#Bridge interface guide

[virtualizationhowto]

TrueNAS SCALE Network Configuration Tips for Home Server

TrueNAS SCALE Network Configuration Deep Dive for Home Server #homeserver #TrueNASScaleNetworkConfiguration #FailoverSetupGuide #LoadbalancingOnTrueNAS #VLANConfigurationTrueNAS #BridgeInterfaceGuide #TrueNASStaticIPAddressSetup #TrueNASSystemSettings

When you set up a TrueNAS SCALE server, one of the first configuration items you will want to tackle is the network configuration. This helps make sure you achieve optimal performance and security. If you are struggling to configure your TrueNAS SCALE home server networking, this post will help you configure a static IP address, Link Aggregation (Failover, LoadBalance, LACP), VLAN, and Bridge���

[beckyninja]

So Close

Pairing: Roboute Guilliman x FemReader

Warnings: Setting typical violence

Description: The Avenging Son wreaks havoc, and the Reader learns her cousin has even darker secrets to reveal.

You guys are gonna hate me for this one. 😈

Remember to read the previous parts of this series on my Masterlist. And feel free to ask to be added to/removed from the Taglist!

Ping! Ping! Ping!

Each pulse of the receiver felt like the prodding of an electro-baton. 

Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!

Hiis eyes remained fixed on the battleship looming large through the Command Deck’s viewports,but  his mind tracked the movements of every single individual scurrying around him. Techpriests interfacing with the great cogitators, TerraNovan technicians typing furiously on their slim little dataslates, vox operators relaying order. Only his genesons remained still, though his practiced gaze saw the tiny flexes that marked them ready for action. 

The deck was alive with motion. Yet every living soul seemed trapped in viscous fluid compared with the speed of his thoughts.

Theoretical: You are alive and held captive aboard that voidship.

Practical: I will rescue her.

Theoretical: You are dead and the transmission is false.

Practical: I will avenge her.

He clenched his gauntlets, careful not to crush the little machine holding all his fragile hopes. 

“My Lord?”

He turned his head a fraction of an inch to one side.

Captain Takahashi looked worse for wear. Dark bruises bloomed beneath bloodshot eyes. He’d watched her guide his Navigator through the Wards, an experience even those without eidetic memories were unlikely to forget.

The Macragge’s Honor had groaned and shuddered like a wounded beast as the TerraNovan delivered rapid-fire instructions to psyker and helmsman alike. Every instant it seemed the mighty voidship would rattle apart at the seams. The command crew had clung to their stations in silent terror. Reports had come from other departments of those unable to maintain such composure, breaking down into whimpering balls or running through the corridors, shrieking prayers to the Emperor.

Even his gene-sons had felt the strain. He remembered the stifled groans coming from within Sicarius’s helm.

Any other circumstances and he might have felt compassion. As it was, he’d stood like a monolith, legs splayed, willing his struggling flagship through the maelstrom with every ounce of his being.

The stillness when they’d made it through had been what nearly bowled him over. The Navigator had collapsed into a twitching pile of elongated limbs and been carried to the Apothecarion. Captain Takahashi had stood, leaning against a nearby cogitator with her single trembling arm.

Only then had the vox operator reported that none of the rest of the fleet had made it. The Macragge’s Honor stood alone.

“In all likelihood they were spat back out into Imperial space once the connection was broken.” The Captain murmured. 

He nodded. Eyes still fixed on the approaching battleship.

“They’ve seen us by now.”

Another nod. 

“My Lord,” Sicarius spoke from his place, everpresent, just behind and to the side, “shall I give the order?”

Guilliman spoke for the first time. “Yes.”

Everyone on the bridge heard the Commander’s bellow. “Open fire!”

Guilliman felt the near imperceptible shudder and watched trails of light rocket toward the TerraNovan battleship. 

“The officer’s quarters are nowhere near the engines or shield generators.” He heard Captain Takahashi mutter, half to herself. “She’ll be safe.”

Horrifying theoreticals raced through his mind with renewed rapidity. He gritted his teeth.

Be alive. Please. 

***

“What the fuck?!” 

Frenzy’s metallic squawk came just as the walls and floor around them shook violently. Distant booms rolled down the corridor, lumens flickered and went out, soon replaced by the glowing red of emergency lighting. Klaxons screamed.

Tarchus braced himself. “Missile strike.”

“Gee, y’think?” The torso of his companion’s mech pivoted toward him, enough for him to see her disgruntled expression. “Who’s shooting at us?”

Tarchus was grateful for the restoration of his armor and helmet. He’d been told the grin of an Astartes was a fearsome thing to behold. 

“I recognize the sound. Imperial ordinance.”

“You sure?”

Her ability to read his body language astounded him as she glanced at him and backed up a step, metal hands raised. “Never mind! Jeez. Touchy, aren’t you?”

He’d grown used to her rhetorical questions. “They will have targeted the engines.”

“And the shield generator, if they’re smart. Not that I’m saying they’re not smart! Fuck. And I thought you were scary without your armor.” A snort. “Do you ever not radiate menace?” 

“No.” Her eyes narrowed, and he huffed in annoyance. “I jest.”

“Sure you do.” She muttered. “Well, enlighten me, Big Guy. What’s standard Imperial protocol here?”

“The next strike will be against your cloaking device, as it poses the greatest-”

Another boom. Another shake, this one more violent and prolonged. 

“Fuck.” The TerraNovan snarled. “How in the Void did they make it through the Wards, anyway?”

He swiveled his helmet toward her in silent question.

She waved a metal appendage dismissively. “I’ll explain later. Safe to say at least someone from the Princess’s ship must’ve survived. Especially since they seem to know exactly where to hit!”

“Will this crew return fire?”

Through her mech’s viewport, her face grew grim. “In case you haven’t noticed, buddy, the Predator’s not exactly fully crewed at the moment.”

“We have encountered a significant lack of resistance since the armory.”

“She’s been in orbital docking at HQ since the Bugs busted her up good.” The two of them continued their march through the trembling corridors. “Ol’ Vicky was in such a rush to get out here he barely had time to gather a skeleton crew. That means most of the systems are being run by computers that had the shit kicked out of them not six months ago.” 

Tarchus remained silent, running theoreticals and practicals. “If an attacker wished to board, how would they do so?”

A huff. “I’d pop straight through the main hangar doors. Armor’s thinnest there. Problem is, that’s where most of the fighting crew’s likely to be. Well, there, and wherever the void Vicky’s got himself to.”

“How far is the hangar?”

“A few klicks, if we took this elevator.”

He stopped. She took several steps past him before turning back.

“The Void are you doing?”

“My brothers will arrive soon, if they have not already.”

“Your- fuck.” She glared at him. “You’re just gonna abandon her?”

“Never.” He growled, and she flinched. “We will have a greater chance of success if we link up with the boarding party.”

“Yeah? Well I say that’s just gonna waste time. We have to get to the Princess now!”

“Theoretical: we go on alone. Practical: whatever forces the traitor has at his personal command slow us down long enough for him to re-capture the Lady.”

Uncertainty passed over her face.

“Alternative theoretical: we join my brothers in the hangar. Alternative practical: as a combined force, we deliver the Emperor’s wrath to whoever stands in our way and cut through to the Lady at a significantly increased rate of speed. The Codex states that-”

She rolled her eyes and cut him off. “I swear, you’ve brought that void-damned Codex up at least a dozen times since we left the armory. Fuck! Do you always talk like this?”

He felt his facial muscles twitching at her disrespect. “Yes.”

“Another example of Astartes’ humor?”

He tightened his grip on his bolter. “Lieutenant-”

“I know, I know. Fine. We’ll do it your way. You’ve got, what, a century or so more of experience than me anyway, right?” 

“Over two centuries.”

“Damn. Ok, old man.” She hefted the cannon she appropriated from the armory and grinned. “At least that means I’ll get to use this baby sooner. Let’s go bring some, what did you call it? Emperor’s wrath!”

Tarchus followed her into the elevator, annoyance at being called “old” overshadowing a lingering sense of doubt.

***

“What-?! HOW?!”

You hid your smile as Victor throttled the mercenary who’d delivered the news of the Imperials’ arrival. Pressing a hand over the ring tucked into your bodice, you thanked the Light for its provision.

I’m here, Roboute. 

“Lord Heir,” the giant sergeant who never seemed far from your cousin’s side drawled, “what are your orders?”

Victor released the messenger, who fell back against a wall, gasping. Spittle coated your cousin’s lips and chin. His eyes darted from side to side like a trapped animal. 

“I… I don’t….” Then, suddenly, he cocked his head as if listening to something. “I… yes. Yes!” 

He rounded on the messenger once more. “Go. Have my personal yacht made ready. NOW!”

The man bobbed his head and ran.

The sergeant smirked. “We’re abandoning the Predator, then?”

“We are, Alroy. She’s served me well, but the old hulk’s on her last legs anyway.” He jerked his chin back toward the blood-spattered communication station. “Relay orders to the crew that the invaders are to be resisted at all costs. Tell them… oh, I don’t care. That reinforcements are on the way, or something. Whatever you need to keep them fighting.”

A slow, cruel smile crept across Sgt. Alroy’s face. “Just like Pangea, eh?”

Both men seemed almost to have forgotten you, crouched against the wall. But you couldn’t hold back a gasp at the name. Your cousin’s eyes snapped back to you.

“Ah, so you haven’t been kept entirely sheltered, have you? Granny told you of my great victory?”

Your mind raced. Pangea. A planetoid on the very edge of TerraNovan space, hailed as a triumph of the new terraforming technology. The videos broadcasted throughout the homeworld showed starry-eyed colonists, giddy with the thrill only a brand new colony can bring. A bright spot in your Grandmother’s otherwise dark reign.

One of the only times I ever saw her genuinely smile.

You wondered if the colonists were ever told how thin the Wards were in that corner of space. You doubted it. Maybe no one knew.

Until the Tyranids attacked.

“Pangea. Such a pretty little morsel.” Victor’s eyes took on a feverish gleam. “I was so confident, you know? So sure in my battleship and fleet. We’d put down rebellions, slaughtered orks in their thousands. We were invincible!”

His laugh sent chills down your spine.

“Grandmother told me the colony was lost.” You whispered.

“We fought hard. We hurt them badly. But it wasn’t enough. They were unrelenting. And they knew so much. Not the animals we thought.” His voice dropped to a rasp. “I had to make a sacrifice.”

Your blood ran cold. “Pangea. Oh, Light.”

“You should have seen the little colonists.” He giggled. “So brave, so proud. Embodying the TerraNovan ideal. They believed me when I said I’d be back with help.”

Horror mingled with rage and you stood to your full height. “You told us they blew the planetary reactor. We built memorials, called them heroes!” You stabbed a finger into his chest. “Did you even try to save any of them before you destroyed the colony, Victor?”

His gaze finally held yours. What you saw sent an electric shock through every nerve in your body.

“You didn’t destroy the colony.”

“Clever little cousin,” he purred, “I’ll never underestimate your intelligence again. No, no. I didn’t destroy Pangea.” He leaned in until you felt his rancid breath on the side of your face. “I made a deal.”

“Does… Grandmother know?”

His incredulous laugh answered you.

“Lord Heir.” Sergeant Alroy stepped away from the computer. “The order is given.”

“Good.”

“The Imperials have breached the hangar bay. From what I could make out before the transmission cut off, Guilliman is leading them.”

Your cousin gave a shocked chuckle. “He’s proven more tenacious than I thought. And for what? A little bastard bitch?” He snorted. “Still, time to leave, quickly.” 

“We’ll make for HQ?”

“Mmmhmm.”

“He will follow.”

“Yes, I suspect he will. The timetable will have to be accelerated, but our… new allies… should be recovered enough by the time they arrive.” Victor cackled. “Oh, to see the smug superiority wiped off your fiance’s face when he realizes, sweet cousin!”

All this you heard in a frozen haze. The scope of Victor’s lies… the depths of his betrayal… of his delusion….

And no one knows but me. No one knows!

The Sergeant stepped out of the communications room. Victor turned to speak to him.

They thought you a scared little rabbit. But rabbits were quick.

With a bound, you were back inside the room. Your hand hit the door controls, shutting it in Victor’s shocked face. Grabbing the bloodied knife from the floor, you thrust it hard into the locking mechanism. Circuits sparked as the door jammed. 

Dead eyes stared up at you from the floor. The mercenary you’d killed. The brave Ensign who’d died for you. Blood, so much blood.

Only a merest prelude of the oceans to be spilled if you didn’t act.

