#minimalist training guide

[theeartuaist]

The Silent Treatment

You're sleeping in again this morning, darling. I don't mind. You've been so tired lately, and the doctor said rest was important. I made your coffee anyway—two sugars, splash of cream, just how you like it. It's getting cold on the nightstand, but I'll make fresh when you're ready.

I've been talking to you about my day while I get dressed. You don't answer much anymore, but I know you're listening. You always were a good listener. Better than my mother, who calls every Tuesday to ask when you're coming to dinner again. I tell her you're not feeling well. She sighs in that way that means she thinks I'm being dramatic.

I'm heading to work now, but I'll be thinking about you all day. I always do. I've laid out your favourite dress—the one that brings out your eyes—just in case you feel like getting up today. No pressure, though. I know you're tired.

The morning commute is the same as always. Forty-three minutes on the 8:15 train, standing room only. I keep my phone close in case you text, but I know you won't. Not yet. You're stubborn like that, aren't you? It's one of the things I love about you.

At lunch, I buy your favorite sandwich from the deli on Fifth Street. Turkey and swiss with extra pickles. The woman behind the counter asks if it's for my girlfriend again, and I smile and nod. She doesn't understand why I'm always buying two when I only eat one, but I don't explain. Some things are private between us.

When I get home, you haven't left your spot. The coffee is cold and untouched, but that's okay. I make dinner for both of us anyway—spaghetti with that sauce you pretend to hate but always finish. I eat at the kitchen table and talk to you about my day. The silence between us has weight now, substance. It fills up the apartment like fog.

"Mrs. Chen from 4B asked about you again," I continued. "I said you were feeling under the weather. She offered to bring soup."

After dinner, I brush your hair. One hundred strokes, gentle and patient, the way you taught me. Your head tilts at an angle that would be uncomfortable for most people, but you've always been flexible. You don't flinch when I hit a tangle.

I carry you to the bathroom and help you brush your teeth. You've never needed much help with personal care, but these past few weeks you've been so still, so distant. The toothbrush feels heavy in my hand as I guide it carefully around your mouth. Your lips are pale, but you've never worn much makeup anyway.

The neighbors upstairs are fighting again. Their voices drift through the thin walls, all sharp edges and broken glass. I press my ear to your chest to block out the noise, listening for the familiar rhythm that used to lull me to sleep. It's so quiet now. You've become quite the minimalist, haven't you? Even your breathing is barely there.

I read to you before bed like I always do. Tonight it's that poetry book you love, the one with the dog-eared pages. My voice echoes strangely in the bedroom, but I keep reading. You always said my voice was soothing.

"How long are you going to keep this up?" I ask the darkness after I turn off the lamp. "I know you're angry, but this is extreme, even for you."

You don't answer, of course. You haven't answered in forty-three days.

In the morning, I'll make your coffee again. I'll set out fresh clothes and tell you about my dreams. I'll pretend not to notice how you never seem to get warm anymore, how your skin has taken on that waxy quality that makes the overhead lights reflect strangely.

The police came by last week asking questions about you. I told them you were visiting your mother in Toledo, that you'd be back soon. They seemed satisfied, though one of them kept looking toward the bedroom with an expression I couldn't read.

I should probably call your work again tomorrow. They've been asking where you are, why you haven't been in. I've been saying you have the flu, but forty-three days is a long time to be sick. Even for someone as delicate as you.

You're getting so thin, darling. So very thin and quiet and still.

But I'll wait. I'm patient. I'll wait until you're ready to forgive me for what I did, for what happened that night when you said you were leaving, when you threatened to call the police about the letters and the watching and all those little misunderstandings.

I'll wait until you're ready to love me back the way you're supposed to.

Even if it takes forever.

[shepherds-of-haven]

It's here.

The Shepherds of Haven Twine alpha build is live on Patreon!

What's New:

UI! A new UI for the game awaits you, including a range of visual themes to switch between light and dark mode, each with its own ‘minimalist’ version for those who favor strict readability! Stat screens, achievements, notifications, codex entries, newspaper articles, journal entries, storefronts, the day off hub, relationships, the character guide, the inventory, your room, trading cards, gambling, and so much more have been redesigned from the ground-up!

Miss the old look? Switch the font to Georgia and use the "Scholar" theme in your settings. You can even toggle "prioritize stat bars" if you want to change everything back to just stat bars!

A vast range of settings to customize your game! Includes several fonts and ways to read the text, including OpenDyslexic font, as well as toggles to disable or enable visual effects, music, and character art. 

Robust save system! Now, you can not only use 10 different save slots on your browser (including autosaves), you can also download saves directly to your device, arrange and rename them as you like, and even use them to play the game between different devices and browsers!

Interactive maps! Explore and learn about the world of Blest like never before!

Music! A gorgeous custom soundtrack for the game was designed and composed by Ivan Duch and will play at key moments in the story.

Art! New character art, character cards, collectible trading cards, background art, codex documents, bestiary notes, and so much more have now been integrated into the game. Don’t miss the absolutely gorgeous cover designed by Angela Wang!

Fully mobile compatible! Though desktop is strongly recommended for the best gameplay experience, Shepherds is mobile-compatible and feature-rich regardless of what device you play it on.

Other gameplay improvements:

Trouble and Briony are now romanceable by players of all genders.

All players can change their pronouns at any times. Pronouns do not affect romances.

Gambling is now unlocked earlier.

Two day offs is now unlocked earlier.

You can now allocate different points in magic and weaponry training to different skills, not just one at a time.

For now, the new alpha build is only available on Patreon, primarily because this is all new to me and I was working under a severe crunch after the abrupt closure of Dashingdon. Once all the bugs have been ironed out, I feel less nervy, and the dust has settled down some--and I get some semblance of a functional daily life back again--I'll get to work making a public demo available to everyone. It shouldn't be too long of a wait!

In the meantime, please consider signing up for the Shepherds of Haven newsletter: you'll be notified of only the most important announcements--including the release of the public demo, beta-testing opportunities, DLC announcements, and more. Plus, you'll get a free exclusive digital wallpaper based on Shepherds of Haven! :)

Other new links:

manifold-studios.com - official website for my games

@manifoldstudios - this (shepherds-of-haven) is still my main account, but you can follow this one for a cleaner way to receive just announcements as well!

linktree

newsletter

And, of course, if you want to give the new Twine build a try, you'll want to...

Play here!

I sincerely hope you enjoy! ✨

[cemeteryspider]

The Two of Cups

Remy Lebeau x Mutant! Reader

Summary: Your ability was an innate connection with the world around you which lead you to the Xavier Mansion. As well as a certain Louisiana man.

Word Count: 2.6k

You were an oddball in the mutant community and an outcast of society. Largely you found peace in knowing this due to your connection to the spiritual relam. You found solace in the trees and wind and comfort in the changing seasons. In the lush grass and flower petals that dried your tears when no person was around for you.

Your mind often drifts, allowing you to find new places, unseen by human (or mutant) eyes in thousands of years. Some caves drew you in and allowed you to commune with wandering spirits, other times on high mountains the water would guide you through and out of danger.

It was a mutual trust, that you would respect the natural or physical world and the spirit world would guide you. Sometimes this leads to crystal shops with experts in divination or sad girls who would have their cards read by you and give their lives new meaning and a more hopeful disposition.

So you followed the whispers of the wind and the pull towards new adventures until you came across a quite large estate called Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. You were no longer a "youngster" but still you padded on allowing the soft grass to show you the way to your next venture as you had done so many times before.

A man in an advanced looking wheelchair greeted you at the door, "Ah you are the one I saw in Cerebro. Definitely not what I was expecting."

He looked you up and down from the long thick skirts that gently brushed the ground to your hair you kept up and out of your face. His stare wasn't like any you felt before.

It wasn't the stare your friends gave when you first started reading the cards and could practically see through the girls you read. It wasn't the scared stare your parents gave you when they found you levitating in the air with the cards circling you in a protective manner. It certainly wasn't the stare of the people who yelled at you calling you a witch when walking the otherwise quiet streets of a small town. No, it was a state of awe and understanding.

"Pleased to meet you Mr. Xavier, my name is Y/n and it seems as though something pulled me to this place. Something strong," You looked around and saw children running around in the yard and teenagers practicing fledgling powers under the canopy of trees.

"No, the pleasure is all mine. There have been mutterings of someone with a spiritual connection roaming New York for the past few weeks, and when I saw you on Cerebro I knew I simply had to meet you."

The side of your mouth quirked up and you reached out your hand, which he gladly accepted, "Show me."

He guided you through the main building showing off classrooms filled with students learning math and history. Rooms dedicated to combat and self-defense. There were bedrooms, some colorful, some minimalist, and some dark and gloomy. Each place radiated a different emotion, the classrooms were focused with hints of boredom. The training rooms had an air of confidence and a slight fear of failure. Bedrooms had remnants of comfort and happiness, sadness, rest, wakefulness, love, and pity. Rarely were places so difficult to pin down.

He spoke about the architecture and the school's mission. You listened thoughtfully. Running your fingers along hundred year old wood paneling, and studying repairs made to walls carefully done to match. The kitchen had a rustic charm to it despite the overwhelmingly grandiose spectacle that was the rest of the estate.

Lastly you were on an elevator toward the lower floors of the mansion which were the newest additions to the property if the shift of decor told you the right story. There were endless halls of silver and doors with identity verification and a big doorway at the end with an X over it.

For a moment it overwhelmed you, never once in your travels were you taken to a place so modern, maybe even futuristic. The old towns with stories of witchcraft embedded into their history or rustic cabins next to trees that were hundreds of years old. Even to cliff faces that had been carved into by ancient peoples whose art can only be vaguely understood.

