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ricardian-werewolf · 7 months ago

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Chapter 10: The Show Must Go On!

Summary: Nikolai is faced with a conundrum in the leadership of his beloved Ravka, and Alina comes to him in the night needing more support than either Genya or Zoya can provide. Things escalate quite a bit. taglist: @lordbettany, @malkaleh, @fauxraven

Chapter below the cut

Kirbirsk, First Army Encampment, 3 days later.

Nikolai’s fingers clasped tight around the tin mug of coffee Isaak had handed him hours ago.

With it having gone cold, he found his fingers frozen stiff with the reality of riding for three straight days from the north of Ravka to its western edge. Standing as he did now, he found his toes cracking and popping inside the prison of his knitted socks. It was warmer here, frightfully so, and Nikolai had been quick to remove his scarf and goggles in succession. They were tossed carelessly along with his jacket over the back of his chair. Staring up at him, brows furrowed, was Colonel Raevsky of the 22nd Regiment. On Dominik’s orders, he’d been informed that Nikolai was following the Black General’s convoy. He had been told also, in stilted code, that the Sun Summoner was here.

Raevsky regarded him with a raised brow.

“What do you intend to do, Major?” He asked, crossing his arms. Nikolai sipped his coffee, grimaced, and ran his hands over the mug to strengthen the metal. Placing it on the rim of the oil lamp at his elbow, he turned back to the colonel. It would be easy for him to say that he intended to lead the First Army into the Fold in a victorious charge a la the Light Brigade, but that would be a tactical disaster.

Half a league, half a league,

Half a league onward,

All in the valley of Death

Rode the six hundred.

“Forward, the Light Brigade!

Charge for the guns!” he said.

Into the valley of Death

Rode the six hundred.

He knew, from Dominik and Isaak, that First Army’s entire 24 regiments had been sent from their forts and posts to witness this miracle. However, the need for First Army to be there to witness the actions of such a man as the Darkling confused Nikolai. He knew that the Apparat had helped the Darkling take the throne from his father - Genya’s poison had worked too well.

Good riddance.

But Vasily was hardly the man to lead Ravka. Too many of his father’s ministers would use the power vacuum to seize ownership and legitimacy where they would have none under Nikolai’s rule. For that matter, the idea of Vasily leading his cavalry regiment to witness Alina’s saintly coronation frightened him. She was something far too precious, far too unique to be drowned in the mire and muck of court rule in the hands of the older generation. Nikolai found himself gnawing at his thumb cuticle as he thought all of this over, and flexed his free hand worriedly.

“What would you suggest?” Nikolai threw back, worry creasing his brows. He turned to his coffee and sipped it, relishing in the warmth. Colonel Raevsky glanced over his papers, shifting a few of them across his desk. He unfolded several tactical maps of the Unsea and its markers. Neither man knew what the Darkling planned, and it frightened both of them. “The other regimental leaders are assuming that whatever the General has planned, it’s a diversionary tactic. With our Tsar in such poor health, the cabinet has moved to speak with the war Ministry on whether to take up martial law or not.”

“Martial law?” The cup of coffee fell from Nikolai’s fingers with a clatter , and he cursed. “Has the ministry been informed of this happening-” He waved his hand outside at the general setting up of the second army’s tents in the one space set aside for them. “Was my brother told?”

“Of course.” Raevsky’s moustache quivered as he huffed in evident displeasure over the coffee staining his ottoman rug. Nikolai gave him a dark glare. “And he elected to mention that he wished to delay any sort of troop movement until his father was in better health.”

“For fuck’s sake!” Nikolai ground his teeth. “And-”

“As a result.” Raevsky pressed on, ignoring Nikolai’s curse. He shifted some more files on his desk and then held out a manilla folder stamped with the ministry’s seal. Printed in bold cyrillic across the top were the words: PRIVATE. FOR PRINCE NIKOLAI’S EYES ONLY.

Nikolai’s brows furrowed once again as he lifted the seal’s edge with a penknife and tore open the file. Staring him clearly in the face was a piece of blue carbon papers with more typed words, and a TOP SECRET stamped in the right hand corner. His hands began to tremble as he realised just what he was holding. In the case of the heir being unable to work proactively with the war ministry in place of the Tsar, the ministry had the ability to hand the power of rulership to any of the Tsar’s other sons.

Even if they were a bastard.

Nikolai chewed at his lower lip and began to sift through the files. The papers discussed what would happen in terms of military structure, absorption of Second Army under the crown’s rule in case of the Darkling’s uprising - which had happened! - and who would be punished. Nikolai winced at the thought of having to execute these orders, and turned his head to look out the tent flap. Sparing only a few of them would mean that First Army would bay for blood. The fragile and strained relationship between the two armies could be his undoing. But his going after the Grisha would alienate Alina from him perhaps forever. Nikolai ran a hand through his curls.

“When’s this meeting?”

“So you accept?” Raevsky muttered. “Good.” His eyes brightened, and he slid a box toward Nikolai. Nikolai’s pulse thundered in his ears as his gaze shifted to the box. The Tsar’s rule was legitimised by both the crown on his head, but the coronation ring. Where the Lantsov Emerald was the Tsarina’s ring, the Alta Ruby would go only on the Tsar’s finger. Nikolai’s fingers twitched.

“It’s not like Vasily to not claim power when it’s given to him.” He said aloud suddenly, quickly snapping the file shut and winding the ribbon around it. Fear made him uneasy, and the reality of such a heavy burden on his shoulders caused him to pause. Looking at Raevsky, Nikolai sighed. He needed verbal confirmation that what was happening was the truth. He’d been hunted, shot, nearly died twice, and all to protect Alina from the Darkling. Now power was being handed to him on a silver platter, and he was expected merely to scrape and bow and say yes to the massacre of people who may have allied themselves with a monster who went against the crown? All in order to protect them? Nikolai twitched again.

“His Highness is not in much order to do anything .” Raevsky replied dismissively. “He has abandoned the capital for the fields of-”

Careyeva. Where he goes, as is his veteran’s right - despite seeing no action - to drown out his memories. If only he knew a mere scrap of what the horrors of war can appear as.

Nikolai’s thoughts churned with all the anger of a tempestuous sea, and he glanced down at the box again. He could slip that ring onto his finger, take control of First Army, and go toe to toe with his brother. Rain down hellfire and fury. But the Grisha who had been so effortlessly persecuted even without Fjerdan propaganda seeping into their states like rot, there was still danger. Ravka had only recently become better. If he did not take control of First Army, steer her toward the shore of the nation over the people, he would be no better than his father!

“I’ll do it.”

The words fluttered from Nikolai’s mouth and he stiffened, feeling at once that uncanny dissonance between his mind and body that he hated with all of his heart. He stopped, and glanced down at the ring again. Before his mind could catch up to his body, Nikolai flipped the lid on the red velvet jewel box open and stared down at the Alta Ruby. Men of lesser spirit than him had worn this ring and died wearing it. They’d made Ravka into what she was in this day, yet also doomed Fortuna's wheel to spin ever onwards.

He’d break the wheel.

Let his false father and mother see what their adopted, feckless, second son could do with Ravka under his control. This ceaseless war against Fjerda would end. The Fold would be torn to pieces, cast out with Alina’s holy light. The Apparat wished to venerate her? He’d have to do so from the very depths of hell where Nikolai knew, he would one day bring that monster to.

Nikolai flexed his hand, feeling the bite of the gold band of the Tsar’s ring dig into his flesh. Raising a brow, he met Raevsky’s gaze again, and gave the man a hint of a smile. He glanced over his shoulder to the huddled tents surrounding the largest camp on this side of the Fold, and then turned his head back. Protocols would need to be followed, and he needed new heraldry if the crown was to be his. Nikolai rolled his shoulders back, tucked the manilla envelope under his arm, and reached for his kepi.

“Tell the men by the morning.” He ordered, and turned to leave.

“Yes, Moi Tsar .” Raevsky murmured, bowing his head. Nikolai smiled softly, and left as rapidly as he could. Crossing the expanse of packed earth to his tent, Nikolai watched the soldiers still not yet abed smoke and play cards. Some, he knew, found solace in the whorehouses scattered like small satellites near the edges of the once sleeping town of Kirbirsk, near the single chapel with its blue onion domes and gold crosses. It had been here he had made his first Fold crossing at 17, weeks after saving Dominik from the jaws of death. It had been here that he’d been posted before crossing once again to head back to Os Kervo and the Volkvolny.

Here, had been Alina.

Now, as he raised his head and looked across the sea of canvas tents to the Grisha pavilion with the massive, ink-black tent and the smaller tents hosting the other Grisha orders, Nikolai shivered. The darkness inside him, the shadow summoner he was by birth and from the Darkling’s magic with the stag, writhed . It wanted Alina close. It wanted her safe, free from the Darkling’s corrosive and controlling grasp. Nikolai turned his head away from the pavilion. However, as he did, he felt the darkness within him perk up. Turning back, he saw the tent flaps part and a familiar, little form creep out. Clad in a jet black cape with gold sunburst embroidery and her hair braided, Alina crossed down the set of rickety wooden steps and crept through the camp. The wind tugged at her braid, sending strands flying every which way. She looked sicklier than ever, which caused Nikolai’s heart to tug in his chest. He stopped in his tracks, and then crept closer.

