our liking.

To put our gradient wave back in place, first select the 'Repeat' tool.

Then select the 'Blend' option.

Congratulations on completing the tutorial on creating striking gradient waves and shapes in Adobe Illustrator for iPad! You've taken significant steps in enhancing your design skills, learning how to apply gradients effectively, and bringing your digital artwork to life with vibrant colours and dynamic forms.

Keep Practicing - As with any creative skill, practice is key to mastery. Continue experimenting with different gradient combinations, wave patterns, and shapes. Find new ways to enhance your designs.

The more you practice, the more confident and proficient you will become.

If you're interested in supporting me, or checking out some free eBooks, Wallpapers, and more. Please consider checking out my Ko-Fi page: https://ko-fi.com/spikeeager

[spectralpixelsredone]

In-Depth Analysis of the Nomu Species, Prototypes, and Gigantomachia

Introduction

The Nomu, also known as Artificial Humans, are a pivotal antagonistic force in the My Hero Academia franchise. Created by Dr. Kyudai Garaki and All For One, these bio-engineered beings are deceased humans modified to possess multiple Quirks, rendering them powerful, mindless super-soldiers for the League of Villains and later the Paranormal Liberation Front. This analysis explores the Nomu species, their various tiers, prototypes, and the unique case of Gigantomachia, a kaiju-like villain with distinct characteristics.

Nomu Species Overview

Nomu are created from human corpses, subjected to extensive genetic modification to enhance physical capabilities and implant multiple Quirks. The process erases higher brain functions, leaving most Nomu as obedient, mindless entities that require direct orders to act. Their grotesque appearance, often featuring exposed brains and unnatural skin colors (e.g., blue, yellow, black), reflects their transformation into something barely human. The Nomu serve various roles, from expendable foot soldiers to strategic game-changers in battles, with their power scaling based on their tier and Quirks.

Creation Process

Source Material: Nomu are derived from deceased humans, with some cases (e.g., Kurogiri) indicating that corpses are as viable as living subjects.

Quirk Implantation: All For One provides multiple Quirks, which are surgically integrated by Dr. Garaki. Without All For One, Garaki can still extract and duplicate Quirks, though the process is less efficient and may yield weaker results.

Modification: The transformation involves drastic physical alterations, resulting in exposed brains, jumbled internal structures, and enhanced physical attributes. The process is shrouded in mystery, with the gruesome details left ambiguous, enhancing their horror.

Purpose: Nomu are designed as tools for the League’s goals, ranging from mass destruction to targeted missions. High-End Nomu retain some personality and intelligence, tailored for specific violent tasks.

Tiers of Nomu

Nomu are categorized into five tiers based on their strength, Quirk count, and intelligence:

Lower-Tier Nomu:

Characteristics: Light-colored skin, minimal Quirks (1-2), and enhanced physical strength. They require voice commands to act and are the weakest tier, yet capable of overpowering minor Pro Heroes.

Role: Expendable foot soldiers used for overwhelming numbers or distraction.

Example Quirks: Absorption and Release, Tongue Web, Muscle Augmentation.

Notable Instances: The white-skinned Hosu Nomu with four eyes, used during the Vs. Hero Killer Arc to wreak havoc in Hosu City.

Middle-Tier Nomu:

Characteristics: More vibrant skin colors, increased power, and additional Quirks compared to Lower-Tier. They still lack significant intelligence.

Role: Stronger support units, capable of more complex tasks but still reliant on orders.

Example Quirks: Unnamed Flying Quirk, Tool Arms.

Notable Instances: The winged Hosu Nomu with a mask-like face, involved in capturing Izuku before being killed by Stain.

Upper-Tier Nomu:

Characteristics: Black skin, Super Regeneration Quirk, and strength equivalent to ten average humans. They can contend with top Pro Heroes.

Role: Heavy hitters in critical battles, often deployed to counter strong opponents.

Example Quirks: Super Regeneration, Shock Absorption.

Notable Instances: The USJ Nomu, designed to counter All Might, and the black-skinned Hosu Nomu, killed by Endeavor’s fire.

Near High-End Nomu:

Characteristics: Incomplete High-End Nomu with phenomenal strength and speed comparable to High-Ends but lacking intelligence. They were rushed into deployment, limiting their enhancements.

Role: Mass-produced for All For One’s final conquests, overwhelming through numbers and raw power.

Example Quirks: Wing, Burst, Bone Spikes, Super Spit.

Notable Instances: Deployed during the Final War Arc to support Shigaraki, with some escaping to raid Tartarus.

High-End Nomu:

Characteristics: The pinnacle of Nomu creation, with black skin, multiple Quirks (including Super Regeneration), and retained intelligence/personality. They require stabilization time post-activation to reach full potential.

Role: Strategic assets capable of independent thought and devastating combat prowess, used to shift battle tides.

