#Oracle Consulting Company

[innovativemethods]

Innovative Methods Consulting

What is The Strategic Impact of an Efficient HCM System?

Previously, it was believed that a company's high competitiveness was based solely on aspects such as finances, operational capacity, etc. However, today it is known that a factor that is fundamental to achieving the above is undoubtedly human talent. With a talent pool, an organization can properly execute the strategy that will allow it to take the business to a position of success. To do this, it is important to manage human capital through an efficient human resources department that works strategically and has tools such as Oracle HCM Cloud that allows it to improve the experience of its collaborators. This suggests that adopting Oracle HCM data security best practices is inevitable.

It is possible your company does not yet have a solution like this and you do not know how it can support your human capital. If it your case, keep reading this post to know how an HCM system helps you have a more strategic human resources department.

The Strategic Benefits of Human Capital Management (HCM) Systems

Nowadays, more and more organizations have found that HCM systems, like Oracle HCM Cloud, are a very useful tool to enable the human resources department to work in a more strategic way and properly manage their most valuable asset: their human resources.

Below we share and detail some reasons why an HCM system can help your human resources department work in a more strategic way.

Streamline HR Tasks

There are various activities that are strategic for both the human resources department and the organization, such as:

Recruit the best professionals in their areas.

Take action such as: Implementing career and succession plans, creating training and coaching plans, and managing compensation, which will allow us to retain the best human talent and thus reduce staff turnover.

Properly integrate new employees into the ranks of the organization.

Apply performance evaluations to verify that employees are performing appropriately or to detect areas of opportunity to correct them.

An HCM system allows all these processes to be automated, so that HR professionals can carry them out in a more agile and efficient manner, thereby achieving greater productivity in the area. In addition, they can be sure that all these activities are fully aligned with the company's strategy. If your HR department uses Oracle HCM Cloud, you can take your HCM to the new heights by maintaining and following exact steps to upgrade Oracle HCM Cloud.

Empower Employees with Self-Service

Thanks to the implementation of an HCM system in the company, both employees and managers can perform self-services of various human resources processes. Thus, HR professionals can reduce the administrative workload of the employees of said department and allow them to focus on the strategic aspect.

Operational activities that employees can perform on their own include: updating personal data, accessing benefits portals, contributions, etc. Managers, for their part, can access staff information, execute changes such as promotions, bonuses, salary changes, etc.

Unify and Automate HR Processes

A human talent solution gives you the opportunity to integrate the different human resources processes of your organization. For example: An employee can be adequately compensated according to the result obtained in his/her performance evaluation (which in turn derives from the specific objectives assigned to him/her) and whether he/she has fully complied with his/her entire training plan.

Strategic Talent Management

Organizations currently face various challenges, including a lack of alignment between business and individual objectives, low employee satisfaction and commitment, and high turnover of human talent.

However, human capital software helps to deal with these situations by automating the process of creating and aligning organizational and individual objectives. It also provides the opportunity to link it to the performance evaluation process to monitor compliance. Likewise, through a compensation management solution, it is possible to implement plans that allow employees to be motivated to meet their work objectives. It also allows

the implementation of training plans, career plans, and succession plans to increase the satisfaction and commitment of the work team.

If you have already made the decision to achieve the execution of your business strategy through human capital, it is important that you ensure that your human resources department works strategically. Innovative Methods Consulting can help by providing comprehensive suite of Oracle HCM Cloud to manage your talent pool and streamline all HR functions. Achieve project turnaround in Oracle HCM with our expert support and guidance.

Kick off with us today!

[dreamstelit]

Expert Oracle Consulting Services for Your Business

Boost your organization’s efficiency with professional Oracle consulting services tailored to your specific needs. From Oracle Cloud to on-premise solutions, our certified consultants provide full lifecycle support—planning, implementation, upgrades, and optimization. We help streamline processes, reduce costs, and ensure compliance. Our team brings years of experience across industries, delivering scalable and secure Oracle solutions. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, our flexible engagement models fit your budget and timeline. Partner with us to unlock Oracle’s full potential. Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how our Oracle consulting services can transform your operations.

[softartsolutions]

Oracle EBS Security: Key Areas to Strengthen Your Defense

Six vital focus areas to fortify Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) security—identifying potential risks, applying best security practices, enforcing role-based access control, encrypting sensitive data, conducting regular security audits, and automating key security tasks. These practices are essential for organizations and Oracle EBS consulting companies aiming to ensure system integrity, safeguard sensitive data, and maintain regulatory compliance.

[systemonexinc]

How Oracle ERP Consulting Companies Are Transforming Businesses?

In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, staying ahead of the curve is imperative for sustainable growth and success. With the advent of technology, companies are constantly seeking ways to streamline their operations, enhance efficiency, and drive profitability. This quest for optimization has led many businesses to turn to Oracle ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, leveraging the expertise of consulting companies specializing in Oracle ERP implementation and management.

Oracle ERP consulting companies play a pivotal role in assisting businesses of all sizes and industries in harnessing the full potential of Oracle's robust suite of enterprise solutions. From initial implementation to ongoing support and optimization, these consulting firms offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs and objectives of each client.

So, how exactly are Oracle ERP consulting companies transforming businesses? Let's delve into some key ways:

Seamless Implementation: One of the primary roles of Oracle ERP consulting companies is to guide businesses through the implementation process seamlessly. From assessing the organization's requirements to designing a customized solution architecture, these experts ensure a smooth transition to the new ERP system. Their in-depth knowledge of Oracle's products and best practices helps minimize disruptions and maximize efficiency during the implementation phase.

Customization and Integration: Every business has its own set of processes, workflows, and systems in place. Oracle ERP consulting companies understand this diversity and excel in tailoring Oracle's ERP solutions to align with the specific needs of each client. Whether it's customizing modules, integrating third-party applications, or creating bespoke functionalities, these consultants leverage their technical prowess to ensure a perfect fit for the business.

Data-driven Insights: With Oracle ERP systems in place, businesses gain access to a wealth of data across various functions, including finance, supply chain, human resources, and more. Oracle ERP consulting companies help organizations harness this data by implementing advanced analytics and reporting capabilities. By transforming raw data into actionable insights, businesses can make informed decisions, identify trends, and seize opportunities for growth and optimization.

Optimized Business Processes: Efficiency is the cornerstone of success in today's competitive landscape. Oracle ERP consulting companies work closely with businesses to streamline their processes and workflows, eliminating redundancies, reducing manual errors, and enhancing productivity across the board. Whether it's automating routine tasks, standardizing procedures, or optimizing resource allocation, these consultants empower businesses to operate at peak efficiency levels.

Scalability and Flexibility: As businesses grow and evolve, so do their needs and requirements. Oracle ERP consulting companies ensure that the ERP solution is not just a one-time fix but a scalable and flexible platform that can adapt to changing business dynamics. Whether it's expanding into new markets, adding new product lines, or accommodating increased transaction volumes, these consultants design ERP systems that can scale seamlessly with the business.

Continuous Support and Optimization: The journey doesn't end with implementation. Oracle ERP consulting companies provide ongoing support and optimization services to ensure that the ERP system continues to deliver value over the long term. Whether it's troubleshooting issues, implementing updates, or providing training to end-users, these consultants are committed to maximizing the ROI of the ERP investment.

In conclusion, Oracle ERP consulting companies are playing a pivotal role in transforming businesses by enabling them to leverage the full potential of Oracle's powerful suite of enterprise solutions. From seamless implementation to continuous support and optimization, these consultants are helping businesses streamline their operations, unlock actionable insights, and drive sustainable growth in today's dynamic business environment.

Whether you're a small startup or a global enterprise, partnering with an Oracle ERP consulting company can be the key to unlocking your organization's full potential and staying ahead of the competition. With their expertise and guidance, you can navigate the complexities of ERP implementation with confidence and embark on a journey towards greater efficiency, agility, and success.

[nijatech]

Nijatech: A Premier Choice Among ERP Consulting Companies in Dubai

In the vibrant landscape of Dubai's business sector, where efficiency and innovation are paramount, selecting the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) consulting firm can significantly impact an organization's success. Among the myriad of options available, Nijatech stands out as a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive ERP solutions tailored to their unique needs.

Established with a commitment to excellence and driven by a passion for empowering businesses, Nijatech has emerged as a premier player in the realm of ERP consulting in Dubai. With a proven track record of delivering transformative ERP implementations, the company has garnered a reputation for reliability, expertise, and customer-centricity.

