#AWS Cloud Fundamentals

[kodestreetechnologies]

Accelerate Your DevOps Career with AWS Bootcamp Training

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, the demand for efficient and agile IT practices has never been higher. As organizations continue to adopt cloud-native applications and microservices architectures, DevOps fundamentals have become a cornerstone of successful IT operations. Among the myriad of cloud platforms, AWS (Amazon Web Services) stands out as a leader in providing robust cloud infrastructure that fuels innovation and scalability.

This comprehensive guide explores how AWS Bootcamp Training can accelerate your DevOps career. We delve into key concepts like Continuous Integration (CI), Continuous Deployment (CD) with AWS, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and many other essential components. Whether you’re an aspiring DevOps professional or a seasoned engineer looking to upgrade your skills, this bootcamp offers the practical experience and cutting-edge knowledge needed to thrive in a cloud-centric world.

Why DevOps is Critical for Modern IT

Transforming IT Operations

DevOps is more than just a set of practices—it’s a cultural transformation that bridges the gap between development and operations teams. By adopting DevOps best practices, companies can streamline software development, reduce deployment times, and respond to market demands swiftly. DevOps empowers teams to:

Automate repetitive tasks to minimize human error.

Enhance collaboration across different departments.

Implement robust version control with Git to manage code efficiently.

Increase scalability with AWS by leveraging cloud-native solutions.

The ability to seamlessly integrate development, testing, and deployment processes is what gives businesses a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced environment.

The Power of AWS in DevOps

Leading Cloud Infrastructure

AWS offers an extensive range of cloud services that have revolutionized the way applications are built, deployed, and managed. Its comprehensive suite of tools includes computing power, storage, databases, analytics, and machine learning services—all of which are crucial for modern DevOps practices.

Key AWS DevOps Tools

Understanding the AWS ecosystem is essential for any DevOps professional. Here are some of the critical AWS tools that are often covered in a bootcamp setting:

AWS CloudFormation: Allows you to model and set up your AWS resources using templates, automating the provisioning of infrastructure as code.

AWS CodePipeline: Facilitates continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) by automating the build, test, and deploy phases.

AWS CodeDeploy: Automates code deployments to any instance, including AWS EC2 and on-premises servers.

AWS Lambda for DevOps: Enables you to run code in response to triggers without provisioning or managing servers.

AWS Elastic Beanstalk: Simplifies the deployment and management of applications by handling the underlying infrastructure.

AWS EC2 for DevOps: Offers scalable computing capacity, which is critical for running applications, containers, and microservices.

Each of these tools plays a vital role in automating processes and ensuring that the DevOps lifecycle is efficient and error-free.

Key Components of AWS Bootcamp Training

A well-structured AWS Bootcamp is designed to cover the entire DevOps lifecycle—from planning and development to deployment and monitoring. Below are some of the core areas of focus:

1. DevOps Fundamentals

Before diving into the specifics of AWS, bootcamps lay the groundwork with essential DevOps fundamentals. This includes:

An introduction to agile methodologies.

The significance of continuous integration (CI) and continuous deployment (CD).

Best practices in collaboration, version control with Git, and security in DevOps.

Understanding these core principles is critical, as they form the backbone of effective DevOps practices and set the stage for more advanced topics.

2. AWS Cloud Infrastructure

Participants gain hands-on experience with AWS cloud infrastructure. Training modules typically cover:

Setting up and managing virtual servers using AWS EC2 for DevOps.

Configuring secure, scalable storage solutions.

Networking and security configurations to protect sensitive data and applications.

This foundational knowledge ensures that you can deploy and manage applications confidently in a cloud environment.

3. Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)

Automation is a key theme in DevOps, and bootcamps place significant emphasis on CI/CD pipelines. Trainees learn how to:

Set up automated pipelines using AWS CodePipeline.

Integrate testing frameworks to ensure code quality.

Deploy applications seamlessly using AWS CodeDeploy.

By mastering CI/CD with AWS, you can dramatically reduce release cycles and improve overall software quality.

4. Infrastructure as Code (IaC)

Infrastructure as Code is revolutionizing how IT infrastructure is provisioned and managed. Bootcamp sessions on Infrastructure as Code (IaC) typically include:

Hands-on training with AWS CloudFormation to automate resource provisioning.

Best practices for versioning infrastructure configurations.

Strategies for scaling applications reliably using code-based infrastructure management.

IaC not only improves consistency and reliability but also enhances the overall security and manageability of cloud deployments.

5. Monitoring and Logging in AWS

After deployment, monitoring and logging become critical to maintain performance and identify issues quickly. Training covers:

Implementing monitoring solutions to track application performance.

Using AWS logging tools to troubleshoot and resolve issues.

Integrating monitoring solutions with automated alerts to ensure proactive maintenance.

These practices help ensure that your deployed applications remain robust and perform optimally, even under variable load conditions.

6. Containerization with Docker on AWS

Modern DevOps practices often involve containerization to ensure portability and scalability. Bootcamp training on Containerization with Docker on AWS typically covers:

Building and managing Docker containers.

Deploying containerized applications on AWS.

Leveraging AWS services like AWS Elastic Beanstalk and Amazon ECS (Elastic Container Service) for container orchestration.

Containerization simplifies application deployment and scaling, making it an invaluable skill for modern DevOps professionals.

7. Advanced AWS DevOps Tools and Best Practices

The AWS Bootcamp Training also introduces advanced topics such as:

AWS Lambda for DevOps: Using serverless computing to enhance agility.

Security in DevOps: Integrating security best practices into every stage of the DevOps lifecycle.

Scalability with AWS: Leveraging AWS to build systems that scale effortlessly in response to demand.

These advanced modules ensure that participants are not just familiar with AWS tools, but can also apply DevOps best practices to create robust, scalable, and secure systems.

Benefits of AWS Bootcamp Training

Accelerated Learning Curve

One of the primary advantages of an AWS Bootcamp is its intensive curriculum that compresses months or even years of learning into a short, focused period. This accelerated learning curve means that you can rapidly acquire the skills necessary to:

Implement Continuous Integration (CI)

Master Continuous Deployment (CD) with AWS

Apply Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles

Hands-On Practical Experience

Bootcamp training emphasizes practical, real-world applications. You’ll work on projects that mimic industry scenarios, ensuring that you gain:

Practical experience with AWS DevOps tools.

A solid understanding of Automation in DevOps.

The ability to design, deploy, and manage cloud infrastructure effectively.

This hands-on approach ensures that you are job-ready as soon as you complete your training.

Enhanced Career Opportunities

With the rapid growth of cloud computing and the rising importance of DevOps, professionals with AWS skills are in high demand. Graduates of AWS Bootcamp Training are well-positioned to:

Drive innovation in their organizations.

Implement scalable, secure, and efficient cloud solutions.

Lead initiatives that leverage AWS cloud infrastructure for business transformation.

Whether you’re looking to advance within your current role or transition into a new career, the skills acquired through bootcamp training are highly marketable.

Networking and Mentorship

AWS Bootcamp Training also provides valuable networking opportunities. You’ll connect with like-minded professionals, experienced mentors, and industry experts who can guide your career growth. The community aspect of a bootcamp is invaluable for:

Exchanging ideas and best practices.

Staying updated with the latest trends in DevOps and cloud computing.

Receiving career support and advice from seasoned professionals.