“Alina.” He breathed, watching her turn. In the half light cast by the flicker of an oil lamp, she looked like a saint sent to this place to either redeem his soul, or cast it into darkness. She stared at him a moment more, and then began fumbling with her cape’s hooks. As she unclasped it, he saw not the black and gold kefta of the winter fete, but a milk-white nightgown, simple and unadorned. She gave a weak smile, and shivered. The cold air sliced through her like a knife, and she drew the cape more tightly around her shoulders.

“Come on.” Nikolai murmured, gently throwing his arm around her. With not even a whisper of protest, he helped her toward his tent. Flipping the flaps back, he nudged her inside. Once more, to his eyes, the ornate and redundant heavy tapestries kept the light filtering in at only a weak trickle. The warm Fjerdan pelts were thrown on his set of armchairs upholstered in rich emerald velvet, between which stood an ice cold samovar. With Isaak retired for the night, Nikolai had let things slide a little in his absence. He busied himself with making tea as Alina let her cape drop to the floor in a puddle of ink-black silk and corecloth. Unknown to her, light wreathed her skin and caused her body to glow much in the way fireflies did. She examined the tapestries hanging on the walls of his tent with gentle, prodding fingers. Silence hung over them, crowding in at the edges much like the shadows that pooled about in the tent’s far corners. Nikolai examined his bundle of leaves and let them set about steeping. Raising his head again, he caught Alina’s gaze stuck on the tapestry he ’ d commissioned - the tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, cursed to wander eternally through the underworld until the lord of death would be kind enough to let Orpheus guide his lover from the cold and dark of the world below. He had honestly no idea why at the time he’d commissioned it. The artist, while an excellent weaver, had given Eurydice white hair and a gold gown.

For saint’s sake, Orpheus wasn’t blonde either.

Nikolai shrugged and returned to his tea making, while Alina cocked her head to one side.

“Who are they?” She asked, tapping the tapestry he’d just been examining. Nikolai sniffed, and finally seated himself on one of the two armchairs. His fingers dipped into the drawer of the samovar’s table, and he began fiddling with the bag of gears he’d been working on the day he’d been sent to take Alina east.

“Orpheus and Eurydice.” He replied, finally.

Alina raised a brow. “I didn’t learn Greek myths.” She answered, and crossed her arms. In this low light, the white of her nightgown made her look more ghostly than mortal. Nikolai sighed, and returned to his tinkering.

“Orpheus was a mortal man who, given a lyre by Apollo that made it impossible for man nor beast to resist his music, fell in love with a woman named Eurydice. They were both very happily married, until one day Eurydice was dancing with a group of Nymphs, got bitten by a snake and died instantly.”

Nikolai paused in his tinkering to fish out two tea glasses, and made Alina a cup of tea exactly as she liked it - a splash of milk and a hint of sugar. Alina accepted the glass and sipped it wanly, scrunching up her nose. “Sorry.” She apologised quickly. “I’ve been struggling with food… lately.” She winced and scratched the back of her neck. “My powers…” She gestured weakly to the antlers sticking from her skin, and pressed her knuckles to her lips.

“Fucking hell.” She added shortly. “I think…” Tears blossomed in her eyes. “Either I’ll make it through whatever the Darkling’s planned for our wretched little crossing tomorrow, or I’ll die tonight. I’ve still not decided.”

She looked at him then, her eyes dark and wide with an animalistic fear - the kind of glance a creature caught in a trap gave its potential saviour. Nikolai’s brows furrowed and he placed the glass of tea in his hand down onto the table. Standing up, he coaxed the glass from her hand and found that her palm was bleeding from the jagged edges of her grip.

“Alina…” He breathed, touching her cheek. “Why didn’t you have Zoya or Genya tell me…?”

“They didn’t know!” Alina burst out, closing her wounded fingers into fists. She ducked her head and looked down at the rug and rush strewn floor. “I didn’t want them to know. I didn’t…” She broke off again, and pressed her hands to her temples. Blood dribbled down her cheek, and she curled inwards on herself, pressing her chin to her chest.

“I can’t be what you need.” She breathed. “I can’t be what anyone needs.” With all the effort of a dam breaking, Alina’s legs wobbled and she collapsed. Nikolai’s hands reached out and grasped her tight, one hand snaking up into her hair while the other steadied her back. Pressing her face into his shoulder, Nikolai ran his fingers through her curls as Alina sobbed without remorse. They were the kind of sobs that wracked her entire body and frame, with the sick gasps of someone pushed too far over the edge into the dark. Nikolai merely held her tight and ran his hands through her hair. He could do little else, even as his heart tore and cracked under the strain of his lover’s pain.

Oh yes. He thought, brushing his lips against the crown of Alina’s head. I love her. I love her with all of the fire and fury this world has to possess, and I would destroy myself for her.

“You are exactly what I need. You always have been.” He murmured against the shell of her ear, tucking himself to be partially coiled around her. Nothing would touch her as long as he was here. “And for what anyone else needs?” He tilted her chin up, glancing down into those fathomless depths of the rich earthen brown of her eyes, and smiled.

“Fuck them. They don’t need you. They don’t deserve you.” He breathed. “The Darkling wishes to make you his Saint, the Apparat his martyr, my father his little ornament. But you are none of those things, sunshine . And you never will be, unless you wish it so.”

Alina hiccuped, and sniffled.

“You say that, and yet…” Her hand snaked up to the antlers, smearing her blood across the surface. She glanced at him again with those widened eyes, and Nikolai sighed, gently reaching for her hand. He pressed his lips to the bloodied skin, and Alina’s eyes widened, but she did not pull back.

“Yet, you are still wounded. Still someone else’s.” His hands dropped from hers and reached up to the antlers. His fingers skimmed the chilled bone, searching for a hinge, a catch. But David’s work was seamless.

“But this will not be your shackle for long, sweetheart.”

Alina swallowed and looked at him long and hard.

“How can you be so bloody sure?” She whispered.

“Morozova made more than one amplifier. There is another.” He lifted her hand and pressed his thumb and second finger around the expanse of her wrist, which made Alina’s skin prickle with gooseflesh, albeit welcome. “The Darkling contracted a notorious privateer to find it.” His expression was turning wickedly charming, and Alina felt her heart skip in her chest.

“You…?” She whispered.

“Who else?” He murmured, touching her cheek again. “Come west with me, Alina. Leave Ravka behind. As a member of my crew, you would be honoured. Be amongst fellows such as yourself. Grisha. Orphans. Outcasts . We could put a head start on the Darkling, get the sea whip before he even thinks to follow you. Return to Ravka, and…” His ringed hand cupped her other cheek, and she felt the cold sting of the gold.

“...Claim the throne of Ravka. There are two thrones on that dias. Think of it, Alina. Us, ruling, justly and fairly. Two outcasts made into the most powerful people of Ravka. Our dynasty would be eternal. Endless.”

Alina’s eyes widened. She could see it as easily as he described it. And, for the first time in her short life, she didn’t feel fear about such a momentous change. It felt right . Welcome, like she’d felt when she’d figured out how to call the light willingly. Now, she would be stronger than what even the Darkling could offer. He’d called her his Queen, yes, but that had been in a place of subservience. Now, it was an equal partnership being laid at her feet.

“Yes.” Alina breathed, her eyes widening. Without thinking, she brushed her lips against Nikolai’s in a chaste kiss, and pulled back, shock colouring her cheeks. The look Nikolai gave here was devilish, sinful. With a smirk, he cupped her cheeks once more and brought his lips down upon hers. The crash of his cracked lips against her raw ones was not unwelcome, and she smelt his scent of brandy and sea salt against her nostrils as his lips melded effortlessly against hers. Distantly, she felt him pull back, only to lay open-mouthed kisses down the expanse of her throat. His fingers pushed aside the buttons of her foppish and conservative nightgown’s collar, and she heard his voice softly murmur something.

“Tell me to stop.” He breathed.

“Don’t.” She replied. This was all moving so fast, so suddenly. But unlike with the Darkling, who had been all take with nothing given back, this was warm and welcoming. Nikolai gave and ensured none of her was left wanting. She felt his hands skim down her back, lifting her, and her head lolled back. Her hands skimmed up the back of his tunic and fisted in the seams of his shoulders as they fitted together. The height made for some awkwardness, but Alina’s back was soon sinking into the expanse of the featherbed mattress topping Nikolai’s cot.

She quickly lost herself to the passion of the moment, and when bliss came, it was as welcome and filling as she had always read about in the stories Ana Kuya had told her were for older girls. But, as Alina lay tucked against Nikolai’s chest, his arm over her stomach and lips pressed into her shoulder, she realised that this was what love was about. The horrors of the world were far easier to handle when one was given the rock solid support of a lover.

Which, Alina knew as she drifted off into that calm and endless post coital bliss, she had with her fox prince.

End of chapter 10.