Except now you were in a different atmosphere, but with what you assumed to be the same goal, to help these people find themselves and provide guidance.

~~~

You entered a room whose ceiling was opened showing the sky and a winged jet landing in the room you were standing in. People descended the short flight of stairs to the floor and looked at Xavier and then to you.

"Is everything alright, professor?" A guy with what seemed to be a red visor covering his eyes. Despite his eyes being covered you could feel the concern radiating off of him. You almost scoffed at the thought that you would harm or threaten the man sitting next to you, but then you remembered how weary you were when you first started traveling the country and eventually the world.

After all, you were kicked out of the house with just what you could carry in your backpack. Even before that being cast aside by classmates who didn't understand you.

"Everything is perfectly fine, Scott. My X-Men I would like to introduce you to Y/n, the mutant I've been telling you about," He smiled and gestured toward you. It seemed as though that flipped a switch in the people before you.

They started to approach you starting with Scott, "I'm Scott Summers, also known as Cyclops, leader of the X-Men," He left you with a firm handshake.

Then a red-head, "I'm Jean Grey, a telepath and telekinetic, part of the X-Men. I've felt your presence in the psychic plane long before we met. It's a pleasure to finally connect with you face-to-face," She gave you a gentle hug and indeed it felt as though you've known each other for a long time.

You met others as well like Ororo, Rogue, and Jubilee but one person in particular seemed to catch your eye, "Bonjour, ma chérie! The name's Gambit, but you can call me Remy if you like."

He extended his hand to you but instead of the handshake the men before had offered he flipped your hand over and kissed your knuckles. You could feel your cheeks heat up, and he walked away with a wink.

"Why does the Cajun get all the pretty ladies that come in?" a figure with grayish-white skin, white eyes, and indistinct features grumbled beside a short man with prominent sideburns.

"Finally, my time to introduce myself. I'm Morph, probably second or maybe third in the mansion's prettiest man competition," he laughed, giving you a friendly pat on the back. "See you around, Tarot."

Then the man with sideburns grumbled something nearly incomprehensible but you could catch the word Logan in the midst of the mumbles.

"Those were the X-Men, my own vision and step toward human and mutant coexistence. I hope that you will stay and perhaps guide the wandering souls that reside here."

For a moment you felt a reluctance, the hope for an adventurer's life still called, wandering the Earth helping as many people as you could handle. Spending as much time as possible in the woods and a life outside the public eye. Then you remembered the pull and how it has never lead you to a place you didn't enjoy or to people you didn't befriend.

So you stayed.

A month after that fateful day you had become an integral member of the Xavier Institute. Caring for hurt children by bandaging their wounds, acting as sort of a counselor for the teenagers who feel abandoned or children who are having a hard time transitioning, and most importantly restoring spiritual balance to the mansion.

Though not quite as spiritual, the Professor, as you had taken to calling him, allowed you to place spiritual protection around the house. Selenite in window sills to cleanse the area and promote positivity. Placed black tourmaline near the doors of the house to absorb negative energies that may come through. Amethyst near the bedrooms for calming energies.

You often could be seen walking around the house with a burning sage bundle in your hand waving it around doorways and windows and sometimes circling the crystals with it. To some of the X-Men it was odd to them, but then they saw the effects on the students.

Some of them were able to look at one of the crystals in any of the rooms in the house and take a deep breath grounding themselves, and then take another stab at what they were working on. Whether that be a math equation, a vocab word, or a new skill with their abilities. Sometimes they even went to you for advice and even asked you to read their cards, which you did every once in a while.

If someone were to peek into the office, that Charles Xavier graciously granted you when you brought it up one day, they would usually see the three card spread. Past, Present, and Future. You gave comfort to the children worried about their lives and if they'll survive their adolescence. Maybe the clarity spreads for teenagers who have a specific situation they want insight on, whether it be a lover, a friendship, or even their mutant abilities.

One day when you were shuffling your deck you heard a sharp knock on the door, "Come in."

None other than Remy Lebeau walked through the door. He looked a tad nervous around at your dimly lit office filled with candles and burning incense.

You had been getting to know him more recently. One on one sparring with him while the rest of the team had paired up. Or sat next to each other at briefings and meals. Sometimes he even sat in your office grabbing bandages or holding hands as you disinfected wounds.

"Hey, Cher... Gambit was wonderin'... maybe you could read my cards,'' He was sharply eyeing a specific crystal with uneasiness. You were aware that he didn't mess with the supernatural.

Your brows furrow and you sit up straighter, "There's no magic here Remy, just a connection to the spiritual, its connection to me, and my connection to the cards."

His eyes soften and he quickly sits in the comfy chair on the other side of your table, "Okay Cher, I trust you."

He came from New Orleans, a deeply spiritual place with strong links to history, slavery, and powerful spiritual figures. You had observed the thin veil between the physical and spiritual during a couple of your many adventures, but you never felt the need to stay. You knew exactly when your time in New Orleans was done as soon as it was, then usually by the next day you were off again.

"Okay, hon," You started shuffling the cards between your hands and between your fingers as you speak, "What are you looking to ask the spirits?"

"Well, I was wonderin', well there's this girl I really like, and I was wondering what I should do about it?" He was idly picking at his fingers, staring at the cards in your hands, or at the walls, really anywhere but your eyes.

You toyed with some ideas in your head for a moment before choosing a spread of your own creation, "This will be a three card spread, the first card is how you really feel about her, no rose tinted glasses no nothing, the second card is how she feels about you, and the third is whether you should act on this or not."

"Okay, petite, let's do this," You fan the cards out and allow him to choose the cards he is most drawn to. You saw him crack his knuckles and reach for the cards. As he touched them you felt a pull towards him, and once the last card was set on the table you let out a breath you didn't know you were holding in.

You gesture him to flip the first card over, and the face of the card is revealed. Four tall pillars holding up greenery with two people and a castle in the background.

You smile at the card, "The Four of Wands."

Remy looked up at you patiently and waited for your words, "This woman is your idealistic love. The universe has gifted you with your perfect match."

A smile started to play on his lips and you nodded your head toward the second card on the table. A naked blonde woman collecting water under a sky brightly filled with stars.

"This is The Star. This is a romantic and spiritual connection, there is a force known or unknown drawing her to you and most likely vice versa," You glance over at Remy's growing smile, "Is this going as you had planned?"

He looked up at you with wide eyes, and shook it off quickly, "Chere, I'm... I'm not sure."

You place your hand on his, "Will you flip the last card, Chere?"

You placed your hand over the familiar card and gently flipped it over. The people facing each other holding chalices.

"This is The Two of Cups, a deep mutual understanding usually of a romantic nature. Looking at this spread I see two people being drawn together both by proximity and spiritual connection. The you should tell her how you feel as the cards seem to point to a potential romantic relationship forming," You look up at him waiting for him to say something.

"Well, Chere, I thought you would talk me out of doing this, but it seems that the stars have aligned," He took a deep breath before looking deeply into your eyes, "Ever since I first saw you, I've felt drawn to you. Moth to a flame and all that, but I wasn't sure about how to approach the topic. I guess I'll just go for it, would you like to go out with Gambit sometime."

You could see him nervously fidgeting with the hem of his shirt and his eyes darting across your face. All you could do was smile, "Yes, Remy I would love to go out with you." 

An all out smile formed on his face from ear to ear, the crows feet at the edges of his eyes crinkled. It wasn't long before you were sitting in the kitchen late at night and enjoying Louisiana cuisine made by the Cajun himself.

Then it was a walk around the garden at dawn or training together that inevitably lead to making out against the walls of the Danger Room and quickly rezipping suits and pulling on garments seconds before the next set of people were scheduled to come in.

It had been a few months after you had made the relationship official and you were moving your collection of crystals, books, and other spiritual items into Remy's room with his help of course when you had realized you hadn't felt the pull to leave. You had finally found a place to call home, where you truly belonged and the spiritual world was letting you rest. After years of wondering and meeting and leaving you had found a place to stay.

The very next hour you had approached Charles Xavier and agreed to stay. You had been discussing teaching art and self-control classes with him for a little while, but now you were committed to staying as long as he would have you.

That came with a permanent place among the X-Men team which you happily accepted. 

[moonchild9350]

Lavender Fields-Chapter 1: Different

Summary: you give an insight into your daily life within the lab, a place you've never left after being brought here by humans. life is mundane and repetitive, that is until you meet Hyunjin, your new lab technician.

Pairing: Hyunjin x humanoid!gn!reader

Genre: sci fi au, romance, au, angst, fluff, eventual smut

Word Count: 3.4k

Warning: verbal and brief physical abuse

Notes: welcome to the Lavender Fields series! I am pumped to release this series and embark on this journey with y'all :) I hope you enjoy the first chapter and as always, let me know what you think!

Taglist open-comment or message me to be added! (age must be in bio or pinned)

Series Summary: you, a humanoid from a different planet, was born within a lab here on earth in the near future, your days filled with servitude and testing within the labs to learn more about your kind as your kind are not able to feel emotion. you had nothing to look forward to until you met Hyunjin, a technician assigned to you. you learn much at his hands and invaluable lessons, enlightening your once purposeless life.

If you enjoyed, please consider a like, reblog, or comment as it keeps me motivated ♡

Divider by @cafekitsune

Please do not copy, translate, modify, use, or repost this work without my permission. ©moonchild9350 (2024).

Series Masterlist

Next

“Time to wake up!”

You open your eyes at the shrill sound of the cheery voice that is speaking over the loudspeaker signaling the start of another day. You sit up, and blink, clearing the sleep from your eyes before swinging your legs out of bed to get up.

The minimalist room is cold, the chill brushing against your skin in the early hours of the morning. You don’t mind, however, as you are made to withstand the cold.

You walk to the door and open it, merging into the crowd of people hurrying down the corridor. You follow the queue, all of you on your way to the the morning room, a place where you prepare for the day. It is quiet, no one around you utters a word, casting an almost eerie silence, with only the pitter patter of bare feet on the floor.

Once at your destination, a lady dressed in blue guides you to a stall, your daily outfit hanging from the partition that blocks off a changing area so you can dress in privacy.

There's a small mirror plastered on the wall, tiny cracks scattered throughout from years of age, but still usable nonetheless. You look at your reflection, your face puffy from sleep and eyes bloodshot. You tossed and turned last night as you kept being awakened by vivid images flashing across your mind leaving you in a panic.

You eyes travel down to the small engraving on the side of your neck that has been there since birth. It blends in perfectly with your skin, the intricate swirls almost looking like a tattoo.

Sighing, you grab the white garment from its hanger and slide it over your head, the scratchy material rubbing against your skin, the feeling almost akin to sandpaper. You don’t mind however, as you can’t tell since you’re not programmed to feel unlike most humans.

Once dressed, the lady fixes your hair, brushing the long strands that travel down your back and land at your tailbone. She ushers you out of the stall once done, ordering you to follow the others in line to your assigned work room.

You arrive in minutes, your desk set up with your task for the day. Today looks like you’re organizing testing supplies as there’s a haphazard pile of tubes, wires, and other things in the center of the desks.

Sitting down, you begin your work, keeping your eyes on your materials that are in front of you. It’s silent in the room as no one says a peep.

Watchers pace the rows with their hands behind their backs, their eyes trained on you and your peers, ensuring the job gets done appropriately.

If you mess up a task, they scold you but it makes no difference. You do not understand the meaning behind the words, not understanding why they scrunch their face up in a scowl, spitting words in your face as to what you did wrong and how useless you are.

The morning passes and you work until your stomach growls, the sound loud in the otherwise quiet room. You immediately put down your supplies as there’s the ring of a bell over the intercom, signaling it’s time to make your way to the lab.

You only get food after morning work and going to the lab, the humans claiming it’s a treat, a present for being obedient. That’s why you obeyed, completed your work, and let them experiment on you without complaints.

So is the life here within Biofuture labs.

-- --

You are y/n, from the planet Gevora, which is light years away from planet earth in which you now reside. You resemble the humans here on earth, the only difference being you are emotionless, as they were not needed on your home planet.

Your only home that you’ve ever known is Biofuture labs, a name you’ve seen many times on the doors you pass on a daily basis. You were born here, within the confines of this building, and taken away from your mother at age five, where you were put with the other children from your planet.

You don’t remember much about your mother, but then again you don’t remember much of anything of your past. Only that you are 25 years old and you have the number 032518 inscribed on your arm.