Example Quirks: Super Regeneration, Liquification, Rupture, Spatial Distortion, Muscle Augmentation.

Notable Instances: Hood, Woman, Eleph, Robot, Chubs, and Ribby, deployed during the Jaku Hospital raid and Pro Hero Arc.

Powers and Abilities

Nomu exhibit a range of abilities, primarily derived from their implanted Quirks and enhanced physicality:

Common Quirks:

Super Regeneration: Allows rapid healing, even from near-total destruction, though it fails if the brain is incinerated (e.g., by Endeavor’s Hellfire).

Muscle Augmentation: Enhances physical strength, seen in Nomu like Hood and the Four-Eyed Hosu Nomu.

Shock Absorption: Absorbs impact up to a limit, as seen in the USJ Nomu.

Warping: Enables teleportation, used by utility Nomu like Johnny and Kurogiri.

Physical Enhancements: Immense strength, durability, speed, reflexes, stamina, and endurance make Nomu formidable. High-End Nomu like Hood combine these with tactical intelligence.

Weaknesses:

Brain Vulnerability: Destroying the brain is the only reliable way to kill a Nomu, as their regeneration cannot recover from this.

Command Dependency: Lower and Middle-Tier Nomu require orders, rendering them catatonic without guidance.

Stabilization Time: High-End Nomu are weaker if deployed prematurely, as seen during the Jaku Hospital raid.

Fire-Based Attacks: Endeavor’s Hellfire can overcome regeneration by reducing Nomu to ashes.

Prototypes and Key Individuals

Kurogiri

Background: Created from the corpse of Oboro Shirakumo, a former U.A. student and friend of Aizawa and Yamada. His Cloud Quirk was combined with others to form the Warp Gate Quirk.

Role: A unique Nomu designed as a loyal caretaker for Tomura Shigaraki, capable of speech and limited free thought. Unlike other Nomu, he retains personality traits (e.g., caring nature) from his human life.

Quirk: Warp Gate allows him to create portals from his foggy body, crucial for League logistics. It’s more versatile than All For One’s Glop Warp but requires his physical presence and knowledge of locations.

Key Moments:

Acts as Shigaraki’s guardian, managing his needs and preventing capture.

Defies All For One’s orders during the Final War Arc to protect Shigaraki, teleporting heroes to aid Deku and sacrificing himself to intercept an attack.

His brief re-emergence as Oboro during interrogation provides critical information about Garaki’s hospital.

Significance: Kurogiri is a prototype for intelligent Nomu, showcasing Garaki’s early success in retaining personality while programming loyalty. His eventual rebellion highlights the limits of Nomu programming when loyalty conflicts with core directives.

USJ Nomu

Background: The first Nomu introduced, designed to counter All Might as the “Anti-Symbol of Peace.” Originally a petty thug, he was modified with four extra Quirks.

Quirks: Shock Absorption, Super Regeneration, and immense physical strength.

Role: A brute force weapon, deployed during the USJ Arc to attack Class 1-A and All Might.

Key Moments:

Nearly kills Aizawa and overpowers students, showcasing its threat level.

Defeated by All Might overloading its Shock Absorption with rapid punches, leading to its arrest.

Significance: A prototype for raw power, the USJ Nomu’s limitations (e.g., inability to act without orders) informed later Nomu designs, reducing excessive modifications to preserve functionality.

Hood

Background: One of the earliest High-End Nomu, formerly a cage fighter, retaining bloodthirsty tendencies and intelligence.

Quirks: Super Regeneration, Muscle Augmentation, Shapeshifting Arm, Shoulder Jet, Storage.

Role: A test subject for Dabi during the Pro Hero Arc, deployed to fight Endeavor and Hawks in Fukuoka.

Key Moments:

Overpowers Endeavor, causing significant destruction and scarring the hero.

Uses Storage Quirk to deploy nine weaker Nomu, showcasing tactical versatility.

Killed by Endeavor’s Hellfire after Hawks’ assistance, highlighting the brain destruction weakness.

Significance: Hood represents a successful High-End prototype, balancing intelligence with overwhelming power. His rushed deployment revealed stabilization issues, a flaw addressed in later High-Ends.

Johnny and Mocha

Background: Small, utility-focused Nomu with minimal combat ability, designed for support roles.

Quirks:

Johnny: Warping, identical to All For One’s teleportation Quirk.

Mocha: Double, sampled from Twice, used to create duplicates.

Role: Facilitate League operations, with Johnny transporting members and Mocha aiding Garaki’s subterfuge.

Key Moments:

Johnny is crushed by Mirko during the Jaku Hospital raid.

Mocha sacrifices itself to protect Garaki, demonstrating unexpected initiative for a Lower-Tier Nomu.

Significance: These Nomu highlight Garaki’s versatility in creating specialized, non-combat variants, serving as early experiments in Quirk utility.

