#performance management future trends

[maxlearnmicrolearningplatform]

Is Microlearning the Future of Employee Training? Here’s What We Know!

Microlearning, a training methodology characterized by delivering content in short, focused bursts, is increasingly being recognized as a transformative approach in the realm of employee training. As the modern workplace continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements and changing employee expectations, microlearning emerges as a solution that addresses the need for agile, efficient, and engaging training methods. This article explores the potential of microlearning to shape the future of employee training, examining its benefits, applications, and challenges.

The Evolution of Employee Training

Traditional employee training programs often involve lengthy sessions, extensive manuals, and a one-size-fits-all approach. While comprehensive, these methods can be time-consuming, costly, and ineffective for the modern workforce, which values flexibility, personalization, and immediacy. Employees today are accustomed to accessing information quickly and efficiently, thanks to digital technologies. This shift in information consumption has paved the way for microlearning to gain prominence.

What is Microlearning?

Microlearning breaks down training content into bite-sized modules that can be easily consumed and retained. These modules can take various forms, including videos, infographics, podcasts, quizzes, and animations, typically lasting between 2 to 10 minutes. The goal is to deliver relevant, actionable information that employees can apply immediately, enhancing their skills and knowledge incrementally.

Benefits of Microlearning

Increased Engagement: Short, focused content is more engaging than lengthy training sessions. Employees are more likely to stay attentive and absorb the material when it’s presented in manageable chunks.

Flexibility and Accessibility: Microlearning modules can be accessed anytime, anywhere, using mobile devices or computers. This flexibility allows employees to learn at their own pace, fitting training into their busy schedules.

Improved Retention: Studies have shown that information retention is higher when learning is spaced out over time, rather than crammed into a single session. Microlearning’s structure supports this spaced learning approach, reinforcing knowledge and skills.

Cost-Effective: Developing microlearning content can be more cost-effective than traditional training programs. It reduces the need for in-person training sessions, travel expenses, and extensive training materials.

Personalization: Microlearning allows for more personalized training experiences. Employees can select modules that are relevant to their roles and career development, ensuring that the training is directly applicable to their needs.

Applications of Microlearning in Employee Training

Microlearning can be applied across various aspects of employee training, including:

Onboarding: New hires can benefit from microlearning modules that introduce company policies, culture, and job-specific information in a structured, digestible manner. This approach helps new employees acclimate faster and more effectively.

Compliance Training: Compliance topics often involve dense regulations and policies. Breaking down this information into microlearning modules makes it easier for employees to understand and adhere to compliance requirements.

Skill Development: Whether it’s soft skills like communication and leadership or technical skills like data analysis and software usage, microlearning can provide targeted training that enhances employee capabilities incrementally.

Product Training: Sales and customer service teams can use microlearning to stay updated on new product features, benefits, and usage. Short modules ensure they have the latest information to effectively support customers.

Performance Support: Microlearning can serve as just-in-time learning, providing employees with quick access to information they need to solve problems or perform tasks more efficiently.

Microlearning in Action: Case Studies

Several organizations have successfully implemented microlearning to enhance their training programs. For example:

Google: Google uses microlearning to train its employees on various topics, including new technologies, management skills, and company policies. Their approach includes short videos, quizzes, and interactive modules that employees can access on-demand.

IBM: IBM leverages microlearning to keep its workforce up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and industry trends. Their microlearning strategy includes bite-sized courses, podcasts, and gamified learning experiences.

Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola has implemented microlearning for its sales teams, providing short, focused training on product knowledge, sales techniques, and customer engagement strategies. This has helped improve sales performance and customer satisfaction.

Challenges of Microlearning

Despite its many benefits, microlearning also presents some challenges:

Content Development: Creating high-quality microlearning content requires careful planning and expertise. Organizations need to ensure that the content is engaging, relevant, and effectively designed to meet learning objectives.

Integration with Existing Systems: Integrating microlearning with existing learning management systems (LMS) and other training platforms can be complex. Organizations need to ensure seamless access and tracking of microlearning modules.

Consistency: With multiple microlearning modules, maintaining consistency in tone, style, and quality can be challenging. Organizations must establish guidelines to ensure uniformity across all content.

Measuring Effectiveness: Assessing the impact of microlearning on employee performance and knowledge retention can be difficult. Organizations need robust evaluation methods to measure the effectiveness of their microlearning initiatives.

The Future of Microlearning in Employee Training

As organizations continue to navigate the changing landscape of employee training, microlearning is poised to play a significant role in the future. Here are some trends and predictions for its evolution:

Increased Adoption: More organizations will adopt microlearning as part of their training strategies, recognizing its benefits in enhancing employee engagement and performance.

Advanced Technologies: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics will enable more personalized and adaptive microlearning experiences. These technologies can analyze employee performance data to recommend relevant modules and provide real-time feedback.

Gamification: Gamification elements, such as leaderboards, badges, and rewards, will be increasingly incorporated into microlearning to boost motivation and engagement.

Social Learning: Social learning features, such as discussion forums, peer reviews, and collaborative projects, will enhance the microlearning experience by fostering interaction and knowledge sharing among employees.

Focus on Soft Skills: With the growing importance of soft skills in the workplace, microlearning will increasingly focus on areas like communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence, providing employees with the tools to succeed in a dynamic work environment.

Conclusion

Microlearning represents a promising future for employee training, offering a flexible, engaging, and efficient approach to skill development and knowledge retention. As organizations seek to meet the evolving needs of their workforce, microlearning provides a solution that aligns with modern learning preferences and technological advancements. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of microlearning make it a compelling strategy for the future of employee training. By embracing microlearning, organizations can enhance their training programs, improve employee performance, and drive overall business success.

[techmarkethunter]

what is gift nifty?

Title: Unwrapping the Gift of Nifty: A Guide to Navigating the Stock Market Introduction: In the dynamic world of finance, the stock market stands out as a fascinating arena where investors can explore various opportunities. One such avenue that has gained immense popularity is trading in Nifty, a flagship index of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE). In this blog post, we’ll dive into…

[liveontelevision]

Demon Barber | Lucifer X Reader

IT'S DONNNEEEE

FuCk i slaved away on this one but y'all wanted a novel, so here she is!

Content Warning: Smutsmutsmutsmut +18, a little bit of angst and fluff, and Lucifer and Reader being kind of shitty people

☆☆☆

Everybody knew how much of an icon Queen Lillith was. She immediately blew up any form of media when she started uplifting demonkind. As time went on and more sinners were sent to Hell, a ripple effect of styles and trends rang throughout the city. It was important to Lillith to stay up to date with them. She hated to admit it, but she couldn’t keep up. She decided to take the opportunity to bring a new face to her team. At that point, the Morningstar family had already hired a handful of imps to keep little things in line, but this was a position that needed the point of view of a sinner on the streets.

Lucky you, you were one of the first sinners to work personally with the most powerful couple in Hell! You weren't that different from anyone else, but you are a chronic people watcher. It was an important hobby that helped you keep up with what everyone was decorating themselves with. A perfect pair of eyes for adorning the most beautiful creatures in the realm in a modern fashion. You started your glamorous job a couple of thousands of years before the Hotel was built. Even with your immense age, you did a surprisingly good job at keeping an open mind and becoming knowledgeable in most cosmetic and costuming work. You managed to make it through every extermination and more in this career. The protection from being housed with royalty definitely had its benefits.

On your first day, you went through Lillith's already existing wardrobe, in awe at the quality and unique aesthetics that she had. Even with your praises on her gowns, she insisted she needed your knowledge of street style incorporated into her wardrobe. You definitely fit into the Pride ring of hell at that point. The queen of Hell needs your personal opinion on what she wears? That went straight to your head. You became the head of a team and were credited with dressing up Lillith in some of her most iconic outfits. It didn't exactly bring you any fame, you weren't advertised or really credited in any other form than writing. Sometimes, if Lillith was put in an outfit she really enjoyed and her makeup and hair lasted through an entire performance, she'd give a little shout-out. You didn't really mind, you loved doing what you did, and the sweet praises Lillith gave you sufficed your need for validation. It felt amazing to see her face plastered all over Pentagram City, and being able to say hey, I did that. The salary helped, too.

As time went on, you noticed how little Lucifer made public appearances. When he did they were exclusively with Lillith at his side. And of course, he looked.. He was definitely a handsome ruler, but he didn’t have a lot of variety in his wardrobe. And it wasn't exactly up to your or Lillith's standards. She would often suggest taking some styling tips from you, almost begging at times, but he would refuse every time. You did little things, steaming and restitching his wardrobe, doing some touch-up makeup for shoots, but his suit? It stayed the same almost every day.

One day, Lucifer suddenly had a change of heart. He looked disheartened but begrudgingly agreed to be dolled up for a shoot that was happening soon. You were almost as ecstatic as Lillith was, getting this chance.

"I want you to give it your all, dear. Maybe I can convince him to do some more in the future if all goes well..." She'd tell you in a hushed tone, the two of you standing in front of the double doors that led to your studio." Do what you do best!" She said cheerfully, her hand on the small of your back. She practically throws you into the room once it's open, leaving you alone with Lucifer. There was no music, none of your other artists had shown up yet, and the only thing you could hear was your breath shaking. You breathed in heavily, then put on your best customer service face as you exhaled. You played professionally at the beginning, but it's always easier having some personality and small talk when you're planning on being in close proximity to clients for so long.

"Your Majesty! I hope you're doing well today, I'm glad you decided to join us this time!" You spoke in your people-pleaser voice, trying to hide the nerves that suddenly washed over your body. "Why the change of heart?" You started questioning, in a desperate attempt to find some sense of small talk with the intimidating figure seated in front of you. As you spoke, you stepped in front of the vanity he was seated at, having to stretch by his crossed legs to lay out your supplies. "I'm doing fantastic. Obviously." He spoke in an aggravated tone. You sucked in your lips, unsure if you should laugh. Luckily he didn't need a response before answering your other question. "You've seen Lily, she can be quite convincing." He puffed out his chest in his seated position, insinuating something vulgar. Your eye twitched, trying your best to not let them roll.

That didn't stop your face from heating up, the image suddenly materializing in your head. You cleared your throat, turning your attention back to the array of makeup brushes and some colored powders you had picked out specifically for this shoot." She is a beauty, I agree." You felt the need to respond in some way before getting to work.

You loved doing your job. No matter who you worked on, you'd always focus on your technique before anything else, which helped calm you down while you delicately held Lucifer's jaw, twisting his head around to get a general idea of what you were working with. You examined a solid purple bruise that decorated his neck before he had the chance to stop you. "Oh! I just - ran into a doorknob. Yeeah.. I.. tripped." He rambled a pathetic excuse, learning away from your touch." Sure, let's go with that." You replied, finally rolling your eyes at his words. "But you said it yourself, the Queen is indeed quite convincing." You teased, twisting around and grabbing a brush. When you went to move behind his chair to start running a comb through his impossibly soft golden hair, you caught how red he had turned at your remark." Oh, it's okay, I'm just teasing. You know how long I've worked on Lillith, I've had to cover way worse." You added, genuinely thinking that would help calm him down. He let out a quiet groan of embarrassment, smacking his hand against his face.

It went silent for a while as you worked on his hair. You saw how it usually was put up, and you didn’t want to scare him with too drastic of a change, so you only added some subtle layers that left it a bit fluffier than normal. You’d stop every now and then, placing your hands on his shoulders and looking at your work in the mirror. He'd flinch at your touch each time, leaving you concerned at first, then just giving him a suck it up attitude for the rest of your session. You went on to do something that didn't need your full attention and looked over his shoulder to get a peek at his phone screen that he used as a buffer for the awkward silence. It displayed a little calendar, he swiped through each day mindlessly. "Looks like you have a packed schedule, huh? How's that been going?" He looked up and pulled his phone into his lap, a squint across his face. "It's fine, I'm handling it. It's my job after all, ya know. Important things." He didn't seem to want to get into too much detail, so you let out a nervous chuckle and agreed before immediately finding some music to play to cover your mistake. You were convinced he would fire you at that point. Or worse.

