#Scratch Coding Classes for Kids in Maine

[tutree]

Scratch Coding Classes for Kids in Maine

Introduce your child to the fun of coding with Scratch classes in Maine! Tutree provides engaging lessons where kids create their own games and animations, boosting creativity and problem-solving skills. Our expert tutors make coding easy and exciting. Enroll today!

[thewebcomicsreview]

A'ight a'ight, new Hamsteak tonight! This update, the cue ball update, apparently has a content warning for physical and mental abuse, so I'm putting the liveblog behind a ReadMore

It's still weird that GCATavros and Erisol (and Fefeta) are a thing, for all sorts of reasons, but I'm not going to question it I guess.

Sneaking suspicion we're getting a new Vriska look today. Also confirmation that sprites can't change their appearance. Which I guess is not new information, but...it's also not very interesting! Moving on!

Sollux has the hardest-to-read quirk of any of the main trolls, and adding Eridan doesn't help at all. "Class-swah Dichotomy" probably means class as in social class, and not as in Classpect, but keeping the phrase in mind regardless. Davepeta is the leader of the group, a combination Rogue/Knight of Time/Heart and they passively stole Vriska's time by trapping her in the hyperbolic character development chamber, which seems like something for the classpect chart people to want to focus on. @bladekindeyewear is back in the liveblogging scene, presumably taking all sorts of notes on this.

Why the fuck is GCATavros talking like Gamzee?

Kind of interesting reading this comically pathetic version of Tavros after reading the author's commentary on the first part of this hell tier where they focused on how there was actually a lot more to him than being the buttmonkey. Also after the last update I'm reading this whole conversation expecting that Vriska will meet Doc Scratch and this will somehow tie into that relationship, though I have no idea how.

Well, that's not at all an ominous thing to say in the "Hell Tier" arc. I'm also kind of curious how this can really be an escalation over Spidermom, unless they're going to make some reveals.

This entire arc is character-based, of course, but the lore nerd in me wants to know where Scratch's parlor comes from here. Vriska never saw it, nor did any sprite, so why is it accurate? Where is Hell Tier coming from? It's also worth remembering, along those lines, that Doc Scratch is partially Hal Strider, and thus a shard of Dirk, though this is presumably not the real thing.

Scratch's text also has a typewriter sound effect, which I like. None of the characters in the flash have "voices" in like a Banjo-Kazooie/Celeste-type way, so it's immediately notable when one does.

Getting kind of creepy pretty fast here.

Vriska's text has a black background suddenly. The implications of this I don't really remember off the top of my head, though. Actually on my other monitor it's a green background, which makes a bit more sense. I think one of my monitors has kind of fucked color settings but I don't know which one.

Oh wait, that's right, Vriska has seen Scratch. Scratch distracted Aradia and Terezi so that Vriska could throw Tavros off the cliff that one time. Maybe she has been here before, on the Green Moon.

I feel like Momfang has that title, but make your case.

Oh, what the shit. I'm starting to see where the content warning is maybe coming from.

Okay, seems we're going there. Scratch was certainly always, um, pedo-coded in the way he targeted and manipulated young girls, but it seems like we're about to get some confirmation.

Um.

UM.

Okay, getting de-aged back into Hivebent-era Vriska is honestly the best outcome of Scratch putting her in a "uniform".

As much as this is about Scratch, this is also about Vriska herself, in the end.

Man, I feel like every single Scratch line here is worth examining, but I don't really know what to add. As much as this is Scratch the cueball dude this is also the concept of Fate itself.

More classpect stuff about how Vriska's power is "borrowed". Really, that's true of all the kids, their god powers and even their Ultimate Powers all come from Skaia and can theoretically be revoked at any moment. Not sure when Light "abandoned" Vriska, though, unless it's referring to (Vriska) getting killed. This Vriska knowing that her own best friend tried to murder her and that it was divinely judged Just has have fucked her up a little.

Interesting. Generally the fandom considers classpect has being an extension of your true self and your title being Skaia simply describing who you already were. This (which is partially Vriska's opinion of things) frames it as the kids being Warlocks who were granted power by Skaia. This is mostly Worldbuilding (tm) but if that's the way Vriska's thought of it it kind of explains a lot about her. She doesn't feel like she's ever earned anything she's had, even her divinity.

Vriska doesn't get a revelation here, she just gets insulted and kicked out and-

Erisol, you dick, lol.

Well that was a lot to take in. I think I need to process it. Kind of wild that it's only the halfway point. Up next is the feather and the 8-ball. I think we're down with flashbacks, and the feather is Davepeta and the 8-ball is Vriska getting out of hell.

[your-old-sins-tournament]

12 YEAR OLD OCS; SIDE B

Drake Blue [@silveredcircuitry] (she/her)

I was OBSESSED with Drake for like. several years. I drew her so much. Funnily enough though she was never the main protagonist, generally serving the role of "the narrator's best/first friend who knows magic in this urban fantasy setting". She was the extroverted, knowledgeable, tomboyish foil to my various introverted, new-to-this, vaguely feminine self-inserty protagonists I wrote. Her full first name is Dracanea or something but no iteration of her is terribly fond of it. She also for some reason used an abbreviation of her last name in early versions (I guess to either sound less pretentious or blend in) but eventually i just made Blue her actual last name upon understanding nobody does that.

She's half dragon on her mother's side, giving her an array of abilities that shifted a bit depending on whether I felt like including them. These almost always included superhuman strength and resilience, flight, and some flavor of pyrokinesis. She has wings that she could shapeshift away in some iterations but her flight is more magic channeled through having her wings out than actually using them properly. Also sometimes fangs which I rarely drew on her. Generally not great at the magic in the setting but not so much catastrophically terrible so much as she just. doesn't use magic that often.

She fucking hated dresses and preferred to wear whatever was comfortable and easy to climb/run/fly/fight/do whatever else in. I have one drawing of her burning a bunch of dresses and other girly accessories and I genuinely cannot tell if this was me characterizing her as a TomboyTM, just part of my "let's be feminist in the most cliche ways possible because i have unresolved issues and all the boys in my class bully me" phase, or Indicative of Something TM. Or like. All three.

She was a whole bunch of things kid-me thought was cool, but not in what seems to be the usual way. She wasn't someone I wanted to BE so much as someone I wanted to be friends with. Strong in a lot of ways that I was weak in, and I think having more distance between her and myself than the aforementioned dozens of self-inserts helped get me more obsessed with her. ALSO one of my earliest developed non-insterting-an-existing-person-or-character-into-the-story OCs.

she also made it into my very dead webcomic that i will not share a title or too too much information about besides the fact that i made her slightly terrible at hiding her powers and also in a lopsided rivalry with a sorceror who keeps trying to beat her in a fight just to prove he can. He doesn't actually succeed ever and she is increasingly annoyed with him especially once he dragged someone else into it. She could shove him in a locker and he would not be able to stop her.

Jenn Adreana [@apotheoseity] (she/her)

Despite her being made when I was literally NINE YEARS OLD (and I just turned 20), Jenn is still a character I regularly use and draw. Originally made for rp on the children’s coding website Scratch, and at one point used as an avenue to —at different points in time— selfship with multiple characters including Dipper Pines and Monika from DDLC, she’s changed drastically over the years. But she never stopped being an overpowered, shapeshifting mary sue 😌

[useoftoysforchildsdevelop]

Unlocking Knowledge: Top Engaging Educational Resources for Successful Home-Based Learning

  Certainly! Successful home-based learning requires access to engaging educational resources that cater to various learning styles and subjects. Here's a list of top resources across different categories:

1. Online Learning Platforms:

a. Khan Academy: Provides free online courses, lessons, and practice in various subjects.

 b. Coursera: Offers courses from universities and colleges around the world on a wide range of topics.

c. edX: Similar to Coursera, with courses from universities and institutions globally.

2. Interactive Learning Websites:

a. Code.org: Teaches coding and computer science in an interactive and engaging way.

b. Duolingo: A fun and gamified platform for learning languages.

c. BBC Bitesize: Offers resources for various subjects, especially useful for UK curriculum.

3. Virtual Museums and Tours:

a. Google Arts & Culture: Virtual tours of museums and historical sites worldwide.

b. Smithsonian Learning Lab: Educational resources and virtual tours from the Smithsonian Institution.

4. Educational YouTube Channels:

a. CrashCourse: Quick, entertaining lessons on various subjects.

b. TED-Ed: Engaging lessons worth sharing on a variety of topics.

c. National Geographic Kids: Educational videos about science, nature, and more.

5. Reading and Literature:

a. Project Gutenberg: Offers over 60,000 free eBooks, including many classic literary works.

b. CommonLit: Provides free reading passages and literacy resources for grades 3-12.

6. Mathematics Resources:

a. IXL: Adaptive learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies.

b. Wolfram Alpha: A computational search engine that helps with mathematics and other subjects.

7. Science and STEM:

a. NASA's STEM Engagement: Educational resources and activities related to space and science.

b. Mystery Science: Free science lessons with hands-on activities.