Gigantomachia

Overview

Gigantomachia is a unique entity within the League, distinct from typical Nomu due to his size, intelligence, and loyalty-driven Quirks. A kaiju-like villain, he served as All For One’s bodyguard before being assigned to Shigaraki.

Characteristics

Appearance: A gargantuan humanoid with rocky skin, spikes, and a lantern jaw, resembling a mythical giant or kaiju.

Quirks:

Endurance: Converts morale into physical power, amplifying strength when loyal to his master.

Gigantification: Allows size increase during battle.

Pain Blocker: Nullifies pain, enhancing durability.

Fierce Gains, Dog, Mole, Energy Saver: Enhance strength, tracking, burrowing, and stamina, respectively.

Intelligence: Limited (1/6 per Ultra Analysis Book), akin to a “dim-witted beast,” but capable of speech and basic reasoning. He recognizes betrayal, as seen in his rage against All For One’s abandonment.

Loyalty: Initially exhibits blind obedience to All For One, later transferring to Shigaraki after proving worthiness. His loyalty wanes after being abandoned, leading to rebellion.

Role and Key Moments

Bodyguard: Protected All For One until reassigned as a secret weapon for Shigaraki.

Meta Liberation Army Arc: Turns a losing battle into a massacre, decimating the enemy but endangering the League due to his indiscriminate destruction.

Paranormal Liberation War Arc: Bulldozes through 20 cities to reach Shigaraki, showcasing his unstoppable nature. Sedatives only work when he lacks active orders, highlighting his command dependency.

Final War Arc: Controlled by Shinso’s Quirk to fight for the heroes, leveraging his obedience to voice commands. His rage against All For One’s betrayal persists post-brainwashing, leading to his attack on his former master. Killed by All For One’s lightning attack, splitting him in half.

Impact: His destructive rampages (e.g., terrifying Mina, overwhelming Class 1-A) cement him as “pure dread” incarnate, a physical reminder of the war’s toll.

Significance

Prototype Influence: Gigantomachia’s genome informs Nomu subservience, making him a foundational prototype for their obedience programming. His multiple Quirks and physical enhancements prefigure High-End Nomu designs.

Weaknesses:

Blind Obedience: His need for commands makes him vulnerable to Shinso’s Quirk and containment when orders are absent.

Intelligence: His limited intellect allows manipulation (e.g., by Ashido) and prevents independent strategy.

Betrayal: His loyalty, while immense, has limits, as seen in his turn against All For One.

Comparison to Nomu: Unlike mindless Nomu, Gigantomachia retains some autonomy and emotional capacity (e.g., crying over Shigaraki’s weakness). His kaiju-like scale and unique Quirks set him apart, but his command-driven nature aligns with Lower-Tier Nomu.

Analysis

Evolution of Nomu Design

Early Prototypes: Kurogiri and the USJ Nomu represent initial experiments. Kurogiri prioritizes utility and intelligence, while the USJ Nomu focuses on raw power, revealing flaws like over-modification and command dependency.

Refinement: Hood and later High-Ends address these issues by balancing intelligence with power, though stabilization time remains a hurdle. Near High-Ends sacrifice intelligence for mass production, reflecting strategic shifts in All For One’s plans.

Garaki’s Role: His ability to duplicate Quirks and tweak them (e.g., enhancing Overhaul into Decay) showcases his genius, though limitations without All For One’s direct involvement highlight their partnership’s synergy.

Strategic Importance

Battlefield Impact: Nomu, especially High-End and Gigantomachia, are game-changers. Kurogiri’s Warp Gate shifts battle dynamics, while Gigantomachia’s rampages and High-Ends’ tactical prowess overwhelm heroes.

Psychological Warfare: Their grotesque appearance and relentless nature instill fear, as seen with Mina’s trauma and Class 1-A’s realization of their vulnerability post-USJ.

Countermeasures: Heroes exploit Nomu weaknesses (e.g., brain destruction, command reliance) and develop strategies like Shinso’s brainwashing to turn assets like Gigantomachia against villains.

Ethical and Narrative Implications

Moral Horror: The Nomu’s creation from human corpses, including recognizable individuals like Oboro, underscores All For One’s and Garaki’s amorality. The use of Tsubasa (potentially Garaki’s grandson) adds a personal layer of cruelty.

Redemption Potential: Kurogiri’s partial re-emergence as Oboro and Spinner’s restoration suggest that Nomu programming can be reversed, offering hope for victims but highlighting the tragedy of their transformation.

Narrative Role: Nomu escalate the series’ stakes, transitioning from school-based conflicts to existential threats. Gigantomachia’s dread and the Nomu’s relentless power embody the villains’ growing menace, pushing heroes to their limits.