Implementing DevOps Best Practices with AWS

To truly reap the benefits of your AWS Bootcamp training, it’s important to integrate the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired into your daily work. Here are some strategies to implement DevOps best practices:

1. Automate Everything

Automation lies at the heart of DevOps. Whether it’s code deployment or infrastructure provisioning, automate repetitive tasks using tools like AWS CodePipeline, AWS CodeDeploy, and AWS CloudFormation. Automation not only reduces human error but also accelerates your development lifecycle.

2. Embrace Continuous Integration and Deployment

By setting up robust CI/CD pipelines, you ensure that your code is constantly tested and deployed. This approach minimizes the risks associated with manual deployments and allows you to quickly roll back changes if necessary.

3. Leverage Version Control with Git

Effective version control is essential for tracking changes and collaborating with your team. Use Git to manage code repositories, merge changes, and maintain a detailed history of your projects. This practice is fundamental to successful DevOps operations.

4. Focus on Security and Compliance

Security in DevOps is critical, especially when dealing with sensitive data and complex cloud infrastructures. Implement security best practices at every stage of the development lifecycle. Utilize AWS security tools and protocols to protect your applications and data from threats.

5. Monitor, Log, and Optimize

After deployment, continuous monitoring and logging are crucial for maintaining the health and performance of your applications. Use AWS monitoring tools to gain insights into system performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize resource utilization. Regularly review logs to troubleshoot issues and refine your processes.

6. Stay Agile and Adaptive

The world of DevOps is ever-changing. Stay agile by continuously learning, experimenting with new tools, and adapting to emerging trends. Embrace a culture of continuous improvement that allows you to refine your processes and drive innovation.

Real-World Use Cases and Success Stories

Case Study: Automating Deployment with AWS CodePipeline

Consider an organization that faced challenges with slow, error-prone manual deployments. By implementing an automated pipeline with AWS CodePipeline and AWS CodeDeploy, the company was able to reduce deployment times from hours to minutes. This transformation not only increased operational efficiency but also enhanced product quality and customer satisfaction.

Case Study: Infrastructure as Code Transformation

Another success story comes from a team that transitioned from manual server provisioning to using AWS CloudFormation for IaC. This change enabled them to manage their cloud infrastructure with greater consistency, reduce downtime during deployments, and achieve a scalable architecture that could quickly adapt to increased demand.

The Impact on Career Growth

Many professionals who have completed AWS Bootcamp Training report significant career advancements. Whether it’s stepping into a DevOps leadership role or transitioning into a specialized cloud engineering position, the skills acquired from bootcamp training open doors to new opportunities. These professionals not only implement AWS cloud infrastructure efficiently but also become ambassadors of DevOps best practices within their organizations.

The Future of DevOps and AWS

As technology continues to evolve, the synergy between DevOps and AWS will become even more pronounced. Here’s what to expect in the coming years:

Increased Automation and AI Integration

The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into DevOps tools is on the rise. Future AWS DevOps tools are expected to incorporate predictive analytics and intelligent automation, further streamlining the development and deployment processes.

Greater Emphasis on Containerization and Serverless Architectures

With the growing adoption of containerization with Docker and serverless computing via AWS Lambda for DevOps, the future landscape will emphasize lightweight, agile, and highly scalable application architectures.

Enhanced Security and Compliance Frameworks

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, integrating robust security measures into DevOps workflows will remain a priority. Continuous monitoring, automated compliance checks, and real-time threat detection will be essential components of future AWS solutions.

Continuous Learning and Upskilling

The rapid pace of technological change means that continuous learning is more important than ever. Participating in advanced bootcamps, workshops, and training sessions will be critical for professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve in the competitive field of DevOps.

Conclusion

AWS Bootcamp Training is an excellent investment for anyone looking to accelerate their DevOps career. By covering essential topics—from DevOps fundamentals and AWS cloud infrastructure to Continuous Integration (CI), Continuous Deployment (CD) with AWS, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC)—this training equips you with the practical skills and hands-on experience required to thrive in a competitive market.

You’ll learn how to effectively use a suite of powerful AWS DevOps tools such as AWS CloudFormation, AWS CodePipeline, AWS CodeDeploy, and more. In addition, you’ll master key practices in automation, containerization with Docker, and monitoring and logging in AWS, all while staying true to DevOps best practices.

As cloud computing continues to evolve, the integration of advanced technologies like serverless computing and container orchestration will further enhance the potential of AWS. By staying agile, embracing continuous improvement, and leveraging the latest AWS technologies, you can build scalable, secure, and resilient systems that drive business success.

Take the Next Step in Your DevOps Journey with Kodestree

If you’re ready to transform your career and gain hands-on expertise in AWS and DevOps, consider enrolling in an AWS Bootcamp Training program. At Kodestree, we offer comprehensive, industry-focused courses that empower you to master essential AWS tools and DevOps practices. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to upskill, our training programs provide the practical knowledge and real-world experience needed to accelerate your career.

Enroll today at Kodestree and take the first step towards becoming a leader in DevOps. Embrace the future of cloud computing and automation—your journey to success starts now!

[sthilarions]

What is a ghost but an angel on earth?

Edwin went to his afterlife, he was processed. And now his assignment does not read Hell, so, the universe’s fundamental bureaucracy assumes, he must have been processed into Heaven. So he must have an angelic form. Reality updates itself accordingly.

Edwin’s wings flicker between shining white, so bright they almost hurt Charles’s dead eyes to look at, and ashy gray, burned and bloody and broken, and that hurts so much more. At first Edwin leaves a trail of feathers wherever he goes, feathers that are crimson-stained and fire-blacked. Eventually they find a way to keep him temporarily in his broken form, long enough for Charles to carefully tend to his wings, healing and cleaning and finally gently aligning the feathers that are now so bright he wears sunglasses as he completes his task.

There is nothing they can do about the way they seem to have been broken and healed wrong and broken again, over and over, the delicate bones snapped out of their natural elegant arch into a jagged curve that sings agony into his long-gone nerves. Edwin can’t fly, at first. His broken wings can bear no weight and he can’t trust himself to hold the other form in the air.

There is a particularly dangerous case and Edwin grabs Charles, partly solid from iron, and leaps into the air, wings lifting them gracefully until he flickers and they’re tumbling down to earth with wings wrapped protectively around Charles and then another flicker and they’re flying again. It is after this that he spends months learning how to hold his healthy wings for longer, hovering over the office roof until he crashes down and then lifting himself again. And again. Until he learns to fly.

It is exhausting, holding his wings in that form, and he collapses in the office after, wings limp against the ground, taking up most of the space, ugly and twisted. But Charles doesnt seem to find them so. Every time, he steps carefully around the feathers on the floor, finds the muscle and bone, and digs his fingers in, massaging until the ache feels distant, replaced by a warm haze.

And when Edwin carries Charles into the stars, mighty wings beating against the clouds, moonlight glinting blindingly against his gleaming feathers, and Charles looks at him with something that can only be described as awe, well. It feels quite worth it.

[ralkana]

Fluffbruary, Day 3

February 3: umbrella | seashore | mist

Dream of the Endless / Hob Gadling

Rated G

-----

They are in the Dreaming. His stranger has returned to him, and called him friend, named himself Dream, and they have since met a score of times. They have exchanged stories, traded smiles, shared wine and confidences, and his stranger, his friend, Dream, expressed a wish to show Hob his home. His realm.