8. Coding and Computer Science:

a. Scratch: A block-based visual programming language designed for kids.

b. Codecademy: Interactive coding lessons for various programming languages.

9. Homeschooling Resources:

a. Homeschool.com: Offers a variety of resources, curriculum reviews, and support.

b. Time4Learning: Online curriculum for preK-12th grade.

10. Educational Games:

a. Prodigy: A math platform that uses gamification to make learning fun.

b. ABCmouse: Early learning academy for ages 2-8 with a variety of educational games.

11. Art and Creativity:

a. Art for Kids Hub: Provides art lessons for kids on drawing and crafting.

b. TinkerCAD: An online platform for 3D design, electronics, and coding.

12. Podcasts for Learning:

a. Brains On!: Science podcast for kids and curious adults.

b. Stuff You Should Know: Explores a wide range of interesting topics for older learners.

13. Educational Apps:

a. Quizlet: Flashcards and study tools for a variety of subjects.

b. Anki: A powerful flashcard app for learning and memorization.

14. Virtual Learning Communities:

a. Outschool: Offers live online classes for a variety of subjects and age groups.

b. Scholastic Learn at Home: Day-by-day projects to keep kids reading, thinking, and growing.

Remember to tailor these resources based on the age and interests of the learner. Additionally, maintaining a balance between screen time and hands-on activities is crucial for a well-rounded learning experience.

READ FOR MORE DEFFERENT CATEGORIES  SO PLEASE CLICK HERE & VISIT OUR MAIN WEB PORTAL  OR  CLICK HERE & VISIT OUR SUB WEB PORTAL

[fortunerobotic]

Robotic Classes for Kids

Robotics lessons give children an enjoyable, practical approach to learning STEM subjects—science, technology, engineering, and math—while encouraging creativity and critical thinking in today's tech-driven society.

Key Elements of Robotics Classes

Overview of the Fundamentals: discusses control systems, sensors, and actuators.

Practical Construction: Makes use of kits such as Arduino, VEX, or LEGO Mindstorms.

Programming: Introduces coding environments including Blockly, Python, and Scratch.

Challenges in Problem-Solving: Models actual situations.

Competitions and Showcases: Enhance self-esteem and highlight abilities.

Benefits of Robotics

Enhances STEM Proficiency: Enhances comprehension of foundational topics.

Increases Confidence: Promotes a feeling of accomplishment.

teaches resilience and patience by emphasizing trial-and-error learning.

Enhances Communication: Makes it easier to express ideas.

Choosing the Right Class

Age-appropriate curricula correspond to your child's degree of proficiency.

Qualified Teachers: Skilled teachers having a background in STEM.

Project-based learning is the main focus of hands-on learning.

A supportive environment fosters learning and curiosity.

Robotics at Home

For at-home education, do-it-yourself kits such as LEGO Boost, Sphero Bolt, and Makeblock are excellent. Interactive tutorials are available to improve abilities on websites such as Code.org and Tynker.

Robotics education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork in children, preparing them for a tech-driven future. Robotics is a priceless investment in your child's progress, whether it is taught in formal classrooms or through projects at home.

To know more, click here.

[harmony-belief]

I really like Homestuck.

I like that the website is designed like youre playing a video game. I like the game-like nature of it. I even thought its a shitty game at first. I got to get exposed to a panel before i began reading it in earnest (i think its the bull penis cane head full of empty one).

I like that user input way to go to the next page has in-story explanation (before i discovered the choose your own adventure website actually use reader input [oh well some things can have multiple explanation{i like how the author plays with that}] which the author forgoes as it gains more attention) (the author still acknowledge the readers even after that so im pretty sure he just use reader input from bigger crowd) (i guess thats why im fine with the way it ends). I like that he updates old pages as the retcon happened (i read it after the arm phasing retcon). The mess that some characters made to the story/game disc which has an effect to the players story intrigues me. I find it very neat that the players still aim for their happy ending despite plenty of intervention to their story. It means the players choose their own adventure. Oh yeah, I guess the NPC does that too thats why it becomes complicated. Its a whole bunch of people choosing their own adventures which gets in the way of other peoples adventures. I guess i just like how meta it is.

I like how the author uses the website creatively with its flash games and music and the off panels. Making the off panel adventures and intermission has bearing to the story, breaking the usual format he presents his story, all contained within the website.

I like the way he uses time travel. At first i thought he's going to do only the 'stable loop' type of paradox, then he exposed the branched timelines and how their existence is important for the main timeline. Theres also the disorganised chat time which makes for a funny conversation as one party will have no context of the others bearing. He also does the cause is the effect of the whole time loop thing.

I like that he has multiple themes that he weaves. The characters are color coded, most of them are connected to an animal, the zodiac are not bound to their constellation theme, made up the classes and aspect, the chess and cards that reminds me of Alice in Wonderland, the computer thing with the kernel and stuff. It really scratch an itch for people that likes patterns.

I like the characters. I am very partial to the beta kids, likely due to being the early characters. I like the trolls and how obviously flawed they are, i think their existence speaks to the people with less than ideal living condition, which makes them favored by many.

I really like the fancy vocabulary and how it introduces me to words ive never heard of before. Who knew theres plenty more words i never heard of that starts with 'A'.

I really like prospit and derse and their dreamlike nature. Wearing pajamas that resembles royalty, living in towers, buildings with sheer lighting, amicable chess pieces. I like how the dreamlike place is very much a reality and has a bearing to their reality. Will you plagued by the visions or haunted by the voices?

[ocblogtocontainmyself]

I can't sleep and haven't had my Vyvanse in days sooooo I'm gonna do this character development thing with my six main ocs, from what I saw the op deactivated so I'm using a screenshot I got from pinterest

Part 1:

Character 1: Charlie

1. They have some cousins but they haven't seen them since their parents were still alive. Dani (older sister) is 27 and Scottie (younger brother) is 8 while Charlie is 17 so they kinda have not much in common. Still Charlie acts like a child so they would probably consider themselves closest to Scottie.

2. Fine. Charlie misses their mom. She died in childbirth (with Scottie) so it's been a long time but they remember lots of little things. She would stroke Charlie's hair when they were upset and she sing quiet songs in Tagalog that Charlie wishes they could remember.

3. Bad. Charlie was on the cusp of puberty and angry at basically everything right before their dad died. Their dad was verbally abusive and considered purposeful neglect a proper forn of punishment. Dani and Charlie somewhat bond over that. Dani had been trying to get the kids out of there even before he died. They let his family do the funeral. The only thing tying them all together is a name: Shegai.

4. Charlie wasn't there for either of their parents passing. If you asked them they would probably say the night they overheard Dani sobbing on the phone with an ex-partner was the most impactful.

5. Usually some sort of pen (dab or just nic), rubber bands for their braces but also they use them to fiddle with, a knife, their phone, house keys, and maybe a raspberry pi if they're feeling frisky.

6. Charlie uses sleeping aids because if they don't they have very bad nightmares. The sleepaids make it where they don't really dream at all.

7. Death. Death of their mom and dad, death of their siblings or friends, but most of all dying themselves.

8. Yes. They've gone to shoot at the range with Dani before.

9. Charlie was middle-lower class and will always be. They grew up with a dad in physical labor which paid fine but nothing impressive, then Dani worked as a detective which was pretty good money but not ideal, and as an adult they become a high school computer/coding teacher.

10. tw self harm but they prefer long sleeves and long pants. They have scars from scratching on their upper arms and thighs, they don't like showing them off and longer clothing helps keep them from scratching. They also like baggy clothing, but that's just a fashion preference.

11. One time Charlie was at a party, had some dude come onto them aggressively, and then called multiple people just for no one to answer. Cam did, and woke up Add, and so they were able to get home, but the particular feeling of being trapped was terrifying.

12. They're calmest right before they fall asleep, the slowing of their heart beat and heavy feeling in their body is their favorite feeling.

13. They aren't.

14. Neither, they can't remember shit for shit.

15. Not really? They have things they like or want but they're not particularly money motivated. They do have a problem accepting what they deem as "handouts."

16. Success, because they think anyone claiming to find "true happiness" is lying out their ass. Happiness is just one part of life, there's no guarantee of constant Anything. Success, while illusive, is attainable to some extent.

17. They had one barbie doll named Dolly and they mauled the fuck out of that thing. They colored the doll's hair, drew on it, cut up it's hair and clothes. Charlie loved that thing to pieces though. Got pissed anytime anyone suggested replacing it.

18. Wisdom, ambition requires no effort nor experience, wisdom requires you go through or learn some shit and come out on the other side.

19: They're weirdly insecure in relationships but refuse to let anyone see it. Any relationship where the party isn't intuitive and able to assume Charlie needs a lot of reassurance usually ends up being mad because Charlie gets depressed but then refuses to elaborate (and then feels even worse when they're mad).

20. For a long time they tried to pretend they didn't give a shit at all (while actually invalidating themself by comparing themself to others) but they eventually were told by a therapist (whom they ended up liking and staying with til retirement) that they should try and even out the score, they told Charlie "For every invalidation you find, make yourself find a validation." It helped Charlie form a much healthier mindset.

