#QA Best Practices

[ganesh0609]

Qa & Software Testing

We design, develop, implement, manage and optimize access to systems and information to answer your business processing, application and infrastructure needs.

[softweb-solutions]

What is test automation: Ultimate guide and best practices 

Businesses have realized the importance of software development and quality assurance. To ensure the smooth functioning of software products and applications, testing plays a crucial role. 

Automation Testing Market size was valued at USD 19.9 Billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 89.81 Billion by 2030. –Verified Market Research

Test automation services have emerged as a game-changer in this arena. It is revolutionizing the way software is tested for functionality, performance and reliability. This article dives deep into the world of test automation, uncovering its services, benefits, best practices and its role in the realm of quality assurance.

What is test automation?

Test automation involves the use of specialized software tools to automate the execution of tests on software applications. Unlike manual testing, where testers execute test cases manually, test automation involves creating scripts that can perform these tests automatically. These speed up the testing process, reduce human error and enhance the accuracy of test results.

Understanding test automation services

Test automation services encompass a range of offerings provided by specialized companies. These services include designing and implementing automated test scripts, integrating testing frameworks and setting up continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines. By leveraging these services, organizations can ensure a robust testing process that aligns with their development lifecycle.

Advantages of test automation

Efficiency: Automated tests can be executed much faster than manual tests, enabling quicker feedback during development.

Accuracy: Automated tests are consistent and free from human error, leading to reliable and repeatable results.

Regression testing: Automated tests are ideal for performing regression testing, ensuring that new changes don't adversely affect existing functionalities.

Cost savings: While initial setup might require investment, automated testing ultimately reduces the need for extensive manual testing, saving time and money. 

Test automation best practices

Selective test cases: Not all test cases are suitable for automation. Choose test cases that are repetitive, time-consuming and critical for the application's functionality.

Regular maintenance: Automated tests require maintenance as the software evolves. Keep scripts up to date to reflect changes in the application.

Parallel execution: Run tests in parallel to expedite the testing process and obtain faster results.

Data management: Efficiently manage test data to ensure tests are robust and adaptable to different scenarios.  

Insights

Discover The Power of QA Automation Testing Services

Assurance testing. Before the application is made public or sent to the client, it needs to have addressed every issue and bug that might have crept in during the coding of the application. Delegating a dedicated engineer to perform manual tests can get cumbersome.

Download

Exploring Automated Testing as a Service (ATaaS)

Automated Testing as a Service (ATaaS) is a comprehensive solution that offers automated testing capabilities on a cloud-based platform. This service allows teams to access testing infrastructure remotely, enabling seamless collaboration and scalability.

The role of QA software testing companies

QA software testing companies play a pivotal role in driving effective test automation strategies. These companies specialize in providing expertise in test automation tools, frameworks and methodologies. They assist organizations in implementing test automation effectively, thus enhancing the overall quality of software products.

Benefits of QA automation testing

To delve even deeper into the advantages of test automation, consider referring our blog where we have highlighted the benefits of QA automation testing. As seen in this resource from Softweb Solutions, QA automation testing offers substantial advantages that complement the overall software development process. From improved test coverage to quicker time-to-market, these benefits solidify the importance of embracing automation in the testing lifecycle.

Leverage test automation for better quality of your software products

In the ever-evolving landscape of software development, test automation has emerged as an indispensable tool to ensure the quality, reliability and performance of applications. By leveraging test automation services and adhering to best practices, organizations can streamline their testing processes and deliver exceptional software products to their users.

FAQs related to test automation

1. Is test automation suitable for all types of testing?

Answer: Test automation is best suited for repetitive and time-consuming tests, such as regression testing, performance testing and load testing.

2. What are some popular test automation tools?

Answer: Some widely used test automation tools include Selenium, Appium and JUnit.

3. Can test automation replace manual testing entirely?

Answer: While test automation offers efficiency, it's not a complete replacement for manual testing. Certain scenarios still require human judgment and exploratory testing.

4. How often should automated test scripts be updated?

Answer: Automated test scripts should be regularly updated to align with changes in the application's functionality and features.

5. What role does continuous integration play in test automation?

Answer: Continuous integration ensures that automated tests are seamlessly integrated into the development process, providing rapid feedback to developers.

Originally published at medium.com on November 23rd, 2023.

[flying-womrats]

replacements for a few LMS mods

If you think you saw this post yesterday, yes you did- then I made a couple edits and realized I should have done it under a readmore in case people reblogged it... So here we go again! These are the possible replacements I found for the littlemssam mods I was using, in case they help anyone else.

Caveats: - Often not a 1:1 replacement. - I only went looking for replacements for mods I was actually using, so this only covers a fraction of her catalog. - Most of these modders still use Curseforge, they're just not exclusive to it.

Additionally, if anyone knows of a replacement for any of the following: Go For A Walk, Improved Meditation Stool, Improved Practical Spells (the improvements to the spells themselves,) No Random Job Offers (I know BosseladyTV has one, but it's CF exclusive,) Purchased Items Delivered By Mail, Release All The Ghosts, or Tea For Children, please drop me an ask! I only request no Curseforge exclusives and no Zer0.

On to the list:

Allow Stoves in University Housing -> Zerbu, No University Housing Restrictions

Auto Employees -> Kuttoe's "X Everywhere" mods, Zerbu's Spawn Refresh

Auto-Light Fireplaces Only When Cold -> Bienchen, fireplaceautonomytweak

Buy Treats via PC -> Bienchen, buypettreat

Calendar Tweaks -> Kuttoe, Less Frequent Prom (caveat: takes time to start working, especially if you're using a longer season setting)

Cookbooks -> ClaudiaSharon, Cook Experimental/Cultural/Jungle Food Without Tasting It First

Immortality Potion Fix -> Kuttoe, Potions Rework (only a half replacement- removes the VFX, but doesn't lock aging like the Scarlet/LMS mod)

Kids Can Walk Dogs -> ChippedSim, Paws & Claws (A Sim's Best Friend module)

More Away Actions -> Bienchen, awayactions (is actually included in the LMS mod)

No Burning Sun in Forgotten Hollow -> TwistedMexi, Daywalkers + Underworlds (caveat: per TMex's comment on the latter, the eternal night is only cosmetic and still requires Daywalkers for vampires to come out at "daytime". Also, Daywalkers affects all worlds. Still interested in a mod closer to LMS's if one exists!)

No Insects Herbalism -> Simularity, Improved Herbalism Potions & Features

No Shoe Sign Animation -> Lotharihoe, Shoe Sign Animation Tweaks (doesn't remove the animation entirely but does stop it from interrupting walking)

No Sick, Dirty, Sad and Hungry Pets -> Bienchen, catanddogsanity

Pregnancy Overhaul ("sims can do more" part) -> Bienchen, pregnantsimscandomore

Pregnancy Overhaul (belly sizes) -> t0nischwartz, No Bump or sonozakisisterssims4, "The belly in pregnancy depends on the number of babies" (the former is simpler but has no equivalent to the "larger belly" option, the latter has a bit more going on but has direct equivalents to LMS's sizes, so take your pick!)

Sleep All Night and Sleep In -> Midnitetech- Stay Asleep, Mokunoid- Better Sleep Autonomy or Lot 51- Sunrise depending on desired depth/customization

Social Activities -> adeepindigo, Youth, Friends and Family Activities

Small GF Reactions Overhaul -> Bienchen, lesscelebreact

Small Laundry Overhaul -> Bienchen's laundry mods cover some (but not all- anyone have something to make it cost money on community lots?) of it, along with Lotharihoe's No Autonomously Set Laundry Down to replace the "auto put away laundry" part.

Spar With For Everyone -> Bienchen, sparwithfornonmilitary

Toddler Ask For Food No Junk -> Bienchen, healthyhighchair (not quite the same thing but it solves the "why do they always give the kid chips" issue at least)

WEE: Working Elevators Everywhere -> Ravasheen, Uplifting Elevators (space and wall height permitting, it's also possible to make no-CC elevators with the RoM debug portals!)