So here they stand. He knows he is curled up on his bed in his flat, sleeping deeply, but he is also here. A beautiful sunny day, a gorgeous meadow, a light breeze.

"How does it work?" Hob asks, curious, always curious, and even more so when it comes to anything to do with his friend, his - well. Anything to do with Dream.

"You are a dreamer, and you are here at my request," Dream tells him. "This world, my realm, is for the dreamers. You only need wish, and whatever you wish for will be at hand."

"But you - you've said you are the Dreaming, and the Dreaming is you."

"Yes. That is a simplified answer, but fundamentally correct."

Hob grins. "I'm a simple man, my friend."

Dream's smile is small but fond. "You are anything but, Hob Gadling."

"So if you are the Dreaming, and I ask for something, it is you who provides it, yes?"

" - Yes." Dream's hesitation is brief, so brief it might be missed by anyone who hasn't spent every minute in his presence hungrily studying him. "If I so choose."

"Hmm," Hob says, considering. He does not wish to ask for anything his friend might not freely give. He has wondered lately, what the limits there might be. He thinks those limits may have changed, might be changing still.

In the real world - in the waking, he thinks carefully, a concept Dream has taught him. This world he inhabits now is no less real. In the waking, it is midwinter, cold and dreary, and he has longed for a reprieve.

"This is the kind of day fit for a warm summer rainstorm," he says, and laughs in delight as the clear sky slowly fills with clouds, wispy at first and then heavy with promise. There is a rumble of distant thunder, and then the patter of gentle rain.

Hob laughs again and lifts his face to it, closing his eyes as he feels the raindrops slide through his hair, caress his cheeks.

He opens his eyes, eager to see his friend in the rain, to see it slide down his nose, drip off his chin. Dream, of course, is completely dry in the midst of the rain, though it puddles at his feet and bends the grass around him.

"You are a wonder," Hob says, in awe of the power his friend so casually displays.

Dream's eyes widen at the words, and his fond smile tucks slightly, almost shy. Diffident, it would have been called once - that word has mostly fallen out of favor, and Hob could never have imagined it applied to his stranger. But this is no longer his stranger.

"Should you not wish for an umbrella, now?" Dream asks, his voice catching as Hob lifts his arms to the sky, runs his fingers through his dripping hair. "Or shelter from the rain?"

"No," Hob tells him, watching him through the rain, feeling it settle into his clothes, the drops sliding down his body. "I want to feel it on my skin."

You are the Dreaming, he thinks. And the Dreaming is you. I want to feel you on my skin.

Dream draws in a sharp breath, and Hob shivers as he watches his eyes darken, grow hungry. His long fingers flutter, as if to reach, to clutch, before curling into fists. Holding himself back. Denying himself.

There is no need for that, my Dream, he thinks.

"I wish," he says, but he falters. He is sure. He is sure of what he wants, and he is sure of what Dream wants, but he was sure before, and the cost was great.

Cool fingers brush his cheek, and he gasps. Dream is so near Hob can see the glitter of galaxies in his eyes. The rain falls on him now, in his dark lashes and on the pale perfection of his skin.

"What do you wish for?" Dream murmurs, his voice so low it feels like it is merely an ache in Hob's chest.

Everything you wish to give, he thinks.

"A kiss," he says, and the sun breaks through the clouds once more as their lips meet.

END

-----

Thanks to @fluffbruary for the inspiration!

[tokiwarcube]

Hi !! Can I request a fluff alphabet for Charles offdensen? ^^

I love your writing btw your one of my favorite mtl writers >_< !!

Aw, thank you so much for the kind words!! I left a few letters out here and there, mostly for overlapping reasons, but most of 'em are here. Regardless -- enjoy! <3

D reams - How do they picture their future with their s/o?

It’s difficult, the life Charles leads. Being a manager was a full-time job, and that was nothing compared to being the High Holy Priest. He sees a future with you, and it’s bright and everything he’s ever wanted… and yet for the first time in his life, he struggles to put it into words. It’s more of a feeling than a concrete vision — sleepy mornings in bed, the touch of smooth silk and velvet, and a light roast coffee so fresh that the steam still rises from it. He dreams of calm, whatever that might actually be.

E qual - Are they the dominant one in the relationship, or rather passive?

He’s a mix, but he definitely leans towards the more dominant side of things. He knows when to go with the flow, and when to let you make the decisions, but at the end of the day he’s a man of immense calculation and control. It’s nice to be taken care of, regardless.

F ight - Would they be easy to forgive their s/o? How are they fighting?

He doesn’t get angry often, but when he does, he has the tendency to pull back and isolate himself a bit. Which, ironically, is usually the source of any arguments. Arguments are rare, but when they happen, they’re usually resolved with a bit of communication.

G ratitude - How grateful are they in general? Are they aware of what their s/o is doing for them?

He’s grateful beyond words — I elaborate on this a bit more in the next prompt, but truly, you are so, so important to him. And despite the hectic nature of his life, he really does make every effort to show you just how much you mean to him.

I nspiration - Did their s/o change them somehow, or the other way around? Like trying out new things or helped them overcome personal problems?

Are we not changed by everyone we meet? Charles is fundamentally still the same person after falling in love with you of course, but you teach him a lot. How to take a damn breath, chiefly. But it’s more than that. It’s easy, with the amount of responsibility that he’s saddled with, to forget that he is still just a man. A human man, carrying the literal weight of the world on his back. The importance of your presence in his life cannot be understated. He’s not sure what he would do without you by his side.

J ealousy - Do they get jealous easily? How do they deal with it?

Not really, no. He trusts you completely, and he’s fantastic at reading peoples’ intent. Jealousy happens maybe once in a lifetime with him, and even then, that’s a strong maybe. In the event that it does happen, he’s quiet about it. Might stand a fraction closer to you than normal, or perhaps give you his jacket if its an appropriate setting for it — all little things that are all but imperceptible to anyone but you.

K iss - Are they a good kisser?

He kisses like he’s committing the moment to memory. It doesn’t matter when or where it is — if he’s kissing you, his lips will always linger for just a second longer as you part. He tends to keep his kisses chaste, although this isn’t a hard rule by any means.

N icknames - What do they call their s/o?

“Dear” and “sweetheart” are his go-tos — he finds most petnames to be awkward. They sound clunky and ingenuine to him, save for those two. And besides, there’s a million other “babes” in the world… your name though, that’s special. He’ll cycle between just using your name, and his two classics, with a slightly stronger lean towards “dear.”

O n Cloud Nine - What are they like when they are in love? Is it obvious for others? How do they express their feelings?

He’s all soft smiles and leisurely glances. Firm hands on the small of your back in crowds, quick texts to check in on you when you’re apart. Lots of little things that wouldn’t ping as “head over heels in love” to anyone but you, really.

P DA - Are they upfront about their relationship? Do they brag with their s/o in front of others? Or are they rather shy to kiss etc. when others are watching?

It depends on the situation. He’s unlikely to bring up your relationship to the boys unprompted, but he won’t deny the accusations should they come across. Any questions of why he didn’t tell them sooner is simply met with a "You didn’t ask,” or an “I didn’t think it was relevant.” He’s not one to kiss in front of others, although it’s less out of shyness and more out of professionalism — although again, he won’t reject you if you steal a kiss from him, in most circumstances. Although, he is reluctant to show off your relationship to the media, or anyone outside of the band — He might not be under the same threat of attack as the boys, but he’s not exempt from danger. He’d prefer not to put you in any unnecessary risk.