Conclusion

The Nomu species, from their grotesque origins to their tiered evolution, represent a pinnacle of villainous ingenuity in My Hero Academia. Prototypes like Kurogiri and the USJ Nomu laid the groundwork for increasingly sophisticated High-End variants, while Gigantomachia stands as a unique, loyalty-driven force of nature. Their creation reflects the moral depravity of All For One and Garaki, while their battlefield impact and weaknesses shape the series’ conflicts. The interplay of mindless obedience, retained personality, and raw power makes the Nomu and Gigantomachia compelling antagonists, embodying both the horror and strategic complexity of the villainous agenda.

[iyiadebizz]

Discover the Top-Rated Web Design Software Solutions

Crafting a stunning website that is both functional and visually appealing starts with choosing the right web design software. Creating a website that stands out in today’s digital landscape requires the right set of tools. Explore the Most Powerful Web Design Software Solutions Learn More Web design tools are essential for building websites. The category is wide and includes feedback…

[senku-ishigami-official]

Senku, I want to ask you a question on the matter of using AI. I want to know your thoughts about it!

A while back, I attended a conference with a bunch of esteemed people, including a few diplomats from all over the world. Someone had asked a doctor and a professor in the top university of my country, "How do you feel about the growing presence of artificial intelligence in almost every aspects of work and life? Does it threaten you?" (Not his exact words, but that's the gist!)

At first, he laughed, and then he simply said: "Do you think mathematicians got mad when the calculator got invented?"

I have my own stance about it, and I think a tool whose primary function is to make complex computations much easier to do is VERY different from the level of AI currently existing.

As someone who's proficient in math, science, technology, and many other things, how do you feel about the professor's statement? 🤔

— 🐰

Okay. I have lots of thoughts about this

So we all know that AI is on the rise. This growth is thanks to the introduction of a type of AI called generative AI. This is the AI that makes all those generated images you hear about, it runs chat gpt, it's what they used for the infamous cola commercial.

Now there's another type of AI that we've been using for a much longer time called analytical AI. This is what your favorite web browser uses to sort your search results according to the query. This has like nothing to do with character ai or whatever, all that stuff is generative AI.

The professor compared AI to a calculator, but in my mind, calculators are much more like analytical AI, not the generative AI that's gotten so popular which the question was CLEARLY referencing. This is because analytical AI uses a structured algorithm, which is usually like a system of given numbers or codes that gives an exact result. There are some calculators that can actually be considered analytical AI. Point is, you're right, this is completely different from generative AI that uses an unstructured algorithm to make something "unique" (in quotes because it's one of a kind, but drawn from a combination of existing texts and images). The professor did NOT get the question I fear.

This bothers me because analytical AI can be incredibly useful, but generative AI really just takes away from us. Art, writing and design are for humans, not for robots -- science should foster creativity, not make it dull. It's important to know the difference between them so we know what to support and what to reject.

[paradoxcase]

How to use search engines effectively in the year of our lord 2025

So, we all know Google sucks now. There are some other alternative search engines, but honestly, switching search engines isn't going to fix a lot of the fundamental issues we're seeing with search engines nowadays. But yesterday, while responding to someone on reddit who was making the argument of "Google sucks now, so really, how much worse is it to just ask ChatGPT" I realized that there is actually a formula for using search engines that I have that continues to work perfectly for most things despite the fact that Google sucks now, so I thought I would share.

First of all, to remove all of the AI bullshit from Google, you can use udm14.com instead, or install the udm=14 browser extension. The method I outline here may or may not work with search engines other than Google, I haven't looked into them deeply enough. udm14.com should be essentially just Google, but without AI.

Then, we have to go back to the beginning and understand what a search engine actually is, and what it isn't. I spent three years of my career working in the guts of a search engine (not Google, or any other web-based search engine), so I should hope I would know what they are:

A search engine is a tool to locate documents.

Google in particular has done a lot to obscure what a search engine actually is by adding a lot of "cool" "features" to their search engine which are not actually within the scope of search engine capabilities. When you search for a question and Google displays a bolded answer that it found on a web page? Not search engine provenance. When it displays its "AI Summary"? Not search engine provenance. When it advertises things to you? Not search engine provenance. When it comes up with questions that "other people asked"? Not search engine provenance. The core competency of a search engine is to find documents (in this case, web pages) from a large collection of documents (the internet) based on their relevance to a query you have typed. Just like people are misusing ChatGPT to do stuff it was not designed for and that it is not good at, using a search engine as if it is a question answering service that can deliver the answer to a question you asked is using the search engine to do something it was not designed for and is not good at.

The search engine is not an all-in-one tool any more than ChatGPT is an all-in-one tool. Research is a multi-step process that involves a search engine, but the search engine cannot do everything for you. Here is the process:

Learn how to identify reliable sources of information. Learn what sites tend to have reliable information about the topic you're looking up. Wikipedia is a good fallback that may give you links to other reliable sources. You can also ask people who know more about your topic for recommendations of good sites. There are also sites that rank the reliability and bias of other popular sites. The search engine's ability to find relevant documents is not super useful when the internet is full of untrustworthy bullshit and is becoming more so as time goes on due to AI-generated content. Just because a search engine returns a link does not mean it is reliable.