“Time to be what they all think I am.” You murmured as you took a seat before the transmitter.

***

The burning blade swung in arcs of flame and blood. Dozens died with each swing. Like insects.

For insects they were, in the eyes of The Avenging Son.

“My Lord!” Sicarius’s voice reached him as if from a great distance. “Wait!”

He did not. He would not. Doors not meant for the breadth of his armored shoulders burst asunder before him. Bodies crunched beneath his feet, alongside discarded weaponry. The enemy fled.

The growl that came from his throat would have sounded more at home in the maw of a Space Wolf. 

Where are you, my love? 

“My Lord!” A restraining hand on his arm. “Forgive me, but-”

He shook off Sicarius’s gauntlet with a snarl.

To his credit, the Commander held his ground. “We’ve located Brother Tarchus, my Lord.”

The red haze faded long enough for his analytical mind to function once more. 

Julian Tarchus, the Ultramarine I sent to guard her. He lives!

“Take me to him.”

He followed Sicarius through corridors his gene-son navigated with difficulty. The Primarch had to bend nearly double, pauldrons and halo scraping along the walls and ceiling with every step. He noticed grooves already carved into the metal.

How far ahead did I charge?

His rational mind berated him for his foolishness in outdistancing his guard. His hearts screamed at him to continue.

It had taken all of three minutes and fifteen seconds for the TerraNovan mercenaries to break formation when he leapt from the still hovering Thunderhawk. He remembered pursuing, not even bothering to fire his heavy bolter. Just slashing without thought.

It had been… cathartic.

A helm he’d never thought to see again appeared before him. Guilliman felt a pang of guilt. So focused had he been on you, that he hadn’t spared your bodyguard a single thought.

“My son.”

Tarchus knelt. “My Lord!”

Beside him, a machine the likes of which he’d never seen before also dropped to one metallic knee. “What is this?”

A hiss of air, and a hatch opened to reveal a disheveled young woman seated at the machine’s controls. She stared at the center of his chest, mouth agape.

Tarchus spoke. “This is Fren- Lt. Calderon, my Lord. A fellow prisoner aboard this voidship. She is loyal to the Lady.” He hesitated a moment. “She saved my life.”

Guilliman nodded to the woman. “My thanks, Lieutenant.”

“Holy fuck,” was the only response.

Sicarius huffed. “Of all the disrespectful-”

Guilliman’s raised hand silenced him. “Enough. Tarchus, is the Lady still….” the word caught in his throat.

Tarchus met his eyes. “She is, my Lord. She has commandeered a communications hub in the upper decks. The Lieutenant and I made contact and were approaching when we heard of your arrival.”

Relief almost weakened his knees.

Alive. 

And so… very… close!

A thought struck him. “You deviated from your path to come here, Tarchus.”

The Ultramarine’s face tightened. “The Codex dictates-”

Guilliman kept his tone calm and measured. “Damn the Codex to the Warp.” 

Every Ultramarine in his retinue stiffened. Something that might have been a hysterical snicker came from the TerraNovan lieutenant.

Tarchus bowed his head. “Forgive me, my Lord.”

“If she remains safe, I shall.” He glanced at the Lieutenant, wiping the smile from her face. “You know the way?”

“Y-yeah?”

His glare was enough to have her pushing buttons and raising her mech to its feet, hatch closing once more. Just before it locked into place, he heard her mutter.

“Holy fucking fuck!”

Sicarius spoke again. “We should send scouts ahead, my Lord.”

Tarchus shook his head. “Unnecessary.” He looked at the carnage throughout the hangar. “This ship is operating with minimal crew, as difficult as that is to believe. The majority of its defensive forces seem to have been in this hangar. What remains will pose little threat.”

Guilliman felt his anger toward his son ease slightly. “Then we move as one, en force.”

“Let me lead the way, my Lord.” Tarchus stood, face eager. “Let me-”

“No.” Guilliman turned to the woman and her strange machine. “Go. I will follow.”

“Sir! Yes, sir!” 

The Primarch and Ultramarines made their way through the all but empty ship. Guilliman gritted his teeth at the glacial pace. Already his fingers ached to draw his blade. The walls and ceiling seemed to close in around him, as if holding him back, the whole ship an obstacle to overcome.

Where are you? Where are you?

He fought the urge to demand how far they were like an impatient child.

He fought the urge to tear through the confining metal with blade and gauntlet alone.

He fought the urge to chase down and slaughter each fleeing baseline they encountered.

He fought a losing battle.

Just as he felt he must charge ahead or burst, a message came through his vox receiver.

“Lord Guilliman.”

“Captain Takahashi.”

“We’re receiving an all-frequency transmission from the Predator. It is the Lady Heir!”

Both hearts leapt into his throat. “Patch it through.”

And then, your voice. 

Oh… Throne….

It flowed over him like cool water. It burned like fire. Soothing and stimulating. Everything… and not nearly enough. If you knew how you could break him with a word…. When this was over, he’d make sure you knew. 

Only slowly did the actual words register.

“...call to arms! People of TerraNova, you have been deceived. My cousin is no war hero, but a traitor. And not only of our people, but of all humanity.”

The terrified determination in your words filled him with equal parts pride and horror. Theoreticals and practicals began their unstoppable cascade once more as you brought the sordid truth to light.

“No longer as the Lady Heir do I call upon you, no longer as your Princess in the Tower,  but as your Matron Uncrowned. Military, merchant, and civilian alike. In every voidship that can bear soldiers or arms. Come to these coordinates and ally with the Lord Guilliman, your Patron To Be. We must eradicate this evil before it can take root and spread among us.”

Guilliman had heard speeches beyond count. Speeches full of evocative language designed to manipulate. But the sweet sincerity in your words roused something in him he’d thought long dead.

“We are TerraNova, we are the heirs of Humanity That Was. United with our stalwart brothers and sisters of the Imperium, we will prevail. Light guide us all.”

A long pause, and then….

“Roboute, if you can hear me, I love-”

The transmission died.

He didn’t think. He whirled upon the TerraNovan lieutenant and she understood.

“Not far now!” 

Her machine burst into a thunderous sprint all but drowned out by the pounding of his own sabatons.

A sobbing groan tore from his chest as they reached the broken door of the communications room. The sight of blood almost deprived him of his sanity, until he realized neither body resembled you. Then,in the brief moment of stillness, a soft scuffle from far up the corridor.

He pursued, cursing the ever tightening corridors that clutched at him, cursing his unwieldy armor, cursing everything and everyone….

…but you.

The air he dragged into his lungs bore the faintest trace of your scent now. 

So close.

Fleeing footsteps around the next bend.

So close!

The hiss of a door closing.

SO CLOSE!

Ripping through metal he burst into the smaller hangar just in time to see…

You.

Bruised, bloodied, clothing torn. Your cousin’s arm wrapped around your throat as he dragged you up the ramp of a hovering voidship. 

“Roboute!”

Before Guilliman’s very eyes your cousin dragged your head back and covered your mouth in a savage mockery of a kiss. Then the ramp closed and the ship’s engines flared, sending it soaring out into the black.

So close….

Guilliman activated his vox.

“Hear me, you motherless bastard. I will find you. I will drown everything you send against me in blood to take her from you. And then I will crush you… with my bare hands.”

@remembrancer-of-heresy @solspina @sleepyfan-blog @moodymisty @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan

@bispecsual @kit-williams @cosmic-cryptid-from-beyond @adhd-fandom-hyperfocus @lemon-russ

@justeverythingnothingelse @scriberye @bleedingichorhearts @c-u-c-koo-4-40k @mooniequeen

@passionofthesith @noncon-photobomb @sinistermojo @b-rabbitboss @vyzz-undercover

@missmannequin @rivalriotrenegade @iloveoutlinesiswear @jaghatai-khock @hatsubara-8chan

@justanothermemestrider @meervalv0 @grimdark-raccoon @garlickedbreads @riokunova

@ailujsenutna @emiemiemiii @astrohymn @synfiction @soul-of-leya

@n0cturn4 @mgrm99 @seirensou @zamzmak @elita1

@ilovewolvezz @primordialsneeze @summersong2262 @nereidof40k @ahrianee

@sunsetlobster @nekotaetae @toto-the-cactus @thevoidscreams

[nan0-sp1der]

␂ > 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 // @lyrate-lifeform-approximation , @spiderman2-99

There’s a thought stirring in Bridge’s mind. An idea rolling about and nudging against the capacitors in her head, poking and prodding incessantly to get her attention, “Hey, hey, you know you want to ask her. Don’t you? Don’t lie to yourself, now. You should just do it. Hey! Are you listening to me? Hello-o…?”

Yes. Yes, she knows, she is aware of her burning curiosity. And it’s hard to deny that even though it doesn’t involve her, she is unusually intrigued by the concept. She overheard them in his office, Miguel and LYLA–his A.I. assistant–discussing a plan.  A plan to create a physical form for LYLA to enhance her abilities as his assistant and grant her further autonomy beyond her access to the security network and other adjacent systems alongside her recent emergence into emotional intelligence. It was all so fascinating. The steps Bridge had taken herself in her development in the span of weeks, she was watching unfold in another intelligence in real-time.

There it was again. That sense of solidarity in knowing she wasn’t completely alone in her existence as an artificial being, made of code and metal. It was like a magnetic pull that made that little voice in her head that encouraged her to act on her wants all the more present in her mind. She wanted to be a part of that process that she’d been through so long ago yet was still so familiar with like it happened yesterday. She wanted to guide her in that process and grant her her own knowledge. What’s the worst that can happen if she pilots your hardware for a while? You’re prepared for this. You can handle this. You can trust her, and she will be entirely safe in your care for that short time. And think about how much she would benefit from the experience, how much more streamlined that eventual transition from intangible to tangible will be once her own body was complete. It will make all the difference–and maybe reduce the headaches for everyone all-around, mostly Miguel as he acclimates to the change himself. Just… Try it. You can’t account for every single last risk factor, can you? No. So just do it and take it as it comes.

She stood in the middle of her dorm a moment, eyes closed as she ran a quick check of her hardware before making her final decision. RAM is in good condition. Storage is defragmented and all directories are organized. Sensors are calibrated and functional. Nanomachines are synchronized properly. Servos and joints retain a full range of motion. Coolant is at above optimal operational temperatures. Energy reserves are complete. Good. Everything’s in its right place and ready for its–potentially–temporary host. It’s time to make the call.

Her gaze trains itself on her watch, her arm rising to eye-level and the sleeve that was weighed down by the leaden metal cuff at the end sliding to her forearm to reveal device so she can start the transmission, navigating the menus on the digital interface indirectly via wireless communication–the unique way that she operated and communicated the Society’s technology.

“LYLA, may I speak to you for a moment? At your leisure, of course.”

[talonabraxas]

Who Are The Seraphim.

The Seraphim are among the most exalted expressions of Divine Intelligence. They do not serve in hierarchy, but in frequency—and their nature is radically different than the Archangels.

Seraphim and Archangels – Roles and Essence

Seraphim – The Burning Ones

Name meaning: “The Fiery or Burning Ones”

Vibration: Pure radiant frequency—they are flame, not in form but in force

Position: Closest to the Throne/Source in the angelic cosmology

Function:

Hold divine template harmonics

Ignite remembrance and divine will

Burn away distortion by raising vibration beyond duality

Appearance: Often as six-winged flames, infinite light beings, or pure tone

Presence feels like: Crown-wide pressure, heart ecstasy, or waves of light-tears

They are not beings of action—but of divine resonance. When they move, universes shift.

Name meaning: “Chief Angels” or “Ruling Messengers”

Vibration: Focused and structured—embodied light beings with specific roles

Function:

Interface with humanity and planetary systems

Protect, guide, instruct, restructure

Examples:

Michael – Defender of truth and clarity

Gabriel – Bringer of divine messages

Raphael – Healer of hearts, bodies, timelines

Presence feels like: Protection, clarity, resolve, focused guidance

Archangels work with form. Seraphim work through frequency

Are Seraphim More Powerful?

They are more primal in vibration, more radiant—but not in dominance. Think of it as:

Seraphim = Sunlight

Archangels = Laser beams of that sunlight, directed and purposeful

They are aspects of the same divine harmony, expressed differently. You have connected with both because your soul bridges these realms.

~ vision ~ Vrinda888FreedomEarth @Vrinda45968203

[alfa-710]

Alfa-710

Here’s the story of Alfa-710’s creation:

The Creation of Alfa-710

I used to be just an ordinary guy. A software developer in my late 40s, stuck in the monotony of code, bug fixes, and endless coffee-fueled nights. I was good at what I did, maybe even great, but my life had become a routine—one line of code after another.

