#pricing Azure artifacts pricing

[abhiramiabii]

Renting a Car in Trivandrum: A Comprehensive Guide

 Nestled in the southern tip of India, Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) is a city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. With its stunning beaches, historic temples, and vibrant culture, it offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. One of the best ways to explore this enchanting city is by renting a car. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about rent a car in Trivandrum.

Why Rent a Car in Trivandrum?

Convenience and Flexibility: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Trivandrum at your own pace. You can visit attractions that are off the beaten path, make spontaneous stops, and create a personalized itinerary without being tied to public transportation schedules.

Comfort: With the tropical climate of Kerala, having a private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable travel experience. You can travel in comfort regardless of the weather conditions.

Accessibility: Many of Trivandrum’s attractions, such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, and the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, are spread out across the city and its outskirts. Renting a car provides easy access to these places, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

Choosing the Right Car Rental Service

When it comes to renting a car in Trivandrum, you have several options to choose from. Here are some key factors to consider:

Reputation: Opt for a reputable car rental service with positive customer reviews. Look for companies that have a track record of providing well-maintained vehicles and excellent customer service.

Fleet Variety: Depending on your travel needs, you may require different types of vehicles. Ensure the rental service offers a variety of cars, from compact vehicles for solo travelers to SUVs for families or larger groups.

Pricing: Compare prices from different rental services to find a deal that fits your budget. Keep an eye out for hidden charges and ensure you understand the pricing structure, including any additional fees for insurance, fuel, or late returns.

Terms and Conditions: Carefully read the rental agreement’s terms and conditions. Pay attention to the mileage limit, fuel policy, and insurance coverage. Knowing these details can help avoid unexpected charges and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Top Attractions to Visit in Trivandrum

Once you have your rental car, here are some must-visit attractions in and around Trivandrum:

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: One of the richest temples in the world, this iconic temple is a marvel of Dravidian architecture. It’s dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a must-visit for its spiritual significance and stunning design.

Kovalam Beach: Just a short drive from the city center, Kovalam Beach is famous for its crescent-shaped coastline, golden sands, and azure waters. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seafood at beachside shacks.

Napier Museum and Zoo: Located in the heart of the city, the Napier Museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, bronze idols, and traditional Kerala ornaments. Adjacent to the museum is the Trivandrum Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals.

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: About 30 kilometers from Trivandrum, this sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. It’s home to a variety of flora and fauna, and you can enjoy activities like boating, trekking, and visiting the Neyyar Dam.

Ponmudi Hill Station: A scenic drive will take you to Ponmudi, a picturesque hill station known for its lush green hills, tea gardens, and trekking trails. It’s a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience

Book in Advance: To ensure you get the vehicle of your choice, it’s advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Check the Vehicle: Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and ensure it’s in good condition. Report any issues to the rental company to avoid being held responsible later.

Carry Necessary Documents: Always carry your driver’s license, rental agreement, and any other required documents while driving. Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations.

Emergency Contacts: Save the rental company’s emergency contact number in case of any issues during your trip.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Trivandrum is an excellent way to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With the right rental service, you can enjoy the convenience, comfort, and flexibility that a self-driven vehicle offers. So, gear up for an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures of Trivandrum.

[egypt-tours-gate]

Embark on a journey of sun, sea, and adventure with our Hurghada Day Tours, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration on the shores of the Red Sea. Begin your day with a thrilling snorkeling or diving excursion, exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Dive into crystal-clear waters to discover a world of underwater beauty, guided by experienced instructors who ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.

Afterward, relax on the pristine sandy beaches of Hurghada, soaking in the warm Egyptian sun and enjoying the tranquil ambiance of this coastal paradise. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the freshest catches of the day while overlooking the azure waters of the Red Sea.

Explore Hurghada's vibrant downtown area, where bustling markets offer an array of local crafts, spices, and souvenirs. Discover the city's cultural heritage at the Hurghada Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing the region's history and maritime traditions.

Whether you're exploring the desert landscape on a quad biking adventure or enjoying a sunset cruise along the Red Sea, our Hurghada Day Tours promise an exhilarating mix of relaxation and adventure, making it the perfect escape for a day of exploration and rejuvenation in Egypt's coastal paradise.