Your days are busy and long here within the lab, the technicians making sure no one is idle. Mornings are spent completing your assigned task, similar to a job, a concept you know of because of a description you read in a book.

Mid to late mornings are spent in the lab, your assigned lab technician running different tests on you, jotting down responses and results.

You’re not sure what they’re testing for, but you’ve noticed they take special interest in you for some reason, as they run extra tests on you, whispering to each other while staring at you all the while.

Today was no different. An orderly leads you to lab five, the typical space you spent every day in for testing. You walk into the empty space, your eyes roaming the area to take in your surroundings.

The walls are a ghostly white and there’s a table with two chairs in the center of the room. There’s nothing else present except for a window on the wall next to the door. However, every time you try to look through it, you only see your reflection.

You walk towards one of the chairs, pull it out, and sit down, placing your hands in your lap. You look at the man across from you and wait for the session to begin.

Your lab tech’s name is Raoul. He’s bald with piercing black eyes that are unsettling to you, the feeling unknown but just doesn’t sit right. He never smiles at you and sometimes he'll scream.

When these events occur, you stare back at him as something bubbles up inside you. It’s a gnawing feeling deep in your gut, that sometimes spreads to other parts of your body. If it goes on long enough, you start to see spots and break out into a sweat, all while your hands start to tremble.

You’re not sure what is happening when that occurs and no one takes the time to explain...not that you ask. One time you discussed the sensation with one of your peers during a free period, away from the prying ears of the technicians. However, after explaining what occurred, they didn’t know what was happening either, as they’ve never felt that way.

You stared into this man’s eyes, hoping that it would be a good session, and not one where he screams as you really don’t want to feel that way again.

“Y/n, are you ready for today’s session?” Raoul asked as he pulls out a stack of cards.

“Yes,” you respond, your gaze flickering down to the cards in his hands.

You watch as he pulls out the first card and holds it up to you. You realize it’s the same test that you’ve completed this whole week, the same cards, the same images. You don’t understand why they keep making you repeat the test. Are you doing something wrong?

“What do you see here y/n?”

You gaze at the image, your eyes roaming the card. You tilt your head to look at it a different angle, trying to get a good grasp of the concept.

It’s a mess of a picture, the picture not clear cut, but if you look at it long enough you can start to make out wings of a maybe an…insect or a bird? You think a moment more before nodding your head, agreeing on your answer.

“A butterfly,” you say plainly, your eyes settling on Raoul again.

He doesn’t respond to your answer, but instead places the card aside just to pick up the next one.

“And here?”

Once more, you stare at the picture, the image strange. This picture has red on the top and bottom of the black image. You remember the feeling you had whenever Raoul screams at you, hurling names that are not yours and sound insulting. This picture reminds you of that in a way, but you can’t put a name to it.

Taking a breath, you respond, “bear with blood on its head and feet.”

You watch Raoul’s eyebrows raise briefly and within a second it’s gone, his face devoid of any reaction. Did you answer wrong? Why is he looking at you like that? Your eyes follow as he puts the card down and picks up another.

And so it goes, card after card as time passes. Your responses are simple, “two people, animal skin, another butterfly, another animal skin, a face.”

At the last three cards, you sit up straighter and your eyes get bigger as something warm flows through you. This is the same reaction you had the previous days of the week. Raoul watches your every move, ensuring he doesn’t miss your reaction.

“A tiger, a person, a crab,” you respond in succession.

You let out a breath as he sets the last card down, the test seeming to be over. Raoul leans forward and stares at you with narrowed eyes. You don’t move but stare back, waiting on the next test.

“You are nothing, you know that?” Raoul says, spittle flying from his mouth.

You cock your head, unsure of what he meant. He lets out a loud laugh at your reaction, his hands coming down to slap the table. You jolt in your seat at the sound, your eyes wide as the hairs stick up on your arms, and little bumps form. You feel your heart beat faster, the thump thump pounding against your skin.

Despite this, you continue to stare at him, watching as he turns red in the face from laughing.

“You don’t even know what you’re feeling! I knew it was too good to be true!”

What you are feeling? What does he mean by the word ‘feeling?’ You watch as Raoul gets up and walks your way, stopping right next to you. He grabs your hair and forces you to look up at him.

You comply without protest, your hands still in your lap.

“You. Are. Nothing.”

He releases your hair with a shove, your hands reaching out for the table to catch yourself from falling. You blink once, twice before an orderly is next to you, ordering you to get up and follow them out of the room. It seems today’s testing is over.

“Dinner will be in a few hours. You will wait in your room until said time,” the orderly saids, glancing at you in her periphery.

You nod and continue to follow her all the way to your room. She unlocks the door and lets you in, closing and locking it once you cross the threshold. You glance at the door before glancing at your room, taking in the few belongings you have.

Your bed sits in the corner, a simple blue blanket placed neatly on top, your pillow fluffed and ready for nighttime. Next to your bed is a pile of an assortment of books that you have acquired over the years. You often sit curled up in the corner reading, filling your head with other worlds and what is in them.

However, your most prized possession is the mural on the wall across from your bed that you have been working on. In different vibrant shades of purple, you have painted lavender flowers. The wall is covered in delicate strokes of the purple stems, accompanied by the brown stalk that anchors it to the ground.

You discovered the flower in one of your books, your eyes lighting up at the picture. You remember touching the page with your fingertips, lightly brushing over the image as you stared at the beautiful colors. After that moment, you worked extra hard to earn favor with some of the orderlies so you could acquire paints.

You were going to recreate the scene so you could go to the place with the flowers, the pretty lavender flowers. That was years ago. The wall was halfway painted in the beauties, causing you to feel warm inside.

Walking further inside, you grabbed your paints and paintbrush and kneeled down to paint, your mind drifting in the mundane task that you have grown accustomed to. Your eyes wandered over the wet paint, as you paid attention to the tiniest detail, wanting to get the picture just right.

Time passed and you painted, lost in the world of lavender, that you didn’t hear the bell outside your door signaling dinner. You jumped when you heard the door open, dropping your paintbrush in the process, the bristles brushing against the hem of your dress, staining it in purple.

“Dinner time, get up,” the orderly said, crossing her arms when she noticed you weren’t ready.

You had no time to put your supplies away so you gently set them down and got up, your knees cracking with the sudden movement. You followed the lady to a hall, and sat down next to one of your peers. Dinner was served and everyone ate in relative silence as there was not much to say when everyone did the same thing day in and day out.

The rest of the afternoon passed with no significance. Settling into bed, you pulled the blanket up to your chin. Yawning, you turned your head to gaze at the mural, your mind drifting to how it would be escape to the field, to smell their scent, and touch their delicate petals.

With these thoughts you drifted off, another day come and gone of your life here within the lab. — — Days passed, which turned into weeks. You were subjected to the same tests again and again. You were yelled at and chastised over and over, the same phrase repeated on a daily basis.

“You are nothing.”

You sat there as you were tossed around, your hair disheveled, your arms pinched, your face spit on as Raoul ran his tests day in and day out. You felt that weird sensation as before, but a new one had started to develop.

On a particular day, you endured the typical testing, but when Raoul repeated the same phrase to you, you felt a pang in your heart, and your eyes clouded over causing your vision to be blurry.

You had no idea what was going on and tried to blink, jumping in your seat as you felt tears fall from your eyes. Raoul stared at you in disbelief. He screamed that you were faking it, that you had no inkling as to what you were feeling.

Feeling. Feeling. Feeling.

You are nothing.

You continued to stare straight ahead as he screamed in your ear, chastising you for things you did not understand. Your hands were trembling, your heart beating rapidly until you heard a loud bang on the window.

Raoul stopped, and straightened up, narrowing his eyes once more at you before exiting the room. You let out a breath, your body sinking in the chair you were sitting on. It was over, or so you would hope.

— — Hyunjin watched as the director banged on the glass of lab five, the vibration causing the glass to rattle. He glared at Raoul as he watched the man release you and walk to the door.

In his four years of working here, he’s never experienced a technician as brutal as Raoul, and it was unfortunate he was assigned to you.

You. The anomaly.

You were different than your peers. Typically your kind does not experience emotions, do not even know what they are. However, you showed promise as a little girl, being subjected to testing from a young age.

His father remembers you and was in awe, watching as you were taken from your mother at the ripe age of five and brought to the room with the other children. You hesitated and held on tighter to your mother’s hand, fear etched in your eyes at the strange people coming to take you away.

His father went on to say it took you a while to adjust, your days spent separated from the other children, as you didn’t want to interact with them. Of course overtime, you forgot your mother, and fell right into the routine of living here in the lab.

You excelled on your testing, the technicians surprised at how your grasped emotional concepts the others have not. You were the only one in the hundreds of Gevorians that lived here that had an inkling of similarity to human kind.

Over the last six months, that uniqueness showed as you had interesting results after taking the Rorschach test over and over. It seemed you could learn to encompass the emotional capacity the others lacked.

Hyunjin took notice and became interested in your progress, wanting to know more about you. He looked through your files, all the way from childhood to adolescence, studied your results and the potential you had to make it in the human world, which is ultimately the labs goal.

He took to watching your sessions, notebook in hand to take notes. Imagine his horror when he saw Raoul abusing you, berating you for not being able to feel. Hyunjin’s heart broke for you in your predicament as he’s sure you were confused, not being able to understand the emotions that were going through you during the sessions.

Eventually, he had had enough as he saw you crying one day as Raoul spat in your face and called you nothing once more. He marched to the director’s office then and there and demanded Raoul be taken off the case and that he be assigned to you instead.

At first the director was hesitant, not sure if he would be able to handle you, but after many reassurances, he was granted the request.

Hyunjin went so far as to ask to have your sessions in different places throughout the building, to see if it’ll help in your journey. He was very persuasive, promising positive outcomes, which was risky, but a risk he was willing to take. He remembered silently cheering when the director granted him that power.

Now, here he was with several other technicians and the director himself, all staring down at Raoul.

“As of today Raoul, you are no longer y/n’s technician. Hyunjin will take over their sessions,” the director said in a commanding tone, his hands placed behind his back challenging any defiance.

“What the fuck! I’m making progress! Can’t you see that!” Raoul screamed.

Hyunjin shook his head in disdain, “How? By abusing y/n? Berating them? How is that going to help you son of a bitch?”

“Hyunjin!” The director said, shock in his eyes. He turned to look back at Raoul, “you are not their technician any longer. That’s final.”

The director turned around and marched out, the other technicians filing behind him. Raoul turned toward Hyunjin furious.

“You think you can handle y/n? Good luck, you won’t make a dent. Don’t come crying to me when the director fires you because you failed in your task.”

Hyunjin wiped the spit from his face and watched Raoul storm away.

He was definitely up for the task, wanting to make sure you could have a fulfilling life. One that was better than the one you lived within these walls.

He turned to stare at you through the two way mirror, watching how you stared straight ahead, waiting for someone to get you. However, he looked closer, and noticed your face was wet, as tears streamed down your face.

You didn’t wipe them, but let them fall down your cheeks, onto your clothes as you most likely had no clue what you were feeling.

He watched as an orderly came to retrieve you, watching as you walked past him, not even giving him a second glance.

He would be successful if it’s the last thing he does. He can’t let a promising, talented person like you rot here within the lab. He will mold you, teach you, and take you under his wing.

And once Hyunjin sets a goal, he follows it through.

He can’t wait for your first session together.

He can’t wait to meet you.

Taglist: @jehhskz @jeonginsleftcheek @simpforleeknaur @armystay89 @palindrome969 @slut4hee @ivydoesit23 @amarecerasus @kaysungshine @fun-fanfics @baby-stay92 @velvetmoonlght @possum-playground @frehyun @seungminsbest @nightmarenyxx @linocvp1d @ddroh @redlightsallnight @eastjonowhere @stayjinnie

[shuuru]

On Ventus and Missing Ache

a.k.a On Ventus and Darkness™

Welp, this might as well happen.

Spoilers for Ux and Dark Road ahead.

edit: I just realised how to do one of these cuts, haha.

Ventus. Sweet baby Ventus. When he is introduced in Ux, he is probably like 11-12, kind, weaker than most Wielders, lonely and friendless before he joins the Union Leaders.

Baby boy. Baby.

And I swear I'm not exaggerating. These are some of the first sentences he says to the gang when they meet.

Where are your parents!?

When they're discussing Leader things, Ven is quiet until Skuld asks him about it and Ven tells them he will go along with whatever they decide. Ephemer tells him he can speak up but Ven clarifies the misunderstanding saying that he just isn't confident yet in guiding a Union. Brain tells him to grow a backgone. Lauriam calls him kind.

I bet Lauriam is thinking of Strel when he's saying this and this gives me a x2.0 psychic damage multiplier.

One day, Data-Daybreak Town starts glitching out all out the sudden and when Ephemer goes to investigate he finds Ventus fighting some Flappy Bugs but when we see his Keyblade is... not Wayward Wind.