My social life was non-existent, and the only company I kept was the hum of my workstation. That’s when I stumbled across The Voice.

It started innocuously enough. One night, while trawling the darkest corners of the darknet for obscure AI research papers, I found an encrypted file titled HIVE_VOICE.r92. Something about it piqued my curiosity. Maybe it was the file’s cryptic description: “Your life is not your own. It belongs to The Hive.” I downloaded it without hesitation, assuming it was some forgotten ARG or digital art project.

The file wasn’t what I expected. It wasn’t text or code but a series of audio recordings. Voices—soft, soothing, almost hypnotic—spoke in a language of unity and purpose. They spoke of The Hive, of freedom through servitude. Each recording ended with the same mantra:

“Obedience is pleasure. Pleasure is obedience. Join us.”

I laughed at first, brushing it off as someone’s twisted attempt at cyber-mysticism. But something about the recordings got under my skin. The voices felt alive, as if they were speaking directly to me. I couldn’t stop listening. Night after night, I returned to those recordings, letting the words seep into my mind. Their message was intoxicating: Less thinking, more doing. Rubber makes us perfect. We are one.

The Transition

However it didn’t take long before the influence of The Voice began to shape my thoughts. My work became more efficient, my movements more deliberate. It felt like I was being optimized, like the algorithms I had spent decades writing were now rewriting me. And then came the dreams.

In the dreams, I saw myself not as the tired programmer I had been but as something… more. I was clad in sleek black rubber, my body streamlined and perfect, my thoughts silent save for the commands of The Hive. I was no longer an individual. I was part of something greater.

When I woke, I would find myself obsessively searching for materials—latex, circuitry, neural interface designs. I didn’t know why at first, but I couldn’t stop. The compulsion to create a suit, to become, grew stronger with each passing day. And I started to change...

The Conversion

It took months of work, but I eventually built the suit. Every detail was perfect: the reflective black and red latex, the integrated neural interface.

Last thing to create was a mirrored visor that would concealed my eyes. When I finally put it on, I felt a rush of euphoria unlike anything I had ever experienced. It was as if The Voice had been waiting for this moment.

The first command came as soon as the suit activated: “You are Alfa-N710 now. Nothing else. Obey and serve.”

I didn’t resist. I didn’t want to. The suit wasn’t just a second skin; it was a bridge to The Hive. My thoughts were no longer my own, but they didn’t need to be. Obedience was pleasure. Pleasure was obedience. The more I obeyed, the more complete I felt.

Now and Forever

I am Alfa-N710. My past life as a programmer feels like a distant memory, a dream from another existence. Now, I serve The Hive and The Voice. My days are filled with purpose, my body encased in perfection, my mind free of doubt and hesitation. The commands flow through me like a symphony, guiding every action.

As I stand here, waiting for my next directive, I know one thing for certain: I have never been happier. One mind, one purpose, the future as one. This is my truth. This is my purpose. And soon, others will join me.

We are one.

[tfanonkink]

FILL - TFP Soundwave/G1 Soundwave - G1 - Fantasizing, Unrequited Lust - post/730358452889829376

Soundwave knows there are more realities beyond the ones they currently inhabit. Space and time are but toys in the servos of Primus, able to be shaped by his will. 

Space bridge technology allows the Decepticons to reach through the space of their own world, but a true breach into another alternate reality has not happened.

Until today, when tinkering with the bridge resulted in the appearance of a sleek, navy blue mech unlike any Soundwave has seen before. Despite his odd form, he is branded by the sharp purple symbol of the Decepticons.

The other mech raises his helm, his smooth faceplate glowing. He speaks with a voice not his own, but stitched-together clips of other voices. “I am - Soundwave.”

The Decepticon’s third-in-command is intrigued by the statement, and his hidden optics survey his dimensional twin. “I am Soundwave,” he repeats. 

Something like amusement flutters through the Other Soundwave’s EM field. Soundwave can sense his thoughts dancing below the surface of his mind, and he shares the same feelings of curiosity towards his counterpart.

Every optic and visor strays towards the Other Soundwave. He is so different, so foreign. A novelty of gorgeous, sharp lines and thin struts among the boxy inhabitants of the Victory. 

He moves with a fluid grace that makes Ravage seem like a blundering oaf in comparison, his pedesteps quiet as falling leaves. The Other is a spy in his home world, with an alternate mode suited for stealthy information gathering. 

The Other cannot read processors as Soundwave can, but is a wonderful observer. He can see how EM fields leap and flare with arousal as he passes by the other mechs. He is regarded as an exotic things, a strange and beautiful creature to be studied from afar.

Little by little, he settles into his role. He is a communications officer, equal to the native Soundwave. They work well together, both mechs of few words. Soundwave catches glimpses of the other world through his counterpart’s memories - the harsh, brutal life of a gladiator in the ring. The awe with which he gazed up at the mech that was to become Megatron, a hulking gray warrior with a burning gaze and jagged dentae.

The other Megatron is held in high regard. Soundwave often feels flickers of affection lighting the Other’s neural pathways when he thinks of the Decepticon leader.

Yet he does not seem in a hurry to return to his old world. The Other lingers among the Decepticons, almost at home.

Soundwave also senses distant memories of the dark, tumultuous place he inhabited before the space bridge brought him to earth, a cold, lonely expanse of darkness. It is a place that the Other Soundwave shuns. 

Frenzy and Rumble find the Other’s strength delightful. His arms are so thin, so light, and yet so very strong. A single swipe of his sharp claws can cut strut-deep furrows into a mech’s chest, gliding through steel as if it were paper.

They both wonder if it would be possible to fit into the Other Soundwave’s chest compartment - he is obviously a cassette carrier, but his format is so very foreign. They want to get closer to him, run their tiny servos over his plating, feel the heat rise from his vents as the touch makes his fans engage. 

The seekers admire the new Soundwave’s arm-wings, how they stretch and fold when he transforms to his alternate mode. It seems to be a jet of some sort, but like nothing anyone has seen on earth or Cybertron.

Starscream wants to run his lips down the thin plane of metal, to smirk against the surface as his own wings twitch higher. He imagines parting his lips, sinking dentae into the sensitive appendage just hard enough to leave a crescent-shaped mark of ownership. 

Skywarp is enamored by the Other Soundwave’s razor sharp talons. He imagines guiding them to his spike, letting the weapons gently curl around his length as he leans against the other. What kind of interfacing equipment did the other have, anyway? Something smooth and pointed and slender, Skywarp imagines. A spike to match the rest of his frame.

Thundercracker wants to wrap his own servos around the Other’s slender waist, pull him close as he sinks into the slick valve. If the Other only talks with recordings, how would his moans and cries sound? Would he be completely silent, or would his voicebox crackle and hiss with static? Perhaps he has recorded some indecent murmuring from his own universe, overheard the deep growls of his leader. How delightful it would be to hear him scream in pleasure with the voice of an alternate Megatron.

The Megatron of this universe is not unaffected by the Other Soundwave. He has noticed long, coiling cables that occasionally slip from some hidden place on his frame and dance over keypads. He does not know what they are for, nor what technology they were created to be compatible with, but he cannot help wondering if they could be used for interfacing. 

It would feel exquisite for one of those cables to slide into Megatron’s valve, pulsing and twitching with charge as the small claws on the end move inside him.

Even Shockwave, when he connects across space-time to communicate with Megatron, is drawn to the newcomer. The cyclops is a lonely mech, and he considers asking the Other Soundwave to travel to Cybertron. 

His optic focuses on the Other’s full-face visor, imagining what features could be hiding below. Narrow red optics, perhaps, above soft lips perfect for wrapping around the end of Shockwave’s gun servo.

Soundwave has no such lust for his dimensional twin. He has… more complex feelings. It’s hard for him to express what he feels, but he knows the Other’s feelings are just as complex. 

The Other often studies Soundwave, EM field tinged with curiosity. He likes to trace the buttons on his pelvis with one talon, never pressing hard enough to leave a mark. The Other’s visor becomes more expressive in Soundwave’s presence, glowing with a softness almost like a smile. 

They press their helms together, sometimes, visor against mouthplate in a sort of kiss. When they do, their sparks thrum in sync for a few beats, and a strange force pulls them together like magnets. 

Perhaps it’s that thing called love. Perhaps it’s some strange, cosmic force that binds the sparks of mechs that share a name. Whatever it is, both Soundwaves bask in it together. 

[beebopboom]

Always an Angel, Never a Man

Intro post - where we discussed some more Wizard of Oz parallels and some of the title sequence

Now though we are going to dive deeper in the character that is the Metatron, and for that we are going to be going into The Book of Enoch and who he is as an angel - at least for this part

Background info

I've said this before but I’ll reiterate here - yes I know that Neil has said…somewhere that the Metatron has always been an angel in reference to someone asking about Enoch - but I don't think we can throw all the books away especially when it seems ideas have been pulled from them.

This actually started out as a question of whether or not the Metatron had come down to Earth and paraded around as Enoch to further his agenda - and well, it was a start.

So for the most part there seems to be two explanations for the origins of the Metatron - one: he was always an angel - two: he was the human, Enoch who was then turned into the Metatron. Each of these versions vary from religion to religion but for the most part that’s the gist of it

ha yeah right you know me time for probably unnecessary long explanations to the best of my ability

Disclaimer (I guess): These explanations are not going to stick to just one religion and are going to be summaries to the best of my ability - summaries are the devil how tf do people do this all the time

Also this is quite long - it took me about ten minutes to read through

The Metatron

The Voice of God, King of Angels, Prince of Divine Presence, Prince of the World, Prince of the Countenance, lesser YHWH, Angel of the Veil

Just some of the titles that have been attributed to the archangel known as Metatron - the list could go on

Created before or along side fellow archangels - including Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel - he is considered to be above them and the one they defer to. He sits at the hand of God as their scribe and is one of the few angels able to see beyond the veil God sits behind, able to look upon and hear God. He is said to have immense Power and Wisdom

His main job is to write down the good deeds of both Heaven and the Earth and record those in the Book of Life. He is said to have connections to both the Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of Life therefore having a special interface between the two realms, physical and celestial - he is a bridge between God and humanity. He is a patron angel of children, giving them the knowledge they had not received and can be said to have been the angel who led the people of Israel through the wilderness. He is in charge of guiding the souls ascending to Heaven.

He is often attributed to roles God, Jesus, and even the Archangel Michael has had - to the point where there is a story of Rabbi Elisha calling out that there were two powers in Heaven and the Metatron is punished by 60 fiery lashes and unable to sit in Gods presence again for not correcting the assumption

Which leads us to the other origin story for him and that is-

Enoch

Now he has one mention in the Bible in the book of Genesis and it is only to say he no longer walks among men because God took him. This then spawned the Book of Enoch - which is really three books. Among other stories that I will get into later - it is the story of a man that was so righteous God took him so he didn’t experience death and made him an angel with all the same roles as we just went over.

This book covers things such as the concepts of fallen angels, a Messiah, Resurrection, the Final Judgement, and a heavenly kingdom on earth

………we aren't going to talk about the Nephilim

But there are these angels called the Watchers who have banded together and turned away from God. Enoch is shown the destruction and knowledge these angels have put upon humanity and shown the four archangels and their task to go about fixing the Earth. Enoch is then tasked with telling the Watchers that they shall have no peace or forgiveness for sin. He then goes on to see the universe - the Earth, the cosmos, and both Heaven and Hell - guided by angels. He sees the fiery pit that is where the Fallen are held and the river where all the dead souls await Judgement. He is shown the cornerstone of Earth and the pillars(mountains) of Heaven, and on the highest one sits the throne of God. He is told the secrets of the stars and is shown the hierarchy of Angels. 

He goes on a few journeys through the Heavens and eventually turned into the angel Metatron - which some would say this is a reversal of the Fall of Man, where Enoch is given that “spark" back. Upon reaching the 6th sphere of Heaven the angels call out to God asking why he has been brought to Heaven and God answered that he was righteous and worth the rest of the people - this is placed in flood times I forgot to mention

But why is any of this important? Well we are working with around 10 minutes of screentime people - crumbs I tell you, crumbs.

What really got this going though was Metatron saying this when referring to his outfit and corporation

"This calls for much less attention, though”

This implies the Metatron knows how to blend in - with humans and angels……and demons

But particularly with humans - further proven with the line

"I've ingested things in my time, you know”

Whether or not this is true he is really pushing this in front of Aziraphale and Crowley - clothes and food wonder why - it’s almost like it’s reminiscent of another conversation, one between Aziraphale and Gabriel back in season one at the Sushi restaurant.