As you finished up, you viewed him from multiple angles, twisting him around in the chair. You leaned down a bit, your eyes at his level then reached both your hands out and took the pieces of hair that framed his face, curling them up a bit at his cheeks. You stepped back again and placed your hands on your hips, letting out a satisfied hum.

He definitely calmed down by the time his hair was done, leaving behind the crude jokes and little rude quips from before. Now onto the makeup. This was far more intimate, so you gave him a quick rundown as you rummaged through your things." Alright, you definitely don't need any makeup, since your skin is perfect, but there's a chance the cameras and the lighting could wash you out, so I'll just use a blurring effect with this pow - " you stopped talking when you saw his confusion." I'm.. I'm gonna doll you up. Basically.." You summarized it bluntly. It was clear to you how uncomfortable he was with being touched excessively, you did your best to accommodate. You applied some translucent powders to his skin, then brightened up the cute little red circles on his face, after mentally kicking yourself for thinking of them as cute. This is the king of Hell, knock it off. You cleaned up the heavy bags under his eyes, then noticed a tired purple hue to his eyelids. Going in with a lilac color, you emphasized them.

As you were gathering some other things, stepping back a bit, he turned his head to look at his appearance in the mirror. He was expecting some ridiculous and dramatic work, but he really just looked brighter. More alert, more alive. He shut one of his eyes to see the color you had added to his lids, "I.. like that.." He spoke quietly and sounded surprised as if he didn't want to admit that to you. You let out a little chuckle, the compliment completely going to your head, before passively scolding him for touching his face before you had finished. He let his hands fall back into his lap with a pout on his face. Adding any color to his eyes or lips required precision, so you were lifting up his face by his chin to do what you do best. You were honestly a little surprised about how well he handled the rest of the session. For someone who's refused any sort of cosmetics for literal centuries, he looked like he was enjoying the pampering.

You had only worked on Lillith before, and even if she was intimidatingly gorgeous, you adapted to being physically close to her. Going into a sort of auto-pilot mode, you held your breath, tracing out his best features. Pulling away to check on his full appearance again, you noticed that he seemed to be holding his breath as well. He finally let it out once you stepped away, his face already a little flushed. You didn't think too much about it, you were mainly annoyed that the composition of the makeup was being thrown off by this sudden blush.

"Well! Once wardrobe comes in, you'll be taken down to set. What do you think?" You stood behind his chair and spun him back around to face the mirror. He leaned in, making sure not to touch his face since you scolded him before. He moved his head around, even admiring the coverage of the hickey that Lillith so generously gifted him." Hm! I suppose this works. As long as Lillith likes it, that is." His voice wasn’t enthusiastic, but you recognized the satisfaction plastered across his face. He looked up to meet your eyes in the reflection of the mirror. "She's right, you are good at what you do, I'll give you that." You gave a little nod and began to pack up your things. "I'm glad it's acceptable, your highness." You pulled up some finger quotes as you spoke the word acceptable. "You were really nice to work on actually, your hair looks great and your face is already near perfection, so I didn't need to do much. Plus, you sat very well." You spoke nonchalantly, compliments like that coming as second nature in this field.

You turned once more and bowed your head a bit before sending a smile his way. His eyes were wide, and it looked like he was struggling to stiffen a grin. He cleared his throat, covering his mouth with his fist and looking to the side. "G-Good.. Glad you enjoyed the.. Uh - Enjoyed it.." His voice muffled behind his hand. You didn't overthink his nervous reaction since you were in a hurry to get Lillith ready next. "Oh, for sure! I hope I see you around more often! I'm sure the shoot will be great." You chimed in, finally dipping out of the room as a crowd of imps barged in, finishing up his look.

The rest of the day was spent getting Lillith ready for the shoot, which took considerably longer than Lucifer's preparations. The whole time you chatted with her about how Lucifer did, calling her out on the damned bruise that you had to cover up, and general catch-up that had become routine at this point. Once everything was up and moving, you floated around the set fixing up some small details on both Lillith and Lucifer's look when needed. And of course, the shots they got were fantastic. You couldn't stop yourself from admiring your work once the posters and advertisements were distributed.

That was the first time you worked with Lucifer. Not much changed after, you became a little more popular around the staff; getting complimented on how you dressed him and answered some silly questions about what he was like. You did see him around more often, and you’d make small talk. After a few weeks, while working on Lillith, she brought up another shoot that was proposed for a big event coming up. "And get this! Lucifer asked me to put him in the shoot!" She was absolutely giddy to tell you the news. "Well, of course, he wants to be in the shoot, it's because I prettied him up so well!" You bragged in a joking tone, making Lillith let out a sultry chuckle. She placed her hand over yours, a sincere smile across her already-painted lips. "Thank you, dear. He needs the pampering sometimes." You blushed at the sudden contact and grinned in response.

---

Lucifer did in fact join that shoot. The process was about the same, but he seemed to engage in conversation more and asked more questions about what you were doing at each step. It warmed your heart to talk about your passions, you were unknowingly gushing about your interests every time he asked.

As the years went on, he joined more and more shoots, accompanied Lillith to more public appearances, and generally just wanted your opinions on his looks more often. It didn't take long for you two to become close. He'd ask for help on outfits, sometimes becoming a nervous wreck about what to wear on dates. With his wife. It was adorable the way he worried about how he looked after being with Lillith for so long and essentially running a new world together. He seemed to really enjoy having his hair and makeup done, occasionally making a fuss if you weren't the one to do it. You would scold him, talking about how he's wasting your time, and that you trained each of your stylists, so he has to trust them. He pouted the whole time.

Being around the power couple of the century unfortunately had its flaws. Like having to witness its downfall. Both of them became quieter a decade or two before Lillith's disappearance. Any time you'd try and tell a funny story about Lucifer to Lillith, she would change the topic almost immediately. On the opposite end, Lucifer wasn't supplying you with the same amount of jokes and puns as usual and reverted back to flinching at your touch. You couldn't ask about what was going on, that'd be rude.. Right?

"You know, Lillith was just talking about some sort of Gala for the Sins, are you going with her?" You had some hidden intentions by bringing this up while you were fixing Lucifer up for his day. "A Gala, huh? Haven't heard anything about that, so - I guess not!" He blurted out, clearly irritated. Shit. " Are.. Are you okay? Is something going on?" You leaned against the back of the vanity, stopping what you were doing to give him your full attention." Well, if you want to talk about it, that is.. Aaand as long as I won't get in trouble by asking." You shrugged and crossed your arms over your chest. That happened once or twice, but it was for little things; spoiling an anniversary gift one time, or accidentally getting an imp fired when you were venting about workplace struggles. "Yeah, of course it's okay! We're fine. It's fine. I'm fine! Stop asking so many questions!" He got increasingly aggressive as he spoke, you threw your hands up, stepping away and returning to the back of his chair. "Okay, okay! I believe you, jeez!" You responded to it as a joke, hoping you could recover.

You didn't talk about it after that, lifting his mood a bit by asking about his projects and other little things. As you finished up his hair, you noticed him closing his eyes and leaning his head into your hands as you ran your fingers through his hair to coat it with some kind of styling product. He'd fallen asleep in the past, so you didn't worry about it too much. You went on to work on his makeup. He asked you recently if you wouldn’t mind coming up with a more subtle everyday look for him. Apparently he just really liked your work. Or, he needed the pampering. Either way, you couldn't refuse.

He was loving the treatment today. He would hum every time you used your thumb to brush a speck off his cheek, and would start leaning forward when you stopped touching him. You pushed him back by his chest mindlessly, just needing him to sit back in his chair.

You then started to apply makeup to his eyes. Covering the bags underneath them became increasingly difficult throughout the years. You pulled him in like usual, your hand lightly leading his head up towards your face. When you paused at some point to evaluate whatever you were doing, he suddenly opened his eyes, his gaze meeting yours, then flashing a quick peak at your bust that had been accentuated by your stance. He leaned back, a nervous look on his face.

"Um, hello?? I was kind of in the middle of something! That’s it. Tell me what’s wrong." You scoffed, confusion and irritation plastered across your face. He quickly dismissed it, letting you work again. He could feel your shallow breathing fan across his face as you went on. His breath was picking up, heart rate elevating as you kept this proximity. The leather on the armrests of his chair squeaked as he gripped his claws into the fabric.

After a while, you silently leaned back, only now noticing him falling apart. He leaned in slightly, dropping his jaw to let out a shaky breath. He would've hit your face if you hadn't stepped away. Possibly even met your lips.

"Uh – Your higness..?" You were oblivious, so you decided to question this behavior. He popped his eyes open and immediately leaned back into his chair." A-Are you done yet?" He squeaked out, examining the damage he had done to your chair with a nervous chuckle. "I'll uh.. I'll get you a new chair." He muttered, before looking into the mirror for just a moment. "Looks good to me! Excellent job as usual, my dear, I better get going, I have a meeting to get to so – " You watched in silent confusion, seeing him squirming and screwing up his words. He quickly stood up, not assessing how close he would be to you and how close your back was to the vanity. You stumbled backward, placing your hands on the vanity to keep yourself from falling any farther, and acting as a buffer between the counter and Lucifer. He tripped over your stumbling feet, his flailing arms landing beside yours. You were effectively trapped, his knee had bent between your legs while trying to find his balance.

A moment of silence. All you heard was the beating of your heart ringing in your ears. He looked down at you in a way that clouded your judgment. Neither of you said anything, but you fluttered your eyes shut subconsciously. He did the same, then cocked his head to the side and slowly lean into your face. He roped his arm around your waist, pulling you forward a bit, but not quite flush to his chest. Yet. You felt his shaky breath fanning over your lips, before snapping back into reality. "No! Nope - " You quickly broke free of his arms and began cleaning up your things, avoiding his gaze as it followed you frantically getting your things together. "You have a meeting, right? I just finished up, so you should be all good now! I'll just – I-I'll see you around! Have a good day, sir!" You quickly left the room, not letting him get a single word in. He reached out to you as you left as if that would suddenly draw you back towards him, but of course, it did nothing. "Well, shit." He let out bluntly, waiting for a moment in your own studio before b-lining it back to his office.

What the fuck was that?

You avoided Lucifer after the incident, and he seemed to respect that. He let one of your stylists do his daily pampering, knowing that stopping that routine would cause too much suspicion. He didn't enjoy it as much, but stopping altogether would make Lillith ask about it. Fuck. Lillith. A flood of emotions wash over you. In reality, you were closer to Lillith than her husband. You two gossiped and chatted on the daily. It was a struggle to face her after this, but what choice did you have? 

She was completely silent during her last few sessions, so you drowned out your guilty thoughts with music. She disappeared a few years after that. You absolutely panicked. So did many of the staff members, but your sole concern was if it was your fault. You were quick to find Lucifer after the announcement was made, only to see him in your studio, running his hands across the rack of gowns that Lillith had left. "Lucifer. What happened? Where did she go? What did she say?" You rambled approaching him, but being careful not to get too close. "She didn't say anything. She left a half-assed note, and she's just.. Gone." He pulled a dress into his arms and gripped it tightly before letting it drop to the floor. He let out a vicious roar, throwing the rack to the side." How could she do this?! What about the kingdom? What about Charlie? Dammit.. What did I do?? We slept next to each other that night.. The same night she left… I-I could’ve stopped her, I should've - She just disappeared..!" He rambled on, quickly unraveling in front of you. You watched his tail and horns start to form, and you hesitantly gripped his shoulder. He finally stopped, taking a deep breath before turning to face you. He hadn't looked into your eyes since..

His horns shrunk back into his temples before he let his head fall onto your shoulder. You almost stepped away, but.. He needed this. And you needed answers. "Sir.. Was it because.. Did she leave because of me..?" You spoke softly, your breath a cool sensation against his heated skin. He quickly shot up, planting his hands on your shoulders and looking at you with a stern expression. "No! No, I promise it wasn't your fault. Fuck, none of that was your fault. She.. I-I'm not sure why she left, but that's not your burden to bear." He spoke calmly, a stark contrast to the raging mess he just displayed moments ago. 