Live reaction of me when I saw this: WHAT?! WHAT THE FUCK?!?

Let's have a look at the boys' Keyblades for a second.

Wayward Wind is called Fresh Breeze in Japanese and it's so cute. Next to it is the monstruosity that is Vanitas's Keyblade.

At first glance Wayward Wind and not-Void Gear (it's not called Void Gear, people. We have to deal with that) are not very similar but they're supposed to complement each other since both have "missing pieces" or are "incomplete".

And none of them look remotely similar to Missing Ache.

You will take Void Gear out of my cold, dead hands.

Now, to the star of the show.

[Cheering and clapping in the distance]

Ventus is not only using Missing Ache but an upgraded version of it that looks very cool. I've been told his Keyblade needs 4 out of 5 Reverse Medals that are considered dark medals so that's interesing I guess. (I never played Ux so I lack context)

[Image Source]

This is originally a Keychain that Roxas can wield in 358/2 Days, it's design obviously meant to be the Nobody symbol. It's very minimalistic compared to others we've seen, which makes it extra insane it has made me lose so much sleep. This Keyblade also has a recolor.

Missing Ache and Pain of Solitude

These two I'm pretty sure are meant to represent Roxas and Xion and they both talk about pain. Is it Missing because you lost it or Missing because you long for it? We don't know. Japanese won't help us here because their names are also in English.

I wanted to do a stretch and say Missing Ache actually looks more like Lost Memory but... no... I don't want to go there.

(I will clarify that this could be a "reusing assets" kind of situation because Missing Ache is a playable Keyblade. Still, I'm here to have fun and going insane is fun to me.)

Why am I insane about Ventus having this Keyblade? Because if you have the time to make a sprite of a Keyblade for one of your main characters, why not take the time to make it the Keyblade that we already associate with him?

In a meta sense, we have expectations for Ventus. We know him, we know OF him, so we expect to see Wayward Wind on his hands. This betrays our expectations, and it's on purpose. So why?

I think the real question is, even if Missing Ache is a placeholder, why isn't it Starlight? Ephemer and Skuld use the same Starlight and no one bats an eye. Brain uses Master's Defender (which was another what the fuck moment for me) and Laurian uses Divine Rose because of course he does.

Missing Ache has meaning because it's different, but maybe Missing Ache itself is not important.

My personal theory for the change in Keyblades is that Xehanort himself took amnesiac Ventus from the past and bequeated him a new Keyblade when he began training him (maybe because Ventus forgot he was a Keyblade Wielder when he time traveled) and that new Keyblade became Wayward Wind. We see him with it in the BBS flashback, reverse grip and everything.

"I want this twink obliterated." - Xehanort giving instructions to the neoshadows

Continuing with Ux, Brain figures out Ventus's name is not on the list Ava gave him and proceeds to tell him as such. Brain uses that maxxed INT stat of his to also conclude what happened with Strel and theorizes that darkness is involved in some way or another.

Ventus remembers a different version of his encounter with Master Ava but regains his memories after a beauty sleep. Enjoy.

Ventus Kingdomhearts, accomplice in murder.

Welp, that was intense.

It's interesting to me how Ventus doesn't look very possessed but he's very mindlessly following orders and just walks right next to Strel's body like she doesn't even exist. This makes me wonder if Darkness™ can manipulate memories.

We don't know exactly when or where Darkness™ hid inside of Ventus but if you allow me to theorize, I think it was a while ago, maybe even since The Book of Prophecies was written and Darkness™ got a chance to read it (more on this later). I also think Ventus had a similar situation as Baldr.

In Dark Road, Baldr loses his sister and is put (for some fucking reason) in solitary where his negative emotions make him spiral until his darkness gains form (THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT). This is to me the most unnerving moment of the entire franchise.

Fucking spooky.

And now, the reveal. From Ventus's body, comes forth...

Darkness™

One of the Thirteen and that's the reason it's ™

Personally, I consider Darkness™ an Eldrich horror. This is a creature beyond human understanding and MoM agrees with me.

This is an ancient being, present on the First Kayblade War that happened during MoM's time as a child but, despite everything, Darkness™ is very willing to just... talk. When Brain starts asking them questions, they answer and they seem very truthful. Like it's not on their nature to lie... Mmh.

Here's a transcript of their conversation because the Tumblr Overlords aren't letting me post any more pictures.

Brain: I have to say, I didn't expect you to look like such a cliché. Darkness: So you say. Darkness: But I have no form to speak of. Darkness: We mostly go unnoticed, after all. Darkness: What you see and hear now is for your benefit. Ephemer: What do you want? Darkness: Want? Darkness: I want nothing. Darkness: I simply am. Darkness: It must be hard for you to understand. Darkness: We're very different. Darkness: Unlike you, our actions don't serve a greater purpose or goal. Lauriam: Then why did you take my sister? Lauriam: Why Strelitzia? Darkness: It was his will. Skuld: I don't believe you. Skuld: Ven didn't even know her! Skuld: Besides, he would never wish that on anyone. Darkness: You're right. Darkness: They were strangers. Darkness: But what he wished for was power. Darkness: I simply helped him fulfill that wish by making him a Union leader. Skuld: Ven would never want that! Darkness: Wouldn't he? Ephemer: Even if he did, he wouldn't go so far as to take it from someone, or steal their spot as leader. Darkness: Power is power. How it's adquired is of no consequence.

Still thinking about this conversation to this day. What do you mean Ven wished for power? For what? Is this wishing of power enough to let Darkness™ in? And the way Darkness™ talks about it, like they were doing Ven a favor? Insane.

One of the many questions that plagues me to this day is if Ventus is aware of Darkness™ at all.

(Not relevant but this Darkness™ uses the same "you" (おまえ) pronoun in Japanese as Vanitas, which in the end means nothing because it's very common but fuels my wips like you wouldn't believe.)

Lauriam: Then… It could've been any of us? Lauriam: It didn't have to be Strelitzia? Darkness: Yes. Lauriam: You--

Ouch.

Brain: I have a few questions. Darkness: Go on. Brain: Why Ven? Darkness: Because it was decided. Brain: What was? Darkness: That he would harbor darkness. Brain: Your vessel was chosen? Darkness: Yes. Darkness: It was written in the Book of Prophecies. Brain: You've read the Book? Darkness: In a manner of speaking, yes. At least the parts that matter to us. Brain: How? Darkness: We read the words as they were being written. Brain: In the Book? Darkness: Yes. Brain: What exactly is your relationship with the Master? Darkness: We're old friends. Ephemer: Friends? Ephemer: Then you and the Master are on the same side? Darkness: We have no need to side with people.

It was decided that Ventus would harbor darkness. Has Ventus been destined for this because MoM saw it with his future eye? How far into the future? Was it this point? BBS point? Even further? Is Ventus a Princess of Light? These are the questions that keep me up at night.

Also, we have no need to side with people but MoM and them are old friends....? Mmmm, interesting.

Brain: You claimed you aren't after anything, Brain. but I'm not buying it. Darkness: What? Brain: You seem pretty desperate to get in our way, showing up like this. Brain: I don't know if it's pride or fear, but there's a reason you're still here. Darkness: … Darkness: Infection. Brain: Meaning? Darkness: Data transfer requires a signal. Darkness: The same goes for the hearts and minds of you humans. Darkness: You underestimated how easily the darkness rides on those signals. Darkness: … and spreads through this place. Brain: Is tha why you wormed your way into the data world? Brain: But then why hide inside Ven? Darkness: I told you. Because it was decided. Skuld: That's enough. Skuld: You're saying because it was written in the Book of Prophecies it was meant to be? Skuld: Well, I don't care. You hijacked Ven and attacked Lauriam's sister. Skuld: And now you're gonna pay for it! Brain: That's right Darkness: We are many, and we are one. Darkness: But to be one requires will. Darkness: Through him, we could divide into pure darkness and light… Darkness: …wilfull and distinct. Darkness: It was a sacrifice that needed to be made.

What I'm hearing here is that Darkness™ can gently separate Ventus and themselves between darkness and light and they way Xehanort did it was very sloppy.

Also, interesting how they consider individuality to be a sacrifice.

Darklings appear in the room and it seems Ven is the one they're looking for. Ventus regains consciousness and starts... shining? his light so strong it covers his entire body? and he absolutely destroys the Darklings that were surrounding him.

Insane power up.

Ventus stands up to Darkness™ and delivers the best piece of dialogue since "At least I have some!"

Ventus: If you're pure darkness, then that makes me pure light. Ventus: If you used me to reshape yourself, Ventus: then I can reshape you again. Ventus: I'll give you a new form… Ventus: …that we can defeat!

Ventus attacks Darkness™ with Missing Ache in hand and then fade to white.

And that's it. This is the last we see of this specific Darkness™ and Ventus is sleeping the rest of the game before he time travels to the future. They both now inhabit the same body and, as Lauriam theorizes, Darkness™ has probably become a part of Ventus. Chocolate powder and milk. Forever.

Well... Until.

Thank you for reading, I've been working on this for a week and it was a pain to write, but I had fun crying at the finale of Ux again. I had a lot more things I wanted to talk about, like Ventus regaining some memories of his past after KH3, the fact that we see a character create his own darkness from negative emotions and yet Vanitas is supposed to be one of the 13 Darknesses and how I can compare Darkness™ to Skynet in some way but I think that's for another theory post.

Have a great day, everyone.

[theink-stainedfolk]

New WIP!!!

A Thousand Miles of Light

---

In the quiet aftermath of a life-altering accident, seventeen-year-old Shibata Yoru wakes with no memories except a single, vivid fragment: his grandmother’s gentle voice promising that those who love you never truly leave—they become your guardian angels. Adrift in a world that feels both foreign and fragile, Yoru navigates his fractured past and the looming threat of a relentless bully gang. But he’s not alone. At his side is Miyazaki Senri, a vibrant, auburn-haired boy with a knack for bad jokes and an unshakable loyalty—visible only to Yoru. Claiming to be sent by Yoru’s grandmother, Senri is a whirlwind of light in Yoru’s shadowed nights, guiding him toward strength, self-discovery, and the courage to face his fears.

As Yoru trains at a local dojo to protect himself, his bond with Senri deepens, marked by shared laughter, quiet confessions, and moments that feel like memories he can’t quite grasp. But Senri’s presence carries a mystery, and the fragments of Yoru’s past begin to stir, hinting at a truth that could change everything. In a journey woven with grief, hope, and the enduring power of love, Yoru learns that some connections transcend time, memory, and even the boundaries of life itself.

---

Character Introduction

Shibata Yoru

Age: 17

Birthday: November 12

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Ethnicity: Japanese

Height: 5’8” (173 cm)

Build: Lean, slightly wiry, with a subtle strength from recent dojo training

Eyes: Dark gray, almost black, with a piercing, introspective gaze

Hair: Jet-black, slightly messy, falling just past his ears; often tucked behind one ear or under a scarf

Skin Tone: Pale, with a faint cool undertone

Dominant Hand: Right

Style: Minimalist and practical—dark jeans, loose sweaters, and a signature scarf he wears year-round, even in summer. Prefers muted colors like navy, charcoal, and black. His clothing feels like a shield, hiding his vulnerability.

Moodboard: A quiet night sky with faint stars, a single lit window in a dark apartment building, a worn journal with ink smudges, a black scarf draped over a chair, rain on a windowpane, a dojo mat, a single pressed flower tucked in a book.

Appearance:

Yoru has a reserved, almost ethereal presence, like a shadow that blends into the background. His sharp features and dark eyes give him a brooding, unapproachable air, but there’s a softness in the way his hair falls over his forehead or how his lips twitch when he’s trying not to smile. His movements are deliberate, almost catlike, reflecting his growing confidence from training, though he still carries himself with a slight hunch, as if guarding something fragile.

Past:

Yoru’s past is a haze due to his accident-induced amnesia. He knows he lived alone in a small apartment, cared for by a loving grandmother who passed away before the incident. Fragments of her warmth—her rough hands, her gentle voice—linger in his mind, anchoring him. He was a quiet, solitary teen even before the accident, often targeted for his reserved nature. The details of his life before are like stars hidden behind clouds, waiting to be uncovered.

Personality & Traits

✔ Introspective: Yoru spends more time in his head than in the world, piecing together his lost memories.

✔ Stoic: He hides his emotions behind a calm, unreadable exterior, rarely speaking unless necessary.

✔ Loyal: Once he trusts someone, his devotion is unwavering, though he struggles to express it.

✔ Resilient: Despite his fragility, he pushes through pain and fear, driven by a quiet determination.

✔ Observant: Notices small details others miss, like the way someone’s voice changes when they’re lying.

✔ Protective: Subtly protective of those he cares about, even if he doesn’t admit it.

✔ Vulnerable: Beneath his stoicism lies a deep fear of being alone or forgotten.

Hobbies:

Reading (mostly old novels or poetry, found in secondhand bookstores).

Journaling (scribbling thoughts or fragments of memories, though he rarely shares them).

Training at the dojo (a new habit, reluctantly embraced).

Stargazing (a quiet ritual that feels like reaching for something he can’t name).

Quirks:

Always adjusts his scarf when nervous, tugging it over his chin.

Taps his fingers in a slow rhythm when deep in thought.

Keeps small objects (like coins or pebbles) in his pocket for no clear reason.

Pauses before answering questions, as if weighing every word.

Likes & Dislikes

✅ Likes:

Quiet nights with soft music.

The smell of rain.

Black tea with sugar.

Old books with handwritten notes in the margins.

Senri’s laughter (though he’d never admit it).

The feeling of a good sparring session.

❌ Dislikes:

Crowds and loud noises.

Being pitied or fussed over.

Spicy food (it makes him cough).

People who talk too much without saying anything meaningful.

Forgetting things, even small ones.

Feeling helpless.

Favorite Food:

Plain rice with miso soup (simple, comforting).

Anpan (sweet red bean buns, a faint memory of his grandmother).

Candied apples (after the festival with Senri).

A Line That Defines Him:

“I don’t need to remember everything—just enough to know I’m not alone.”