R omance - How romantic are they? What would they do to make their s/o happy? Cliché or rather creative?

He’s such a closet romantic. You wouldn’t think it with the exterior he puts up for everyone else, but he’s so 50’s in showing his love — in a good way! If you let him plan a date, he’s the type to default to flowers and a nice dinner. It’s not cliché, it’s a tried and true classic. He’s happy to go along with any adventures you plan though, even if it is a bit out of his normal depth.

S upport - Are they helping their s/o achieve their goals? Do they believe in them?

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, yes. He’s happy to lend a hand if you need it, and will move mountains for you if you say the word. But if you want to do things solo, that’s okay too — he’s here every step of the way, quietly cheering you on.

T hrill - Do they need to try out new things to spice out your relationship? Or do they prefer a certain routine?

Left to his own devices, he’s prone to falling into a routine. It’s a quiet desire, and one that he really doesn’t get to have 9 times out of 10. So when it comes to you, he takes the certainty of little actions as the boons that they are. Although if you like to live a little more on the wild side, fret not: He’s good at keeping up. Just, you know, don’t forget about movie night. He looks forward to it, you know.

U nderstanding - How good do they know their partner? Are they empathetic?

Charles is great at committing little details to memory, and nowhere is that more evident than with you. He knows you damn well — your likes, dislikes, odd childhood memories and little tells.

Empathy is a difficult concept that I struggle to really quantify. He’s not empathetic in the “you are sad, therefore I am sad” way, but that doesn’t mean he’s uncaring. It’s quite the opposite, in fact. He picks up on your emotions very quick, and while he doesn’t empathize in the traditional way, he cares with a deep intensity. He’s there for you through thick and thin, and will do anything in his power to help.

W ild Card - A random Fluff Headcanon.

He’s a secret enjoyer of fiction novels, and really enjoys reading with you. He’s not a stickler for staying “on topic,” either — he doesn’t mind if you derail a bit to poke fun at one of the characters. He finds it endearing actually, to the point where it spawns a lot of silly inside jokes between the two of you. And weirdly, despite giving so many speeches, he is deeply prone to stammering when reading. Once the suit comes off, the man gets completely tongue tied.

X OXO - Are they very affectionate? Do they love to kiss and cuddle?

He’s affectionate in his own way. He’s not a velcro partner, and he’s not going to hunt you down to pull you into an embrace. But he plays with your hands absentmindedly, always keeps a hand on you in crowds, and insists on hooking (and later unhooking) your necklaces every time you wear one. He’s adamant about getting a “good-morning” kiss, and struggles to sleep without you by his side at night.

… and don’t tell anyone, but he’s a secret cuddler at bedtime.

Y earning - How will they cope when they’re missing their partner?

He’s good at coping, genuinely. He’ll shoot you an extra text or two while you’re gone, and might be prone to checking his lockscreen a bit more often (both to see if you’ve messaged him, and to look at the photo of you that adorns it). But other than that, he likely throws himself into his work a bit more. Might as well be productive.

Z eal - Are they willing to go to great lengths for the relationship? If so, what kind of?

To the Doomstar and back again.

[gremnoire]

thanks for responding to my ask! i'd be interested in moodboards for Antigreen, i'd love to find out more about other inspirations for it. (also, is Calliope's last name an intentional reference to mondegreens?)

Alright fasten your iridescent seatbelts because I'm about to ~yap~ about Antigreen (AO3)

First up: what's in a title? Food (flavor) colouring, for one:

Quarks are the fundamental building blocks of matter, and there's six flavors: up, down, charm, strange, top (formerly truth), and bottom (formerly beauty). They all carry colour charge, which can be red, green, or blue, or for antiquarks their opposites: antired (cyan), antigreen (magenta), antiblue (yellow). The core six in AG (Callie, Ettie, Sawyer, Annette, Erika, Michael) all get a color and a quark each. (Which is which is left as an exercise to the reader lol)

Magenta is most interesting to me because it's not a spectral color: it's the only one of the six that's not monochromatic, or 'real', it's an illusion we perceive when something has high amounts of both red and blue light.

The visible spectrum: you won't find pink here!

That's the kind of dichotomy I was going for with 'Antigreen': the word evokes both greenness (the Earth, growth, but also stagnation, a toxic color that often meant death ) and antigreenness (pink, irreality, something unnatural and alien). It's the perfect word to marry the two together; it represents CalliEttie themselves to me!

Pink/magenta also has a history of being used to represent the titular Colour Out of Space, one of Lovecraft's better short stories, about an unnatural alien hue that arrives on Earth. It's used this way in a few adaptations, below which is a gif from the 2019 film version:

(The Colour Out of Space, 2019, IMDB)

Pink is used for various eldritch stuff in other media too, once you notice it once you kinda start to see it everywhere, beware...

The 2019 Colour is good, but I honestly think Annihilation (2018) is a better expression of similar ideas. It concerns a group of women investigating a meteorite that's landed at a lighthouse and is slowly warping the surrounding area:

(Annihilation, 2018, IMDB)

Shit does indeed get warped as fuck; I recommend.

Annihilation has some really great examples of the Gothic sublime . Think glimpsing a tidal wave, staring up at a mountain, or being on the edge of a black hole. Something so great and terrible that it overwhelms the senses, the kind of awful beauty that brings tears to your eye, and can't be easily described in words.

That's what cosmic horror's all about! imo, anyway: Antigreen is about what happens when a(sapphic)n earthly and unearthly realm meet, and I've hopefully made Esther seem suitably sublime.

Anyway that's the inspo behind the title, and why Esther's strongly associated with the color pink (of my made-up/constructed color names, nemaphlox would be the applicable one I guess).

I'd leave it here for now, with plans to do another of these for Callie and Ettie, but I have to also answer your question: (remember that? It was so long ago and so many pixels above, sorry)

> Is Calliope's last name an intentional reference to mondegreens?

Yep, again, spot on! A mondegreen is the English term for misheard lyrics, and is autological: it describes itself. I swapped the last two letters, making Mondegrene, for a few reasons:

- obscures the origin to make a slightly more plausible surname

- enables various bad French calembours like mond de grené ("grainy world", fitting for a little speck like Calliope). Disclaimer: I rather suck at French

- also similar to French grenade (pomegranate), a fruit with very gay associations

Lastly (I promise!) I'll link the cover art I had made with the ambigram I designed. The swirls are intended to evoke tracks in particle-detecting cloud chambers!

Thanks for putting up with this~ I will do more of these if people enjoy them!

[ruins-of-gods]

Fundamentally do not understand the smug 'gotcha' attitude towards Lovecraftian horror.

There's this sort of pervailing attitude that it's an inherently stupid kind of horror, and only a stupid person would be scared of it (as opposed to Guy With A Slightly Weird Face, which of course everyone is scared of). I assume it started from the idea that having an existential crisis about your place in the universe is childish, because I guess finding anything but comfort in human transience and insignificance makes you a Bad Person who Wallows in Doom And Gloom. But then it sort of evolved into this idea that media and conversations about that idea must always be ironic - if actually taking those ideas seriously is childish, than the Cool and Mature thing to do must be to treat them like a big joke. Even if they are treated seriously - like the Magnus Archives' Vast - there's always this undercurrent of how most of us grow out of our fear of insignificance in the end when real hardships start hitting us.