You two stood there for a while, his hands drifted down to hold your arms. What was he supposed to do now? He looked around the room for some kind of answer. Before he could realize what was happening, he was pulled into a tight embrace, his head just barely reaching the top of your shoulder. "It's gonna be okay.. I’ll be here, Lucifer. No matter what." It felt.. weird for a moment. This was the first time you'd gotten close to him this way. And actually, the first time you'd said his name without any sort of title. He let out another exhausted sigh, his hands snaking around your back and accepting the much-needed affection. As his head pressed against your collarbone, you stood there until he decided he’d had enough. You were there for a while.

It wasn't Lucifer's fault, but after that, you didn’t work much. There really wasn't a lot to do, without someone pushing public appearances and emphasizing the importance of image, you generally just mended and fixed up the staff's uniforms and Lucifer’s wardrobe. You were technically a stylist, but you've been doing this long enough that you could handle these jobs entirely by yourself. Actually, you did handle the job by yourself. Lucifer fired or sent most of the previously employed stylists away, along with most of the staff. About five years into Lillith's disappearance, the place had widdled down to a handful of workers. Some in the kitchen, basic housekeeping, a noisy secretary to answer some calls, and you. You started to question why he kept you around. You hated to admit that you still blamed yourself for Lillith leaving, but why else would she suddenly disappear? She was cold to you as soon as you kissed – almost kissed – Lucifer that day. You tried your hardest to avoid that thought process since you stuck around the mansion.

You were surprised to find out that Lucifer accepted an invitation to be on the cover of a magazine for Helluva Times. He hadn't needed makeup or hair done since Lillith left, and in reality, you barely saw him around. You were ashamed about how excited you were to see him again. Of course, it won't be the same as before, but you were looking forward to it nonetheless. You were taken to the studio where the shoot was being held since the one in the mansion was turned into more of a workspace for mending clothing. The studio was brightly lit and bustled with imps and some stylish sinners doing their part. You wondered if It was always like this, or if it was just because of Lucifer. You approached the vanity, the king of Hell seated in a movie set chair, with a golden star on the back, his name embroidered to the center. You were stopped in your tracks when you saw the dark circles that surrounded his eyes. Jesus, he was exhausted. You weren’t exactly surprised, more like distressed. Now that you think about it, Lillith really did a lot of heavy lifting when it came to keeping Hell in line.

"Your Highness." You gave him a little smile and nodded your head, beginning to display your usual setup on the vanity in front of him. "Heyyy! You..! Good to see you, Ahha.. ha.. h-how've you been..? How's... work been..?" He put on a fake smile and propped his head on his hand in a sad attempt to act casual. He switched to crossing his arms, unable to sit still and make eye contact with you at the same time. You didn't know how to react. The last time he was this nervous, he ended up pinning you to a table with his arms around you. You quickly got to work, trying to get the image of that day out of your head.

You go to comb his hair, recognizing that it's been a while since he let anyone tend to it; it was nearly grown to the bottom of his neck and wasn't exactly the cleanest. "Do you have wrinkle-free, clean, clothes every day?" You asked in response to his nervous ramblings from earlier. He nodded slowly," Then work is fine." You picked up on the sudden attitude you had, and it even surprised you. He quickly shut his mouth and started to spin the wedding band on his finger as a nervous fidget.

You had to put some effort in since he wasn't getting the same attention he used to. You gave his golden locks some much-needed attention, running a number of products through them and taking the time to restore it to its usual length. You found yourself peaking at his face every now and then, which he didn't notice. He was too indulgent to even keep his eyes open. You tried to stop yourself from looking at his relaxed expression, but you found yourself turning away only when he opened his eyes. You checked the clock, you definitely had some time for a more thorough session. You dug your fingers just a bit deeper into his hair, lightly running your nails across his scalp. In several swirling motions, you had him melting in your hands. You had to stop every now and then and push his head back up after it lulled to the side. It usually kept him alert for a moment, but it never lasted long. He let out a subtle hum every now and then, making you bite your lip in some attempt to keep whatever you were feeling at bay.

After you finished your little massage, you quickly finished up his hair, giving him a very-needed trim and styling it to its usual glory. You instinctively placed your hands on his shoulders once you finished and leaned in a bit to look at the results.

"So? What do you think? You needed a haircut, sir, you should… keep in touch.. If you need me, I'm here." A grin grew on your face and he couldn’t help but sigh at the sight of your smiling face. He turned his head to the left and the right, reaching up to touch his face delicately. He was less worried about messing it up and more worried about you scolding him for it. He let out a little huff and he opened his mouth, with no words coming out. It took him a moment." It's great, but uhh.. Could you do the – " He spun his fingers around his cheeks," you know, the.. Little loopy.. Bits..?"

God, what a cutie.

You let out a little chuckle and nodded, turning his chair to face you." My bad, how could I forget the loopy bits?" You teased, reaching out to either side of his head. Your hands lulled over his cheeks for some reason you wouldn’t explain. Finally, you untucked the bits of hair from behind his ears, pulling them forward and twirling them with your fingers. You placed your hands on your hips, still bent to be at his eye level.

"There. Ready for makeup, Lucifer?" Your words didn't come naturally, it took you a few seconds to debate whether or not to call him by his name. With his voice cracking in an attempt to respond, he just nodded, attempting to keep some dignity intact. You did your best to act professional, despite his lovely reactions. You started as you usually did, applying an easy base and highlighting his rosy cheeks. You never needed to do much to his face, and even after all this time, you still didn’t need to. Must be his angelic abilities, that his skin never really changes. You shrugged off the thought, getting ready to focus on his eyes. Instead of keeping his chin up, you took a light hold of his jaw, your fingers grazing his neck and your thumb placed dangerously close to the side of his lips. You both reacted to this new method, but you quickly went to work to prevent any more eye contact.

You took your time and it was clear neither of you cared to bring it up. He was past his call time, but when some poor stylist working for the news team came in to get him, Lucifer used his threatening status to give you both more time. After you finished covering the dark rings surrounding his eyes and prettying them up a bit, you mirrored your other hand and essentially cupped his cheeks. You did your best to make it look like it was for work purposes, but damn you were enjoying this. Such a beautiful creature in the palm of your hands, looking away because he was too embarrassed to meet your eyes." Look forward, please?" You spoke softly, lightly tapping his cheek to get him to follow your commands. He let out a huff, then finally prepared himself to look into your eyes. The noisy workers coming in and out of the room suddenly disappeared, the room going silent. He had your complete focus, and suddenly there was nothing more important than gazing into his red eyes. His hand moved to your wrist, holding one of your hands in place while he pressed his cheek against your palm. What a sight. You leaned in, not knowing what would happen, but also not really caring. Any chance to get close to –

"Alright your Highness, we're gonna need you on set in five." The harsh sounds of the room suddenly returned, a Hellhound making a more stern request to get this shoot over with. You quickly stood straight, taking up a brush and fixing up the small smudges you had created by holding him. "Rrright! Yup, pretty sure we're almost done, sooo... I'll be right there..! Thanks." He clenched his pointed teeth, as he thanked the brute, who walked off with a scoff. "Good golly – I'm their king! What gives that mutt the right to – " He stopped his rambling once he saw your sheer embarrassment. He took it as a sign that he went too far, that just maybe, he read you wrong.

He turned his head, looking back to his reflection and tracing his little curls with his fingers before letting out a satisfied hum. "Great work as always, my dear." He stood from the chair, stretching his stiff legs with a groan." I should uhm – I'm gonna get going, I have to.. Do the.. Thing – with the thing.." He walked backward towards the exit, pointing over his shoulder. "You mean go to set and get the shots? Hope everything goes okay, sir." You chuckled, going back to cleaning some things up. "Okay, well – oh! Thank you! Right, forgot that part. So, thanks..!" He just kept talking. Like he might never see you again once he left the room. "My pleasure, Lucifer." You hummed, still attending to your tasks. Oh, you should’ve seen the winded look on his face. He let out a wheezing chuckle, tripped over himself, then finally left the studio.

Once all your things were neatly tucked away, you were invited to the shoot. They had an extensive team of people behind the scenes, so you got the chance to just observe the process. They had him run through a number of poses, some regal, some more.. Provocative. Just for fun, they said. It made you cringe, it definitely wasn't his style. Finally deciding on a composition, he had his arms crossed over his chest, and he rested his thumb just below his chin, drawing your eye to his devilish smirk. How could someone who's been hurt as badly as he has, smile for the cover of a magazine?

You made some mental notes on his makeup and his hair, which they squished down with a comically oversized tophat. Trying to keep your mind purely professional became increasingly difficult when he kept looking over at you, his smile twitching every time. He must be tired. That’s clearly why he's acting this way.

"All right, we got it! Wrap it up, people!" An aggressive shout took you away from your phone screen, and you looked around at the rush of workers. You tried to catch anyone's attention to see if you could help with anything, but you never got anyone's attention. It was definitely a change of pace from your past experience, considering you were the lead on a team that really only dressed two people, even if they were royalty. By the time you got back to the studio, it was basically cleaned out, other than your little cart with all the supplies you brought from home. You assumed you were good to go straight home and find something to do other than feeling up the king of Hell; speak of the devil!

"Oh! I.. didn't know you were still here, I thought you left..?" A soft, and mildly raspy, voice came from the door, making you catch Lucifer's eyes in the reflection of the vanity you stood in front of. "No, I was enjoying the show." You leaned against the tabletop after turning to face him, a little smirk on your face. "You did good, by the way. The shots came out really well." You pulled up some of the shots that the company sent to your phone. "These are some very handsome photos.. You're welcome, by the way." You were gloating. He had walked forward to get a better look at your phone screen, squinting his eyes like he needed glasses, despite it being impossible for him to have poor vision. He scoffed at your comment, crossing his arms over his chest. "Well don't let it go straight to your head, dear, you didn't do all the work. I'm just naturally gorgeous, right? You used to say that all the time." He nodded his head to either side as he spoke like he was winning some argument.

"Well, I meant it and it's still true. So, don't let that get to your head." You responded like you were trying to one-up him. He immediately turned red. He can shoot his shots, but deflates at any quick or clever rebuttals." W-Well! I'll try not to.. T-thanks for being here. Not like, here, but like – helping with the shoot, and doing meee – my hair! Love my hair, came out great." Good job, Lucifer. You startled him by running your hands through his locks, attempting to fix up the mess they made by putting a heavy hat on him." Ugh, they ruined it.. It should be an easy fix, I guess... that stupid hat." You grumbled, running your hands along the sides of his head to smooth it out. He was biting his lip when you sent him a quick look." I-I like the hat..." He said weakly. You couldn’t help but let out a little laugh, beginning to pull your hands away. Clawed hands took hold of your wrists, keeping them hovered on either side of his face. "You said... that you'd be there for me no matter what. Do you remember that..?" He relaxed his face, but his hands were shaking just a bit. You nodded slowly.” Well, I’m - I appreciate that.. And you.. I-I appreciate you..”

“If you still.. I don't know, it's been a few years since – but if you still wanted to.. Ugh, dammit..! I don't know how to – " He stuttered over his words, becoming visibly upset, something stopping him from speaking coherently. You couldn't assume he was talking about the little incident from years ago, but if it was still on your mind after all that time, maybe it was still on his. He stepped forward just a bit, his grasp still lightly holding your wrists, keeping him close to you. Waiting for you to respond to a question he never really asked, he gulped, then let out a breathy, fuck it. In one fell swoop, he released your hands and immediately pulled you into a tight embrace. This wasn't like before, this wasn't to console him. His hands were wrapped around your back and cradled the base of your neck, leaving no space between the two of you.

Your entire body tensed, the breath you didn’t realize you were holding in was knocked out of you, and your arms were stuck with your hands pressed against his chest. He loosened his grasp as soon as he held you, but never actually let you go. His head had sunk into your shoulder, trying to hide some kind of adorable expression, you were sure. You had the opportunity to push him away, nothing was truly keeping you there. Physically, at least.

As you stood still, deciding what your next move would be, you'd feel him adjusting his head and turning it to plant his cheek on your collarbone, his breath hot against your chest. You knew he had to feel how hard and fast your heart was beating with how he was nuzzling into you. Focusing on one thing at a time, you tugged your arm out of his hold and lifted his face upwards, at least preventing him from being too close to your rapid heart rate. The next problem was your noses almost touching due to how close you were. His eyes were wide, full of some sort of desperation or fear, and a little bit of excitement. Your fingers still lightly hovered under his chin, and you could feel his pulse. Just as fast as yours, maybe even faster.