[shynim]

Navigating Trivandrum Beauty: A Guide to Self-Drive Cars in the Capital City

Welcome to the enchanting city of Trivandrum, where culture, history, and modernity converge in perfect harmony. Exploring this vibrant city becomes even more delightful when you have the freedom of a self-drive car at your disposal. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of self-drive cars in Trivandrum, uncovering the benefits, top destinations, and tips for an unforgettable journey.

1. **The Convenience of Self-Drive Cars:**

   Trivandrum, with its picturesque landscapes and diverse attractions, is best experienced at your own pace. Self-drive cars offer the convenience of exploring the city and its outskirts without relying on public transportation. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend escape or a tourist eager to discover hidden gems, a self-drive car provides the flexibility and freedom to tailor your itinerary.

**Top Destinations to Explore:**

Napier Museum and Zoo:* Begin your journey with a visit to the Napier Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of art and artifacts. The adjoining zoo adds a touch of wildlife to your cultural exploration.

Kovalam Beach:* A short drive from the city center, Kovalam is renowned for its golden sands and azure waters. Enjoy a relaxing day by the beach, indulge in water sports, or savor fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants.

Ponmudi:* For nature enthusiasts, a drive to Ponmudi promises lush greenery, winding roads, and a refreshing climate. The view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, making it a must-visit destination for a day trip.

3. **Choosing the Right Self-Drive Service:**

When selecting a self drive car rental Trivandrum , consider factors like vehicle variety, pricing, and customer reviews. Trusted providers ensure a seamless experience, offering well-maintained cars and transparent rental policies. Some popular options include Zoom car, Myles, and Revv, each providing a range of vehicles to suit your preferences.

4. **Navigating Trivandrum Unique Roads:**

   Trivandrum boasts a mix of bustling city streets and scenic, winding roads. Before embarking on your journey, familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and navigate through the city's unique traffic patterns. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

**Tips for a Memorable Self-Drive Experience:**

Plan Your Route:* Create a rough itinerary to cover the major attractions and scenic routes.

Local Cuisine Exploration:* Take advantage of your self-drive freedom to explore local eateries and savor authentic Kerala cuisine.

Photography Stops:* Trivandrum is dotted with photogenic spots. Keep your camera ready for spontaneous stops to capture the beauty around you.

Conclusion:

Embark on a self-drive adventure in Trivandrum, unlocking the city's wonders at your own pace. Whether you're cruising along the coastline or winding through the hills, the freedom of a self-drive car adds a layer of excitement to your exploration. Discover Trivandrum charm like never before – one scenic drive at a time. Happy driving!

[wise-journey]

São Tomé: An Enchanting Gem

Introduction

Welcome to São Tomé, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of São Tomé and Príncipe, an enchanting island nation in Central Africa. Get ready to experience a thrilling journey full of culture, gastronomy, and boundless adventures in this magical city.

When to Go

The best time to visit São Tomé is between June and September, when the weather is pleasant with minimal rainfall. The island's tropical climate ensures warm temperatures throughout the year, but remember, the rainy season from October to May might hinder your outdoor activities.

How to Get There

An adventure even in reaching, flights from major cities like Lisbon and Luanda will take you to São Tomé International Airport. From there, you can explore the city's marvels and plan your escapades.

Where to Stay

- For a touch of luxury, try the iconic Pestana São Tomé hotel offering stunning ocean views and impeccable service. - If you prefer a cozier setting, the Boutique Hotel Pico Mocambo provides a charming ambiance with its colonial architecture and personalized attention.

Culture

“Immerse yourself in São Tomé's rich cultural tapestry, a blend of Portuguese, African, and Creole influences.” - Explore the city's vibrant streets and be mesmerized by the locals' captivating dance performances, showcasing their African heritage. - Visit the National Museum to delve into the island's history and admire a collection of traditional artifacts and artworks.

Gastronomy

Indulge in the island's delectable cuisine, infused with flavors from Africa and Portugal. Savor fresh seafood dishes, such as calulu (a traditional fish stew) and camarão grelhado (grilled prawns), and don't forget to try the sweet treat, roça diabo, made from tropical fruits and caramelized sugar.

Activities

- Explore the untouched wilderness of Obo National Park, where lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and abundant wildlife await. - Dive into the azure waters of Praia das Conchas, a picturesque beach perfect for snorkeling and discovering vibrant coral reefs. - Embark on a thrilling hike up Pico Cão Grande, a towering volcanic plug that offers panoramic views of the island.