Wellness Treat Fix -> Bienchen, petanxiousbufffix

Also, while I wasn't using either of them myself, Meet&Mingle can replace SimDa Dating App, and Lovestruck adds a "canon" dating app (though given EA's complete lack of attention to QA etc. I wouldn't recommend paying for it.)

edit 6/26/24: added Sunrise, petanxiousbufffix, pregnantsimscandomore

edit 6/27/24: added No Bump, moved into a new post.

edit 6/29/24: added Daywalkers, No University Housing Restrictions (ty @northernnightsky!) and the sonozakisisters bump mod

edit 7/2/24: added Underworlds (ty anon), Paws & Claws, and a link to the tutorial I followed for no-CC elevators

edit 8/22/24: added Spawn Refresh

[97-liners]

and. this is all technical and doesn't really matter because the dev team should be putting in the work not you, but best practices for writing up support tickets

if you have a bug, be specific, include screenshots if possible, and include the specific workflow that gets you there if possible. if it works in one scenario and not the other, include the cases where it works as well as the cases where it fails

if you have an enhancement, suggested fixes are nice but make sure to include what the issue is. like instead of saying "give me a button to do xyz", try to mention "xyz is a core functionality that is currently locked behind 4 screens or via a workaround. i do xyz every time i post a gifset, so i would like a way to do this faster. a button on the post editor interface would be the best"

anyways this is not an important addition but helpful support tickets usually work better than "prev tags is broken pls fix" at getting your issue fixed

btw, after working for 4 years in tech making an end-user facing product, i've become way more receptive to ui and functionality changes because i know what it's like to be the person making them. nobody ever likes change, and ppl will complain about every single update regardless of it it's more intuitive and saves clicks or not.

BUT. if you have issues with tumblr's updates (believe me i have A LOT), consider submitting a support ticket and flagging it correctly as feedback or as the proper bug category.

if tumblr works like any other tech company works, that's likely your best bet to getting your issues prioritized during project backlog meetings.

[cpericardium]

This is the story of the time I interviewed at Ubisoft.

When I was a teenager, I became obsessed with the Bioshock series and got it into my head that I wanted to do game design for a living. I'd never seriously attempted it nor did I know exactly what it entailed, but how hard could it be? I gamed!! I had ideas!! I said this to my teacher during a what do you want to be when you grow up talk, and she said, "Oh! My sister works at Ubisoft Singapore. I'll get you an interview."

Emails were exchanged, and someone at the company arranged a "quick chat" with me a couple of weeks later. It was for a QA tester intern position, which I reasoned was sort of like game design. After all, in the Sims 3 it's one rung on the ladder to becoming a game developer. Also I didn't want to anger my teacher. She was quite volatile.

Round 1:

I'd never done a job interview before. I put on a nice blouse and pencil skirt and heels, nervously applied and reapplied makeup which I normally did not wear, and showed up at the office building an hour early. Then as I went up the elevator I realised they never said what room it was. I couldn't very well email to ask now. I'd look like an idiot!! Fuck!! So for an hour, I just skulked around outside various glass doors peering into offices hoping there would be some receptionist around to ask, but there was practically no one there. The email only said "let's have a quick chat at 2pm on x date".

I was about to slink home with my tail between my legs when the interviewer called at the scheduled time. It was a phone interview!!!!! He didn't say that!!!!! I found a dingy secluded stairwell. As if to taunt me, one of the first questions he asked was "have you ever been to the building?"

Me, through gritted teeth: yeah! actually I'm here right now, haha... to scope it out, you know... get a lay of the land..... it's really big... Lots of glass walls...

Him: oh that's nice.

I don't remember most of the questions, but I do know he asked me what my favourite games were. I said Undertale and Life is Strange (they had come out that year), but he'd never heard of them. Maybe I should've said Far Cry or something but what if he quizzed me on it?

Round 2:

I should not have made it to this round. I was coasting entirely on the goodwill of my teacher's sister, who was high up the chain. She interviewed me next. I think her only question was whether I would be okay working long gruelling hours with little support and no overtime.

Me, blissfully unaware of crunch culture being a massive human rights issue in the industry: bring it on!!

Her: what? 🤨

Then she ushered me into a room to take a pencil and paper test. While waiting earlier, I'd frantically googled and memorised a bunch of Ubisoft games, so I could answer the one asking me to list eight of them. I figured I could have gotten away with saying Assassin's Creed and adding a random number to the back though.

The biggest problem was on the other side of the paper: a diagram of a gaming controller asking me to label the buttons. Here's the thing. I'm a PC gamer. Always have been. At the time, my only experience with console gaming was playing Little Big Planet with my best friend when I was twelve, at her house. And I wasn't very good at it! I think I fundamentally lack the hand-eye coordination for console gaming, but that's just a guess because I can count on one hand the number of times I've ever used a controller. And I can count on one hand the number of controllers I have in that hand! It's zero! I knew the wiggly antennae were for movement and the buttons on the sides did esoteric things that people will yell at you to press during crucial moments, but that was it. I ended up labelling the buttons the shapes they were (circle button, triangle button, square button etc).

The interviewer came back into the room after about 15 minutes and said I now had an hour to play an unfinished level of Assassin's Creed, identify as many bugs as possible, and record them on a spreadsheet. And even though she set me up at a computer monitor, I still had to use a controller. Are you kidding me! This was the Victorian era Assassin's Creed. I had never played any AC games before, so I didn't know what were bugs and what were features. Was "can't jump" a bug? Was "invisible wall surrounding staircases"? What was the format and lingo you were supposed to use when recording bugs? I made no progress towards the quest at all (I did not understand it or who my character was), just wandered around and wrote down things I noticed and didn't like until time was up.

Anyway, that's the tale of how I didn't get a job I was woefully unprepared and underqualified for and in retrospect didn't want all that much. Maybe what I really wanted was to be... was Ayn Rand.

[fayesemblemring]

Lately because of my job I have to reluctantly use Gemini for the sake of testing it (for context I work as a mobile QA tester. Not gonna say any more than that because I'm a big fan of not doxxing myself) and after having to repeatedly try it for days I started noticing a couple of things.

First things first: When critics say genAI is basically just a fancy autocomplete, that is a huge understatement.

Since my tests consist of giving it various prompts and making sure the answers are correct, I had to look closely at the answers. And aside from bugs like it randomly coughing up words in Russian which I mean, that's what I'm there to help fix, I started noticing quickly that a lot of the responses are basically identical.

Sure, the context may vary depending on what exactly I ask it, but the phrases? The ways of speech? They're basically the same. Hell, sometimes it reuses entire paragraphs.

And to be clear, it's not like tendencies or patterns of an actual human writer. Rather it's like it takes a preexisting module of the response and just adds the appropriate words to make it make sense.

And sure, bugs aside it's technically correct, but at the same time it's eerily uncanny because no human genuinely writes like this all the time. Again, it's a fancy autocomplete, nothing more. It's like writing an essay by picking the suggested words from the phone and have it just happen to make sense somehow.

When you realize what genAI actually is and recognize the patterns... well, that's a hell of a lot less impressive than what all the techbros make it out to be, right?

Which leads to my second point- Ironically, now that I've been forced to use it repeatedly, I'm not afraid of genAI replacing writers and artists. Not anymore.

I've heard a few people say that there is no genuine threat of genAI replacing authors and essays or students passing by submitted works generated with it because genAI... can't actually write.

I was skeptical of this at first- after all, capitalism loves prioritizing cutting costs over quality (nevermind the sheer amount of electricity this thing wastes but I digress), so why would companies care as long as it's passable?

But honestly, I think I get it now.

Remember, I noticed entire paragraphs and sections being practically copypasted, and this is only after a few short responses. And I haven't study a thing about academic writing or linguistics, most I've done is write fanfiction whenever the planets happen to align.

Can you imagine having Gemini, ChatGPT or whatever write a book or heck, even an entire novel and trying to get it published into mainstream? It'd immediately get clocked out and laughed at like it rightfully deserves.

Now, I'm not naive. Again, capitalism. Companies will keep shoving genAI down our throats as long as they can get away with it (especially since they now have employees "correct" the generated works which is more work than having them make it from scratch. Best possible system amirite?)... but at the same time the fact they keep pushing it this aggressively says a lot, doesn't it?

genAI is already starting to cannibalizing itself. Ironically, by now plagiarizing those works it already made by plagiarizing actual artists and writers and now pollute the Internet. And considering how much electricity it costs to keep these things running...

Well. I'm no financial expert, but all these aggressive tactics sure sound like sunken cost fallacy, don't they?