Here are some compelling reasons why Nijatech shines as a leader among ERP consulting companies in Dubai:

1. Expertise Across Industries: Nijatech boasts a team of seasoned professionals with diverse industry backgrounds and extensive expertise in ERP systems. Whether it's manufacturing, retail, construction, hospitality, or any other sector, Nijatech's consultants possess the domain knowledge necessary to understand the intricacies of each business and devise tailored ERP solutions.

2. Comprehensive Solutions:Recognizing that one size does not fit all, Nijatech takes a consultative approach to understand each client's unique requirements, challenges, and goals. Leveraging this insight, the company offers end-to-end ERP solutions encompassing implementation, customization, integration, training, and support services. From selecting the right ERP platform to optimizing business processes, Nijatech ensures a seamless journey towards digital transformation.

3. Cutting-Edge Technologies: In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, Nijatech remains at the forefront by staying abreast of the latest innovations in ERP software. Whether it's cloud-based solutions, AI-driven analytics, or IoT integration, the company harnesses cutting-edge technologies to empower businesses with scalable, future-ready ERP systems that drive efficiency, agility, and competitiveness.

4. Client-Centric Approach: At Nijatech, client satisfaction is paramount. The company places a strong emphasis on building long-term partnerships based on trust, transparency, and responsiveness. From initial consultation to post-implementation support, Nijatech's dedicated team ensures that clients receive personalized attention and prompt resolution of any issues or concerns.

5. Proven Track Record: With a portfolio of successful ERP implementations across diverse industries, Nijatech has earned the trust of numerous satisfied clients. The company's testimonials and case studies bear testimony to its ability to deliver tangible results, such as increased productivity, streamlined operations, enhanced decision-making, and improved customer satisfaction.

6. Global Reach, Local Presence: While Nijatech boasts a global outlook, the company maintains a strong local presence in Dubai, allowing for seamless communication, cultural understanding, and on-the-ground support. This combination of global expertise and local insight enables Nijatech to effectively navigate the nuances of the Dubai business landscape and deliver tailored ERP solutions that drive sustainable growth and success.

In conclusion, Nijatech stands out as a top choice among ERP consulting companies in Dubai, thanks to its expertise, comprehensive solutions, cutting-edge technologies, client-centric approach, proven track record, and global-local synergy. For businesses seeking to unlock their full potential through digital transformation, Nijatech remains a trusted partner dedicated to driving success in the dynamic business environment of Dubai and beyond.

[grey-space-computing]

🚀 Exciting News from Grey Space Computing! 🌐✨

Thrilled to announce that Grey Space Computing, your trusted Oracle Consulting Partner, is taking innovation to new heights! 🚀💻

🌐 Explore the Power of Oracle with Grey Space:

✅ Expert Oracle Consultants

✅ Tailored Solutions for Your Business

✅ Cutting-Edge Technology Integration

✅ Proven Track Record of Success

At Grey Space, we're not just consultants; we're your partners in achieving digital excellence. 🔗💼

Ready to elevate your business with Oracle? Let's connect and explore the possibilities together! 🌐🔍 https://greyspacecomputing.com/oracle-erp-solution/

#GreySpaceComputing #OracleConsulting #Innovation #DigitalTransformation #BusinessExcellence #TechnologyPartnership #oracleerp #cloudsolutions #clouderp #cloudapplications #oraclepartnerindonesia #oraclepartner #odi #optimadatainternasional #odilife #oracleodi #oracleerpcloud #oraclehcm

[techcarrot-dubai]

Revolutionize Your Business with Custom Web Applications

Web application development services encompass a wide range of activities aimed at designing, building, and maintaining web-based applications. These applications can perform a variety of functions and provide services to users over the internet. Here are the key aspects of web application development that techcarrot offer:

1.     Consultation and Strategy:

Understanding client requirements and business objectives.

Offering strategic guidance and consultation on the technology stack, platform, and features.

2.     Custom Web Application Development:

Building web applications tailored to meet specific business needs.

Utilizing programming languages (such as JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, etc.) and frameworks to develop scalable and secure applications.

3.     Front-End Development:

Creating the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design.

Implementing responsive design for optimal user experience across various devices.

4.     Back-End Development:

Developing server-side logic and database management.

Utilizing server-side languages (like Node.js, Django, Flask, Ruby on Rails, etc.) and database systems (such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, etc.).

5.     Database Design and Integration:

Designing and implementing the database architecture.

Integrating databases with the application for efficient data storage and retrieval.

6.     API Development and Integration:

Creating Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for communication with other systems.

Integrating third-party APIs or services for added functionality.

7.     Testing and Quality Assurance:

Conducting a comprehensive testing process that includes unit testing, integration testing, and user acceptance testing.

Identifying and fixing bugs and issues is necessary to ensure a reliable and secure application.

8.     Security Implementation:

Enacting security measures to safeguard against common web vulnerabilities.

Ensuring secure data transmission and storage.

9.     Deployment and Hosting:

Deploying the web application in a hosting environment.

Configuring server settings and ensuring the application is live and accessible.

10. Maintenance and Support:

Providing ongoing maintenance and support services.

Addressing issues, applying updates, and ensuring the application remains compatible with changing technologies.

11. Scalability and Performance Optimization:

Optimizing the application for performance and scalability.

Monitoring and addressing performance issues as the user base grows.

12. Upgrades and Enhancements:

Implementing new features or upgrading existing ones to meet evolving business needs.

Keeping the technology stack up-to-date for security and performance reasons.

When seeking web application development services Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Middle East, techcarrot would be the ideal partner that aligns with your specific project requirements, budget, and long-term goals.

[levi-4uckerman]

: ̗̀➛ satoru gojo x reader // like ghosts in the snow // chapter five

♥ the one where it happens again. many times. ♥ (´ω｀*) ☾ ⋆ TWs: explicit sexual content, intimate sex, unprotected sex, creampies, nightmares, sukuna mention (fucking finally) ☾ ⋆ Words: 3.5k (shorter one, sorry!)

⇘  previous chapter  ⇙ •┈••✦ ❤ ✦••┈• ⇘  story timeline  ⇙

⌦ Tokyo, Japan | February, 2015..｡.:*♡

It was supposed to stop.

Every time, you promised yourself it would be the last. The last stolen glance, the last late-night visit, the last time you’d wake up to find him draped across your bed like he belonged there.

It never was.

The rules you’d made— unspoken and fragile —were already ruined. You couldn’t remember when you stopped pretending. Maybe it was that time in the library, with his hot breath against your neck while your fingers tangled in his hair. Or maybe it was the night that he’d shown up at your place again, hair wet from the rain and desperation shining in his eyes as he begged you to let him in.

Any lines you’d tried to draw in between were crossed. Over and over again.

Satoru wasn’t supposed to be on your mind like this. In your bed. And yet… you wanted him there.

It didn’t matter where you met him— on the school grounds, in dimly lit hallways of the Council building, or on opposite sides of the same room— trading sharp words like weapons. It always ended the same way.

His lips attached to yours, hands planted firmly against your skin. His voice low and teasing in your ear. You hated how natural it felt, how easy it was. How inevitable it felt, to give in.

It shouldn’t have been.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

The days passed in a blur, and although you hated yourself for it, you were welcoming of Satoru’s company. He was a soothing balm to your constant cycle of stress and frustration, between council meetings and consultations within the world of Jujutsu. As the first and only appointed Oracle, your technique was in high demand— by higher-ups and colleagues alike.

Satoru knew what it was like, to be needed in such a way… an impersonal sort of way, the kind that makes you feel like more of a tool than a human.

More of a weapon than a human, in his experience.

“You’re going to burn yourself out, Shi-chan,” he told you one afternoon spent on campus, sitting next to him in his office while sifting through paperwork. He had parked his chair way too close to yours, which was nothing new, but it was distracting. His bandages were discarded, his eyes half-lidded as he watched you flip through the reports in your lap.

“I don’t have a choice,” you mumbled, exhaustion tugging at you. “Someone has to take these requests. You wouldn’t understand—,”

A loud snort cut you off. “Wouldn’t I?” His eyes were teasing, but something in his expression was… softer. You’d miss it if you blinked. “Come on, Shi-chan. You think I don’t know what it’s like, to be the first person the executives call when they’re in over their heads? The only one they can turn to when they can’t handle their own shit?”

Your hands paused in their movements, but you averted your gaze.

You felt him creep closer, still; you felt him reach out to touch your jaw, gently forcing you to look at him. “You don’t have to keep saying yes, you know,” he continued. “You can let people down sometimes. It’s freeing.”

“No one else can do what I do,” you said. “I have to say yes.”

“No, you don’t,” Satoru said, releasing your jaw. “I say no all the goddamn time.”