Sights and Tours

São Tomé City: Wander through the colorful streets and marvel at the colonial architecture that graces the cityscape. São Sebastião Museum: Visit this picturesque museum, housed in a former fort, and gain insights into the island's history. Lagoa Azul: Experience the majestic beauty of this stunning volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation.

Tips

- Embrace the local culture by learning a few basic Portuguese phrases - the locals will appreciate your effort! - Respect local customs and traditions. - Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as São Tomé's tropical climate can be intense. - Pack an insect repellent for outdoor activities.

Money

The local currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STD). We advise exchanging currency at official bureaus or banks. Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it's always helpful to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.

Nightlife

Although São Tomé may not have a bustling nightlife scene, there are local bars where you can sip on a refreshing caipirinha while listening to live music that fills the air, creating a lively atmosphere.

Transport

Rent a car or hire a local guide to fully explore the city. Taxis are also available, but agree on a price before starting your journey.

Shopping

Bring a piece of São Tomé home by exploring the local markets. Shop for colorful artwork, handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, and don't miss the chance to purchase the finest cocoa beans and delicious locally produced chocolates.

Conclusion

São Tomé is a captivating city that exudes a sense of adventure and exploration. From its rich cultural heritage to its tantalizing gastronomy and awe-inspiring landscapes, this vibrant city has something for every traveler. Let São Tomé work its magic on your soul, leaving you with unforgettable memories. Read the full article

[myconetted]

here's the prompt i used with claude. i think the WaPo estimate is still like 5-20x more than the MIT estimate and the price-based estimate.

Part 1

Write a formula for estimating the upper bound of energy usage of an LLM based on its pricing.

You will be given the price in terms of $/1 million input tokens and $/1 million output tokens

Express the final estimation formula in terms of variables

Be explicit about all assumptions

List any factors you are not including in the estimation formula

Model API pricing, per 1 million tokens:

GPT-4.1: $2.00 input, $8.00 output

GPT-4.1 mini: $0.40 input, $1.60 output

GPT-4.5: $75 input, $150 output

OpenAI o3: $10 input, $40 output

OpenAI o4-mini: $1.100 input, $4.400 output

GPT-4o: $5 input, $20 output

GPT-4o mini: $0.60 input, $2.40 output

Gemini 2.5 Flash Preview (without thinking): $0.15 input, $0.60 output

Gemini 2.5 Flash Preview (with thinking): $0.15 input, $3.50 output

Gemini 2.5 Pro Preview (<200k tokens, with thinking): $1.25 input, $10.00 output

Gemini 2.5 Pro Preview (>200k tokens, with thinking): $2.50 input, $15.00 output

Claude Opus 4: $15 input, $75 output

Claude Sonnet 4: $3 input, $15 output

Claude Haiku 3.5: $0.80 input, $4 output

Part 2

Now examine the energy estimates from these two sources.

UC Riverside: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2304.03271

MIT: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/05/20/1116327/ai-energy-usage-climate-footprint-big-tech

For each study, write an analysis that describes:

The equivalent formula for calculating model energy usage

The assumptions of the study

Assumptions not included in the study

A calculation for enabling apples-to-apples comparisons of the study's energy usage estimates

Do not speculate on the merits of each individual analysis.

Part 3

Now you may compare each of the analyses. Create an HTML artifact to help readers understand how three the different energy usage analyses cash out.

These are the official figures for hyperscaler PUE and WUE:

Azure - 1.18 PUE, 0.33 L/kWh WUE

Google - 1.10 PUE, ??? L/kWh WUE

Amazon - 1.15 PUE, 0.18 L/kWh WUE

Industry average - 1.58 PUE, 1.8 L/kWh WUE

can someone double check me and claude? i think this WaPo article (archive.is) claiming 0.14 kWh power usage and 0.519 L water usage for 100 words of output from chatgpt in 2023 is complete and utter fiction

they make this claim based on analysis by UC Riverside, but that paper is ballparking a more complex task at 0.004 kWh with GPT-3. so where the fuck is 0.14 kWh coming from???