21. Charlie is more a believer that everything happens for absolutely no fucking reason. The universe is playing a game of roulette where every human being wins occasionally but usually loses. Shit just happens.

22. They appreciate flexibility and creativity above most other things.

23. They hate people who piss and shit and cry when bad things happen. Like honestly shut UP. Get your big boy pants and keep moving forward. They also hate boring people. Self-explanatory.

24. Not quick or very quick depending entirely on vibes. Dani used to tell them they're gonna get themselves hurt but then she found just how correct Charlie is about whether someone is good or bad news. (Also some people Charlie can sense as being really bad or neutral bad. Neutral bad can gain Charlie's trust with time).

25. Same as above, their intuition is crazy good so they only suspect if there's a reason to be suspecting. Tone of voice is something that really sets Charlie off. In that way, it is easier for Charlie to discern when a friend is suspicious, because they're able to hear the differences in tone easier.

26. I mean... Charlie pretty much IS children so... fine. Unless the child is a little shit then Charlie holds no punches which can prove to be problematic.

27. Poorly. They're one to eliminate the cause of confrontation before the confrontation can even begin. If you stab the guy he doesn't have much space to argue about that other thing, does he?

28. It depends on the best route of action. Charlie is perfectly content to cause violence immediately if it's the quickest and best way to shut things down, if there's a better way, they'll do that.

29. Charlie wanted to be in some criminal minds hacker man's working for the government stuff. Charlie wanted to be Penelope Garcia. Then Charlie realized how that intel for the government wasn't a very flexible job, so they ended up being a teacher who on the side freelanced as a coder and security tester.

30. Charlie swears looking at poorly done coding actually gives them hives. Honestly though they're pretty hard to gross out.

31. At home, in bed, maybe with a friend or two, wearing one of those big hoodie blankets and playing on their switch.

32. School, in a class with no known friends, and a stranger is asking invasive questions that maybe wouldn't be stereotypically invasive. (i.e. "Why do you only talk about your siblings?")

33. Depends on the critic. If Charlie feels they're just being an asshole and that their critic is shit they aren't gonna listen, if it is valid critic they'll be defensive but still hear them out.

34. Charlie definitely moves on if it didn't work, unless it's worked before in which case they try to understand why it didn't work this time.

35. They're pretty casual, they're not very extroverted so they only really speak if prompted or if they have a quip, but they have a more comfortable energy with people they like, and will gravitate to them more in general.

36. They uh... they don't. It's like trying to get a baby to sit still, Charlie is gonna be looking for any way out as soon as possible, if not they'll start looking for a way to get the person taken away from them.

37. Honor probably. Charlie isn't the most confident in their personality but they are quite confident in their morals and skills.

38. They'll attempt to remove themself first but will happily remove the other if removing themself is too hard or not an option.

39. Probably? They've been bitten more by themself and their brother so animal bites haven't left much impact.

40. They are in a service job (pizza place) so they treat service workers with empathy (unless they are dicks for no real reason).

41. Charlie believes in earning the things that really matter. Charlie has also found that life usually gives you what you want even if you didn't know that's what you want (just make sure you acknowledge the possibility it can be taken away just as fast).

42. Naomi probably. Naomi is kind of a parental figure to all of them. Though Naomi does date Dani later so maybe that is relation of some sort.

43. Later on Charlie has a lot of students who end up looking up to them and looking to them for guidance. Charlie is also open for helping their students any way they can.

44. I love you doesn't really mean much to Charlie, love can be very finite. The moment they realized they were really truly in love with Riley was when they said "I want to spend forever with you." without meaning to (but still finding they really meant it).

45. Charlie doesn't know. That in a way does scare them, the unknown is the most scary thing to Charlie.

Alright! That's Charlie done, next is Riley!

[alinagentry90]

Different Types of Online Coding Classes For Kids 

There are two main types of online coding classes for kids:

Block-based coding is like dragging and dropping puzzle pieces to build a program. It's a great way for kids to learn the basics of coding without having to learn a complex programming language.

Text-based coding is where kids learn to write code using a programming language like Python or JavaScript. It's more challenging than block-based coding, but it's also more powerful.

If your child is under 10, it's best to start with a block-based coding class. As they get older and more experienced, they can move on to text-based coding.

Here are some examples of popular online coding classes for kids:

Block-based coding: Scratch, Blockly, CodeMonkey, Tynker

Text-based coding: Codecademy, Khan Academy, CodeWizardsHQ

When choosing an online coding class for kids, consider their age, interests, and learning style. If you're not sure which type of coding class is right for your child, ask a friend or family member who knows about coding, or do some research online.

Here are some additional tips for choosing an online coding class for your child:

Read reviews of different coding classes before you choose one.

Make sure the coding class offers a free trial or demo so that your child can try it out before you commit to a paid subscription.

Ask about the coding class's teaching methods and curriculum.

Make sure the coding class offers support for parents and students.

By following these tips, you can choose an online coding class that will help your child learn to code and have fun at the same time.

[anticidic]

Get to know the blogger ✨

Thanks for tagging @ohhcinnybuns!! 🫶

3 ships I like:

Bungou Stray Dogs — Soukoku Code Geass — Suzalulu Ace Attorney — Wrightworth

First ship ever:

I got hard stuck on this for a while because I can't even remember what I first actually shipped. Maybe Jimmy Kudo and Rachel Moore from Detective Conan or Inuyasha and Kagome from Inuyasha. Those were amon my first animes as a kid and I have fond memories of being up at five am watching them.

Favorite childhood book:

I really liked Eragon and Artemis Fowl as a kid! I also remember getting into the Guardians of Ga'hoole series and completely skipped over Warrior Cats as a kid. Good times of getting in trouble for reading during class instead of working on classwork.

Currently reading:

I just finished What Moves the Dead and now I'm working on Magpie Murders! I'm really enjoying it so far, I was itching for a good murder mystery novel lately and it's been scratching that itch. I like that it's a novel within a novel, where the main character is a writer but the story being told is the writer's story.

Currently watching:

Negative Positive Angler Yellowjackets : I got this recommended by a coworker because she said I looked like a horror fan and she wasn't wrong. It's pretty good so far 👀

Currently consuming:

Water and pretzels

Currently craving:

Spicy ramen

Pets:

One little senior citizen kitty, she has me beat for who sleeps more 🐈

Tagging (no pressure): @kizzynaiver @i-eat-mold @yuinerei @antikr1sta @mothboypoison

Get to know the blogger ✨

Shout out to @popyandshit for the tag! 💖

3 ships I like:

Soukoku (obviously—have you seen my blog? 😉) HoriMiya (their dynamic is so similar to my partner and I! 💕) Aaah there are too many to choose from so- Hua Cheng/Xie Lian

First ship ever:

Ooh, this is a tough one! The first anime I ever watched was Naruto, so I guess SasuSaku? Older me feels a bit embarrassed about that… quickly replaced by ShikaTema😂 you know a more healthy option

Favorite childhood book:

If we consider “childhood” as prepubescent teen, then it has to be Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick. I've read it a million times, and something about Patch had my heart aflutter—It was my first taste of morally-grey love interests. And let me tell you, it was a slippery slope from there, diving headfirst into a world of complicated romances! 😍

Currently reading:

I’m currently working my way through the BSD manga and other works, along with Apothecary Diaries and the entire Ana Huang universe! 📚💫

Currently watching:

Apothecary Diaries (I tend to tandem watch anime/manga) 🎥 House MD (suddenly into medical dramas! 🏥) BSD is always on repeat, of course! 🔄

Currently consuming:

Ham... it’s all I had left in the fridge... but payday is soon! 🍖

Currently craving

Carbs and fast food—Pepe's is sounding delicious right now!🍟

Pets:

Alright, brace yourselves for this pet lineup—I've got a leopard gecko, a crested gecko, a garter snake, two ball pythons, and of course, a fabulous cat! 😸 It’s a full house, and they each have their own unique personalities that keep life interesting!

Taging Mutuals:

@itsandyhere @sugareimon @sticker-mania @imgoingtoeatyourskin @monsterswithinme @ohhcinnybuns

No pressure, of course! Just sharing the fandom love! <3 Can’t wait to see your responses! 😊

[keepthyfaithandthylight]

Going off of my previous post, have another one (I say, forcing you all to look at the monstrosities of my own mind) (I accidentally posted this in my rush to get into the car in the rain so we’re redoing this.) you all know what is about to happen.

How everyone in frev that I can remember might be as… modern students…

Danton: l o u d. He’s the kid who fights and argues with the teacher, is disrespectful all of that. Copies other kids’ homework because despite the fact that he is a terrible student he doesn’t want to miss the credits for the class. You know the type I’m describing. Fights in the hallways, essentially the main crowd in public school. The loud class clown, if you will. That’s all I can say. His notes would most likely look like a kindergartener vomited up any nonsense that came to mind. Does not believe in studying, uses the “if I sleep on my book the knowledge will seep into my mind and therefore I will pass the test” logic. Sits in the back and eats hot Cheetos. Flirts with all of the girls, especially popular girls but he will go for literally any. Luckily I don’t think he would go so far as to have his pants down at his knees walking through the hallway but who knows (that was definitely not a direct jab at the kids in my school). Maybe he would play football, but probably to get with some of the girls.