You felt him gulp, his face now heating up. Maybe the look in your eyes was too much for him to handle. You looked at the vanity that was just a few feet away. That should make him understand. Taking small steps backwards, which he didn’t understand, but also didn’t question, you kept moving until you felt the table hit your back. You leaned back slowly, forcing him to brace himself against the table to keep his balance. His eyes darted around as it clicked finally. You had put yourself in the same position that you were in years ago. His hands caged you in, and his knee sat between your legs for stability. You remembered it so clearly, you had no trouble bringing the two of you right back to where you left off. You took one of his arms and guided it to support you by the small of your back, then snaked your arms around his shoulders. Then, you closed your eyes and just waited. Just sitting there, anticipation bubbling in your stomach.

Before you knew it, he had softly pressed his lips against yours. You jumped at first, startled by something you were waiting so patiently for. You felt his lips pull away in response, but you were quick to pull his shoulders in, closing the gap again. He let out a little cry against your lips, as you pulled him even closer by wrapping your arms around his neck. He kept one hand at your back and sent the other to your outer thigh, slightly lifting your leg to sit against his hip. With a more secure hold on you, he leaned forward further, until you felt the back of your head hit the mirror with a light thump. "Mmph! Are you okay?" He pulled away for a moment to ask, which only upset you even more. You looked at him as if the answer was obvious, and fisted the collar of his shirt, pulling your lips back together. Clearly, you were fine.

Becoming intoxicated by your lips, he practically begged for a more intimate kiss. He placed a hand on your chin, pulling your mouth ajar with his thumb and quickly entering his tongue in your mouth. The sudden motion left you muttering incoherent praises onto his lips. He pulled away, leaving you in a daze. Once you regained your focus, you were able to reassess your situation. You had slid down the entirety of the vanity, your back fully against the cold material of the counter. One of his hands were propping himself up directly above you, the other still holding your leg, and keeping you from moving away as he pulled you impossibly closer. While letting you catch your breath, he sent a few kisses down your jaw and neck, making you grip his shoulders and hold your breath. He pulled himself away after pressing another quick peck on your lips. "Hey. Breathe. I'll take care of you, don't worry - " How dare he. How could he act so flustered when you did his hair and applied his makeup for literal centuries, then tell you to calm down? You scoffed and smashed your lips back against his, mainly to shut him up, but he wasn’t complaining.

He let out a little yelp against your lips, struggling to keep up with your sudden change of pace. Running your hands through his hair, ruining all the hard work you put into it, you lightly tugged at the hair at the nape of his neck. A shakey sigh met your lips, as you took control of the situation, taking the opportunity to explore his mouth with your own tongue.

After this went on for what felt like forever, which you didn’t really mind, you pulled away to breathe. Looking up to him, your eyes explored the lipstick that messily covered his lips. You tipped his head upward by his chin forcing him to look at himself in the vanity's mirror. He let out a pathetic little wheeze, looking back down at you with a suddenly confident smirk." Beautiful work as always, my dear." He spoke flirtatiously, "You missed a spot, though." Dipping his head back downwards and indulging in your warm presence for as long as he could.

You were clawing at his back, untucking his shirt as you struggled to keep a hold of him. Both your legs had spread, making your hips flush against his. He kept you close, as he nipped and kissed across your collarbone, his sharp teeth grazing your skin without hesitation.

Sucking on the softest part of your neck, you let out a breathy moan and arched your back into his chest. The sudden motion sent friction to his lower half, making him release his teeth and suddenly bolt upwards. The reaction made you nervous, "I-I don't - I haven't.. It's been… Awhile.." He stammered out, putting an emphasis on the word awhile." I know, It's okay." He winced at your nonchalant remark, remembering how often you witnessed his last relationship essentially fall apart, as you went back to kissing his neck. He gently pulled himself away. "Nono, it's been awhile- awhile… I hadn't been close with.. anyone… for a couple.. Decades..?" He spoke nervously like he was embarrassed to admit it. You sat up for a moment, making him question whether or not he should've said anything." But.. It's only been five years, right?" You weren't sure if this was the best time to be getting into this, but these are answers you’ve been wanting for years.

"I don't know what happened, sweetheart, but we lost what we had long before any of this. I'm sorry if you thought.. I can't have you take on that burden.. Okay?" He cupped your face, shifting to a more tender approach. You tried piecing things together in your mind, which was still cloudy from the past few hours. Of course, that still doesn’t make what you two did right. Of course, you blamed yourself after all this time. He pulled you out of your thoughts, by tucking a bit of hair behind your ear and keeping his tender hold on your cheek. You couldn’t help but smile and nuzzle your face into his hand.

"We can stop if you want, love." Oh how you wanted to say stop. To say that you were terrible people for even feeling this way after all this time, while he was with his wife. Who also happened to be your employer. How scandalous. "No, I want this." You said without a hint of hesitation in your voice. It shocked him a bit, but he didn’t have much time to react before you leaned forward, unbuttoning his coat and pushing it off his shoulders. You pulled him in by his collar again, continuing to remove his vest, then opening his shirt, letting it hang open loosely, his white skin just barely peeking out. He shrugged comically, before going back to working on your neck, pulling at the hem of your blouse that had already fallen to your shoulders.

He ran his hands along your curves, eliciting a shiver down your spine. You reached your hands into his open shirt, your warm hands trailing across his even warmer chest. Your physical pleasure was subdued for a moment, absolutely in awe. "You have beautiful skin, Lucifer." Your voice was breathy, he lulled his head to the side, melting at your words and intimate touch. After a moment he let out a sweet chuckle and shrugged his top completely off. "So I've been told." Implying your constant praises from before, he puffed his chest out.

Oh, he was loving this. You sat up, your legs just at the edge of the countertop as you arched your back into him, closing the gap between your hips. You started by pressing a little kiss on his cheek, his face heating up even after all he's done to you. You then, moved your way down to work your lips across his neck and collarbone. Gently tracing his spine with one hand the other traveled downward as you pulled his hips into yours. Messaging his hip and continuously running your fingers along the center of his back, you sent him into sensory overload. You weren't surprised by the sudden bulge you felt hitting your center, in fact, you reveled how that confirmed you were doing a good job. You began sucking and biting on the skin, stopping to let out breathy mewls into his ear. The massaging of his hip turned into you pulling him in, then pushing him away slightly, only to viciously repeat the motion, forcing him to start grinding against you. Your hand on his back continued to trail up and down his spine, only you started to drag your nails across his skin as well, digging in a bit harder whenever you heard his voice hitch. You let your fingers slip into his pants every now and then, the cool sensation of your hands making him let out a little whimper.

"Your skin really is perfect, Lucifer. You are entirely beautiful. You're absolutely stunning, my king." You hummed into his ear, your skilled hands continuing to drive him crazy. He could barely keep up, his head falling back whenever you'd reach up to run your fingers through his hair. "K-Kiss me.." You heard him almost whisper, making you pull back for a moment to assess his stature. He had his hands on your hips, to keep you close, but also to keep him standing on his swaying feet. "I-I need you to.. kiss me.. Please.." He spoke in choppy sentences, he was too lost in his own pleasure to keep his head up, so you kept it forward by cradling the back of his head. When his head would start to droop too far forward, you gave his hair a light tug to remind him where he was. Did he need permission? You enjoyed the 180 he had made from the flirtatious tease just moments ago, humming in thought and tapping your chin like you were still deciding. Like you were considering not kissing him as passionately as he could handle.

He was lightly grinding his hard-on into you but still seemed patient enough to wait for your answer. "Well.. Since you said please." You finally said after far too long. He let out a sigh of relief as you inched towards him. You left your lips just over his, only letting him feel your heated breath against his lips. He shifted his stance but never moved towards you. You brushed your lips against his, not locking them together, just barely grazing them. He let out an impatient groan, his eyes clenched shut as you teased him so cruelly. Who knew this is what would bring tears to his eyes? You ran your hands up his chest, then dug your nails into him as you went back down. You finally met his lips, deciding he had enough after you wiped away a tear from his watering eyes. You don't know how he still managed to keep the kiss so tender after acting so desperate beforehand. You continuously wiped the tears off his face, keeping your hands on his face and caressing his cheeks with your thumbs. As you pulled away, he followed your lips, disappointed in the sudden disconnect. He took the silence and the look on your face as a sign, that he needs to tell you what he wants.

He dropped to his knees, the warmth you had sitting between your legs was hit with the cool air of the room as he did. He kept his hands off of you and himself but fiddled with his thumbs to keep them busy in some way. He took in a deep breath, before speaking quickly," Can I taste you?" His voice was embarrassingly loud like he was just waiting and waiting to finally say it. It sort of shocked you, you assumed he’d be nervous after admitting he hadn't done this in a while. You pulled your legs together, finally feeling how wet you were becoming, but needing to commit to the bit. You crossed your ankles to furth prevent access. "I suppose so.. But what do you saay?" you reached down and tapped the tip of his nose, as you dragged out your words like you were speaking to a child. "Please..! I need to touch you, please.." He quickly replied, with no hesitation at all. "Good boy." That was it for you.

You realized you sealed your fate, as you felt him take a hold on your knees and pull them back apart gently. He moved forward until he could rest his head on your plush thigh, which he did for a while. He lifted your skirt up to your waist, then took a moment to appreciate the view. You were finally becoming a bit embarrassed, attempting to close your legs instinctively, but he pushed your legs farther apart, keeping a tight hold onto your thighs. When he looked up at you, his eyes were wide and innocent, as if he wasn’t keeping your legs apart and wiggling his hips to give some much-needed friction to his own growing problems.

He blinked, then looked back down, trailing his clawed finger across your wet underwear. You covered the sounds you were making with the back of your hand, still struggling to keep your legs open for him. He bent his finger and pressed it deeply into your still-clothed entrance. The sensation of the fabric digging into you made you groan, but that didn’t affect him at all. He licked his lips and began gathering spit in his mouth and he pushed your legs back in place, keeping them apart this time. Running his forked tongue across your panties, you squirmed under his touch. As he lapped at the fabric, the heat from his breath and the wetness he was coating you with caused you to fall back onto your forearms. "L-Lucifer - " You said weakly, quickly drawing his attention. "This is cruel." You pouted, continuing to let out a little whimper as he kept running two of his fingers across your underwear.

He cocked his head to the side as if he didn’t understand the damage he was doing. He was playing dumb." Oh? I'm sorry, love, how should I touch you then?" He was way too calm for your liking. He let one of his fingers just graze the hem, only touching a bit of your skin. You let out an annoyed groan, and move your underwear to the side, guiding the tip of his finger to your entrance. With your hand holding his wrist, you pushed his fingers inside of you, a strange sensation to say the least. It was embarrassing. He noticed your discomfort and finally dropped the act, sending you a sweet smile and kissing your thigh before starting to pump his fingers inside of you.

You let out a sultry moan, a mixture of relief and pure pleasure finally hitting you as you felt him add another finger without any real warning. You lulled your head back, not able to see his absolute focus on matching the rhythm of his fingers to the circling of your clit. Before you could fully comprehend, he pulled his hands away and back onto your thighs, delving into your center with a heated, open-mouthed kiss. Letting out a gasp, he delved into your folds, his tongue easily slipping from your entrance and back up to your clit. He lifted a hand to continue to slowly rub his thumb in small circles, so he could focus his tongue on thrusting in and out of your entreance with ease.

He showed no sign of faltering as you bucked into his face, desperate for more of him. Your hands moved to his hair, taking a tight hold as he hit right where he was supposed to. He scrunched his face, letting out a low growl as you yanked at his scalp, the vibrations startling you in a wonderful way. He only sped up when you started to babble about being close, letting your thighs tighten around his face as you finish into his lips. He continues his rapid pace, the adrenaline from being squeezed by your shaky legs taking over. You finally pulled his head away from you after the pleasure of overstimulation started to ache in your core. You sunk backward, your body twitching on occasion.

