#next js engineers

[askgaloredigital]

Hiring Top Next.js Developers: A Comprehensive Guide

 Discover the best practices for hiring Next.js developers. In this guide from AskGalore, we cover the importance of Next js and roles, skills and assessment of Next.js developers.

[incerro]

Incerro Partners with Sanity to Accelerate Scalable Digital Solution Development

Introduction Incerro, a leading front-end agency and digital solution developer, is thrilled to announce its strategic partnership with Sanity, the modern headless CMS platform. Together, we are poised to redefine digital experiences. https://www.incerro.ai/insights/incerro-partners-with-sanity

[hereforuconnwbb]

Unexpected Halt - CHAPTER SIX

paige x azzi (pazzi)

au fic!

~paige plays for uconn and azzi plays for stanford~

word count: 7.1k

warning: language

hey guys sorry for the wait just been caught up with some stuff along with having mind blanks while writing this chapter 😃 i feel like this chapter is js all over the place... but hopefully yall enjoy it 🤞🏽

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Azzi sat in her car, hands still resting on the steering wheel even though the engine was off. The airport lights glowed dimly outside, casting soft reflections on the windshield, but all she could focus on was the emptiness settling in her chest now that Paige was gone. She exhaled, her fingers tightening slightly around the wheel before she leaned back against the headrest. It felt weird, sitting here alone after spending the last couple of days wrapped up in Paige—both literally and figuratively.

Her phone buzzed in the cup holder, pulling her out of her thoughts.

Paige: just boarded, baby. i’ll text when i land 😘

Azzi bit her lip, warmth flooding her chest at the casual way Paige called her that. It still felt new, but she liked it—loved it, actually.

Azzi: okay, have a safe flight 💗 miss u already 🫂

She stared at the screen for a moment longer, rereading Paige’s message before sighing softly and setting her phone aside. She needed to get back to the dorm, but she wasn’t quite ready to leave just yet. Instead, she closed her eyes, letting the lingering traces of Paige—her warmth, her scent, the way her arms had felt around her just minutes ago—wash over her one more time before she forced herself to start the car.

—------------

Azzi drove back to the dorm, her thoughts swirling around the same familiar feeling of emptiness that followed Paige’s departure. She couldn’t help but feel a little down as the distance between them grew with every mile. It wasn’t like she hadn’t prepared for this moment��Paige had to go back to Storrs, and their time together, however perfect, was always going to be short-lived. Still, it didn’t make it any easier.

When Azzi finally parked and walked into the dorm, she sighed, kicking off her shoes and leaning back against the door. The whole place felt quieter now, emptier without Paige’s presence filling the space.

Caroline, who had been sitting at the kitchen counter with her laptop, glanced up from her screen as Azzi shuffled in, the sadness on her face immediately apparent.

“You okay?” Caroline asked, her voice soft but knowing.

Azzi didn’t bother hiding it—she was exhausted, emotionally drained. “Yeah, just… it’s just weird, you know? Being here without her.” She dropped her bag on the couch and sank down next to it, resting her head in her hands for a moment before looking up at Caroline.

Caroline nodded, getting up and coming to sit beside her. “Yeah, I get it. Long-distance stuff is tough. But hey, you two have something real, right? You’ll make it work, I promise. It’s just a little rough right now, but it’s not forever.”

Azzi tried to muster a smile, but it felt forced. “I hope so. It’s just… I miss her already.”

“Of course you do.” Caroline gently nudged her. “But, hey, you’ve got a piece of her still, right?” She gestured to the hoodie that Azzi was wearing, a small smirk tugging at her lips.

Azzi looked down at the hoodie, a soft blush creeping onto her cheeks. She hadn’t realized until now that she was still wearing it—Paige’s hoodie, the one she’d insisted Azzi keep. “It’s not the same,” Azzi mumbled, but even as she said it, she felt a comfort in the fabric, like it still carried a piece of Paige’s warmth.

Caroline laughed, but it was light-hearted and teasing, meant to lift Azzi’s spirits. “I’m just saying… you’re basically wearing her, so there’s that. If I were you, I’d take advantage of that. It’s practically a hug every time you wear it.”

Azzi couldn’t help but chuckle at that. It wasn’t the same as being with Paige, but it did make her feel a little less alone. She stretched her arms out, letting herself fall back onto the couch. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.”

Caroline plopped down beside her, leaning back and turning her gaze toward the ceiling. “I’m not saying I told you so, but… you two are adorable. Don’t worry about the distance. It’ll be hard, but you’ve got this.”

Azzi smiled, feeling a little lighter. Caroline always knew how to make her feel better. But still, she couldn’t shake the longing she felt for Paige. It would be hard, but as Caroline said, it wasn’t forever. And for now, she had the hoodie, the memories, and a relationship that was only just beginning.

“I’ll survive,” Azzi said, finally feeling a bit more at peace with the situation. “But yeah… this whole long-distance thing? Not my favorite.”

Caroline gave her a soft smile. “We’ll get through it together. And who knows—maybe it’ll make the times you do get together even more special.”

Azzi nodded, her thoughts already drifting back to Paige and their last moments together. She couldn’t wait to see her again, no matter how hard it would be. And with that, she felt a bit of hope return. Maybe it would be tough, but they could make it work.

She sat in silence for a moment, letting the quiet settle around them. Her mind wandered back to the memories of the past couple of days, and she found herself smiling softly. Despite the distance, despite the goodbye, she knew what she had with Paige was real. And that thought, however comforting, didn’t completely erase the ache of missing her.

Caroline, noticing the change in her expression, nudged her again. “You’re still thinking about her, huh?”

Azzi nodded slowly, not even bothering to deny it. “Yeah… I just can’t help it. I don’t know how I’m supposed to go back to normal now, you know? It feels like something’s missing.”

Caroline let out a breath and leaned back into the couch, her hands tucked behind her head. “I get it. But you’ll find your balance again. You’ll get through this.”

Azzi looked over at her friend and smiled a little, grateful for her comfort. “Thanks, Carol. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Caroline smirked, her eyes narrowing playfully. “Probably mope around here being all sad and dramatic, just like you’re doing now.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but laughed, appreciating Caroline’s lighthearted teasing. “Shut up. I’m not that bad.”

“Please,” Caroline grinned, “we both know you are.”

Azzi tried to shove her but ended up laughing even harder. “You’re impossible.”

But as the laughter died down, the room seemed to settle into a comfortable silence once more. Azzi’s eyes drifted to the window, where the faint lights of the campus outside flickered in the night. She could still feel the pull of Paige, even though she wasn’t physically there. And it was strange—she didn’t know how she’d gotten so attached to someone so quickly. But it was more than that. There was something about Paige that felt different, like they fit together in a way Azzi hadn’t known she needed.

“You know,” Caroline said, breaking the silence, “you could text her, you know? It’s late, but it might help, just a quick ‘good night’ or something.”

Azzi hesitated, her fingers hovering over her phone, but she still wasn’t sure. She wasn’t sure how to make the distance feel smaller or how to make the longing go away. But Caroline was right—it couldn’t hurt.

She unlocked her phone and began typing.

Azzi: hey, just wanted to say goodnight. Hope you’re getting some sleep in. I’m thinking about you 💗

She read it over a few times, her heart fluttering at the thought of Paige reading her message. After a brief pause, she pressed send.

Azzi let out a breath, feeling a little lighter, and dropped her phone onto the couch beside her.

Caroline glanced over, a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. “There you go. Now you just have to wait for the ‘goodnight’ back, and it’ll make everything feel a little less far away.”

Azzi nodded, lying back and closing her eyes. “Yeah, maybe it’ll make the distance feel a little smaller.”

“I’m telling you,” Caroline said with a grin, “you’re already on your way to being a pro at this long-distance stuff.”

Azzi chuckled softly but didn’t respond. She was still thinking about Paige, even as she tried to relax. The wait for a reply felt like it stretched on forever. But the thought of Paige’s response kept a smile on her face as she settled back into the couch. Maybe it wasn’t perfect yet, but they were figuring it out together. And that was enough.

After a few minutes, her phone buzzed. Azzi sat up, quickly grabbing it and reading Paige’s message.

Paige: goodnight, beautiful. sweet dreams, i’ll be thinking about you too. sleep tight 💗

Azzi’s heart fluttered at the message, the words comforting her in a way she didn’t expect. She replied almost immediately.

Azzi: sweet dreams, babe. talk to you soon.

She set her phone back down, her heart warm. Caroline smiled knowingly from the other side of the room. “See? You’ve already got it handled.”

Azzi just smiled softly, feeling the ache of missing Paige still there, but somehow a little less heavy. As she leaned back into the couch and closed her eyes, she let herself hold onto that last text—those words, that feeling of Paige thinking about her too. It was enough for now.

—------------

Paige sat back in her seat as the plane began its descent, her stomach fluttering slightly. It had been a quiet flight back to Storrs, the hum of the engines filling her ears, but her thoughts were a million miles away, back in California with Azzi. Even though they hadn’t said it aloud, she could feel the weight of their connection, and it lingered with her through the entire flight. As the plane touched down, her mind wandered back to the moments they shared—the warmth of Azzi’s smile, the way her arms had held her so tightly, and the soft kisses they’d exchanged. Paige felt the ache of missing her already, even though it had only been a few hours.

She pulled out her phone as soon as she got off the plane, fingers hovering over the screen. She wanted to message Azzi, just to hear from her, but the text felt too formal. Instead, she sent a quick, more casual message, hoping to hear from her soon.

Paige: hey baby i just landed in storrs. was a long flight, but ill message you again when i get to the dorm, hope you’re getting some rest

She smiled at the message before slipping her phone back into her pocket. Paige then grabbed her luggage and made her way outside to catch an Uber back to campus. The cold air hit her as soon as she stepped outside, and she pulled her jacket tighter around her, glad to be back in familiar surroundings. As she climbed into the car, she couldn’t help but think about Azzi again. It was strange—she’d only been gone for a short time, but it already felt like too long.

—------------

The drive back to campus was short, but Paige couldn’t help but replay the last few hours in California. She had never imagined feeling so connected to someone so quickly. The trip had been perfect, despite the bittersweet goodbye at the airport, and now, even though they were apart, Paige felt closer to Azzi than ever.