#harriet rambles #nikolai lantsov #shadow and bone #alina starkov #nikolina #fic: I don't want to set the world on fire

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sihasah · 10 months ago

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Cracking the Zip Code Conundrum: A Deep Dive into the Numerical World of 000000

In the vast landscape of zip codes, one particular sequence stands out for its uniqueness – zip code 000000. This seemingly simple combination of six zeroes has sparked curiosity and intrigue among postal enthusiasts and data analysts alike. But what exactly does zip code 000000 represent? Is it a real location, a placeholder, or something else entirely? https://sihasah.com/cracking-the-zip-code-conundrum-a-deep-dive-into-the-numerical-world-of-000000/

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rahrahrahweregoingtosmashtheoiks · 2 years ago

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So I’m at a friends birthday and I love him a lot but he is FANCY and so are all of his friends. the dress code on the invite said ‘overdressed’ and my first instinct was deep panic and OMG I guess I have to buy something new!!

and I shared this conundrum with a friend who was like ‘nah just wear all black’. And honestly I didn’t have the time or mental energy to do anything else so I am wearing a black dress with black boots and some nice jewellery. This dress is from Topshop and I’ve had it for AT LEAST 8 years.

I step through the door of this super fancy celeb party, where the dress code is ‘overdressed’ and… every single person here in this entire room, bar maybe 3, is wearing plain black. Obviously big obvious designer brands are tacky and I hadn’t expected that but I expected maybe.. glitter?? But no. All black.

I’ve cracked the code people!!! Feel self conscious that you might be under dressed at a party?? Wear all back!! I am INITIATED!!! Il never go back!!! Thank you Topshop dress which cost about £20 in like 2014. You have done it again.

I spend £97 on dinner with different friends before I even arrived at this party but that’s neither here nor there. I saved. I have high disposable income but working class lineage and that’s ok!! Because we wear all black!!

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3dotsdesign · 1 year ago

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The Algorithmic Maze: Navigating the Impact of Social Media on Digital Marketing

The social media game has changed. Gone are the days of blasting out generic posts to a wide audience. Now, complex algorithms hold the key to reaching your target market and building meaningful connections. But don't despair! This guide will crack the code of these algorithms, revealing their impact on digital marketing and empowering you to navigate the ever-evolving landscape. Get ready to unlock the secrets to boosting engagement, maximizing reach, and building a thriving online community - all within the algorithmic maze!

The social media landscape is constantly evolving, and at the heart of this evolution lie complex algorithms that curate what users see. For digital marketers, understanding these algorithms and their impact is crucial for success.

Personalized Engagement: Algorithms favour content deemed relevant and engaging for individual users. This presents a golden opportunity to tailor messages and visuals to specific audiences, fostering deeper connections and boosting brand loyalty.

Content is King (More Than Ever): Gone are the days of generic posts reaching broad audiences. High-quality, engaging content now reigns supreme. Videos, interactive elements, and user-generated content are prioritized, requiring marketers to shift their focus towards authentic and captivating stories.

The Reach Conundrum: While algorithms enhance personalization, organic reach has often taken a hit. Businesses may need to leverage paid advertising strategies to ensure wider visibility and target specific demographics. Understanding platform-specific nuances and campaign optimization methods is essential.

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Algorithms are constantly evolving, making adaptability a key skill. Staying informed about platform updates, analysing data, and experimenting with different formats are crucial for navigating the ever-changing algorithmic landscape.

Building Community: Algorithms value authentic interactions. Fostering genuine connections with your audience through organic conversations, influencer partnerships, and community building activities can significantly impact your reach and engagement.

Transparency and Ethics: As algorithms become more opaque, transparency and ethical considerations become paramount. Clearly communicate brand values, avoid misleading content, and prioritize user privacy to build trust and avoid potential algorithm penalties.

Embrace the Data: Utilize analytics tools to understand user behaviour and preferences. Analyse engagement metrics and adjust your strategies to align with what resonates with your target audience. This data-driven approach helps you create content that thrives within the algorithmic ecosystem.

Think Long-Term: While chasing trends can be tempting, building a solid brand identity and community takes time and dedication. Focus on creating long-term value through consistent high-quality content, genuine interactions, and a clear understanding of your target audience.

By understanding the impact of social media algorithms and adapting your strategies accordingly, digital marketers can unlock the full potential of these powerful platforms. Remember, the key lies in embracing personalization, creating engaging content, and building authentic connections with your target audience. The algorithmic maze may be complex, but with the right approach, it can lead to a thriving digital presence.

#branding #marketing #digital marketing

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endermen-impasta · 1 year ago

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The Codee Conundrums

-- The new Codee ref sheet. He now has more than one outfit and you have a reference on his seal markings. :D anyways, you know what that means! --

Fun Facts About The Amber Alert AU:

-- Codee could have a huge profecy that he has a big role to fill, or something important to be in charge of. He could know about this role around the age of five maybe even three years old. He always told himself that he HAD to be that version of himself, the all knowing helpful person, no matter what. It never felt right, though Codee thought he couldn't out run his responsibility. That was until he finally got in contact with the tutrles. After a while he decided to abandon his vision, his set role, and change his own path; Thanks to Mikey telling Codee that they changed the future just by having hope.

-- Draxum decided to start co parenting with Big Mama before meeting the turtles around a year or two. Codee would've been at least 14 years old, which probably drifted Draxum's choice to "tolerate" Mikey whenever the orange clad wanted to make him family. The reason Draxum tried to be a present parental figure would've been because of Big Mama. She loved Codee dearly so I think Big Mama would just force Draxum into that for child support.

-- Big Mama never looked at Codee because she knew he had a big amount of power. Big Mama looked at Codee for someone to teach, or maybe take over her business if she ever were to pass. At first she looked at Codee as a pupil, a student, but after a few months Big Mama started to think differently about Codee. She started to see him as more of a her own child than someone to teach. Though Big Mama knew the seal placed on Codee was to with hold his own powerful mystic powers, she never looked at it as someone who can make her money or fame.

-- Codee's sealing spell is periment. For the first few years (( mainly around 4 to 5 years )) the seal is at it's most powerful level. After a while it wears off but the markings stay on the person's skin/fur/scales. For the first few years trying to push against the container of the seal will take physical effects on the body. Spreading cracks, inflammation, and sometimes cuts when pushed too much. It takes a person's mystic powers from 100% to only 0% really fast. A way to go against the sealing spell is to use some sort of support or conductor to get the mystic energy out safely. (( Uping the mystic power from 0% to a mere 16% or 37% depending on what you use )) The item needed to help is something that can calm the nerves but also draw into the ground.

-- When Codee is trying to meditate, see into the future on command, or trying to activate his own mystic powers he will start playing a song he knows REALLY well on the violin. Sometimes he can start dream walking into another Hamato's or family members dreams, which can be very confusing for Codee because he can't tell the difference between having a dream crossover and having a vision unless the person he is dreaming walking with starts speaking directly to him.

-- Codee and Mikey are the most powerful out of all of their siblings when it comes to mystic / ninpo abilities. While Mikey has more mystic power with physical strength and contacting dead family members; Codee has power in mental strength and contacting with people he loves that's alive. They are polar opposites to each other - Mikey is hyper and sunshine-y while Codee is calm, collected, moody, and quiet. Even though they are opposite to each other, they love each other. Opposites attract each other. (( NO TESCT - They love each other as siblings not lovers ))

-- Codee keeps his hand made bombs inside his two pants pockets. The pocket closet to his reach is full of smoke bombs, explosives, and confetti poppers while his light bombs, blinding sparks, and deafening ex is on the bottom. This is because the bombs in his upper pocket are eaiser to make than the others.

-- Codee's bomb shells are made out of the glass he melts and shapes. Whenever he throws the circular glass container it breaks, and whenever the glass breaks (( even a crack )) it goes off. That's why Codee keeps the bombs in his pockets instead of around his chest. He doesn't wanna be blinded by accident.

-- The markings that glow on Codee glow brighter when he uses his mystic / ninpo powers. The physical form of his mystic / ninpo is very bright, sometimes burning people who decide to get in the way / touch it. Because of this Codee tries to avoid using his mystic / ninpo when around any moth yokai / mutants.

-- The Aussie shop inside of CH.2 is a store specifically for items found only in Australia. Jojo is the third shop keeper; being raised in the shop and taking over. He is around his 30's has two twin infants and is married to a wife. Most people in New York don't go into the shop because they don't "like" the items Jojo sells. Though when someone walks in to buy something it does pay the bills. Jojo's full name is Jordan Krizzy Brooks and his twin kids are named Summer and Poppy. (( Noth female ))

-- The first few years of Codee living with Big Mama he was completely silent. He wouldn't speak at all, which sometimes confused Big Mama on if he could even talk. He would often hide any injuries from Big Mama, sneak around to for food, and try to stay out of Big Mama's sight (( due to his experience in the Foot Clan )) He didn't understand that Big Mama wasn't going to hand him. Also, the first time Codee seen Big Mama in her actual appearance he got scared and ran away. It took five hours to find Codee again.

Like these headcannons? look at this

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countlessrealities · 2 years ago

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Technical machine character development questions || Accepting !

@dynamoprotocol sent: whirlwind — what’s one thing that makes your muse really confused? (Rick)

There aren't many things Rick can't wrap his head around. Between his exceptional intelligence and how single-minded he can get when he decides that he wants to do something, he has been able to crack the most complicated conundrums of the universe. Even some of the ones who were supposed to have no solution.

Yet, for all his genius, there are still things that manage to confuse him, and the often are ones that most people find quite simple to grasp, if not straight out obvious. Ways of saying and certain grammar rules are an example, but there's more.