“That’s because you don’t care,” you spat, heat rising in your chest.

“Wrong,” he sang in response, the grin spreading across his face infuriatingly attractive. “I care a lot. But I don’t owe the higher-ups anything, and I want them to know that.”

“Easy for you to say, Satoru,” your tone was cutting, angry. “You’re untouchable. They need you, whether you say yes or not.”

Satoru’s relaxed stance changed. His muscles tensed visibly beneath his uniform, his jaw ticked imperceptibly. He was upset, too. “They also need you,” he asserted. “And I don’t want you to kill yourself trying to prove it.”

You stood up, suddenly uncomfortable with his proximity. You were frowning, brows furrowed as you stared down at him. Unmoving. Unspeaking.

After a beat, you found your voice. “If I don’t do it, no one will.”

He stood, the scrape of his chair against the floor echoing slightly in the quiet room. He towered over you, personal space virtually nonexistent. You felt the quiet hum of his Infinity fizzle briefly against you, a familiar sensation after practically growing up together. You stiffened, but did not step back.

“What about what you need?” He asked. “Who’s going to look out for you?”

“It doesn’t matter,” you said. The words came out stronger than you’d intended, surprising even yourself.

“Bull fucking shit,” he shot back, sharp but not unkind. “It matters, Shi-chan. And if you keep letting them drain you dry, you’ll find that out the hard way.”

You let the reports slip from your grasp, papers cascading to the floor of Satoru’s pristine office. "They gave me this promotion, Gojo. I don’t have a choice,” you whispered, turning away from him. You approached the door, hand reaching for the metal handle when you felt heat pressing against your back.

Satoru’s heat.

He reached around you, stopping your limb short. “There’s always a choice,” he murmured, the Infinity between you disappearing. You felt his breath on your neck, the low rumble of his voice caressing the shell of your ear. You closed your eyes tight. “You’re allowed to make one for yourself.”

Just as the silence began to settle, your phone buzzed on the wood of Satoru’s desk. From here, you could just barely make out the name— and you couldn’t suppress the way your face twisted into a scowl and a frustrated huff left your nostrils.

Before you knew it, Satoru appeared at the desk, gripping your phone in his hands. His gaze narrowed at the name in a way that suggested he wasn’t familiar. “Who is this?”

“The Administrative Liaison from the Jujutsu Council,” you muttered, tone dripping with disdain. “They’re summoning me for another investigation.”

His eyes flashed to yours, and your stomach dropped. “Satoru, no, don’t you dare—,”

Too late. He accepted the call, pressing a finger to his lips in warning before speaking into the receiver. “Myoji’s phone, this is Satoru Gojo,” he said smoothly. “What can I do for the esteemed Jujutsu Council on this fine evening?”

You watched in horror, helpless as he grinned, listening to the voice on the other line. The words were fast, practically mumbled from where you stood across the room. He leaned against the edge of the desk, tilting his gorgeous head as if pondering his next move.

“No,” he said finally, his tone pleasant. “I’m afraid Myoji is not available.”

Whatever response he got next made his grin widen. He tapped his fingers against the desk, a steady rhythm that only amplified your anxiety.

“Nonono, you’re misunderstanding,” he said, cutting off the voice on the other end. “She’s not your errand girl, and she’s not a tool for you to exploit. You don’t get to treat her like this.”

Your stomach twisted. “Satoru!” You seethed. “Stop this!”

He held up a finger, silencing you without so much as a glance. “If you keep bullying her into saying yes, the Council will have a lot more trouble than their precious Oracle could fix.”

The weight of his words seemed to ripple through the room, his cursed energy pressing into the very air around you both. Whatever the caller said next was brief, clipped, and cut short as Satoru ended the call without so much as a goodbye. He smirked at you, the edge of his energy easing as he let the silence stretch for another beat. He tossed the phone back onto the desk.

You stomped over to him, anger twisting your face. “What the hell was that?”

Satoru shrugged. “Me doing something you should have done a long time ago. You’re welcome!” He added brightly.

Your jaw tightened. “They gave me my first grade status, Satoru,” you pressed. “I owe it to them to—,”

“You earned that fucking status,” he said, leaning down into you. “They won’t touch it. Not if I have anything to say about it.”

“I can handle myself, you know,” you said quietly, meeting his eyes with a similar fervor. “You didn’t have to do that.”

Despite your words, something softened in your heart. He’d… stood up for you. When had anyone ever done that? Why… did he do that? He was watching you now, his grin faint— the kind of smirk that was more armor than expression. His hands were tucked loosely in his pockets, but you could see the tension in his shoulders, the slight tilt of his head as he waited for you to snap, to yell at him, to tell him to stay out of your business.

And you should have done all of those things.

Instead, you stayed silent, chewing on your lip. You felt like you could see your reflection in those bright blue eyes— small, uncertain, and utterly undone by the man standing before you.

For a moment, the only sound in the room was the faint hum of the overhead light.

Satoru swallowed before finally replying. “Yeah, I did.”

You were standing inches apart, if even that. Your breath caught in your chest when he reached out, long fingers brushing a strand of hair from your face. The touch was fleeting, almost hesitant, and it sent a wave of heat coursing through you.

“Satoru,” you warned, breathless.

“Shh,” he said, unmoving. “I’m not doing anything.”

You could smell his cologne— clean and refreshing with something spicy underneath. You closed your eyes, trying to remind yourself to be angry. Be mad. You were supposed to stop.

“Should I?” he asked, his words barely above a murmur. The faint curve of his lips dared you to reply. Dared you to say yes.

You said his name again, but your voice came out husky. Wrong. “Shouldn’t… be this close,” you managed to add, although lacking in conviction.

“Am I close?” He asked, the teasing lilt in his tone sending your stomach into knots.

You swallowed hard, your gaze flickering to his mouth before snapping back to his eyes. “Yes.”

“Does it bother you?” He tilted his head, just slightly, enough to bring his face closer to yours.

“Yes.” You whispered.

Your voice cracked.

“Liar.”

He leaned forward, so slightly— just enough to let your breaths mingle, your lips graze each other.

This dance, this… game you played was like a stuck record. It repeated the same verse over and over, infinitely.

You feared it would never get old.

“We really shouldn’t,” you said again, voice shaking as you braced your palm against his chest.

Oh. His Infinity was down.

Oh. He was warm.

“Yeah, yeah,” he teased, as if he could feel your resolve cracking. “You always say that, baby—,”

A sharp knock at the door shattered the moment, as abrupt and jarring as glass hitting the floor.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Satoru froze, his lips hovering just over yours. His instinct was to ignore it. Pretend no one was there, pretend the world didn’t exist outside of this moment, like in his domain—

“Satoru,” You whispered, your voice low and insistent. His head dropped forward in exaggerated defeat, the faintest groan slipping from his lips onto yours.

“Ignore it,” he pleaded, grabbing at your waist, pulling you closer.

But something in the air had shifted, the moment was over. You pulled away as another sharp knock cut through the silence, followed by a voice calling out for him, for Satoru.

He’d lost you for the moment, but not the evening. Straightening his posture, replacing his bandages, Satoru used his technique to straighten the papers scattered among your feet as you reclaimed a seat at his desk. The blush on your cheeks was faint, but not indetectable. Not for him.

This wasn’t over. He was sure of that.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Sitting in the windowsill of the Tokyo dorms, your fingers twisting nervously in your lap; you knew he was coming. You let your gaze linger over the the school grounds, unfocused, as the glow of the moon cast soft shadows over your face.

“You hidin’ from me?” Satoru said from behind you, the weight of his attention impossible to ignore. You turned to face him, pleased to see that his eyes were covered.

It was always easier to talk to him that way.

“Maybe I’m just busy.”

He stepped into your space, taking a seat next to you. A warm hand settled over your knee, squeezing gently. “You’re not.”

You sighed. “You shouldn’t be here, Satoru.”

“And why is that?”

“I can’t keep doing this,” you whispered, voice strained. “This pretending.”

He reached out, his fingers brushing yours. “Pretending…?” His voice was teasing as usual, but there was a hint of something else. Something vulnerable.

Despite the bandages over his eyes, you felt incredibly naked before him. You swallowed before replying, “Pretending that this doesn’t mean anything to me. Pretending that every time we meet eyes in the hall, it doesn’t affect me, or that every time you play with my hair while we’re laying together in your silk sheets that it doesn’t make me want to stay there forever. This might be the sort of thing that works for you, Satoru, but I can’t. I can’t keep pretending.” You felt tears prickling at your eyes, proud that you managed to hold them in despite the quiver of your lip.