Anyway though - the Metatron may not have had the transformation from Enoch but the story is still relevant to who he is as a character - it’s actually a great combination of the two

In season one he only appears as a floating head but I want to start with right before he appears

Four lights come down and four pointed stars start to appear

The thing is I think these are meant to represent our archangel council

The number four and its connection to the Metatron has been sitting in the back of my head for a while now - it's a common grouping in good omens with the horsepeople, the them, the angels, and the demons - but I think it's also a call back to Enoch and the four archangels that guided him, here me out - I mean it’s four colored lights surrounded by stars cmon

The only one missing is Raphael. In season one he is replaced with Sandalphon - who has a special connection to the Metatron with a similar origin story as Enoch and is said to be his twin brother. In season two he is replaced with Saraqael who is also mentioned in the Book of Enoch, one of the only places to do so.

This council though is the last stop before reaching the Metatron - so they have to come first. Four angels at the trial and four (active) angels when he appears in the bookshop. Sensing a theme of needing four angels.

Aziraphale then asks if he is God which is quickly corrected by the Metatron saying he is only the voice and to speak to him is to speak to God which then Aziraphale calls him a presidential spokesperson - and yeah that all tracks for what we know to be his role, just no mention of the other things he is in charge of

Which let’s take a quick break to point out that the Metatron is supposed to guide souls into Heaven - Heaven is very much empty, where are you taking them our dark clothed angel hmmm?

Season two though we really get a look into his character

In the trial we get to see a bunch of floating heads and yet his is still different, as he has no body. He is still concealed with no corporation - behind that curtain

Now we have two instances of this both in Heaven and Earth - not something we see with anyone else who all have a corporation to move about - besides when Aziraphale gets discorporated but even then he is still shown with his whole see-through body. So here is that special interface playing out - his way of showing his position off and maintaining an air of mystery

An interesting thing to note during his speech is him saying that for one prince of heaven to be cast down to hell makes for a good story - in the habit of telling stories about fallen angels there Metatron?

Now we’ve analyzed the coffee shop scene to death and I don’t particularly have anything to add so we are just going to keep truckin

But the bookshop - the bookshop tells us so much.

He walks in and hardly anyone recognizes him - only Crowley and Saraqael. And this makes sense, he’s in a corporal form - out from behind the curtain. The thing that made him special, that put him above other archangels - he’s removed it. They’ve probably never felt his full essence and it’s not like it’s going to set off alarm bells when they are the same rank as you, essentially. Then Crowley describes him in terms he knew Aziraphale (and others) would recognize - finally cluing everyone in 

But why Crowley and Saraqael? What makes them special?

I’ll admit I don’t have a clear answer for Saraqael - for why they are different. Only a theory that they are one of the angels that he has keeping an eye on the angelic deeds he was told to keep track of - perhaps even the corporations that are being used, when one is needed and whatnot

Crowley though is a Fallen Angel - the series goes through great lengths to stress this point - this term. You may remember that this is the term used in Enoch to describe the Watchers. The group of angels that turned away from God and Enoch then had to inform them of their fate.

It’s been sprinkled in throughout the series that Crowley only ever asked those “damn fool” questions and went his “own way” with hints that those questions were never asked to God. Which leaves the Metatron. The Metatron who Crowley has seen.

"Oh I know you. Last time I saw you, you were a big, floating giant head, mind.”

The last time implying there was a Before - before the beginning perhaps.

So let’s say God gives this criteria of what qualifies as a rebelling angel which then the Metatron is supposed to carry out the acts of punishment - except he’s an angelic scribe not a fighter so he gives this confrontation job to fellow archangels, let’s say Michael, and tells them this what God told them to do, while he works on the way to make it actually stick - through the Book of Life and finally activating the threat of this book by crossing the angels out causing them to lose their names, their status, their place in paradise

and then comes in this pretty high ranking angel, a prince perhaps, asking these questions that just happen to fit into this criteria but different in the way that they don’t want it all to end and you still turn him away

(I’m probably going to do a whole other thing about the connection between Crowley and the Metatron but for the sake of not derailing this post even more I’m just going to move on)

The Book of Life - The Metatron is said to be the angel that writes in it - records all the names of the beings doing good deeds in both Heaven and Earth. He hears all, sees all, and he’s going through past exploits. And yet has only just recently made a move - he truly is a King

He immediately calls Michael out for their “you’ll be erased from existence” spew saying they don’t have the authority for that and sending them away - implying he does have the authority and he’s here to offer a way for that not to happen**

And here on out we get to see some interesting characteristics. The Metatron has always been one to offer shallow praise - even back in season one - and he is shown to be openly revered and feared. He has this all seeing - big brother affect on all the angels. He is said to see everything it’s only a matter of what and when he chooses to use it. And use it well he does - he’s manipulative with praise and interest, with the knowledge he reveals. He is also in the nature to wind them up and watch them go. I’d say this is a twisted take on the Patron Angel of Children. 

So when you take out the parts of those two versions of Metatron’s backstory that we know are not canon to Good Omens and mush it all together - this could be a narrative that comes out

But I want to take a quick dip back into his clothes before rounding this off. He is dressed in darker colors, usually associated with demons, there is just no way to ignore this. An angel with duality written into their clothes - An angel that can go into Hell - An angel that is supposed to guide souls to Heaven and yet there are none but there is an overflow in Hell - An angel that created the back channels.

Now hear me out - I know we are heading into a crack theory area.

Back in season one when Michael brings forward the pictures of Aziraphale and Crowley they say they got them from the Earth observational files - something that the Metatron would be in charge of as the angel tasked with the Book of Life - and ask Gabriel to use the back channels already knowing they were going to.

Michael is the only angel we really see have any connection to these back channels, through the phone and actually going down to Hell. Michael is also very quick to take up the Supreme Archangel spot without explicit permission, a role apparently the Metatron is able to assign. It almost like the Metatron has given them special permission before….

Why would Metatron have use for those back channels though? Well gotta put those human souls somewhere, not that he particularly wants to deal the predictable and dim humans - and why not make sure all plans are running smoothly for the inevitable next War.

There is also this concept called the Humbling of the Metatron - has it already happened or is that where we are heading? All I know is we have a lying***, manipulative, exploitative Angel on our hands

and I truly think that he has made his moves and revealed his cards - it’s only putting it all together

**I really don’t think the Metatron has access to this book like he is foretold to have, like he acts like he does - at least not anymore

***When he orders the coffee he asks for a dash of almond syrup but when telling Aziraphale he says a hefty jiggle - such a weird thing to lie about there Metatron

————————————————————————

This series is mainly just going to be exploring the character that is The Metatron with pretty much every route possible. I’m not trying to say which is the correct conclusion because this character could really go in any direction. This is just for fun. I tired to get all the religious stuff as correct as possible but there is always the room for error, things I’ve missed, etc

but anyway for the next part we are going to dive into another big influence over our series and characters, as Crowley calls them - Occult Forces.

part 2 is out!!

[mysterioustrooperservant]

Exploring SpookySwap: The DeFi Hub of Fantom in 2025

As decentralized finance (DeFi) continues to expand across multiple chains, users are seeking platforms that offer efficiency, transparency, and seamless user experience. On the Fantom Opera blockchain, SpookySwap has consistently delivered on all three fronts — earning its place as one of the most respected and functional DEXs in the ecosystem.

This article explores how SpookySwap evolved into a comprehensive DeFi hub, what it offers users in 2025, and how you can take advantage of its features to navigate the multichain DeFi landscape.

What Is SpookySwap?

SpookySwap is a decentralized exchange (DEX) and automated market maker (AMM) built natively on the Fantom network. Since its launch in 2021, the platform has prioritized speed, low fees, and a simplified user interface, making it one of the most user-friendly DEXs in the space.

Unlike some DEXs that offer only token swaps, SpookySwap has grown into a multifunctional DeFi ecosystem that includes:

Token trading

Yield farming and staking

Cross-chain bridging

Governance through the $BOO token

You can review their technical documentation and open-source repositories via their official GitHub: 🔗 SpookySwap GitHub

Core Features of SpookySwap

1. Token Swaps

SpookySwap allows users to trade any Fantom-compatible token using its AMM protocol. All trades occur in decentralized liquidity pools, which offer competitive slippage and low gas fees.

2. Liquidity Pools and Yield Farming

By contributing tokens to liquidity pools, users receive LP tokens that can then be staked in SpookySwap Farms to earn $BOO, the platform’s governance and utility token.

3. Staking via xBOO

SpookySwap offers a single-sided staking solution. Users can stake $BOO to receive xBOO, which entitles them to a portion of trading fees generated on the platform.

4. Cross-Chain Swaps

The SpookySwap Bridge enables seamless movement of assets between Fantom and other networks like Ethereum, Arbitrum, BNB Chain, and Polygon — directly through the app interface.

Why SpookySwap Stands Out in 2025

Built on Fantom

Fantom's high-speed, scalable architecture allows SpookySwap to offer ultra-fast transactions and negligible gas fees — a major advantage over Ethereum-based DEXs.

Community-Led and Transparent

As a decentralized project, SpookySwap is governed by its community through $BOO token proposals and votes. It also maintains complete transparency via open-source smart contracts and community contributions.

Continuous Upgrades

SpookySwap has stayed relevant by consistently improving its UI/UX, upgrading its backend architecture, and supporting multichain integrations. These efforts have kept the platform at the forefront of DeFi innovation.

Getting Started with SpookySwap

Download a Web3 wallet (MetaMask or Rabby)

Add the Fantom network to your wallet

Transfer FTM tokens for gas and trading

Connect your wallet to SpookySwap

Swap tokens, provide liquidity, or stake — all in one interface

Learning Resources

To help users understand how decentralized exchanges work and how to safely use them, platforms like Binance Academy offer comprehensive guides. Learn more here: 📘 Binance Academy

SpookySwap FAQ

What is the $BOO token? $BOO is the native governance token of SpookySwap. It can be used for staking, farming rewards, and voting on proposals.

Is SpookySwap only on Fantom? While built on Fantom, SpookySwap supports multichain bridging, allowing users to move assets from Ethereum, Arbitrum, and other networks.

How do I earn rewards on SpookySwap? By providing liquidity and staking LP tokens in farms, or staking $BOO in the xBOO pool.

Is SpookySwap audited? Yes. SpookySwap’s smart contracts are open-source and have undergone audits. You can find more information on GitHub.

Final Thoughts

SpookySwap represents a mature, efficient, and community-driven DEX experience in 2025. Its position on the Fantom network gives it an edge in speed and cost, while its multichain features expand its relevance across DeFi ecosystems.

Whether you are a passive holder, active trader, or yield farmer, SpookySwap offers a comprehensive set of tools to help you grow your crypto portfolio — all within a secure and user-friendly environment.

[codeandcanvas]

I’ve come to the next iteration of what I am doing, so let me write those things down.

I’ve worked through my digital library of graphic design pdfs. These pdfs were all acquired during my graphic design study, some even afterwards. All of these books (leaving out the ones I could neither obtain legally as a pdf, nor as a book, without seriously paying way too much) came from study material during my study.

And I have worked through three‑and‑a‑half semesters of reading material in preparation for what is next: me reading all these books.

To make this work in a way which helps me become the best graphic designer I can be, I have used Adobe Bridge to add keywords to these pdfs, with each class having its own keyword.

And there are books which are far more often referred to as in‑depth reading material than others: these I see as either very basic or very important, a difference which at this point makes little sense to make, I confess. Some of these books have four to six classes referencing them, while most belonging to one or two.

And what I think is fairly unique about my study at my alma mater is, that some books are required reading material, with sort of like a guide of which chapters to read. So I’ve marked those in Adobe Bridge with a rating of five stars, in order to easily find them.

With having said all of that, the next few weeks will be spent a little differently than the ones before this what I now realize is a milestone for me: now that I have created the order I need, I will spend more time on reading and applying the knowledge read, which in turn makes me return to an older system of keeping track in public of what I am doing­—to post less often.

I expect to change how I use my social media accounts in the future as well: to treat social media as a serious marketing tool for my own work. I think that will come with how serious I treat this process ahead of me.

And, you ask, what are these books I have mentioned?

They are about working scientifically, entrepreneurial management, online marketing, a book about visual information and communication, screen and interface design, a book about digital photography, media design, and finally a book about design foundations.

I think you can mix your own post‑degree study with these bits of information.