Something that almost never fails to confuse Rick, at least to some extent, are units of measurement. Having travelled around the multiverse so much, he has worked with different species and different versions of the same species across galaxies and dimensions. Just as for languages, the way they measure things are different every time and in every place. Considering this, it's understandable why has troubles remembering how many centimetres make a metre, or that there's another unit between kilograms and tons, or what water's boiling point in both Celsius and Fahrenheits. At times he even use the wrong unit (for example litres instead of kilos).

Rick might be the smartest man of the universe, but memory isn't exactly his strong suit.

However, since he hates being called out on his mistakes, especially the most stupid ones, he has coded and uploaded in his cybernetic eye a little program that gives him the right answer every time he has to deal with units of measurement. These days, he mostly uses it for Earthen ones, but the database contains all the types he has encountered during his forty years of adventuring and dimension hopping.

In spite of that, you can still catch him messing up, especially when he's in the middle of a rant or drunk off his ass.

Unbeknown to him, Morty is very much aware of this little issue and, having learnt the hard way that making fun of Rick leads to nothing useful or pleasant, he has taken up to correct the mistakes the scientist makes in his notes or database behind his back. The last thing he wants is to get pulverised or worse because Rick has confused seconds with volts.

#[ headcanons :: c137 Rick ]#dynamoprotocol #[[ for all his genius Rick can be really dumb xD ]]#[[ he is the smartest person in the room ]]#[[ until he's NOT xD ]]#;; queue #[ ooc :: mun's headcanons ]

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randomness-is-my-order · 5 months ago

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This prompt seriously fired my neurons into all sorts of zigzagging ways and I am interpreting this a bit differently, I think, but I couldn’t stop writing once I started, so!

Here is the story! Hope you enjoy!

_________

THE EPSTEAN CONUNDRUM

April, 2075.

That day, Planetary TV, the first ever interstellar news channel, was watched by almost the entirety of earth’s population. Snarky teenagers sat huddled in groups, their smartphones held in shaky hands. Adults congregated in their workplace cafeterias, the overhead television screens inculcating an acute anticipation within them. Even toddlers sat on living room sofas, their parents holding their hands, the screens alight before them.

The oldest and the youngest of the world waited with bated breaths and watched the popular reporter Katie Stones cover the launch of the automated battle starships that would soon be propelled into deep space.

“The Epteans, our fearsome alien adversaries, have terrorised our near-earth orbits for a decade,” Katie spoke with her trademark fierceness. “They have dropped their explosives on inhabited lands and tried to contaminate our water sources. They have destroyed our communication lines and most recently, they have gone and abducted several of our people with their infiltrating orbiters! This is space terrorism at its most cruel. We humans cannot pull our punches anymore. The finest minds of our world have come together and created a legion of automated battle machines. Today, we make a stand, citizens. Today, we fight for humanity!”

United against a common enemy, mankind cheered together as their screens were filled with the grounds of various launch centres. The state-of-the-art technology was plainly obvious and after a decade of relentless space skirmishes, humans felt hope blossom within their hearts.

The ignition began, the fuel burnt, the rockets launched together from all parts of the world–and amidst this cacophony, mankind finally found peace once more.

Or at least, that was what global media would have them believe.

March, 2100.

It was a peaceful morning within NASA’s Communication Satellite Station when the message was first received with startling clarity. It was a foreign sender–none of the American satellites or the ISS had been recognised by their systems–and one that had recently entered their radio telescope’s range. For Dr. Linda, who was seated before a computer screen with her daily cup of coffee, the one singular word suddenly materialised with ominous implications.

“HELP,” it read.

Of course, Linda spent the next two minutes making sure her eyes were not receiving her–she had indulged in her caffeine intake more than usual that day–and after she was certain that this truly was a pointed, deliberately sent plea for help, she quickly informed the higher-ups of this development.

A group of professionals were put to work right after and soon, everyone within the Station had heard of a very surprising discovery:

An Epstean spacecraft had been the sender of the signal.

Their interstellar enemies that had abandoned the space war that they themselves had instigated against Earth. Twenty years, and not a peep had been heard from them. Mankind’s battle-crafts had been successful–overwhelmingly so, if the Epstean’s lack of communication thereafter was any indication.

But now, there was an Epstean spaceship at their doorstep, knocking for help, insistently sending them messages.

The tables had truly turned.

“They sent it in English?” Firoz Alam, the head of the Interplanetary Affairs department asked with some mirth, looking around the table of highly ranked professionals. The round table conference was being held a mere hour after the message was first received, an embargo instantly placed on all news outlets and a strict restriction on any outflow of information.

“Those arrogant fuckers always sent in cryptic codes before–with convoluted keys to crack them. They knew English by then but being cordial is apparently not amongst their social values.”

“It is now,” Commander Smith said pointedly, his usually smooth voice laced with some derision. “When they need our help, look how their egos fall.”

“Gentlemen, we have more pressing matters to discuss than the Epstean and their hypocritical ways,” Sasha Jones, the head of space security, interrupted with a sharp look. Clearing her throat, she went on, “We have run the signal under several tests and have been monitoring the alien spacecraft since its entrance into our geostationary earth orbit. This spacecraft is clearly occupied by an Epstean or several and they have not yet revealed their identity beyond what is obvious. There are several scenarios that could have led to this outcome but I do think the most plausible case is that one of the Epstean’s deep-space expeditions went awry and the craft that we now have amongst us contains the survivors. The ones desperate enough to seek our refuge.”

The Epsteans lived more than four light-years away from Earth, its planetary system based around their second closest star, Proxima Centauri. Their planet was boorishly named EP-786 by humans and their creative name-coining intellectuals and they were summarily dubbed the Epsteans after the first time the two civilizations made contact.

It was around the time travel at light speed had just evolved into functionality and finding foreign spacecrafts was common before official treaties and a unified space law were introduced to contain the chaos. As such, the Epstean spacecraft was trespassing into Earth’s bounds and it was entirely up to humans to decide what to do against it. Considering the time it took to travel from EP-786 to Earth, the aliens inside the spaceship could have stranded in space for atleast four years.

No wonder they had stooped so low as to send a message in English.

“Send them back,” Commander Smith said matter-of-factly. “Give them fuel if that’s what they want but allowing them to land? I am against it.”

“We do not know what they want,” Sasha said, her voice placating. She knew Commander Smith wasn’t usually an unreasonable fellow but his hate for the Epstean was personal. He had lost his brother in the abductions during the space war and those kinds of wounds never healed. Death would have been a kinder tragedy to bear. The uncertainty that so many had been plagued with was far more cruel.

“Have they said anything besides “HELP”?” Darcy, one of NASA’s veteran astronauts and a foremost officer in human affairs, spoke up. “Have we sent them back any signal ourselves?”

Firoz nodded his head, “Just that we have received their correspondence. Standard procedure, you understand. They have not yet shown their vocabulary outside of their first message. Might we send them a dictionary upstairs?”

“This is not the time, Firoz,” Sasha said. “Diplomacy is supposed to be your thing. Acting like a teenager with a grudge doesn’t suit your rank.”

“I have been sending the Epstean meticulously worded messages for twenty five years, Sasha,” Firoz said with an almost huff. “And their response? Silence. I am allowed a petty moment or two.”

“Suit yourself,” Sasha responded, tempted to roll her eyes. The situation was so ridiculous and so conducive to making them smug, she knew this couldn’t be helped. “But our main question is how do we navigate this matter. I assume the Epsteans will eventually relay their needs. But if, suppose, one of them is injured, what should we consider doing? Their anatomy is fundamentally different than ours and we have very little information to help us aid them, anyway.”

“Shouldn’t they have a medic on-board?” Commander Smith asked. “As far as I remember, there was never an incident during the war when they had to retreat due to casualities. It was always because their machinery was harmed beyond salvage or we had destroyed their attack starships. I remember, at the time, my squadron leader theorizing that these Epsteans have no concept of medical treatment. Their bodies either recover naturally or they just... die.”

“That is in line with what we know of them through some of the things they shared back then,” Firoz said thoughtfully. “If a fatal wound isn’t the problem–”

Sasha made a concerned noise and they all looked at her.

Tearing her gaze away from her laptop screen, she said, “Another signal was received almost two minutes ago. This one said “we have an emergency” in all caps.”

“Emergency?” Commander Smith echoed dubiously. “The Epsteans? What kind of emergency are we talking? Could it be that someone is dying up there after all?”

“What if they are rogues?” Darcy put forth. “There were a few deserters amongst their ranks, weren’t there? I recall Planetary TV making a big show of it. Those Epsteans were chased by their own kind relentlessly and later punished according to their laws.”

“What kind of moron would think we humans would give them any different treatment?” Firoz asked, scoffing in disbelief. “Do the Epsteans in the spacecraft believe we will receive them with open arms and mercy?”

“Maybe it is not as grievous as any of that,” Sasha said, typing something on her keyboard. “Maybe they are just trying to hold our attention and get us to help them? It could be that they are out of whatever helps with their sustenance. They always wanted to mine our land for resources. It was and is a well-accepted hypothesis that they need some kind of metallic ore for survival.”

“In that case, the craft does not need to land on Earth,” Darcy said, glancing sideways at Commander Smith. “We can send our astronauts in a well-equipped ship and they can establish a more elaborate communication with the Epstean. If some metal or fuel is all they need, I agree that sending them right back is the safest path.”