As the Uber pulled up to the dorm, Paige thanked the driver and grabbed her bags, heading inside. She pulled out her phone to check for any messages from Azzi, but saw that her last message had been sent hours ago. She hadn’t heard back from her, which made sense since it was still early in California. Azzi was probably still asleep.

Paige smiled to herself as she walked into her room, setting her things down by the door. She took a deep breath, feeling the exhaustion of the flight settle in, but the moment she stepped into the room, the emptiness hit her. She missed Azzi already.

With a sigh, she collapsed onto her bed, picking up her phone again to send a quick follow-up text, hoping to hear from Azzi soon.

Paige: finally back at my dorm and just dived into bed 😂but yeah im missing u like crazy already princess… 

She hit send and placed the phone on the nightstand. Paige lay back, staring up at the ceiling, her mind still on Azzi. It was strange being back here without her, and even though she had only just left, Paige was already counting down the days until they could see each other again.

—------------

Paige had decided to get up to try to finish unpacking her bag when she heard a knock at her door. She turned, already knowing who it was before she even opened it. Sure enough, KK was standing there, looking smug as ever.

“Look who finally decided to come home,” KK teased, stepping inside without waiting for an invite.

Paige rolled her eyes but grinned. “Yeah, yeah. I made it back in one piece.”

KK plopped down on Paige’s bed, stretching out like she owned the place. “So, how was Cali?” she asked, her tone casual but laced with curiosity.

Before Paige could answer, the door opened again, and a familiar voice rang out.

“Did I hear something about Cali?”

Paige’s head snapped toward the door, and the second she saw who it was, her face lit up. “Ice!”

Ice Brady stood there with a duffel bag slung over her shoulder, looking relaxed but slightly tired from travel. Paige didn’t hesitate to cross the room and pull her into a quick hug.

“Finally back, huh?” Paige grinned, stepping back. “It’s been way too long.”

Ice smiled. “I know. Rehab back home took longer than I thought, but I’m all good now. Been itching to get back.” She looked between Paige and KK. “So, what’s this about Cali? You were there?”

Paige scratched the back of her head. “Uh, yeah, just for a few days.”

Ice raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. “And you didn’t tell me? You know I was in Cali too, right? We could’ve linked up.”

KK smirked, leaning forward like she was waiting for this moment. “Oh, trust me, Ice—she had company.”

Paige shot KK a glare. “Not like that,” she muttered quickly, but it was too late. Ice’s interest was already piqued.

Ice’s smirk grew as she looked back at Paige. “Ohhh? Who was the lucky company?”

KK didn’t even hesitate. “Azzi.”

Ice blinked, then laughed like she didn’t believe it. “THE Azzi Fudd?” She stared at Paige like she had grown another head. “Stanford’s Azzi? One of the greats?”

Paige groaned, knowing exactly where this was going. “Can we not—”

“No, no, no,” Ice interrupted, her grin growing. “This is crazy. How did I not know about this? You and Azzi are a thing?”

“We’re not a thing,” Paige insisted, sitting down on the edge of her bed.

KK scoffed. “Yeah, okay. You should’ve seen her, Ice. So whipped,” she said dramatically, nudging Ice. “They were together the entire time. And the way Paige talks about her? It’s insane.”

Paige groaned again. “We’re just friends.”

KK’s smirk widened as something clicked in her memory. She glanced at Paige’s neck and then snapped her fingers. “Hold up.” She turned to Ice, eyes shining with mischief. “You know what I just remembered?”

Paige stiffened. “KK, don’t—”

“Those marks,” KK said smugly. “I saw them clear as day when we Facetimed while you and Azzi were having breakfast.”

Ice’s jaw dropped. “Oh, no way.” She looked between KK and Paige, her smirk matching KK’s now. “Paige. Paige. Tell me right now. What kind of rizz do you even have?”

“I didn’t—” Paige started, but KK cut her off again, laughing.

“Azzi stayed the night before that morning I called, by the way,” KK added, throwing a knowing look at Ice. “So if we connect the dots here…”

Ice and KK exchanged glances before turning back to Paige, both waiting for an explanation.

Paige, beyond flustered, ran a hand down her face. “Y’all are literally the worst people I know,” she muttered.

—----

KK and Ice burst into laughter, clearly having the time of their lives at Paige’s expense. Paige tried her best to ignore them, but her phone buzzed, catching her attention. She quickly reached for it, already feeling a rush of warmth in her chest as she saw Azzi’s name pop up.

Azzi: sorry P i knocked out after i last messaged u but its good to hear you arrived safely and im missing u like crazy too 💗

A soft smile tugged at Paige’s lips as she quickly typed back, her fingers dancing over the screen.

Paige: nah u good Az. u sleep well? 

She couldn’t help the small, giddy feeling that bubbled up inside her as she hit send. As she waited for Azzi’s reply, she unconsciously leaned back into the couch, her heart fluttering a little at the thought of the messages.

Just as Paige began to zone out, her phone buzzed once again.

Azzi: i did but wish i woke up next to u instead ☹️

The words hit Paige like a warm wave. She let out a quiet sigh, grinning like a lovesick fool as she typed her reply.

Paige: aww princess, me too… i miss you and your kisses 😔

Paige was lost in the moment, so she didn’t notice KK and Ice smirking knowingly at each other. Their teasing glances shared a silent agreement as they leaned in, straining to get a look at Paige’s phone.

“Princess?” KK said in a teasing voice, loud enough for Paige to hear. “Would you call me princess? Sounds a bit couple-y to me.”

Paige’s eyes widened, her cheeks flushing as she quickly locked her phone, trying to hide her embarrassment.

Ice chuckled, shaking her head. “So you miss her kisses, huh? I didn’t know people who were ‘just friends’ kiss,” she teased, her voice dripping with mock innocence.

The teasing didn’t stop there. KK stood up dramatically, putting her hands on her hips as she broke into a sing-song voice. “Paige and Azzi, sitting in a tree… K-I-S-S-I-N-G!”

Paige groaned, sinking deeper into the couch, desperately trying to act nonchalant, though she could feel the heat creeping up her neck.

“Stop! We’re just friends!” she muttered, but it was clear from her flushed face that she wasn’t fooling anyone.

Ice and KK exchanged amused looks, clearly not buying it for a second. “Sure, Paige,” Ice said with a wink. “Just friends.”

“Tell us more about this ‘friendship’ you have with princess,” KK teased, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Paige just groaned, burying her face in her hands, as the teasing continued. She knew she couldn’t hide it forever, but for now, she wasn’t quite ready to let anyone in on the secret just yet.

KK and Ice weren’t letting up anytime soon. They were having way too much fun watching Paige squirm.

“So, let’s get this straight,” Ice started, crossing her arms with a smug grin. “You call her princess, you miss her kisses, and yet… you’re just friends?”

KK scoffed, shaking her head. “Paige, come on, at least try to make the lie believable.”

Paige groaned again, dragging a hand down her face. “Can y’all shut up?” she mumbled, refusing to look either of them in the eye.

KK smirked. “We could, but where’s the fun in that?”

Ice leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. “I just gotta ask—how did you bag Azzi? THE Azzi Fudd?”

Paige scoffed. “I didn’t ‘bag’ anything. There’s nothing to—”

“Mhm,” Ice interrupted, unconvinced. “Right. You just, what? Accidentally tripped and landed on her lips?”

KK gasped dramatically. “Wait, Ice, don’t you remember? Friends kiss all the time. It’s totally normal.”

“Oh yeah, totally,” Ice played along. “I always kiss my ‘just friends’ and call them princess.”

Paige shot them both a glare. “Y’all are so annoying.”

KK just smirked. “And you’re so whipped.”

Before Paige could argue, her phone buzzed again. She glanced down, instantly softening as she saw Azzi’s name.

AZZI

ur so cute 🥹 wish i was there with u right now

Paige bit her lip, trying to suppress the giddy smile threatening to break free.

PAIGE

ugh stop ur making me all soft 🙄 i wish u were too, princess 💗

Just as she hit send, she realized KK and Ice had leaned over again, trying to peek at her phone.

“Uh-uh!” Paige yanked her phone away, clutching it to her chest as the two burst out laughing.

KK shook her head. “Oh yeah. She’s gone.”

“I’ve never seen her like this,” Ice said with a smirk. “This is history in the making.”

Paige rolled her eyes, standing up before they could tease her any further. “I’m done with y’all.”

But she couldn’t stop the warmth in her chest, the way her heart fluttered just thinking about Azzi. Yeah… she was whipped.

She could feel her face getting hot from all the teasing, and she was honestly over it.

“Okay, okay,” she said, trying to sound firm, but the giggle escaping her only gave her away. “You guys need to leave. I have, uh, stuff to do.”

Ice raised an eyebrow. “Stuff?” she teased, drawing out the word with a knowing smile. “Like texting your princess?”

KK snickered, giving Paige a playful shove. “Yeah, babe, you go do your thing. You know, the one where you’re sending hearts and ‘miss you’ messages.”

“Baby,” Ice added, winking exaggeratedly. “I’m sure your baby can’t wait for you to text her back. We wouldn’t want to keep you from that.”

Paige, already turning bright red, pointed to the door, her voice slightly muffled as she tried to keep her composure. “Get out, you two. You’ve ruined my whole vibe now.”

KK smirked, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “Oh, we’ve ruined your vibe? Really? That’s a shame, babe.” She threw a dramatic wink at Paige as she walked toward the door.

Ice followed, still grinning. “Don’t forget to tell princess I said hi, baby.”

Paige groaned, covering her face in embarrassment. “I hate you both.”

But despite her words, she couldn’t suppress the smile tugging at the corners of her lips. The teasing, though relentless, was kind of endearing in its own way. She just hoped Azzi didn’t find out about this conversation.

Once Ice and KK had finally left, Paige collapsed back onto her bed, letting out a long breath. She grabbed her phone again, about to send Azzi a quick message, when she paused, smiling at the thought of her.

Yeah, things were definitely different now. And she was more than okay with that.

—------------

The next few days passed in a blur of messages, late-night FaceTime calls, and stolen moments of laughter despite the miles between them. It didn’t take long for them to settle into a routine—Azzi would text Paige in the morning before practice, Paige would send her something cheesy in return, and then at night, they’d call, talking about everything and nothing until one of them inevitably started dozing off.

But tonight, the call was a little different.