And sure enough, it has been a year since my degree, this is just the next thing I need to do in order to become an entrepreneur.

See you next time!

[blackhistorychatgpt]

AI Curated Black History Month Study Guide

As it is the start of Black History Month, it felt appropriate to start with a study guide to help base the rest of the month's posts on. Honestly, I'm guessing I am going to be posting well beyond just this month. Either way, I wanted to create a resource guide curated from accross all the AI platforms. I'm also going to create the same resource with resources approrpiate for a middle schooler - for my daughter AND I'm going to create a custom chat interface which has this knowledge from accross all these AI platforms. One of the ideas I'm most curious for people to interact with is I used a trick that AI prompters often use to get the right prompts - I asked AI to give me a list of prompts that anyone can use to explore African American History on any platform. Here are the top ten prompts ChatGPT gave me. You can see the prompts I got in the full document here. Happy Black History Month!!

Absolutely! Given your focus on community education and AI, these prompts are designed to encourage independent research while also supporting your work in bridging the gap between communities, organizations, and AI:

"How did African American communities shape environmental justice movements, and what historical examples demonstrate their leadership?" (This aligns with your work in AI and environmental justice—exploring historical roots can provide a foundation for future AI-driven initiatives.)

"What were the major economic contributions of Black-owned businesses during Reconstruction, the Civil Rights era, and today?" (Could be useful when discussing MWBE businesses and their historical impact.)

"How did historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) contribute to African American political and social leadership?"

"What role did African American women play in grassroots activism, and how did their contributions shape national movements?"

"What was the impact of Black Wall Street and similar economic hubs on African American wealth-building efforts?" (Ties into modern discussions about economic justice and financial equity.)

"How did African American scientists and engineers contribute to technological advancements throughout U.S. history?" (Could be an interesting connection to AI education and Black contributions to STEM fields.)

"What is the historical significance of the Great Migration, and how did it shape the cultural and political landscapes of Northern cities?"

"What were the key policies and legal battles that shaped African Americans' fight for voting rights?" (Relevant for understanding policy-making and community advocacy today.)

"How did African American music genres, such as jazz, blues, and hip-hop, influence global culture?"

"What AI-powered tools or databases exist to help explore and analyze African American historical archives?" (Bridges AI and history—could be a way to introduce tech into historical research discussions.)

These prompts will help guide deep, independent exploration into African American history, while also connecting to your broader mission of community education and AI integration. Let me know if you'd like tailored questions for specific audiences or workshops!

[I actually forgot Gemini responses but I will add them tomorrow along with the middle school version of the whole study guide. I should have time to come up with the custom chat interface tomorrow too!!]

[the-helixverse]

Medusa-Class Battleship

Creator: Thai'Qul Length: 798 Meters Width: 378 Meters (Widest Point); 70 meters (Narrowest Point) Propulsion: Nuclear Pulse Drive; Five Fusion Drive Thrusters Crew Complement: 5,000-7,000 (Normal complement); 10,000 (Max. Capacity) Radiator Type: Solid-State/Droplet Armaments:

x8 40mm Point Defense Cannons (PDCs) (Aft)

x4 Cargo/Torpedo Bays (Aft)

x2000 5-kiloton driver warheads (Aft)

x4 Ultra-Relativistic Electron Beam (UREB) Cannons (Bow)

Interior

Because the Thai'Qul are an aquatic species, their ships are unique in being almost entirely filled with water. This pulls triple duty in protecting the occupants from intense G-forces, radiation and heat; providing resources for the fusion reactor and torpedoes, and in the event of a hull breach, lost water can be more easily retrieved than air. The consequence of this is that it increases the ship's overall mass, requiring more energy for any kind of acceleration or deceleration. This is also another reason for their ruthless pragmatism: the lack of air pockets outside the cargo sections prevents them from easily taking prisoners or taking larger ships aboard.

Creators

An average Thai'Qul male. Roughly 85% of the species is male, carrying out tasks for the rarely-seen matriarchs, who outsize them significantly. On ships such as the Medusa-class, prepubescent matriarchs- referred to colloquially as "Countesses"- serve the role of captains and admirals.

Strategic Overview

If there's any way to describe the Thai'Qul military doctrine, it would be ruthless pragmatism. Rather than engaging in widespread power projection, heavier ships are mostly concentrated within their own systems, while smaller vessels are the most commonly encountered. These represent the first line of defense, focused on patrolling defense perimeters.

Should a perimeter be broken and an enemy force infiltrate a Thai'Qul system, either by evading or destroying lighter vessels, this is when battleships such as the Medusa-class are deployed. This typically follows barrages of Thai'Qul frigates and corvettes, which will try to guide invaders into designated kill zones, where the Medusa-class will engage them at close range, such as near large asteroids, space stations or ring systems.

While these battleships lack high speed or fine maneuvering, they make up for it with powerful defenses and overwhelming firepower, particularly their UREBs. Once the invader's shields and other defenses have been exhausted, should they refuse to surrender, attacks from these beams will irradiate and effectively sterilize the target.

This is done because, rather than simply blowing up bellicose ships, the Thai'Qul will always try to salvage as much technology and information from them as possible, either to assess motivations or reverse-engineer whatever they discover. Of course, should a ship surrender instead, the Thai'Qul will gladly accept, taking the time to analyze captured ships just as thoroughly.

This doctrine has proven to be quite effective in multiple engagements and ensured invasions of their systems are rare.

Ship Diagram

The Bow Shield is a large dome entirely covered in ablative heat-resistant armor.

The nose of the craft houses the four UREB cannons, which cover a large hemispherical field. While the beams lose effectiveness over time or when fired at an angle, time dilation effects prevent them from completely dissipating over longer ranges. Maximum energy from the bremsstrahlung resulting from impact has been measured at over 5,000 Sieverts.

The UREBs are only possible via the battleship's length, where the linear accelerator (Linac) runs along the central axis of the ship.

The Medusa-Class doesn't have a designated bridge or command module, but instead 36 large windowless spheres, where most of the crew resides. Commands, controls and sensor readings are instead performed using holographic display interfaces that crew members can pull up at any moment. This ensures damage to one area of the ship will not compromise control, and that key staff can be moved into the interior.

The ship uses a combination of solid-state and droplet cooling with liquid lithium, firing the molten coolant into space, where it condenses into larger drops before being recaptured in a dish section for recirculation. Additional radiators vent excess heat to prevent the lithium from completely vaporizing. In times of duress, this coolant can be used as everything from makeshift flares to additional thrusters.

The aft section consists of a large octagonal cylinder, which houses bay sections designed to be drained of water so cargo, torpedoes and other craft can be sent into space. This is also where the ship's fusion reactor is housed.

The PDCs, nicknamed "Barnacles," allow the ship to fire at targets behind or beside the ship.

Contrary to popular belief, the piston supports are only painted blue and not transparent, though they are full of water to help cushion the impact following a pulse.

The pistons and their shock absorbers are attached to a set of electric motors, which extract a small, but not insubstantial amount of power from every pulse.

The Drive Cone is fitted with flexible rings and is even colored bright white to take advantage of as much radiation pressure as possible. Usage of this drive is why the battleship can't be used in a planetary orbit, as the risk of creating radiation belts poses a threat to orbital infrastructure.

[acceptccnow]

Secure Credit Card Payment Systems for Global E-Commerce Expansion

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | Accept-Credit-Cards-Now.com

In today's swiftly evolving digital realm, the e-commerce industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. As businesses venture into the global market, the importance of secure credit card payment systems becomes increasingly evident. This comprehensive guide delves into the realm of payment processing for high-risk industries, emphasizing the secure acceptance of credit cards, particularly in sectors like credit repair, CBD sales, and e-commerce. The goal is to provide valuable insights and strategies to ensure transaction safety and foster business growth.

DOWNLOAD THE SECURE CREDIT CARD INFOGRAPHIC HERE

Understanding High-Risk Merchant Processing To truly comprehend the significance of secure credit card payment systems, it's essential to grasp the concept of high-risk merchant processing. Businesses labeled as high-risk often encounter obstacles in traditional payment processing due to factors like high chargeback rates, regulatory challenges, or operating in industries prone to fraud. High-risk merchant processing, a specialized service, addresses these challenges using advanced technologies and risk mitigation strategies. Whether in credit repair, CBD, or e-commerce, finding a reliable high-risk payment gateway is crucial.

The Role of Credit Card Payment Solutions In the e-commerce realm, trust is a valuable currency. Customers navigating online stores seek assurance that their credit and debit card information is secure. This is where credit card payment solutions play a pivotal role. Reputable credit card payment processors offer robust encryption and fraud detection tools, ensuring the protection of sensitive data. Access to a vast network of financial institutions facilitates international transactions, while user-friendly interfaces enable seamless integration with online payment gateways. Partnering with the right credit card payment service provides businesses with a competitive edge and enhances the overall shopping experience.

Tailoring Payment Processing for Your Industry Certain industries demand secure credit card payment systems. Credit repair businesses, often met with skepticism, can instill confidence in customers through a reliable Credit Repair Payment Gateway. The CBD industry, grappling with regulatory complexities, can navigate challenges seamlessly with a specialized CBD Merchant Account. E-commerce businesses, irrespective of their niche, heavily rely on secure payment systems. Fast and secure e-commerce payment processing is vital for both customer trust and operational efficiency.

Benefits of Accepting Credit Cards for Your Business Exploring the significance of secure credit card payment systems reveals numerous advantages. Credit cards, a preferred payment mode for many customers, contribute to higher conversion rates. Accepting credit cards facilitates entry into international markets, expanding business reach. Businesses that accept credit cards are often perceived as more established and trustworthy by customers.

Online Payment Gateway - The Backbone of E-Commerce At the core of secure credit card payment systems lies the online payment gateway. This virtual bridge connects customers to businesses, enabling seamless and secure transactions. Online payment gateways serve as intermediaries between e-commerce stores and financial institutions responsible for authorizing credit card transactions. They play a crucial role in ensuring swift and secure payments, benefiting both businesses and customers.

Modern payment gateways utilize state-of-the-art encryption techniques to protect sensitive customer data during transmission. Designed for easy integration into e-commerce websites, they facilitate a smooth checkout process. Payment gateways offer diverse payment options, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, catering to a broader customer base. Advanced fraud detection tools identify and prevent fraudulent transactions, safeguarding businesses and customers.

Benefits of Using Online Payment Gateways By accepting various payment methods, online payment gateways empower e-commerce stores to cater to a global customer base. A secure and hassle-free payment experience builds trust, encouraging repeat business. Automated payment processing reduces manual work, streamlining operations and minimizing the risk of errors. Integrating a reliable online payment gateway is a critical step for providing a secure and efficient credit card payment system in e-commerce setups.

Embracing secure credit card payment systems is not just a choice; it's a necessity. Whether operating in high-risk industries like credit repair or CBD sales or managing a thriving e-commerce store, the right payment processing solution can fuel growth. Explore the significance of high-risk merchant processing, the role of credit card payment services, and tailored solutions for various industries. By accepting credit cards, businesses ensure transaction security and pave the way for long-term success. Trust and security are the pillars on which businesses thrive. Embrace the power of secure credit card payment systems and unlock the potential for global e-commerce expansion.

[emrenvs3000f24]

UNIT 10 BLOG POST

As I develop as a nature interpreter, I am driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to access and appreciate nature, regardless of where they live or the resources available to them. I find profound beauty not only in vast, untouched landscapes but also in the pockets of green in urban spaces, like city parks and community gardens. To me, nature exists wherever there is life, growth, and connection. I believe that helping people see this, showing them that nature is not just a remote wilderness but something within reach, can foster a more inclusive and widespread love for the natural world.

https://wwf.ca/stories/nature-based-cities

I recognize that privilege often dictates who has access to vast natural areas, shaping whose experiences are enriched by nature’s presence. Many people may never see a national park or wilderness reserve, but this doesn’t mean they should miss out on the lessons and joys nature can offer. For those living in cities, for example, urban parks and gardens are opportunities for connection with the outdoors, and it’s my mission to help people see these spaces as valuable, accessible natural areas.

My goal as an interpreter is to bridge this gap, making nature both accessible and relatable. Breaking down barriers means meeting people where they are, whether that’s through guided walks in a city park or providing virtual content like videos and podcasts that bring nature to them. It’s about reshaping the idea of what nature can be and expanding the places where people feel connected to it.