Use a search engine to specifically search just the websites you know are reliable for your topic. Google has some documentation about how to do this on their search engine here. There should be a way to do this on any other half-decent search engine, as well, but I don't have the details of how to do it. Now you have limited your scope from "anything and everything produced by everyone who has ever created a Wordpress account plus whoever paid Google to have their site appear in every single search" to a collection of documents that you can trust.

Read the sources that you get back from the search engine. No, seriously. Read them. Don't read Google's "AI Summary". Read the actual sources. Don't read the bolded answer Google put at the top of the results list. Read the sources. Don't ask another AI to summarize the sources for you. Read the sources. Don't just read the headline or title and assume you now know everything that is in the body of the article. READ THE SOURCES. There is no shortcut for this, you have to read.

There was a time when you could get away with being lax about this and just do general searches, but that was because there was an actual limit on the amount of wrong information that mere humans could generate per unit time, and also because Google did legitimately use to be more concerned with promoting reliable sources than with promoting whoever paid them the most money to do so. But that time is over.

Basically, if you wouldn't just type your question into ChatGPT and hope for the best, don't just type your question into Google and hope for the best, either.

[skysometric]

Skysometric Design Retrospective, Part 1

Where It All Started

somehow, after a decade on the internet, i've become one of those people who has a whole Personal Brand™. at first i leaned into it on purpose, partly because i wanted to make videos as my shtick (until i didn't), and partly because i didn't really know how else to express myself on the internet early on. these days, however, keeping up a personal brand is less about Who I Am and more that i just enjoy graphic design. making this stuff is fun!

so over the past few years since coming out and rebranding as Skysometric, i've put a lot of work into a new logo, website design, icons, video thumbnails, and even more besides. i'm pretty proud of how it all turned out! and now that most of the heavy lifting is done, i'd like to write about how it went and some things i've learned along the way. there's a lot to talk about, so strap in for a pretty long series!

but, to start, i can't talk about Skysometric without a quick history lesson about WillWare, the old me – the one who got the ball rolling on graphic design in the first place.

———

maybe this is obvious to the trained eye (or maybe not!), but i'm an entirely self-taught graphic designer. i've never taken any classes, studied design styles, learned the fundamentals, or even so much as had a single course teaching me how Photoshop works. (not that i use Adobe anymore, but you get my point!)

instead, everything i know, i learned by doing. i learned how image editing software works by making tiles and backgrounds for Mari0 levels. my fundamentals are deeply rooted in drawing mazes as a kid, so i quickly discovered how to set up grids in every image editor i got my hands on. i picked up other design techniques by attempting to imitate their logos or styles for personal projects over the years.

on the one hand, this means that i've developed a style and workflow that is wholly and uniquely my own! on the other hand, anytime i get stuck, i don't always have the tools to get un-stuck... or even the words to google it.

so instead of googling it, i used the tools i had to make all of this:

rest in peace, WillWare (the brand). clockwise from top left: logo, social media banner, video end slate, stream archive thumbnail.

what started as just a fancy logo to replace my old Sonic profile picture, snowballed into an entire branding suite across web and video! i learned a lot about graphic design as i gradually expanded these designs into my other creative pursuits. you can see so much of that self-taught style i described above in these few examples – geometric grids and graph paper, simple shapes and layers like my Mari0 work... and imitation of Google's Material Design guidelines, like drop shadows and color choices.

in fact, i leaned so hard on Material Design that, after some time, it no longer felt like my own style. anytime i wanted to branch out, i felt constrained by somebody else's design standards! so i challenged myself to find my own design style from scratch, which I called "New WillWare":

this neon light grid is still pretty dang inspired, but it's not "me" anymore.

it took a couple years of slow iteration to arrive at this neon-looking "light grid," and while it rocks, it also painted me into a corner. i had no idea how to make anything more than pretty promotional pictures in this style – i couldn't figure out how to make it work with video, webpages, or even just text, no matter how much i tried to go back to the drawing board. and my lack of formal experience made it that much more difficult to solve these problems!

so after a while, i felt pretty stuck. my old design didn't feel like my own, my new design was a dead end, and i felt like i was too invested in both to start completely from scratch again. i was simultaneously too burnt out to continue, and too scared to throw everything out and start fresh!

and then i transitioned, and started calling myself Sky.

in case you missed the *cough* subtle indicators, both of my old designs are centered around the letter W (being part of my old username and all). "Sky" does not have a W. so, uh, none of this fits anymore! even though i love this old work, and still consider it part of my history, it no longer accurately represents me or my identity. ready or not, it's time to design something new!

on one side, i felt pressure to get away from my old look, the product of a younger designer whose efforts were still the standard for my online presence. on the other side, i felt pressure to rise from the ashes of my redesign, make something of all the failures, successes, and lessons that i learned.

and thus, shedding my old brand identity and donning my new gender identity, i hit the sketchbook running.