“But not the cleverest,” Firoz said, his eyes gaining a faraway look. “I’ve been thinking, Dr. Sasha.”

Sasha set her laptop aside for a moment and regarded Firoz with both suspicion and interest, “Yes?”

“You said we know very little about the Epstean and their anatomy,” Firoz said, his voice level. “So why not use this as an opportunity to rectify that?”

A bout of silence spread over the table. The ones who had been merely observing so far–less-ranked officers and managing personnel–exchanged loaded looks amongst themselves while Sasha’s eyes narrowed at the implications of Firoz’s idea.

“What exactly are you suggesting, Mr. Amal?” Sasha asked archly.

“We study the Epstean,” Firoz said simply. “No more, no less.”

“By forcing them?” Darcy asked what they all wanted to.

“Not necessarily,” Firoz replied, aware that everyone was viewing him in a less than stellar light. “It could be a mutually beneficial exchange. Our help in return for our most excelling researchers and doctors and scientists getting a chance to satiate their curiosities regarding the Epsteans.”

“And if they say no?” Sasha asked.

“Then so do we,” Firoz replied.

“I can’t approve of this,” Sasha said, though she did have a contemplative mien about her. “But I would like to hear everyone else’s opinion. Commander Smith?”

“I think it is a plan worth considering,” said Smith, his hands entwined on the pristine white table before him. “We may never again get an opportunity like this. The Epsteans are unstable. They have not responded to our proposals towards a more permanent peace. Give it another decade and they may rise up once more. Knowing of their anatomical strengths and weaknesses will only benefit us should we come under attack again. And it will help us develop a... deterrant for any future conflicts, won’t it?”

“But the ethics–”

“We can’t apply human standards to the alien,” Firoz cut in. “Did they consider “ethics” before they bombed our settlements?”

Sasha quietened. When it came to those seated in this room, she was the one who had suffered the least at the hands of the Epstean. Her family was affluent and had the connections, during the war, to keep them safe. She still remembered attending her last years of college, hearing of tragedies secondhand, the explosives never reaching her vicinity. Even the aliens knew not to mess with the human elite.

“I think Firoz’s idea may have merit,” Darcy said, chewing on the thought. “But I suggest we assemble a board of professionals to organise a timeline that will dictate how we approach this unique contact with the Epsteans. Some kind of protocol. They might be aliens but they are still people. Besides, if we don’t operate by human standards, what good is our humanity?”

That brought a mildly twisted look to Firoz’s face but he seemed to have sobered up a little.

“I never quite liked the whole ‘Atiti Devo Bhava’ philosophy my country preached,” Firoz said, scrunching his nose. “But I suppose it is a valuable ideal to follow.”

“Doesn’t it mean something like the guest is God?” Darcy asked, blinking.

“Well, God might be a stretch,” Commander Smith said. “But we may treat them like very distant cousins whom we might hate but still play nice with.”

Sasha heaved a small sigh. If this plan got Commander Smith as well as Firoz to be more amicable towards the Epstean, she was inclined to vote for it.

After a few more rounds of discussion and necessary back-and-forth, the board carried out a vote and the plan to allow the Epstean spacecraft to land for further research on their bodies was set into motion.

The communication signal was sent to the spacecraft with clear instructions and a brief overview of what the human expectations were. Oddly enough, the Epsteans did not bother responding before starting their descent towards the ground. The news of this was not allowed to pass beyond the tight-knit group at the top–globally, this included the foremost politicians and the leading scientists–but an allowance was made for all the retired personnel who had contributed towards Earth’s victory in the war–as if their successors were sending them a “thank you” message. They could learn of this recent news, then point at the helpless Epsteans and have a small laugh.

One of these space war veterans was Ex-Commander Matthew, who came to the headquarters, charging in, demanding clearance. Sasha and the rest permitted his entrance, knowing how crucial he had been during the war. He was a hero for their world, one who they had all hailed high twenty five years ago.

He did not say anything upon arrival. Commander Smith tried to start conversation but Matthew, dressed in his slacks and polo t-shirt, would not speak. He watched all the proceedings with a keen eye, a shifty air around him. Everyone let him be, either getting the hint or being scared away by his silent glares.

It took six hours for the Epstean spacecraft to land in NASA’s spaceforce base. Unlike the launch of their battle-crafts, no one but a select few watched the landing. Sasha stood in the viewing gallery, wondering how this would change the course of interplanetary conflicts forever.

The alien spaceship before them was in pitiful shape, clearly at the last of its lifetime. The boosters sputtered and gave out entirely, the landing more than a bit bumpy. No one approached the craft. Radio communication was switched to verbal transmissions. A loudspeaker was also relaying the same message nearby.

“EXIT THE SHIP.”

“LOSE POSSESSION OF ALL WEAPONS.”

Commander Smith gripped the binoculars in his hand, raising them to his eyes. Sasha watched the zoomed in video feed on her tablet, Darcy and Firoz on each of her shoulders.

“Ready?” Firoz asked her.

Sasha nodded firmly.

The safety hatch opened up with a cloud of smoke. It obscured the entire area around the craft and a lone figure came stumbling out.

The first alarm bell rang when coughing was heard.

Epsteans did not cough.

The second was the silhouette that was familiar.

Epsteans were not humanoid.

The third was the voice, loud and desperate and unmistakably human, that said, “We are in danger!”

With a gust of wind, the smoke cleared and a man in his fifties, tall and worryingly thin, stood alone on the landing pad, screeching at them.

Officers stationed on the grounds rushed towards him once ordered, gathering his fainting form in their arms and they hauled him into the building on a gurney.

“... What?” Sasha said in a terrified whisper. “What does this mean?”

Commander Smith didn’t wait to respond. He rushed towards the medical facilities. Did he think this man was his brother? No, that couldn’t be. The Epsteans would never let their captives go.

“We are in danger,” Darcy repeated the warning, gulping. “Why was he in there? This does not make any sense!”

Firoz frowned at his boots, shaken to his core, “What the fuck is going on?! How did a human come in contact with an Epstean spacecraft?”

“We need to talk to him,” Sasha said, dizzy, walking out of the room, knowing she would be followed.

They reached the room where the man was being operated on. Commander Smith was standing stiffly outside, a grave expression on his face.

“We have found the identity of this person,” Commander Smith said. Lips pursed, he continued, “Henry Cain. He went missing twenty six years ago. He was thought to be abducted by the Epsteans.”

Darcy rested a hand on the Commander’s arm, knowing that he had only been hoping when he ran to meet the man.

“Was he sent back by the Epsteans?” Sasha asked. “Did he say anything?”

“No,” the Commander answered. “We are in the dark. Completely.”

Matthew had followed them there, a hard look on his face. He seemed to be deep in thought and Firoz was tempted to wheedle him into talking but the doctor exited the room that moment and informed them that Henry was in a stable condition and would be able to converse in a few minutes.

With steeled breaths and curiosity burning, they entered the room.

Henry was horribly emaciated. His entire body was littered with peculiar scars and marks. There was a lifelessness in his eyes that haunted the occupants of the room.

“We are in danger,” Henry said and Sasha finally allowed herself to accept that the “we” in Henry’s message were humans, not the Epsteans.

“How are we in danger, Henry?” Saha asked gently.

Henry showed no recognition at his name being used. He stared at her hollowly, his lips dried and torn, “They are coming. They are coming to kill us all.”

“Who is they?” Firoz asked and after a pause, he added, “The Epsteans?”

Henry shuddered in his position, crawling up and burrowing himself behind pillows and blankets. From behind the curtain of his sheets, he looked them all in the eye, his voice the mad ramble of someone who had already seen the future.

“They will kill humanity.”

“God,” Matthew spoke for the first time since he had shown up, walking tentatively towards Henry, his face crumpling completely. “What have the Epsteans done to you? What have we done to you?”

Commander Smith frowned at Matthew, “What do you mean “we”? Matthew, what the hell is going on here?”

Matthew turned to look Commander Smith in the eyes before chuckling. The awful sound soon turned into full blown laughter, hysterical first, and then profoundly sorrowful.

“Our sins have caught up to us, it seems,” Matthew said, turning his gaze towards Henry once more. “The Epsteans–they never abducted anyone. How could they? They did not have the capacity to land on Earth. Not discreetly, in any case.”

“You’re lying,” Commander Smith said faintly, imploring the rest with his eyes. “That does not make any sense. We all know what happened. Those filthy Epsteans–they kidnapped humans worldwide. They kidnapped my brother–”

“We kidnapped your brother,” Matthew interrupted with another broken laugh. “Remember how we said our scientists had developed completely automated battle-crafts able to go toe-to-toe with Epstean warships? Yeah, that was all bullshit. Those crafts we sent to war? They were manned.”

Commander Smith covered his mouth, realisation dawning on all of them with breathtaking clarity.

“Those that were abducted... They... You sent them?” Firoz asked, sounding like he didn’t ever want an answer.

Matthew nodded, a self deprecating smile on his face, “We didn’t need trained soldiers. Just average, competent people able to operate the machinery. Just sending people from the military would be destabilising–”

“Bullshit!” Commander Smith roared and lunged at Matthew, pushing him into a wall by his collar. Anger and grief swirled within him as he yelled, “You sent civilians to war! You sent them to die. You never had any contingency plans for the battle-crafts. The trip was always meant to be one-way. They were fodder for you, weren’t they?”