And. Like. It's just so stupid. It leads to this sort of idea where the only horror that matters - and by extension, the only ideas that matter - are the ones on the ground, which are Important and Real and Everyday and totally not just made-up things that little clouds of animate dust get way too invested in. It gets you into this mindset where all there is is planet Earth and all there has ever been is a few thousand years of human history. Remember awe? Remember when you learned that dinosaurs lived hundreds of millions of years ago, and your brain stretched as you tried to imagine that much time? Remember when you looked up at the sky, and your stomach dropped as you realized how fucking big everything was? You can have that again. That isn't a phase that everyone grows out of. That is the human experience. Look up, and remember that you are a fleeting thing on a planet that has seen a thousand others, on a tiny speck that drifts in a universe so big you can't even understand it. Feel fear. Feel dread. Feel joy. Feel relief. Feel awe. But for heavens' sake, let yourself take it seriously.

[broodwoof]

prompts based on unusual or rare words

send the word and a character/relationship (romantic, familial, platonic, adversarial, etc.) and i'll write something based around it! (feel free to use/rb/etc)

accismus - feigning disinterest in something while actually desiring it

aestivate - to spend the summer in a state of torpor or dormancy

agathism - the belief in the ultimate triumph of good over evil

agelast - a person who never laughs

anemoia - nostalgia for a time you’ve never known

apatheia - freedom or release from emotion or excitement

apotheosis - the highest point or peak, often used to describe the pinnacle of achievement or greatness

apricity - the warmth of the sun in winter

apricate - to bask in the sun

aureate - something that is golden, shining, or brilliant

bêtise - an act of foolishness or stupidity

cacography - bad handwriting

chrysalism - the peaceful feeling that comes from being indoors during a thunderstorm

clinomania - an excessive desire to stay in bed or a reluctance to get out of bed

efflorescence - a blooming or flowering, often used to describe a period of creativity or prosperity.

eleutheromania - an intense desire for freedom or liberation

ephemeral - something that is fleeting or short-lived, often used to describe a moment or feeling

eunoia - beautiful thinking or a well-disposed mind

galvanize - to arouse to awareness or action

hypnagogic - relating to the state of drowsiness or transition to sleep, often used to describe the strange, dreamlike experiences that can happen during this time

insouciant - casually or smugly indifferent; nonchalant

irenic - promoting peace or reconciliation, often used to describe a peaceful personality or a peaceful solution to conflict

limerence - the state of being infatuated or obsessed with someone or something

makebate - one that excites contention and quarrels

matrisate - to imitate one's mother

metanoia - a fundamental change in one's beliefs

nihilarian - a person who deals with things lacking in substance or meaning, often in a philosophical sense

noctivagant - going about in the night; night-wandering

nubivagant - wandering in the clouds, often used to describe a dreamer or someone lost in thought

numinous - something that is spiritual, mysterious, or awe-inspiring

obfuscate - to muddle; confuse; bewilder

patrizate - to imitate one's father or forebears

pernicious - causing great harm; destructive

perspicacious - having keen judgement or understanding; acutely perceptive

pessimum - the least favorable environmental condition under which an organism can survive

philostorgie - the love of parent's towards their children

pot-valor - boldness or courage resulting from alcoholic drink

prevaricate - to behave in an evasive or indecisive manner, usually in delay

recogitate - to think over again

redame - to love in return

saudade - an emotional state of melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing for a beloved yet absent something or someone

scintilla - a spark or tiny amount of something, often used to describe a small flash of inspiration

scripturient- having a strong urge to write

sehnsucht - yearning; wistful longing

selcouth - describes something that is unfamiliar, strange, and yet marvelous at the same time

sempiternal - something that is eternal or everlasting

solivagrant - rambling alone; marked by solitary wandering

supernal - something that is heavenly or divine

timorous - full of or subject to fear; timid

velleity - a mere wish or inclination that lacks the motivation or intention to act on it

verisimilitude - the appearance of being true or real

[refigiowen]

The Fox and The Cat and The Swallow (4&5)

"Black Emperor"

I hate myself more than anything and anyone else i have ever met, will meet, or have done as little as trade a small fleeting glance with. I hate how i function, how i interpret, how i am at my very fundamental being. And i hate how i cannot even explain and put it into words, no, thoughts why i feel the way i feel about things that i cannot change or influence.

I get furious over the smallest things, a trait i inherited from my father. I tend to put the blame on those around me so that i may not have to sink within the depths of my own self loathing. That i inherited from my mother. I struggle to express what i truly feel, love and admiration, and beat myself into a pulp when i am left standing there alone.

On the happiest days i observe the singular cloud up above instead of the beautiful clear sky, for all the good i receive i see as wasted. "I do not deserve it", i think to myself.

"18"

It is so hard for me to keep a clear head. Pressure is an awful concept. I cannot stop thinking about it, i feel terrible. I will vomit soon, i feel.

What else must i do to feel good? To feel loved?

I don't understand it. Why is it never me? Does some deity hold a grudge against me, does it wish despair upon me? Someone please tell me, for nothing makes sense anymore.

[dertaglichedan]

Cloud and AI are ‘fundamentally changing’ ability to forecast weather, NOAA chief says

LAS VEGAS — National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration head Rick Spinrad said this week that even as hurricanes, wildfires and other weather events worsen, the use of innovative tech like cloud computing and AI is improving the agency’s ability to predict and forecast them.

“This is fundamentally changing our ability to do probably the most important thing in our business, and that's predict, project and forecast,” said Spinrad, speaking at AWS’ re:Invent 2024 conference in Las Vegas.

Spinrad said NOAA, which houses the National Weather Service and owns or operates 18 weather satellites, archives about 230 terabytes of environmental data per month from various observational platforms, ranging from the sea, to ships and even space.

That data is then hosted by commercial cloud service providers and made available to the public and nascent climate industry through NOAA’s Open Data Dissemination program, or NODD. AWS, Spinrad said, now hosts 32 petabytes of environmental information, or about “half of [NOAA’s] holdings.”

“Our ability to collect these data, put them on NODD, store them in a system that allows AI applications, is really critical,” Spinrad said. “And it's not just for our use at NOAA. We are supporting a burgeoning climate industrial effort, a commercial weather enterprise. We are now collecting enough environmental information — enough environmental intelligence — to make a fundamental difference.”

According to Spinrad, the difference includes improved access to critical weather data for incident meteorologists in the field. Using another tool from Amazon, AppStream 2.0, incident meteorologists dispatched to the scenes of floods, droughts, storms and wildfires can “have the same kind of access to our advanced weather information and interactive processing system that they would back at the home office.”

Spinrad said forecasters have been able to make a “seven year advancement in forecast capability in a matter of months using AI, using the training data [NOAA] now has access to.” Such advancements would not be possible without the ability to assimilate new data types, he added, noting that autonomous systems, satellites and surface-based robots all provide data that can go into forecasts.

[grainstealingthot]

MDZS Novel Notes

Aggression - Part One (Exiled Rebels Version)

before we get into this, i'm going to shorted Exiled Rebels as ERS. because this is my blog and i do what i want. I've heard that they translate WWX's cultivation name better in this one. And also it's easier for me to read and type at the same time like this lol.

Anyways, obligatory spoiler warning. I am making note of my thoughts while reading through the MDZS novels. If you have not read them, you will see spoilers below the cut.

No water in the room. Only basin-like container is probably meant for toilet purposes and not cleaning.