Just saying. If this was a thing people actually wanted or used, every tech company under the sun wouldn't practically force us to use it (always opt-out of course, never opt-in) with increasingly hidden buttons to turn it off. Microsoft wouldn't passive-aggressively announce Edge now having genAI features with "Resistance is futile". Musk wouldn't feel the need to slap a button under every art post on Twitter to plagiarize it with its genAI and then pretend those original works were also generated with it.

It'd be a feature like any other, with no need to push it so aggressively. This reads more like "please, please you HAVE to use our genAI, we wasted millions on this", because just like NFTs, they've always been a pyramid scheme. This one was just better at hiding it and appeal to the average person. Ironically, I think they of all people know they can't push this for long the most.

I still despise genAI for everything it represents- the wastefulness and disregard for the environment, the confusing buzzwords of the techbros who are in love with it and most of all, the utter contempt and lack of respect society has for artists, writers and anyone who has done any kind of creative work- and I truly think it can't die soon enough.

But having to use it so much for work ironically gave me confidence it will die someday. It's not even a hope, more like the logical conclusion.

Because genAI is not the future, is not an exciting new technology, is not revolutionary and most importantly is not a replacement for artists and writers.

It's just a fancy autocomplete.

[kfkr1ze]

AMAKARAKU @ U-40α has New Releases! - Chapter 2

Characters — ✈︎ Akuta, Kiroku, Nanaki, Muneuji, Ushio

Location: HAMA House Lesson Room

Ushio: ……

PatiBato Doujinshi Artist A: “I applied for the ComiPara! I might drop a book abt that new chara!”

PatiBato Doujinshi Artist B: “I applied during my midnight high[1]! Dropping a Hinomiya x Reito book lol (←Wow!)”

Ushio: (Ughh hell no. Not only is the peace and balance here in shambles, but now there are new locusts[2] flying around too.)

Kaede: Ushio-kun, it’s about time for the lesson to start! Put away your phone please.

Akuta: Ushio, watch out! You better not! Or else you might get the same sentencing as me!!!

Nanaki: Sentencing? What do you mean?

Akuta: It’s the most terrifying sentence you can receive… of having your phone temporarily confiscated. 

The other day during class, I was SOOOOOO curious about this series I heard called “Being an Otaku is Ruining my Life!” so I started watching it aaand… the teacher caught me～

Ushio: ……

Kiroku: (Kurama… Is he mad because I unnecessarily came to his room to speak to him yesterday…?)

Location: HAMA House Dining Room

Ushio: ……

PatiBato Doujinshi Artist C: “I was putting off ComiPara cuz I was getting anxious >_< If I do decide to drop something there, it’ll prob be a fluffy Reito x Shouta one”

Ushio: (Fuck, I thought I had ReiShou muted, but they used their full names so it slipped through… Blocked blocked.)

PatiBato Doujinshi Artist D: “I think I’m gonna pass on signing up until things start calming down…”

Ushio: (… Yeah, I thought some people would…)

(There’s no posts from God’s account either…)

Sakujiro: Kurama-kun. Internet surfing while you are eating is bad etiquette.

Nanaki: There’s no point Saku-chan-sensei. He won’t listen to you. He’s been like this practically all day.

Kiroku: (Kamina-san’s homemade shumai is getting cold… Maybe Kurama is still angry…?)

Location: HAMA House Neigh Clan Room

Muneuji: I have returned. I hope there wasn’t much change within the dorms.

Ushio: ……

Muneuji: Everyone at home is healthy and doing well. Princess[3] was delighted with the chocolate chip cookies Uu-chan made for her…

Ushio: ……

Muneuji: Have you become glued to your phone again, Uu-chan?

Ushio: …Ah!

(God posted…!)

Muneuji: ?

Ushio: Ah, Muu-chan, welcome back.

Muneuji: Mhm.

Ushio: ……

Muneuji: (His focus went right back to the screen.)

Ushio: ……“I applied to ComiPara for ReiOu!”……

Ushio: ーーeessss!

Muneuji: (It appears that something favorable has happened.)

Ushio: I guess there won’t be any references to the Take Back the School Arc in there either. See, this is why I can trust Sanseiu-sensei. 

(…But well, I can’t help but be curious what the ReiOu God's thoughts on Reito are for this arc.)

Ah… They posted again.

(Oh, is this an answer to a WataAme[4] question?”)

WataAme QA Box: “Thank you for all of your amazing ReiOu content! Your office worker AU “Love Rain[5]” was the best…! I’d like to hear Sanseiu-sensei’s thoughts on the Take Back the School Arc!”

Ushio: !

Sanseiu: “Thank you for your WataAme question! I’ve been thinking about it a lot, and I do have a lot of thoughts about it, but I’m not the best at explaining things. So, I’ll draw everything I want to convey into my book!”

Ushio: Things you want to convey… into a book…

(Have a lot of thoughts… things you want to convey…)

……

I’m gonna go outside for some fresh air for a bit.

Muneuji: Outside? But that’s in the opposite direction… No wait, Uu-chan was holding volumes from Shounen Drive[6] and PatiBato in his hands…

I understand. He’s planning on reading on the balcony.

I hope he is careful and makes sure to read in a well lit area, with the book at least 30cm away from his face.

Location: HAMA House Balcony

Ushio: “…You’re not going to give up on the path you believe in just to save face with those around you…”

“That’s not something kids like us do, is it?”

(…It's the best. No matter how many times I reread it, Reito in this volume is passionate and empathetic.)

Ushio: …But, the Reito right now is…

Ushio: (The departure scene in this week’s issue. If you think about it in terms of ReiOu, it’s a really good scene. But honestly, Reito’s words and behavior really does seem different.)

Ushio: (But, that’s just what it looks like… Because Reitoーー)

Remember to read from left to right! Alt text available!

"Ougi"[7]

Location: HAMA House Balcony

Kiroku: Kurama…?

Ushio: Pyaah!?

Kiroku: Eh!?

Ushio: B-Buddha Statue? How long have you been here?

(I hope he didn’t catch me frantically reading manga in the dark like this…)

Kiroku: I just… got… here… I went to… the lesson room… because I forgot something…. And then I… saw you… sitting here…

Ushio: Oh really… Don’t scare me like that.

Kiroku: (Am I bothering him…? I don’t want to make him angry again, so I’ll just leave quietly…)

S…Sorry. I’ll… go now…

Ushio: ……

…Wait.

Previous — ✈︎ Masterlist — ✈︎ Next

Notes — ✈︎

Midnight High doesn’t actually mean “high” but in this case, it’s referring to the feeling you get when you're really energetic at like the AM hours of the night.

“Locusts”, when referring to fandom culture, are people who get into a fandom whenever the popularity is high and cause all sorts of discourse and drama. Essentially, they just stir shit up and make things unbearable, and then they move on to the next popular thing as quickly as they came.  I believe the most EN fandom word equivalent to that would be "tourists", which is defined as "A person who is not a member of a fandom or hobby-oriented community but engages with its discourse to seek attention or approval." But since this is a game about tourism, I didn't want to use that term in case it was confusing LOL.

Muneuji’s sister's nickname is “Hime,” or “Princess.” Since it’s a nickname, I choose to keep it translated as Princess.

WataAme is an anonymous question box that fans can send questions to. Similar to CuriousCat, Retrospring, Marshmallow, etc.

“Love Rain” or “Koi no Ame” is a doujinshi! You can see the cover from this Ushio card!

6. Shounen Drive is a parody name for Shounen Jump

7. Reito called Ouji "玉子" vs his name which is "王子"! Totally different name wise, but since the kanji is very close, I opted to have Reito call him Ougi in that scene instead!

[shiningwonderland]

Natsuki Shinomiya (Repeat)

Translator: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Proofreader: Nadie (Twitter: nmoniag)

Editor: Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

QA: Rei: (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

February - Winter Day's Fine

Since February, Satsuki-kun has been the dominant personality more frequently than Natsuki-kun.

Satsuki Shinomiya: No! You need to connect that better…

Haruka Nanami: O-okay!

We're practicing the verse and pre-chorus, which we're planning to record tomorrow.

I'm going to play the piano and the viola will be…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Damn it… Think about my position of having to match your crappy performance.

Satsuki-kun will be playing the viola. He shares the same body as Natsuki-kun, so I don't find it strange that he also shares the ability to play–and extremely well too.