Azzi was propped up in bed, her phone resting against her pillow, watching Paige with a mixture of amusement and fascination. Paige, in the middle of a Fortnite solo match, was completely locked in, her brows furrowed in focus as she maneuvered through the game.

Azzi wasn’t even playing, but she found herself getting into it, reacting to every moment like she was in the game herself. “Oh my God—babe, behind you!”

“I see it,” Paige said, her voice tight with concentration as she built a quick wall and edited through it, taking out an enemy in one clean shot. She grinned at the screen, clearly proud of herself. “Let’s go.”

Azzi, who usually didn’t care much for gaming, actually felt a little thrill. Maybe it was just because it was Paige playing, but she could see why people got so into this.

Paige smirked at her through the screen. “You’re kinda invested, huh?”

Azzi huffed. “You’re making it look fun.” She paused for a second, then hesitated before saying, “Should I get a PS5?”

Paige nearly dropped her controller. “Wait. For real?”

Azzi shrugged, playing it cool, even though she was already considering which version to buy. “Yeah, I mean… you can’t really teach me over FaceTime. Might as well just play with you and put those ‘skills’ you taught me back in your room at the tourney to use.”

Paige’s face lit up like a kid on Christmas morning. “Azzi. Azzi. Yes. A hundred percent yes. I will carry you in duos, don’t even worry about it.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but smiled. “We’ll see about that.”

“No, I’m telling you right now,” Paige insisted. “I got you. I’ll turn you into a Fortnite pro.”

Azzi laughed, shaking her head. “Alright, alright. I’ll get it tomorrow.”

Paige clapped her hands together in excitement. “Oh my God, I’m so hyped.”

Azzi just smiled, loving how animated Paige got over things like this.

They stayed on FaceTime for a little while longer, Paige still playing as Azzi watched, commenting every now and then but mostly just enjoying the way Paige lit up when she won. Eventually, Azzi started yawning, and Paige decided to let her sleep, though not without a soft, “Goodnight, baby.”

—------------

Azzi had fallen asleep on FaceTime, her soft breathing filling the quiet space between them. Paige smiled at the screen, watching the way Azzi’s face relaxed in sleep. She still had the faintest pout on her lips, probably from complaining about how she was finally going to buy a PS5 tomorrow so they could play together.

Paige bit her lip, an idea forming in her head. Azzi was not about to spend her own money on this.

Carefully, she muted herself and opened a new tab, scrolling through different sites until she found what she was looking for. She quickly placed an order, shipping it directly to Azzi’s dorm.

Once the confirmation email came through, she grinned, already imagining Azzi’s reaction. But there was one problem—Azzi could not find out before it arrived. And that’s where Caroline came in.

She pulled up their messages and fired off a text.

Paige: yo u up?

Caroline: its literally 1am what do u want

Paige: favor 🤗 i need u to distract azzi tmrw morning before she tries to go buy a ps5

Caroline: ??? um why

Paige: i already bought her one lmao its getting delivered tmrw morning but i need her to stay in the dorm so she doesnt go buy one herself

Caroline: LMAOOOO ur so down bad 😭 u rlly couldnt let her buy it herself??

Paige: no??? why would i let my girl pay for smth when i can do it for her 🫡

Caroline: nah ur actually sick like head over heels HELPPP ok fine ill keep her in the dorm but u owe me cause she might kill me for holding her back

Paige: appreciate u bestie 🫶🏼

—------------

The next morning, Azzi was up, pulling on a hoodie and grabbing her keys. But just as she was about to leave, Caroline popped up in her doorway.

“Hey, wanna help me with something real quick?” Caroline said, not-so-subtly blocking the exit.

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Uh, I was just about to head out—”

Caroline shook her head. “No, no, you gotta help me first. My laptop’s acting up, and I swear you’re like the only person who can fix it. Just like… give me like 30 minutes?”

Azzi sighed but relented, setting her stuff down. “Alright, but after this, I’m going.”

Meanwhile, Paige was sitting on her bed, refreshing her email like crazy until finally—

Your package has been delivered.

She smirked and quickly messaged Caroline.

paige: package delieved, u can let her go now 😈

caroline: i hate u

paige: thank u carol 🥺🥺

caroline: literally die

Caroline turned back to Azzi, who was still frowning at her laptop. “Actually, never mind, I think I fixed it. You can go now.”

Azzi blinked. “Huh? You think you fixed it? What was even wrong with it?”

Caroline shrugged. “Dunno, but it’s all good now. Have fun buying your—uh, whatever you were getting.”

Azzi gave her a weird look but grabbed her keys again. She barely made it two steps outside before she noticed a package sitting at her door.

Frowning, she bent down and picked it up. There was a small note taped to the top.

“for my princess, no need to buy one when i already got u covered. now we can run duos later. love, paige”

Azzi just stood there, staring at the box, before a huge smile broke across her face.

She picked up the package, rereading Paige’s note at least three more times. Her princess. She shook her head, biting her lip as warmth flooded through her chest. Paige was too much.

She carried the box inside, setting it gently on her bed like it was something fragile.

Caroline, who had been watching from the doorway, let out a dramatic sigh. “God, you are so gone.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop smiling. “Shut up.”

Caroline stepped into the room, arms crossed, a knowing smirk on her face. “No, ‘cause tell me why Paige literally texted me in the middle of the night, 1am to be exact, begging me to stall you this morning ‘cause she refused to let you buy it yourself.”

Azzi paused, looking up at her. “Wait… she told you to distract me?”

Caroline snorted. “Uh, yeah. She was stressing over it. Said, and I quote, why would I let my girl pay for something when I can do it for her?”

Azzi’s face burned at that, and Caroline lived for it.

“Aww,” Caroline cooed, grinning. “You’re blushing. That’s so cute.”

Azzi groaned, shoving her face into her hands. “I hate you.”

Caroline laughed, plopping down on the bed next to the box. “Yeah, yeah, but for real, Paige is so down bad for you. Like, the way she was acting last night? Insane. The girl was refreshing her email like every five seconds waiting for the delivery confirmation.”

Azzi peeked at her through her fingers. “She was?”

Caroline scoffed. “Obviously. She’s obsessed with you. I mean, she literally bought you a PS5 just so y’all could play together. That’s girlfriend of the year behavior.”

Azzi’s heart melted, her fingers tracing the edge of the box. She knew Paige cared about her, but hearing it like this? It made her feel all warm and giddy inside.

Caroline nudged her. “So, what’s the move? You calling your sugar daddy to thank her or what?”

Azzi groaned again. “Never call her that ever again.”

Caroline cackled. “No promises.”

Caroline’s laughter echoed in Azzi’s ears as she grabbed her phone, unlocking it to pull up Paige’s contact. She couldn’t stop the grin that tugged at her lips as she hit the facetime button, watching the screen light up with Paige’s name.

It only took a few seconds before Paige’s face popped up on the screen, her bright smile instantly making Azzi’s heart flutter.

“Hey, princess,” Paige greeted, her voice soft and warm, just like always.

Azzi couldn’t help herself; she smiled even bigger. “Hey,” she replied, her voice cracking slightly as she held up the PS5 box for Paige to see. “You didn’t have to do this. This is way too much.”

Paige’s eyes widened, her grin only growing. “I wanted to. You deserve it. Plus, now we can finally play Fortnite together”

Azzi’s heart melted at the excitement in Paige’s voice. “I’m just… I’m so speechless. I mean, this is… this is insane. I was literally just about to go get it.” She pulled the box closer to the camera, shaking her head in disbelief. “You really didn’t have to do this.”

Paige’s expression softened. “But I wanted to. You’re worth it, Azzi.”

Azzi’s chest tightened, the affection in Paige’s words making her feel like she was floating. “You’re crazy, you know that?”

Paige chuckled, her eyes bright. “Yeah, but you love it.”

Azzi laughed, shaking her head. “I really do.”

She reached to start unboxing the PS5, pulling the lid off carefully as Paige watched eagerly through the screen. “I can’t believe you did this for me. You’re just… amazing.”

Caroline, who had been watching quietly, pretended to gag loudly from the doorway. “Oh my gosh,” she said, dramatically clutching her chest. “You two are too much.”

Azzi laughed, rolling her eyes. “Shut up, Caroline.”

Caroline smirked and raised her hands in mock surrender. “Okay, okay, I’m leaving. You two are about to start getting all sappy again. I can’t be a part of that.”

“Good idea,” Azzi said, still smiling at Paige through the phone. “Go away.”

Caroline let out an exaggerated sigh, turning to leave. “I’m just gonna go throw up in the hallway. Bye, lovebirds.”

Azzi laughed, shaking her head as Caroline disappeared. “Sorry about her.”

Paige grinned. “No worries my love. Now, where were we? Oh yeah, I was about to say how cute you look unboxing your PS5.”

Azzi’s cheeks warmed at the compliment. “You’re too much,” she murmured, her fingers carefully pulling out the console. “But I really do appreciate it. I’m gonna make you proud when we play together.”

“I know you will,” Paige said softly, her gaze never leaving the screen. “I can’t wait to see you play. You better be ready to get carried.”

Azzi laughed, shaking her head. “We’ll see about that. I’ve got some skills up my sleeve.”

“I’m looking forward to seeing them.” Paige’s smile was soft but sincere. “I’m really glad you like it, Azzi. You’re worth it all.”

Azzi’s heart skipped a beat, and she couldn’t stop herself from smiling. “You really know how to make me feel special, don’t you?”

“Only the best for my princess,” Paige teased, her voice full of affection.

Azzi rolled her eyes, but the smile never left her face. “Well, I think I’m officially spoiled now.”

Paige winked. “It’s just the beginning.”

—------------

Azzi had already set up the PS5, the console glowing softly in the background as she adjusted the controller in her hands. She glanced at the screen again, still smiling at Paige.

“Okay, I think it’s all set up. I’ll hop on tonight after practice and some schoolwork. Gotta get everything done first,” Azzi said, a small laugh escaping her lips as she leaned back on the bed, still looking at Paige’s face on the screen.

Paige smiled, her eyes soft. “I can’t wait to play. It’ll be so much fun. Just don’t work too hard, okay? You deserve some downtime.”

Azzi chuckled, nodding. “I won’t. I promise. I’ll be ready to carry you in duos later.”

“Oh, please,” Paige teased, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “I’ll be the one carrying you.”

Azzi laughed, shaking her head. “We’ll see about that.”