“No nation wanted their armies weakened,” Matthew bit out, struggling against Smith’s hold. “That was our only option.”

Firoz laughed incredulously, his reality shattered within the space of twelve hours. “You made us believe the Epsteans were the villains. The monsters who took away our people. But it was you scumbags all along!”

Sasha trembled in her place, completely at a loss at how to handle this situation. She looked at Henry, still cowering in the sheets, mumbling warnings over and over. How had this man survived the journey? What had happened to him over the years? If he had survived the final battle, why had he not returned sooner?

“What happened to the rest?” she knelt before Henry and asked, as soothingly as she could.

Henry looked at her, stopping his muttering for a moment, a confused expression on his face. “The rest?”

“Your companions in the battle-crafts?” she urged.

“Oh,” Henry said airily, looking at the ceiling. “They are gone.”

Sasha let out a breath. The room had quietened once more. Commander Smith had heard Henry and now he sat on the edge of the bed, head in his hands. Even Firoz didn’t have a quip to break the tension. Nothing could make this better.

Humanity had not been humane for a while.

“How do they plan to kill us, Henry?” Darcy asked. “What is their strategy?”

Henry’s lips stretched into a chilling smile.

“A virus,” he said, his eyes straying to the myriad of cuts on his arms, his gaze blank. “They made it. After they captured us and studied our bodies. A virus specially designed to kill only humans. And I,” he paused, tears forming in his eyes. “I was sent to spread it.”

Sasha collapsed on the other side of the bed, meeting Firoz’s stunned eyes, and she threw her head back and laughed.

______________________________________

This was a mad three hours. Explains the doomed plot. Anyway, this was super fun and I am gonna do this more often! This is a little inspired by 86 (the anime), so if anyone hasn’t watched it, please do! :))

In the future Mankind sends automated starships to fight an alien enemy for them. The robotic ships never returned, but the aliens eventually stopped attacking. Then one day a badly damaged alien ship was found entering human space, transmitting over and over again, "HELP".

#writing #writers on tumblr #writers #writing prompts #writeblr #writing inspiration #writing prompt #sci fi #space war #interstellar travel #light speed #humans and the depth of their antihumane methods #rimo writes

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fromdevcom · 3 months ago

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Java Mastery Challenge: Can You Crack These 10 Essential Coding Questions? Are you confident in your Java programming skills? Whether you're preparing for a technical interview or simply want to validate your expertise, these ten carefully curated Java questions will test your understanding of core concepts and common pitfalls. Let's dive into challenges that every serious Java developer should be able to tackle. 1. The Mysterious Output Consider this seemingly simple code snippet: javaCopypublic class StringTest public static void main(String[] args) String str1 = "Hello"; String str2 = "Hello"; String str3 = new String("Hello"); System.out.println(str1 == str2); System.out.println(str1 == str3); System.out.println(str1.equals(str3)); What's the output? This question tests your understanding of string pooling and object reference comparison in Java. The answer is true, false, true. The first comparison returns true because both str1 and str2 reference the same string literal from the string pool. The second comparison returns false because str3 creates a new object in heap memory. The third comparison returns true because equals() compares the actual string content. 2. Threading Troubles Here's a classic multithreading puzzle: javaCopypublic class Counter private int count = 0; public void increment() count++; public int getCount() return count; If multiple threads access this Counter class simultaneously, what potential issues might arise? This scenario highlights the importance of thread safety in Java applications. Without proper synchronization, the increment operation isn't atomic, potentially leading to race conditions. The solution involves either using synchronized methods, volatile variables, or atomic classes like AtomicInteger. 3. Collection Conundrum javaCopyList list = new ArrayList(); list.add("Java"); list.add("Python"); list.add("JavaScript"); for(String language : list) if(language.startsWith("J")) list.remove(language); What happens when you run this code? This question tests your knowledge of concurrent modification exceptions and proper collection iteration. The code will throw a ConcurrentModificationException because you're modifying the collection while iterating over it. Instead, you should use an Iterator or collect items to remove in a separate list. 4. Inheritance Insight javaCopyclass Parent public void display() System.out.println("Parent"); class Child extends Parent public void display() System.out.println("Child"); public class Main public static void main(String[] args) Parent p = new Child(); p.display(); What's the output? This tests your understanding of method overriding and runtime polymorphism. The answer is "Child" because Java uses dynamic method dispatch to determine which method to call at runtime based on the actual object type, not the reference type. 5. Exception Excellence javaCopypublic class ExceptionTest public static void main(String[] args) try throw new RuntimeException(); catch (Exception e) throw new RuntimeException(); finally System.out.println("Finally"); What gets printed before the program terminates? This tests your knowledge of exception handling and the finally block. "Finally" will be printed because the finally block always executes, even when exceptions are thrown in both try and catch blocks. 6. Interface Implementation javaCopyinterface Printable default void print() System.out.println("Printable"); interface Showable default void print() System.out.println("Showable"); class Display implements Printable, Showable // What needs to be added here? What must be

added to the Display class to make it compile? This tests your understanding of the diamond problem in Java 8+ with default methods. The class must override the print() method to resolve the ambiguity between the two default implementations. 7. Generics Genius javaCopypublic class Box private T value; public void setValue(T value) this.value = value; public T getValue() return value; Which of these statements will compile? javaCopyBox intBox = new Box(); Box strBox = new Box(); Box doubleBox = new Box(); This tests your understanding of bounded type parameters in generics. Only intBox and doubleBox will compile because T is bounded to Number and its subclasses. String isn't a subclass of Number, so strBox won't compile. 8. Memory Management javaCopyclass Resource public void process() System.out.println("Processing"); protected void finalize() System.out.println("Finalizing"); What's wrong with relying on finalize() for resource cleanup? This tests your knowledge of Java's memory management and best practices. The finalize() method is deprecated and unreliable for resource cleanup. Instead, use try-with-resources or implement AutoCloseable interface for proper resource management. 9. Lambda Logic javaCopyList numbers = Arrays.asList(1, 2, 3, 4, 5); numbers.stream() .filter(n -> n % 2 == 0) .map(n -> n * 2) .forEach(System.out::println); What's the output? This tests your understanding of Java streams and lambda expressions. The code filters even numbers, doubles them, and prints them. The output will be 4 and 8. 10. Serialization Scenarios javaCopyclass User implements Serializable private String username; private transient String password; // Constructor and getters/setters What happens to the password field during serialization and deserialization? This tests your knowledge of Java serialization. The password field, marked as transient, will not be serialized. After deserialization, it will be initialized to its default value (null for String). Conclusion How many questions did you get right? These problems cover fundamental Java concepts that every developer should understand. They highlight important aspects of the language, from basic string handling to advanced topics like threading and serialization. Remember, knowing these concepts isn't just about passing interviews – it's about writing better, more efficient code. Keep practicing and exploring Java's rich features to become a more proficient developer. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, regular practice with such questions helps reinforce your understanding and keeps you sharp. Consider creating your own variations of these problems to deepen your knowledge even further. What's your next step? Try implementing these concepts in your projects, or create more complex scenarios to challenge yourself. The journey to Java mastery is ongoing, and every challenge you tackle makes you a better programmer.

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cleverhottubmiracle · 5 months ago