I'm astonished how skilled he is… I feel myself being drawn into his magnificent performance…

However, there are times he falters here and there, maybe because he's a different personality from Natsuki-kun…

Satsuki Shinomiya: … Should we call it quits here? You can't give it your all if it isn't Natsuki who's playing the viola, right?

Haruka Nanami: That's… not true. Satsuki-kun is just as skilled, and… I also like your sound.

Satsuki Shinomiya: If that's true, then stop playing so badly. We're recording the instrumentals tomorrow. Are you going to play like this tomorrow, too?

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry… I'll do my best.

Satsuki Shinomiya: It's not about doing your best. You either make results at your final performance or you don't. He's the one who's going to sing, you know…

Haruka Nanami: … You're right.

We're going to use a recording of the instrumentals during the graduation audition.

There are people who make the instrumentals solely on the computer. Another method is to record professionals performing from the music sheet.

This time, I thought that we should do as much as we can as just the two of us…

We decided that Natsuki-kun will play the violin and the viola, and I will play the piano.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's far more critical about his own performance than the people around him, and yet he's so soft on you.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He can only get across half of what he really wants to say.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's an airhead and never listens to what other people say, marching to the beat of his own drum… and yet he's so sensitive and fragile.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He doesn't want to be rejected by you, so he holds back quite a bit. You haven't realized that yet?

Select the Phrase!

そんなこと・・・I see… (+10 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: You have a point… There were times I felt that he was holding back too much.

Satsuki Shinomiya: If so, then take care of him better. Read how he's feeling and act accordingly…

Satsuki Shinomiya: If you're not careful, he's never going to open his heart to you. This must be because of his trauma…

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's been betrayed over and over… No matter how much he wants to believe in people, he's unconsciously always on guard.

Satsuki Shinomiya: That's why he doesn’t want you to get hurt like him… He tries too hard to prove how much he loves someone.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He knows more than anyone else how difficult it is to have someone believe you…

Natsuki-kun… Is the reason why he's so kind and always hugs me because he doesn't want me to be sad…?

… Maybe I hesitated because I couldn't handle accepting his feelings.

Haruka Nanami: … Why are you telling me this?

Satsuki Shinomiya: Who knows… It was just a whim. Anyway, let's start practicing.

Haruka Nanami: Okay!

Satsuki-kun, he worries so much about Natsuki-kun.

I'm clueless, so I'm glad he cares enough to give me advice.

そう・・・だったんだ・・・Is that so… (+5 Love +0 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: Not many people can tell because he's a space case… and then they hurt him without realizing.

Haruka Nanami: What should I do…?

Satsuki Shinomiya: You should be able to figure it out if you pay close enough attention to him. Keep a look out for his subtle signs.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's hopelessly lonely.

Satsuki-kun briefly closes his eyes mournfully, but then looks at me straight in the eyes.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Show him how you feel. Never leave his side… if you can't do that, don't go near him thoughtlessly.

Satsuki Shinomiya: If you approach him without resolve, you'll hurt him.

Natsuki-kun… There's a lot of things I don't realize because he's always smiling…

But… he must be so hurt inside…

Satsuki-kun doesn't want Natsuki-kun to be hurt.

That's why he warned me…

I want to respect his feelings–no, I will.

Haruka Nanami: Understood! I'll do my best!

I can't understand Natsuki-kun as well as Satsuki-kun, but I want to try.

I love Natsuki-kun… so I want to get closer to Satsuki-kun, even just a little.

I, too, want to protect Natsuki-kun.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Hmph, easier said than done.

Satsuki-kun sulks and turns his head away.

Satsuki Shinomiya: We chatted for too long… Time to practice.

Haruka Nanami: Roger!

Satsuki-kun really loves Natsuki-kun.

All right, I'll do my best!

すいません。I'm sorry. (+0 Love +0 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: Don't apologize. Instead, try to do better… You hurt Natsuki every time you apologize…

Satsuki Shinomiya: He always goes too far trying to prevent you from being sad, so smile as much as you can.

Satsuki Shinomiya: You don't need to be humble or hold back. Just be by his side and keep him calm.

Haruka Nanami: But…

Satsuki Shinomiya: It's fine, just smile. He gets mad at me every time I make you frown.

He places his hand on my head.

Satsuki-kun…

I do my best to grin.

Satsuki Shinomiya: That's good… You should always smile like that.

Satsuki-kun smiles.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … There's no time. Let's start practicing again.

Haruka Nanami: … Okay.

The day we record our instrumental has come.

We have the recordings for everything else, so once we complete today's recording, we'll have our instrumental ready for the graduation audition. 

Natsuki Shinomiya: Haru-chan, are you nervous?

Haruka Nanami: … Yes, just a bit…

Natsuki has been the dominant personality since this morning.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Then I'll put a charm on you to relieve your stress. Close your eyes.

Haruka Nanami: O-okay…

I close my eyes gently.

He kisses both of my eyelids.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Here you go. How do you feel?

Haruka Nanami: Umm… My heart's pounding.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Hehe, that's not because of stress, right?

Haruka Nanami: No, it's not.

Natsuki Shinomiya: If you ever get nervous from playing the piano, just close your eyes a little. I'm sure you'll recall this.

Natsuki Shinomiya: When you do, your heart will pound not from stress but because of your feelings for me.

He stretches out his arms and then gathers me into a tight embrace. 

Natsuki Shinomiya: Think only of me when you're performing… I'll always think of you when I play…

Natsuki Shinomiya: I'm sure the beating of our hearts will change to the rhythm of love.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Our feelings ride on the beat of our hearts, our deep love and powerful bond embedded even in digital sound waves. 

Natsuki Shinomiya: Then, I'll sing while listening to the sound we've woven–the song for the one person that I love…

Ryuya Hyuga: … Are you done being lovey-dovey? Sheesh, at least acknowledge the school rules just a little bit… But I know that Shinomiya won't listen to me at all…

Ryuya Hyuga: Airheads are really something… Whatever. We got a lot of people waiting, so hurry up and get started once you're ready.

Hyuga-sensei urges us with a tired look on his face.

Haruka Nanami: G-got it, I'm sorry.

Natsuki Shinomiya: All right… I'll begin.

Natsuki-kun lets go of me and grins.

Select the Phrase!

あ・・・ Ah… (+10 Love +0 Music)

Without thinking, I grab the hem of Natsuki-kun's uniform.

Natsuki Shinomiya: What's wrong, Haru-chan? Are you lonely?

Haruka Nanami: Umm… Even when we're apart, our hearts are one… That's all I want to say…

Natsuki Shinomiya: Thank you.

Natsuki-kun pets my head, then enters the booth.

はい、頑張ってください。Yes, do your best. (+0  Love +5 Music)

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes, I'll do my best.

ここでずっと聴いています。I'll be listening. (+20 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I don't want to miss a single note from you…

Natsuki Shinomiya: I see… I'll put in all my love, so much that I'll empty out my heart, so please… please accept all of it…

Haruka Nanami: … Okay.

Ryuya Hyuga: I would expect nothing less… He's so young, yet he can put professionals to shame… He's one to reckon with.

Natsuki-kun… He has improved so much…

But he's not just skilled… His sound is so warm.

His sound seeps to the bottom of my heart and soothes my nerves.

I need to do my best too…

We have finished up our recordings without any problems, so now we have nearly everything in order. The next thing to do is the mixdown.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ugh…

Soon after leaving the recording room, Natsuki-kun suddenly crouches down and clutches his chest.

Haruka Nanami: Natsuki-kun… What's wrong? Are you okay?

Lately, he has been switching personalities frequently, and the arduous practice and stress over the recording must've taken a toll on him…

Something drops from Natsuki-kun's pocket.

Haruka Nanami: A… pocket watch?

I reach out towards it without thinking…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Don't… touch that…

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki-kun…?

Satsuki-kun glares at me and reaches for the pocket watch.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … It doesn't look broken…

He takes a deep breath and slowly gets to his feet.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He pushed himself too much…

Haruka Nanami: Umm… how's Natsuki-kun…?

Select the Phrase!

大丈夫なんですか？Is he okay? (+10  Love +0 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: For now… Are you worried about him?

Haruka Nanami: … Yes.