Desmoulins: he probably takes decent notes, sometimes participates in class but not constantly. Sometimes he will sit with Danton, other times he will sit elsewhere. Either way he is known amongst almost everyone in class. Exceptionally good in English and writes the school paper, also part of yearbook club. Sits with his girlfriend at lunch, they’re nearly attached at the hip it’s almost terrifying. Studies sometimes, but not always, yet either way he somehow passes each test every time. Has Danton convinced he’s psychic or that he’s pulling a sneaky trick with the teacher (I.e. “I’ll pay you a lot of money to give me an A”). Doesn’t really play sports. Wears things that you might find in stores like vans and zumiez, isn’t really bad at dressing well on most occasions (unlike some cough). Wears vans too. Can charm his way out of an argument with classmates and teachers, but will cry over math homework or a bad grade, then his girlfriend has to come over and bring him ice cream. It’s fine.

Robespierre: takes very good notes, always answers questions if Camille doesn’t first. Very organized, color codes everything, his notes are very easy to navigate and almost everyone borrows them. He doesn’t mind in most cases, but starts to get annoyed with Danton about it as it is a daily thing. Can and will argue with the teacher on occasion (I know I don’t need to describe the situation I’m talking about) has a reputation for this. He’s polite most of the time but if the teacher gets sassy so will he. Studies a lot, sometimes too much and he will end up pulling an all-nighter. All of the girls love him, Danton can not figure out why. He walks in the room and the girls swoon, Danton is entirely perplexed by this. Is also very good at English, though he goes over the word limit for essays quite frequently and can get points taken off for this. The teacher will still give him a pat on the back however. Dresses in pastel colors, but will dress in knit sweaters as well (gen-z fashion icon am I right.) in the colder weather. Doesn’t do sports but will audition for the school musical. Will bring snacks for his friends sometimes, but not all of the time. Sits in the front.

Saint Just: his notes aren’t bad, but no one will go running up to him to borrow them. Mostly just sits in the back corner and listens to music, still does his work though. Will glare at Danton and Camille from across the classroom, does so on a daily basis. Brought Robespierre a pastry on his birthday, tried to make it from scratch at first, key word tried. It’s the thought that counts. Also brings coffee for Robespierre when he pulls all-nighters followed by a “why do you do this to yourself??” And an exasperated sigh. The teachers have marked him absent on multiple occasions because he’s just… in the back. Silently. Studies frequently, but not as much as Robespierre, though they do study together sometimes. Might do some really obscure sport that the others didn’t even know the school had, Robespierre got him to join in on the musical performance wise once, and sure he’s all about supporting Max in his theatrical endeavors but he’d probably rather be in charge of the background jobs, giving Robespierre a thumbs up from the catwalk during practice. Sometimes eats lunch with Robespierre.

Marat: when I say science “is his jam” as well as English. Argues with teachers almost daily but they can’t really do anything about it because every single time he makes good points. Gets along with no one. Will use his backpack as a weapon in a fight (everyone remember that one vine?) has no idea what Charlotte has against him but doesn’t really talk about it much. Just gives really uncomfortable looks when she glares at him and snaps a pencil in half in pure rage. President of the science club and the school newspaper. Camille hates this but doesn’t really question it, and tries to get along. Known for being absent a lot but only due to his skin so the school can’t really say anything about it. His writing is… aggressive. No one can really read it. Don’t even start on his notes. An absolute mess that really only makes sense to him. He dresses like a rat (pun intended) but.. in the “appeal to the gen-z gays” kind of way.

Charlotte Corday: teacher’s pet to the maximum level. As in, to the point where it’s actually a problem. Aside from that just copy and paste my previous post and you’ll get what I’m talking about.

Marie Antoinette: exchange student, you either love her or hate her. Queen bee prom Queen, wears nothing but name brand designer clothing. The “it” girl shall we say. Like Regina George but slightly less bitchy, I suppose.

Louis XVI: kind of a shy nerd kid who got absorbed into the popular crowd because of his girlfriend (and because his.. relative.. is the principal.) again you either love him or hate him.

[wienerbarnes]

Much Ado About Nothing (1/6)

Pairing: Bucky x Reader

Word Count: 2,726

Warnings: enemies to lovers, talk of wedding and marriage stuff

A/N: enjoy the first part and let me know what u think!

MAIN MASTERLIST | MUCH ADO MASTERLIST

The ride back to New York feels a lot longer than the ride to Croatia, Bucky decides. HYDRA wasn’t kidding around when they said cut one head off and two take its place, whatever. No matter how hard Earth’s Mightiest Heroes try, there’s another facility that pops up at one point or another.

Bucky tries to think positively; they should be off HYDRA duty, if they keep up the consistent schedule of finding a new facility every three or so months, for a bit now.

“What’s the first thing you guys are gonna do when you get back? I’m gonna get some hot chocolate from the little cafeteria in the main building.” Sam hums from the seat directly behind Bucky.

Bucky’s in the passenger while Steve pilots and he gives his own answer at the same time as Steve,

“Shower.”

“Propose to Sharon.”

A small pause for the boys to ensure they heard that correctly.

“Wanna run that by us again, Cap?” Sam pipes up.

“When we land, I’m going to propose to Sharon.” Steve repeats nonchalantly.

“Since when?!” Bucky asks. He knows for a fact that Steve and Sharon adore each other, but Steve has never brought up marriage once in the time he’s dated Sharon, and clearly he hasn’t done so to Sam, either.

“Listen, I know we haven’t been dating long, but I know I love her and I know she loves me, so, what’s the point in waiting?” He explains.

“Is this about what happened earlier, Steve?” Bucky asks, knowing his best friend all too well.

A bomb was in the facility, of course, and Steve and Bucky tried to disarm it while Sam rallied the rest of prisoners out of the building.

Now, while Steve has obtained most of his training through his serum-fueled muscle memory and military experience over the last few decades, he is extremely lucky. Steve has successfully disarmed twenty-nine bombs throughout his Avengers career. Not a single failure. With no bomb training.

So when he cut one of the wires confidently and the timer started ticking faster, it made him nervous. And it made him even more nervous when he clipped a different wire and the time counter automatically set to zero. He froze in shock and was lucky Bucky was able to fling the two of them out a window and away from the direct blast.

“Okay, so, yeah, maybe I got a little scared. But, listen, it’s not a lie that we lead dangerous lives. Why should I hold back on the things I want if I know tomorrow isn’t promised?” Steve defends.

“Steve, you can’t marry a girl because you’re scared of dying!” Bucky exclaims.

“I’m not marrying her for that, Bucky, I love her!”

“I know you love her, but -”

“But?! -”

“Alright, alright, listen,” Sam interrupts their sibling bickering, “If this is what you want, I’m with you 100%, Cap.” Sam reassures.

Steve gives a thankful smile and looks back to Bucky, hoping for the same.

“You know I’m always on board with you, you punk.” Bucky slaps a hand on his shoulder.

“Thanks, guys.”

“Ah, big man’s gonna be engaged!” Sam throws his hands on Steve’s shoulders, jostling his body in the tiny pilot’s seat, and Bucky joins in on the teasing.

“I’m gonna tell everyone to meet in the hangar for when you ask her.” Sam says, pulling out his phone.

“You’re not gonna tell the Geek, are you?” Bucky groans.

“Of course, I’m gonna tell her. I don’t know why you don’t like her, man.”

Bucky rolls his eyes at the thought of the little lab rat. Sharon’s best friend. A young girl, born and raised in New York though thoroughly traveled through your work experience. Been to over fifty countries offering your expertise to combat cyberterrorism and have helped locate some of the hardest-to-find and worst people in the world.

You act like you’re all that just because you’re considered one of the youngest geniuses in the country and one of the greatest hackers in the world as well as the Avengers’ best tech expert of all time.

Whatever, big whoop, Bucky could care less.

As the jet lands, hugs and cheers are exchanged as the group of friends reacquaint themselves once again after a long mission. After greeting everyone, Bucky hangs on the outskirts of the group, waiting to see how Steve is going to pop his big question.

“C’mon, punk, don’t lose your courage.” Bucky talks to himself.

“I don’t know if you noticed, Bucky, but no one’s listening to you. You can stop talking.” Your voice pipes up next to him.

“Oh, hey, Little Miss Geeky, don’t you have some codes to hack, or something?” He bites at you.

“I told you not to call me that!”

“I told you not to call me that,” Bucky mocks you in a higher pitched voice.

“Geez, how does anyone stand you around here? I don’t get how all the female trainees are infatuated with you.”