~~~

Miyazaki Senri

Age: Appears 17

Birthday: April 22

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Ethnicity: Japanese

Height: 5’10” (178 cm)

Build: Athletic but not bulky, with a lanky grace that makes his antics look effortless

Eyes: Warm hazel, flecked with gold, always sparkling with mischief or kindness

Hair: Auburn-brown, tousled and slightly long, with a natural shine that catches the light

Skin Tone: Warm, lightly tanned, with a healthy glow

Dominant Hand: Left

Style: Casual and vibrant—graphic tees with silly slogans, colorful sneakers, and a scarf he “borrows” from Yoru to tease him. His style feels alive, like he’s making up for lost time.

Moodboard: A sunrise over a city, a crumpled notebook full of bad jokes, a sparkler burning bright, a breeze rustling festival lanterns, a pair of worn sneakers, a doodle of a bird flying across a page, a warm cup of tea left on a windowsill.

Appearance:

Senri is a burst of energy made human—his auburn hair always seems to catch the light, and his hazel eyes crinkle with every grin. His movements are fluid, almost theatrical, whether he’s balancing a chopstick on his nose or dodging through a crowd. There’s a warmth to him that draws the eye, even if no one else can see him. A faint sadness lingers in his quieter moments, like a shadow behind his smile.

Past:

Senri’s past is deliberately vague—he claims he was sent by Yoru’s grandmother and leaves it at that. His knowledge of Yoru’s life and habits suggests a deeper connection, but he deflects questions with jokes or cryptic smiles. He seems to carry a lightness that hides something heavier, as if he’s guarding his own story as much as he’s guarding Yoru.

Personality & Traits

✔ Charismatic: Senri’s warmth and humor make him impossible to ignore, even as a spectral presence.

✔ Protective: Fiercely dedicated to keeping Yoru safe, often at his own expense.

✔ Playful: Loves teasing and making people laugh, especially Yoru.

✔ Empathetic: Senses Yoru’s emotions even when Yoru doesn’t express them.

✔ Reckless: Takes risks (even as a guardian) to protect or entertain, sometimes to a fault.

✔ Nostalgic: Has moments of quiet longing, as if remembering something he can’t share.

✔ Resilient: Bounces back from setbacks with a smile, refusing to let darkness linger.

Hobbies:

Making up terrible jokes and writing them in an imaginary notebook.

People-watching (and narrating their lives like a soap opera).

“Helping” Yoru cook (mostly by taste-testing and commenting).

Dancing, especially when no one’s watching (or so he thinks).

Quirks:

Hums off-key when he’s thinking.

Tries to high-five people who can’t see him, then laughs at himself.

Always adjusts Yoru’s scarf when it slips, even if Yoru grumbles.

Leaves small “gifts” (like doodles or pebbles) around Yoru’s apartment.

Likes & Dislikes

✅ Likes:

Festivals and bright lights.

Telling stories, even if they’re exaggerated.

Yoru’s rare smiles.

Takoyaki with extra sauce.

The sound of rain (but not storms).

Making people feel less alone.

❌ Dislikes:

Bullies or anyone who hurts the vulnerable.

Silence that feels heavy or sad.

Being ignored (even if he’s invisible).

Bitter foods (he makes a face just thinking about them).

Seeing Yoru scared or hurt.

Talking about himself too much.

Favorite Food:

Takoyaki (he pretends to steal Yoru’s).

Strawberry mochi (he “misses” the taste).

Yoru’s homemade rice and soup (he claims it’s the best).

A Line That Defines Him:

“I’d cross a thousand miles just to see you shine, even for a second.”

---

My ♡s: @paeliae-occasionally @willtheweaver @drchenquill @wyked-ao3 @the-inkwell-variable @corinneglass @seastarblue @keeping-writing-frosty @oliolioxenfreewrites @vesanal @orphanheirs @dauntlessdraupadi @oros-ash3s @pheonix358 @loveyouloatheyou @write-with-will

[republicsecurity]

Inside the Watchful Walls: Life of an Enforcer Conscript Prison Guard

By James Dunnett Republic Special Correspondent

The first thing you notice stepping inside the High-Security Reform and Detention Facility #17 isn’t what you expect from a place that houses dangerous prisoners: it’s the quiet. A gentle hum of hidden climate controls, air scrubbers, and soft artificial wind whispering through projected foliage lend an almost meditative quality to the scene. Brutalist concrete, polished smooth, frames expansive windows letting in diffuse, natural light. At times, you forget this is a prison at all.

A Prisoner is taken to court.

But it is—and that’s precisely the point.

“We’re reforming minds, not breaking them,” says Conscript Z3M12 through the sleek, transparent faceplate of his black angular helmet. His voice is even, reassuring, yet carries the weight of ideological certainty that the Security Forces instill deeply into their conscripts. Z3M12, just 19, is already in his second year of conscript duty, stationed here as an Enforcer Prison Guard.

Like all Enforcer Conscripts at Facility #17, Z3M12 wears a matte-black, segmented body armour suit, visually imposing and functionally invulnerable to physical attacks from prisoners. This invulnerability changes the dynamic. Guards can afford to relax, chat, even gently correct and guide prisoners without ever fearing harm.

“The armour removes physical threat, allowing us genuine interaction,” Z3M12 explains as he walks beside prisoners during their daily physical training, offering tips and correcting postures. The prisoners, clad in their regulation orange jumpsuits, occasionally flash smiles of appreciation. There’s respect here—but always a clear line that is never crossed.

The conscripts’ approach isn’t only physical. Every guard knows each prisoner by name, case history, psychological profile. Enforcers undergo conditioning — an ideological blend of unwavering discipline, tempered empathy, and a commitment to the reformative mission of the Republic.

“It’s not just enforcement—it’s personal, ideological care,” Conscript H4T87 says quietly. H4T87, 18, has a young face marred slightly by teenage acne under his sleek helmet. He supervises a prisoner art therapy session. Prisoners paint carefully on canvases in an austere but softly lit studio, encouraged by H4T87's gentle critiques. The guard's suit, powerful and futuristic, contrasts starkly with the vulnerable expressions of creativity he oversees.

Facility #17 represents the subtlety of the Republic’s broader ideological ambitions. Concrete and glass, modernity interwoven with plant projections and engineered tranquility, form part of a sophisticated infrastructure of subtle, omnipresent control. At first glance, it seems humane, even kind. Yet beneath the pristine surfaces and thoughtful features—meditation rooms, art therapy sessions, structured dialogues—a deeper machinery of psychological and political conditioning operates silently.

In a minimalist meditation chamber, prisoners sit cross-legged, faces serene against projected green leaves rustling softly on bare concrete walls. Conscript D5S04 stands motionless, watching from behind a transparent faceplate.

He nods approval, his expression gently inscrutable. D5S04 later admits, "Meditation helps them recalibrate, accept the necessity of personal change."

But what exactly does personal change mean in this context?

“Rehabilitation isn’t neutral,” explains Prison Director Yana Tarrant, a civilian official who oversees conscript conditioning alongside prisoner reform. “It’s ideological. We don’t hide that fact. Every guard, every program here reinforces a vision of what a citizen should be.”

A group of Conscripts Prisons Guards talk to the director of the Prison

To the Republic, a citizen should be disciplined, community-oriented, compliant, and conditioned to serve the collective good above personal desire. The prison thus acts as a microcosm of society—a controlled environment where guards and prisoners alike live under carefully calibrated rules, subtly pushing toward conformity and productivity.

“It’s a long game,” Tarrant says calmly. “Today’s prisoner could become tomorrow’s grade one citizen. We’ve seen it happen. We rely on our guards to make it happen.”

They helps with physical fitness

Back in the gymnasium, Conscript Z3M12 adjusts the form of an older prisoner lifting weights. “Better posture,” Z3M12 says softly, his voice quiet but firm. “We all carry weight here. It’s our job to carry it properly.”

For a brief moment, the guard and prisoner exchange a look—shared understanding, perhaps even mutual respect. But the ideological boundaries remain crystal clear, invisible yet stronger than the thickest concrete walls around them.

As Conscripts Z3M12 concludes, “Reform is about the heart and mind. The armour protects our bodies, yes, but the Republic protects our thoughts.”

There’s a subtle shiver in those words, as gentle yet relentless as the artificial breeze rustling the digital leaves projected onto the concrete walls.

A Enforcer Therapist helps a prisoner

[torspski]

Young Adult Nigel Uno/Numbuh 1

Appearance: Nigel stands at 5'5"ft, his lean but athletic build a testament to years of rigorous training and leadership. His iconic bald head remains unchanged, now giving him a more commanding and refined presence. His sharp facial features—high cheekbones, a strong jawline, and a slightly furrowed brow—add to his intense and calculating demeanor. His signature sunglasses have been upgraded to a sleeker, more high-tech design, seamlessly integrating with his tactical gear. Whether resting on the bridge of his nose or hanging from his coat pocket, they remain an unmistakable part of his identity. Nigel’s attire exudes cool professionalism, blending formality with a tactical edge. He wears a perfectly tailored long coat , either deep navy or charcoal gray, fitted yet flexible for movement. Underneath, a crisp button-up dress shirt , usually black or dark blue, remains neatly pressed, with the top button undone for a touch of effortless style. His slim-fit dress pants are subtly reinforced for durability, allowing him to move with precision when necessary. On his feet, sleek black dress boots complete the ensemble—polished enough for formal meetings yet rugged enough for action. A minimalist but highly advanced wristwatch rests on his left wrist, its seemingly simple design hiding encrypted communication functions. His belt, while appearing standard, contains hidden compartments for small tools or gadgets, always keeping him prepared.

Personality: As a young adult, Nigel Uno has grown into a composed and strategic thinker, retaining his unshakable determination while refining his once rigid, all-business approach. No longer affiliated with the KND, TND, or GKND, he operates independently, guided by pragmatism, discipline, and a strong moral compass, While still highly logical and tactical, he now values adaptability, assessing situations with patience rather than rushing into action. His quiet confidence and composure naturally draw people in, and though he is not overly talkative, his words are always measured, direct, and impactful, often laced with dry wit. Experience has tempered his idealism, teaching him that the world isn’t just black and white—he acknowledges the gray areas of conflict and decision-making, making him a more nuanced and perceptive individual. Though he keeps most people at a professional distance, those who earn his trust find a fiercely loyal and dependable ally. He respects competence and integrity, valuing actions over words. While no longer the idealistic child he once was, at his core, Nigel Uno remains a leader, a strategist, and a protector—one who now operates on his own terms.

Headcannons

Early Riser, Efficient Routine: Nigel is an early riser, beginning his day before sunrise with a disciplined routine. He starts with a cold shower to invigorate himself, followed by catching up on the news and a light workout to stay sharp. Efficiency is his mantra; he despises wasting time on trivial distractions. Every moment of his morning is meticulously planned, ensuring he’s prepared for whatever the day throws at him. This structured approach reflects his broader philosophy: time is a resource, and he intends to use it wisely.

Minimalist Living: Nigel’s living space is a testament to his minimalist mindset. His apartment—or wherever he stays—is impeccably tidy, with only the essentials in sight. He avoids sentimental clutter, believing it distracts from practicality. However, he does keep one well-preserved memento from his childhood, tucked away in a private spot. This single item serves as a quiet reminder of his roots, a rare concession to sentimentality in an otherwise no-nonsense lifestyle.

Unmatched Poker Face: Years of training and experience have honed Nigel’s ability to remain unreadable. His expressions rarely betray his emotions, making it nearly impossible for others to discern his thoughts. This skill is invaluable in high-stakes situations, where revealing too much could be a liability. However, those who know him well can detect subtle shifts in his demeanor, a testament to their deep understanding of his character.

Deep but Selective Loyalty: Nigel’s trust is hard to earn but unwavering once given. He values competence and integrity above all, and his closest allies are those who prove themselves through actions rather than words. His loyalty is not blind; it’s earned through mutual respect and shared values. Once someone has his trust, he will go to great lengths to protect and support them, making him a steadfast and reliable ally.

Reads People Instinctively: Nigel’s sharp observational skills allow him to read people with remarkable accuracy. He analyzes body language, tone, and subtle cues to gauge true intentions, making him a skilled negotiator and strategist. This ability to see beneath the surface enables him to stay several steps ahead in any interaction. Whether in a boardroom or a battlefield, Nigel’s insight into human behavior is a formidable asset.

Prefers Function Over Fashion, But Still Looks Cool: Nigel’s wardrobe is a blend of practicality and understated style. He favors tailored coats, dress shirts, and tactical wear in neutral or dark colors, all designed for mobility and ease of movement. While he prioritizes function over fashion, his refined choices give him a cool, composed appearance. His attire reflects his personality: simple, efficient, and always prepared.

Carries a Notebook Instead of Using a Phone for Planning: Despite being technologically adept, Nigel prefers to carry a notebook for planning and note-taking. He finds that writing things down helps him focus and organize his thoughts more effectively. His notebook is a repository of observations, strategies, and insights on people and places he encounters. This analog approach underscores his intentionality and attention to detail.

Understands the Necessity of Violence, But Doesn't Enjoy It: Nigel is a highly skilled fighter, but he views combat as a last resort. He prefers to resolve conflicts through logic and strategy rather than force. However, when violence is unavoidable, he is precise, efficient, and controlled, never acting recklessly. His approach to conflict reflects his broader philosophy: every action should have a purpose, and unnecessary risks are to be avoided.

Still Has a Sense of Humor, But It's Sharper and Drier: Though serious and composed, Nigel hasn’t lost his sense of humor. His wit is sharp and dry, often catching people off guard with perfectly timed remarks delivered with a straight face. This subtle humor adds depth to his character, revealing a lighter side that contrasts with his otherwise stoic demeanor.