I look down and Satsuki-kun lightly pats me on the head.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Don't make that face. You'll make Natsuki sad. He's fine.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I… I'm set on protecting him.

どうしたんですか？What happened to him? (+5  Love +0 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: Do you want to know?

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I'm worried about him…

Satsuki Shinomiya: I see…

戻ってきますか？ Will he come back?  (+0  Love +0 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: You're always like this… Believe in him a little more.

Haruka Nanami: Ah…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Are you worried about him?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. Is Natsuki-kun okay…?

Satsuki Shinomiya: For now…

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm his shadow… I've taken on all the burden for him this entire time so he wouldn't experience it…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Ever since that day… But now, we're aware of each other. This is the equivalent to his heart being split into two.

Satsuki Shinomiya: On top of that, switching takes a heavy toll on him. He's so unstable that even the slightest emotional arousal can cause us to change places.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Putting his entire soul into his performance is only going to exhaust it.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's aware of this and yet he still doesn't hold back. Do you understand why?

Haruka Nanami: …

Satsuki Shinomiya: It's because of you.

Haruka Nanami: Because of… me?

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's so weak… and is so quick to run away…

Satsuki Shinomiya: And yet he pushes himself for you. He overworks himself all for… you…

Haruka Nanami: …

Satsuki Shinomiya: We're… probably at our limit…

His voice trails off, making a mournful smile.

For the next three days, neither Natsuki-kun nor Satsuki-kun come to school.

After school, I visit  Natsuki-kun's room.

According to Syo-kun, Natsuki-kun fainted three days ago and hasn't opened his eyes ever since…

Could it be he really… pushed himself too hard?

Haruka Nanami: Natsuki… kun…

I call his name but he doesn't respond.

Eyes closed, he just breathes in and out…

Haruka Nanami: Natsuki-kun… I see that you pushed yourself too much. I'm so sorry that I didn't realize.

I squeeze Natsuki-kun's hand as he sleeps and kiss his fingers.

I want to express my feelings as gently as the way he expresses his… I love you so much…

Natsuki Shinomiya: Huh? Haru-chan…

Haruka Nanami: Natsuki-kun!

Natsuki-kun is awake! I'm so glad! I'm so happy that tears start clouding my vision.

Natsuki Shinomiya: I want to hug you…

Haruka Nanami: Huh? But…

Natsuki-kun has weakened so much that he can't sit up.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Come here… to where I can reach you…

Haruka Nanami: … Okay.

When I lie down next to him, he hugs me like I'm a body pillow.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Thank you…

He peacefully closes his eyes.

Haruka Nanami: …

I hear light snoring.

He seems to be between a state of being awake and asleep, but I can tell he's still Natsuki-kun.

I feel relieved that I was able to meet him and talk with him even just a little bit.

His breath lightly tickles my ear. I finally start realizing the situation I'm in and feel my heart starting to pound.

I'm being hugged by Natsuki-kun in his bed…

…

Natsuki Shinomiya: … Haru-chan, don't leave me…

He’s talking in his sleep—his voice sounds so faint, like he's about to cry.

Haruka Nanami: I won't go anywhere. I'm here…

Natsuki-kun and Satsuki-kun are two halves of one heart.

Their awareness of each other's existence is burdening their mental state, weakening Natsuki-kun this much.

What should I do…? Is there anything I can do?

Haruka Nanami: … Huh? When did I fall asleep…?

Satsuki Shinomiya: Finally awake?

Satsuki-kun's face is right in front of mine.

Haruka Nanami: !!!

Satsuki Shinomiya: You're bolder than I thought. Are you trying to seduce me? Your cleavage is exposed.

I shake my head furiously, gripping my shirt to hide my chest.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … I'm joking. Don't take me so seriously, Pipsqueak.

He pokes my forehead.

Haruka Nanami: …

Without saying a word, I stand up from the bed.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … You don't have anything to say to me?

Satsuki-kun grabs my arm and makes me sit back on the bed.

Haruka Nanami: … I guess I do want to ask something…

Satsuki Shinomiya: I see. I thought that you would say, "Please disappear for Natsuki's sake."

Haruka Nanami: Why would I…

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm the one who has caused this situation. I say I want to protect him, and yet I'm putting him in danger.

Satsuki Shinomiya: And yet… I can't disappear. If I do that, who's going to protect him?

Without hesitation, Satsuki-kun closes in on me and pushes me down onto the bed.

He looks at me forlornly.

This is different from the last time he pushed me down. At that time, I felt immense hatred and rejection.

Now… This feels like he's pleading…

Satsuki Shinomiya: You're just a stranger. You'll betray Natsuki one day…

He says that, but his eyes tell me that he wants to be proven wrong.

Haruka Nanami: No, I won't!

I profusely object. That's the absolute truth, despite what anyone says.

I love Natsuki-kun, I would never betray him. I can say that with confidence.

Satsuki Shinomiya: How can you be so sure? Are you saying that your love is eternal? Do you have any proof that you will still love him ten, twenty years from now?

Haruka Nanami: …

All I know are the feelings I have right now. I don't have any proof of that.

How can I express these feelings?

Satsuki Shinomiya: He was betrayed by someone he loved very much when he was a child. 

He loosens his grip on my shoulders and sits down on the bed.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

I get up and sit next to him.

Satsuki Shinomiya: You already know that he has played the violin since he was little, right?

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I do.

Satsuki Shinomiya: The reason why he was able to continue playing the violin even though he has been sensitive ever since he was a child was because of that woman…

Satsuki-kun looks far away, his eyes filled with sadness.

Satsuki Shinomiya: She was a violin teacher. She was somewhat withdrawn, but positive and bright. She always complimented Natsuki.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Every time Natsuki would get sad, she would say, "I love your sound, Nacchan. You should be proud of yourself."

Satsuki Shinomiya: After some time, she changed the way she called him from Nacchan to Natsuki-kun… and then that one summer day…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Natsuki played a song for her that he made himself. "I'll play this just for you. Don't tell anyone about it."

Satsuki Shinomiya: Despite that, she took his song, presented it as her own and gained recognition through it.

He punches the bed, making a soft thump.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Natsuki asked her pitifully, "Why did you do this?"

Satsuki Shinomiya: She replied through her tears, "I'm sorry, but I didn't want it to end this way" and left him.

Haruka Nanami: …

I wonder how it felt to be betrayed by the one he loved… and be so hurt…

Natsuki-kun…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Natsuki didn't blame her at all, nor did he tell anyone else, but his heart was deeply hurt.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Then, I was born.

Satsuki-kun takes out his pocket watch and shows me the inside of the lid.

The name "Natsuki" was engraved in it, and then to the side, "Satsuki" was scrawled on it with childlike handwriting.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He received this pocket watch from the music class he attended when he won his first reward at a violin competition.

Satsuki Shinomiya: That woman gave it to him. He treasured it so much, but it stopped on that fateful day.

Satsuki Shinomiya: My name, "Satsuki," is the name of the song that woman stole from him.

Satsuki Shinomiya: The first time he went to the beach in the south, he kept making a sand castle and stayed there until nightfall.

Satsuki Shinomiya: The full moon lighting up the night sky and the sand castle must've looked so beautiful that they left a deep impression on young Natsuki.

He grins with a nostalgic look on his face.

Satsuki Shinomiya: But the next morning, his sand castle was swept away by the waves and disappeared without a trace.

Satsuki Shinomiya: The melancholy and transience of something that has been built up vanishes in an instant, as well as the beauty of its disappearance… That's what he put into that song.

Satsuki Shinomiya: The time of his precious watch stopped, and he erased that woman's existence from his heart. In exchange, I was born.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I appear when he is mentally burdened. I protect him from harm.

Satsuki Shinomiya: The reason why I appear whenever he removes his glasses is because his heart becomes unstable from his blurry vision.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's so sensitive that he'll switch even from something like that.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I have to protect him…

He balls up his hands into fists.

Haruka Nanami: … I'll protect Natsuki-kun too.

Satsuki Shinomiya: You…?

Satsuki-kun pierces me with his gaze.

Haruka Nanami: That's right.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … Do you want to know what I thought of you when I first saw you?

Haruka Nanami: … No…

Satsuki Shinomiya: You resemble her.

Satsuki-kun scowls in anguish.

Haruka Nanami: What…?