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Daisuke Kiyomizu knows pottery inside and out. His father was a ceramicist and his grandfather before that. He’s trained to know how long, exactly, to turn a lump of ordinary clay on the wheel in order to transform it into a perfectly shaped plate or bowl; he can glaze said plate or bowl into a glossy dish worthy of a Michelin star restaurant. But while Kiyomizu’s well-honed experience and eagle-eye attention to detail certainly serve him well, one could argue it’s his passion and out-of-the-box thinking that’s brought his Kyoto-based brand, Tokinoha Ceramic Studio, international success. Since launching in 2009 with his wife, Tomoe Kiyomizu, the company has grown from a tiny two-person operation mainly working with wholesale clients, to a beloved part of a city’s culture, with a full-time staff and clients around the world. I first met Kiyomizu and his team one rainy October afternoon at his studio in Kyoto’s Yamashina Ward. The space is serene and airy, with meticulously displayed pottery for sale in the front and several working areas in back. His wife, also a professionally taught potter, takes me and the rest of my group down to a spacious white work room where we learn the art of kintsugi, which involves repairing cracked dishes with powdered gold—thus turning imperfections into the most beautiful part. Afterward, we are ushered upstairs to a “library” of cups, mugs, plates, and bowls representing the many custom dish patterns Kiyomizu has created for a who’s-who of top restaurants around the world—Quince in San Francisco, Jōji in New York City, Kuro Bar in Sydney—through his customized “Siro” program for culinary professionals. There is floor-to-ceiling shelving completely filled with color-coded place settings, and we spend a good 20 minutes marveling over the intricacies of each one. The whole establishment seems like a bustling, happy, well-oiled machine—it’s a well-calibrated medium between having a successful company and artistic fulfillment.This was not always the case. At the start of his career, Kiyomizu tells me later via a Japanese translator on a video call, he struggled to make ends meet by following the traditional wholesale model of retail: artist makes a piece, artist sells a piece to a distributor, artist receives a meager fraction of the profits. So while demand for his work was increasing, he couldn’t keep up with the costs of production while also giving up a major cut of his sales. Breaking out on his own to sell direct-to-consumer, he says, was a big risk and terrifying proposition—but one that more than paid off in the long run, especially after landing his first big order for the opening of the buzzy Kyoto-based restaurant Obase, which was helmed by his wife’s former classmate Hideyuki Obase.Collaborating with one famous chef led to collaborations with other famous chefs, Kiyomizu explains—and suddenly he had a lucrative enterprise on his hands to manage. But this, as many creative professionals will attest, brings about an age-old problem for artists: How does one stay true to their craft and vision and still bring in enough money to comfortably live? It’s a conundrum that hits close to home for ceramicists especially, as their field is famously unprofitable despite its enduring appeal over multiple centuries.Kiyomizu becomes contemplative when I ask him about this and tells me that there’s an unmatchable warmth to dishes that have been made from clay. The beauty of the work enhances the experience of eating and, in turn, makes food taste more delicious. This truth, of course, is fully realized when enjoying a multicourse meal at a high end restaurant (a truffle-coated amuse bouche, no matter how decadent, simply would not be as appealing on a paper plate), but also in the simple moments of eating at home. It’s a lovely thought: Want to take your apple and peanut butter habit to a divine level? Consider placing the fruit on a lovingly wrought ceramic dish and mindfully cutting it into thin slices.Indeed, says Kiyomizu, the pottery industry certainly isn’t going anywhere, but it does need to evolve with modern times. For one, he notes, ceramists should be thinking more about the well-being of their suppliers; super inexpensive clay belies that the people gathering it from the mountains aren’t being paid a livable wage. This means accepting that there’s room for both mass-produced pottery and special, custom-order establishments such as his. This ecosystem of diversity means that there are more jobs (and money) to spread around. It also reflects a need for everyone to pay a bit more along every step of the production chain: Much like anything in our temperamental economy (clothing, food, etc), goods that are too-cheap-too-be-true likely means a real person has suffered in the process of making them.Of course, it also helps if you’re selling something that people feel good about shelling out for—and Kiyomizu is quite skilled at this. Besides simply creating items that are a pleasure to look at and a joy to use (think delightful little plates emblazoned with zodiac signs, colorful cups with thoughtful dents on each side to fit one’s hands, and shapely vases with a subtle ombré of glaze), he has turned Tokinoha into a luxurious product in and of itself. He offers exclusive experiences through hotel partnerships (my kintsugi experience was booked through a stay at Hotel the Mitsui), as well as a selection of private pottery lessons. The studio also boasts a playful café menu for special guests featuring a sort of gustatory trompe-l’œil offering. There are beverages, including a refreshing smoothie made to look like raw, mushy clay, plus a fizzy black soda served in a rock-like receptacle—both of which, I can report, were delicious despite my initial skepticism. Meanwhile, the Tokinoha universe is rapidly growing. This January, Kiyomizu is releasing a book with photographer Masako Nakagawa, which will debut at the FOG Design+Art event in San Francisco. There’s plenty to be excited about—but when I ask what gets him out of bed and to work in the morning, he turns the conversation to my five-year-old daughter, who had wandered out of her bed and into our call. Maybe the cup I repaired in his studio via kintsugi might become my favorite, he muses. Then, in turn, it might become the favorite of my children. That, he says, is his eternal motivation: To create a product that will be passed down between generations and cherished forever—even if you have to fill in a few errant cracks with gold along the way. Source link

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norajworld · 5 months ago

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zov911 · 10 months ago

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Title: Cracking the Code: Proven Online Advertising Tactics for Construction Services In the modern enterprise landscape, digital visibility isn't merely an option - it's a necessity. Yet, for many in traditional industries, the switch from traditional to online advertising can be a maze of unknown territories and confusing jargon. This is particularly true for construction businesses, for whom the rush of industry 4.0 and the digital revolution presents a unique conundrum. But fear not, it’s time to decode the secrets of online advertising for construction services. As the fade-out of old-school billboards and newspaper ads accelerates, online presence and visibility are becoming the heart and soul of the market strategy. In the construction sector, the shift is evident. From simple web presence to leveraging sophisticated digital platforms, the industry is embracing online advertising as a powerful tool to reach potential clients. So, how can construction services crack the infamously complex code of online advertising? Conquering this modern conundrum requires a blend of SEO best practices, keyword research, focused strategies, and compelling storytelling that deeply resonates with the client-vendors-consumers ecosystem. 1. Leverage SEO for Increased Visibility: Search engine optimization (SEO) is not the villain it’s often made out to be. Whenever a client uses Google, Bing, or any search engine to locate construction services, SEO ensures your content, and thus your business, is easily discoverable. Prioritize long-term strategies like content creation, keyword optimization, and back-linking to achieve a stronger SEO presence. 2. Utilize Keyword Research: Every online search begins with a keyword. Optimize your online posts, blogs, and web content with relevant, top-ranking keywords that link back to construction. Tools like Google AdWords Keyword Planner can help pinpoint the most-searched terms related to construction. 3. Embrace Social Media Marketing: Gone are the days when construction business owners shrugged off the relevance of social media. Today, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter can be fertile ground for showcasing projects, connecting with clients, and building a robust online community. 4. Invest in Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: Consider pay-per-click (PPC) advertising for direct marketing. Google AdWords allows construction services to advertise directly to people searching for their specific services. By only charging when someone clicks on your ad, it provides cost-effective precision targeting. 5. Craft Compelling Storylines: Telling your story helps build authenticity and trust in your brand. It could be your company's history, a remarkable project, or customer success stories. Letting your audience in creates engagement and cultivates loyalty. 6. Engage in Content Marketing: Content is king, also in construction advertising. High-quality blog posts, articles, videos, and infographics can generate organic traffic and improve SEO ranking. Ensure your content is informative, engaging, and addresses your audience's problems or needs. 7. Understanding Analytics and Adaptation: Lastly, understanding and analyzing the performance of your ad campaigns is vital. Google Analytics and other tools allow you to monitor and adapt your tactics based on real-time feedback. The construction industry must not only understand the essence of online advertising but also its vital importance in reaching the target audience seamlessly. By understanding and implementing these tactics, construction services can effectively crack the code of online advertising, ushering in an era of digital transformation that is as groundbreaking as their physical construction projects. Case Study: How ABC Construction Services Raised its Profile With Online Advertising Tactics ABC Construction Services is a mid-sized company located in Texas, known for its personalized and affordable services.

However, the company was facing a major challenge - they wanted to grow but were struggling to reach a new clientele through traditional advertising methods. They decided to change gears by leveraging proven online advertising tactics to enhance their visibility. Step 1: Identifying the Target Audience ABC Construction started by clearly defining its target audience online. They realized that property developers, home contractors, and people looking to build their custom homes in Texas and neighboring states were their primary prospects. Step 2: Keyword Research and Optimization Next, ABC enlisted the help of an SEO specialist to perform detailed keyword research, targeting online users seeking construction services. They optimized their website with relevant keywords like "construction services in Texas," "affordable construction," and "custom homes Texas." Step 3: Pay-Per-Click Advertising ABC then employed a Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising platform, Google Ads. Specially curated ads based on keywords were displayed to interested users, driving traffic to the ABC website. This tactic boosted visibility and generated quick results. Step 4: Content Marketing ABC Construction also invested in creating engaging construction-related content for their blog and social media channels. This included tips for home improvements, new construction trends, and DIY ideas, helping to establish ABC as an industry expert and attracting more visitors to their site. Step 5: Social Media Ads Given the visual appeal of construction and architecture, ABC decided to leverage social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook. They invested in sponsored posts and ads showcasing their completed projects, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes work. Results Within six months, ABC Construction saw a remarkable increase in their online presence. Their website traffic increased by 200%, resulting in a sharp increase in inquiries and an estimated 40% uptick in business. Their social media engagement soared, and their content was routinely shared, leading to exponential organic growth. Key Takeaways This case study illustrates efficacious online advertising tactics for construction services. To summarize, here's a roadmap based on ABC's successful strategy: 1. Identify and understand your target audience. 2. Perform keyword research and optimize your website accordingly. 3. Utilize PPC advertising for rapid results. 4. Create engaging, valuable content relevant to your audience. 5. Leverage social media platforms for showcasing your work and engaging with potential clients. Therefore, implementing a strategic online advertising approach can assist construction services in cracking the code to substantial growth, just like how ABC Construction did. "Ready to build a stronger online presence for your construction business? Don't wait! Discover proven online advertising tactics that have worked wonders for others in your industry. Click here to elevate your business now!" Start Your Digital Transformation Now! "According to a study by Construct Connect, 90% of contractors are spending more time online to conduct research and collaborate on projects. This highlights the increasing importance of online advertising strategies for construction services in reaching out to this growing digital audience."

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tmrinfra · 10 months ago

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The Algorithmic Maze: Navigating the Impact of Social Media on Digital Marketing

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maharghaideovate · 10 months ago

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Bring HR Theory to Life with Practical Applications and Case Studies

In the world of Human Resources, book smarts only get you so far. That's where the Symbiosis Distance Learning Center steps in, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Let's dive into how this program turns HR concepts into real-world skills.