(continued in part 2...)

[okkanai]

> ALL ABOUT ' THE FINAL ORDER ' . . .

adrian’s organization isn’t just another crime family — it’s a meticulously designed empire, built from the shadows with strategy & control at its core. rather than relying on brute force, adrian’s syndicate operates through influence, manipulation, & an intricate web of alliances. it’s less of a traditional mafia & more of a machine — one that moves unseen but dictates the pulse of the underworld.

the final order is feared not for its brutality, but for its precision. enemies don’t just disappear ; they are systematically erased — financially ruined, socially dismantled, or left with no choice but to serve. those who try to betray the syndicate often find that their downfall was planned months in advance. the syndicate’s core principle is simple : " control is power. " violence is a last resort, & chaos is the enemy. everything must be orchestrated.

RECRUITMENT METHODS . . .

the final order does not accept volunteers. potential recruits are scouted, observed, & tested long before they are even approached. before being allowed into the syndicate, recruits are put through customized trials based on their background, skills, & psychological profile. these trials are not just about combat — they test intelligence, adaptability, loyalty, & the ability to operate in absolute secrecy. failure is not tolerated. a final act of loyalty is required — something irreversible that binds them permanently to the syndicate. this could be a sacrifice, an execution, or an action that ensures they can never return to their old life.

all new recruits go through a period where their identity is stripped from them. no names, no pasts, no connections. during this phase, they are given assignments that require them to act without question, proving they can exist as nothing but a tool of the organization before earning their place. once accepted, members are not given titles or flashy ranks. they are ghosts, moving through the world with power but without recognition. only a handful ever get to meet who runs the final order, & even fewer live long enough to betray it.

HIERARCHY & ROLES WITHIN . . .

unlike traditional crime families with clear ranks, the final order functions as a decentralized yet structured entity. members are assigned roles based on skill, trust, & adaptability rather than status. there are no titles that can be traced back to adrian ; instead, roles operate like cogs in a machine, ensuring efficiency without visibility.

orders come from the top & move downward. no one knows the full structure of the final order except adrian. each member only knows their immediate superior & their own tasks, ensuring that even if someone is compromised, they cannot reveal more than a fragment of the whole. betrayal is nearly impossible. every step is calculated, every move anticipated. to turn against the final order is to fight against something that has already planned your demise.

- inner circle : the unseen strategists who shape the future of the underworld.

the last shadow — adrian moreau himself, the final authority. he is known by many, but very few have actually seen him in person. he orchestrates the game from the shadows, ensuring every move serves the grand design.

the curators — a small, hand - selected group of advisors who act as adrian’s voice in the field. each advisor specializes in a domain, whether that be finance, technology, politics, or war. their word is law.

the black sigil — the enforcer of adrian’s will. when the final order needs to make a statement, the black sigil delivers it ; publicly or privately, depending on the message. often feared more than death itself.

- operational heads : the hands that carry out adrian’s will.

silencers — assassins trained in precision eliminations. their work leaves no trace, no loose ends, no ripples in the system.

infiltrators — specialists in deception, infiltration, & psychological warfare. they assume identities, manipulate targets, & dismantle organizations from the inside.

spectors — the head of intelligence. oversees surveillance, cyber operations, & information warfare. every secret passes through them before it reaches adrian.

- field operatives : the eyes, ears, & hands of the final order.

wraiths — sleeper agents embedded in corporations, governments, law enforcement, & rival syndicates. they do not act until activated.

echoes — information brokers who gather intel from the streets, the web, & the world. they don’t ask questions, only deliver results.

phantoms — masters of disguise & deception. they assume multiple identities, making them nearly impossible to track.

- support & logistics : the foundation that ensures the machine never stops running.

the ledger — the financial masterminds running money laundering, shell companies, & economic warfare.

the artificer — specialists in high - tech weaponry, surveillance tools, & cybernetics. if it can be hacked, built, or turned into a weapon, they control it.

the undertaker — responsible for cleanup & disposal. no bodies, no evidence, no problems.

- initiates & disposable assets : those who serve in the shadows, earning their place or dying in the process.

lurkers — initiates stripped of identity, given missions without explanation. if they survive long enough, they may earn a role.

expendables — criminals, mercenaries, or outsiders used for one - time operations. they do not know who they work for. if they become a problem, they disappear.