Satoru was silent for a moment, the room feeling heavier between you. His hand stilled against yours, while the other reached up to bare his six eyes to you. They were glowing, you noticed. Have they always done that?

“Then don’t,” he leaned closer, his words lacking any playfulness. “You don’t have to pretend.”

Your heart raced in your chest. The tension in the air was palpable. “You promise me you won’t regret it?” you asked in a trembling voice, each word a hesitant offering. You’d turned yourself toward him, and your eyes searched his for any measure of deceit or humor. You found none.

Satoru tilted his head slightly, the tiniest smirk pulling at the edges of his lips. “Shouldn’t I be asking you that?”

His fingers rose to your jaw, tilting your face toward his. Despite the intimate proximity you’d been in with him up to this point, this felt different. Charged with something unspoken, something fragile.

He leaned in, his breath warm against your lips. But he didn’t kiss you— not yet. Instead, his mouth hovered, brushing yours in a gentle sort of way that wasn’t quite a kiss. The space between you dissolved into shallow breaths, the heat of his exhale teasing your skin.

Your fingers curled into the fabric of his shirt, holding him there— unwilling to let the distance grow. “You always do this to me,” you murmured, the words barely audible.

“Do what?” He asked, his voice soft, the question slipping between you like a secret.

You didn’t answer, instead pressing your lips to his with more intention, but still just as soft.

He murmured your full name like a plea, his forehead pressed against yours. His mouth ghosted over the corner of your own, a touch so light that it nearly broke you.

“This,” you whispered, letting his hands slide to your waist. The touch was insistent, grounding you as the weight of him pressed into you- unyielding and steady. Still, he didn’t kiss you— not completely. His mouth lingered, tasting the edges of words unspoken, stealing breaths like something precious. When his lips shifted against yours, deeper this time, a soft sound escaped you. He caught it, swallowed it, his breath heavy with the same quiet desperation. It wasn’t a kiss. It was everything.

You fell into each other, feeling the world shift as Satoru warped you into the closest dorm. Students still used this wing, and you had to be quiet— something he reminded you of with a hand clasped over your mouth as he sucked on your neck, nipping and biting.

Your bodies fit together like pieces of a puzzle; his warmth seeped into you, leaving a trail of fire wherever he touched. It was fast, it was desperate, it was careless. Murmured praise echoed into the room as he pleasured you— first with his fingers, then his mouth, and finally his cock. Your legs wrapped around his waist, pulling him impossibly closer with each thrust. Somewhere in the back of your mind, it registered that you’d forgotten protection, but you didn’t care. You wanted Satoru close, wanted to be full of him, wanted him to seep out from between your thighs when he was finished with you.

When the waves of ecstasy finally washed over you both, you clung to him. His arms wrapped protectively around you as he pulsed within you, filling you so impossibly deep that you cried out into his shoulder, teeth baring down into his flesh until you tasted copper. His soft whimpers filled your ears as his tip kissed your womb, burying his seed deep into your walls.

When he flipped you onto your stomach for round two, you should have stopped him. Should have told him no, especially when his slick member pressed into you from behind, sloppily fucking his hot cum deeper into you. Should have at least made him pull out, instead of crying out in desperate pleas to give you more and more— egging him on, asking for it. Over and over until he lay spent on top of you, whining as he kissed you— for real this time. Desperate. Messy.

Meaningful.

Instead of thinking, you chose to exist. You let go of your questions and doubts, the looming shadows of what tomorrow might bring. Regret had no place here for now, not in his warmth, not with his breath steady against your skin.

You didn’t know how it would work or why it felt so certain, but there was an unshakeable peace within you. It whispered in the silence between the beats of your hearts— a fragile promise that, somehow, this… would be enough.

This would be okay.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

⌦ Somewhere out west... | 2018..｡.:*♡

You sat up abruptly in your bed, your blood feeling icy in your veins. The dream dragged you back to wakefulness with a cold grip, leaving your chest heaving. Your breath came in shallow gasps, cold sweat clinging to your skin despite the heavy quilt tangled around your lower half. The nightmare was fading quickly, vivid fragments slipping through the cracks like water.

Shriveled fingers. A boy with two faces. Something unspeakably dark coiled around his soul, whispering promises of destruction.

You pressed a trembling hand to your chest, willing your heart’s beating to slow. It wasn’t the first time you’d dreamed of him— this cursed boy. The details were always unclear, but the weight of his presence never failed to shake you. To leave you gasping for air, a cold sweat having taken over your body. Something about this dream felt eerily inevitable, like a thread woven thickly into your web of fate, intertwining with too many paths to ignore.

“Mama?”

The small voice cut through the fog in your head, pulling you back into the present. You turned toward the doorway, where Haruto stood, rubbing his eyes. He had his stuffed rabbit, Snowy, clutched tight against his chest. His white hair was sticking out in every direction, familiar blue eyes peering up at you with sleepy concern.

“Honey,” you started, softening your voice as you reached for him. “Did I wake you?”

He shuffled over to your bed, little feet barely making a sound against the floorboards. “You were talking,” he mumbled, climbing onto the mattress and curling into your side. “It sounded scary.”

Your heart twisted. “Was I?” you murmured, brushing a hand through his soft hair. “I was dreaming, sweetheart. I’m sorry it woke you.”

Haruto frowned at you, his little brows furrowing. “You have bad dreams, mama?”

“Yes,” you confirmed. “But it’s over. And I’ve got my little warrior with me now!” You added the last part with a smile, warm and loving.

He seemed to accept that, nestling closer to you with Snowy pressed between your bodies. His warmth was comforting, a stark contrast to the cold dread still clinging to your chest. You pulled your quilt over the both of you as you laid back, idly stroking your fingers through his hair.

“Do our dreams mean something, mama?” he murmured, his voice heavy with sleep.

Your hand slowed in its movements. “Maybe sometimes,” you said softly. “But not always.”

He yawned before uttering a soft “okay” and tucking his face into your side, drifting back to sleep with a tiny hand resting on your chest.

You watched as his breathing slowed, letting your gaze linger on his peaceful features. You saw Satoru in the curve of his jaw, the softness of his expression, the way his lips turned slightly upward even in sleep. It isn’t fair, you thought. That Haruto should be a living reminder of everything you’d been running from, everything you swore you’d protect him from.

And still, he was the most precious gift that Satoru had ever given you. The part of your past that you would never, could never regret.

Your fingers trailed through the mess of white hair on his head, your throat tightening as you whispered into the quiet dark of the room, “I’ll protect you. No matter what.”

Yet the question lingered, unspoken in the quiet air of your cabin. The dream still fresh on your mind, the unmistakable presence of a curse’s influence making you shiver. What, exactly, were you protecting him from?

.

.

This is Chapter 5 of a multi-chapter fic to be crossposted to AO3. Taglist below as requested. @starlightglimmersworld @mccookiemonster @leilakaro @certainduckanchor @itsbellablue-blog @shokosbunny @megumisthirdog @thegh0stwife @54fangirl @misslovingpearl @idkuluka @bitchycloudstrawberry @pinkpunkdynamite @theclassbookworm @okaywitheverything

[the-mortuary-witch]

APOLLO

WHO IS HE?

Apollo is the god of the sun, prophecy, oracles, light, music, the arts, song, poetry, healing, medicine, plague, disease, protection of the youth, knowledge, and herds. He is the son of the god Zeus and the goddess Leto, and the twin brother of the goddess Artemis. Apollo is depicted as a handsome and radiant god who is skilled in many areas, including music, archery, and medicine. He was also known for his intelligence and foresight, and was often consulted for advice and prophecies. Apollo was often depicted holding a lyre, the instrument that he played and used to soothe the worries of mortals.

BASIC INFO: 

Appearance: Apollo is usually depicted as a handsome young man with golden hair and a radiant complexion. He often wears a laurel wreath, which is a symbol of victory and excellence, on his head. He is also often depicted holding a bow, a lyre, or both, and wearing a flowing robe that is sometimes adorned with intricate patterns. Apollo is often portrayed as a youthful and attractive god, with a strong build and a confident, almost arrogant demeanor.

Personality: he is known for being a warm and affectionate deity who is fond of his devotees and enjoys their company. He is often depicted as being charismatic and charming, and is known for his quick wit and intelligence. He is also known for his appreciation of art and culture, and is often depicted engaged in music, poetry, and other artistic pursuits. With his devotees, Apollo is often portrayed as being generous and responsive to their prayers and supplications, and is often called upon for favors and blessings related to health, creativity, and success.