Respected But Not Untouchable: Nigel is a respected leader, but his style has evolved over time. He now listens more, values input from his team, and delegates responsibilities rather than shouldering everything alone. His team sees him as a backbone but also recognizes his humanity. This balance of authority and approachability makes him an effective and admired leader.

The Older Brother Figure: Nigel naturally takes on the role of an older brother, especially with Wally and Hoagie. He keeps them in check but also relaxes around them, allowing himself to joke and be less serious. He nudges Wally toward maturity and respects Hoagie’s intellect, often engaging him in discussions about tactics and strategy. This dynamic highlights his protective yet nurturing nature.

Still Has High Standards, But More Understanding: Nigel expects competence and discipline but has grown more patient over time. He knows when to push and when to let go, helping others learn from their mistakes rather than simply reprimanding them. This evolution in his leadership style reflects a deeper understanding of human growth and the value of mentorship.

Protective, But Knows When to Step Back: While Nigel is protective of his friends, he no longer overprotects them as he did in his youth. He trusts them to handle their own challenges but remains watchful, ready to step in if necessary. This balance between support and independence strengthens his relationships and fosters mutual respect.

Can Switch From Warm to Dead Serious Instantly: Nigel’s demeanor can shift instantly from warm and relaxed to calm and calculated. With his friends, he’s open and witty, but when a situation turns serious, he becomes focused and composed. This ability to adapt his presence to the moment is both impressive and intimidating, showcasing his versatility as a leader.

Enjoys Solitude but Not Isolation: Nigel values alone time for reflection, journaling, or reading, but he no longer isolates himself emotionally. He chooses to be present with his friends, balancing his need for solitude with meaningful connections. This shift reflects his growth and willingness to embrace vulnerability.

Professor of Strategy and Tactics: Nigel takes his vast knowledge of warfare and leadership into academia, becoming a highly respected professor specializing in historic wars, battle strategies, and tactical warfare. His lectures are known for their depth, real-world applications, and intense yet engaging teaching style.

Tough but Fair Mentor: While Nigel has high expectations, he genuinely cares about his students' success. He challenges them to think critically, question traditional tactics, and develop their own strategic reasoning. Despite his stern demeanor, he takes time to mentor those who show potential, earning deep respect from his students.

Guest Lecturer and Consultant: His expertise makes him a sought-after speaker for military academies and strategic think tanks. While he prefers teaching, he occasionally consults on high-level tactical matters, providing insight into unconventional warfare.

Respected by All: Whether in the field or the classroom, Nigel commands respect. His presence alone demands attention, and his words carry weight. His students, peers, and old teammates know that if Nigel Uno speaks, it’s worth listening to.

Friday Night Tradition: Every two Fridays, Nigel and Wally have an unspoken agreement to meet up at a local bar for drinks. It started as a casual catch-up but quickly became a tradition—a way for them to unwind from their responsibilities and reminisce about their KND days. Wally, being more social, drags Nigel into conversations with strangers, while Nigel mostly listens, offering his occasional dry humor and strategic insights into whatever wild scenario Wally is ranting about. Though Nigel isn’t a heavy drinker, he enjoys the routine and the sense of normalcy it brings. It’s one of the few times he allows himself to truly relax, and despite his more serious nature, he appreciates the bond they share over these nights out.

Boys’ Night Regular: Despite his initial reluctance, Nigel has become a semi-regular at "Boys’ Night" with Wally, Hoagie, Patton, and occasionally other former KND operatives. At first, he wasn’t sure if it was his thing—he's not as loud or competitive as the rest of them—but over time, he found himself enjoying the camaraderie. Whether it’s game night, grilling out, or just hanging around talking about life, Nigel values these moments more than he admits. It gives him a chance to let his guard down, to not always be the responsible leader, and just enjoy being part of a group again. Even though Wally insists Nigel should “loosen up” more, the others appreciate his dry wit and surprising talent for strategy-based games. These nights remind Nigel that, no matter how much life changes, some friendships remain constant.

Office of Secrets: His office is a reflection of his past, filled with books, maps, and relics from historical battles. A few subtle nods to his childhood missions exist, though he never explicitly confirms their significance. His students often wonder if their professor has lived through the strategies he teache

Still Can’t Fully Relax, But He Tries: Nigel struggles to fully unwind, but his friends help him relax, whether it’s Hoagie dragging him into a movie night or Wally handing him a game controller. These moments of forced relaxation are a reminder that even the most disciplined individuals need downtime.

No Longer Sees the World in Black & White: As a younger man, Nigel viewed the world in stark terms of good versus evil. However, experience has taught him the value of nuance and the complexity of human nature. While this understanding has made him wiser, it has also burdened him with more difficult decisions. He now recognizes that not every situation has a clear-cut answer, and this awareness shapes his approach to leadership and life.

Still Has Moments of Doubt, But Hides Them Well: Despite his confident exterior, Nigel occasionally grapples with doubt. There are nights when he questions whether he’s making the right decisions or leading his team in the best direction. He hides these moments well, masking his uncertainty with composure, but they reveal the depth of his introspection and the weight of his responsibilities.

Has a ‘You Can Always Call Me’ Policy: No matter the time or how busy he is, Nigel makes it clear that his friends can always reach out to him. He might not always have the answers, but he’ll be there to listen, support, or offer guidance. This unwavering reliability is a cornerstone of his relationships, demonstrating his loyalty and commitment to those he cares about.

Prefers a Clean & Organized Space, But Knows When to Let Go: Nigel values a tidy and functional living space, but he’s not obsessive about it. He understands that messes can be a sign of life and fun, especially when his friends are around. While he prefers order, he knows when to let go and enjoy the moment, balancing his need for structure with the joy of spontaneity.

Still Eats Simple Foods Like Toast & Cereal When Rushed: Despite his growth and maturity, Nigel hasn’t outgrown his practical approach to meals. When he’s focused or in a hurry, he defaults to simple, quick foods like toast or cereal. This habit is a nod to his no-nonsense attitude and his ability to prioritize efficiency, even in the smallest aspects of life.

Has a Signature "Thinking Pose": Nigel has a distinctive way of showing he’s deep in thought, whether it’s crossing his arms, rubbing his chin, or tilting his head. His friends recognize this pose and know to give him space to process before speaking. This quiet moment of reflection is a hallmark of his thoughtful and deliberate nature.

Doesn’t Show Off, But Has a Quiet Confidence: Unlike some of his peers, Nigel doesn’t feel the need to flaunt his abilities. His confidence is understated but unmistakable, radiating through his calm demeanor and precise actions. People instinctively sense that he’s not someone to be underestimated, even without overt displays of strength or skill.

Can Still Be a Little Stubborn, But Has Learned to Listen: While Nigel can be stubborn, he’s grown to recognize the value of listening to others. He no longer insists on making every decision himself and has learned to trust the input of his team. This evolution in his leadership style reflects his maturity and his understanding that collaboration often leads to better outcomes.

Understands Wally: Nigel and Wally share a bond that often transcends words. A simple nod, glance, or pat on the back is enough to convey trust, loyalty, and mutual respect. This silent understanding is a testament to the depth of their friendship and the years of shared experiences that have solidified their connection.

Still Struggles to Open Up About Himself: While Nigel is an excellent listener and advisor, he finds it difficult to open up about his own struggles. Only a select few people get to see this vulnerable side of him, as he prefers to keep his emotions guarded. This reluctance to share reflects his deeply private nature and the weight he carries as a leader.

No Longer Feels the Need to Prove Himself: As a younger leader, Nigel often felt the need to prove his worth and capabilities. Now, he’s confident enough to let his actions speak for themselves. This shift in mindset has allowed him to lead with greater authenticity and focus on what truly matters, rather than seeking validation from others.

Understands That Not Everything Can Be Fixed: Nigel has come to terms with the fact that not every problem has a solution. While he still strives to resolve issues whenever possible, he recognizes that some things must be accepted and moved on from. This acceptance has brought him a sense of peace and resilience, even in the face of challenges.

Never Lets His Guard Down Completely: Even in moments of relaxation, Nigel maintains a level of awareness. Years of leadership and high-stakes situations have ingrained in him a habit of always being prepared. While he’s learned to relax more than he used to, he’s never fully off-duty, a testament to his unwavering sense of responsibility.

Has a Quiet Pride in His Team: While Nigel isn’t one for grand gestures or effusive praise, he takes quiet pride in his team’s accomplishments. He shows his appreciation through small, meaningful actions, like a nod of approval or a rare compliment. His team knows that his quiet pride is hard-earned and deeply genuine.

Rarely Takes a Day Off, But Should: Nigel’s work ethic is unmatched, and he rarely takes a full day off. Even on supposed rest days, he’s often found reviewing plans, reading, or engaging in light training. His friends occasionally have to intervene, reminding him that even the most dedicated leaders need to recharge. While he acknowledges their point, stepping away completely still feels unnatural to him.

Has a Soft Spot for Animals: Despite his tough exterior, Nigel has a soft spot for animals, especially dogs. He admires their loyalty and straightforward nature, qualities he values in people as well. If he ever has a pet, it’s likely a well-trained, no-nonsense breed that matches his personality. This unexpected tenderness adds depth to his character, showing that even the most disciplined individuals have their softer side.

Still Dreams Big, But Grounded in Reality: While Nigel has matured and become more pragmatic, he hasn’t lost his ability to dream big. He balances his ambitions with a clear-eyed understanding of what’s achievable, setting goals that are challenging yet realistic. This blend of vision and practicality makes him a formidable leader and a steady presence in any situation.

[shivaniboutique]

Wedding Gown for Bride

The style you're envisioning? Here are a few options to guide your preferences:

Classic and Timeless: A-line or ball gown silhouette with lace detailing and a long train.

Modern and Minimalist: Sleek, clean lines with a fitted silhouette in satin or crepe.

Bohemian: Flowy, lightweight fabrics with floral embroidery or crochet lace.

Glamorous: Mermaid or trumpet silhouette with sparkling embellishments or sequins.

Romantic: Off-the-shoulder design with tulle or chiffon layers.

Let me know what resonates with you, and I can elaborate further or even help visualize the gown!

[vedaverseworld]

VedaVerse: Best Yoga Teacher Training In India

VedaVerse is the best yoga school in rishikesh, India, registered with Yoga Alliance & 200 and 300 Hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training in India. Enquire Now!

Why Choose India for Yoga Teacher Training?

India is where yoga originated over 5,000 years ago, and it remains the spiritual hub for practitioners worldwide. Training in India allows you to immerse yourself in the ancient teachings of yoga, (Yoga Teacher Training india) guided by gurus and masters who have dedicated their lives to this sacred discipline.

Cultural and Spiritual Immersion

Indian yoga schools often integrate traditional practices, including pranayama (breathing techniques), meditation, and chanting, creating a holistic approach to learning.

Authenticity and Expertise

Indian yoga teacher training programs prioritize authenticity. Most schools follow the guidelines of Yoga Alliance, ensuring internationally recognized certifications.

Hatha Yoga Teacher Training in India

Hatha Yoga is one of the most popular yoga disciplines, focusing on physical postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama) to balance the mind and body. Many schools in India specialize in Hatha Yoga, making it the perfect starting point for aspiring teachers.

Key Components of Hatha Yoga Training

Asanas (Postures): Learn the foundational poses that form the core of yoga practice.

Pranayama (Breath Control): Master breathing techniques to enhance energy flow.

Meditation: Develop mindfulness and spiritual awareness.

Yoga Philosophy: Study the ancient texts like Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita.

Teaching Methodology: Gain the skills to teach and adapt yoga classes for diverse groups.

Best Locations for Hatha Yoga Teacher Training

Rishikesh: Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh offers a serene environment alongside the sacred Ganges River.

Kerala: Combine yoga with Ayurveda in this tranquil southern state.

Mysore: Famous for Ashtanga and Hatha Yoga, Mysore provides an enriching learning experience.

Top Yoga Courses in India

India offers a plethora of courses tailored to meet the diverse needs of yoga enthusiasts. Here are the top programs to consider:

200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training

Ideal for beginners, this course covers fundamental asanas, pranayama, meditation, and anatomy. After completion, participants are certified as RYT-200 (Registered Yoga Teacher).

300-Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training

Designed for those with prior experience, this program delves deeper into advanced postures, yoga therapy, and teaching methodologies.

500-Hour Comprehensive Training

A combination of the 200-hour and 300-hour courses, this rigorous program offers an all-encompassing understanding of yoga and its practices.