Paige’s expression softened as the conversation started winding down. “I’ll talk to you later, okay? I love you, Azzi.”

Azzi’s heart fluttered, and she smiled, her gaze warm. “I love you too babe.” She blew Paige a kiss through the screen, the gesture feeling sweeter every time they did it.

Paige caught the kiss, pressing her hand to her cheek, her smile growing even wider. “Got it,” she said, giggling softly. “I’ll be waiting for you tonight.”

Azzi’s smile mirrored Paige’s, her eyes sparkling with affection. “I can’t wait. Talk later, babe.”

“Later, princess.”

With one last smile, Azzi ended the call, her heart full as she set her phone down. She looked over at the PS5 again, feeling a warm rush of happiness. Not just from the gift, but from everything. The thought of tonight, playing with Paige, made everything else feel like it could wait.

—------------

Later that night, Paige lounges on her bed, PS5 controller in hand, her phone propped up beside her with Azzi on FaceTime. It’s their first time playing Fortnite together, their first time as a duo, and Paige is already taking her role as Azzi’s personal coach way too seriously.

“Alright, princess, we’re landing at Slappy Shores,” Paige announces, marking the location on Azzi’s map. “It’s got solid loot, and we can rotate to somewhere else after we clear it.”

Azzi, brows furrowed, mumbles something about just trying to survive. “Why do I feel like I’m getting thrown into war without training?”

Paige snickers. “Because you are. But don’t worry, I got you.” and almost immediately, Azzi panics. “Wait—there’s someone near me!”

“Where?” Paige’s voice sharpens as she glances at the minimap, already sprinting toward Azzi’s location.

“I—I don’t know! They’re in this house—I think?”

“Geez, Azzi, which house?” Paige groans but still rushes over. “Okay, okay, just build—”

“I don’t know how to do that yet!”

Paige groans louder. “Oh my gosh—”

A gunshot rings out. Azzi shrieks. Paige sees her health bar drop and swears under her breath. “Shit, shit, shit— I got you, hold up.” She rushes into the house, shotgun in hand, and one-pumps the opponent instantly. “Sit the fuck down,” she mutters as she smirks at the screen before crouch-spamming on the downed player.

Azzi laughs. “Why are you doing that babe?”

“It’s called asserting dominance.”

From outside Paige’s room, Ice and KK happen to be walking past when they hear the commotion. At first, it’s just muffled yelling—nothing out of the ordinary for Paige—but then they catch the teasing tone in her voice. Curious, they stop and listen.

“Princess, you gotta pick up this medkit.”

Ice and KK immediately share a look.

Princess.

Again?

They haven’t forgotten a few days ago when they caught a glimpse of Paige’s messages, teasing her endlessly about the very same nickname. And now? Now Paige is saying it out loud, all soft and natural like she doesn’t even realize it.

“Who you think she’s talking to?” Ice whispers wiggling her eyebrows. 

They both already know the answer.

KK smirks. “Only one person gets the princess treatment.”

Deciding they’ve heard enough, the two of them push Paige’s door open without warning.

“Well, well, well,” Ice drawls, leaning against the doorframe. “Who’s the lucky person getting the royal treatment?”

Paige startles, nearly dropping her controller. “What the—? Get out.”

KK just grins. “Ohhh, just friends, huh?”

Paige glares. “Yes, dumbass.”

Ice tilts her head. “Yeah? So if we check your FaceTime right now, it’s not Azzi?”

Azzi, still very much on the call, looks both amused and mildly horrified. “Uh… hey?”

Ice and KK break into laughter. “Knew it.”

“You two are fucking annoying,” Paige mutters, face heating up.

KK grins. “Not our fault you make it so easy. ‘Princess, pick up this medkit’—”

Paige groans, grabbing a pillow and chucking it at them. “Out!”

Ice and KK dodge it, cackling as they retreat, satisfied with their discovery. Paige turns back to her screen, rubbing a hand down her face.

Azzi just smiles. “So… just friends, huh?”

“Azzi,” Paige warns, but she’s already grinning.

—------------

A few games later, Azzi’s eyelids start to droop. She’s been trying to keep up with Paige’s frantic pace, but it’s been hours of non-stop Fortnite and her exhaustion is catching up with her.

“Alright, princess,” Paige says, glancing over at her phone. “This is our last one. You look like you’re about to pass out.”

Azzi yawns, covering her mouth. “I’m good, I swear. Just… one more.”

Paige chuckles, knowing full well Azzi doesn’t have it in her, but she plays along. “Fine, one more, but if you start falling asleep mid-game, I’m calling it.”

Azzi nods, though her head keeps dipping forward. “Okay… deal.”

The duo loads into their final game, and despite Azzi’s tiredness, Paige does her best to guide her, calling out directions, teaching her how to build faster, how to aim better, all the little tricks that would make her a Fortnite pro in no time. The banter continues, a little slower now, but still full of the playful energy that comes with spending time with someone you care about.

As they enter the final circles of the game, things get heated. Azzi’s eyes widen when they realize they’re one of the last teams standing.

“Oh my God, Paige, we’re gonna win.” Azzi’s voice is full of disbelief, her earlier exhaustion pushed to the back of her mind.

Paige grins, adrenaline kicking in. “You bet we are. Stay behind me, princess. I’ll clear the way.”

The last few moments are a blur of fast building, gunshots, and strategic moves, but finally, after a few well-placed shots, the enemy team is down.

“We did it!” Paige yells, her voice filled with triumph. “Let’s fucking gooooo!”

Azzi bursts out laughing, her tiredness completely forgotten in the rush of their win. “We won! I can’t believe it!”

“I told you we’d make a great team,” Paige says, her voice proud but soft as she turns off the PS5. “I knew you had it in you.”

After a brief moment of silence, Paige sets the controller aside, rolling over onto her side. “Alright, we’re done for the night. Time to sleep.”

Azzi, following Paige turning off her console, already curling up under her blanket, doesn’t even hesitate. “Yeah… but, thank you again Babe. For the surprise today. I really loved it.”

Paige smiles, a little shy at the compliment. “Of course, I’m glad you liked it. You deserve it, Baby.”

Azzi smiles back, her voice softening. “I don’t think you realize how much that meant to me.”

Paige’s heart skips a beat, and she can feel the warmth spreading through her chest. “I just wanted to see you happy.”

The call continues, both of them now lying in their beds, the dim light of the screen the only thing illuminating their faces as they settle into the calm of the night.

“I know,” Azzi says quietly, her voice getting softer. “You always make me happy.”

Paige feels a surge of affection at her words, the butterflies she’d gotten earlier returning in full force. “I’m happy too, Azzi… being with you, I mean.”

Azzi’s smile is almost audible as she replies, “Me too.”

For a while, they just lay there in silence, the sound of each other’s breathing calming them both.

Then, just before they drift off to sleep, Azzi murmurs, “Goodnight, Babe.”

“Goodnight, princess.” Paige’s voice is a whisper, warm and tender, and it lingers in Azzi’s ears through the screen as she drifts off to sleep, feeling safe and loved, her heart content in a way it never had been before.

And just like that, the night falls quiet, but the connection between them remains strong, stronger than ever.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[shehimin]

Edgaring time!

Tutorial on how to make your own responsive Edgar :D I will try to explain it in really basic terms, like you’ve never touched a puter (which if you’re making this… I’m sure you’ve touched plenty of computers amirite??? EL APLAUSO SEÑOOOREEES).

If you have some experience I tried to highlight the most important things so you won’t have to read everything, this is literally building a website but easier.

I will only show how to make him move like this:

Disclaimer: I’m a yapper.

Choosing an engine First of all you’ll need something that will allow you to display a responsive background, I used LivelyWallpaper since it’s free and open-source (we love open-source).

Choosing an IDE Next is having any IDE to make some silly code! (Unless you can rawdog code… Which would be honestly impressive and you need to slide in my DMs and we will make out) I use Visual Studio!!!

So now that we have those two things we just need to set up the structure we will use.

Project structure

We will now create our project, which I will call “Edgar”, we will include some things inside as follows:

Edgar

img (folder that will contain images) - thumbnail.png (I literally just have a png of his face :]) - [some svgs…]

face.js (script that will make him interactive)

index.html (script that structures his face!)

LivelyInfo,json (script that LivelyWallpaper uses to display your new wallpaper)

style.css (script we will use to paint him!)

All of those scripts are just literally like a “.txt” file but instead of “.txt” we use “.js”, “.html”, etc… You know? We just write stuff and tell the puter it’s in “.{language}”, nothing fancy.

index.html

Basically the way you build his silly little face! Here’s the code:

<!doctype html> <html>     <head>         <meta charset="utf-8">         <title>Face!</title>         <link rel = "stylesheet" type = "text/css" href = "style.css">     </head>     <body>         <div class="area">             <div class="face">                 <div class="eyes">                     <div class="eyeR"></div>                     <div class="eyeL"></div>                 </div>                 <div class="mouth"></div>             </div>         </div>         <script src="face.js"></script>     </body> </html>

Ok so now some of you will be thinking “Why would you use eyeR and eyeL? Just use eye!“ and you’d be right but I’m a dummy who couldn’t handle making two different instances of the same object and altering it… It’s scary but if you can do it, please please please teach me ;0;!!!

Area comes in handy to the caress function we will implement in the next module (script)! It encapsulates face.

Face just contains the elements inside, trust me it made sense but i can’t remember why…

Eyes contains each different eye, probably here because I wanted to reuse code and it did not work out and when I kept going I was too scared to restructure it.

EyeR/EyeL are the eyes! We will paint them in the “.css”.