OPERATIONS . . .

unlike traditional organizations with a central headquarters, the final order operates as a web of interconnected yet independent cells. each cell functions with autonomy but adheres to the overarching strategy dictated from the shadows. members know only their direct contacts & tasks — never the full picture. if one part is compromised, the rest remains unaffected. adrian moreau is the sole architect of the organization, with only his curators aware of broader objectives. even they receive information on a need - to - know basis.

the final order does not claim territory in the traditional sense ; it controls people, institutions, & systems. it weaves itself into existing structures — corporations, governments, law enforcement, & rival syndicates — making itself indispensable before silently taking control from within. its presence is felt but never seen. there are no flashy displays of power, only inevitable outcomes orchestrated long before anyone realizes they were being manipulated.

instead of waging wars with rival syndicates, the final order infiltrates them, identifying key players to eliminate, convert, or control. it provides services to high - profile clients — politicians, CEOs, military officials — offering protection, secrets, & solutions in exchange for long - term influence. rather than wiping out competitors, the final order absorbs them over time, leaving only remnants of their existence under its control.

the final order is not just another crime syndicate — it is an evolution of organized crime. a system designed to be untouchable, inevitable, & eternal. it does not fight for power ; it simply takes it without ever being seen.

BUSINESS & INFLUENCE . . .

high - end contract work — the syndicate provides strategic assassinations, corporate espionage, and discrete ' problem - solving ' for those who can afford it.

financial manipulation — a network of shell companies, offshore accounts, & stock market plays ensure money constantly flows into the syndicate.

arms & tech trade — unlike tradiotional arms dealers, the final order traffics in experimental weaponry, high - tech surveillance, & cyber warfare tools.

favors & leverage — rather than focusing on drugs or human trafficking, adrian’s syndicate deals in power — gathering blackmail, securing secrets, & making people indebted to them.

RIVALS & ALLIES . . .

the final order exists in a delicate balance between power & opposition. some fear it, others depend on it, & many wish to destroy it. adrian moreau does not seek to be known or recognized, only to control the game from the shadows. every ally is a potential betrayer, & every rival an opportunity to be dismantled from within. in the end, control is power, & adrian ensures that no one else wields it better than him.

- rivals : those who seek to challenge or destroy the syndicate.

old crime families — the mafias, cartels, yakuza, & triads that once ruled the criminal world find themselves sidelined & undermined by the final order’s new way of operating. where they rely on brutality, tradition, & visible hierarchy, adrian’s syndicate operates invisibly, removing power structures without being seen. many resent adrian’s influence but are hesitant to strike openly — those who have tried disappeared before they could act. ( notable enemy : silvio vasari . . . the head of the vasari mafia, firmly believes adrian is an anomaly that must be removed before he corrupts the underworld beyond recognition. he hates how the final order erodes the traditional power of crime families — & believes adrian’s methods make crime ' soulless. ' he has attempted multiple alliances to take down the final order, but none have succeeded. )

corporate elites — billionaires who fear the syndicate. while some profit from adrian’s manipulations of the financial world, others recognize that his unseen influence is a threat to their dominance. the final order controls money laundering, shell corporations, & black - market investments — allowing adrian to crash economies, bankrupt rivals, & dictate global finance. some elites seek to ally with Adrian, while others fund intelligence operations, mercenary forces, or political campaigns to dismantle his empire. ( notable enemy : elias thorne. . . . a billionaire strategist who wants total control over global finance & sees adrian as the only true competitor. unlike crime lords who underestimate adrian, thorne respects him but believes he must be contained or destroyed. he has hired mercenary forces, intelligence agencies, & even attempted assassinations — none have succeeded. )

government agencies — while many officials are on adrian’s payroll, others work relentlessly to expose & dismantle the final order. the difficulty ? no one can prove the organization exists. governments fear the syndicate because it can topple regimes, manipulate elections, & neutralize threats before they even form. some agencies want to use adrian’s influence for their own gain, while others view his empire as a ticking time bomb that must be stopped. ( notable enemy : director nathan caldwell . . . a relentless intelligence officer obsessed with bringing down the final order. unlike others, he doesn’t care about proving adrian’s existence — he only cares about destroying his empire. caldwell has orchestrated multiple operations against the syndicate, but every attempt has failed before it even began. )

- allies : those who benefit the syndicate.

corrupt officials — while some in government oppose adrian, others recognize the value of his control. adrian ensures that those who serve his interests rise to power, while those who oppose him fade into irrelevance — or disappear entirely. some officials are bought, some are blackmailed, & others simply understand that aligning with the final order ensures survival. ( notable ally : senator malcolm graves . . . a high - ranking politician with aspirations for global influence. he has protected the final order in exchange for assassinations, financial backing, & influence over elections. he knows adrian is the most powerful man in the shadows — but does not fully trust him. )