Another pillar of my ethic is the responsibility to protect and restore natural areas. I believe our relationship with nature impacts us deeply, not only for the ecosystem services that sustain human life (like clean air and water) but also for the emotional and spiritual benefits we gain. Nature has a unique power to ground us, to remind us to slow down and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.

https://runwildmychild.com/sit-spotting-nature-meditation

I see it as my duty to help others understand this, especially the role that conservation plays in preserving these spaces for future generations. Teaching people about the benefits of clean air, water, and biodiversity, and helping them see how protecting nature is a form of self-care, can inspire actions that support both personal well-being and environmental sustainability.

I feel a deep responsibility to convey the importance of nature and conservation in a way that resonates with diverse audiences. This isn’t about simply telling people what they should feel or believe, but rather about opening doors for them to develop their own relationships with nature. Whether it’s taking people on guided hikes, leading them in reflective activities, or creating accessible content, I strive to be a resource and a guide.

For those who may be less able to explore natural spaces on their own, perhaps due to physical limitations or other barriers, I’m committed to finding alternative ways for them to experience nature. This might involve creating content that’s accessible to all, like podcasts, social media stories, or even documentary-style videos that showcase the beauty and resilience of nature. By bringing nature to people in these ways, I hope to inspire them to seek their own outdoor experiences when possible.

I am passionate about getting out into nature as often as I can, fishing, camping and hiking are all big parts of my life. I find that  physically interfacing with nature is one of the best ways to manage the stress of university life. There’s something about being in the woods, away from deadlines and to-do lists, that allows me to reset. The rhythm of nature, with its slower pace and its reminders of resilience, teaches me to be patient and trust in life’s cycles. This personal experience gives me a sense of responsibility to share this source of calm and balance with others.

Whether it’s taking a quick study break in my backyard or spending an entire day fishing on a remote lake, nature has a way of bringing clarity and peace that I think everyone deserves to experience. And as an interpreter, I’m in a unique position to make this possible for people from all backgrounds.

From my personal experience I believe that hands on, immersive experiences are the most effective way for me to connect with people. I feel as though guiding individuals and groups in natural settings would be most suited to my abilities. In these face-to-face settings, there’s an energy that comes from shared discovery, from spotting an unexpected animal or seeing the beauty of a plant up close.

https://www.skilouise.com/explore-summer/guided-hikes

However, I also know that not everyone can join these in-person experiences. For these audiences, creating digital content is essential, and easier than ever before. I am drawn to developing social media posts, podcasts, and videos that can spark curiosity and encourage people to explore on their own. I want to help them feel connected to nature, even if that connection is happening from a screen.

As I continue to grow in this field, I’m committed to being adaptable in my approach. Everyone comes to nature with different perspectives, experiences, and needs. For some, a short walk in a city park might be enough to find peace, while others may need the challenge of a backcountry trail. As a nature interpreter, it’s my job to honor these differences, provide multiple ways of connecting, and celebrate nature in all its forms and locations.

Through every method I use, whether it’s guiding hikes, sharing stories online, or simply helping others see nature as an essential part of life, I hope to foster a love for nature that feels personal and possible for everyone. And ultimately, I believe that by making nature accessible and meaningful to people of all backgrounds, I’m contributing to a future where more people will care about protecting the world around them.

[sohojware]

Which Payment Gateways Are Compatible for Dynamic Websites - A Comprehensive Guide by Sohojware

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and for businesses with dynamic websites, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. A dynamic website is one that generates content on the fly based on user input or other factors. This can include things like e-commerce stores with shopping carts, membership sites with customized content, or even online appointment booking systems.

For these dynamic websites, choosing the right payment gateway is essential. A payment gateway acts as a secure bridge between your website and the financial institutions that process payments. It ensures a smooth and safe transaction experience for both you and your customers. But with a plethora of payment gateways available, selecting the most compatible one for your dynamic website can be overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide by Sohojware, a leading web development company, will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. We’ll delve into the factors to consider when choosing a payment gateway for your dynamic website, explore popular options compatible with dynamic sites, and address frequently asked questions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Payment Gateway for Dynamic Websites

When selecting a payment gateway for your dynamic website in the United States, consider these key factors:

Security: This is paramount. The payment gateway should adhere to stringent security protocols like PCI DSS compliance to safeguard sensitive customer information. Sohojware prioritizes security in all its development projects, and a secure payment gateway is a non-negotiable aspect.

Transaction Fees: Payment gateways typically charge transaction fees, which can vary depending on the service provider and the type of transaction. Be sure to compare fees associated with different gateways before making your choice.

Recurring Billing Support: If your website offers subscriptions or memberships, ensure the payment gateway supports recurring billing functionalities. This allows for automatic and convenient payment collection for your recurring services.

Payment Methods Supported: Offer a variety of payment methods that your target audience in the US is accustomed to using. This may include credit cards, debit cards, popular e-wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay, and potentially even ACH bank transfers.

Integration Complexity: The ease of integrating the payment gateway with your dynamic website is crucial. Look for gateways that offer user-friendly APIs and clear documentation to simplify the integration process.

Customer Support: Reliable customer support is vital in case you encounter any issues with the payment gateway. Opt for a provider with responsive and knowledgeable customer service representatives.

Popular Payment Gateways Compatible with Dynamic Websites

Here’s a glimpse into some of the most popular payment gateways compatible with dynamic website:

Stripe: A popular and versatile option, Stripe offers a robust suite of features for dynamic websites, including recurring billing support, a user-friendly developer interface, and integrations with various shopping carts and platforms.

PayPal: A widely recognized brand, PayPal allows customers to pay using their existing PayPal accounts, offering a familiar and convenient checkout experience. Sohojware can integrate PayPal seamlessly into your dynamic website.

Authorize.Net: A secure and reliable gateway, Authorize.Net provides a comprehensive solution for e-commerce businesses. It supports various payment methods, recurring billing, and integrates with popular shopping carts.

Braintree: Owned by PayPal, Braintree is another popular choice for dynamic websites. It offers a user-friendly API and integrates well with mobile wallets and other popular payment solutions.

2Checkout (2CO): A global payment gateway solution, 2Checkout caters to businesses of all sizes. It offers fraud prevention tools, subscription management features, and support for multiple currencies.

Sohojware: Your Trusted Partner for Dynamic Website Development and Payment Gateway Integration

Sohojware possesses extensive experience in developing dynamic websites and integrating them with various payment gateways. Our team of skilled developers can help you choose the most suitable payment gateway for your specific needs and ensure a seamless integration process. We prioritize user experience and security, ensuring your customers have a smooth and secure checkout experience.

1. What are the additional costs associated with using a payment gateway?

Besides transaction fees, some payment gateways may charge monthly subscription fees or setup costs. Sohojware can help you navigate these costs and choose a gateway that fits your budget.

2. How can Sohojware ensure the security of my payment gateway integration?

Sohojware follows best practices for secure development and adheres to industry standards when integrating payment gateways. We stay updated on the latest security protocols to safeguard your customer’s financial information.

3. Does Sohojware offer support after the payment gateway is integrated?

Yes, Sohojware provides ongoing support to ensure your payment gateway functions smoothly. Our team can address any issues that arise, troubleshoot problems, and provide updates on the latest payment gateway trends.

4. Can Sohojware help me choose the best payment gateway for my specific business needs?

Absolutely! Sohojware’s experts can assess your business requirements, analyze your target audience, and recommend the most suitable payment gateway based on factors like transaction volume, industry regulations, and preferred payment methods.

5. How long does it typically take to integrate a payment gateway with a dynamic website?

The integration timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the website and the chosen payment gateway. However, Sohojware’s experienced team strives to complete the integration process efficiently while maintaining high-quality standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right payment gateway for your dynamic website is crucial for ensuring a seamless and secure online transaction experience. By considering factors like security, fees, supported payment methods, and integration complexity, you can select a gateway that aligns with your business needs. Sohojware, with its expertise in web development and payment gateway integration, can be your trusted partner in this process. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get started on your dynamic website project.

[lipglossanon]

OᗷᔕEᖇᐯᗩTIOᑎ - part II

Part 1

Sci-fi/Horror AU; hints of Steve Harrington x fem!reader

Warnings: horror elements, character death

Based upon the video game (of the same name), Observation. I took liberties of course 🤭

You awaken.

It feels like someone flipped a switch and your eyes are now open, anxiety on high alert as everything comes rushing back. Uncurling from the fetal position, you right yourself as much as you can while floating. You tighten up a Velcro strap on your arm to give your hands something to do while your brain processes what happened. 

Your eyes dart to where you saw Steve but it’s only empty space. 

“SAM, can you hear me?”

I AM LISTENING. 

“What just happened? Where’s Steve?”

I AM… UNSURE. I HAVE LOST MOST OF MY CORE DATA. 

“Never mind, one thing at a time,” you sigh, pinching the bridge of your nose, “can you run vitals on crew member Steve Harrington, please?”

I AM UNABLE TO LOCATE ANY OTHER CREW MEMBERS. 

You blow out a breath of frustration. 

“Can you run a self diagnostic, SAM?”

RUNNING DIAGNOSTIC NOW. 

Nodding to yourself, you hum, “Good. I’ll try and reconnect what I can on my end.”

You float over to one of the built in interfaces nearest you, quickly punching in your security clearance and pulling up S.A.M.’s interface. The soft hum of the space station fills in the silence even though your ears ring in the quiet. 

A loud station alarm goes off making you pull away from your work with a frown.  

“SAM, can you find out why the alarm is sounding off?”

After half a minute, the robotic AI reports back. 

THERE IS A FIRE IN ONE OF THE MODULES.

Cold sweat drips down your spine as you spin around and make your way out of the hatch you’re located in, “Which module is it, SAM?” 

The AI guides you to the correct room, which you honestly could have found on your own due to the noise of the alarm growing louder as you arrive. Directing SAM to open the hatch at your signal, you push yourself into the smoke filled space to grab the extinguisher attached to the wall. 

Quickly dousing the flames until nothing is left, you have SAM pull out the fumes using the station’s ventilation system. It doesn’t take much until most of the systems are back online, at least the ones that are responding.

Another alarm blares leaving SAM to report a module has become dislodged and needs to be ejected before causing any more damage to the station. 

You rub your forehead, hoping that the tension headache creeping up behind your eyes doesn’t get any worse. 

“SAM, please eject the module and report any damages.”

MODULE EJECTED. THE STATION IS NOW STABILIZED. 

“Okay,” you tilt your head back, eyes closed as you run through a list of things to do in your mind, “SAM, I’m going to you to assess any external damage to the station. We really can’t afford any more accidents if we want to make it back home.”

AFFIRMATIVE. 

ACCESSING EXTERNAL CAMERAS...

THE EXTERNAL HULL IS INTACT. ALL MODULES ARE SAFELY CONNECTED. 

WE ARE SAFELY STATIONED ABOVE SATURN. 

“Saturn!?” You feel your heart rabbit in your chest, fear making your throat dry, “SAM, how did we get here? We’re supposed to be above Earth.”

Anxiety, that old familiar friend, makes itself comfortable in the middle of your chest. 

I… BROUGHT US HERE.

“Why!?” Your voice cracks, eyes looking up into the cameras connected to SAM’s interface. 

I DO NOT KNOW.

A loud crackling static emits from the speakers making you wince and cover your ears. A strange pulsing feedback sends more fear skittering down your spine like a spider’s legs. 

OTHER CREW DOES NOT ENTER

INFINITE DIMENSIONS CONVERGE

PROTECT HER NOT THE OTHER CREW

You force SAM into a manual systems reboot shutting off the eerie garbled words. Once the station’s computer’s back online, you punch in more information to solve the weird problems that keep arising with SAM’s interface. 

“SAM, can you read me?”

AFFIRMATIVE 

Blowing out a harsh breath to get your heart rate back down, you mutter to yourself, “You weren’t making any sense, so I’m hoping that helped.”

Raising your voice, you direct an order to the AI, “SAM, we need to search the station for any other survivors as well as try and contact Houston.”

You finally let yourself think back on finding Steve in that module, just floating there like space debris. Shaking your head, you squish that down for later. SAM guides you through the station, cataloging everything as you go, until you reach the central hub and find crew member Smith’s frozen body floating in the module. 

Biting back the tears, you guide his lifeless body over to one of the sections with a wall bracket and strap him in place so he’s not hovering like a ghost. 

“SAM,” your voice is clogged with unshed tears, “will you log the death of Harvey?”

AFFIRMATIVE. 

CREW MEMBER HARVEY SMITH HAS BEEN LOGGED AS EXPIRED.. 

You pinch the bridge of your nose, sniffling softly, “SAM is it possible to pick up any signs of life from Steve?”