“They definitely kiss my ass because I train them and I have the final say on whether or not they move on to second-class training, but even if I didn’t,” Bucky turns to face you now, “They’d still love me because every woman here loves me except for you, it seems.”

“Doesn’t matter anyway, I’m not interested in getting involved with anyone or anything right now, I don’t even know I’m capable of that, anymore.” Bucky finishes.

“Women everywhere are lucky, then. You’d make a horrible boyfriend. I’m glad I have no need for romance, either.”

“Hopefully you keep it that way, any guy that ends up with your catty ass will end up with his face scratched up.”

“Well, if his face looks anything like yours, a good scratching would only make it look better.”

“Alright, alright, enough, you two. Can’t even be civil around each other for five minutes.” Sam interrupts, slinging each of his arms around both you and Bucky’s shoulders, shoving himself in between the two of you.

“She started it.”

“No, he -”

“Stop! He’s about to do it.” Sam shushes you.

“He’s about to do what -”

“Guys, guys, I want everyone’s attention.” Steve’s voice calls out, and everyone quiets down immediately.

Steve turns to Sharon, “Sharon, you are the most beautiful, the strongest, the kindest, and most amazing woman I’ve ever laid my eyes on.” He begins.

“I’ve known for a while now, and I know you have, too, that I love you with every fiber of my being. You make me a better Captain, and a better man every day I’m with you. I truly and deeply believe that you’re my soulmate and I won’t ever find another girl like you in my life. You’re all I’ve ever wanted. So, I don’t want to waste anymore time,” Steve lowers down onto one knee and a few gasps echo from the group.

Bucky sees you slap a hand over your mouth in shock and Sam sniffles beside him. A small smile appears on Bucky’s face, too.

“Sharon, will you make me the happiest man alive, and marry me?”

“Yes, yes, yes! Steve, yes I’ll marry you!” Sharon cries out, jumping into Steve’s arms as he stands again, and the group claps and cheers for them.

They share sweet kiss after sweet kiss, relishing in the new step in their relationship.

Sharon’s voice catches everyone in their celebration, though, “Let’s get married now!”

Collective what’s come from the group of friends that surround them, “Like you said, babe, let’s not waste anymore time!”

“Sharon, if you think you’re not getting the most gorgeous and lovely wedding you deserve, you’re mistaken.” You tell her.

“For once, I agree with Techie, Shar. I mean you don’t have a dress, Steve doesn’t have a tux; hell, the two of you don’t even have rings!” Bucky says.

“I can make it happen in a week.” Tony’s voice booms from the group. Everyone looks to him.

“I can get you guys rings, I can get Sharon a dress, and Steve a suit, I can set up the smaller ballroom for a pre-wedding party for everyone tonight and get the bigger ballroom ready for a wedding by next Friday.” Tony offers.

“Consider it a wedding gift.” He smiles.

Sharon and Steve look to each other before looking back at Tony, “Next Friday it is, then.”

The group goes back to congratulating the newly engaged couple as well as conversing about the future wedding.

...

“Hey, did you guys hear about the rumored wedding?”

Bruce Banner pipes up in the empty lab after returning from downstairs. Well, not empty, of course, but empty of you, the intern’s tech leader in their internship.

“What idiot would want to get married, nowadays?” John pipes up.

The only reason he’s here is because his step-brother, Sam “The Falcon” Wilson insisted on getting him this internship gig. Everyone was always saying how he wasn’t going to live up to his big brother’s legacy, and he hated the fact that that was only ingrained into his existence further by the fact that Sam got him this position.

“Your brother’s best buddy.” Clint Barton enters and answers. Always roaming around the building, he is.

“What, that pretty boy, Steve?”

“That’s the one.” The archer confirms and plops himself down in a spinning chair.

“Huh. And I guess he’s marrying that pretty girlfriend of his? When did this happen?”

“That he is. It happened just downstairs now that they’ve returned from that mission. There’s a party tonight to celebrate.” Banner informs him, hoping the sound of a party will liven the kid’s spirits a bit.

Banner can see the kid’s frustration in living in his brother’s shadow - or feeling like so - and hopes that allowing him the opportunity to make some good memories will make his time here feel a little less miserable. Despite the connection to his brother, John’s incredibly smart for a nineteen-year-old, a teenager, and deserves to have a little play among all his work.

“Hmmm. I think I’ll go. Who doesn't love a good party, right?” John says, satisfying both Avengers in the lab with him.

Meanwhile, John’s fantasizing, he’s going to get into trouble around here.

…

Sharon, Tony, and you sit around a small table in the cafeteria while Sam waits for his hot chocolate across the room.

“If only I could find a guy in between Steve and Bucky. Steve’s too vanilla and Bucky’s too… Bucky.” You say.

“Keep thinking like that and you won’t find anyone.” Tony tells you.

“Well, good. I pray everyday that God doesn’t send me a husband. Ugh, and especially not a guy like Steve or Bucky; I can’t stand those beards.”

“Maybe you’ll find a husband that shaves.” Sharon offers.

“I know I’m not hearing my darling Geeky and husband as topics in the same conversation.” Sam finally joins with his cup of hot chocolate.

“You’re right, you’re not. I’ll start looking for a husband when they make men out of something other than trash. Speaking of which, I know Steve is America’s Golden Boy, or whatever, but you make sure he treats you right.” You say.

“I second that.” Sam agrees.

“I third it.” Tony follows.

Sharon laughs, “Guys, guys, I appreciate it, but I don’t need you guys to have that talk with me, Steve is amazing, and you all know it.”

“Yeah, yeah, anyway, I’m going to go shower for the party tonight, I’ve been holed up in the lab all morning.” You stand and go to exit the cafeteria.

Bucky’s way ahead of you in that aspect, following through with what he said on the jet and retreating up to his room to shower as soon as the congratulations were given to the happy couple.

Showering is a special ritual Bucky follows after a rough mission. Of course, everyone showers after a mission, but Bucky makes his post-mission showers extra special.

He double shampoos both his hair and his beard, lathering them up with a smooth conditioner after, while he washes all the dirt and gunk from his body with a lavender and grapeseed oil body soap.

He applies a face mask while he cleans up any wounds he might’ve sustained on the mission, as well as polishing and scrubbing his metal arm clean. Once he’s finished, he painfully reminds himself that he can’t just sleep for the next sixteen hours. He has to get ready to go to a party.

He sighs to himself, “Let’s get this over with.”

…

Everyone in the ballroom is dressed to the nines for the last-minute engagement party. There’s music, dancing, drinks, and just about everyone that works in the tower is in that room.

The group of friends all find each other eventually, and of course all of the attention is on the future bride and groom. Talk of colors and themes and cakes all overwhelm the couple - the question of whether or not Sharon will wear a garter makes Steve blush.

Quite honestly, they’re on the verge of just eloping downtown and saying to hell with all the parties and festivities.

“Okay, okay, can we talk about something else? I don’t want all this wedding stuff to be the only thing I hear about for the next seven days.” Sharon finally interrupts.

“Okay, what do you want to talk about, Miss Bride-to-be?” You ask.

“Well, how about when you’re going to find yourself a husband?” Sharon teases her friend, knowing how much she despises talking about her own love life, or lack thereof.

“Oh no, absolutely not, not this again. I’m going to get a drink.” You wave her off, stepping away from the group and making your way back towards the open bar.

“I hope I didn’t arrive just as we were talking about relationship stuff.” Bucky says as he arrives and finally finds his friends.

“I’m afraid you did.” Natasha confirms beside Sharon.

“In that case, I’m gonna follow Geeky’s lead and get a drink; I’ll certainly need one for that conversation.” Bucky excuses himself, the shadow of his dark blue suit follows the flow of your navy gown worn tonight; you surely matched by complete accident.

“Imagine if they were married.” Sharon thinks aloud to Natasha.

“Who? Barnes and Geek-a-Chic? Please, they’d kill each other within a week of being married.” Natasha argues.

“I hope y'all aren’t talking about our Barnes and Techie, because there’s no way in hell they’d be caught dead with each other like that.” Sam butts in, Steve by his side.

“C’mon guys, think about it. It’s like opposites attract and all that. Plus, I think they are the only people that are a match for their own wits.” Sharon explains.

“I don’t know, babe. They’re constantly at each other’s necks; I don’t even think they’ve had a normal conversation with each other without insults or bickering.” Steve says.

“I suggest we do the impossible.” Tony interrupts, clearly having had a few too many drinks.

“While we wait for the wedding to come, we are going to set those two up together.” He hiccups.

“Tony, you’re crazy.”

“That’ll never work.”

“I’m with it!” Sam shouts, excited to play along and work with Tony on his shenanigans.

“Atta boy, Sammy! C’mon, Sharon? Nat? Steve? Where’s Clint, I know he’ll be on board with this.” Tony whips his head around in all directions looking for the archer.

“C’mon, guys, it’ll be fun! The worst that can happen is that we fail.” Sam tries to convince.

“I think the worst that can happen is that we succeed! Imagine Barnes and her together!” Natasha exclaims.