Satsuki Shinomiya: At first, you seem weak and fleeting, but deep down, you're strong. You would do anything to achieve your dream.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I thought you were just like that woman. That's why I wanted you to get away from Natsuki. I didn't want him to be hurt any more than he already had.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Why is he being fooled by another woman that's just like her? I was so resentful. However… maybe I was the one who was wrong…

He breathes a dry laugh and smiles at me warmly.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

He reaches out and caresses my cheek.

Satsuki Shinomiya: You're different from her… Natsuki must've understood that about you.

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's too sensitive. He gets hurt from such little things, but he never sheds a tear. He keeps smiling…

Satsuki Shinomiya: He's more emotional than anyone… but he doesn't know how to express that normally. Music is the only way he can express his emotions.

Satsuki Shinomiya: And yet he is expected to express more than just his emotions. I was born to support him when he was about to break.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I have taken on all of his negative emotions, and yet…

Satsuki Shinomiya: When he met you, he changed… No, he tried to change. Despite being a weakling, he tried so hard to change.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Can you believe that Natsuki…? Makes me laugh...

Tears well up in his eyes as he speaks.

He should be happy that Natsuki-kun is becoming stronger, but he must be lonely that Natsuki-kun is drifting further away from him.

I understand that feeling…

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki-kun…

I squeezes Satsuki-kun's hand.

Satsuki Shinomiya: What are you doing…? I'm not Natsuki. You should do this for him instead of me.

Haruka Nanami: I… love Natsuki-kun. I'll protect him no matter what… and I love you, too.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Me?

Satsuki-kun widens his eyes in shock.

Haruka Nanami: You're also Natsuki-kun, after all. Right, Satsuki-kun?

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm… also Natsuki…?

While still in shock, Satsuki-kun thinks for a moment and starts speaking again.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … Maybe I can leave him to you… I'll give Natsuki back.

Haruka Nanami: … But, what about you, Satsuki-kun…?

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm fine as long as he's happy. That's all I need…

Haruka Nanami: …

Satsuki-kun looks at me with conviction.

I am lost for words.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm sorry for making you deal with me.

Haruka Nanami: No… it's fine.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm Satsuki… I'm just a fleeting existence that will be washed away in an instant once the waves come.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I knew that I'd disappear one day.

He clenches his teeth and closes his eyes forlornly.

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki… kun…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Even so, maybe I wanted to keep existing until the end…

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm Natsuki’s shadow. I exist just for him. That's why I hated you.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I felt like you were taking Natsuki away from me… as if I was going to lose my reason for being…

Haruka Nanami: That's not true…

I open my mouth, but Satsuki-kun grabs my arm and smiles softly.

Satsuki Shinomiya: But before I knew it, I was always watching you. You have endless faith in others, you’re honest, and you’re too nice for your own good. You always seemed so vulnerable.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I just couldn't hold back from trying to protect you… I… must've been drawn to you.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

Satsuki Shinomiya: … It's nothing. Forget about it… Even if I were to wish for it, it would never come true…

Satsuki Shinomiya: More importantly, always protect him… protect Natsuki.

Select the Phrase!

ええ、必ず。Yes, absolutely. (+10  Love +10 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: Absolutely? That's a bold statement, but I'm relieved to hear that.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I'm glad to have managed to talk to you one last time.

守ります、あなたとともに。Yes, and I'll protect you, too. (+20  Love +5 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: And me…?

Haruka Nanami: I want to protect you, too. You won't disappear, you'll just become one with Natsuki-kun…

Satsuki Shinomiya: Even now, you still have your head stuck in the clouds… but I'm glad I was able to see you in the end.

・・・はい。... Yes. (+10  Love +0 Music)

Satsuki Shinomiya: I see… that's good to hear. I don't have any regrets.

Satsuki Shinomiya: It's time… I'm glad to have seen you one last time.

Satsuki-kun embraces me tightly.

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki… kun?

Satsuki Shinomiya: … Maybe all I've wanted to do is to hold you like this, claiming that this is all for his sake.

Satsuki Shinomiya: I… can't blame Natsuki. Before I realized... I fell for you too…

He looks at me in the eyes and gently kisses my forehead.

He embraces me more tightly.

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki… kun. My… arms hurt…

Satsuki Shinomiya: I don't want to disappear… Haruka… I've actually always wanted to be with you…

Even though he's so close to me, his voice is so faint that I can barely hear him.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … Can you be mine for just this moment?

Satsuki Shinomiya: … I want to keep you to myself, even for a short time…

He buries his face in my shoulder. I hear his breathing next to my ear, as if he's quietly trying to hold back his feelings.

It's as if he's communicating to me with no words.

Satsuki Shinomiya: Haruka… don't forget… that I existed…

This is the first and last honest display of emotion from this strong man. 

No, he's not as strong as he seems. Satsuki-kun is scared.

He's scared that he'll disappear without a trace. That is the equivalent to death… It's nothingness.

Select the Phrase!

・・・はい。Yes. (+10  Love +10 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'll always remember you. Even if Natsuki-kun forgets, I never will…

絶対に忘れません。I will always remember you. (+10  Love +5 Music)

I wrap my arms around Satsuki-kun and hold him tightly.

忘れられるはずないです。I could never forget you. (+20  Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: How could I ever forget a person as wonderful as you…

Haruka Nanami: I could never forget you… That's impossible. So please, you can rest assured.

I speak to him as I hold back tears. Satsuki-kun embraces me again.

Satsuki Shinomiya: … Thank you…

Satsuki-kun loosens his grip. He goes limp and falls back onto the bed.

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki-kun!

He's gone…

He thought of Natsuki-kun until the very end, leaving him to me.

Haruka Nanami: Satsuki… kun…

I hug Satsuki-kun's body and quietly shed tears.

Mini Game

Ringo Tsukimiya: Haa, time flies! The entrance ceremony for this term feels like it was yesterday, but now it's almost graduation…

Ringo Tsukimiya: One year is so short. We all grow so close, and yet we'll part so soon.

Ringo Tsukimiya: But if you manage to get into Shining Agency, you'll be my kouhai! I want everyone to do their best to get hired!

Ringo Tsukimiya: You have to polish your song even more to be able to get a good score on your graduation audition.

Ringo Tsukimiya: I'll do my best to give you advice, so let me hear what you have so far.

Ringo Tsukimiya: So, are you ready? Then let's begin! 

S RANK

Natsuki Shinomiya: If we were to share our loneliness and sorrow between the two of us and put them into the same beat, would we melt together once more?

Haruka Nanami: Yes… I want us to share as much as we can with each other.

Chapter End

[yuesya]

Hi! I've read some of your QAs and i really like some of them, especially the one where Kenjaku possessed Shiki's body and one where Shiki is older than Satoru. Which made me think, what if in a different timeline, Satoru's and Shiki's age were the same? How much it would change their dynamic?

I'm swooning over all of the possibilities, there's just so many, like will Shiki attend Jujutsu school in Tokyo (same class as Satoru, Shoko, and Suguru) or in Kyoto? Imo I don't think it will be wise foe Gojo clan to allow their two most prized and blessed sorcerer in same school, but idk. With an older and a more mature Shiki, I wonder if she can caught all the red flags Geto flashed after Star Vessel arc, or maybe in this verse Riko Amanai merged successfully with Tengen because Shiki interference? So many possibilities 😭

Glad you enjoyed some of the AU ramblings going on!

In an AU where Shiki is the same age as Satoru... it would be obvious from the get-go that Satoru is the one with Six Eyes and Shiki isn't. And Shiki would always be 'second-best' to Satoru in practically all things, growing up together. As you might imagine, this breeds conflict between them, to the point where it's even more severe than the AU where Shiki is older, because this time the two are actively 'competing' with each other.

Satoru is arrogant, and Shiki is cruel. The two of them Do Not Get Along with each other, and neither is particularly fond of the other... for all that they begrudgingly acknowledge that the other person is the only person who gets them in a way no one else does.

Satoru attends the Tokyo school, and Shiki the Kyoto one. Her classmate is Kusakabe Atsuya.

Kusakabe does not have a cursed technique -all he has is raw swordsmanship and physical prowess, and he was eventually able to reach Grade One. His overall outlook is also a lot more closer to that of a 'normal person' rather than an 'eccentric sorcerer,' and he has a solid moral compass and decent head on his shoulders.