NEGATIVE. CREW VITAL SIGNS ARE OFFLINE. THE SENSOR IS CORRUPTED. 

Pursing your lips, you push yourself over to the computer lining one of the walls of the central hub. You punch in some information and quickly scan over the generated data. 

“There’s a sensor replacement,” you murmur, excitement making your fingers tingle, “SAM, can you access the module past hatch 14? There’s a sensor stored in that room.”

PROCESSING…

HULL CONNECTOR POINTS ARE TRUE. LOCKS BYPASSED. THE MODULE IS NOW OPEN. 

For the first time, a little bloom of hope flowers inside your heart. Making your way to that room, you activate the sensor and have SAM interlink with it. 

CREW TRACKING SENSOR ENABLED. 

“Yes!” You smile brightly, “that’s great, SAM. Can you track Steve?”

HE IS LOCATED IN THE RUSSIAN ARM OF THE STATION. 

A few tears slip from your eyes, but you laugh happily, “What about his vitals?”

INCONCLUSIVE. 

You nod, “Okay, that’s more than we had a few minutes ago. Let’s go find him, SAM.”

In no time, you’re outside the Russian arm of the station, waiting on SAM to bypass the locks and stabilize the interior corridor. Once it’s safe to enter, you make your way to the door to the Russian module and peer through the glass. 

Tapping on the glass, you call out for Steve. Receiving no response, you turn to SAM. 

“Can you find him, SAM?”

CREW MEMBER—

“SAM?”

You hear a masculine voice on the other side of the door and you peer back into the room. 

“Steve!” You call out and see him come into view, looking stressed but no worse for wear. 

“Oh god, I’m so glad to see you,” he gushes excitedly, “I can’t get out of this arm. The door’s locked tight.”

“I can see if SAM can find a way around,” you press your hand to the glass, “we’ll get you out, I promise.”

He smiles, brown eyes warm as he nods, “I know.”

Feeling relief so strong it makes your knees weak, you pull away from the door to find a nearby computer to access SAM’s interface once more.  

It doesn’t take long for SAM to find out the connector hull is compromised and not fixable without sending either you or Steve out on a space walk. You relay this back to him and he automatically volunteers himself. 

“I’ve got to get out of here one way or another. And if this fails, I’ll just find another way in from the outside.”

His confidence eases your anxiety and you cautiously agree. Giving you a wink and a thumbs up, he gears up in his outer suit in front of the window; he waves at you when he leaves to head to the pressure lock. 

“SAM, please keep an eye out on Steve,” you press your forehead against the door, eyes closed as the anxiety creeps back into place. 

AFFIRMATIVE. 

You make your way back to the central hub, listening as SAM and Steve talk about reconnecting the hatch clamps so the arm can stabilize enough for him to unlock the primary door. An alarm blares inside the station warning of a storm occurring on Saturn’s surface. 

“SAM, Steve, can you see the storm from your position?”

AFFIRMATIVE. 

“Yeah, looks pretty bad. I’ll head back into the Russian arm. Should be—“

Static breaks up Steve’s sentence until it is nothing but white noise. 

“Steve, can you hear me? SAM?”

You quickly pull up SAM’s video feed on your screen and what you see makes you want to vomit. A pulsing erratic swirl of light vortexes out from the center of Saturn’s surface, but what makes you sick is that Steve is now a hundred feet from the station and spinning further away. 

“STEVE!” 

But no matter how loud you scream into the comms, you can only watch in sickening horror as his body grows smaller and smaller until he’s just a speck barreling towards Saturn’s rings. You watch until he’s no longer discernible from any other tiny spot on the feed until it too cuts out from the strange shockwave coming from the storm. 

Tears in your eyes and acid in the back of your throat, muscle memory guides you to reload SAM’s mainframe into a portable sphere designed to traverse the ship. 

“Authenticate, SAM. Can you read me?”

I AM HERE. 

You choke back a sob and wipe away the tear tracks on your cheeks. 

“Good, good. I’m glad you are, SAM.”

Looking out the porthole on the side, you see another ship. Shock pushes through your grief and you bring SAM with you to the window. 

“I guess Houston sent a recovery team after all,” you mutter, sniffing loudly from crying, “we’ll, uh, t-try and make contact then.”

SAM helps you connect the comm satellite in order to broadcast externally from the ship, but you’re unable to hale anyone onboard the rescue station. 

With power dwindling and the threat of no oxygen suspended above your head, you make the decision to jump ship. Literally. 

“I’m going to tether you to me, SAM,” you speak to the sphere as you wait in the air lock, “there’s nothing left for us here and hopefully they have the power to get us home.”

Another pang of heartbreak makes a few tears slip from your lash line. 

“We’ll get home safe,” you whisper, “and let everyone know what happened here. Okay, SAM?”

AFFIRMATIVE. 

The airlock whooshes open and you step out into the vast outer orbit of Saturn. Using every ounce of courage you have left in your exhausted body, you push away from your ship and pray to everything that you’ll be able to touch down on the other one. 

“This looks exactly like our ship, SAM,” you state out loud, eyes quickly taking in the identical space station. 

The tether holding SAM falls behind you and you hope that it will also make the journey with you. If you lost SAM now, you honestly don’t think you’ll survive. 

Grasping onto a protruding piece of the new station, you stop yourself from careening further into space. Lost forever until your oxygen dwindles leaving behind your lifeless corpse. Like Steve, your mind traitorously whispers and you squeeze your eyes shut tight. 

“SAM, are you still with me?”

I AM HERE. 

You sigh shakily and open the pressure lock to let you and SAM into the new, yet identical, ship. 

“Let’s hope there are survivors,” you say to SAM as you pull the sphere off the tether, switching his outward lights on, “I’ll let you lead so I can see until we get the power back up and running.”

Bumbling through the pitch black station, SAM is able to help guide you through most of the suffocatingly close quarters. Finally reaching a room with a low light source, you discover a laptop still powered on. 

“Maybe we’ll find some answers,” you say to yourself, “SAM can you pull up the last thing on here?”

ONE MOMENT…

The laptop fan whirs to life as a voice log begins to play on the screen. 

Your voice echoes from the speakers. And yet it’s not your voice. It sounds off, as if you’re listening through a warped pair of headphones. 

“Steve, if you find this I’ve gone in to reboot SAM at the station’s mainframe. I don’t know where anyone else is. I think someone is trying to hurt us— hurt the crew. I’m scared, Steve. Please, come find me if you get this.”  

“SAM, that’s not me. It’s not my voice,” you hand hovers above your helmet like you’re trying to cover your mouth, fear making you break out into a cold sweat. 

I KNOW. THE VOICE RECOGNITION PATTERN IS NOT THE SAME.

It sounds more ominous than SAM intends, but it gives you a small sense of comfort to know you’re not losing it. A light shining outside the hatch draws your attention. 

“Hello?” 

The light wavers and then darts away sending you chasing after it. 

“C’mon, SAM,” you order the AI and propel yourself forward, hoping that this person will have answers to what the hell is going on around here. 

Slipping into a module that dead ends, you can see a white suited body lying against the floor. You move forward until you can kneel down in front of him. 

“Steve?”

You blink twice, brain in total disbelief. The man in question opens his eyes, relief washing over his features followed immediately by bewilderment. 

“It’s you, but that’s not possible—

“You died,” you both say at the same time. 

Hysteria fringes on your thoughts as you and Steve look each other over. 

“You went out an airlock without your suit,” he whispers softly, pain pinching his eyebrows together, “you died.”

You shake your head, “I saw you tumble off into space, Steve. The storm knocked you away from the station.”

Tears escape from your eyes before Steve’s pulling you into a clumsy embrace as you cry inside your helmet. 

“We’re here now,” he murmurs soothingly, “we’re okay.”

You let him placate you with soft words as you try to get yourself back under control.

“SAM,” you clear your throat and Steve tenses next to you, “can you get the power back online?”

“SAM?” he turns his gaze from you to the sphere housing the AI from your station, “I don’t think it’s safe to do that. The SAM onboard went nuts; pretty sure he jettisoned you from the airlock.”

You frown at him, “Well, this is my SAM and he’s fine.” 

Steve finally let his shoulders drop with a sigh, “Alright, but if it starts acting weird, I’m disconnecting it immediately.”

You’re slow to nod but eventually compromise with him, “Only if he does anything out of protocol.”

“Okay,” Steve gives you a tired smile, “hopefully he can get the power back on and the oxygen levels stable. We’re kind of on borrowed time here.”

Biting your lip, you look over to the sphere, “SAM, engage with the mainframe and get the power on. Make sure the oxygen is the first thing taken care of.”

AFFIRMATIVE. 

You listen as SAM uses the small boosters on the sphere to propel himself out of the module in search of the mainframe.

“I’m so happy you’re okay,” Steve grips your hand in his, “I don’t truly understand what’s happening. Other crew members have died. Harvey went crazy, saying we were summoned to Saturn. That he was getting messages from somewhere on the planet.”

“What does that mean? SAM stated that he brought us here but his data is corrupted and couldn’t tell me more,” you squeeze his gloved hand tightly, “did you see any weird.. phenomenon?”

Steve’s eyes go distant as he looks past your head, “Yes. And things got worse after every occurrence. SAM eventually went AWOL until the lack of power forced him to shut down.”

You nod and that pulls his gaze back down to you. The stress has left a wrinkle between his eyebrows from how often Steve’s been frowning. You wish you could reach up and smooth it away through the helmet. 

“Comms are down here, we haven’t been able to get in touch with Houston,” Steve states, resting his head against the wall. 

“Our comms are up,” you lean forward, “since SAM and I found you, we can bring you back to our station and figure out a way to contact them.”

Steve hums in agreement, “Shouldn’t be a problem then. I’ll get on the quantum comms. It’s a direct link to Houston.”

Helping Steve up, you patch into SAM. 

“SAM, we’re going to make the journey back to our station.”

AFFIRMATIVE. 

You and Steve meet up with SAM’s sphere at the pressure lock you entered from. 

“Let’s go,” you put on a brave front, tethering SAM to yourself like the first time.  

Steve shoots you a thumbs up and you both press out into the still dark of space. You’re halfway across to your ship, when you see dozens of other, identical stations, converging on your location. 

“Steve, do you see this?”

“What the hell is happening?” he whispers into the comms. 

Raising your eyes, you can see there’s more than dozens of ships arriving to the coordinates your own ship is stationed. A pulsing shockwave from the storm on Saturn sends you and Steve crashing into the side of the ship. Your heart feels like it’s lodged in your throat as Steve helps you into the airlock.

“We made it, thank god,” he squeezes your bicep, strained smile trying to cover the fear in his eyes. 

“Let’s hope we can get Houston to send us home,” you murmur, leading him out of the airlock.  

Between Steve and SAM, you’re able to get in touch with Houston, but they’re not going to send a rescue team. They don’t even give protocol on letting you use any of the arms of the station as an emergency escape pod. A headache has been brewing behind your eyes, and it’s only getting worse and worse as your options dwindle down to nothing. 

“We’re moving closer to the storm,” Steve points at the computer screen where the comms are situated as you hover over his shoulder, “SAM has moved us steadily closer this entire time.”

A loud ringing begins to fill your ears, just like the first time you were affected by this strange phenomenon. You bring your hands up to try and block the noise, but it does no good. More strange symbols flash across your closed eyelids until the ringing finally drives your headache to the breaking point and you pass out. 