“I just want her to be happy. She deserves a good boyfriend and husband.” Sharon says sweetly, Sam words slowly convincing her.

“I agree.” Steve chimes in, wanting the best for his own best friend as well.

The five of them turn towards the bar to see Bucky and their favorite tech nerd pushing and shoving at each other’s shoulders, clearly fighting about something once again.

“Alright, I’m on board. Let’s do it.” Natasha finally agrees.

John watches the happy friend group from a distance. He sees his brother smiling and laughing with his friends; his famous, talented, skilled friends, his friends who are soon going to be married and live happily ever after.

Not if he can help it, anyway.

[fourlium]

Blink

I wrote this with the idea in my mind that we may all have been a Kang Sol A once in our lives. And that is not a bad thing. We may all have felt that we were only there to shine the light for the chosen ones or for the “bright”. You see, we all are equally-flawed. And that is, if that characteristic is even a flaw. But to set the point straight, we fill each other’s gaps. And to have someone like Sol A in our lives is to have another reason to brave tomorrow. So I may as well be a Kang Sol A, then.

This was inspired by back number’s song Mabataki or ‘Blink’ – which I cannot put into words how much I love. A part of this writing is my interpretation of the song itself, materialized through that of Sol A and Joonhwi’s being.

For you who have been hard on yourself. You are needed. You are loved.

-

Sol A and Joonhwi had just finished their Criminal Code class and the two is now heading to the legal clinic to help Professor Kim for another case.

“You think this will be another defamation case?”, Sol A asked the bright-eyed boy walking beside her.

Joonhwi flashes a teasing smile at Sol A proceeding to say, “I don’t think so. But if that’s the case I guess you won’t need me anymore since you are a master in that.”

Sol A stopped at her tracks and stared at the guy for 5 seconds or so and rolled her eyes at him before marching, heavily at that, towards the door of the legal clinic. A confused Joonhwi followed and hurriedly sat beside the sulking Sol A.

“What now? Why the long face?”

“I don’t want to talk to you.”

“What did I do wrong now?”, Joonhwi paused, and with a realization, scooted closer to Sol A.

“Were you upset because of what I said earlier? It was a compliment, okay? All good, all genuine. I believe in you, you know that.”

After what seems to be Joonhwi’s main defense in court, Sol A just remained silent. She stood up from her seat after a while and began to walk back and forth the space as if thinking hard about something. After what feels like an eternity for Joonhwi, the girl finally spoke her mind.

“I’m sorry. I admit that it was about that. It is just that I’ve been stressed for the past few days, and I must have projected my pain on you. I’m sorry, Joonhwi-yah. And thank you for believing in me,” Sol A said in her most sincere, albeit nervous, self. With Sol A’s confession followed another silence that was composed of tension- from Sol A’s end- and soul-searching stares from the boy sitting in front of her.

“It’s okay. It’s alright. I know you’re working on it, and I understand. Thank you for being honest with me.”

And after a mutual understanding through their eyes that seems to be a secret code for only the two of them, all is well yet again.

The two now is seated closer than before from each other while both of them stares at the clock that seems to be ticking at a slower pace than normal. Sol A eventually sighed, turning her head towards Joonwhi who was already looking at her.

“Do you want to listen to a song? I guess Professor Kim is taking time because of the traffic,” Joonhwi suggested while fumbling at his pants' pockets to grab his phone. Sol A then offered her earphones and all is set. Joonhwi insisted to pick the first song this time, contrary to him letting Sol A choose first whenever they are in this situation.

Happiness isn't the repeating cycle of night turning into

The bright morning as the stars fall

Rather, it's holding an umbrella for a special someone

As the rain falls on them

The song starts with the vocalist’s cool voice, yet Sol A felt warmth. Maybe it’s from the lyrics of the song transcending language barriers making her understand the Japanese words or maybe it was in the way Joonhwi’s hand made its way towards hers, softly linking their fingers together, which brings comfort in her stead.

It’s fine if there’s no answer

As to why we’re alive

As long as you want to protect

The person you want to see and the things you need

Without pushing myself and being humble

Just like this, if I were

To sing these dear feelings

The song went on the first verse after what seemed to be a magical instrumental. Sol A, although hesitant at first, clasped her hands tightly with Joonhwi’s. And then there was magic.

Happiness isn't the repeating cycle of night turning into

The bright morning as the stars fall

Rather, it's holding an umbrella for a special someone

As the rain falls on them

It’s not something you can find by refusing to blink

Or straining your eyes

So stay by my side

Joonhwi was silent but a knowing smile was apparent on his face after the verse finished. It is as if he’s learned the meaning of the song after a week of just this very song playing whenever he listens to music. Maybe he did search up the translation and understood it from there. Or maybe he understood it because of Sol A. Maybe it was because he found the personification of the song in the person his hands are clasped with now. Scratch that ‘maybe’. This time he was certain.

I couldn’t become a person who lived for their dream

A person who diverted away from the right path

A person who was used for someone else’s sake

Or a person who lived for themselves

But it’s just that today again,

I thought that maybe someone will think I’m needed

After what felt like hours, the song went to the bridge and right there and then Joonhwi pressed Sol A’s hands, conveying what it seems like his version of comfort and confession.

Happiness isn't the repeating cycle of night turning into

The bright morning as the stars fall

Rather, it's holding an umbrella for a special someone

As the rain falls on them

The me who’s perplexed upon finding yet another weakness

But is that even possible

In the place where I find my eyes closed

Sol A yawned, the song pulling her into a deep slumber. It was at this moment where she decided to place her head on Joonhwi’s shoulder. The song hits it closing verse at the same time Sol A’s eyes finally gave in to sleep.

To be honest with you, this was not a spur-of-the-moment decision by Joonhwi. He was planning to confess after all. And maybe in that plan was once a plan that included him singing a song for Sol A. But then the great second round judicial passer decided against it. His reasoning composed of Sol A laughing at him, his average voice, or him not having the guts to do it in front of someone like her. Yet again, it seems like fate was in his defense and the girl beside him just fell asleep before the song ends. And so, in quiet hums to the melody and quiet hushes to not wake up Sol A, Joonhwi sang along to the closing verse of the song.

Happiness isn't the repeating cycle of night turning into

The bright morning as the stars fall

Rather, it's holding an umbrella for a special someone

As the rain falls on them

And then before I realized,

I was the one that was being protected

Always,

I want you to always be by my side

Even when my eyes are opened, even when my eyes are closed

As the song comes to a close, the door opened revealing the much-awaited Professor Kim. She took a glance at the bodies that occupy the room and found herself smiling at the sight. As much as she wants her students to rest, there is a call for work and at that realization, she decided to make her presence known.

“I don’t want to take away the moment from the both of you, but our client is waiting in the hall right now.”

At the sound of Professor Kim’s voice, a surprised Joonhwi shuffled in his seat, waking up the tired Sol A in his arms.

Pause.

The two of them looked at each other’s eyes, still surprised, realizing that break is over. Yes, they were surprised. Or maybe this is the only reason they are forced to think, for their heartbeats were at high.

-

After the session was over, Professor Kim accompanied the client outside after reminding Joonhwi and Sol A to discard the trash that was left from the snacks before exiting the room. And so, they went to clean and arrange the files for the next consultation.

“The song earlier. What was the title of it?”

“It’s Mabataki by back number. I can send you the link if you want to.”

“Go on. I really liked the melody and somehow the lyrics spoke to me. Huh, am I being sentimental again? I thought that was the alcohol speaking for a moment,” Sol A joked.

“Nah. As if there’s alcohol in your system. It’s just you. Also, Kang sol,” Joonhwi says but pauses mid-sentence.

“Why? What’s up?”

“Never mind. I’ll just chat you later.”

“Yah! Han Joonhwi!”

-

The two of them had just finished cleaning and went on separate ways back to their dorm to catch some rest. Sol A proceeded to take a quick bath to ease the tiredness away. After the refreshing bath, Sol A was determined to sleep not until a text popped up.

Kang Sol.

Yah, are you there?

Here’s the link of the song https://open.spotify.com/track/7hIfpcdUZcyCKHYy8gp49E?si=095d6e0abb584ce4

Also, you may want to check the translation to satisfy the ‘sentimental’ in you. Haha. Kidding. But for real, check it out.

한준휘 is typing…

“What’s with him now?”, Sol A ponders as the time wastes away waiting for Joonhwi to send her the following texts.

What happened earlier was certain to me.

I had planned to confess before, but I can’t seem to find the words so when I found out about this song and immediately thought of you, it hit me. I was so sure at that moment.

I’m not really good with words so I find it comforting to have someone who understands me just by looking at my eyes. Uhh, I don’t know. I’m just rambling at this point.

Read the lyrics.

More than my confession today, I want you to remember the lyrics.

Good night, Kang Sol.

Just when Sol A thought this was the end of his ‘rambles’ as he declared, another text pops up.

Remember the lyrics. Uhh, especially the last part where you decided earlier to sleep at. Haha.

Just so you know.

Because you’ve given me all that.