Mouth, like the eyeR/eyeL, will be used in the “.css”.

face.js

Here I will only show how to make it so he feels you mouse on top of him! Too ashamed of how I coded the kisses… Believe me, it’s not pretty at all and so sooo repetitive…

// ######################### // ##      CONSTANTS      ## // ######################### const area = document.querySelector('.area'); const face = document.querySelector('.face'); const mouth = document.querySelector('.mouth'); const eyeL = document.querySelector('.eyeL'); const eyeR = document.querySelector('.eyeR'); // ######################### // ##     CARESS HIM      ## // ######################### // When the mouse enters the area the face will follow the mouse area.addEventListener('mousemove', (event) => {     const rect = area.getBoundingClientRect();     const x = event.clientX - rect.left;     const y = event.clientY - rect.top;     face.style.left = `${x}px`;     face.style.top = `${y}px`; }); // When the mouse leaves the area the face will return to the original position area.addEventListener('mouseout', () => {     face.style.left = '50%';     face.style.top = '50%'; });

God bless my past self for explaining it so well, but tbf it’s really simple,,

style.css

body {     padding: 0;     margin: 0;     background: #c9c368;     overflow: hidden; } .area {     width: 55vh;     height: 55vh;     position: absolute;     top: 50%;     left: 50%;     transform: translate(-50%,-50%);     background: transparent;     display: flex; } .face {     width: 55vh;     height: 55vh;     position: absolute;     top: 50%;     left: 50%;     transform: translate(-50%,-50%);     background: transparent;     display: flex;     justify-content: center;     align-items: center;     transition: 0.5s ease-out; } .mouth {     width: 75vh;     height: 70vh;     position: absolute;     bottom: 5vh;     background: transparent;     border-radius: 100%;     border: 1vh solid #000;     border-color: transparent transparent black transparent;     pointer-events: none;     animation: mouth-sad 3s 420s  forwards step-end; } .face:hover .mouth {     animation: mouth-happy 0.5s forwards; } .eyes { ��   position: relative;     bottom: 27%;     display: flex;   } .eyes .eyeR {     position: relative;     width: 13vh;     height: 13vh;     display: block;     background: black;     margin-right: 11vh;     border-radius: 50%;     transition: 1s ease } .face:hover .eyeR {     transform: translateY(10vh);      border-radius: 20px 100% 20px 100%; } .eyes .eyeL {     position: relative;     width: 13vh;     height: 13vh;     display: block;     background: black;     margin-left: 11vh;     border-radius: 50%;     transition: 1s ease; } .face:hover .eyeL {     transform: translateY(10vh);     border-radius: 100% 20px 100% 20px; } @keyframes mouth-happy {     0% {         background-color: transparent;         height: 70vh;         width: 75vh;     }     100% {         border-radius: 0 0 25% 25%;         transform: translateY(-10vh);     } } @keyframes mouth-sad {     12.5%{         height: 35vh;         width: 67vh;     }     25% {         height: 10vh;         width: 60vh;     }     37.5% {         width: 53vh;         border-radius: 0%;         border-bottom-color: black;     }     50% {         width: 60vh;         height: 10vh;         transform: translateY(11vh);         border-radius: 100%;         border-color: black transparent transparent transparent;     }     62.5% {         width: 64vh;         height: 20vh;         transform: translateY(21vh);     }     75% {         width: 69vh;         height: 40vh;         transform: translateY(41vh);     }     87.5% {         width: 75vh;         height: 70vh;         transform: translateY(71vh);     }     100% {         width: 77vh;         height: 90vh;         border-color: black transparent transparent transparent;         transform: translateY(91vh);     } }

I didn’t show it but this also makes it so if you don’t pay attention to him he will get sad (mouth-sad, tried to make it as accurate to the movie as possible, that’s why it’s choppy!)

The .hover is what makes him go like a creature when you hover over him, if you want to change it just… Change it! If you’d rather him always have the same expression, delete it!

Anyway, lots of easy stuff, lots of code that I didn’t reuse and I probably should’ve (the eyes!!! Can someone please tell me a way I can just… Mirror the other or something…? There must be a way!!!) So now this is when we do a thinking exercise in which you think about me as like someone who is kind of dumb and take some pity on me.

LivelyInfo.json

{   "AppVersion": "1.0.0.0",   "Title": "Edgar",   "Thumbnail": "img/thumbnail.png",   "Preview": "thumbnail.png",   "Desc": "It's me!.",   "Author": "Champagne?",   "License": "",   "Type": 1,   "FileName": "index.html" }

Easy stuff!!! 

Conclusion

This could've been a project on git but i'm not ready and we're already finished. I'm curious about how this will be seen on mobile and PC,,, i'm not one to post here.

Sorry if I rambled too much or if i didn't explain something good enough! If you have any doubts please don't hesitate to ask.

And if you add any functionality to my code or see improvements please please please tell me, or make your own post!

[wojenka]

i need more mutuals who are into coding and engineering!! more info under the cut!!

I planned to become an electrical engineer like my stepdad but then I decided to change my path to programming. I'm currently studying at technikum (<- wikipedia link so I don't have to explain the whole polish learning system), programmer major.

this year I have exams from web development (10th Jan - theory, 16th Jan - practical exams) and next year I have exams from App development (both mobile and desktop).

I know C family languages, Java, Python and those ones I am currently using. I also know a bit of Kotlin and I think I will continue learning it.

For web dev I know HTML and CSS ofc but also PHP and JS.

Planning on learning more languages I can use for App and operating system development as well as just to know them cause I want to after this year's exams!

my learning list:

Lua (I heard it's easy but I can't really get myself to read anything about this atm idk why)

Ruby

Assembly

Rust

As for electrical engineering I don't know much tbh but I would like to learn! I just used CAD programs for technical drawings (dad taught me some basic things when I was still thinking about going his path) helped my dad fix things on his Solar farm, houses of our neighbors and I made a few very simple circuits for fun a few years ago. Now I'm mostly focused on programming but since I learned most of the things I need for exams I have more time to do whatever I want now!

I'd like to get to know more people so I can share and mostly learn new things since even though I'm coding for years I consider myself a beginner and I am a total beginner when it comes to electrical engineering.

I'm willing to be friends or at least mutuals with anyone who codes or makes websites or is in STEM! no matter what your specialty/interest is exactly and no matter if you are a total beginner or a professional ^__^

I'd also like to have some mutuals who are into old web development and retro computing!!!!!!!!

edit: I forgot but I'm also interested in physics and quantum physics

[joaosnovia]

OKAY SO LIKE HEAR ME OUT yk how joao went to a grand prix once? (idek if thats true i js saw a pic of him with hugo on what i think is the spa track) anyway for this req we'll pretend that's true

so ferrari invites him to his garage (bc we're both tifosi ykyk) anyway and he's like curious and stuff about the car and kind of gets close to it to inspect and stuff

and then reader (who is a ferrari engineer) is like watching him from afar and basically in love (idk bro)

so then hes like looking around to see if someone is there he can ask and he sees reader and he js starts bombarding her with questions and she's answering all of them and yeah !!

idk what to do with the rest of the plot so i trust you to make it better than what my shitty ass mind can put into words <33

❦ - forza ferrari.

warnings:: i wrote this in between history and math revision

writers notes:: running out of things to say! typical me 🤍. anyway the body in the moodboard is tea 😮‍💨.

tags:: @barcapix @n0vazsq @httpsdana @paucubarsisimp @universefcb @mariejuli

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

the ferrari garage smells of oil, rubber, and the sharp scent of metal. it’s familiar to you, your second home, really. a place where everything moves in a rhythm, a choreography of machines, engineers, and the relentless hum of technology.

you’re focused on your task, checking over blueprints, ensuring everything’s in order for the next big race. the noise around you is a constant buzz, but it fades away as you work. that is, until you feel a shift in the air, a subtle disturbance, like the way the world changes when something important is about to happen.

you look up just in time to see joão walking into the garage.

it’s surreal, really. he’s here. in your world. the world of precision and speed.

you try not to stare, but your eyes follow him anyway. his presence is hard to ignore. you’ve seen him on the pitch countless times, but here, in this space, he’s a different kind of curious, a different kind of focused. he’s not playing football; he’s inspecting a car. and the way he steps around the ferrari SF90 with wide eyed interest makes your heart skip a beat.

he leans down, inspecting the tires, his fingers grazing the rubber as he mumbles to himself. he’s clearly fascinated, but there’s no one around to give him answers. and that’s when his eyes scan the room, searching for someone to help him out.

he sees you.

and just like that, it’s as if everything else disappears. his focus shifts from the car to you, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. for a second, you think he’s going to keep walking, but instead, he strides over to you with that easy confidence of his.

‘hey,’ he says, a warm smile spreading across his face. ‘can you explain this to me?’

you blink, a little caught off guard. you’ve never been that close to him before, not like this. but you swallow down the nervous flutter in your chest and nod, trying to focus on the task at hand.

‘sure,’ you say, clearing your throat. ‘what are you curious about?’

he gestures toward the car. ‘everything. how does it work? what makes it so fast? these tires, they look different from what i’ve seen before. are they special?’

you chuckle softly, glad for the distraction. it’s easy to talk about something you love, and despite your nerves, you find yourself answering his questions one after another. he listens intently, nodding and leaning closer as if he can’t get enough.

it’s almost adorable, how much he’s into this. how interested he is in something that’s not football, something that’s all yours. he’s not just asking questions for the sake of it; he’s genuinely intrigued, and it shows in the way his eyes light up with every answer you give him.

you talk about the aerodynamics, the engine power, the design, everything you’ve spent years learning. and with every word, joão leans in just a little closer, his gaze never leaving you.

you’re trying so hard not to blush under the weight of his attention. it’s a little too much, if you’re being honest. and then, when you explain the tire specs, he laughs, a low sound that makes your heart race.

‘you really know your stuff, huh?’ he says, his voice teasing but warm.

you smile, shrugging. ‘i guess so. it’s my job.’

he studies you for a moment, as if weighing something in his head. then, with a slight smirk, he leans even closer, his hand grazing the side of the car. ‘so… do you work on this exact car? or are you just the tire expert?’

his teasing tone makes you laugh, and you find yourself more relaxed than you thought you would be around him.

‘i’m involved in pretty much every aspect of the car,’ you say, trying to sound casual, but it’s hard when he’s this close, his breath warm against your skin.

his eyes flicker between your face and the car, and there’s something in the way he’s looking at you now, something a little different. it’s more than curiosity about the car,it’s genuinely enjoying your presence. and before you can think of anything else to say, he breaks the silence with that grin of his.

‘that’s incredible,’ he says, and this time, his smile is softer, more personal. ‘i never really thought about everything that goes into it. it’s more than just speed, huh?’

you nod, feeling that quiet connection spark between you both. ‘a lot more. it’s a lot of people working together, engineers, designers, mechanics, everyone.’

‘and you’re one of the people making it all happen,’ he says, his voice quieter now. almost like a secret between you.

you’re not sure why, but his words make your heart race. and it’s then you realise, he’s not just curious about the car. he’s genuinely interested in you, in your world.