Real-World Case Studies: Where Theory Meets Reality

Ever wondered how big companies handle their HR hiccups? The Symbiosis Distance Learning Center serves up a buffet of real-world case studies. These aren't just dusty old stories – they're fresh, relevant challenges that today's HR pros face daily.

Diversity Dilemmas: How a tech giant boosted workplace inclusion

Retention Riddles: The secret sauce behind a retail chain's low turnover

Culture Conundrums: Merging two company cultures without a meltdown

Students at the Symbiosis Distance Learning Center don't just read these cases – they dissect them. It's like being a detective, but instead of solving crimes, you're cracking HR codes. You'll learn to:

1. Spot the real issue hiding behind the symptoms

2. Brainstorm solutions that don't just look good on paper

3. Predict potential pitfalls before they become problems

This isn't about memorizing answers. It's about developing the mindset of a seasoned HR pro. By the time you're done, you'll be seeing HR challenges – and opportunities – everywhere you look.

Industry Projects and Internships: Getting Your Hands Dirty

Talk is cheap, but experience? That's gold. The Symbiosis Distance Learning Center knows this, which is why they push students out of the nest (gently, of course).

Internships aren't just resume padding here. They're a crucial part of the learning journey. Picture this:

• You're helping a startup build its first employee handbook

• Or maybe you're revamping a multinational's onboarding process

• Perhaps you're designing a wellness program for a high-stress industry

These aren't hypothetical scenarios. They're real projects that Symbiosis Distance Learning Center students tackle. And the best part? You're not alone. You've got the backing of your instructors and the center's network of industry partners.

Why are these experiences so valuable? Let's break it down:

1. You'll face real stakes and real deadlines

2. Your ideas will be put to the test in living, breathing companies

3. You'll build a network that could lead to your next big career move

But it's not all about what you can do for the companies. These experiences are also about what the companies can do for you. Every project, every internship, is a chance to:

• Test-drive different HR roles

• Discover your strengths (and areas for improvement)

• Build confidence in your abilities

By the time you're done, you won't just have knowledge – you'll have know-how.

Workshops and Seminars: Learning from the Best

Ever wish you could pick the brains of HR superstars? At the Symbiosis Correspondence Courses, that's part of the curriculum. Through workshops and seminars, students get face time with industry heavyweights.

These aren't your typical snooze-fest lectures. They're interactive, engaging, and sometimes even a little controversial. Topics on the menu include:

• Conflict Resolution: Because not every workplace disagreement ends in a group hug

• Negotiation Skills: Learn to get what you want without burning bridges

• Leadership Development: Because being a boss and being a leader are two different things

What makes these sessions special? Let's count the ways:

1. Real-world scenarios: No textbook examples here – just raw, unfiltered HR challenges

2. Interactive exercises: Role-playing, group discussions, and hands-on problem-solving

3. Q&A sessions: Your chance to ask the burning questions keeping you up at night

But it's not just about soaking up wisdom. These workshops are also about building your HR toolkit. You'll walk away with:

• Practical techniques you can use on day one of your next job

• Insights into emerging HR trends before they hit the mainstream

• A network of fellow HR enthusiasts to bounce ideas off long after the workshop ends

The Symbiosis Distance Learning Center doesn't just bring in any old speaker. They curate a roster of professionals who've been in the trenches. These are folks who've navigated mergers, handled crisis communications, and transformed toxic work cultures.

Bringing It All Together

The Symbiosis Distance Learning Center isn't about learning HR in a vacuum. It's about preparing you for the messy, complex, endlessly fascinating world of real-world HR. Through case studies, internships, and workshops, you'll develop:

• Critical thinking skills to tackle any HR challenge

• Practical experience that sets you apart in the job market

• A network of contacts that could shape your entire career

This isn't just education – it's transformation. By the time you're done, you won't just know HR. You'll be ready to shape the future of work, one company at a time.

Remember, in the world of HR, learning never stops. But with the foundation you'll build at the Symbiosis Center For Distance Learning, you'll be ready for whatever challenges come your way. So, are you ready to turn HR theory into HR practice?

#HumanResources #HRTheory #PracticalHR #CaseStudies #HREducation #HRSkills #HRTraining #RealWorldHR #HRApplications #HRProfessionals

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alt-ctrl · 10 months ago

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The Art of Less: How Simplicity is Reshaping Our Future

In a world drowning in complexity, simplicity is throwing us a life preserver. As we navigate the choppy waters of technological advancement and information overload, a curious paradox emerges: the more complicated our lives become, the more we crave simplicity. It's as if our collective consciousness is screaming, "Make it stop!" while simultaneously refreshing our social media feeds. But fear not, dear reader, for the future of design and innovation is set to deliver us from the clutches of complication, one sleek, minimalist product at a time.

The Minimalist Revolution: Less is More (and Maybe Even Better)

Remember when your grandparents used to complain about how complicated their new TV remote was? Well, buckle up, Grandma and Grandpa, because the future is about to make your life a whole lot easier. The world of consumer electronics is embracing minimalism faster than a Silicon Valley executive adopts a new fad diet.

Take Apple, for instance. They've turned simplicity into an art form, creating products so intuitive that even your technophobic aunt can use them without breaking into a cold sweat. By stripping away unnecessary features and focusing on core functionalities, Apple has set the gold standard for sleek, user-friendly design. It's as if they've discovered a magical formula: Simplicity = Functionality + Aesthetics - Headaches.

But here's the million-dollar question: In our quest for simplicity, are we at risk of dumbing down technology? Or are we actually making it smarter by making it more accessible? It's a philosophical conundrum that would make even Socrates scratch his head.

The Interface Diet: Trimming the UI Fat

Speaking of philosophy, let's ponder this: If a user interface falls in the forest and no one can figure out how to use it, does it make a sound? The future of UI design is on a strict diet, shedding unnecessary elements faster than a contestant on a weight loss reality show.

Google's Material Design is leading the charge in this interface revolution. By employing clean, uncluttered layouts, they're making their software more user-friendly and visually appealing. It's like Marie Kondo went on a digital rampage, asking each button and menu item, "Does this spark joy?" and mercilessly discarding those that don't.

But here's where it gets interesting: As interfaces become simpler, are we inadvertently creating a divide between tech-savvy users who crave customization and those who prefer a more streamlined experience? It's a delicate balance, like trying to please both vegans and carnivores at a dinner party.

From Fitbits to Fit Bodies: Simplicity in Health and Wellness

Now, let's talk about health. Remember when tracking your fitness meant writing down how many jumping jacks you did in a notebook? Those days are long gone, my friend. The health and wellness industry is embracing simplicity with open arms, and the results are nothing short of revolutionary.

Wearable fitness trackers, like those from Fitbit, have simplified health monitoring to the point where even couch potatoes can't resist joining the fitness bandwagon. These devices are so user-friendly, they practically guilt you into exercising. It's like having a tiny, wrist-mounted personal trainer that doesn't yell at you (yet).

But here's a thought to chew on: As health tracking becomes simpler and more ubiquitous, are we at risk of becoming too reliant on technology to tell us how we're feeling? Will we forget how to listen to our own bodies? It's a bit like outsourcing our health to a tiny computer. What could possibly go wrong?

The Sustainable Simplicity Paradox

Here's where things get really interesting. It turns out that simplicity and sustainability are like two peas in an environmentally friendly pod. Companies like Patagonia are proving that products can be simple, functional, and kind to Mother Earth all at the same time. It's like they've cracked the code to guilt-free consumerism.

But wait, there's a twist! By creating products that last longer and generate less waste, are these companies inadvertently shooting themselves in the foot? After all, if we're not constantly replacing our stuff, how will they stay in business? It's a paradox that would make even the most zen minimalist scratch their head in confusion.

Urban Simplicity: The City of the Future

Finally, let's zoom out and look at the bigger picture. Urban planners and architects are embracing simplicity in ways that could reshape our cities. The concept of 'Smart Cities' is like SimCity come to life, but with less alien invasions and more efficient public transportation.

By integrating minimalist design principles with advanced technologies, urban planners are creating spaces that are not just functional, but actually enhance our quality of life. Imagine a city where everything just works, where public spaces are designed with humans in mind, not just cars. It's enough to bring a tear to the eye of even the most hardened city dweller.

But here's the million-dollar question: As our cities become smarter and more streamlined, are we at risk of losing the beautiful chaos that makes urban life so vibrant? Will the city of the future be a sterile utopia, or can we find a balance between efficiency and the delightful unpredictability of urban living?

In conclusion, the future of simplicity in design and innovation is a double-edged sword, albeit a very sleek and minimalist one. As we strip away complexity and embrace minimalism, we open up new possibilities for accessibility, sustainability, and enhanced quality of life. But we must also be mindful of the potential pitfalls and unintended consequences of our quest for simplicity.

So, the next time you find yourself frustratedly navigating a complicated interface or drowning in a sea of unnecessary features, take heart. The future is coming, and it's bringing with it a wave of beautiful, functional simplicity. Just don't be surprised if that simplicity comes with its own set of complexities. After all, nothing in life is ever truly simple, is it?

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#The Minimalist Revolution: Less is More #The Interface Diet: Trimming the UI Fat #From Fitbits to Fit Bodies: Simplicity in Health and Wellness #The Sustainable Simplicity Paradox #Urban Simplicity: The City of the Future

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