He planted a kiss on your thigh before rising back to his feet. He leaned into you, the fabric over his groin coated in your juices the longer he pressed in. He pecked your temple, looking at you, completely unphased." Too much? How did I do..?" He seemed genuinely interested in whether or not he did a good job." Y-you did.. Great.. It was g-good.. Felt good.." You gave a pathetic thumbs up as you caught your breath." W-what happened to the whole it's been a while thing? Fuck, Lucifer." You sat up finally seeing that he split the fabric of your underwear at some point to gain better access." Guess I've still got it." He said with a smirk, waggling his eyebrows at you. You couldn’t take him seriously. Your wetness and lipstick stained his mouth, the eyeliner you had applied had ran down his cheeks and rubbed under his eyes. Not to mention, he was covered in your marks. It's fine you can cover those, you thought. Even with his sudden burst of dominance, you took pride in the fact that this was all because of you. He was all yours.

☆☆☆

If you're curious, that one is pushing 10k words ;)

(Tagging some people who might appreciate it) @saints-wrapped-in-plastic @bat-boness @christineblood

[theterribletenno]

Aight I'm about to do something.

I'm going to define the generations of Warframe based on broad design principles and trends and I bet a bunch of people are gonna get their panties in a bunch over minutiae. I guess to prevent unnecessary "um actually"-ism in the notes I'll preface with

A. This is based on personal opinion and is not meant to be interpreted as provable or disprovable fact. B. There will be outliers in every generation that buck trends and you don't need to point them all out.

G1 the Classic warframes. Being functionally prototypes of an un-finished and un-proven game the first generation of warframes had a lot to prove and not a lot to lean on. Generation one has rather limited mechanics and setups (some of which have been remedied post-release with reworks). Most generation one frames were very formulaic and laid the foundation for future warframe design;

First ability: Basic damage "bolt" attack. Second ability: An escalation of the basic bolt, usually with higher damage and wider range. (May be replaced by a second special tactics ability) Third ability: Special tactics ability, often for defense or support, has the most variety of functions. Fourth ability: Global nuke (or exalted weapon if you're fancy).

G1.5 the Iteration warframes. Generation 1.5 was more varied than the originals, with some frames being continuations of the original formula but almost all of them adding novel mechanics to the game.

G2 the Exploration warframes. More consistent and bolder exploration of new mechanics and playstyles than the previous frames, going beyond iterating on formula and incorporating novel elements to more than just one or two abilities, the first generation of true experimentation.

G3 the Complete warframes. What sets this era of warframe design apart form others is the "completeness" of their kits, by which I mean no skill is divisible from the whole, they all work in conjunction to create a wholly unique playstyle. These interconnected and self-contained ability sets make these warframes exceptional in both the short and long term. Excalibur Umbra is something of an outlier in this generation and sort of belongs in his own category separate from both original and prime frames.

G4 the Style warframes. These warframes were mechanically a step backwards from the third generation, due to having overall shallower and less interconnected abilities. This is not to say that these warframes are bad or insufficient. While some of these frames prioritized aesthetic over performance they are overall successful and some manage to incorporate new novel mechanics and tools which were either not previously conceived or otherwise possible with old architecture.

G5 the Saturation warframes. This most recent generation is rather perplexing, seeming to run hot and cold. Lessons from all previous generations seem to be present, although not all are equally successful. With members that imitate the classics, dabble in iteration and experimentation, and attempt to capture both completeness and style in their visual and mechanical design. What can be said about this generation, unfortunately, is that while it attempts to tread new ground most of its members cannot avoid being compared to older warframes occupying the same niche and may be ultimately redundant. This may be in part due to the game's age and not necessarily a condemnation of the new frames' design.

[nomacam]

Embracing Hyunjin: A Tribute to Stray Kids' Charismatic Performer

Hyunjin, a rising star in the world of K-pop, has captured the hearts of fans around the globe with his charismatic charm, mesmerizing vocals, and impressive dance moves. As a member of the popular boy group Stray Kids, Hyunjin has proven himself to be a versatile performer, capable of tackling a variety of musical styles with ease.

One of the things that sets Hyunjin apart is his unique sense of style and fashion. Whether he's rocking a casual streetwear look or a sleek, tailored suit, Hyunjin always manages to turn heads with his impeccable sense of style. His fashion choices are a true reflection of his personality – bold, confident, and always on-trend.

But it's not just his fashion sense that makes Hyunjin stand out – it's also his incredible talent as a performer. With his smooth vocals and flawless dance moves, Hyunjin has quickly become known as one of the standout performers in Stray Kids. Whether he's singing a heartfelt ballad or delivering a powerful rap verse, Hyunjin always brings a level of passion and emotion to his performances that is truly captivating.

Beyond his talent as a performer, Hyunjin is also known for his warm and engaging personality. He has a knack for connecting with fans on a personal level, often sharing glimpses of his life and personality through social media and variety show appearances. His genuine and down-to-earth nature has endeared him to fans of all ages, making him a beloved figure in the K-pop world.

In addition to his work with Stray Kids, Hyunjin has also pursued solo endeavors, further showcasing his versatility as an artist. Whether he's collaborating with other artists or exploring new musical styles, Hyunjin always brings his unique flair and energy to everything he does.

As fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for Hyunjin, one thing is certain – his talent, charisma, and passion for music will continue to shine brightly, inspiring fans and fellow artists alike. With his star on the rise, Hyunjin is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars in the world of K-pop, and it's clear that his journey is only just beginning.

[stcpidcupid]

NEW DANCE ⸺ other known as DANCE ALL NIGHT ⸺, is the third english single released digitally on september 5th by MIGHTY DEVIL's STUPID CUPID. despite the song being completely sung in english, the girls promoted on MCOUNTDOWN for almost 2 weeks, as well as various american shows, such as GOOD MORNING AMERICA, THE TONIGHT SHOW and others.

track list.

NEW DANCE ( DANCE ALL NIGHT )

NEW DANCE ( DANCE ALL NIGHT INST. )

era notes.

this era started a bit bad for the group, as someone uploaded a snippet of the song on youtube, claiming that NEW DANCE was first shown during BARBIE premiere's AFTER-PARTY. the op claimed one of their celebrity friends sent them the snippet, which they decided to upload on youtube a day before the single would be released, angering the fans who claimed the op was not an actual CHERUB.

MIGHTY DEVIL refused to say anything and kept silent until they dropped the single. fans also noticed that the company hasn't released any teasers whatsoever, except the first one that was posted on twitter. other than that terrible start, STUPID CUPID achieved much more than what they expected!

the group was invited to perform on GMA, which was their first feature on such a show! they also performed on THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JIMMY FALLON, which the girls say they had a blast and so much fun being featured on such a show like that.

just like during ILYMORE, CHESKA helped in producing the song, while TOMIE & VIVA helped in creating the choreography! fans are happy to see the girls have creative freedom, as they barely had that ever since they debuted.

many claimed the mv for NEW DANCE is one of the most fun ones STUPID CUPID ever released. it was simple, yet it showed how much enjoyment the girls had filming it. it had slight moods of y2k and retro, which brought something fresh to the mv!

during one of the encore stages, VIVA once again went viral, but this time during one of her verses, other members crept up behind her and started tickling her. her giggles were then cropped and posted on twitter, which were reposted so much, that the hashtag #VIVAGIGGLES became no. 2 on the trending searches!

their tiktok was FULL of other idols doing the #NEWDANCE_CHALLENGE, and half of them were the ones CHERUBS never saw interacting with the girls, but were glad the members decided to open up and approach more people!

as for the hair colours in this era, CHESKA went orange, AIMEE kept her strands black, TOMIE dyed it platinum blonde, JEANNE went towards red, and VIVA shocked everyone by going SILVER!

STUPID CUPID received two wins during this era, which was unexpected because it was only an english single, yet fans managed to surprise themselves despite being the ones voting for them!

NEW DANCE was confirmed to be only an english release, yet fans can't help but beg for a korean version and possibly for it to be included in the group's future release!

twitter reactions.

many of the responses were positive; however, there would be one or two hate comments, which were buried with STCP fancams relatively quickly.

some of the CHERUBS never expected the group to release a single such as this, but were not complaining because it only showed that STCP can do every concept people throw at them!

these are only some reactions from the CHERUB twitter:

era style.

[scandeniall]

front page baby! pt.2

aka: your relationship is exposed. Tried my hand at ushijima and my 2nd try at bokuto so it’s probably so ooc but thank you for the love on pt.1

not edited im sorry (not really)

Ushijima, Bokuto x famous(implied musician)!reader

Ushijima: Twitter thread about you sharing clothes

You both are pretty private about your personal lives. Whenever you’d be asked about a relationship status you’d dance around the question with a joke and pretty smile. Ushijima on the other hand simply would never acknowledge any questions surrounding dating. He learned from his mistake early on of trying to “let the fans in” where he gave one trait he looked for in a partner and started getting shipped and spammed with so many ideal folks. You’d managed to keep your relationship a secret for a little over a year before all hell broke loose. What started as a joke thread noticing you two had similar tastes led folks down the rabbit hole of pulling all the times the two of you shared clothes, accessories to even discovering the two of you followed one another’s suspected private accounts (and one another’s best friend). His favorite T-shirt had been spotted on you. A random thrifted top you’d shown off on Instagram live worn by him. The flannel with a little hole right in the exact same spot. A ring of his worn on the chain of your necklace. Seemingly matching bracelets. Your lucky hair tie showing through mesh in his gym bag—fans cracked the code. The two of you were together when the thread which has garnered 50k retweets came across your TL. It was supposed to be a peaceful Sunday and you both basked in the rare free time together. “Toshi, look—“ a slight frown on your face as you handed him your phone. Your legs rested across his lap and the hand he’d had tracing shapes on your knee stopped as he hummed in acknowledgment.

“Are you kinda annoyed like I am?” Your huff caused a soft smile to grace his face. The shake of his head leaves you confused.

“Im not happy but now we can go out together”

Bokuto: Photos of a private moment leaked

Now this isn’t so much a relationship reveal with Bokuto but rather your engagement is leaked. A photos of the proposal to be specific. The two of you had publicly been together around 3 years, and privately for an additional 2. The first hint was after an MSBY appearance where the question who was likely to get married first was asked. Hinata and Atsumu joked that Bokuto was well on his way. Everyone thought the bashful look and laugh was just him agreeing about his desire to have a future and a lifetime with you. There were a few grainy pictures that had shown you with a suspected ring on your finger. However no one knew for sure as you’d managed to either hide it by partially stuffing your hands in your pockets or by taking it off for performances. The two of you were apart when the news broke. You’d come out from dinner with a few industry friends when a crowd had gathered outside, shooting pics and firing questions. One particular question stood out and nearly caused you to fumble into the SUV. “(Y/N) how long have you and Koutarou been engaged!” On your way back to your hotel you’d seen the leaked photos. Bokuto on his knee, you standing in shock. The massive hug and passionate kiss and your heart broke. This was the one thing both you and Bokuto had wanted to keep private. You’d allowed the world into so much of your lives and just wanted this one thing to yourselves and those closest to you. And that moment you thought had been so intimate ruined.

He’s just getting out of practice doing a quick Twitter check when he sees your names trending and subsequently the pictures. Now he doesn’t get upset easily but he knows what the two of you decided and is fuming. He’s slamming lockers and rushing out the gym without saying his usual goodbyes before he’s in the privacy of his car and tinted windows calling you. He knows the time difference meant it was pretty late for you but also knew you even better. This would be eating at you

“Baby I’m so sorry. I don't know how this happened. I thought I planned it out so perfectly that we would be alone and—“

“It’s ok Kou” your sigh cut him off and he wanted nothing more than to cross oceans to be with you right then and there. Showering you in so much love and apologies.

“It’s not. I know how much this meant to us. This shouldn’t have happened.” He’s not even sure what to say. There’s no way either of you could change what happened. It’s out in the universe now. “I love you and we’ll be ok”

Before long he’s cheered you up enough to get you to even consider falling asleep. He’s listened to your ramble about dinner and crack so many jokes he could feel his previous anger melt away. After a dozen ‘I love you’s’ later he letting you go to sleep. You wake up the next day to a few tweets by your fiancé.