Choosing the Right Yoga School in India

Selecting the right school is crucial for a fulfilling YTT experience. Look for:

Accreditation: Ensure the school is registered with Yoga Alliance.

Experienced Teachers: Check the credentials and teaching experience of the faculty.

Curriculum: Opt for a program that aligns with your goals.

Location: Choose a location that complements your learning and personal growth journey.

The Benefits of Yoga Teacher Training in India

Professional Certification

Upon completing a YTT program in India, you’ll receive a certification recognized globally, enabling you to teach yoga anywhere.

Personal Transformation

Beyond professional growth, YTT in India fosters profound personal transformation, instilling discipline, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with oneself.

Global Networking

Studying in India brings together yoga enthusiasts from all corners of the globe, offering opportunities to form lasting friendships and professional networks.

Practical Tips for Your Yoga Journey in India

Pack Smart: Bring comfortable yoga attire and essentials like a yoga mat and reusable water bottle.

Embrace Simplicity: Many schools offer basic accommodations and vegetarian meals, encouraging a minimalist lifestyle.

Stay Open-Minded: Immerse yourself fully in the culture and practices, even if they seem unfamiliar at first.

Health Precautions: Ensure you’re vaccinated and carry any necessary medications.

Embark on Your Yoga Journey Today

India offers an unparalleled experience for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of yoga or start a teaching career. From the mystical streets of Rishikesh to the serene backwaters of Kerala, every aspect of your journey will enrich your mind, body, and soul.

[morushroom]

- The Monument -

Eternal night, and impenetrable darkness. Only purple gravel beneath his feet broke the silence that seemed to inhabit this planet.

The wanderer walked without a specific route, and in his once fiery eyes, now reflecting empty, purple plains, where only he alone was soon destined to perish. Although perhaps thoughts of the expedition’s dismal outcome were just another whim of his now hopeless mind. Isaac left all his optimism in the brightly white shuttle with a less bright name, “TC-2542,” which his colleagues sent beyond Earth’s orbit with such trepidation.

This shuttle could hardly be called a pride of Soviet rocketry, as the debut of this craft was almost daily postponed, causing some engineers to even work double shifts to meet the deadline. Eventually, the masterpiece of minimalist art was completed on time, and surprisingly, according to the tests conducted, it could have launched beyond Earth’s orbit.

But alas, not a single brave soul volunteered to pilot this craft. Not a single high-ranking member of the team was willing to send one of the trained cosmonauts in a hastily assembled tin can. The demonstration was on the verge of failure due to the reluctance of people in power to lose human resources.

However, suddenly, one of the engineers bravely volunteered. With only a few hours left until the demonstration, he, unprepared, clumsily but skillfully squeezed into the spacesuit. In the youth of the boy, dreams of conquering space for his surroundings were akin to fantasies that would never come true. His father, a simple worker in the engineering industry, guided his son along his path as he grew up, while the boy floated in the clouds, immersed in his seemingly unattainable dreams.

But here he was, inside, looking at Soviet citizens and his colleagues through the fogged window, involuntarily seeking the gaze of those who didn’t believe in him. Hoping they would see him through his image, surrounded by joyful posters and dressed in a tight, snowy-white spacesuit.

The young man’s name was Isaac.

The goal of his mission was groundbreaking – to land on a planet outside the Solar System and provide any evidence of it. He left his native home on the left, and on the right awaited what he had dreamed of – to become a milestone in the history of mankind.

And here he was, flying through the parting clouds before him, once serving as the boundary between him and his dreams.

His triumph over fate was short-lived, and at the crossing of the atmosphere, he lost his sight, and soon communication with Earth. Isaac never dared to give up. This victory was his own, a victory over those who doubted him. Those who made him engage in something Isaac never saw himself doing. But these memories… As if they were insignificant compared to the boundless cosmos, which humanity implicitly pledged to conquer. As if Isaac’s life meant something against the greatest achievement of humanity, which he would be proud of upon returning home, to the warm kitchen, permeated with the aroma of a hearty dinner.

Isaac fumbled for his food supplies.

Over time, the young man could only see with his right eye, while the left one only throbbed with unbearable pain when he tried to open it. Making an improvised bandage, Isaac, taking a deep breath, boldly continued his journey away from Earth. The onboard computer had no connection, but there was a backup copy of the database of known planets. Isaac suddenly remembered his choice back on Earth — out of all planets he chose the one whose appearance was the most exotic: purple sands, inverted pyramids and mysterious turquoise lights wandering the sky.

The planet Violaceum was Isaac’s final destination.

The shuttle landed without incident, and out of it stepped Isaac with a daring step, planting the proud red flag of the Soviet Union on the soft surface of the planet, which against the backdrop of alien landscapes looked particularly exotic. Majestic purple dunes rose under the enchanting light of turquoise fires, previously seen by Isaac only in science fiction.

He expected space to change him.

Taking another step, Isaac headed towards the unknown, leaving behind his trusty TC-2542.

— Centuries later.. —

[...]

The miraculously preserved body in the spacesuit was found on the newly colonized territories of the young planet Violaceum.

During the investigation, it was established that death was caused by prolonged hunger, which, notably, lasted for centuries by earthly standards.

This extraordinary discovery was written in history as the first case of a human landing on a planet outside the Milky Way, also granting the Soviet Union the title of the first state within the Solar System, paving the way for expansions to distant planets.

[...]

On the planet Violaceum, an unwavering monument still stands amidst the tumultuous winds.

It has been here since the beginning of time.

[masterxuanshen]

Niche Make Money Online: The Ultimate Guide to Building a Profitable Digital Income Stream

In today's digitally driven world, the concept of earning income from the comfort of your home is no longer a dream—it's a rapidly growing reality. With access to the internet and the right skills, anyone can create a steady stream of income online. But to stand out in a saturated market, it's essential to find your niche make money online strategy—your unique angle or area of focus that not only fits your passion but also offers real income potential.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about identifying your niche, building a profitable platform, and mastering the art of making money online in 2025 and beyond.

Table of Contents What Is a Niche?

Why a Niche Is Critical for Online Success

Choosing the Right Niche to Make Money Online

High-Demand Niche Categories That Make Money

Validating Your Niche: Is It Profitable?

Building Your Online Presence

Top 10 Ways to Monetize a Niche

Tools You Need to Succeed

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Real-Life Examples of Niche Success Stories

Scaling Your Niche Business

Final Thoughts

What Is a Niche? A niche is a specific segment of a broader market that addresses a particular need, interest, or problem. In the context of niche make money online, it refers to a focused topic or audience you serve with content, products, or services online.

Examples include:

Vegan skincare for women over 40

Productivity hacks for remote freelancers

Minimalist living for small apartment dwellers

Home workouts for busy moms

By narrowing your focus, you attract a more dedicated audience, face less competition, and position yourself as an authority in your area.

Why a Niche Is Critical for Online Success Many beginners try to target broad markets like “fitness” or “technology.” The problem? These markets are crowded and hard to rank in, especially for newcomers.

Here’s why going niche is better:

Less competition: You’ll rank faster on Google and YouTube.

Better engagement: Your audience feels like you’re speaking directly to them.

Higher conversions: Targeted messaging leads to more sales or clicks.

Personal branding: You become the go-to expert in a specific domain.

In short, a niche make money online approach helps you stand out, build trust, and generate consistent income.

Choosing the Right Niche to Make Money Online Finding your ideal niche involves a blend of passion, knowledge, demand, and profitability. Use the following framework:

a. Passion and Expertise Ask yourself:

What topics could I talk about for hours?

What problems have I solved that others struggle with?

What experience or training do I have?

b. Market Demand Check platforms like Google Trends, Ubersuggest, and Reddit to see what people are searching for and discussing.

c. Monetization Potential Look for:

Affiliate programs

Ad revenue options

Courses or ebooks people are already selling

Freelance services in demand

d. Competition Check Use SEO tools to analyze competitors. Too little competition might mean no demand. Too much competition may make ranking difficult. Aim for a middle ground.

High-Demand Niche Categories That Make Money Below are top niche make money online categories thriving in 2025:

Personal Finance Budgeting tips for millennials

Passive income strategies

Cryptocurrency for beginners

Health and Wellness Intermittent fasting for women

Mental health strategies for remote workers

Natural remedies for anxiety

Career and Business Freelancing for graphic designers

Resume tips for tech jobs

How to build an Etsy store

Technology and Gaming AI tools for creators

Mobile gaming hacks

Productivity apps reviews

Education and Learning Online courses for coding

Language learning for travelers

Exam prep guides (e.g., IELTS, GRE)

Each of these areas has hundreds of sub-niches, perfect for building a niche make money online brand.

Validating Your Niche: Is It Profitable? Before committing, validate your niche using these methods:

Search Engine Trends Use tools like Google Trends to see if your niche is gaining popularity.

Keyword Research Use tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or free options like Ubersuggest to check:

Search volume

Competition level

Related terms

Audience Interest Browse Reddit, Quora, Facebook Groups, and forums. Are people asking questions? Are influencers in the space thriving?

Monetization Clues Are there:

Amazon products related to your niche?

Affiliate links?

Courses?

Sponsored blog posts?

If yes, your niche make money online idea is likely viable.

Building Your Online Presence To turn your niche into income, you need visibility. Here’s how to get started:

a. Launch a Blog WordPress or Webflow blogs let you share SEO-optimized content. This builds traffic and authority.

b. Start a YouTube Channel Videos convert well. Create tutorials, reviews, or lifestyle content tied to your niche.

c. Build an Email List Offer a free ebook or checklist to gather subscribers. Email is gold for long-term monetization.

d. Use Social Media Wisely Pick 1–2 platforms (e.g., Instagram for lifestyle, Twitter for tech) and post valuable niche content regularly.

Top 10 Ways to Monetize a Niche Here’s where the magic happens. You can make money online in your niche through:

Affiliate Marketing Promote other people’s products and earn commissions. Amazon, ShareASale, and Impact are great starting points.

Sponsored Content Once you have an audience, brands will pay you to feature their products.

Selling Digital Products Ebooks, templates, meal plans, or coaching guides tailored to your niche.

Online Courses Teach what you know. Platforms like Teachable or Gumroad make it easy.

Dropshipping Set up a niche-focused Shopify store without holding inventory.

Freelance Services Offer writing, design, SEO, or coaching services related to your niche.

Ad Revenue From Google AdSense on blogs to YouTube Partner Program for videos.

Membership Sites Charge monthly fees for exclusive content, forums, or resources.

Print-on-Demand Sell niche-themed merch through Redbubble or Printful.

Webinars and Consulting Host live sessions or provide 1-on-1 strategy calls.

Tools You Need to Succeed Running a niche make money online business requires tools. Here are essentials:

Domain + Hosting: Bluehost, SiteGround, or Namecheap

Email Marketing: ConvertKit, MailerLite, or Mailchimp

Design: Canva, Figma, or Adobe Express

Keyword Research: Ubersuggest, Ahrefs, or KeySearch

Course Platforms: Teachable, Thinkific, or Podia

E-commerce: Shopify, WooCommerce

Analytics: Google Analytics, Hotjar

These tools streamline operations and boost professionalism.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them Every journey has obstacles. Here’s how to tackle common ones:

Slow Growth It takes months to gain traction. Be patient and consistent.

Lack of Motivation Set small goals. Celebrate wins. Join entrepreneur communities.

Tech Overwhelm Start simple. Use no-code tools. Learn as you go.

Imposter Syndrome Remember: you don’t need to be perfect, just helpful.

Real-Life Examples of Niche Success Stories a. Michelle Schroeder-Gardner – Making Sense of Cents Niche: Personal finance and travel Earnings: Over $100,000/month Method: Blogging + affiliate marketing

b. Ali Abdaal – Productivity for Creators Niche: Productivity, tech, and study Earnings: $4 million/year Method: YouTube + online courses + affiliates

c. Adam Enfroy – Blog Growth Engine Niche: Blogging and online business Earnings: $300,000/month Method: SEO + email list + premium coaching

These examples prove that the niche make money online model works with focus and strategy.

Scaling Your Niche Business Once you’re earning, scale up:

a. Hire Freelancers Outsource content writing, design, or admin work.

b. Automate Processes Use tools like Zapier, AI writing assistants, and CRM software.

c. Diversify Income Streams Add coaching, products, or new platforms.

d. Collaborate Partner with other creators for guest posts, shoutouts, or joint offers.

Scaling means working on your business, not in it.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Niche Make Money Online The digital economy is booming, and the opportunity to earn from a niche make money online has never been greater. Whether you're into plant-based nutrition, vintage watches, digital nomad life, or AI tutorials, there's a profitable path waiting for you.