Symbols: lyre, laurel wreath, silver bow and arrows, tripod, the Sun, and Sunday

God of: the sun, prophecy, oracles, light, music, the arts, song, poetry, healing, medicine, plague, disease, protection of the youth, knowledge, and herds

Culture: Greek

Plants: sunflowers, laurel, larkspur, cypress, apple trees, palm trees, and hyacinthus

Crystals: sunstone, citrine, yellow sapphires, carnelian, heliodor, golden healer, peridot, anorthoclase, anglesite, swiss blue topaz, calcite, star sapphire, aurichalcite, cherry opal, white topaz, brewsterite, silver topaz, bristol diamond, ceylon sapphire, pecos diamond, blue amber, blue kunzite, bony amber, inderite, binghamite, Arkansas diamond, ajoite, baltic amber, trolleite, cacoxenite, mystic topaz, diamond, ulexite, corundum, milky quartz, boulder opal, goldstone, Ethiopian opal, black obsidian, and topaz

Animals: swan, hawk, raven, serpent, wolf, dolphin, griffin, and mouse

Incense: orange, lemon, clove, myrrh, frankincense, cypress, vanilla, and cinnamon

Practices: music magick, healing, art magick, protection, divination, and medicine magick

Colours: gold, yellow, orange, silver, blue, and white

Number: 7

Zodiacs: Leo, Gemini, and Capricorn

Tarot: The Sun, The Chariot, Strength, and Temperance

Planets: Sun and Mercury 

Days: Sunday, Apollonos, Hyakinthia, Apellai, Thargelia, Boedromia, Noumenia, Pythian Games, Pyanopsia, Karneia, Litha, and Yule

Parents: Zeus and Leto

Siblings: Artemis (twin) and many paternal half-siblings 

Partners: Cyrene, Rhetia, Daphne, Coronis, Hyacinth, Terpsichore, Rhoeo, Parthenope, Psamathe, Areia, Hecuba, and Melia

Children: Asclepius, Aristaeus, The Korybantes, Hymen, Anius, Cycnus, Linus of Thrace, Lycomedes, Melite, Miletus, Oaxes, Oncius, Orpheus, Troilus, Phemonoe, Philammon, Tenerus, Trophonius, and various others

MISC:

Sun: Apollo is associated with the sun because he was the god of the sun and the personification of the sun's light and warmth. The sun was seen as a powerful force that brought life and growth to the earth, and Apollo was believed to control the movements of the sun across the sky and regulate its heat and light. As the god of the sun, Apollo was also associated with purity, truth, and the passage of time, and his presence was often invoked in rituals and ceremonies related to the sun and the changing of the seasons.

Music: he was believed to be the inventor of the lyre and to have a deep understanding of music theory and composition. Apollo was often depicted playing the lyre, and his music was said to have the power to soothe the emotions and inspire the soul. Apollo was also the patron of musicians and singers, and was often called upon during musical competitions and festivals to judge contests and offer inspiration.

Poetry: his name is said to be derived from the Greek word "apo," which means "away" or "back," and the word "poiein," which means "to make" or "to create." As the patron of poetry and the arts, Apollo was said to have invented the art of writing and the alphabet, and he was often depicted holding a golden lyre, which he used to play music that inspired poets and bards.

Snakes: Apollo is associated with snakes because he was said to have control over snakes and could charm them with his music. One of the most famous myths involving Apollo and snakes is the story of the Python, a massive serpent that lived on Mount Parnassus and terrorized the people of the region. Apollo was said to have slain the Python and made the snake sacred to himself. 

Bow and arrows: as the god of archery, Apollo was said to have unparalleled skill with the bow and could hit targets at great distances with accuracy and precision. Apollo's skill with the bow was legendary, and he is often depicted as using his bow to hunt, protect, and defend. The bow and arrow were also symbols of power and authority, and Apollo was often depicted holding them in statues and frescoes.

Laurel wreath: the laurel wreath is also associated with Apollo's role as the god of poetry and the patron of the arts, as the laurel plant was believed to have healing properties that could cure madness and inspire creativity. The Laurel wreath worn by Apollo is a symbol of his victory over the Python and his mastery of the arts.

Ravens: they are often associated with Apollo because they are believed to be his sacred birds. The raven is a bird that is closely associated with prophecy and foresight, and Apollo was often depicted accompanied by a group of ravens that are said to have provided him with information and wisdom. One of the most famous stories involving Apollo and ravens is the myth of the Oracle at Delphi, where the god Apollo would receive prophecies from the priestess, and the ravens were believed to be his messengers.

FACTS ABOUT APOLLO:

His oracles were often consulted for guidance in various matters. He was in general seen as the god who affords help and wards off evil. 

Medicine and healing are associated with Apollo, whether through the god himself or mediated through his son Asclepius. Apollo delivered people from epidemics, yet he is also a god who could bring ill health and deadly plague with his arrows. 

Apollo presides over all music, songs, dance, and poetry. He is the inventor of string-music and the frequent companion of the Muses, functioning as their chorus leader in celebrations. 

He  is an important pastoral deity, and he was the patron of herdsmen and shepherds. Protection of herds, flocks and crops from diseases, pests and predators were his primary rustic duties. On the other hand, Apollo also encouraged the founding of new towns and the establishment of civil constitutions, is associated with dominion over colonists, and was the giver of laws. 

HOW TO INVOKE APOLLO:

If you can afford it, get a statue of Apollo. If you can't, print out a picture, get whatever picture frame you can afford, and put the picture in the frame.

Next, on a bright sunny day, find a place (preferably outside) where you will be surrounded by sunlight and undisturbed. Try to pick a time of day when the sun is directly above you. Bring some water with you. If you cast circles, cast a circle, and feel free to enhance this ritual in any way that makes sense to you. Hold your figure of Apollo up into the sunlight, and chant. What you chant should be relatively short and easy to say. It helps if it contains a rhyme or rhythm to it, but neither is required. It should be in your native language and should say something like, "Apollo, mighty Sun God, fill this vessel with your presence". (Come up with your own words.) Chant them over and over. When your arms get tired, you can lower them, just keep the image in the sunlight and keep your hands on the image.

While you are chanting, make eye contact with the image. You should eventually start to feel that the image is looking back at you. He is. Keep chanting the same words, but let them strengthen the sense of presence and awareness you feel in the image. Chant as long as you can. Make the god's presence in your image as strong as possible. It's okay to take a drink--your throat will need it--but when drinking keep the chant going mentally until you're done drinking.

When you're done, take the image home and put it on an altar. At least once a day, place some food and drink on the altar for the god. "As above, so below" means (in part) that all items on this earth have an equivalent in the energy/spirit world, and you are giving this food energy to Apollo to enjoy and strengthen his presence. Do not eat/drink the offerings, throw them away or leave them outside for wildlife. From time to time, also burn incense or do other things that strike you as probably pleasing to the god.

Once you have an altar set up with Apollo, pray to him daily. Make eye contact; part of Apollo's presence resides in your statue/picture. Be open and receptive to impressions, feelings and urges in reply. Always express gratitude whenever you are done interacting with Apollo.

When you feel you have established a strong bond with Apollo, pray mentally to him, and then pause, waiting for a reply. Keep your head quiet but don't impose quiet in your mind, let it be like clay ready for Apollo's touch. If you keep making progress you will eventually feel thoughts form in your head that you didn't put there. That's Apollo, talking back to you.

PRAYER FOR APOLLO:

Apollo, shining son of great Zeus and blessed Leto, twin to Artemis,

Bright-faced god, ever present, ever distant,

We greet you with reverence and awe. 

Clear-eyes Apollo, far-seeing one, sharp-sighted archer, always true of aim, true of vision, true of perception,

Constant guide of poets and musicians, of those who seek beauty, of its creation,

You grant to us the tools of artistry—words drawn from the heart, laid with care, tales told with skill and vigour, prayer and song to honour the gods, melody and harmony,

All the joy and sorrow of our lives transformed. 

Apollo, fire and form of inspiration, I honour you. 

SIGNS THAT APOLLO IS CALLING YOU:

Feeling a strong connection to sunsets and sunrises. 

A connection to music on a deeper level than you ever have before, and randomly hearing or writing songs that include his sacred symbols in some way, can also be a sign that he is close by. 

Idly doodling or drawing his sacred signs and symbols, or suddenly feeling more creative, artistic, and confident than ever before, you can assume that Apollo might be trying to influence you at least a little bit. 

Seeing his sacred animals in unusual places or in synchronistic ways can be a sign that Apollo is near or is trying to get your attention. His sacred animals include but are not limited to ravens, crows, hawks, swans, cicadas, mice, and snakes. 