[devopsengineer]

Azure artifacts pricing

Azure artifacts pricing Azure artifacts pricing New newspaper Azure artifacts pricing Pay-per-GB pricing and more Azure Artifacts updates Azure Artifacts is the one place for all of the packages, binaries, tools, and scripts your software team needs. It’s part of Azure DevOps, a suite of tools that helps teams plan, build, and ship software. For Microsoft Build 2019, we’re excited to announce…

[centuryberry]

@peachshadows / @terrible-leviathan Finally, I managed to crank out this chapter. Features: SD!Shadowpeach being desperate to keep their cubs and the universe conspiring against them.

No one knew why Emperor Wukong and Empress Macaque executed the Ivory Lady so brutally. She had committed no crime and hadn’t even presented herself to either of them during her time in the Celestial Realm. But she had offended them in some manner and paid the price.

Many whispered that the demon’s death had something to do with the Prince. He didn’t look so well after he briefly spoke with her, after all.

It must’ve been an attempted assassination, many guessed. And it must’ve been a close call too with how the entire palace hadn’t seen a hair or tail of the Prince ever since the incident. No servant was allowed into his quarters - not even to bring food. Nearly all of the servants mourned the Prince’s absence. He was well loved and well respected by the staff because of his considerate treatment towards all of them. He protected them from his parents’ wrath too.

There was no one to protect them now.

Unlike her older brother, Princess Xiaodan was sighted out of her rooms many times, but never out of either parent’s arms. They held her close and tight no matter how much she whined and wiggled as if she would disappear the instant they weren’t touching her.

When the confusion that followed after the Ivory Lady’s execution settled, the Emperor demanded certain treasures and texts to be gathered and destroyed. Many historians and celestials who clung onto traditions tried to fight back against the Monkey Emperor’s orders. Even the Brotherhood stepped forward, questioning Wukong’s unexpected decision to decimate priceless artifacts.

But then, the Emperor and Empress brought Azure, Peng, and Yellow Tusk in for a private meeting. They came out of it completely shaken. Whatever the rulers told them changed their minds completely about the matter. Azure Lion personally saw to it that the artifacts and texts were all gathered and destroyed.

What in the world did the Ivory Lady do? Many could only wonder and speculate.

All of these whispers reached Macaque’s six ears, of course. He’d usually laugh at how nonsensical and outlandish the rumors were. But not this time. Not when the truth was even more unbelievable.

And frightening.

Another world. Macaque could barely fathom it. Time travel itself was a feat that went against nature, but traveling different worlds?

The fact that MK and A-Dan ever came into their lives was only because of a mishap - a one in a million chance - was heartbreaking to Macaque. Instead of being part of a hopeful future, the cubs were simply an impossibility that managed to land in Macaque and Wukong’s laps by mere chance, ready to be taken away at any moment. The bitterest part of Macaque chided himself for being so surprised. It had all been too perfect, too good to be true. He should’ve asked more questions. He should’ve listened to MK in the beginning. He should’ve known better.

But Macaque knew that even if he had exercised some caution, it would’ve changed nothing. MK and A-Dan fit into his heart and his life so perfectly that he couldn’t imagine a world without them anymore. He’d break if they ever left. He was certain of it.

But Liu’er Mihou was never one to let go of something precious once he had it in his grasp. He didn’t when it came to Wukong and he wouldn’t now with his cubs. They were his. It didn’t matter where they came from. All that mattered was that they weren’t going to leave.

And if the him from the other world ever came to take his cubs away, Macaque would be ready.

Macaque heard the sound of a cleared throat, jerking him away from the whispers and his thoughts. Azure stood before him, looking hesitant. Usually, the presence of the Celestial Beast would have elicited some instinctive feeling of irritation and paranoia, but Macaque felt none of that now. Just exhaustion.

“Azure?” The name would usually hop out of Macaque’s tongue with a spit and hiss like a piece of hot coal thrown into water. It almost sounded normal now, like how he used to call for Azure back when things were new and simple. It surprised Macaque and, almost hysterically, he wondered to himself if this was a sign that the world was ending.

Azure was similarly surprised. He was so caught off guard that he floundered for a bit as if the lack of vitriol stole his voice. Grimly, Macaque thought that it was quite ironic that he managed to make a fool out of Azure in the moment he wanted it least. He graciously gave Azure the time to recover and make whatever report he came to deliver.