Door is latched from the outside to keep him in.

WWX: "None of these things made him feel the joy of reincarnation at all!" (he's literally so dramatic in an intentionally funny way lol. i really do love him)

He meditates for a full day. HE MEDITATES FOR A FULL DAY. Without being forced into it, even. Stop making it seem as if he's incapable of performing the most fundamental part of culitivation.

After cultivation for a literal day, nonstop, he stands up and gets lightheaded (happens to me too dw wwx)

WWX - mxy's spiritual powers are so insignificant they shouldn't be affecting my control of this body. so why's it not working right??

WWX: literally forgets that he needs to eat to function normally (...same)

"If the didn't scavenge for food, he might become the first villainous ghoul who starved to death upon arrival." (ERS)

(i ofc know that he specifies that the body hasn't practiced inedia, and that's why it feels hunger, but it's really funny to know that he forgets he's supposed to eat lol)

Door of room has a mini door at the bottom so food can be pushed through.

Food is unpleasant looking, and the servants are rude as fuck to mxy (now wwx)

wwx feels quite bitter about all of this lol

my fave quote so far:

"The Yiling Patriarch had just returned to the mortal world, but the first thing he came upon was a kick and a scolding, not to mention the leftovers that served as his welcoming-meal. Where were the blood and gore? The ruthless slaughter? The absolute destruction? Who would believe him? He was like the tiger in a flatland, the dragon in shallow water, the phoenix without feathers, losing his advantage and belittled by those weaker than him." (ERS)

i just know he's pouting while thinking this and picking at the food passive-aggressively lol

name of the servant bringing him food - A-Tong

2nd servant - A-Ding

A-Ding remarks that A-Tong only has to deliver one meal a day. (... man i really feel so bad for mxy...)

They mention that there a lot of walking corpses about.

usually dull-eyed and sluggish, unless the dead person held a lot of resentment, but they are enough to harm the average person, esp their awful smell

WWX literally thinks of them as the most obeying puppets, and feels a sense of familiarity when he hears about them. (weirdo /affectionate)

A-Ding mentions cultivators from a prominent clan came to Mo Village to deal with the corpses.

Madam is talking w them in the main hall, and everyone in town is watching.

WWX listens attentively, ponders for a moment, this stands and kicks the door down (lmao love him)

Scares the two servants badly enough that they start screaming lmao

A-Tong tries to save face in front of the girl he likes, by waving his hands about like he's shooing a dog away. (noted that by narrator that "A-Tong treated [MXY] even worse than he treated a beggar or a fly" (ERS) and that most of the servants also treated mxy like this bc he never resisted)

WWX gives him a light kick and knocks him over, then laughs "How daring of a mere errand-running child to humiliate others like this." (ugh i love him)

WWX interrupts the meeting with the cultivators, and he seems to do a great job at playing the lunatic lmao

Notices that the cultivators are older teens, from Gusu Lan, and that they all were blood-relations to the Lan family, as their ribbons all had cloud patters sewn onto them.

"Wei Wuxian got toothaches whenever he saw anybody from the Lan clan." (ERS) (...yeah buddy, i bet you do. you sure have a lot to say about the lans lol)

Madam Mo gets her husband to try and remove WWX. And WWX drops to the ground and tightly clings to the floor. Nobody can get him up, even when they call for more help (lmao #1 tantrum thrower)

ppl in the crowd know that Mo family had a "young master who lost his marbles"(ERS), and that mxy hid in that dark room for a cpl of years, scared to go outside.

WWX confront MZY about him stealing his(mxy's) things

MZY tries to kick WWX again, but one of the Lan boys stops him ("moved his fingers slightly, and Mo Ziyuan's feet slipped" (ERS))

WWX stills acts like he was actually kicks, and shows off the footprint MZY made the day before

The crowd, while enjoying the show, begins to think that MXY wasn't this insane when he first came back and that the abuse he faces made him worse

Madam Mo seems to realize that MXY(wwx) is doing this on purpose, and remarks that he's clearheaded

The also refers to MZY and MXY as being brothers and that as the older brother, MXY should share (ugh i HATED hearing this growing up. idc if i'm the older sibling, i shouldn't be forced to give my things away just to get destroyed)

WWX.... really plays up MXY being into men here lmao. "Everyone knows that I am into men. Even if he was not ashamed, I knew to not look suspicious."(ERS)

he is... really loving not having to worry about his status here XD how freeing this must feel. able to act like the gremlin he really is and not have to worry about anyone but himself

"I don't care about your reputation, but don't ruin my innocence! I still want to find a good man!"(ERS) -WWX (don't worry bby, you will soon)

WWX successfully provokes MZY into more violence, then hides behind the Lan boys, who stop MZY.

Mdm Mo tries to convince the Lans that MXY is insane and shouldn't be taken seriously, to which WWX responds "Who said that my words shouldn't be taken seriously? Next time, try stealing anything from me again. You steal once, and I cut off one of your hands!" (ERS) -wwx... babe... foreshadowing loves you...

WWX makes a hasty escape, and one of the Lans tells Mdm Mo that they'll be in the West Courtyard for the night, and for them to not go outside at night, close all windows, and avoid that courtyard.

WWX, walking around the village, "finally realized the delight of being a lunatic" (ERS) and was even starting to like the makeup resembling a hanged ghost. (he's the number 1 brat for sure lmao)

WWX notes that the cuts on his arm haven't healed, so the humiliation of the family isn't enough to satisfy the ritual.

He heads back to the Mo family's West Courtyard, where the Lan discipled are standing on the roofs and walls.

another great quote here:

"Although the Gusu Lan contributed greatly during the siege on him, at that time, these juniors were either not born yet or still young children. He shouldn't direct his hate towards them, so Wei Wuxian decided to linger around and observe what they were going to do."(ERS)

>he's a gremlin, but he's a good person. A lesser man would have taken this opportunity to harm/kill the kids to get back at the clan that participated his death. But he acknowledges that they were probably literal babies when it happened, so it wouldn't be right to be angry at them. And then he proceeds to assign himself as their babysitter lol

WWX notices that they're using Phantom Attraction Flags/Black Wind Flags (and also notes what they do and stuff)

How does he recognize them? Bc he was the creator. So although the cultivation world hated him, they sure were eager to use his inventions.

One of the Lans tries to send him away (WWX notes that the disciple is using a kind tone)

WWX steals one of the flags and starts acting out again

disciple catches him and threatens to hit him

leader of the boys comes over and scolds the disciple, telling him to not make a fuss and take the flag (this disciple being scolded is ofc Jingyi, our precious loudmouthed Lan)

and the leader of the disciples is none other than Lan Sizhui, goodest boy ever.

anyways, wwx manages to look over the flag and verifies that it was drawn correctly, and that whoever drew it was lacking experience so it wouldn't draw in from too far away (seriously... kids are part of a clan that helped kill him and here he is making sure they're being safe on a nighthunt! wwx they can never make me hate you)

LSZ gently tries to ask him to leave, believing ofc that MXY is MXY. WWX notes he is "fair and refined, with a dignified appearance and smiling faintly." (ERS). wwx silently approves of him.