Sudden interest in divination, such as oracle, tarot, scrying, or charm casting can be a sign that Apollo is wanting to connect with you. 

Wanting to suddenly learn poetry. 

OFFERINGS:

Sun water. 

Music (all kinds).

Foods and drinks: wine diluted with pure water, milk, herbal teas, honey and honey cakes, orange or lemon pastries, lamb or goat meat, fruits (mainly citrus fruit), cheeses, wheat, breads, chocolates with orange or lemon flavours, bay leaves, sunflower seeds, and almonds. 

Olive oil. 

Golden objects such as gold bowls, gold wine cups, flakes of gold, etc.

Bows and arrows, toys, or art. 

Images or art of the sun. 

All musical instruments, especially stringed instruments. 

Wolf and/or dolphin imagery. 

Any images of birds, especially crows and swans. 

Yellow, gold, and white candles. 

Incense such as frankincense or myrrh. 

Laurel wreaths, tree branches or leaves. 

Gems such as amber, sunstone, and yellow sapphires. 

Aloe vera. 

Bandaids. 

Poetry you’ve written. 

Music you’ve written. 

Art you’ve drawn. 

Flowers such as lily of the valley, anise, and sunflowers. 

Photos you’ve taken. 

Concert tickets. 

Golden jewelry or jewelry of the sun or arrows. 

LGBTQ+ flags. 

Divination items (tarot cards, pendulums, etc).

Art, toys, or photos of swans, hawks, ravens, serpents, wolves, dolphins, griffins, and mice.

Sunscreen. 

All bird feathers, especially swan and raven feathers. 

DEVOTIONAL ACTS:

Support up-and-coming/indie artists and musicians. 

Sing to Him. 

Play musical instruments for Him. 

Hold dance parties. 

Try and wake up early and watch the sun rise. 

Make a playlist for Him and listen to it daily. 

Read poetry to Him

Take care of your mental health and remember to take your medicine, if you have any. 

Try different types of divination. 

Go for a walk and feel the warmth from the sun. 

Let more sunlight into your home/room. 

Learn a musical instrument or how to sing. 

Sunbathe. 

Learn simple medical care, like CPR. 

Dance (all kinds).

Learn about His history, His mother’s history, and His sister’s history. 

Try archery. 

Learn about His lovers. 

Attend pride. 

Support LGBTQ+ rights. 

Wear yellow or orange clothing. 

Honour Leto and Artemis. 

Pray to Him and speak to Him often, things to consider praying for are guidance, healing/good health, inspiration, a prophecy or truth. 

Exercising. 

Get vaccinated. 

[galusandmalus]

cephalus and Procris get a happy ending?????????? maybe???

we all know the story of Cephalus as one with a sad af ending, where he accidentally killed his love after finally being free from Eos. but I stumbled upon a strange ending after that by Lembus "The god told Cephalus, when he was consulting the oracle about children, to have sexual intercourse with whomever he should encounter first. He met a bear and through intercourse with the bear (arctus), he begot a woman, by whom it is said that Arceisius was appropriately named" -Heraclides Lembus, On Constitutions HMMMMMMM A BEAR HUH GEEE it kinda REMINDS me of how a different god Did bear things "She chose to occupy herself with wild-beasts in the mountains together with Artemis, and, when she was seduced by Zeus, continued some time undetected by the goddess, but afterwards, when she was already with child, was seen by her bathing and so discovered. Upon this, the goddess was enraged and changed her into a beast. Thus she became a bear and gave birth to a son called Arcas" -Hesiod HMMHMM HMMMM goddess of the hunt sure is connected to bears. but its not like she would be connected to the cephalus/procris myth-

"When Diana saw her, she said to her : ‘virgins hunt with me, but you are not a virgin, leave my company.’ Procris revealed to her her misfortune and told her that she had been deceived by Aurora [Eos the Dawn]. Diana, moved by pity, gave her a javelin which no one could avoid, and the dog Laelaps which no wild beast could escape, and bade her go contend with Cephalus. With her hair cut, and in young man's attire, by the will of Diana [Artemis], she came to Cephalus and challenged him, and surpassed him in the hunt. When Cephalus saw that javelin and Dog were so irresistible, he asked the stranger to sell them to him, not knowing she was his wife. She refused. He promised her also a share in his kingdom [of Phokis]; she still refused. ‘But if,’ she said, ‘you really continue to want this, grant me what boys are won to grant.’ Inflamed by desire for the javelin and the Dog, he promised he would. When they had come into the bed-chamber, Procris took off her tunic and showed that she was a woman and his wife. Cephalus took the gifts and came again into her favour." -Pseudo-Hyginus, Fabulae

wow Procris uses a disguise> "devoted to the arts Diana [Artemis] loved . . . [After begging for Prokris' forgiveness she returned to him and] she gave me [Kephalos] too, as though herself were gift of small account, a hound [Lailaps] her own Cynthia [Artemis] had given her, saying ‘He'll outrun them all.’ The javelin too she gave me which you see." -Ovid, Metamorphoses 7. 732 ff (trans. Melville) (Roman epic C1st B.C. to C1st A.D.) :

HMMMMMMMMMMMMMM wowie thats CRAZY, right she really gained favor with artemis/ diana just by being sad af

I THINK lembus was trying to make a connection of the bear BEING procris somehow returned by artemis/diana. the bear connection to the goddess, the fact that the bear never gets a name but the child birthed from the union IS. and in other sources THAT CHILD IS THE CHILD OF CEPHELUS AND PROCRIS "Procris. By her Cephalus had a son Arcesius, whose son was Laertes, Ulysses' father" -Hyginus, Fabulae

ladies and gentleman and that person over there I think the bear and Procris might be the same. i think the god is artemis/diana. and I think I might be in denial about a very sad story. this is my interpretation of Lembus's work.

happy ending jumpscare

[tired-pidgeon]

A China-based startup just released DeepSeek, a new AI model that the company said was produced in 2 months for under $6 million. In comparison, Meta alone said it plans to spend $65 Billion on AI this year. OpenAI is spending $100k-$700k a DAY to run their AI models.

DeepSeek is good enough to rival ChatGPT and Anthropic, and has an open-source model

(Source: CNN, watch from 2:38 onward)

Meanwhile, Trump just announced the Stargate Project, an AI investment initiative that includes OpenAI, Arm, Nvidia and Oracle. The project aims to invest $500 billion over the next four years to build data centers across the U.S. that will support AI models and allow them to continue developing

DeepSeek’s launch — it is now the most downloaded app on the App Store, ahead of ChatGPT — caused tech stocks to fall today, but according to tech consultant Shelly Palmer during the linked interview with CNN, American tech companies are likely to rise to this challenge.

The wide disparity in cost and training time between the DeepSeek and other AI models is staggering, and it begs some questions: how did DeepSeek do it faster and cheaper? Are they telling the truth? Why haven’t American firms figured this out? Why are American firms charging so much?

Mr Palmer attributes this to the different ways AI models functions. DeepSeek relies on algorithmic efficiency, while American AI models rely on brute force. Mr Palmer notes that since China has had restricted access to chips and tech (thanks to U.S. sanctions), it has had to find another way to solve the problem.

If I were to take an optimistic perspective, I’d hope that this new model will encourage American companies to step up their game and create even more efficient models. It’s the open market after all. I hope this will result in the reduction of AI’s environmental damage, which is currently proceeding on an unsustainable level. AI can be good or bad, but its current devouring of limited resources is unbearable. I’m glad DeepSeek was able to find a better way to create a more efficient model. Not only that, but since its model is open source, anyone can look at it and learn from it. It could actually prove to be an important springboard for AI technology

If I were to take a pessimistic perspective, the U.S. might take this as a threat instead of an invitation to innovate and win in the free market. TheUS might impose even more isolationist policies, possibly banning tech apps from China and ironically creating its own Great Firewall. In doing so, its people are stuck having to rely on domestic AI models, while China���s influence in the tech sphere grows through the rest of the world. Meanwhile, the US continues to spread Sinophobia and consequently misses out on new tech because it is throwing a tantrum at not having figured out the AI puzzle first, possibly accusing DeepSeek of IP theft

[bellobambino]

The Claim That Broke the Camel's Back

828 words

Summary: Frustrated CS student, Luigi Mangione, battles the maddening bureaucracy of his insurance company while juggling midterms and back pain. An underwhelming trip to Panda Express inspires him to make a change. Luigi's POV Author's Note: I could write about incompetent insurance reps all day. My whole life is working with this broken fucking system. Free Luigi.