Sol A can’t seem to wrap her head around it. She was aware of what happened earlier, of how Joonhwi’s hands searched for hers, how he pressed it three times – yes, three times – and how she fell asleep to his voice. And she cannot also seem to find the words for what happened.

More than my confession today, I want you to remember the lyrics.

So she did. And right there and then, she understood everything.

That it is perfectly normal to fail because there is grace.

That happiness is sheltering the person you care for from the rain under a shared umbrella.

And more importantly – that forcing yourself to see will not bear the right answer, and that closing your eyes is not a loss.

It’s in the blink.

It’s everything in between.

It’s everything that’s in front of you right now.

-

Closing notes:

I don’t really know if I made sense, but this was just a spontaneous entry without any storyline or whatnot. It’s actually my first time in years to write another entry with dialogues. So please bear with me at that. And I sure write for therapy and as a hobby. Although that may be the case, I will still be perfectly happy to hear your thoughts! All mistakes are mine. All song translation is credited to: https://lyricstranslate.com/en/mabataki-blink.html & https://www.musixmatch.com/lyrics/back-number/Mabataki/translation/english

All my appreciation to back number for letting me, and now us, to hear this song.

-

Just as Law School and Kang Sol A gave me the strength and motivation to write again (and believe in myself again), I hope that the message of this entry will come across like that to you as well.

Thank you so much for taking your time to read.

Just keep blinking.

-fourlium

[morallygreyvigilante]

As some of you may already know, I’ve been a fan of Bakugan for a long time now. It was the very first anime series that I ever watched and is easily among the top 3 shows I enjoyed watching as a kid. As such, while I will admit that the show had some obvious flaws and one or two flimsy plot devices, it can be difficult for me to find anything to actively criticize about it.

One thing I have heard a few people mention in relation to the flimsy plot devices is the sheer number of times Drago evolved over the course of the series which is something I wanted to talk about, not necessarily just about Drago, but the evolution mechanic as a whole.

I don’t really have a structure for this so sorry if it’s a bit of a mess, but anyway...

Before I get into the in-universe mechanics of the whole evolution thing I wanted to start with the boring production side of things. Bakugan was (and still is with the release of the reboot, which I won’t be discussing) a merchandise-driven show. Since the show itself is aimed at younger audiences, this is to be expected, kids like toys and the Bakugan in the show were perfect to base toys off (or to advertise them, depending on how you want to view it).

So, what do you do if you want to base most (if not all) of the merchandising on creatures like the Bakugan? You create a load of them, and one good way of doing that is to use an evolution mechanic since it allows for variety without having to design another creature from scratch. And, since Drago is the main non-human character in the series, it makes sense that he would be merchandised (and, by extension, evolved) the most.

Right, with that out of the way, I can focus on the fun part. How does the evolution mechanic in the series actually work?

I have this show all the way through at least 5 times, however it has been a while since I last sat down to watch it so some parts of this might not be entirely accurate. But I’m confident enough with what I remember that most of this should line up.

Now, I should probably mention the Bakugan I will be discussing in this post. I will be talking about the Bakugan that were partnered with the original Battle Brawlers (with a particular focus on Preyas and Drago), the Resistance Bakugan as a collective, Dharak, and Helios. I won’t be discussing the mechanical Bakugan since they had no evolution process to speak of.

The various Bakugan who have served as part of the main cast over the course of the series have evolved in multiple different ways, either through (what I’m assuming to be) a natural process, or through outside interference.

In season 1, only 1 Bakugan evolved via what I assume to be the natural way, that being Drago. I won’t be discussing Drago too much at this stage since I want to talk about his evolutions as part of their own section, but from what I remember, his first evolution was - arguably - the only time Drago actually evolved without outside interference with the intention of triggering one.

Other Bakugan in season 1 evolved only after they had visited the Doom Dimension. Their evolutions were triggered by the six ancient warriors of Vestroia, after the Bakugan (and their brawling partners) had overcome certain trials that had been designed for them. Could it have been possible for them to evolve without the trials? Yes, considering Drago had managed an evolution of his own before then. Could they have evolved more times? Potentially, the evolution process was never really explained in depth so it’s unclear as to whether there actually is a limit to how many times a Bakugan can evolve.

One Bakugan evolution in season 1 that I found particularly interesting was Preyas. From what we’ve seen over the course of the show, when a Bakugan evolves, their appearance changes to match the boost in power. Preyas, however, did not. Instead, when Preyas evolved he retained his original appearance (though I can’t remember whether or not his power level changed) and instead duplicated into Preyas Angelo/Diablo. This raises some questions about his evolution process in particular. Would it be possible for Preyas to evolve a second time? Or would it be Angelo/Diablo that continues the evolution process if that is at all possible for them? And, the question that I find the most interesting, what would a third evolution look like for Preyas?

Preyas is an attribute-changer, while his default attribute is Aquos (this seems to be a common theme with attribute-changing Bakugan, barring Nemus) he can make use of the other attributes when it is deemed necessary. As such, it isn’t surprising that Angelo and Diablo also possess an affinity for a second attribute (Haos for Angelo, and Pyrus for Diablo). Would another evolution have an affinity for even more attributes? Or would it be exactly like Angelo/Diablo, except with a different attribute affinity? Something to think about.

In season 2, the six ancient warrior Bakugan are - once again - involved in the evolution process of the resistance Bakugan. Except, instead of giving the resistance Bakugan a trial to complete, the evolutions were instead triggered by the Bakugan being given the attribute energy that warriors held in an attempt to protect it. This evolution process was not natural and it follows a similar pattern to season 1 so I won’t linger on it.

One Bakugan that I found particularly interesting in season 2 was Helios. Helios is a dragonoid Bakugan just like Drago, however that’s where the similarities end. It’s fairly obvious that despite them being the same type of Bakugan, their evolutionary chains were very different. While Helios’s heavily involved outside interference, I highly doubt it would have been similar to Drago’s regardless since, again, other than both being classed as dragonoids they aren’t the same Bakugan.

Now, Helios’s evolution process in season 2 is difficult to label as an evolution process since it was largely manufactured in a similar fashion to the mechanical Bakugan, rather than an actual evolution triggered by Helios himself or another entity such as the six ancient warriors or Code Eve (which I will discuss more later). However, both of his cyborg forms were treated as such and so they deserved a mention. The part of his evolution that I particularly wanted to talk about was his evolution into Infinity Helios during season 4. His final evolution (as far as we know anyway) is the only instance where an evolution caused a Bakugan to permanently switch attributes. Other than a brief flashback, we don’t really get to see the evolution take place, but it’s interesting that his attribute changed entirely. Attribute-changers such as Preyas only ever changed their attributes temporarily during a brawl, never for very long, and they always return to their base-attribute once the brawl has ended. This makes me wonder whether there were other Bakugan in the series who had similar evolution requirements that we never got the chance to see.

In terms of evolution, the only Bakugan of season 3 (other than Drago) that I can really talk about is Dharak. Initially, Dharak seemed to be a dragonoid Bakugan similar to Drago and Helios (though his initial four-legged stance reminds me more of Hydranoid’s original form). It is later revealed that he is a descendant of the Bakugan Dharaknoid, meaning that he is not technically a dragonoid Bakugan (depending on how you choose to view the link between Dharaknoid and Genesis Dragonoid). However, his power level was supposedly meant to be equal to Drago’s and when it wasn’t, his DNA sequence was purposefully tampered with to trigger his evolution into Phantom Dharak. There isn’t really much to be said about his evolution since he had the same appearance change and power level boost as every evolved Bakugan, but it wasn’t exactly a natural evolution.

Dharak also evolved into Razenoid after a failed attempt to absorb the power of Code Eve.

All of this brings me to the final Bakugan I wanted to discuss, Drago. As I previously mentioned, Drago is the main Bakugan of the series so it’s to be expected that he would undergo a few evolutions over the course of the series. But why exactly did he evolve so many times?

Drago’s first evolution into Delta Dragonoid was arguably the only time Drago evolved naturally. The evolution itself was alluded to a few times before it actually happened, this involved seemingly random power level surges during brawls and he was noted as being hot to the touch when in ball form at least once. Now, Drago didn’t seem aware that he was evolving until it actually happened, but the concept wasn’t one that he seemed confused by. This evolution was not influenced by by external factors which begs the question, how many times would Drago have evolved without outside interference? I don’t think we’ll ever really get an answer.

His evolution into Ultimate Dragonoid followed the same conditions as the other Battle Brawlers’ Bakugan in season 1 so I’m not going to linger on it.

Drago’s third evolution into Infinity Dragonoid was triggered only after he’d absorbed the Infinity Core. This evolution allowed him to access abilities which could typically only be used by other attributes which automatically makes it one of, if not, the strongest of his evolutions in the entire series. This isn’t entirely surprising since he was holding one of the cores that were responsible for all of Vestroia. He maintained this form when he claimed the Silent Core so the power boost he gained from that is unclear.