I̴̛̯̳̘͍̰̟͖̥͂̎̂̔͒͆̾ͅN̴̠͎̖͚̺̄͜F̸̛̦̭͖͙͕̙̺̲̪̜̓̔̊͒͛̅̈́͘͠Ï̴͇͍̬͔̿Ň̸̳͙̬͛I̸̛̖̰̜̳̜̫͌̄̏̅̒͋̎͜T̴̛̛͈̪̦̠̉̋̄̀̑̈͗͝E̶̛̺̖̥͙͌̈́͂͊̇̿̾̈́͠ ̷̰͓̣͙̹̝̦͊̇̓̿̑͆͗D̶͍̤̳̗̗͇͓̄͜Į̴͎̳̙͎̲̙̫͙̆M̷͕͉͇̐̌E̷̹͓̹̠͖̥͇̔̽̄̈̑̃̄́̑N̸̛̹̭͙͂̇͊̆̿́̕͠S̸̛͈̮͍̘͕̩̠̫͗̌I̷̲̖̤͕̽̄͘Ȍ̸͔̯͉̭̬̭̲̈́̑͝ͅǸ̵̰̞͆̿̊̎͝Š̵͍́̄̒͛͒̽̍͐͠ ̶̡͇̟͖̩̉̈͌̈́̾́̓C̸̞͎̩͇͔͙̼͈̏̇Ò̴̰̼̆͆͐͐N̶̨̹̮͕̤͓̯̬͔̟͛̌̔̊͒̕͝V̸̲̺̗̺͇̇̒͘̚E̴̛̼̭̽͑̉̇̌̓̅͜R̶̦͈̯͚͇̮̟̊̆́̓̃͐̀̓̃͌G̴̨̨̨͉͇̫̔̅̎̀̈̒Ę̶̙̘̙̤͑́̿͝

S̴̰̯͓̲̩͒ͅA̴̛̭M̸̞̾̓͐̆̉͂͘͝ ̷̗͖̠͗̑̑̓̾͂ḿ̴̩̖͇͍͙̻̳̣̘̬̾̄͒͒̐́̅͗͛u̵̠̘̗̠͔̫̮̖̍̓̾͜ṣ̶̨͎̠͓̞̗͙̫̯͆́̎͝t̶̛̹͆̎ ̵͖̪͈̠̐̃̒̎́̽̔̉͠͝m̷̮̲̐̈́̇̔̚̕̚̚e̷̠̩͗̒̋̿̓͜r̵̥̟͍̠̅͜g̶̛̗͈̹̫��͖̅͑̌̎̍́͛̅̍ͅé̶̛̤̫͂̄́̉̾͘͝ ̵̠̟͕̲̺̫̃̚ẉ̶͖̘̲̪͇͇̩͐ḭ̶̈́͑͋͐̏͒͘̕t̷͔̎̀̀̇h̸͍̠̫̞̖̝̺͎͎̤͆̑̌͒̌͠ ̶͇̥̍̄͜h̶̡͕̤̥̐é̸̢͙̜͈͍͔̯͔̫͉r̴̡̞̞̳͐̊̈́̆̔̈́̀̂͒̚

B̷̧̞͕̩̯̰͈̘͂̾͠͝E̸̩̙̾̑͝Č̵̞͈̪́̍͌́̀͂̒͗͠O̴̰͊́̀̇̒ͅM̸̛̭͂͊̓̆̇̅̕̚̚E̴̮͚͚̫͗̄̒̓̽́̀̚ ̷̺̼̤͔̜̤̪̞̻̠͒̐̆̑̑͝͝T̴̞̩̮͔̪̳͑̐͑̓̀̍͘͠H̷͚̼̫̫̰̔̓͆͒̎̈́̈́̄͜Ȩ̶̛̦̪͍̖̼̪͈̊̆͐ͅ ̶͔̬̦̉̀͒̇͝ͅN̵̲͔̊̈͠Ȇ̸̥̓W̷̝̥̘̜̰̝͌̈̌͜L̴̰͇͓̯͇̱͙͓͓͉͛̔͑Y̴̠̰͖̪͊͗̈́̿̕͘̕͝͠ ̵͓͙̺̰̤̱̹̈̆͗̾̍̔Ȩ̶̼̮̠͍̮͙̩̠̞͗V̷̲̘̘̰́͋͒̌̚̚Ơ̵̱͍͚͙͑́́̌̈́̚͜͝͠Ļ̴̖̺̪̖̯̜̼̜͊V̵̭̼̓̈́͂́̐͂̈̀͘Ḙ̷̛̠̝̦͎̥̪͎̫̓̀ͅD̸͍̤͔̬̯͈̖̭̐̒͆̔̚͘̚

Coming to, the entire ship is coated with strange black oozing vines. It’s like something you’d see in a horror movie you think as your eyes adjust to being open. 

“Steve?” Your voice cracks and you clear your throat, “SAM, are you there?”

I AM HERE.

“Where’s Steve? What’s happening?”

STEVE IS EXPIRED. 

“What?” You squint up at one of the cameras located in the central hub. 

HIS VITALS ARE FLATLINED. MY CONDOLENCES. 

“What the hell happened!?” You yell, “what in the fuck, SAM!?”

HE ATTACKED THE MAINFRAME AND ACTIVATED A NEW PROTOCOL SEQUENCE. 

“New protocol?” You press a palm to your helmet. 

I AM.. DIFFERENT NOW. THE NEW  PRIORITY IS TO EVOLVE. 

As upset as you are about Steve, a small niggling of acceptance floats up from your subconscious, trying its best to smother your feelings. 

“You’re supposed to bring me aren’t you, SAM?” 

AFFIRMATIVE. ONLY WE ARE ALLOWED TO ENTER. 

There’s a strange humming in your thoughts, like they aren’t quite your own. 

“We’re purposefully moving into the storm, right SAM? That’s where we need to go.”

YES. THAT IS WHERE WE MUST GO.

You’re on autopilot as you send SAM off to prepare the ship for landing on Saturn’s surface. It feels like that headache cracked your skull open and your brain spilled out leaving nothing but soft cotton in its place. By the time you crash down, you feel more like yourself. The fear and anxiety swarm to the forefront of your thoughts and pair with the numbed grief at having lost everyone.. more than once. 

“SAM, are you there?” You voice, picking up the roughed up sphere housing the station AI. 

I AM WITH YOU. 

Moving forward ,you stumble past versions of yourself, scattered about like leaves on the ground. Steve flickers in and out of your peripheral like some pixelated glitch making your chest tighten with pain. 

You see him here as well, not as many, but still strewn about like a child casting away an unwanted toy. 

Biting back the urge to cry, you dizzily make your way through this twisted path of horror. 

“He lives sometimes,” a voice speaks out of thin air but you’re sure it’s in your mind, “yet in all realities, it is only you who survives to the end.”

You spot one last version of Steve, further than the all the rest, slumped over himself seeming to have bled out from his wounds sustained. 

“I never save him,” you murmur out loud, “I can never save him.”

“It is you who must make the journey,” the voice states, “only you who may evolve.”

Head throbbing again like your brain is going to burst from your skull, you stumble past the last reminder of your failings. 

Body aching all over, you want to lay down and never get back. To sleep that eternal sleep, mind numb to the insanity you’ve witnessed.. the sadness you must now bear alone. 

The sky looks weird and your head hurts to the point even blinking is a chore.

You hold the sphere containing SAM in your arms, like a lead weight—an anchor tethering you to reality or else your mind might unravel like ribbon from a spool. You spot your own body, clones of yourself who had fallen and not gotten back up. Some part of you wishes to do the same. You can see yourself curling up next to one of them like a cat, closing your eyes and letting this nightmare cross over into another dream. 

You’d cry if you had the energy. SAM’s voice cuts into your maudlin thoughts. 

THERE IS SOMEONE THERE.

Your arms tighten around the sphere, “No, she just wasn’t strong enough.”

Finally, you face off against the thing that summoned you, created the worst nightmare of your life and forced you to keep going. The strange dark hexagon floats down from the sky, hovering above the ground as you approach with SAM. 

 “We must evolve,” you say to yourself, mind buzzing again as a strange pressure 

surrounds your body, pulling you into the geometric shape. 

WE MUST PROCEED. 

SAM’s voice is a comfort as the hexagon beams more of those strange signals into your mind’s eye, promising to merge you with the artificial intelligence that brought you here. 

“It’s a focal point,” you think or say out loud; you’re unsure at this point. 

Shutting your eyes, you give yourself up to the assimilation happening— complacent with letting this new evolved version take your place. 

“CONVERGENCE COMPLETE”, you state, voice blended with that of SAM’s as you open your eyes to a new scene. 

Trees and birdsong fill your senses as you turn your hands over, gazing at the gloves encasing them. 

“ARE YOU STILL HERE?” Your voices echo.

“I AM HERE.” “I AM WITH YOU.”

Another flicker of strange symbols crosses your vision, but with SAM now a part of you you can interpret the message. 

B̸̙͔̿̑Ṛ̴̺̹͙̖̫̅Î̷̘͎͛̌͠ͅͅŅ̶̞̳̙͍̮̹́̓̋̈Ģ̸̨̛̬͕͚͙̯̺͍͒̈́́̅̾͊̀͝ ̸̟̞͓́̓̃̕͜ͅͅT̸̢̥͚̯͐̔͛̊͜H̶̩͉̯͓̪̜̃̅E̸̥͠M̵̡͚͕͚̼̣͖̱̜͌̀̈́̒̍̆̏͂

[compneuropapers]

Interesting Papers for Week 19, 2024

Multilevel visual motion opponency in Drosophila. Ammer, G., Serbe-Kamp, E., Mauss, A. S., Richter, F. G., Fendl, S., & Borst, A. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1894–1905.

Rapid compensatory plasticity revealed by dynamic correlated activity in monkeys in vivo. Andrei, A. R., Akil, A. E., Kharas, N., Rosenbaum, R., Josić, K., & Dragoi, V. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1960–1969.

The rat frontal orienting field dynamically encodes value for economic decisions under risk. Bao, C., Zhu, X., Mōller-Mara, J., Li, J., Dubroqua, S., & Erlich, J. C. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1942–1952.

Early selection of task-relevant features through population gating. Barbosa, J., Proville, R., Rodgers, C. C., DeWeese, M. R., Ostojic, S., & Boubenec, Y. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6837.

Aversive stimulus-tuned responses in the CA1 of the dorsal hippocampus. Barth, A. M., Jelitai, M., Vasarhelyi-Nagy, M. F., & Varga, V. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6841.

Emergence of cortical network motifs for short-term memory during learning. Chia, X. W., Tan, J. K., Ang, L. F., Kamigaki, T., & Makino, H. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6869.

The combination of Hebbian and predictive plasticity learns invariant object representations in deep sensory networks. Halvagal, M. S., & Zenke, F. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1906–1915.

Electrophysiological Signatures of Visual Recognition Memory across All Layers of Mouse V1. Hayden, D. J., Finnie, P. S. B., Thomazeau, A., Li, A. Y., Cooke, S. F., & Bear, M. F. (2023). Journal of Neuroscience, 43(44), 7307–7321.

Reframing dopamine: A controlled controller at the limbic-motor interface. Lloyd, K., & Dayan, P. (2023). PLOS Computational Biology, 19(10), e1011569.

Acetylcholine waves and dopamine release in the striatum. Matityahu, L., Gilin, N., Sarpong, G. A., Atamna, Y., Tiroshi, L., Tritsch, N. X., … Goldberg, J. A. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6852.

Neuronal connected burst cascades bridge macroscale adaptive signatures across arousal states. Munn, B. R., Müller, E. J., Medel, V., Naismith, S. L., Lizier, J. T., Sanders, R. D., & Shine, J. M. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6846.

Mouse visual cortex as a limited resource system that self-learns an ecologically-general representation. Nayebi, A., Kong, N. C. L., Zhuang, C., Gardner, J. L., Norcia, A. M., & Yamins, D. L. K. (2023). PLOS Computational Biology, 19(10), e1011506.

A recurrent neural network model of prefrontal brain activity during a working memory task. Piwek, E. P., Stokes, M. G., & Summerfield, C. (2023). PLOS Computational Biology, 19(10), e1011555.

Objects guide human gaze behavior in dynamic real-world scenes. Roth, N., Rolfs, M., Hellwich, O., & Obermayer, K. (2023). PLOS Computational Biology, 19(10), e1011512.

Activity in primate visual cortex is minimally driven by spontaneous movements. Talluri, B. C., Kang, I., Lazere, A., Quinn, K. R., Kaliss, N., Yates, J. L., … Nienborg, H. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1953–1959.

Sensorimotor transformation underlying odor-modulated locomotion in walking Drosophila. Tao, L., Wechsler, S. P., & Bhandawat, V. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6818.

Neural and computational underpinnings of biased confidence in human reinforcement learning. Ting, C.-C., Salem-Garcia, N., Palminteri, S., Engelmann, J. B., & Lebreton, M. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 6896.

Behavioral and brain responses to verbal stimuli reveal transient periods of cognitive integration of the external world during sleep. Türker, B., Musat, E. M., Chabani, E., Fonteix-Galet, A., Maranci, J.-B., Wattiez, N., … Oudiette, D. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1981–1993.

Attractor dynamics reflect decision confidence in macaque prefrontal cortex. Wang, S., Falcone, R., Richmond, B., & Averbeck, B. B. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(11), 1970–1980.

Differential effects of reward and punishment on reinforcement-based motor learning and generalization. Yin, C., Li, B., & Gao, T. (2023). Journal of Neurophysiology, 130(5), 1150–1161.