I'm on my third cold brew of the day to get ready for this evening Machine Learning lecture. I'm wired, to say the least. I've written down a few questions I have for the professor that I'm hoping will be covered by the midterm review he's “gifting” us today. 

"Good evening, folks!" he booms, addressing the class. There’s a few murmurs from some students giving a half hearted hello. "I was debating whether or not to make a midterm review for this section of the course. Considering your test scores from February..." 

My phone vibrates with a 1800 number I know all too well. Dammit. I've been waiting a whole week for them to call me back about this billing mistake. I can’t believe they’re calling right now, but I have to settle this billing issue. I sigh, and claw my way out of the row of backpacks and purses, answering the phone as quietly as possible.

“Hello, this is Luigi.” I spit it out like I've said it a thousand times, flinging open the back door to the main hallway.

“Hi, Luigi, this is Tiffany calling from Blue Cross Blue Shield. I’m returning your call about a claim you want to appeal.”

Appeal? Appeal. Because nothing says "customer service" like making me clean up a mess they made and then gaslighting me about it.

I’m whisper-shouting now, rehashing for the millionth time how I never got the bill they insist they mailed to an address I haven’t lived at since MySpace peaked. Tiffany’s hitting me with the most insincere “mm-hmm”s—" i've ever heard.

“Why did you send the orthopedic bill to my parents�� house? I don’t live there,” I say, trying to keep the vein in my temple from exploding.

“Mr. Mangione, can you confirm your address for me, please?”

Confirm my address? I swear to God, these people couldn’t find their own ass with both hands and a Garmin. “Which address do you have on file for me? Because you’re sending this bill to Maryland, and I live in Pennsylvania.”

Tiffany pauses like she’s consulting the Oracle of Delphi. “Mr. Mangione, I’ll need you to confirm your mailing address in order to continue discussing your account.”

Breathe, Luigi. Breathe. “Fine. 212 Fairway Lane, Baltimore, Maryland, 20906.”

There’s the familiar clackity-clack of her keyboard, a sound I’ve come to associate with malicious incompetence. “Okay, Mr. Mangione, can I put you on hold?”

“Hold? You guys are killing me. I’m a full-time student; you called me in the middle of a lecture.”

“I’ll need to review your account information in order to transfer the case to the billing department.”

Hold on. “You’re not the billing department?”

There’s a pause so thick you could spread it on toast. “This is the claims department.”

I could scream. I peek through the window of the lecture hall door. The TA’s handing out the review sheet, and I’m out here playing phone tag with someone who doesn’t even have the power to solve this issue. “Alright, Tiffany, can you just give me the billing department’s direct line? So I can call when i'm not in class.”

She rattles off a number. I punch it into my phone notes like I’m defusing a bomb. I thank her—halfheartedly, because I was raised right- and hang up.

I'm back in my seat, having missed the professor going over test expectations. I unlock my phone and look at the number Tiffany gave me. Wait. I look at my recent call log.

No way. It’s the exact same number I’ve been calling for weeks. The member services line. An automated phone directory service that will "connect you to the best department", but only sends you in circles for hours just to disconnect you when you’re waiting to speak with a supervisor.

They’ve already threatened to send the bill to collections—a bill I’ve never even seen. They told me the procedure was 100% covered. Now I’m supposed to fork over cash I don’t have for something they said I didn’t owe in the first place.

Back at my dorm, I'm eating Panda Express alone like a fucking schmuck. The noodles taste like cardboard. I’d kill for my Ma's chicken parm. I gotta call her.

I finish up, and grab the take out bag to throw away the container. 

Oh, thats right. There’s the fortune cookie. I almost chuck it in the trash, but ... maybe Lu deserves a little treat today.

I crack open the cookie, shoving one half in my mouth, and unfurl the little piece of paper.

Be the change you want to see in the world.

I immediately roll my eyes. The change I want to see is insurance companies prioritizing patients' well being over shareholder profit. If I could do anything about that, I would. Trust me, I would.

I tape the fortune to the inside of my laptop, right next to the sticker of Breloom my sister gave me, and fling myself onto my bed. 

Be the change. Maybe I could.

[collapsedsquid]

Dalio​ became more and more preoccupied with establishing a reputation as a guru. He talked often about Bridgewater’s ‘Principles’, a set of obiter dicta he had established over the years, which codified the rules for what the New Yorker’s John Cassidy called ‘the world’s richest and strangest hedge fund’. The idea was to create a culture of radical candour. All of Bridgewater’s employees were supposed to give one another constant feedback. Especially negative feedback. One Principle was that ‘No one has the right to hold a critical opinion without speaking up.’ It was forbidden to criticise anybody in their absence: you had to say everything straight to the subject’s face. Everyone at Bridgewater was given a tablet computer that they were supposed to fill with ‘dots’, positive or negative, giving constant ratings on every aspect of the company and their colleagues. The offices were full of cameras and sound equipment recording interactions between staff, all of it added to a Transparency Library, where it could be viewed by other members of staff, who would then provide feedback. Employees handed over their personal phones on arriving at work, and were allowed to use only monitored company phones; computer keystrokes were tracked. The surveillance and feedback were put to use. Failings resulted in ‘probings’ or public interrogations, often led by Dalio, in which the employee would be grilled on what they had done wrong, in search of the higher truth – the deeper, underlying weakness – that had caused it to happen. Dalio had visited China and liked what he saw, so he incorporated into Bridgewater a system in which Principles Captains, Auditors and Overseers vied in supervising their application and reported to a body called the Politburo. Videos of employees being caught violating a Principle, then probed, then promising to mend their ways, were assembled and used to inculcate the Principles. One series of videos, of a senior colleague caught in a untruth, was called ‘Eileen Lies’. Another, in which a newly pregnant senior colleague was publicly humiliated and reduced to tears, was called ‘Pain + Reflection = Progress’. Dalio was so pleased with that one he emailed it to all of Bridgewater’s thousand employees, and instructed that a version of it be shown to people applying for jobs at the firm. Expressing too much sympathy for the victim was an excellent way of failing to be offered a job. ‘Sugarcoating creates sugar addiction’ was a Principle. One of Dalio’s visions was to have the Principles encoded into software so that Bridgewaterians who needed a steer on what to do could consult the oracle. The project took more than a decade, cost $100 million and never produced anything useful, mainly because the Principles, all 375 of them, are a load of platitudinous, self-contradictory mince.

[brimo5]

The Other Zeus

To you, ruler of all—whether you favour the name Zeus or Hades

Finally, I finished my first draft about syncretism of Zeus and Hades.

Let's start with the most important reference to Triple Zeus in the sources, which comes from Pausanias, who cites Homer and Aeschylus to corroborate his view without mentioning Orpheus at all. In fact, he known Orpheus' poetry(1.14.3) but he didn't think the idea came from Orpheus.

The reason for its three eyes one might infer to be this. That Zeus is king in heaven is a saying common to all men. As for him who is said to rule under the earth, there is a verse of Homer which calls him, too, Zeus: "Zeus Katachthonios (of the underworld), and the august Persephonea." The god in the sea, also, is called Zeus by Aeschylus, the son of Euphorion. So whoever made the image made it with three eyes, as signifying that this same god rules in all the three "allotments" of the universe, as they are called. (Pausanias, Description of Greece 2.24.4)

As Pausanias says, "Zeus of the underworld (Ζεύς τε καταχθόνιος)" is a title that dates back to Homer (9.457). In Hesiod's Work and Hours (465) , we can find "chthonian Zeus (Διὶ χθονίῳ)". Also, "Zeus of the departed" and "the other Zeus" in Aeschylus' play (Aesch. Suppl. 156–57, 231).

A fragment of Euripides ,points more directly to a god who can be called both Zeus and Hades and rule over heaven and underworld:

To you, ruler of all—whether you favour the name Zeus or Hades—I bring fresh greenery and liquid meal; accept, I beg you, this unburned offering of all kinds of produce, poured forth in abundance. For you wield the sceptre of Zeus amongst the gods of heaven, and also share with Hades the rule of those within the earth. Send into the light the souls of the dead for those who wish to learn the trials awaiting them—whence they have grown, what is the root of their woes, which of the gods they should appease with sacrifice and so find respite from their tribulations. (Euripides, fr.912 loeb=Clement of Alexandria, Stromata, 5.11.70=P. Oxy. 9.1176)

On the reign of Ptolemy I, a "new" god was introduced to the Greeks. His image is the most widely recognized image of Hades nowadays. Befor the essential identity of Sarapis and Osiris received wide acceptance among Greeks and Egyptians, according to Diodorus, the question of the identity of this Greek god with an Egyptian influence was complex.