“All documents and artifacts connected to time and space have been gathered and destroyed.” Macaque could feel the tension in his shoulders relax at the news. “We’re combing through the libraries and the treasuries for the second time to be sure, but I am confident that we got them all.”

Macaque took a shaky breath and closed his eyes with sheer relief. “Thank you, Azure,” he said - and he meant it. There was a time that saying those words to Azure was an impossible trial to perform, but when it came to his cubs, moving mountains didn’t seem so difficult. “It might not prevent them from coming here but -

“It cuts down the chances of Prince MK and Princess Xiaodan from leaving,” Azure finished. “But just in case, we are all preparing for the worst.”

“…Has MK left his room yet?”

Azure shook his head, looking genuinely sorry. Macaque didn’t bother to hide his disappointment. He knew that his eldest needed more time but…he didn’t like seeing MK so upset with him and Wukong.

“Give him time,” Azure soothed. “You have all the time in the world for him to accept his circumstances and forgive you. As parents, you both must make difficult decisions for your cubs in order to keep them safe and happy.”

“Speaking of difficult decisions, I’m late for a very important meeting with Iron Fan,” Macaque sighed, ears twitching as he heard his sworn sister’s voice in the palace. “Setting up a last-minute engagement ceremony isn’t an easy task.”

And it truly wasn’t. But ever since learning about the truth, the entire Demon Bull Family and the Dragon Family’s Heiress were quite insistent on making the marriage happen. Red Son and Mei both came to Wukong and Macaque to beg for MK’s hand. And who was Macaque to stand in the way of love, especially when the pair had proven themselves capable and strong. Besides, Red Son and Mei were one of the few people MK interacted with. As much as it pained Macaque to send his eldest away so soon, it was for the best. MK needed more bonds to tie him to the world and more reminders that this world was better than his old one.

As Macaque met with and discussed plans with Princess Iron Fan, Red Son and Mei went to visit MK. Much to their dismay, MK refused to let even them enter his room. No matter how much they pleaded and cajoled, he kept his door shut.

“Maybe today is just a bad day. We can try again tomorrow,” Mei comforted Red Son as he moped on their way back.

“But he’s never turned us away before…”

Mei gave Red Son’s shoulder a squeeze before pulling him into a one-armed hug. “Awww, don’t let this get you down, Red! Maybe he’s just super-nervous about the engagement ceremony.”

“Do you really think so?”

“Yeah! I -

The pair’s conversation stopped the moment Wukong came into view with A-Dan in his arms. Red Son and Mei immediately untangled themselves from each other and bowed.

“Your majesty.”

“Hey kids, visiting MK?” Wukong greeted, all too used to their presence by now. “How is he?”

Red Son’s shoulders slumped. “My Prince…did not let us in.”

“No?” Wukong’s smile disappeared, making the pair flinch. While the Monkey King had never raged at either of them, they had witnessed his anger enough times to be wary of it being aimed at them. Thankfully, Wukong’s mood only dropped into a resigned sort of disappointment instead of anger. “Well. That’s too bad. Guess he’s experiencing some engagement ceremony jitters since that’s coming up soon. Isn’t that right, A-Dan? Gege is in a silly mood and wants to be alone.”

At her father’s coo, A-Dan’s ears twitched and she giggled.

“No! Silly Baba!”

“Oh, I’m silly, am I? What did I get wrong?”

“Not alone! Gege with friend!” A-Dan exclaimed proudly. Unbeknownst to her, Wukong, Red Son, and Mei all stiffened and shared sharp looks. “Silly Baba.”

Wukong continued to smile at A-Dan. “Yes, yes, Baba is silly and A-Dan is right,” he agreed with her. “Will my smart girl tell me about Gege’s friend? I want to meet them.” And learn about how they managed to sneak through the security.

A-Dan raised a tiny finger over her lips. “No tell. Promise. Secret,” she whispered before bursting into giggles.

Wukong was not as amused. Not only his son, but this nameless threat was casually speaking with his daughter too?

“Did you hear that, Moonlight? MK has a new friend over. I know you’re a little busy, but why don’t you drop by and say hi? I’ll be there with A-Dan and the other kids in a sec.”

By the time Wukong managed to reach MK’s room, his Moonlight was already on his way out with an amused quirk in his smile.