“We share so much of our lives, but leaking out engagement has been one of the biggest breaches of our privacy. To whoever did it—I hope the petty change was worth it”

“I love you,” with your first photo together attached

[hypocrite-human]

AI & IT'S IMPACT

Unleashing the Power: The Impact of AI Across Industries and Future Frontiers

Artificial Intelligence (AI), once confined to the realm of science fiction, has rapidly become a transformative force across diverse industries. Its influence is reshaping the landscape of how businesses operate, innovate, and interact with their stakeholders. As we navigate the current impact of AI and peer into the future, it's evident that the capabilities of this technology are poised to reach unprecedented heights.

1. Healthcare:

In the healthcare sector, AI is a game-changer, revolutionizing diagnostics, treatment plans, and patient care. Machine learning algorithms analyze vast datasets to identify patterns, aiding in early disease detection. AI-driven robotic surgery is enhancing precision, reducing recovery times, and minimizing risks. Personalized medicine, powered by AI, tailors treatments based on an individual's genetic makeup, optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

2. Finance:

AI is reshaping the financial industry by enhancing efficiency, risk management, and customer experiences. Algorithms analyze market trends, enabling quicker and more accurate investment decisions. Chatbots and virtual assistants powered by AI streamline customer interactions, providing real-time assistance. Fraud detection algorithms work tirelessly to identify suspicious activities, bolstering security measures in online transactions.

3. Manufacturing:

In manufacturing, AI is optimizing production processes through predictive maintenance and quality control. Smart factories leverage AI to monitor equipment health, reducing downtime by predicting potential failures. Robots and autonomous systems, guided by AI, enhance precision and efficiency in tasks ranging from assembly lines to logistics. This not only increases productivity but also contributes to safer working environments.

4. Education:

AI is reshaping the educational landscape by personalizing learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms use AI algorithms to tailor educational content to individual student needs, fostering better comprehension and engagement. AI-driven tools also assist educators in grading, administrative tasks, and provide insights into student performance, allowing for more effective teaching strategies.

5. Retail:

In the retail sector, AI is transforming customer experiences through personalized recommendations and efficient supply chain management. Recommendation engines analyze customer preferences, providing targeted product suggestions. AI-powered chatbots handle customer queries, offering real-time assistance. Inventory management is optimized through predictive analytics, reducing waste and ensuring products are readily available.

6. Future Frontiers:

A. Autonomous Vehicles: The future of transportation lies in AI-driven autonomous vehicles. From self-driving cars to automated drones, AI algorithms navigate and respond to dynamic environments, ensuring safer and more efficient transportation. This technology holds the promise of reducing accidents, alleviating traffic congestion, and redefining mobility.

B. Quantum Computing: As AI algorithms become more complex, the need for advanced computing capabilities grows. Quantucm omputing, with its ability to process vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds, holds the potential to revolutionize AI. This synergy could unlock new possibilities in solving complex problems, ranging from drug discovery to climate modeling.

C. AI in Creativity: AI is not limited to data-driven tasks; it's also making inroads into the realm of creativity. AI-generated art, music, and content are gaining recognition. Future developments may see AI collaborating with human creators, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in fields traditionally associated with human ingenuity.

In conclusion, the impact of AI across industries is profound and multifaceted. From enhancing efficiency and precision to revolutionizing how we approach complex challenges, AI is at the forefront of innovation. The future capabilities of AI hold the promise of even greater advancements, ushering in an era where the boundaries of what is achievable continue to expand. As businesses and industries continue to embrace and adapt to these transformative technologies, the synergy between human intelligence and artificial intelligence will undoubtedly shape a future defined by unprecedented possibilities.

[mephinomaly]

[TL] BIOHAZARD/Chapter 4

[ This post uses Ois~su ♪ ]

Kaoru: Why would we take part in an experiment that sounds like something a sci-fi movie villain would do…?

Tomoya: “If we are able to duplicate people, duplicate idols, there are many advantages.”

Hajime: “Fundamentally, one person can only do so much. They cannot be in multiple places at once or complete multiple jobs at the same time.”

Tomoya: “However, if we can create clones such as ourselves, it will become possible.”

Hajime: “For example, say there is a super idol with plenty of talent–”

Tomoya: “This idol will be able to simultaneously sing and dance on stage, star in a movie, take part in a gravure photoshoot, recount a funny story on a variety show—”

Hajime: “These examples, that would otherwise be impossible, become possible.”

Tomoya: “If the original person ages or perhaps even dies, the copy will still be able to perform to the best of its ability.”

Hajime: “24/7, 365 days a year!”

Tomoya: “They won’t get sick nor be able to complain.”

Rei: Riiight, I suppose that’s true.

Robots do not have human rights. You do not even need to pay them a salary, all you must do is cover the cost of manufacturing and maintaining.

To a manager, it is better than a real idol whose body can rapidly degrade.

Koga: That’s fuckin’ insane, man. ES is… Is ES heartless or somethin’?

Rei: Nay, Itsuki-kun would say that it is only human nature to want to bend the world around you for your own wishes.

Kaoru: Itsuki-kun? Isn’t that more of a Tenshouin-kun thing to say?

Rei: He has a surprisingly unique outlook on art. I’m his friend, so I would know.

Adonis: Fumu… Personally, I understand the overall concept, but I’m struggling to accept this.

This sort of technology is an extension of drawing AI. When there’s AI that is better than real humans with beating hearts, that can easily be mass produced—

What do we do then?

AI has been able to accomplish tasks in seconds compared to us, who could take a year or even a decade to do the same thing.

And that can all be done with a simple press of a button.

In the beginning, we will abhor these “monsters”.

There are no laws in place in regards to non-human entities, so they'll be regulated in the same manner drawing AI are, right?

But as time passes, and new laws are passed, when those sort of things become commonplace–

In that future, is there a place for us, real people?

Koga: Y-You alright, Adonis? Ain’t you bein’ unusually talkative?

Adonis: I’ve been thinking about AI technology since Yuuki showed it to me. I’m not good at thinking, so I’ve yet to come up with an answer.

Rei: Adonis-kun is a serious boy.

For me, if that is the current trend, I want to follow it. Whether you dislike it or not, you cannot prevent big trends such as that.

Even if we feel disgusted and consequently don’t participate in this experiment, these guys will just ask other idols to do it in our place.

Hajime: “Yep.”

Tomoya: “We don’t particularly need UNDEAD’s help.”

Koga: Oi! What are you tryna say, huh? Ain’t you suppose t’be actin’ cute?

Tomoya: “We are aware that our actions and words are uncharacteristic of the original Ra*bits members.”

Hajime: “We, at best, are 40% accurate to the original people.”

Tomoya: “Our external appearance have been the main focus, rather than the internal, such as speech and behaviour.”

Rei: You are using tricky phrases that is unusual for Ra*bits.

Hajime: “Yes. In order to accurately replicate the internals, that is to say, one’s mental state and personality, we need data from your brains.”

Tomoya: “And that is what we are requesting of you for this experiment.”

Hajime: “Now, we will install these devices to your heads, or more specifically, your brains.”

Tomoya: “Then, we will download as much data as we can from your brains, and use it to recreate you.”

Hajime: “We believe we are capable of reproducing the identical idols, both on the inside and the outside.”

Kaoru: A-are you going to suck out our brains? Isn’t that kinda gross?

Hajime: “Your wording is misleading.”

Tomoya: “We are only obtaining data, your physical and mental will not be damaged in the process.”

Hajime: “Of course, private information will be protected in accordance with the law.”

Kaoru: ...

Hajime: “Well, if you don’t want to, you can always refuse.”

Tomoya: “If you refuse, we will ask other idols, such as Ra*bits, to participate in your place.”

Hajime: “However, the experiment cannot be cancelled.”

Tomoya: “Until we are able to create the perfect AI idol, the AIIE project will not stop.”

Rei: ...

[ ☆ ]

Chapter 3

Chapter 5

[jujumin-translates]

Event | Act 3.5 Event - NEW ERA GARDEN | Chapter 2

*Contains spoilers for Act 12 - eternal moment*

Kazunari: Ah, “New Fleur Award Executive Committee” is trending.

Itaru: Never thought they’d suddenly start a video channel.

Kumon: Are they gonna announce what the new Fleur Award is?

Itaru: I think they’re still working on preparing that.

Banri: The stream’s about to start.

Yukio: “…”

Reni: “…”

Izumi: Ah, it’s Dad and Kamikizaka-san.

Tenma: It’s kind of weird seeing those two standing next to each other.

Yukio: “Welcome, everyone, to our official video channel. I’m Tachibana, a member of the New Fleur Award Executive Committee.”

Reni: “I’m Kamikizaka.”

Reni: “On this channel, we would like to share our efforts towards the new Fleur Award.”

Reni: “We will hold another formal stream in the future to explain the details of the new Fleur Award, so please wait for that.”

Reni: “To begin, we’ll start with showing you this short video.”

Izumi: Eh!? That’s a theater!?

Kumon: It’s under construction? As in, it’s brand new!?

Muku: That reminds me, I have seen some construction around Veludo Way lately!

Yuki: Oh, so they’re talking about that place.

Taichi: So it’s a theater for the new Fleur Award!?

Reni: “A new theater, complete with equipment for streaming, is being built for the new Fleur Award.”

Tasuku: They’re seriously even building a new theater…

Sakyo: And complete with streaming equipment, so does that mean the next Fleur Award will have the basis of being streamed online…?

Kazunari: I wonder if that was Yukio-san’s idea?

Izumi: Probably…

Izumi: (I heard that MANKAI’s theater was built based on Dad’s idea… I’m sure this is something he’d think of.)

Izumi: (I hope Kamikizaka-san isn’t struggling to deal with Dad’s recklessness again…)

Reni: “The seating and exterior are yet to be completed, and it’s expected to take some time before it can be officially opened, however…”

Reni: “The foundation for the stage has been completed.”

Reni: “Now, Tachibana will explain the schedule for the new performance, which is meant to be for the unveiling of the new theater and to test out the equipment.”

Yukio: “I would like to put on a performance and stream it as my return as a director in Japan next month on the foundations of the new theater, which will eventually be the stage for the beginning of the new Fleur Award.”

Taichi: EHH!?

Izumi: Dad’s return as a director!?

Yukio: “The streaming will be free of charge, as it will also serve as a test run for the streaming equipment.”

Yukio: “The contents and performers are a secret for now, but we hope you look forward to this festival project.”

Kumon: I wonder who’s gonna be performing?

Kazunari: Maybe the first-gen?

Banri: But next month? That seems like it’s pushin’ it for the schedule.

Tsumugi: I wonder if the preparations for this have been going on for some time now.

Sakyo: I wonder. Knowing Yukio-san, there’s a possibility it was just a spontaneous idea…

Izumi: (Whatever it is, I’m kind of excited to see Dad’s new work!)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Yukio: …And that’s that!

Kasumi: I see!

Hiro: …And that’s that?

Zen: …

Syu: …Haah.

Zen: How did you manage to get all of us together? It’s not a busy time of year for me, so I can handle it, but…

Kasumi: My job allowed me to write an exclusive feature article for “Spotlight” about this.

Yuzo: You were so reluctant to come last time, yet this time you were basically the first one here.

Kasumi: Quiet, you. Those were different circumstances.

Syu: And I thought popular actors often had strict schedules.

Hiro: If I’m told I’m gonna perform with the rest of the first-gen group on the stage for the new and important Fleur Award, I’m putting it first no matter what.

Hiro: If it was an issue with the higher-ups, I would’ve just gotten things adjusted. But what about you, Syu-san? Don’t you have your own theater company to worry about?

Syu: There was a younger person I had my eye on, so we had a meeting and I asked them to take over the role for next month’s performance. What about you, Reiji?

Reni: As a board member, it’s sort of something I have to take on.

Yukio: It seems like Yuzo is the only one who can easily participate.

Yuzo: You make it sound like I have nothing better to do!

Yukio: Thank you, everyone. It makes me really happy to be able to do theater together like this again.

Yuzo: So what are you gonna do with us now that we’re all here?

Hiro: Is it a rerun of an old performance?

Yukio: Fufu, I think you’ll all be surprised by this one. The new performance will be about… the Shinsengumi!