Osiris has been given the name Sarapis by some, Dionysus by others, Pluto by others, Ammon by others, Zeus by some, and many have considered Pan to be the same god; and some say that Sarapis is the god whom the Greeks call Pluto. (Diodorus Siculus, Library, 1.25.1)

In the origin myth of Sarapis, we can see a continuation of Zeus and Hades syncretism. In Tacitus' version, the origin of Sarapis is linked to Iovis Ditis, who was the company of Proserpina and father of Apollo.

The origin of this God Serapis has not hitherto been made generally known by our writers. The Egyptian priests give this account...Timotheus, questioning persons who had found their way to Pontus, learnt that there was there a city Sinope, and near it a temple, which, according to an old tradition of the neighbourhood, was sacred to the infernal Jupiter(Iovis Ditis), for there also stood close at hand a female figure, to which many gave the name of Proserpine...Ptolemy then gave directions that an embassy should be despatched with presents to king Scydrothemis, who at that time ruled the people of Sinope, and instructed them, when they were on the point of sailing, to consult the Pythian Apollo.Their voyage was prosperous, and the response of the oracle was clear. The God bade them go and carry back with them the image of his father, but leave that of his sister behind. (Tacitus, Histories 4.83ff)

Plutarch recounts the same one in the story, but he explicitly identifies Sarapis as Plouton. This is confirmed by the Athenian Timotheus on the basis of the features of the statue, he was from the priestly family of Eleusis, which was the stronghold of the worshipping of Plouton.

There, when they came to offer the usual sacrifices for their safe landing, they came to understand that, of two statues which were in the place, they were to take that of Pluto and carry it along with them; but as for that of Proserpina, they were only to take the mould and leave the statue itself behind. (Plutarch, Which Animals Are the Craftiest, 36)

When therefore it was conveyed thither and viewed, Timotheus the expositor and Manetho the Sebennite, concluding from the Cerberus and serpent that stood by it that it must be the statue of Pluto, persuaded Ptolemy it could appertain to no other God but Serapis; for he had not this name when he came from thence, but after he was removed to Alexandria, he acquired the name of Serapis, which is the Egyptian for Pluto. (Plutarch, Of Isis and Osiris, Moralia, 28)

However, Sarapis isn't confined to the role of Plouton for long, in addition to agriculture and death, he is the lord of the universe, in charge of marine navigation, healing, prophecy, the sun, and so on.

It will be clear that he was connected in some fashion with Pluto, Osiris, Dionysus, Asclepius, and Apis within a hundred years of Alexander the Great's death in 323 B.C., and that in the following years his syncretistic divinity was extended to include Helius and Zeus.(p6) The phrase "Zeus Helius Great Sarapis" was an exceedingly common formula in the second and third centuries A.D.(p79) (John E. Stambaugh, Sarapis under the Early Ptolemies)

Ultimately, we find in the book of Macrobius the hymn that are consigned to the name of Orpheus:

One Zeus, One Hades, One Helios, One Dionysus (Macrobius, Saturnalia, 1.18.17=OF 239. cf. Julian, Hymn to King Helios, 137)

The divinity of Hades is undoubtedly associated with Zeus, he is the underworld reflection of Zeus, the eternal semblance of Zeus, and has grown in stature over the course of history. The closeness of Hades and Zeus in mythology is not just a narrative preference, but a true reflection of religion and traditional culture.

Bonus: Before the One descended into the underworld, the Lord of the Underworld remained by his brother's side.

The Zeus turned to his brother Serapis, and pointing to Vespasian said, Send this niggard from Egypt forthwith to extinguish the flames.  (The Caesars, 311)

[babyrdie]

Okay, I know it's common knowledge here that Teucer shares his name with King Teucer, who ruled over the region that would later become known as Trojan territory. That he's named after a figure from Trojan history isn't strange, since his mother, Hesione, was a Trojan princess and Priam's sister. The interesting part is that the Homeric scholia says this:

...you, though a bastard child (καί σε νόθον περ᾿ ἐόντα) When Heracles sacked Troy, he took as prisoner Hesione, the daughter of Laomedon (and sister of Priam), and gave her as a war-prize to Telamon because he had fought with him. Telamon fathered Teucros by her. Because he had been born of a Trojan woman, they called the child “Teúcros,” moving the accent back to create a proper noun. For the Trojans are called Teucroí after one of their rulers, Teucros. The story has been told in more detail by many, including Apollonios the grammatikos in the second book of On Generations.

Translation by R. Scott Smith et al.

In other words, in this version told here by the scholia, Teucroi/Teucrians would be a kind of synonym for Trojans because of King Teucer/Teucros. The scholia even uses the term as a synonym here:

[a bane] unto himself, since he did not know the gods’ decrees ([κακὸν...] οἷ τ᾿ αὐτῷ, ἐπεὶ οὔ τι θεῶν ἐκ θέσφατα ᾔδη) When the Lacedaimonians were overcome by famine, they consulted an oracle about a solution. The god told them to placate the deities of the Teucrians (this is what the people of Troy were called previously). [...]

Translation by R. Scott Smith et al.

The scholia says “this is what the people of Troy were called previously” probably because, in the myth, even the term “Trojan” comes from a king named Tros. Tros was the inspiration for the name Troy, which is why the inhabitants were called Trojans. In the same way, mythology tries to explain the name “Dardanus” with the character Dardanus and the name “Illium” with the character Ilus. The name “Mount Ida” maybe was related to the nymph Idaea, who had Teucer with the river Scamander, or even Idaeus, one of the sons of Dardanus.

Some sources mention characters that are considered eponymous, but I’ll only present Library as an example because it brings all three of them together:

[...] That country was ruled by a king, Teucer, son of the river Scamander and of a nymph Idaea, and the inhabitants of the country were called Teucrians after Teucer. Being welcomed by the king, and having received a share of the land and the king's daughter Batia, he built a city Dardanus, and when Teucer died he called the whole country Dardania. And he had sons born to him, Ilus and Erichthonius, of whom Ilus died childless, and Erichthonius succeeded to the kingdom and marrying Astyoche, daughter of Simoeis, begat Tros. On succeeding to the kingdom, Tros called the country Troy after himself [...] [...] there Ilus built a city and called it Ilium. [...]

Pseudo-Apollodorus’ Library, 3.12.1-3. Translation by J.G. Frazer.

In the case of Mount Ida, here is an example with Idaeus:

[...] Idaeus, the son of Dardanus, with part of the company occupied the mountains which are now called after him the Idaean mountains, and there built a temple to the Mother of the Gods and instituted mysteries and ceremonies which are observed to this day throughout all Phrygia. And Dardanus built a city named after himself in the region now called the Troad; the land was given to him by Teucer, the king, after whom the country was anciently called Teucris.

Dionysus Helicarnassus’ Roman Antiquities. Translation by Earnest Cary and Edward Spelman.

Establishing here the idea that these local names were attributed as homage to these mythological characters, it’s interesting that the scholia says “because he had been born of a Trojan woman, they called the child “Teúcros,” moving the accent back to create a proper noun. For the Trojans are called Teucroí after one of their rulers, Teucros”. The scholia doesn’t say “the name was in honor of the king”, the scholia says that the inspiration was the word itself that designated the Trojan people. In other words, Teucer was basically named after not a specific man, but his mother’s people as a whole, who were once named after that man. And the scholia doesn't say "Hesione named him", the scholia says "they". So this was probably a decision by more than one person. Telamon and Hesione, probably. I can see Hesione naming her son this because she wants to remember her home, after all she's not there because she wants to be (she's a captive), but Telamon? It's interesting that the apparent scholia indicates that Telamon agreed. I doubt he did it out of kindness, Telamon is usually consistently portrayed as a character with a bad temper (for example, see Apollonius Rhodius' Argonautica). Could it be that, in this case, Telamon wanted to sinalize Teucer as a half-Trojan boy? Not out of kindness to Hesione, but as a way of accentuating Teucer as a bastard of foreign blood? After all, he did indeed have favoritism towards Ajax, this is also consistent in the myth (see, for example, how he banished Teucer from Salamis because he blamed him for Ajax's death. In Sophocles' Ajax this element is emphasized). Also, a character called the equivalent of "Trojan" helping to destroy Troy is something… to think about. The possibility that Teucer was named after the people rather than the man makes it all the more interesting.

Anyway, I think this is headcanon. Of course, it seems quite purposeful that he is given a Trojan name as far as the narrative is concerned, but I honestly don't think they were thinking about specific details like Hesione and Telamon's inner motivations for the name when this was written. But I like my new headcanon!

[nijatech]