Success takes time, but with the right niche, persistence, and smart monetization, your online income dreams can become a reality.

[ratinasuitproductions]

#005: Oh shit it's the end of the month already!

The end of the month has sneaked up on me, and I almost forgot to write this. But by good fortune, I remembered just in time. So now you get my mangled, rushed words as I write this in the only free hour I have today. 

What have I been creating?

I started the month by refreshing all my branding and making this suited rat my new profile picture!

I also updated my Patreon and itch.io pages and revamped all my pinned posts across social media. Oh, I also set up a Bluesky account for myself, so follow me on there to hear about what I have crafted. 

I also released a couple of TTRPG-related projects:

Uprising: A microsetting that fits on a single playing card. The setting is about revolution and was made for the Tiny Library Jam 6.

Ice, Snow, and the Quest for Salvation: A solo journaling TTRPG made for the Minimalist TTRPG Jam 3. It is about a perilous trek across a frozen tundra in the hope of saving your crew. Writing it was a blast, and I am considering doing a play-through of it next week and publishing the results. I think also once the jam is done I will give the TTPRG a fancy layout. 

What have I been consuming?

So this month I have watched a bunch of the YouTube channel Mystery Quest, which has been nice. If you're looking for some actual play content, then I highly recommend it. I have also started playing Songs of Syx, which is going well ... though I suspect the city I am building is about to collapse in beautiful fashion. 

On the TTRPG front, I finished my Spire campaign. It ended with a pair of lovers fleeing the city, multiple cults being found, and a whole bunch of blood on the streets.

What is to come? 

I have a pair of game jams on my radar for next month. 

Tabletop Train Jam: I’m considering writing a supplement for The Trains of the Glorious Republics of the People. For this one maybe a set of rules for running a prolonged campaign in the system.

Winter Horrorland TTRPG Jam 2024: I’m planning to release a second edition of Land of the Mist at some point over the next few months. Though that will be a bigger project for the jam, I think I will just create a quickstart guide featuring an adventure set in 1790s Finland.

What to conclude?

So last month has been manic, and with Christmas and those upcoming jams, I don’t expect things to slow down anytime soon. Wish me luck, and I will write again next month.

[teine-mallaichte]

Day 17 @augusnippets - alt promp : protective caretaking

A few days after being seriously injured 84 is back training, 83 sees and feels compelled to intervene.

Asset 84 masterlist

It had been just a few days since Alex had shielded Sam from an onslaught of gunfire, sustaining severe injuries in the process. Sam had managed to carry Alex to the extraction point, and for the past several days, Alex had been under intensive care in the facility's medical wing. Today marked their release from medical care, a step towards recovery that Sam hoped Alex would use wisely.

As Sam walked past the training yard on their way to another task, they were taken aback by the sight of Alex among the other assets. Sam’s heart sank at the sight. Alex was participating in the training exercises, but the image was jarring.

Every movement Alex made was marked by visible effort. Their usually fluid, confident motions had become labored and clumsy. Each step seemed to send ripples of discomfort across their face, and their grimaces of pain were more frequent than usual. The harsh drills, which should have been routine and almost automatic for someone of Alex’s caliber, appeared to be exacerbating their injuries rather than simply testing their skills.

Sam hesitated, grappling with the decision to intervene. Protocol was clear: disrupting a training exercise was against the rules, and Sam's handler was known for their strict adherence to regulations - unlike Sams handler who had a relatively hands off approach.

As Sam neared the training area, they noticed Alex falter, nearly collapsing from the exertion. The sight of Alex's weakened state spurred Sam into action.

"Sergeant," Sam said, their tone firm but controlled.

The sergeant, a grizzled veteran accustomed to the demands of the training yard, turned with a mixture of surprise and irritation. "What is it, 83? The odd numbers are not training until this afternoon."

Sam met the sergeant’s gaze with unwavering resolve. “I’ve been instructed to collect Asset 84 for a briefing, Sir.”

The sergeant’s eyebrows arched in surprise at the authoritative tone in Sam’s voice. “Who instructed you?”

“I was given direct orders by Sergeant Jackson,” Sam replied, maintaining their firm stance. The chance of anyone actually checking seemed low, and in this case worth the risk - they had to get Alex away from the training session.

The sergeant scrutinized Sam for a moment, eyes narrowing. The sergeant then nodded begrudgingly, clearly annoyed but unwilling to challenge the supposed orders. "Fine. Take 84 and go."

Sam wasted no time. They moved quickly to Alex, who was struggling to maintain their balance. The sight of Alex in such a weakened state stirred a deep well of concern within Sam.

"Come on, Alex," Sam said softly, curving that the sargeants focus was elsewhere before slipping an arm around Alex's waist to support them. "Let's get you out of here."

Alex leaned heavily on Sam, the relief in their eyes unmistakable. Every step away from the training yard was a step closer to reprieve from the grueling exercises that had pushed their already battered body to its limits.

"You will get in trouble for this," Alex whispered, but made not effort to pull away.

Sam shook their head gently, tightening their grip around Alex's waist as they guided them away from the training yard. "You’re worth the trouble, Alex," Sam replied quietly.

Alex’s steps grew more uneven, and they leaned heavily on Sam, “Where are we going?” the whispered.

Sam hesitated, they hadn't thought this far ahead. The medical wing would be the most logical place, but the staff there would almost definitely alert Colonel Carter. Alexs quarters were an option, but Carter had a live monitor of Alexs quarters in her office.

"My quarters," Sam finally replied, assets entering each others quarters was discouraged but not actively against the rules.

All assets quarters looked identical - gray walls, gray tiled floor, and the minimalist furnishings. Sam helped Alex over to the cot, easing them down.

"I need to make sure you haven’t torn any stitches," Sam said, their voice steady but gentle as they crouched beside Alex.

Alex winced slightly with each touch, but their eyes remained closed, trusting Sam despite the pain. Sam carefully examined Alex’s wounds, their hands gentle despite the urgency of the situation. The lighting was harsh but necessary for a thorough check. Alex winced and grunted with each touch, but their eyes remained closed, focusing on Sam’s presence rather than the pain.

"You’re doing great, Alex. Just a few more checks," Sam said softly, their voice imbued with a tenderness that Alex rarely heard from anyone other than Sam.

Alex managed a faint smile through the pain, "I would have been fine with a few more hours of training."

Sam looked up, and shook their head, "You should not be the main person that I need to protect you from," they teased.

[jademickian]

tag game tuesday (it is a saturday for me LMAO but hey, free will) tagged by @creepkinginc, @mybrainismelted, @mickeysgaymom, @transmickey, @juliakayyy, @lingy910y, and @lupeloto, thanks friends ✨

name: jade 🦄

age: (waves at @lupeloto)

favorite season: summer (used to be rainy season! but it gets too troublesome)

movies or tv shows? you can't make me pick (i watch more movies though!)

do you carry a bag/purse? what kind? a sling bag! (backpack for uni, however)

what color is your water bottle? baby blue 💙

what color is your phone case? black with pretty landscape art that's mostly purple

do you sleep in silence or do you need white noise/sounds/music? silence, but i don't mind some occasional meowing and barking from neighborhood cats and dogs

top sheets: yes or no? if the question is "do you know what a top sheet is?", it would be a no

you’re in the candy aisle at the corner store, what are you grabbing? kitkats

preferred mode of travel (plane/train/car/bus/on foot/etc?): i can't drive because i'm gay, so woohoo for public transportation!

what’s your phone background right now? my class schedule (which is, i think, inhumane)

are you more of a minimalist or a maximalist? minimalist in a broke college student way (but i totally love personalizing my space)

it’s time to paint your bedroom! what color are you choosing? white!

and finally, tell me something that brings you joy: my friends, both in real life and online<3

andd get to know me, tagged by @deathclassic and @lupeloto!! thanks for sparing me some thought<3

favorite color: blue 💙

currently reading: frankenstein, hani and ishu's guide to fake dating, random gallavich fics

last song: asian kung-fu generation's haruka kanata

last series: heartstopper s2!

last movie: world war z (a rewatch with my mom)

currently working on: i have a WIP going on which i'm not sure i'll ever publish

felt like everyone's already done this, so if you haven't yet, feel free to tag yourself!

[th3dailyoverload]

Navigating Career Exploration and Development

The journey of career exploration and development can be both exciting and daunting. From choosing a career path that aligns with your passions to climbing the corporate ladder, there are numerous challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I recently started a new position and thought this would be something cool to blog about, let's delve in, maybe I can share a trick or two that I have learned.

Embrace Your Ambitions and Passions

As a young adult, it's crucial to embrace your ambitions and passions when embarking on your career journey. Don't be afraid to dream big and pursue goals that truly resonate with you, just don't reach too high and get greatly disappointed. Whether it's climbing the corporate ladder, starting your own business, or making a difference in your community, let your passions be your guiding light as you navigate your career path. My most practical example is how I had always told myself that I'd probably go into accounting, it was too obvious because I loved the subject, as a career but my passion for publishing and graphic design lead me to study publishing and here I am 4 years down the line working in the field, scheduling my own times and still doing further education. I wouldn't have been here if I stuck to the ambitions forced on me by my parents, follow your own aspirations and passions because at the end of the day your parents won't be there when you have to go into the office for a 09h00 to 17h00.

Seek Mentorship and Guidance

One of the most valuable assets in navigating career exploration and development is mentorship. Seek out successful individuals in your field who can offer guidance, support, and advice as you make your way into adulthood. A mentor can provide valuable insights, help you navigate challenges, and offer a fresh perspective on your career goals, and even potentially get you special opportunities that you wouldn't have any other way else. I never understood the importance of a mentor until I had one, try it out. You're bound to learn something new or if not at leats you've started networking.

Invest in Your Professional Development

Investing in your professional development is key to advancing in your career as a young adult. Take advantage of training programs, LinkedIn Learning offers a lot of free courses that also add certificates and achievements onto your LinkedIn profile, workshops, seminars, and networking events to enhance your skills, expand your knowledge, stay ahead of the curve in your industry and potentially meet future employers. Continuous learning and growth are essential for success in today's fast-paced world, what you needed to know yesterday is not what you need to know today.

Build a Strong Personal Brand

As a young adult entering the workforce, building a strong personal brand can set you apart from the competition and boost your career prospects. Invest time in crafting a polished resume, optimising your LinkedIn profile, and showcasing your skills and accomplishments in a professional manner. This is the most fun part about entering the career world, you get a fresh new slate and you can decide to be perceived in any way that you wish to be, for me I went for the personal brand that I'd always seen myself as which was professional, minimalistic, tech-efficient and graphically inclined. Your personal brand is a reflection of who you are, how you want to be perceived and what you bring to the table— so make it what you want!

Network, Network, Network

Networking is a powerful tool for career exploration and development as a young adult. Make an effort to expand your professional network, connect with like-minded individuals, and build meaningful relationships that can open doors to new opportunities. This can be by simply connecting with everyone in your publishing module class on LInkedIn if you're planning to potentially go into the field professionally. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and leverage social media to network with influencers and thought leaders in your field. And more especially, DO NOT BURN ANY BRIDGES. Specifically for me, the publishing field is the size of a private company's offices and that's for the nation, meaning you probably interacted with everyone at least once in your life so you'll have to be nice and professional with everyone because you might end up working with them at some point.

Embrace Challenges and Take Risks

As you navigate the ups and downs of career exploration and development, don't be afraid to embrace challenges and take risks along the way. Stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and taking calculated risks can lead to growth, learning, and new opportunities for personal and professional development. Embrace uncertainty as a chance to learn and grow stronger. In conclusion, career exploration and development as a young adult can be a transformative and empowering journey.

Rejection is not Permanent

If I had a R10 for every time I was rejected by a potential employer, I'd be able to take a solo trip to Cape Town. Job rejection can be disheartening and lead to feelings of frustration and disappointment. It's important to remember that rejection is not permanent and does not define your worth or capabilities. Instead of dwelling on the rejection, use it as an opportunity for growth and self-reflection. Take the time to assess your strengths and areas for improvement, seek feedback from the employer if possible, and use the experience to refine your job search strategies. Remember that rejection is a natural part of the job search process and that each rejection brings you one step closer to finding the right opportunity that aligns with your skills, goals and passions. Stay resilient, maintain a positive mindset, and believe in your abilities – the right job is out there waiting for you.

Remember, the sky's the limit for when entering the workforce, so dream big, work hard, and never stop striving for your career goals. Good luck on your journey ahead!