[ ⇠ Previous Part ] • [ Next Part ⇢ ]

[riley-coyotl]

Yesterday, Maple had a consult with an orthopedic surgeon in Chattanooga. It went very well! We were very happy with the vet hospital--their facility was excellent, and everyone we talked to there was kind, respectful, professional, and helpful. Maple, of course, was a very good girl and did wonderfully at the hospital! Ultimately I feel we received good news, and I left feeling encouraged and more confident in both medical management and surgical options for her hip dysplasia.

We mostly went there to discuss total hip replacement (THR) surgery for Maple. According to the surgeon, she is a good candidate for THR surgery, and it would be a reasonable choice for her, with the goal of eliminating pain and returning normal function to her hip(s) for the rest of her life. There is even a good chance she would regain function well enough and be pain free with only one hip being replaced.

We were also told that it is perfectly reasonable to wait and possibly get the surgery done in the future if we want to continue to try medical management first for now; the surgeon assured us that Maple’s age is not a factor that should prevent her from getting this surgery, not now nor when she is older. As he put it, “[dogs] don’t come with an expiration date.” He regularly does THR on older dogs and told us there is no reason that they cannot get and benefit from the surgery; just the other week he performed a THR on a giant schnauzer who was around Maple’s age, as well as another dog recently who was 14 years old. With Maple turning 12 later this year, it was a big relief to hear that there isn’t this big looming time limit on her being able to be helped with surgery.

(The surgeon did not particularly recommend FHO surgery for Maple, which is already in-line with how we felt about it, which is that it’s not the right choice for her case.)

That said, we also talked about medical management. In the surgeon’s opinion, at Maple’s current age and progression of arthritis in her hips, there is no reason for us to limit her activities at all—he does not think that she will really be able to do further damage/make her arthritis any worse than it already is. In his opinion, we should let Maple choose how she wants to limit herself and how much she wants to do. I am a little skeptical on that simply because Maple is a high drive dog who has a tendency to push through pain...however I feel like I can try to make informed judgment calls based on her pain levels (especially now that I know her issue is there,) and continue to do what I’ve always done throughout her life—be her sense of self-preservation for her. I am going to try to compromise with Maple—she can do what she wants as long as I don't see her struggling with pain. If she is noticeably having a hard time, she's gotta stop, and at least take a break.

So, especially since there is no reason we cannot choose surgery for her in the future if we decide that's best, our plan for now is to see if medical management (pain meds + supplements + physical therapy) can help Maple be pain-free and mobile enough to have good quality of life and continue to do the things she loves. We’re gonna see how it goes. I already see some improvement since starting her on gabapentin and omega 3s, and hopefully that trend continues. I hope she will be ok and continue to be able to be Maple to the fullest capacity. 🧡

[letsremotify]

What Future Trends in Software Engineering Can Be Shaped by C++

The direction of innovation and advancement in the broad field of software engineering is greatly impacted by programming languages. C++ is a well-known programming language that is very efficient, versatile, and has excellent performance. In terms of the future, C++ will have a significant influence on software engineering, setting trends and encouraging innovation in a variety of fields. 

In this blog, we'll look at three key areas where the shift to a dynamic future could be led by C++ developers.

1. High-Performance Computing (HPC) & Parallel Processing

Driving Scalability with Multithreading

Within high-performance computing (HPC), where managing large datasets and executing intricate algorithms in real time are critical tasks, C++ is still an essential tool. The fact that C++ supports multithreading and parallelism is becoming more and more important as parallel processing-oriented designs, like multicore CPUs and GPUs, become more commonplace.

Multithreading with C++

At the core of C++ lies robust support for multithreading, empowering developers to harness the full potential of modern hardware architectures. C++ developers adept in crafting multithreaded applications can architect scalable systems capable of efficiently tackling computationally intensive tasks.

C++ Empowering HPC Solutions

Developers may redefine efficiency and performance benchmarks in a variety of disciplines, from AI inference to financial modeling, by forging HPC solutions with C++ as their toolkit. Through the exploitation of C++'s low-level control and optimization tools, engineers are able to optimize hardware consumption and algorithmic efficiency while pushing the limits of processing capacity.

2. Embedded Systems & IoT

Real-Time Responsiveness Enabled

An ability to evaluate data and perform operations with low latency is required due to the widespread use of embedded systems, particularly in the quickly developing Internet of Things (IoT). With its special combination of system-level control, portability, and performance, C++ becomes the language of choice.

C++ for Embedded Development

C++ is well known for its near-to-hardware capabilities and effective memory management, which enable developers to create firmware and software that meet the demanding requirements of environments with limited resources and real-time responsiveness. C++ guarantees efficiency and dependability at all levels, whether powering autonomous cars or smart devices.

Securing IoT with C++

In the intricate web of IoT ecosystems, security is paramount. C++ emerges as a robust option, boasting strong type checking and emphasis on memory protection. By leveraging C++'s features, developers can fortify IoT devices against potential vulnerabilities, ensuring the integrity and safety of connected systems.

3. Gaming & VR Development

Pushing Immersive Experience Boundaries

In the dynamic domains of game development and virtual reality (VR), where performance and realism reign supreme, C++ remains the cornerstone. With its unparalleled speed and efficiency, C++ empowers developers to craft immersive worlds and captivating experiences that redefine the boundaries of reality.

Redefining VR Realities with C++

When it comes to virtual reality, where user immersion is crucial, C++ is essential for producing smooth experiences that take users to other worlds. The effectiveness of C++ is crucial for preserving high frame rates and preventing motion sickness, guaranteeing users a fluid and engaging VR experience across a range of applications.

C++ in Gaming Engines

C++ is used by top game engines like Unreal Engine and Unity because of its speed and versatility, which lets programmers build visually amazing graphics and seamless gameplay. Game developers can achieve previously unattainable levels of inventiveness and produce gaming experiences that are unmatched by utilizing C++'s capabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no denying C++'s ongoing significance as we go forward in the field of software engineering. C++ is the trend-setter and innovator in a variety of fields, including embedded devices, game development, and high-performance computing. C++ engineers emerge as the vanguards of technological growth, creating a world where possibilities are endless and invention has no boundaries because of its unmatched combination of performance, versatility, and control.

FAQs about Future Trends in Software Engineering Shaped by C++

How does C++ contribute to future trends in software engineering?

C++ remains foundational in software development, influencing trends like high-performance computing, game development, and system programming due to its efficiency and versatility.

Is C++ still relevant in modern software engineering practices?

Absolutely! C++ continues to be a cornerstone language, powering critical systems, frameworks, and applications across various industries, ensuring robustness and performance.

What advancements can we expect in C++ to shape future software engineering trends?

Future C++ developments may focus on enhancing parallel computing capabilities, improving interoperability with other languages, and optimizing for emerging hardware architectures, paving the way for cutting-edge software innovations.

[apptechbuilders]

Mobile App Maintenance and Support: Ensuring a Seamless User Experience

In today’s digital landscape, mobile applications have become an integral part of our lives. From social networking to e-commerce and productivity tools, mobile apps have transformed the way we communicate, work, and interact with the world. However, developing a successful mobile app is just the first step; to ensure its long-term success, regular maintenance and reliable support are crucial.

The Importance of Mobile App Maintenance

Mobile app maintenance refers to the process of updating, optimizing, and enhancing an application to meet changing user expectations, market trends, and technological advancements. It involves fixing bugs, addressing performance issues, and adding new features to keep the app relevant and engaging.

Regular maintenance is essential for several reasons:

1. Bug Fixes and Performance Optimization

No app is perfect, and bugs are an inevitable part of the development process. Regular maintenance allows developers to identify and fix these bugs promptly. This ensures that users have a smooth and seamless experience while using the app. Moreover, performance optimization helps in enhancing the app’s speed, responsiveness, and overall user satisfaction.

2. Compatibility with OS Updates

Operating system updates are released frequently, introducing new features and security patches. Mobile app maintenance ensures that your application remains compatible with the latest versions of operating systems, such as iOS and Android. Failure to update the app may lead to compatibility issues and a deteriorating user experience.

3. Security Enhancements

With the increasing number of cyber threats and data breaches, maintaining robust security measures is of paramount importance. Regular maintenance allows developers to identify vulnerabilities and apply necessary security patches, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or data leakage. This helps in building trust among users and safeguarding their sensitive information.

4. User Feedback and Feature Updates

Users provide valuable insights and feedback on the app’s performance, usability, and desired features. Mobile app maintenance enables developers to gather this feedback and make informed decisions regarding feature updates and improvements. By addressing user needs and expectations, you can enhance user engagement and increase user retention.

The Role of Mobile App Support

Mobile app support complements maintenance efforts by providing assistance and resolving user queries and concerns. Effective app support ensures a positive user experience and builds customer loyalty. Here are some key aspects of mobile app support:

1. Prompt Issue Resolution

Users may encounter technical issues, difficulties in navigating the app, or have questions about its functionality. A responsive support team can address these concerns promptly, providing solutions and guidance to users. This helps in reducing user frustration and ensures that they continue to use and recommend the app.

2. Help Desk and Documentation

A comprehensive help desk and well-documented resources, such as FAQs, tutorials, and user guides, can empower users to find answers to common questions on their own. This reduces the burden on the support team and enables users to troubleshoot minor issues independently, thereby improving their overall satisfaction with the app.

3. User Engagement and Feedback Management

App support channels provide an opportunity to engage with users, understand their needs, and gather feedback. Support agents can collect valuable insights about user preferences, pain points, and feature requests, which can inform future maintenance and development efforts. By actively listening to users and acting upon their feedback, you can foster a sense of community and loyalty among app users.

Conclusion

Mobile app maintenance and support are indispensable for ensuring the longevity and success of your application. Regular maintenance allows you to fix bugs, optimize performance, enhance security, and incorporate user feedback. Meanwhile, effective app support ensures prompt issue resolution, empowers users with self-help resources, and facilitates user engagement. By prioritizing these aspects, you can deliver a seamless user experience, build customer loyalty, and stay ahead in today’s competitive app market.

Source

[hccn-overseer]

Issue 20, 8/30/2023 - The Overseer

Issue Masterpost About the Overseer

Updates on the Incident

By Azure

Recently, there have been many developments in the Incident with DocM77, Grian and Scar. Here is all that has happened thus far:

Due to a prank Doc pulled on Grian and Mumbo, causing one of Mumbo's vault doors to be damaged, the latter joined forces with Grian and Scar, forming the Buttercups, as the flower is toxic to goats. Their headquarters was a hippie style campsite with a pet sniffer. Doc would later form an alliance with RenDog.

 Additionally, two individuals known as Poultry Man and HotGuy showed their support for Grian and Scar by putting thousands of chickens in the Perimeter. Doc would later push back by putting thousands of chickens in Grian’s base, and decorating Scarland with Dragon Eggs.

The Buttercups then began to make plans to get revenge, with Grian building a “Live Laugh Love” sign on the walls of the Perimeter, causing Doc to decorate Grian’s base with Dragon Eggs. Both parties began building robots in case a battle were to ensue, and Doc built flying TNT cannons shaped like butterflies. Pearl built a dragon out of the Dragon Eggs.

Ren and Doc ended up attempting to spy on a Buttercup meeting but were found out, causing the Bot Battle to take place. Doc won after the Buttercups’ Bot backfired and was unable to do substantial damage to Doc’s Bot. Ren and Doc then proceeded to activate the TNT cannons, and the Buttercups rushed to sabotage the machines. They were successful, with minimal damage caused.

Furthermore, Ren and Doc attempted to explode the Buttercups’ campsite, causing them to relocate into a new base located in a cherry tree. At this point, Grian made the decision to cover the Perimeter in grass, a feat requiring over two thousand blocks of grass and dirt. 

Many people have pointed out that the motivational quotes were set to play near the Perimeter, with phrases such as, “This is the Goat’s world, you just live in it,” and “To make our great goat leader proud, never forget to Grind, Optimize and Thrive.”

The process of covering the Perimeter took over twelve hours, as they decided to terraform the area in addition to covering it. They were able to recruit the help of Gem, Impulse, Etho, False, Joe Hills, and Iskall, making it one of the largest collaborative projects on the server in recent months.