The flag formation was set well, and his mannerisms were respectful, making him a "disciple with astonishing potential" (ERS)

"He didn't know that, at a conservative clan such as the Lan clan, who on Earth brought up such a junior."(ERS) (wow.... i wonder who among the Lan could possibly raised him. who could it be???? /s)

WWX gives the flag back, and wanders around before heading back to MXY's room. And what does he do?????? He sits down to MEDITATE again.

before daylight comes, he's pulled out of meditation by people coming to MXY's courtyard yelling about notifying officers, dragging him out, and possibly beating him to death.

ch ends on someone yelling "Drag the insane murderer to the Main Hall and make him pay for it with his life!"

wwx... your luck is truly spectacular lol

SO. some fanon stuff being disproven, only 3 chapters in.

Honestly.. where did the idea that "WWX can't do regular meditation easily" come from and why is so popular? 3 chapters in, and he's meditated twice already - the first time for 24hrs straight, and the 2nd time he fully intended to meditate all night! And he does this easily! Doesn't mention difficulty sitting still or anything like that.

Also. Again, we're shown in here that he's not someone who acts without thinking. He's acting the lunatic, but he's doing everything intentionally.

He's also remarkably willing to let go of grudges, easily. I noted it above, but this would have been the prime opportunity to get revenge on Gusu Lan for helping to kill him, but instead he makes sure these kids set up the flags correctly and are being safe.

He also tries to just humiliate the Mo family, rather than jumping straight to murder, though I will admit he doesn't seem too fazed about possibly having to kill them.

So he's someone who can and will resort to violence, but really only as a last resort.

Also he is a very dramatic and chaotic gremlin at heart, and I imagine getting to mess around like this is very liberating in a way. (remember, I watched the donghua all the way through. i know it's not perfect, but still) After his last life went the way it did, having no responsibilities and no one who's life depends on his behavior and not showing any weakness, this has got to be so fun.

Of course, once he does have his fun, he goes and assigns himself as basically the babysitter for the Lan juniors lol

okay that's probably all for tonight. if you've made it this far - thanks. sorry you had to put up with my formatting but I just can't be bothered to make it look pretty lol

feel free to leave your own thoughts in stuff in the comments as well!

<3

[dangermousie]

I have less than four eps of Missing You left so I think my next binge rewatch will be something a little lighter since MY is such an intense thing. Perhaps Moonlight Drawn by Clouds aka one of the other two youth sageuks I ever loved (the other one was Sungkyunkwan Scandal, which I love even more, but I think two Yoochun dramas in a row is a lil much esp since I am still rewatching City Hunter and two Park Minyoung dramas at the same time is even more of a lil much. SKKS is also a rare FL cross dresses as a dude that tackles head on what an identity crisis it would be for a period man with period values to believe he’s gay - the bulk of them sidestep it utterly because either ML doesn’t develop feelings until after FL is out of her disguise or he knows right away she’s a girl so it’s all nice and safe. They don’t use that out in SKKS and I love that, same as I do Coffee Prince because watching a character wrestle with something that would fundamentally change their understanding of themselves is engaging as hell with an extra bonus in SKKS because it’s period so it goes against his whole moral worldview.)

Anyway, Moonlight is the whole girl crossdresses but ML knows and I still love it but also I am always gonna be a bit in awe that I spent the whole drama waiting for ML to keel over because historically the prince he’s playing died young only for the makers to go fuck history how historical did you think this is gonna be and give him a happy ending 😝

Anyway, I think this, SKKS and Moon that Embraces the Sun are the three youth sageuk behemoths that are responsible for that subgenre taking over but I can’t even resent the former two (I loathe the last one but that’s a separate rant post.)

Another MV:

[aliceemersonwrites2]

A Seven-Pointed Star- By aliceemersonwrites2

AO3 WIP

Chapter 17: Tea Time

Brooke Avers POV

Summary: Brooke has tea with Abraxas. The Knights Meeting is revealed. A very disturbing memory emerges.

Excerpt (see full chapter in link above):

"Welcome again. You have been recruited to join an elite group of wizards...and, hopefully, witches soon. Many of you must have questions about this group you may be joining. I cannot answer them all tonight, but I can give you insight into what we want.

"We are not satisfied with the way the wizarding world has been. War. A denial of pride over being witches and wizards. The stymying of progress into researching and knowing magic's depths and fundamental components. A forced stop to some magic altogether. This... is not the world I want to be part of."

Brooke watches in awe as Tom commands the crowd. There is not one person who isn't looking at Tom. Every eye is on him. He stands in his head boy robes. He is behind the table, like the leader he could...would become. Perfect wavy hair, just a hint of naturalness to make it fashionable. His skin was smooth to look at, pale but healthy looking, pulled over his elegant features. The blue-grey eyes. The sensual lips. The high cheekbones. A cutting jaw.

For a moment, Brooke remembers learning about the Christian devil in one of her and Timothy's fun outings, where they snuck into a church during a service. The preacher had said that the devil would seduce his followers. At this moment, surrounded by the abject beauty of a society focused on aesthetics and appearance rather than depth and function, Tom is the most seductive devil ever to walk Hogwarts's halls or exist in the wizarding world.

Tom's voice reverberates through each one like the words of a seasoned politician, a Caesar, a deity convincing the masses of his absolute divinity.

Tom takes pauses at the right moments. His eyes scan the small group before him, looking at each as though the conversation is only for that individual. He never looks at his knights, focusing on the recruits. The speech is more intricate than his hands on the piano, more powerful than any spell from his wand.

Brooke's other five companions seem stunned into an almost reverent silence.

Tom's speech is perfect. Except for the fact that only  Brooke notices - his eyes do not land on hers once. Tom is looking at Jessup, Maple, Orion, Abernathy, and Ivan, luring them, pulling them, enticing them.

However, the storm clouds did not once meet the green grass during Tom's opening remarks.

"There are some...some that think that fixing the magic world is just...a dream. But every dream can be achieved.

"However, I can see the cracks in the foundation. Many of you follow the teachings of your parents and not without warrant. Many of your parents are strong, powerful, influential."

Tom pauses for effect, then takes off his school jacket with the Head Boy badge folded under it, placing it on the back of his chair as if trying to bring himself to the level of those in the room with him. He is now wearing his black sweater, perfectly wound school tie, basic black trousers, and shiny black shoes. Only Brooke knows how little money he has to afford the clothes he wears.

"But I want to make a world outside their limited and frankly DANGEROUS way of thinking. To break apart and create a world of strength of witches and wizards who use magic and know magic and want to be magic. Not those who hide behind wealth. Or purity. Or names.

"We need those old powerful assets to start a new world order.

"But we can't hold to those things forever."

Brooke notices a shift at the table. Abraxas stares up at Tom with shock on his face- a very rare emotion allowed to take over. Avery looks just as shocked but more confused than anything. Lothaire has the biggest smile on his face, like this is all the best joke he has ever been privy to. Prometheus almost looks relieved. But Timothy has not lifted his eyes from Brooke, as if he is still trying to see what she will decide as if he was disappointed that she was there.

Tom's voice ends the intense stare between her and Timothy when she turns back to Tom.

"But as in all things, there must be sacrifice. A foundation must be built. And with the Knights of Walpurgis, we can build this foundation. One that will affect our world. Indefinitely. We will be placed in positions of power, research, and wealth. But it is all to one goal. To ensure our magic world is not lost to the annals of libraries where the books rot and muggles can't read them. Because if we continue this way, your children's children will not have a wizarding world."

[rainbowolfe]

Three of Swords

This is what all of the weapon-themed playing cards in the Pestilence MV are marked with. A sword (or dagger) symbol and the roman numeral 3. This is the same for all the weapons; the blunderbuss, the hammer, the sword, and the dagger.