“Mama!” A-Dan chirped. Her tail wiggled happily when he took her from Wukong’s arms and kissed her cheek.

Wukong looked from Macaque to the now-closed doors of MK’s room. “Moonlight, did you find…?”

“He was experimenting with Shadow Magic and tired himself out,” Macaque explained with a hint of pride. “His new “friend” must’ve been a shadow clone he managed to manifest in front of A-Dan.”

“Just a clone?” Wukong could hardly believe it. All that stress and panic over nothing?

“Yeah. Just a clone,” Macaque confirmed gently. “We’re all a little high-strung. I think we deserve a little break.” Right at this moment, A-Dan let out the squeakiest yawn. “How about a nap?”

“A nap sounds great, actually.”

“Good, it’s decided then. We’ll take a nap,” Macaque announced and started to guide his mate and his daughter to their quarters. Red Son and Mei left the family after saying their farewells. Later, as they laid curled around a snoozing A-Dan, Wukong felt Macaque’s tail wind around his for comfort.

“We won’t lose them.”

“We won’t.”

“We know everything that’s happening and we’re making moves to prevent every scenario.”

“Exactly.”

“Everything is going to be alright.”

“Everything is going to be alright. We’ll make it out of this on top like always. You’ll see.”

As the Emperor and the Empress closed their eyes and allowed themselves to rest with their daughter, certain events were already set in motion. In the mortal realm, a certain pig demon and his human huddled over an illegal scroll and found an answer. At a certain peak at Flower Fruit Mountain, three pieces of a broken stone egg started to glow.

And in his room, MK slowly slipped out of his bed and approached his mirror with an expression filled with hope.

“Still there?” He asked his reflection.

“…Yeah. Still here.” His reflection smiled back reassuringly. “They’re coming soon. Just hold on.”

[potassium-pilot]

Prompt 8: Adroit

G’raha Tia- The greatest mind to have ever existed. He kept it tucked away for hundreds of years as a keeper of the crystal tower. None alive held his understanding of ancient Allag, and none alive would ever match it. He promised to return to lead a technologically advanced Eorzea, and make the Crystal Tower a beacon of hope.

Imagine his shock upon his return that a brand new calamity happened not a few years after he sealed himself away, and the world only knew chaos, never mind technology.

Still, the Ironworks pressed on, The life work of Cid Garlond in the hands of his disciples, striving to see his work to light. They’d be damned if it worked.

Enter G’raha Tia, who remembered the Warrior of Light, who remembered what little he saw of the Seventh Astral era, who scoured the texts to find out what happened, and why the Warrior of Light didn’t keep this from happening.

Imagine his sorrow when he found out she perished before it truly began.

The tower, the tower, a beacon of hope, there to shine where the Warrior could not. Salina would weep to see it.

If only he knew he changed naught for the timeline he left behind. Midgardsormr would help all rise from the ashes where G’raha could not.

The rift presented itself, and with it, opportunity. He knew the Warrior of Light well in their journey together as a younger man. He sought her out in desperation, checking every calculation he made. Her world depended on it. Her life depended on it. The settlement he helped form served him well. She would have whatever she needed to help him stop the madness that awaited.

A meeting hall, somewhere he never saw in it’s prime. He read about this in his textbooks. Thancred Waters, the intrepid spy he was, dared to sneak into Garlean territory. Little did he know he played a game with no winners. Just like the others, they fought for a goal that would never be realized, not while worlds would rejoin.

He felt aether abound. Such a closed space, and there they all sat together. One was the Warrior of Light, the rest were tied to her fate. If he wasn’t careful, he would grab souls he couldn’t return. It was a gamble, but he tossed the die.

Imagine his dismay when he rolled craps.

Thancred Waters, that intrepid spy, had joined him. He owed him a serious apology for entrapping him, as Thancred certainly didn’t take it well. He offered him everything he could want to know, including the tales of Minfilia, the Oracle of Light.

Thankfully, he didn’t ask too much about him, lest his plan fail to come to fruition.

Again, the crystal exarch found an opportunity, another gamble yet again. There was something strange in the aether, but he waited two years, he had to try again.

The die rolled, and still, he failed. Worst of all, it was two for the price of one. And as he would expect, they left all the same, each with their own goals in mind.