‘yeah,’ you say softly, a smile tugging at your lips. ‘i guess so.’

there’s a brief silence, just the two of you standing there, the hum of the garage all around you. you can feel his gaze on you, the way he’s looking at you now. it’s not just admiration for the work you do, it’s something more. and before you can think of anything else to say, he breaks the silence with that grin of his.

‘well, in that case, i guess i’ll have to keep asking you questions then,’ he says, his voice light, but there’s something else behind it, something that has your chest tightening in anticipation.

you’re not sure what to say, but you can’t stop smiling. ‘you’re welcome to.’

and as you stand there, caught in his gaze, surrounded by the roar of engines and the soft hum of ferrari’s world, you realise, maybe, just maybe, this curiosity between you and joão? it’s just the beginning.

[xylem-3-keys]

Maple the Suburban Tank Engine

2/23/2025 Update: I gave her the lore based on research of the Barry Railway Class J. Yes it's realistic and I intend it to be.

1/24/2025 Update: I have changed her basis to the Barry Railway Class J and her nationality to Welsh after realizing that Irish engines can not run on standard gauge tracks In case you're wondering why she has different numbers from both universe, it's because one, in RWS, Maple arrives early before engines 7-11. Meaning that she was awarded with her number for doing a respectful act. TVS has no logic because an engine arrives no matter how old it is, so the year built and withdrawal didn't matter in that universe. She is No. 22 on my Google sheet before I gave it an overhaul. Both of my AUs don't coexist.

I've made this OC to replace Billy (+ Nia) in my headcanon. Right now, Billy does not exist (as well as Nia because I hate her.) in my headcanon anymore. Maple is a female as the NWR engine to also replace Nia. Maple was formally from Ireland. Human version of Maple is out.

Humanized version

Lore

Maple, the Barry Railway Class J was the youngest engine and the last to be built in early Autumn of 1899 on the Barry Railway located in South Wales, designed to pull suburban passengers from Barry to Cardiff. She was given the name “Maple” from her first driver after discovering maple trees for the first time in her life.

Unlike all of her siblings and a few who have the same common facial features from humans, Maple was the only engine with vitiligo on her face, which is very rare on humans and engines. Because of her facial appearance back then, her siblings found it funny, and they made fun of her. Not only that, when she was pulling suburban coaches, some of them were disgusted to see her face, and some laughed at her as well. As much as Maple didn't want to puff out of her shed with her siblings. Her crew didn’t know what to do with it, but they told her that they don't focus on their work and instead make fun of her facial appearance. The only advice they gave to her was to ignore them and the people who shamed her. Maple agreed, so any engine who shames her was ignored by her or told to be quiet and get to work.

After years of working on the Barry Railway, in 1922, she and her kind were passed to the Great Western Railway, as the Barry Railway. Maple was saddened to hear that the Railway she loved was gone, but on the other hand, her siblings got used to her vitiligo after time passed by while some engines she first met were not. She disliked the pine green paint and missed her red livery, but she didn't complain because it wasn't worth it. It was just that it's not the same without her old railway. Maple did her same job as usual, but her operation was cut short more than she could imagine on the Great Western. Withdrawals of the Class Js began in 1926. She didn't know what it meant to withdraw until an engine told her what it really meant. It made Maple paranoid. So paranoid that she believed she would be next on the cutter's torch. After two decades of her service in Wales, the manager announced that it was Maple's turn to be withdrawn. She became petrified, not understanding what she did to deserve to be withdrawn. The little green engine did all the work she was tasked to, and she asked herself that this was what they repay her. After her withdrawal, she was never seen on Barry or Cardiff ever again as she waited to be put on the cutter's torch. Maple watched her other siblings being scrapped and tortured to death, and she was the last one remaining. After her siblings got scrapped, she was next until the manager came in and told her it was her lucky day. He informed Maple that she would be sent to Sodor to work on the NWR for suburban services there. Maple was very relieved and happy that her life was saved, but on the other hand, she was traumatised to see her kind being scrapped and that she was the only Class J survivor.

As she arrived at Sodor, she was repainted to red as her color choice. She never had a number until 1967. Maple is currently working on Sodor as a suburban service engine to this day.

Ew old shit ref

[tickle-bugs]

Cool Guy

Anon: Heya! If you're still doing them, could you make a tickle fic on Luke and Han but js Han getting Luke? I love the whole Luke being like Hans lil bro 😭 An idea being maybe Luke is embarrassing Han in front of Leia and Han gets him back, Leia maybe helping Han a bit? I like your fics a lot haha! It's alr if not ofc, js have a good day! :D &lt;3

Summary: Han is cool, suave, and absolutely irresistible. Luke vehemently disagrees.

Han knows logically that he cannot not squish the galaxy’s last hope like a bug. That would be unwise. There is, however, zero question of if he deserves it.

Luke is almost better at being a little shit than he is at being a Jedi.

“Princess!” Han leans against the wall. The Falcon’s internals hum behind it. Leia looks up at him blankly. 

“Pest.” She takes a bite of a sandwich. “What do you want?”

Nothing. Not a thing. He just loves the irritated curve of her eyebrow, the sharpness of her gaze, the curl of her lips--

“I’d love it if you’d stop taking what’s not yours.” He nods towards the sandwich. Leia regards it, then makes deep eye contact on her next bite. Han chuckles in something like disbelief, but he knows her. Knows how she likes to provoke. 

“Nice boys share their food.” She takes another bite.

“Well, I ain’t nice. Keep your thieving little hands to yourself.” Han considers wrapping up the sandwich, just to be petty, but he knows she hardly takes interest in his things unless she needs something. He could find something else to eat. 

“Or else what?” She plays with the crust of the bread. Eye contact. God, he loves this game of theirs. She leaves him breathless too often for his liking, though. As he flounders for a comeback, he hears a high-pitched noise from the other side of the room. 

Luke. Great. 

“What are you wearing?” Luke laughs incredulously. Han looks down at himself. He’d put on a fur vest today instead of his usual cargo one. It was something he’d snatched off some mook that’d tried to set him up with a dishonest deal. It’s old and it smells a little funny, but he likes it. It’s his now. 

“Wh—it’s a vest. It’s cold.” Han frowns. 

“You look like Chewie shed on you.” Luke leans his hip against the doorway as he settles in to mock. There’s a Wookiee outcry of indignation from the cockpit that goes unanswered.

“It’s a fashion statement.” Han adjusts his posture, gives them a new angle. Luke snorts. Han scowls.

“What exactly are you stating?” Leia rests her chin in her hands. She’s got a crumb on her cheek. He does not think about brushing it away. 

“You’re both terrible.” Han stomps off to change. 

“Right back atcha!” Leia calls after him. Her laughter is sweet, even at his expense. 

….

Run-ins with Empire patrols always put Han on a fine edge--he’s a well-oiled machine with Chewie at his back, but recent additions to the Falcon have proven…distracting. As he slams them into a hyperspace jump, the twins’ noise somehow drowns out the noise of the engine. Leia’s complaining that he took too many risks, Luke’s insisting he took too little, and Han’s half tempted to spin send the Falcon into a barrel roll just to hear a different sound.

Chewie won’t let him. The honorable bastard.

The moment they finish the jump, Han swivels out of his chair and goes…well, he’s not sure where he’s going, but he knows he needs to see and hear something besides Luke crunching angrily on crackers. 

Leia follows on Han’s heels, Luke follows on hers, and Han considers just ejecting himself from the airlock and being done with it. 

“If you want to die, be my guest, but don’t put us at risk for your ego.” Leia smacks his chest. Han can’t tell if he’s imagining the lingering touch of her fingers. 

“No, you’d miss me too much.” He fires back, pulling out of her grasp. He takes long strides, taking a petty sort of joy in hearing significantly shorter legs scramble after him. 

“Not a chance in hell,” Leia snarls, snatching the back of his vest. He whirls around. 

“Yes, you would, because things are boring without me. You like having me around.” He leans into her space. She stands her ground. 

“The fate of the galaxy is boring?” She conveniently ignores that last part. Han doesn’t miss it. 

“It is without me. Face it, princess. You’re attached.” He puts his hands on his hips. Leia’s face turns an interesting color.

“Ha! See? Attached!” Han points triumphantly. Leia smacks his hand away. 

“I didn’t say anything!”

“You didn’t need to. The truth’s all over your face.” He circles that pointer finger in her face. She smacks it hard enough to bruise this time. 

“The truth that I can’t stand you, more like. You’re arrogant, reckless, irresponsible—“

“And exactly your type.” Han grins. “You like having me around. Meanwhile, I’m cool, casual, and unattached.” Han clicks his tongue. Leia attempts to burn a hole through his forehead with her gaze. He worries for a moment that she might. 

“Really?” Luke crunches loudly. “I heard you telling Chewie that you like having us around. That you wouldn’t know what you’d do without us. Didn’t sound very cool and casual.” 

“I was drunk.” Han’s face burns. Leia snorts. Han scowls. 

“Drunk mind, sober thoughts.” Luke grins teasingly, waving a chip in his face. Han tries to snatch the bag, but Luke twirls effortlessly out of the way. Damn Jedi. 

“Sounds like you’re attached, laser brain.” Leia circles her finger in his face, and Han wonders if turning himself in to the Empire might be better for his ego.

…

Han’s not sure when his game with Leia stopped being a game and started being this, but he’s not complaining. He’s made out in worse storage rooms than the ones on the Falcon. They’d started with fetching a rations restock, devolved into bickering, and, well…their arguments usually end in violence or the threat of it, so Leia trying to climb him like a tree is a much-welcomed departure from form.

Normally Han’s great at keeping his emotions in a cold, dark little box where he never has to deal with them, but Leia looked so pretty yelling at him that he just…had to kiss her. He knew at that moment he’d die if he didn’t. It’s not the first time they’ve kissed and he hopes it won’t be the last, but each touch with Leia is like drifting closer to the beautiful terror of the sun. The best part, the overwhelming part, is that she wants him too. 

All of that would’ve been well and good, great even, if Luke hadn’t been standing in the doorway. 

Luke and Leia have some kind of stare-off that Han suspects involves their twinness--there’s lots of flustered, offended noises without words being uttered. Luke raises his eyebrow in a way that really seems to get to Leia, because she splutters, which she expressly does not do. 

“Don’t you start! I tolerate him!” She glares at Luke, her cheeks turning red. 