"The Bomb" tarot card even keeps up the theme of 'three things'.

"The Three of Swords shows a heart pierced by three swords, representing the pain inflicted by words, actions and intent on the emotional and physical self. The dark clouds gathering in the background mirror this pain but offer the hope that, just as the storm clouds will disappear, so too will the pain and hurt you are experiencing."

"This card depicts a fundamentally sorrowful experience—tarot readers suggest this may be in the form of a lost relationship, an accidental death, or some other form of not just depression or malaise but deeply emotional sorrow." "When the card appears "reversed" in a spread, this is not usually read as meaning the "opposite" of sorrow, but rather a sorrow that is somehow mitigated by its circumstances or that is not as bad as it could have been. It is among the most negative cards within the tarot deck."

go ahead and add that to the 'Kallamar is having an awful fucking time' pile lmao

There's four weapons (entities) provided, and by the end of the song, only one weapon remains. The dagger. Contextually, a Holy Hand Grenade is a totally normal bomb, just one that's been given (a) God's blessing.

I've noted before that when Kallamar uses the HHG, the sound effect is that of chains dragging and rattling. Suggesting that the God that blesses this weapon is a God of Death. Or the Chained One, who may or may not have been a Death God.

While it may seem like "Traitor's Razor" means that the user is the traitor, considering what it's referencing (Occam's Razor) it could just as well mean that it's the weapon used on traitors. ie, getting rid of them. I guess in a way the betrayal is mutual.

But also the thrower of the HHG could be the axe or the gauntlet, two weapons that are notably missing from the lineup.

[samarthdas]

Exploring DeepSeek and the Best AI Certifications to Boost Your Career

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With the AI revolution reshaping industries, professionals and students alike must stay ahead by acquiring recognized certifications that validate their skills and knowledge in AI, machine learning, and data science.

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Offered by Google Cloud, this certification demonstrates expertise in designing, building, and productionizing machine learning models.

Best for those who work with TensorFlow and Google Cloud AI tools.

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Hands-on projects with TensorFlow, PyTorch, and SciKit-Learn.

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Covers cognitive services, machine learning models, and NLP applications.

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Choosing the Right AI Certification

Selecting the right certification depends on your career goals, experience level, and preferred AI ecosystem (Google Cloud, AWS, or Azure). If you are a beginner, starting with AICerts, IBM, or DeepLearning.AI is recommended. For professionals looking for specialization, cloud-based AI certifications like Google, AWS, or Microsoft are ideal.

With AI shaping the future, staying certified and skilled will give you a competitive edge in the job market. Invest in your learning today and take your AI career to the next leve

[sybaritick]

the ideal when I write the mind control + hypnosis stuff is typically that it's slow enough that they understand what's happening but they can't stop it, either because they physically can't escape or because it's so slow that it's like boiling the frog and they think it's OK to allow it to go just that little bit further.

it's the fear that gradually ramps up until it spikes like pure undiluted panic held over the span of a few awful moments before it breaks into pleasure. it can be slow like the crest of a wave breaking against the shore. up, up, up, like knowing what this will do and everything seems fuzzy and it's hard to access their own thoughts and they can't remember where they just were but they know they're supposed to get out and they don't know what's happening to them, panic, terror, until they don't mind.

they don't mind that they don't know what's happening, and every thought deeper than the moment has been so thoroughly clouded that they don't remember enough to miss them, and everything is pure form and sensation, tactile and fundamental, emotion without thought. there is nothing of them left to oppose it. the wave against the shore, rushing and pulling back in eternal even beats. hollow, sedate, easy. it feels correct now to be driven by another; this easy, pleasing pull of command that feels nothing like a chain and everything like respite, fulfillment, pleasure.

[xivu-arath]

Savathûn recalls a moment when she looked to the sky.

“Look,” says their father, the king. “The storm lifts.”

He has brought them into the orrery, its brass and platinum moons spinning around Fundament on many interlocking axes. Up the stairs to the swell of the dome where the telescopes, lenses, and listening instruments rest. They are old, older than seven generations of the Osmium Court, salvaged from another continent that had drifted close in the first year of the king’s reign.

Xi Ro, eager as always, runs to the winch, helping him open the dome’s eye for them all to look through. She does this even though the telescopes bore her, because moments when the king remembers his surviving children are rare. Rarer still for him to allow them close to his most prized treasures.

The dead worm has its own place here, set on a pedestal from where it seems to be watching.

Sathona is not bored, but neither is she sated (not like Aurash, who is already pressing forward to count how many moons can be seen). The Court is full of whispers these days, and Sathona does her best to hear most of them. Whispers of war with the Helium Drinkers, of the king’s negligence, of untrustworthy waters and worsening weather. Direr still are her dreams of brave, foolish Xi Ro crushed under rubble, Aurash swept away by a burning wave. What may come looms ahead, dark and not quite unknown, and the stars and moons are much too distant to matter when weighed against it. Whatever use to her is something that cannot be touched or swayed?

The orrery frustrates her as every discovery of her limits does. Beneath the mystery of it – just how old is it? Who thought to build it, and why? – lies the same taste of bitter air, a reminder that she is small and frail and meant to live a life she can barely count on both hands.

But when Aurash waves at her to take her turn, she still closes two eyes and peers up into dissipating clouds and an uncaring, glittering sky. Useless as these are to her, they are pretty enough. For that, and because they are all still together, remembered and alive, Sathona thinks to cherish this moment.

Savathûn does not cherish it. She forgets nothing. Every moment of her past is as it should be, a single gleaming instant that she can pin between her claws. But still, something (the warm surprise of trust from an uncertain parent, pushing Aurash’s shoulder for more space, flickering awe at a new curiosity well out of her reach) is lost.

It is a moment of synchronicity that reminds her. They are pruning away yet another civilization, and through secret and subtle means Savathûn knocks their binary stars from their seat, spilling the accretion disk out to envelop the nearest planets and moons. The swell of satisfaction that accompanies this is unexpected, and so she stops to find the cause.

Look how far she has come from that moment. Her father’s efforts seem small and futile now, while she can pluck every star from the sky. There might be some few, paltry things still beyond her grasp, but they will not remain so. She has lived longer than young Sathona could have envisioned. Of her siblings she is the wisest, the most prepared, and by far the most clear-sighted. Is this not everything she has wanted?

But –

Xivu has swooped down to drain the lesser star, and Oryx infests the heart of the greater with his blights. He is singing some awful dirge he picked up several systems ago and not yet tired of, and Xivu joins him with far greater enthusiasm than skill, until the pressure of their combined voices forces even their fleets to scatter from them. They don’t care, drunk and giddy on triumph and certainty.

Savathûn is quite sure she does not envy them their stupid, simple joy. This is not the first battle, nor even the thousandth, where she has watched them make fools of themselves amidst their slaughter.

But. She is not sated, and it gnaws at her more sharply than her worm ever has. Nothing that she would strain to reach for is here.

The lesser star gutters down to a dully flickering core, and the greater has been rendered a cyst through which the Deep can be heard. Savathûn finds this a tedious, predictable ending and turns away. Behind her, her siblings continue to laugh and kill and sing (terribly still).

If there is nothing here that she would reach for, then it is past time she look elsewhere. She remembers that glimpse of the sky once more.

Among those stars and shadows was one lying moon.