Shiki mellows out a lot after becoming classmates with Kusakabe. Turns out having a normal friend does wonders for a healthier, positive mindset. Satoru also loses some of his rough edges after meeting Suguru, and Shoko.

I don't really see any Kyoto students making their way into the Star Plasma Vessel mission unless... maybe the Gojo Clan wants to call Satoru back for a meeting of some sort, after his mission? And Shiki is sent to pick him up by opportunistic elders looking to sow more discord. So Shiki arrives pretty much exactly as Fushiguro Toji makes his move. :)

[qualityassurance11]

Best Practices for Successful Automation Testing Implementation 

Automation testing is an essential part of modern-day software development that accelerates delivery, reduces manual work, and improves software quality. But success in automation testing is not assured, it should be achieved by proper planning and execution along with proper compliance of best practices. 

In this blog, we will talk about key actionable strategies and best practices to ensure the successful implementation of automation testing in your projects. 

1. Start with a Clear Strategy 

Jumping straight into automation testing without a clear strategy will not always yield the desired results. Define the following: 

Objectives: Define the goals of the automation, whether it is about shorter test cycles, improved test coverage or eliminating human error. 

Scope: Set the areas of your application for automation and focus much on areas that have a high impact like regression and functional testing. 

Stakeholders: Get early involvement from the development, QA and product teams to avoid misalignment regarding expectations. 

A well-formed strategy helps guide the way and make sure everyone involved is aligned. 

2. Prioritize the Right Test Cases for Automation 

One of automation testing’s biggest mistakes with it is to use automation for everything. Rather than that, shape your test cases to that of: 

Are monotonous and time-consuming. 

Wherein critical for application functionality 

Have stable requirements. 

Some of these tests are regression tests, smoke tests, data-driven tests, etc. Do not automate the exploratory or highly dynamic tests that often get changed. 

3. Choose the Right Automation Tools 

The effectiveness of your automation testing initiative highly relies on appropriate tools selection. Look for tools that: 

Support the technology stack of your application (e.g., web, mobile, APIs). 

Give the flexibility to expand your project. 

Offer extensive reporting, reusability of scripts, and run across browsers. 

GhostQA is one example of a codeless platform that works well for teams across the skill set. GhostQA can let you focus on what matters and Auto Healing reduces your maintenance to enforce. 

4. Build a Strong Automation Framework 

An automation framework is the backbone of your automation testing process. It helps in standardization, reusability and scalability of test scripts. So, when you start designing your framework, make sure to leave some room for these features: 

Modularity: Split test scripts into reusable components 

Data-Driven Testing: Use Data-Driven Testing to separate test data from the scripts to provide flexibility. 

Error Handling: Install anti-malware solutions to prevent potential threats. 

A good framework streamlines collaboration and makes it easier to maintain your tests. 

5. Write High-Quality Test Scripts 

A good test script decides the reliability of your automation testing. To ensure script quality: 

When naming scripts, variables, or methods, use meaningful and descriptive names. 

For adaptability, you should leverage parameterization instead of hardcoding these values. 

Set up appropriate error-handling procedures for handling unforeseen problems. 

Do not add anything unnecessarily, the more complexity, the more difficult it is to debug and maintain. 

Tools such as GhostQA minimize the efforts put behind scripting providing no-code possibilities allowing even non-technical users to write robust tests. 

6. Regularly Maintain Your Automation Suite 

Even though automation testing is a great way to ensure quality in applications, one of its biggest challenges is keeping the test scripts updated with application changes. Keeping your test suite effective and up to date, regular maintenance. 

Best practices for maintenance include: 

Frequent Reviews: Conduct periodic audit of the test scripts to ensure that they are not outdated. 

Version Control: Utilize version control systems to maintain history of your script modifications. 

Auto-Healing Features: GhostQA and similar tools can track UI updates and modify scripts to reflect changes with little to no human intervention, minimizing maintenance costs. 

Take good care of your automation suite so that it doesn't become a liability. 

7. Address Flaky Tests 

Flaky tests—tests that pass or fail randomly—are a common issue in automation testing. They reduce trust in test results and take up time when debugging. To address flaky tests: 

Dig deeper into what might be the underlying causes — timing problems or dynamic elements. 

Use explicit waits instead of static waiting in tests to make them aligned with application behavior. 

Prefer smart detection-based tools (GhostQA, to be precise) to eliminate the chances of flaky tests. 

This translates into flourish as flakiness and is the most significant impact in strengthening confidence in your automation framework. 

8. Ensure Cross-Browser and Cross-Platform Compatibility 

Most modern applications work across many browsers and devices, so cross-compatibility testing is a necessity. Your automation testing suite must: 

Add test cases for popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. 

Testing across different operating systems on mobile (e.g., iOS/Android). 

GhostQA abstracts cross-browser and cross-platform testing so you can verify functionality in several types of environments without repeating yourself. 

9. Leverage AI and Smart Automation 

AI is revolutionizing automation testing with better efficiency and lesser maintenance cost. Next-generation tools like GhostQA powered by AI offer: 

Auto-Healing: Automatically adjust to any changes made to the app;such as modified UI elements 

Predictive Analysis: Showcase areas with the most potential high risk to prioritize tests. 

Optimized Execution: Run just the tests that yield the most performance insights. 

Use AI-Powered Tools as these can help you to increase the efficiency and accuracy of your testing. 

10. Monitor and Measure Performance 

To measure the effectiveness of your automation testing, you should track key metrics that include: 

Test Coverage: Number of automated tests covering application features. 

Execution Time: Time taken to execute automated test suites. 

Defect Detection Rate: Number of bugs detected in automation testing 

Flaky Test Rate: Frequency of inconsistent test results. 

Consistent assessment of these metrics helps in discovering the areas of improvement in your automation efforts while also exhibiting the ROI of the same. 

Conclusion 

So, the right approach of selecting the right tool and plan properly will help to do a successful automation testing implementation. This could be achieved by adopting best practices like prioritizing test cases, maintaining test scripts, making use of the AI-powered tools and collaborating with other stakeholders in the process. 

Tools like GhostQA, which come equipped with codeless testing, auto-healing features, and user-friendly interfaces, empower teams of both technical and non-technical backgrounds to streamline their automation processes and devote their attention to shipping quality software. 

[chinanumberonesourcing]

Guide for Importers on Manufacturing Control

Efficient Manufacturing Control in China

1. Understand the Chinese Manufacturing Environment:

Diverse Ecosystem: China offers a vast range of manufacturers, from small workshops to large factories. This variety is beneficial but also poses challenges in ensuring consistent quality.

IP Concerns: Despite improvements, IP protection in China can be inconsistent, requiring robust measures to safeguard your innovations.

Regulatory Landscape: China’s complex and changing regulations make compliance crucial to avoid fines and reputational damage.

Quality Control: While quality has improved, some sectors still prioritize quantity over quality. Rigorous quality protocols are essential.

Labor & Costs: Labor costs are rising, pushing manufacturers toward automation. Infrastructure is robust, but supply chains can be disrupted by natural disasters or policy changes.

Government Policies: China’s government heavily influences manufacturing through policies and incentives, which can affect costs and market access.

2. Build a Strong Foundation:

Supplier Selection: Choose reliable suppliers through thorough due diligence, including factory visits and financial checks.

Clear Communication: Provide detailed specifications and maintain open communication to avoid misunderstandings.

Quality Management: Implement a Quality Management System (QMS) and conduct regular audits to ensure consistent product quality.

Strong Relationships: Develop long-term partnerships with suppliers to build trust and collaboration.

3. Implement Effective Control Strategies:

QA & QC: Establish a robust QA/QC framework to ensure consistent product quality.

Supplier Development: Invest in your suppliers’ capabilities to improve quality and efficiency.

Risk Management: Prepare for disruptions with backup plans and diversified suppliers.

Contractual Coverage: Clearly define product specifications and include IP protections in contracts.

Third-Party Verification: Use third-party inspections to ensure compliance and quality.

4. Manage Logistics & Supply Chain:

Transportation: Choose the best transport mode and routes to minimize costs and delays.

Warehousing & Inventory: Optimize warehouse locations and use management systems to track inventory.

Customs & Documentation: Ensure compliance with customs regulations and prepare accurate documentation.

Supply Chain Visibility: Use technology to monitor shipments and collaborate with suppliers.