“Aww.” Han smirks. She elbows him in the ribs.

“With your mouth?” Luke’s near hysterical. 

“Among other things.” Han smirks wider. Luke’s face twists in sheer disgust. 

“Shut up,” Leia hisses, blushing and hitting him harder. He grins.

Luke levels a finger at Han, a habit he picked up from him in the first place, and then stalks off. 

“Chances he knifes me in my sleep?” 

“Lower than me doing it myself.” Leia swats his arm once more for good measure, but she’s still glowing, and Han thinks he might want to see that smile of hers for the rest of his life.

“I’ll take those odds.” 

The difference between Luke and his sister, in Han’s opinion, is that Luke’s noise goes inwards. Leia will scream at Han until she’s red in the face and then she’ll miraculously find more air. Luke gets quiet and vengeful, which is why Han starts to suspect foul play the third time he trips over thin air. 

Han really wants to fight back, but every time he opens his mouth, Leia’s lurking around some dark corner. 

On hour three of Luke’s temper tantrum, Han’s eye begins to twitch. He’s probably bruised every inch of his shins by now, he’s tired, and he thinks if he can close his eyes for an hour he might remember how to function. Just a sweet, Skywalkerless hour. 

Han drags his hand over his face as he walks off to his cabin. He finds Luke standing in the hall like an omen. He doesn’t move when Han approaches. The little furrow in his brow is probably meant to be intimidating, and maybe one day it will be, but Han can’t bring himself to care. 

The desire to lay down overcomes his rational thought, and he does to Luke what he often does to Leia: jams his hands under Luke’s arms and lifts him out of the way.

Except, unlike Leia, Luke doesn’t try to kick him. He lets out a giggle at a pitch Han didn’t know he was capable of. 

Han pauses, raising an eyebrow at the rapidly-reddening Jedi in his arms. He twitches his fingers. Luke chokes out a surprised laugh. 

Han’s suddenly not tired anymore. Funny, that. 

“Han, don’t you dare, c’mon--”

Han sets Luke down but doesn’t release him--he viciously wiggles his fingers where they’re trapped under Luke’s arms. He goes down like a sack of droid components, filling the Falcon with bright, bouncy laughter it so desperately needs. 

“You get a minute for every bruise, and my shins are looking mighty purple.” Han whistles lowly, pressing into the gaps between Luke’s ribs. Luke lets out a giggly hiccup and kicks his legs. 

“That’s not f-fair!” Luke clutches Han’s arms desperately. Han twitches his fingers and he curls up, shaking his head. Han distantly wonders when Luke last laughed like this. If he ever has. 

“Yeah? Tell me about it. Pick on someone your own size and maybe life will be fairer.” Han tries to keep his stare blank, but his mouth quirks up at the corners. Luke lets out an indignant gasp, but he quickly tumbles right back down into laughter.

“Let go,” Luke growls, his whole face scrunching around his smile. 

“Kid, I can’t let you go if you’ve got my hands.” Han gives a dramatic tug. He stops, raising his eyebrow expectantly. Luke pouts--pouts!--at him and lifts his arms at glacial pace. Han pulls away…

…and goes right for Luke’s exposed stomach. His shout of betrayal mixes beautifully with his laughter.

“Rookie mistake,” Leia tuts, snickering at Luke’s misfortune. Han jumps at her appearance--man, he should put a bell on these two--and Luke takes that as a signal to start wriggling away. Han reels him back in with a hearty laugh.

“Leia, fetch your--” Han cuts Luke off with a squeeze to the side before he can say anything embarrassing. 

“You gonna help, Your Worship? Or are you above getting your hands dirty?” Han casts a glance at Leia. 

“Never.” Leia smirks, kneeling beside Luke. They stare at each other for a long, tense while. Leia’s gaze drifts over him the same way she sifts through a plan for holes, until she stops at his knees. 

Luke’s eyes widen. Leia grins.

She latches on like a viper and Luke squeals, drumming his feet on the ground. He throws his head back and cackles himself into silence, flopping around uselessly. 

“Remind me to stay on your good side,” Han chuckles, a little nervous.

“You’re notoriously bad at it,” she smirks. Han swears he feels the ghost of her fingers on his own legs. He shudders.

Luke’s surrender is less of a cry and more of a wheeze, but they let him go quickly all the same. He tosses his arm over his glowing face with a great, heaving sigh.

“You alright over there?” Han chuckles, nudging Luke’s boot. He lifts his arm to glare.

“I hate you.”

“I know.” Han pats his ankle. Luke kicks him. Han squeezes his knee and he immediately blurts out a tired, giggly apology. 

“Stop being a little shit and trying to trip me up. It’s not gonna work. Too cool for that.” Han pats Luke’s stomach. 

Warm hands wrap around his waist and he leans back, scaring himself with how easily he fits into Leia’s arms. She hooks her chin over his shoulder.

“Are you ready?” She murmurs, brushing her fingers over the fabric of his shirt. 

“Ready for what?” His hand finds hers. He’s more than ready, if he’s reading this right. She’s rarely like this beyond closed doors, and it sends a thrill through him. Her lips brushing his ear drives him just a little crazy. He starts to stand, but she pulls him back down. 

“To be tripped up.” She smirks. He feels it. 

“Wh—“ 

Leia’s fingers dig in with deadly accuracy. Han crumples and his bravado goes with him. Loud, hearty laughter bursts from him as he slides to the floor, boneless in her arms.

“Aw, look at you cool guy.” Luke sidles up next to him with a shit eating grin. He tickles mockingly under Han’s chin and he, mortifyingly, giggles. Luke chases the sound, having way too much fun for Han’s liking. 

Han growls and tries to kick him. Leia’s fingers find his hips—cruel and unusual—and he’s toast. He resigns himself to die in her lap, which isn’t the overall worst way to go, and makes a mental note to write Luke out of his will. 

As long as Chewie thinks he’s cool, he supposes it’s still a net win. 

[eribytevt]

Hello world! Do you like Programming? Do you like Streaming? Do you like Vtubers/Anime? Does a combination of the 3 sound slightly interesting to you? Do you enjoy all these questions I'm asking? If you answered yes to any of these questions then why not hop by Sunday September 17th at 11am CST to watch me (@EribyteVT on twitch), A backend software engineer try and implement a website using only HTML, JS, CSS, and these images I made in MS paint!

[Image ID: A screenshot of the Vtuber Eribyte on a black background. She is from the chest up looking away from the camera with a smile. She is wearing a tank top and labcoat. Her hair is long, wavy, and gray. she is holding a book /.End ID]

[Image ID: 3 Images of a basic drawing of a website can be seen. The first image is the schedule page, which contains a stream schedule and a count down until the next stream. The next image contains the socials page, which shows several social media site names with squiggles underneath them. The last image shows the home page./.End ID]

[smithadam4520]

How to Speed Up Your WordPress Site for Better Rankings

A fast-loading website is essential for better SEO, improved user experience, and higher conversions. If your WordPress site is slow, you’re likely losing both visitors and ranking opportunities. Here’s how you can fix that.

Choose the Right Hosting

Your hosting provider sets the foundation for your website’s speed. Shared hosting may be affordable, but it often leads to slow performance. Instead, go for managed WordPress hosting or cloud-based options. Many professional website development services include high-performance hosting setup as part of their package.

Use a Lightweight Theme

A bulky, feature-heavy theme can slow your site down significantly. Switch to a lightweight and optimized theme like Astra, Neve, or GeneratePress to improve load time without compromising design.

Optimize Images

Images are often the biggest contributors to page size. Compress them using tools like ShortPixel or Smush, and use next-gen formats like WebP for faster delivery.

Install a Caching Plugin

Caching helps by storing static versions of your site, reducing the server load. Plugins like WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache can make a noticeable difference in performance.

Minify and Combine Files

Reduce the size of your CSS, JS, and HTML files by minifying them. This removes unnecessary characters and spaces to speed up load time. Tools like Autoptimize make this easy.

Use a CDN

A Content Delivery Network (CDN) distributes your content across multiple servers globally, ensuring faster access no matter where your visitors are located.

Clean Up Unused Plugins and Database

Too many plugins can slow your site and affect performance. Remove what you don’t use and regularly clean your database using WP-Optimize or similar tools.

Final Thoughts

Speed is a major factor in how users and search engines interact with your site. If you’re unsure where to start, partnering with expert website development services can help you optimize every technical aspect for maximum performance and SEO benefits.

Read more -https://www.janbaskdigitaldesign.com/wordpress-website-design-and-development

[privilegejunkie]

If you add the Tumblr like and reblog buttons to your custom theme, it embeds an entire iframe into the DOM for each button, per post, which is total fucking ass. It also only lets you choose white, black, or grey for the icon colors for some reason.

Gonna write some JS to hack around this and extract the iframe supplied API url for like/reblog actions. I tried to re-construct the API url with a little reverse engineering, but it felt way too fragile; like it could break with some minor future update from Tumblr’s side. I only had the like action working consistently using this approach.

Next steps, if I can’t get a clean reverse engineering approach working:

1. Leverage Tumblr’s embedded iframes, but set the CSS display property to none for them.

2. Use JS to extract the API endpoints from the iframes for the actions.

3. Construct sane, normal links, with the href set to the extracted API endpoints.

[engineer-gunzelpunk]

Locomotive Rights In Australia (Victoria): Part 2

To celebrate Traintober generally, I am gonna add part two to my Locomotive Rights article that I posted last year, inspired by @joezworld's Locomotive Rights series.

Part One is here.

***

A Funereal Digression

Perversion of An Old Rite

VR S301 Sir Thomas Mitchell being broken up at Newport, Oct 1953

In the days before the Twilight, every engine on the Victorian Railways system knew that in the end at some point, they would be scrapped. It would be extremely fortunate if a loco was kept for preservation, or if they were sold to a private industrial railway for other purposes. They all knew the end would come at the end of a cutting torch should they get too old, too broken or out of date. Barring a few exceptions, very very few of the pre-Clapp old guard survived past the Twilight; the formidable Lady Sovereign Hill Y112, the very oldest of the preserved VR locos, Flicka F172, the venerable Spirit of Ballarat D3 639, among others.

The rite of Final Firing seems to have been a universal custom, in which the loco was put to rest as painlessly as possible, either through the removal and destruction of the smokebox door prior to cutting or more usually, the administration of a substance called Aqua Negra.