The Perimeter now blends into the surrounding landscape, safe for the flagpole, aided by the terraforming and the added trees, supplied by Xisuma. Once their task was complete, the Buttercups disbanded, recognizing it as the climax to the Incident.

Doc has since uncovered the Perimeter, and is making plans to get revenge on the Buttercups and their accomplices.

Now onto other news under the cut!

This Week At The Overseer HQ: Interior Makeover and Volunteer Work

By Lydia

The Overseer Headquarters has recently undergone a new interior makeover, with brighter paints for the walls and a collection of retro-future style furniture in red, blue, green, yellow, orange, and purple for the sofas, chairs, tables, and lighting. The staff originally wanted to change the style of the office due to the Server’s players taking on a resurgence of a 1970s fashion trend, but had later revealed that the real reason for the makeover was simply a need for a more invigorating workspace. In order to renovate the inside of the office, a few of the staff members managed to land a spot on a television show on HGTV with a professional interior design team. They took the chance to imitate all of the clients they had previously seen on the show, with every small complaint being blown up to greater proportions for the sake of entertaining television. They also spent the majority of that time attempting to convince the beleaguered show staff to wait on them hand and foot with very little success.

After the television excursion, The Overseer staff has also been sending its members to perform volunteer work over the past several weeks. With the ongoing influx of new Citizens, a large portion of the staff members have been spending their daytime outside of the Newspaper Office at the Hermit Citizen Orientation Office. Our staff members have assisted the very small orientation team in printing Citizen I.D. cards, distributing maps of the Server, giving out Shulker boxes of starter supplies, assisting in customizing communication devices, and answering frequently asked questions about the Server’s customs and environment. These questions often cover rudimentary introductory questions, such as the status of keeping one’s inventory on upon death, the most populated biomes, an overview of the Server’s clubs and affiliations, whether the Server is welcoming or hostile towards hybrids, and whether the Citizen count is high enough to qualify as a village, town, or city. According to our staff, they have enjoyed all of the free catering of buffet breakfasts and an endless supply of donuts provided to all workers and volunteers of the Orientation Office. This is by far the most favorable perk of helping out. The worst part of the job is the paperwork, specifically because many new Citizens do not like to reveal their species to the office, and will often give a placeholder for the category. While this is understandable, it is very likely that the records show a significantly higher population of non-hybrid humans on the Server than there really are.

While this stint of volunteer work has been helpful to both new Citizens as well as the orientation services workers, the real reason that the staff of The Overseer has been present here is due to the requirement to perform 200 hours of community service, in addition to cleaning up the mess they had made in preparation for MCC. While Hermitcraft does not operate on having a department to handle misconduct and will not do so in the future, the majority of the shop owners in The Shopping District had come to the conclusion that The Overseer staff should compensate the Server for the disruptive and rampageous mess leading up to MCC. This had resulted in almost all of the shops in the district having their wares recklessly broken and workspaces cluttered and trashed. The Overseer staff had agreed to clean and volunteer on the condition that they all receive very high discounts at all of the shops that had been affected by the MCC carousing.

Due to the staff dividing their time doing administrative work outside of the office, the newspapers over the past few weeks have been noticeably thinner. Someone attempted to ask the rats to take over some of the articles for them to no avail, as the rats would rather spend their time ordering and eating pizza and playing cards with each other than fill in for the writers and editors of the newspaper. The cats, on the other hand, have been given automatic pet feeding bowls and water dispensers, as well as having a staff member come in every few days to clean their litter boxes. They have also figured out how to turn on the large printer in order to preserve their favorite sunning spot.

This month marks the fifth month that The Overseer has been an active organization, and next week, staff members state that they will be able to celebrate sitting at the “Big Kids Table” upon reaching their twenty-first issue. Our staff hopes that you have had a very entertaining and relaxing week and would like to thank everyone who has been supporting and reading the newspaper.

Affiliate Summaries

by Roo (Not Pearl)

GoodTimesWithScar: When not running a theme park, being a master door, or decreasing the local horse population from the skies (in disguise), Scar is well known to ordain horse marriages and divorces.

Grian: The realistic Mumbo has spread. Quick, become bird scientists.

Joe Hills: (McJoenalds) Joe Hills?

Pearlescentmoon: I hope I'm invited to Soup Group Saturday.

Weather Report

By Lydia

Temperatures are represented using Celsius. Sorry, Americans!

Wednesday: Temperatures will reach a high of 24 degrees and a low of 12 degrees. Skies will be stormy throughout the entire day and clear up during the early evening hours.

Thursday: Temperatures will reach a high of 40 degrees and a low of 31 degrees. Skies will be partly cloudy with high winds.

Friday: Temperatures will reach a high of 43 degrees and a low of 32 degrees. Skies will be clear throughout the day and evening.

Saturday: Temperatures will reach a high of 44 degrees and a low of 32 degrees. Skies will be mostly cloudy throughout the day but clear up during the afternoon.

Sunday: Temperatures will reach a high of 40 degrees and a low of 29 degrees. Skies will stay clear throughout the morning and become cloudy during the afternoon.

Monday: Temperatures will reach a high of 45 degrees and a low of 32 degrees. Skies will be clear throughout the entire day.

Tuesday: Temperatures will reach a high of 44 degrees and a low of 30 degrees. Skies will be rainy throughout most of the day.

Wednesday: Temperatures will reach a high of 42 degrees and a low of 28 degrees. Skies will be cloudy throughout the day with a high chance of scattered showers throughout the morning.

Astrology Corner: Haiku Scopes

By Corundumcat

Have you been feeling without guidance? Do you look at your birthday, look up your star sign, and wonder, “Will I feel like Haikuing?” “Am I going to embrace my inner Joe Hills?” Don’t worry, here at The Overseer, we can help you.*

Aries:

Single testament,  shall a relax, enjoy help in spite of the the

Taurus:

Freezing eventide then a ready, dry pen runs after the dolphin

Gemini:

Tedious fountain A mad, elephant sneers betrayed by the salt

Cancer:

Baking christmastide A british, cute lion stings into the turtle

Leo:

Semiarid leap A fallow, playful deer feeds under the giraffe

Virgo:

Ungroomed wintertime An old, keen crocodile flies in spite of the queen

Libra:

Snow-white aurora A little, fine biscuit feeds whilst watching the friend

Scorpio:

Covered eventide A big, intense shark waddles at the perfect salt

Sagittarius:

Glorious leaping An intimate, dry friend barks by the flamingo

Capricorn:

Wooded damp hillside A frightened, spruce rabbit looks in spite of the stone

Aquarius:

Breezy summertime A female, gorgeous deer stings enjoying the rat

Pisces: 

Magical winter A normal, loathsome rat sneers hippopotamus

All star signs:

Sandy dunes sand dunes A nocturnal dunes paddles at the perfect dunes

*Ignore how blatantly specific these are. Nothing bad will happen to you. 

Lost and Found

By Lydia

All of the following items have been brought to The Overseer staff’s office for safekeeping until they are claimed. If you recognize one of these items as yours, please visit us to receive your items, or contact us at lostandfound@thehermitnews.org*. Lost items will be sent to Twinkly Trash if not picked up after two weeks. Thank you! *Not a real email address.

Item 1: A french horn This french horn was found outside of Joe Hills’ pinball machine and appears to have been there for quite a long time. It was found covered in table salt.

Item 2: A box of refrigerator magnets This box contains magnets depicting various postage stamps from different locations around Canada and South America in no particular order. They appear to be newly made and were found in a small wooden box painted to look like a sunset.

Item 3: A hobby horse This hobby horse is made entirely out of wood, with the head carved in the style of a chess knight. It was found several blocks away from Cub’s museum and has various numbers and letters written on it, presumably those of chess board tiles.

Item 4: A rubber band ball This rubber band ball is quite large, with a diameter of 5 inches. The rubber bands vary in size and color and appear to have been accumulated over several months.

Item 5: An apron that says, “World’s Worst Cook” While we cannot speculate on who would accurately fit its description, this newly made apron was found hanging up near the entrance to The Shopping District. It is white with bold, black lettering in Comic Sans font.

Item 6: A series of colorful tote bags These bags were found near Gem’s Elven Village and depict various types of fruit drawn in a cartoon style over pastel backgrounds. They appear to be made only about a week and a half ago.

Item 7: Two Lime Shulker Boxes The first box contains dragon eggs painted to resemble dragon fruits. The second box contains several realistic cakes created and decorated in the style of life-sized dragon eggs. They are made in the flavor red velvet and vanilla ice cream. Both of their respective items are very nicely detailed.

Note: Lost items will be sent to Twinkly Trash Trade if not picked up after two weeks

Fun and Games

This week's fun and games are brought to you once again by Lydia and Azure!

Word Search and Crossword by Lydia

Brain Teasers by Azure

And that's all for this week! Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful week!

[michaelespositostatenisland]

Michael Esposito Staten Island: Innovative AI Solutions for Influencer Marketing in the Digital Age

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, influencer marketing has emerged as a powerful strategy for brands to connect with their target audience and drive engagement. With the rise of social media platforms, influencers have become key players in shaping consumer preferences and purchasing decisions. Michael Esposito Staten Island — Influence in the Digital Age exemplifies this trend, highlighting how digital influencers can significantly impact marketing strategies and outcomes. However, as the digital space becomes increasingly saturated with content, brands are turning to innovative AI solutions to enhance their influencer marketing efforts and stay ahead of the curve.

AI-Powered Influencer Discovery

One of the biggest challenges brands face in influencer marketing is finding the right influencers to collaborate with. Traditional methods of influencer discovery often involve manual research and outreach, which can be time-consuming and inefficient. However, AI-powered influencer discovery platforms leverage advanced algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data and identify influencers who are the best fit for a brand's target audience and campaign objectives. Michael Esposito Staten Island: An Influencer Marketer Extraordinaire, exemplifies how effective influencer collaboration can transform marketing strategies. By harnessing the power of AI, brands can streamline the influencer discovery process and identify high-potential collaborators with greater accuracy and efficiency.

Predictive Analytics for Campaign Optimization

Once influencers have been identified and partnerships established, brands can leverage AI-powered predictive analytics to optimize their influencer marketing campaigns. Predictive analytics algorithms analyze historical campaign data, audience demographics, and engagement metrics to forecast the performance of future campaigns. By leveraging these insights, brands can make data-driven decisions about content strategy, audience targeting, and campaign optimization, maximizing the impact of their influencer collaborations and driving measurable results.

AI-Driven Content Creation

Content creation is a critical component of influencer marketing campaigns, and AI is revolutionizing the way brands create and optimize content for maximum impact. AI-powered content creation tools can generate personalized, high-quality content at scale, helping brands maintain a consistent brand voice and aesthetic across their influencer collaborations. From automated image and video editing to natural language processing for caption generation, AI-driven content creation tools empower brands to create compelling, on-brand content that resonates with their target audience and drives engagement.

Sentiment Analysis for Brand Monitoring

Influencer marketing campaigns can have a significant impact on brand perception, and it's essential for brands to monitor and manage their online reputation effectively. AI-powered sentiment analysis tools analyze social media conversations and user-generated content to gauge public sentiment towards a brand or campaign. By tracking mentions, sentiment trends, and key themes, brands can quickly identify and address any potential issues or negative feedback, allowing them to proactively manage their brand reputation and maintain a positive online presence.

Automated Performance Reporting

Measuring the success of influencer marketing campaigns is crucial for determining ROI and informing future strategies. However, manual performance reporting can be time-consuming and prone to human error. AI-powered analytics platforms automate the process of performance reporting by aggregating data from multiple sources, analyzing key metrics, and generating comprehensive reports in real-time. By providing brands with actionable insights into campaign performance, audience engagement, and ROI, AI-driven analytics platforms enable brands to optimize their influencer marketing efforts and drive continuous improvement.

In conclusion, as influencer marketing continues to evolve in the digital age, brands must leverage innovative AI solutions to stay competitive and maximize the impact of their campaigns. From AI-powered influencer discovery and predictive analytics to automated content creation and sentiment analysis, AI is revolutionizing every aspect of influencer marketing, enabling brands to connect with their target audience more effectively and drive measurable results. By embracing these innovative AI solutions, brands can unlock the full potential of influencer marketing and achieve success in the digital era.