other crime organizations — while many crime syndicates oppose the final order, others see the benefit in working alongside adrian. some seek protection, others offer services that complement adrian’s operations. they know that betraying the final order is a death sentence, so they tread carefully. ( notable ally : victor st. clair . . . a man who values secrecy & autonomy above all else, victor respects adrian’s vision, but remains wary of being too entangled in the final order’s machinations. they share a symbiotic relationship — adrian provides strategic protection & high - level resources, while the hollow circle grants him access to classified information, digital sabotage, & political leverage. unlike traditional crime syndicates, the hollow circle operates in the shadows of the digital world, making them the perfect counterpart to adrian’s methodical empire. )

the veiled court — a hidden network of intelligence operatives, ex - spies, & political puppeteers who secretly guide global events. while they do not control adrian, they acknowledge that his influence is too powerful to be ignored. an uneasy alliance exists — the final order occasionally serves their interests, but neither fully trusts the other. ( notable ally / rival : lady geneviève duvall . . . a former MI6 spymaster, now one of the most powerful political manipulators in the world. she works with adrian when their goals align but is constantly assessing whether he is more valuable as an ally or a corpse. )

[cyberstudious]

Tools of the Trade for Learning Cybersecurity

I created this post for the Studyblr Masterpost Jam, check out the tag for more cool masterposts from folks in the studyblr community!

Cybersecurity professionals use a lot of different tools to get the job done. There are plenty of fancy and expensive tools that enterprise security teams use, but luckily there are also lots of brilliant people writing free and open-source software. In this post, I'm going to list some popular free tools that you can download right now to practice and learn with.

In my opinion, one of the most important tools you can learn how to use is a virtual machine. If you're not already familiar with Linux, this is a great way to learn. VMs are helpful for separating all your security tools from your everyday OS, isolating potentially malicious files, and just generally experimenting. You'll need to use something like VirtualBox or VMWare Workstation (Workstation Pro is now free for personal use, but they make you jump through hoops to download it).

Below is a list of some popular cybersecurity-focused Linux distributions that come with lots of tools pre-installed:

Kali is a popular distro that comes loaded with tools for penetration testing

REMnux is a distro built for malware analysis

honorable mention for FLARE-VM, which is not a VM on its own, but a set of scripts for setting up a malware analysis workstation & installing tools on a Windows VM.

SANS maintains several different distros that are used in their courses. You'll need to create an account to download them, but they're all free:

Slingshot is built for penetration testing

SIFT Workstation is a distro that comes with lots of tools for digital forensics

These distros can be kind of overwhelming if you don't know how to use most of the pre-installed software yet, so just starting with a regular Linux distribution and installing tools as you want to learn them is another good choice for learning.

Free Software

Wireshark: sniff packets and explore network protocols

Ghidra and the free version of IDA Pro are the top picks for reverse engineering

for digital forensics, check out Eric Zimmerman's tools - there are many different ones for exploring & analyzing different forensic artifacts

pwntools is a super useful Python library for solving binary exploitation CTF challenges

CyberChef is a tool that makes it easy to manipulate data - encryption & decryption, encoding & decoding, formatting, conversions… CyberChef gives you a lot to work with (and there's a web version - no installation required!).

Burp Suite is a handy tool for web security testing that has a free community edition

Metasploit is a popular penetration testing framework, check out Metasploitable if you want a target to practice with

SANS also has a list of free tools that's worth checking out.

Programming Languages

Knowing how to write code isn't a hard requirement for learning cybersecurity, but it's incredibly useful. Any programming language will do, especially since learning one will make it easy to pick up others, but these are some common ones that security folks use:

Python is quick to write, easy to learn, and since it's so popular, there are lots of helpful libraries out there.

PowerShell is useful for automating things in the Windows world. It's built on .NET, so you can practically dip into writing C# if you need a bit more power.

Go is a relatively new language, but it's popular and there are some security tools written in it.

Rust is another new-ish language that's designed for memory safety and it has a wonderful community. There's a bit of a steep learning curve, but learning Rust makes you understand how memory bugs work and I think that's neat.

If you want to get into reverse engineering or malware analysis, you'll want to have a good grasp of C and C++.

Other Tools for Cybersecurity

There are lots of things you'll need that aren't specific to cybersecurity, like:

a good system for taking notes, whether that's pen & paper or software-based. I recommend using something that lets you work in plain text or close to it.

general command line familiarity + basic knowledge of CLI text editors (nano is great, but what if you have to work with a system that only has vi?)

familiarity with git and docker will be helpful

There are countless scripts and programs out there, but the most important thing is understanding what your tools do and how they work. There is no magic "hack this system" or "solve this forensics case" button. Tools are great for speeding up the process, but you have to know what the process is. Definitely take some time to learn how to use them, but don't base your entire understanding of security on code that someone else wrote. That's how you end up as a "script kiddie", and your skills and knowledge will be limited.

Feel free to send me an ask if you have questions about any specific tool or something you found that I haven't listed. I have approximate knowledge of many things, and if I don't have an answer I can at least help point you in the right direction.