A popular locomotive custom appendaged to the Final Firing was the Last Service. When the engine was finally put to rest, the driver of the loco would announce to the others the engine’s passing and they would acknowledge for a few minutes such a passing…, with an explicit utterance that their parts would provide repair to their friends or make up the parts for the next generation of locos to come.

Though they may have been beasts of burden, it behooved the enginemen to at least put their iron-hided friends out with at least a bit of quiet dignity. If they couldn’t be saved, at least an acknowledgement that they lived and worked and that their parts could be Useful, providing some kind of connection or lineage.

All of this was forgotten in the Twilight.

In the frantic urge to end the Steam Age, no rites were administered. Locomotives were instead withdrawn and placed on the scraproads at locomotive depots... or in sidings to rust before they were cut to pieces. The railway administration saw no need to follow the old custom for mere machinery, a cruelty reckoned on by their general belief the engines were just things…

At Newport, dozens and dozens of engines would lie waiting for scrapping in plain view of the locomotives still in service, in front of the West and East Block sheds. This was meant to serve as a humiliation and a warning to the steam engines of their inevitable fate. When their time was at hand, some were taken to the now ironically named Erecting Shops to be cut to pieces bit by bit… or were broken up where they stood.

Heavy Harry sat on the scraplines in front of the old sawmill from 1958 to 1961 while being unofficially idle on those same scraplines for two years previous after his last freight run in 1956. This terrible experience stripped away all of his naivety regarding human caprice and rendered him bitter.

Other engines were left to rust in depots all over Victoria, some engines merely being purchased a decade to 15 years earlier in the case of the Scottish Rs, the Lancastrian Js and the most recent batch of N classes imported from Scotland.

A particularly gut wrenching report from the scrapyard  recounts the fate of two X-classes, X29 “Boofhead” and X36 “Greyhound”. Coupled together on the scrapline, Boofhead was slowly cut to pieces over a period of months in front of his sister, Greyhound. She was saved at the 11th hour by engineman, Gerald.A Dee, for whom she is now named; but she has been left substantially traumatised… which counted for her militancy in the “scrapbreaker” guerrilla war waged by Harry and his group of humans and humanoid locos during the late 60s and 70s.

But the case that shocked engines and humans the most was the unceremonial scrapping of the S-class Pacifics.

As soon as the B- and S- class diesels had arrived on the scene, the four S-class “Blues” knew that the end of their careers was coming, as did the preservationists. What they didn’t bank on was the locos being snatched away and scrapped before they were even given a chance to be saved. S301 Sir Thomas Mitchell had been scrapped in late 1953, but that was accepted grudgingly as he had been particularly worn out, his parts distributed to his brothers as was the custom. (Allegedly, tears had been shed by the scrappers as they worked to cut the loco up).

The real shock set in when the rest of them were scrapped in short succession without ceremony and more outrageously, without any attempt to set them aside for preservation, seemingly out of spite on the part of the VR; the last one to be scrapped was the eldest of the four, S300 Matthew Flinders in late 1954. 

The lack of the Last Service for them and the presence of a mysterious hill on the grounds of Newport Workshops fuelled an erroneous belief among the locomotives and some humans that one of them was buried in that hill, and that the engine’s body could be retrieved.

Among the locos, a common belief sprung up that this engine, if he was retrieved and fired, could bring back the glory of steam and drive away the baleful new diesels that were tramping about the place, like some kind of steam-powered King Arthur returning from death. Their un-repainted tendertanks being used for weed spraying added fuel to this belief. This belief was brutally crushed when the scrappings ramped up without this engine King Arthur returning, and the preservationists could not find this phantom loco beneath “Mount Newport”.

When it finally sunk in that they would never return, the steam engines were sunk in grief and terror. Bigger changes were coming, and they were shrouded under the deceptively optimistic name of “Operation Phoenix”. The scrapping-murder of the S-classes were the one of the first salvos in what was eventually known as the Lokodammerung or the Twilight of The Locomotives.

It also sowed the seeds for future preservation and resistance.

[incerro]

[br0-k3n-sch00lb01]

Hihi I've come asking for a kel & hero angst/comfort fic. Again. I js rlly like them<3

uh 1 or 2 years post-game (wtv ending you want) summer break once again, hero comes back from college and kel sees him in person for the first time in months. other than that do whatever with it

- 💫🏀

kk! Sry it took awhile i was thinking

Kel waited anxiously out front, watching for Hero’s blue mercedes to pull up to their house. Faraway had been lonely without Hero for awhile… what with Sunny moving in to be roommates with Basil and still barely coming out of his house at all anymore, even if he wasn’t completely shut in. Aubrey was warming up to him more every day and they were close friends at the moment, but she was off on a month long trip with her mom (despite her protests.) Kel was listening to music- Treehouse by Alex G- and then he heard an engine and looked around. He saw the familiar blue car pull into the driveway and leapt out of his chair, sprinting to be next to the driver’s seat door. Hero opened it after parking the car and Kel tackled him.

“HEEEERROOOOO!”

Hero flinched but hugged him back.

“Hey, Kel!!”

Kel pulled away to let Hero stand up and get out of his car.

“What’s been going on around here lately?”

Kel sighed.

“Sunny is being SOOOO stubborn! He just wants to sleep and Basil won’t let me in to see him!! And Aubrey’s on a trip.”

Hero nodded.

“Well, now I’m here, so… whaddya wanna do??”

Kel grinned.

“Can we play on the nintendo?? I haven’t had anyone to play Super Smash with.”

He paused.

“Not anyone good, anyway.”

Hero chuckled. “What do you mean by ‘not anyone good’?”

“I mean Basil.”

Hero laughed.

“Ah. Well. Prepare to be smashed, Kel.”

[lunarsilkscreen]

JavaScript Frameworks

Step 1) Polyfill

Most JS frameworks started from a need to create polyfills. A Polyfill is a js script that add features to JavaScript that you expect to be standard across all web browsers. Before the modern era; browsers lacked standardization for many different features between HTML/JS/and CSS (and still do a bit if you're on the bleeding edge of the W3 standards)

Polyfill was how you ensured certain functions were available AND worked the same between browsers.

JQuery is an early Polyfill tool with a lot of extra features added that makes JS quicker and easier to type, and is still in use in most every website to date. This is the core standard of frameworks these days, but many are unhappy with it due to performance reasons AND because plain JS has incorporated many features that were once unique to JQuery.

JQuery still edges out, because of the very small amount of typing used to write a JQuery app vs plain JS; which saves on time and bandwidth for small-scale applications.

Many other frameworks even use JQuery as a base library.

Step 2) Encapsulated DOM

Storing data on an element Node starts becoming an issue when you're dealing with multiple elements simultaneously, and need to store data as close as possible to the DOMNode you just grabbed from your HTML, and probably don't want to have to search for it again.

Encapsulation allows you to store your data in an object right next to your element so they're not so far apart.

HTML added the "data-attributes" feature, but that's more of "loading off the hard drive instead of the Memory" situation, where it's convenient, but slow if you need to do it multiple times.

Encapsulation also allows for promise style coding, and functional coding. I forgot the exact terminology used,but it's where your scripting is designed around calling many different functions back-to-back instead of manipulating variables and doing loops manually.

Step 3) Optimization

Many frameworks do a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to caching frequently used DOM calls, among other data tools, DOM traversal, and provides standardization for commonly used programming patterns so that you don't have to learn a new one Everytime you join a new project. (you will still have to learn a new one if you join a new project.)

These optimizations are to reduce reflowing/redrawing the page, and to reduce the plain JS calls that are performance reductive. A lot of these optimatizations done, however, I would suspect should just be built into the core JS engine.

(Yes I know it's vanilla JS, I don't know why plain is synonymous with Vanilla, but it feels weird to use vanilla instead of plain.)

Step 4) Custom Element and component development

This was a tool to put XML tags or custom HTML tags on Page that used specific rules to create controls that weren't inherent to the HTML standard. It also helped linked multiple input and other data components together so that the data is centrally located and easy to send from page to page or page to server.

Step 5) Back-end development

This actually started with frameworks like PHP, ASP, JSP, and eventually resulted in Node.JS. these were ways to dynamically generate a webpage on the server in order to host it to the user. (I have not seen a truly dynamic webpage to this day, however, and I suspect a lot of the optimization work is actually being lost simply by programmers being over reliant on frameworks doing the work for them. I have made this mistake. That's how I know.)

The backend then becomes disjointed from front-end development because of the multitude of different languages, hence Node.JS. which creates a way to do server-side scripting in the same JavaScript that front-end developers were more familiar with.

React.JS and Angular 2.0 are more of back end frameworks used to generate dynamic web-page without relying on the User environment to perform secure transactions.

Step 6) use "Framework" as a catch-all while meaning none of these;

Polyfill isn't really needed as much anymore unless your target demographic is an impoverished nation using hack-ware and windows 95 PCs. (And even then, they could possible install Linux which can use modern lightweight browsers...)

Encapsulation is still needed, as well as libraries that perform commonly used calculations and tasks, I would argue that libraries aren't going anywhere. I would also argue that some frameworks are just bloat ware.

One Framework I was researching ( I won't name names here) was simply a remapping of commands from a Canvas Context to an encapsulated element, and nothing more. There was literally more comments than code. And by more comments, I mean several pages of documentation per 3 lines of code.

Custom Components go hand in hand with encapsulation, but I suspect that there's a bit more than is necessary with these pieces of frameworks, especially on the front end. Tho... If it saves a lot of repetition, who am I to complain?

Back-end development is where things get hairy, everything communicates through HTTP and on the front end the AJAX interface. On the back end? There's two ways data is given, either through a non-html returning web call, *or* through functions that do a lot of heavy lifting for you already.

Which obfuscates how the data is used.

But I haven't really found a bad use of either method. But again; I suspect many things about performance impacts that I can't prove. Specifically because the tools in use are already widely accepted and used.

But since I'm a lightweight reductionist when it comes to coding. (Except when I'm not because use-cases exist) I can't help but think most every framework work, both front-end and Back-end suffers from a lot of bloat.

And that bloat makes it hard to select which framework would be the match for the project you're working on. And because of that; you could find yourself at the tail end of a development cycle realizing; You're going to have to maintain this as is, in the exact wrong solution that does not fit the scope of the project in anyway.

Well. That's what junior developers are for anyway...