Risk Assessment: Develop contingency plans for disruptions like natural disasters or strikes.

5. Overcome Common Challenges:

Language & Cultural Barriers: Hire experts to bridge gaps in communication and cultural understanding.

IP Protection: Secure your IP with patents, trademarks, and NDAs; monitor for infringements.

Regulatory Compliance: Stay updated on regulations and partner with local experts for compliance.

Supply Chain Disruptions: Diversify suppliers, maintain sufficient inventory, and use smart tools for monitoring.

6. Continuous Improvement:

Use data analytics to track trends and improve processes.

Regularly evaluate supplier performance and invest in employee training.

Embrace technology to enhance communication and efficiency.

7. Build a Culture of Quality:

Encourage employees to propose improvements.

Reward contributions to quality enhancement.

Focus on exceeding customer expectations.

Conclusion: Effective manufacturing control in China requires ongoing effort, attention, and adaptation. Invest in strong practices to improve product quality, reduce costs, protect your brand, and optimize your supply chain.

[yethiconsulting]

Best Practices for Test Management in a Continuous Integration/Delivery (CI/CD) Environment

Introduction

Start by explaining the role of Continuous Integration (CI) and Continuous Delivery (CD) in modern software development. Emphasize that effective test management is crucial to maintaining quality in fast-paced, automated pipelines.

Early and Continuous Testing

Implement testing at every stage of the CI/CD pipeline, starting from the earliest phases. Unit, integration, and functional tests should be run continuously to catch defects early.

Automation Integration

Test automation is vital for CI/CD environments. Ensure that all repetitive tests, such as regression tests, are automated. Use tools like Selenium, Jenkins, and Travis CI to integrate automated tests into the pipeline.

Effective Test Case Management

Organize test cases in a way that they can be easily maintained and executed in CI/CD pipelines. Regularly review and update test cases to ensure they are relevant and up-to-date.

Use of Test Management Tools

Leverage test management tools like TestRail or Zephyr that integrate with CI/CD platforms. This ensures seamless tracking, reporting, and scheduling of tests within the automated process.

Monitoring and Reporting

Set up real-time monitoring and reporting for continuous feedback on test results. This helps in quickly identifying issues and improving collaboration between developers and QA teams.

Conclusion

Summarize by stating that efficient test management in a CI/CD environment enhances the speed and reliability of software delivery while maintaining high-quality standards.

[girldickdotcom]

my elementary school best friend i just started talking to again let me try his practice butterfly knife tho and taught me a couple basic tricks that qas really cool. its like skateboarding in the way theyre both like 2 basic tricks with variations that are basically just making up ahit that looks cool

[0-eclipse]

Amayadori Illustrated Diary #022-#028

Alright, strap in, friends, this is going to be a long one.

Chapter 22 references a classic japanese tradition in which, in order to overcome the stress and anxiety that comes with standing in front of a crowd, one draws the character for "person" on the palm of their hands three times (hence why Atsu says "it's one too many") and pretends to gulp it down.

According to at least these two QAs i found, this practice comes from the idiom "人に呑まれる, to be swallowed up by a crowd". Seeing that the verb for "swallowing", 呑む, can be used in both the "swallow a thing" and "being overwhelmed by something" senses, the practice aims to ease the pressure put on an individual by reversing the situation, that is, the individual simbolically swallows the crowd instead.

The punchline of the chapter relies on the fact that Ame guides Sooda to draw the character for "Umbrella", 傘 instead. In Japanese, Kanji can be merged together in order to form other Kanji, and indeed, the Kanji 傘 is formed by four repetitions of 人, a "cross" (十, the number 10) and a "roof" (𠆢, doesn't really mean anything on its own).

Of course, seeing how it involves extreme wordplay with japanese characters, it was essentially impossible to localize, which is why i left the characters in the speech bubbles to see if I could still get it across.

On chapter 25, Atsu brings up various terms that refer to the blossoming of cherry trees under a rainy/cloudy weather, these are, in order of appearance:

• 桜雨, lit: Rain cherry blossoms, translated as rainy blooms, and 桜流し, lit: Cherry blossom wash/flow, translated as flowing blossoms. These are nouns made by joining "Cherry blossom" with other words, and don't have a direct translation or equivalent in english;

• 花ぐもり, lit: Clouds made of flowers, translated as clouds of bloom, is used when the flowers are blooming under a cloudy weather;

• 花冷え, lit: The cooling from the flowers, translated as petal breeze, refers to flowers blooming when the winds are chilly;

• 花風, lit: flower winds, translated as wind blossoms, refers to when the wind blows through the blooming flowers;

• 花嵐, lit: flower storm, translated as such, refers to when the blossoms are hit by a strong rain, scattering their petals around.

The punchline of the chapter comes from Sooda suggesting Mapo Glass Noodles, "麻婆春雨", the kanji for "glass noodles" is Harusame, "春雨", which also refers to the gentle drizzles of rain that occur during springtime. I tried my best to localize it but i found it very hard to get it across without leaning too much towards one meaning in particular, so i figured i'd make a note instead.

On chapter 27, Sooda says she bought the food from a デパ地下, which translates more literaly to "underground department store". From what i could understand, some department stores in Japan prefer to sell their perishables and other foods in an underground floor, however, over time, the term simply came to refer to the food sections in department stores in general.

The archive for their first live concert has since expired, however, the physical release for their 1st album, also titled "The Umbrella Folds Down", seems to still be up on the Findmestore. Alternatively, you may simply listen to it on streaming.

If you use LINE, you may also purchase their Sticker collection.

Read the originals:

Chapter 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28.

Comic by Fukasaku Emi: @ i_moni on Twitter

Amayadori Project:

@ amayadori_info on Twitter

@ amayadori_official on Youtube

Amayadori are Utaite Sooda (@ sooda_oda on Twitter and Youtube) and composer Mizuno Atsu (@ atsu361 on Twitter and Youtube)

[gsiblogs2024]

Unlocking the Endless Potential: "The Scope of Digital Marketing as a Career" conducted by team Greatskill innovation

Recently, GreatSkill Innovation, The Best Digital Marketing training center in Trivandrum arranged an enlightening one-day workshop on “Scope of Digital Marketing as a Career”. The event attracted many participants who were excited to know more about the limitless opportunities in the digital marketing world.

The seminar was carefully designed to give participants a holistic view of the ever changing nature of the Digital Marketing landscape and various career paths it offers. Consequently, professional industry facilitators and experienced digital marketers shared their  insights and Work experiences making sure that attendees had a practical approach that is current in terms of the field.

This began with an elaborate introduction to digital marketing as well as its core principles within today’s business scene. The trainers went into various internet promotion types such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising. Participants were brought up-to-date with the newest developments; tools and strategies employed by successful digital marketers therefore.

The workshop featured the QA session in which the CEOs participated actively and skillfully combined their experiences and knowledge. Taking attention to the importance of this area, the organizations stressed on the need for staying ahead of the times, the element of training yourself throughout the length and breadth of the digital landscape, and a growth mindset.

"Digital marketing is a sphere that requires continual learning/adaptation," said Amanda Gill as well , being a social media specialist. "Yesterday’s strategy may not pay off today and the method of today can become obsolete the next day. The strategy of remaining curious and keeping up with the changes is what brings success."

Attendees were also provided the space to work on the exercises along with the Questionnaire Section that served as the real-life application of what was discussed in the training. The Questionnaire sessions space of Noah created cooperation and knowledge sharing, as members of the group master new one's outlooks on the issue.

As the workshop ended, attendees had a radiance of energy in their eyes, concerning the possibilities of the unknown world of digital marketing.

"A digital marketing workshop is a great opportunity not just to understand digital marketing in depth but also uncovers the almost endless opportunities for digital marketing as a career,"said Krishnapriya, a fresher graduate. "Being able to figure out some intricate cornerstones of the issue, as well as practice the fundamental skills today, gave me the so-called confidence and persistence to actively participate in the struggle that is happening now."

Digital marketing interaction through GreatSkill Innovation's one day placed on "Digital marketing as a career opportunity" was a glorious achievement with the immediate impact of boosting the career opportunity zeal of participants. As the digital playing field is transforming constantly, hosting such events is a natural breakthrough to the next generation of the brand-new marketing specialists that will be the ones to dictate the future within this dynamic environment.