Neo Dragonoid (while technically being his fourth evolution) was more of a downgrade which is understandable considering it involved him being seperated from the Perfect Core and its power by extension. He was still able to occasionally tap into and use the energy stored in the core, though the true extent of how much he was able to use at any one time is unclear. He was also temporarily turned into Vexos Dragonoid during this stage however that form wasn’t technically an evolution so I’m not going to discuss it.

His fifth evolution, Cross Dragonoid followed the same conditions as the other Resistance Bakugan in season 2 so I’m not going to linger on it.

Drago evolved into Helix Dragonoid after absorbing the attribute energy stored in the Bakugan Termination System. Despite absorbing the energy of all six attributes, he remained a Pyrus Bakugan and wasn’t able to use abilities of the other attributes which seems strange.

His seventh evolution into Lumino Dragonoid was triggered when he was given The Element in an attempt to protect it from the Gundalians.

He was forced to evolve again into Blitz Dragonoid after defeating Dragonoid Colossus.

His ninth evolution into Titanium Dragonoid occured after gaining the powers of Code Eve. It was this evolution that Drago seemed to struggle with the most since Dharak had been absorbed by Code Eve before he’d been granted the power which led to him experiencing multiple issues which were only really fixed when he evolved for the tenth (and final) time. It is also this evolutionary stage where Drago starts being able to call upon a Mechtagon, though that doesn’t seem to be a specific feature of his evolution considering other Bakugan are able to do the same.

Drago evolved into Fusion Dragonoid using the power of the Gate and Key during the final battle against Mag Mel and Razenoid (formerly Barodius and Dharak).

Overall, many of Drago’s evolutions were not caused naturally. How many times would he have evolved if there had been no outside interference? It’s hard to say.

Many shows, games, etc... that use evolution mechanics typically only allow creatures to evolve twice, so I imagine the same could potentially be true here. However, we never really get in-universe confirmation that a Bakugan has reached its final evolution, sure it’s hinted at occasionally, but if there is a specified limit, it’s not one that show ever tells us.

[fortunerobotic]

Robotic Classes for Kids

Children are not just consumers in the rapidly changing world of technology, but they also have the capacity to develop unique inventions. Once believed to be the purview of engineers and scientists, robotics is increasingly being used in children's classrooms and extracurricular activities. Giving kids robotic instruction is a step toward equipping their minds to succeed in a tech-driven future, not merely a passing educational fad.

Why Robotics for Kids?

Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Children are challenged by robotics to exercise critical thinking and come up with original solutions to problems that arise in the real world.

Improve Teamwork: The majority of robotic projects involve collaboration, which teaches children the value of teamwork.

Promote Creativity: Creating and programming robots provides a special way to express creativity and originality.

Develop Confidence: Building a robot or completing a coding task successfully increases one's sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

Get Ready for Future Careers: Learning about robotics can lead to an early interest in technology, engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI), opening doors to new opportunities.

Key Components of Robotic Classes

Understanding the definition and operation of robots is the first step in learning about robotics.

Building Robots: Building robots with kits such as Arduino, VEX Robotics, or LEGO Mindstorms.

Programming Fundamentals: To manage robot behavior, learn to code in languages like Scratch, Python, or Blockly.

Using abilities to finish jobs or participate in robotics contests are examples of problem-solving challenges.

Integration with Other Subjects: For a well-rounded experience, connect robotics projects with physics, math, and even the arts.

Popular Robotics Programs for Kids

Building and programming LEGO robots to tackle real-world problems is the main goal of the FIRST LEGO League.

Children are encouraged to create and program robots for competition through the VEX IQ Challenge.

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Online Platforms: Children can take robotics courses online from sites like Tynker, Code.org, and Coursera.

Children's robotics programs are an investment in the future, giving them the abilities and perspective necessary to thrive in a technologically advanced society. These programs foster critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork in addition to creating robots, laying the groundwork for success and innovation. Whether through community centers, internet platforms, or school programs, exposing kids to robotics opens them to a world of opportunities and equips them to be tomorrow's innovators.

To know more, click here.

[naferty]

An AvAc take on the ‘child of ours au!’

Future Tony and Steve, older, not-so-wiser, married, are having issues with a villain of the week that’s hitting a little too close to home. Steve has more or less retired, having passed his shield off to Sam already and letting all the other Avengers handle world safety affairs, only coming back on the field when necessary. He’d much rather spend his time painting, chasing after his rambunctious boy and reminding his also-somewhat-retired husband to eat something along with his coffee. Tony has also surrendered the gauntlets over to his proteges. Helping when they come crashing through his walls and consulting with the big balance keepers when they come knocking on his doors.

Villain of the week has a personal vendetta against both the first avenger and iron man. The villain also has a perfect target to make them suffer the most. Tony and Steve’s boy, Peter Stark-Rogers. 

Tony and Steve ain’t having it, but the villain is persistent and able to bypass all forms of security they set up. Already, Peter had been taken once, rescued at the last possible second before villain could get their hands on him. It’s too much of a risk to try and keep them safe while trying to find leads to this villain, and even worse to have someone else keep an eye on their boys. 

Instead, they improvise. Find a manner in which the villain couldn’t possibly locate their boy, not unless the villain has access to time itself. Tony and Steve ask Strange to send their kid back to a time where villains weren’t as coldhearted and all heroes and anti-heroes were located together in one area.

This is how young Tony Stark wakes up one day. It’s to Jarvis’ insisting calls. “Sir? Sir, wake up. There is an intruder.” 

It doesn’t spur Tony outright, but it does make him sit up. Tony is groggy. His hair is a mess. The sun is bright and blinding. His blanket is on the floor and there’s a kid standing next to his bed. 

The record scratches as he repeats that last part. 

There is a random kid, maybe five or six, just standing next to his bed. 

The fuck? 

“Jarvis, is there a kid in my room?” he says, needing someone to confirm he isn’t going crazy. 

“Yes, Sir. He is the intruder.” 

“Uh -” he eyes the kid unintelligibly. It’s far too early for his brain cells to be working, and even if they were he’d still be looking at the kid in the same manner. “Why is there a kid in my room?” 

“He appeared approximately twenty-four minutes ago, Sir. There is no sign of force entry or code usage. He has been waiting for you.” 

“What? What for?” 

“He is holding a letter.” 

One look to the kid’s hand and sure enough there is a letter. Folded unevenly with only two sentences and an initial. 

Watch over him for us. 

We’ll pick him up when it’s safe again. 

T.S. 

Well don’t that just beat all. 

Tony goes to class a little differently that morning. He’s wearing his good jacket. Has on his good black jeans. Has on his pack with his books. Instead of flying to class he’s walking today, and instead of walking alone he’s walking... with a kid in hand. Short little baby-faced thing with brown doe-eyes and brown wild-hair and trying his hardest to keep up with Tony while carrying his own, tiny backpack. 

Everyone in the academy is pretty stunned at the imagery. 

No one morose than Pepper, who demands to know who’s kid he’s just stolen. Tony simply gives her the letter. She takes a second to read over it, inhales deeply, closes her eyes and probably thinks on how this is her life now, before giving the letter back and studying the kid. 

“Okay, we can work with this. Why you thought it’d be a good idea to send your son here of all places is beyond me, but we’ll find a good sitter until he’s sent back.” 

“Yeah, I don’t think that’s a good idea -” Tony tries to explain, but Pepper waves him off. 

“Here, I’ll take him. You head to class.” She reaches for the kid and manages to grab his tiny arm and pull the two apart for a moment before the kid starts screaming bloody murder and backs away from her. She lets go in surprise and the kid takes the opportunity to koala-hold Tony’s leg. He refuses to let go. 

“Like I said,” Tony sighs, “not a good idea.” 

For the rest of the day Tony is seen walking around with a child in hand. Sometimes he’s seen holding the child in his arms. The little thing on Tony’s chest and hiding his tiny face on Tony’s shoulder. All are confused by this development, but not confused enough to stop them from speculating. 

So Tony went off and found someone to marry him? Not only that, they procreated, too! Bets start happening among them as to who they think is the mom. The largest bet is Pepper. The second is Crimson Dynamo. She actually has the largest amount on that bet herself. The third is, surprisingly, Enchantress, but anyone betting on that one quickly retract their money after she visits them. 

There’s more outlandish names, but the first two are the largest and everyone is betting. Even Fury. 

Everyone, except for Janet; because betting on her bestie’s personal life is beneath her, and she also sees how much it’s actually disturbing Tony to see everyone betting on his future partner and sex life. 

And Rhodey; because, come on, he knows his best friend. None of the names brought forward come close to who he knows Tony would want to marry. Well, except for Pepper, but he also knows Pepper and Tony are perfect as only friends.  

There is one contender that he can absolutely see Tony trying to marry, but sadly that name isn’t on a pot somewhere, and Rhodey isn’t about to call out a name either. As the best friend of the main subject of the betting pool, Rhodey’s words are powerful and that’s a lot of responsibility on his part. So Rhodey keeps his mouth shut and tries his best to diffuse this whole situation, already acting as uncle to the kid when Tony needs help the most.