Two more years had passed, and opportunity seemed to open itself to him more frequently. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the one he needed as he found himself a pair of twins, one violently angry, the other more level-headed. Much the same as the others, they sought out a new life, and left the crystarium.

Much unlike the past, there laid the last opportunity. It had to be her. It had to be her. The beacon of light was lit once more. She shone brightly in the darkness of war.

Imagine her anger, her demand to return to her untimely demise.

Thankfully, he knew well enough that the Azure Dragoon stood by, ready to jump in and help as needed.

This one, he knew could be treated differently. The artifact that would help her cross the rift awaited her within the crystals in her time. He sowed the seeds for his plan to come to fruition. It was manipulative, it was cunning, it felt odd, but a hundred years waiting for a goal to be realized makes a man desperate.

Imagine his pain when Emet-Selch sought to burn his fruit.

The gunshot was not the most painful part. Three hundred years, wasted, gone, brought low in an instant. His friend would succumb to the light aether and unwillingly aid in the rejoining of the First. His friend would cease to be, become a monster, and it was all his fault.

Imagine his surprise that the fates were on her side.

Like a phoenix, she rose from her ashes, and fought the good fight, as she ever would. Like the beacon she was, she shone through the darkness of the Ascian’s grief.

“Remember us. Remember that we once lived.” Would that he could forget.

But he knew she would remember.

Just as she remembered G’raha for him, when he all but cast him aside.

Time would march on. She would return to the Source to rest and inform her comrades of the fates of the others. She would find respite in those she came to know before.

Why couldn’t she find respite in me, he thought, I can offer so much here, and at least then, she could be with me, and I with her. But though he yearned for adventure with her, she craved rest with another. Regardless, she knew when to return.

Elidibus would make his debut in the corpse of the once-shunned Warrior of Light, buried in a shallow grave for his sin of ignorance. They carefully built his reputation anew, explained the intention behind what he did, and how he aided not only the Oracle of Light, but the Warrior of Darkness. Elidibus happily took advantage of it.

But she was never one to tarry, and sought to end his plot, though he was careful not to show his cards too soon. G’raha ran by her side as she moved to challenge him. The crystal tower had other plans. It was time, it said, time for him to succumb to the fate he charted himself.

Imagine his regret at the tears she dropped for him.

His limbs froze, but he kept a smile on his face. He was prepared from the beginning to play the role of the sacrificial lamb. The shepherd did not care for it one bit, and watched him enter an eternal prison forevermore, clutching his blood in his hands, cursing herself for her helplessness here in the hands of fate.

Imagine his heart racing at the sight of a familiar face who stood by his bedside while a new one worked her magic.

G’raha Tia- the greatest mind to have ever existed. He learned far more than a mind ever should have. Through failure and loss, hope and love, he learned that all the cleverness in the world pales in comparison to trust in those you care for. He learned that the best-laid plans can fall to ruin. He learned that fate is not set, but created by the actions of others.

One should seldom doubt a beacon of hope.

[sepublic]

Kraata

           In the years following Makuta’s awakening after the Great Cataclysm, he began studying into the very nature of the soul itself. His work as a Mask Maker alongside Ekimu had taught him that souls typically needed physical vessels in order to function; Otherwise, they would dissipate. It was the Masks of Power that acted as the necessary, physical interfaces needed to allow regular Okotans to control the life-force within them.

           But Makuta was also well-aware of the Elemental Deities, as well as other Okotan gods; Beings of energy, incorporeal, who did not need to rely on a physical vessel to ground and contain them. Their very beings were fluid and able to master their own essence as a result of it, and it was this incorporeal nature that allowed Deities to fuse with the souls of hosts, creating a Kaita fusion.

           Inevitably, Makuta desired to test his limits and see if he could create his own ‘gods’; After all, he was supposed to take his rightful place among them eventually. Thus, while many Masks of Power that he gathered were used to reactivate the Great Forge, or for other practical reasons… Makuta kept aside a few for the purpose of experimentation.

           Makuta already knew it was possible to isolate the soul, and had already done so with pieces of his own life-force. One of his Forbidden Masks enabled a user to separate their soul from their own body and move beyond it, even if the connection between the two still existed. Thus, Makuta began to speculate; Was it possible for living beings to transcend their physical forms? To shed aside their material vessels, and ascend as their own souls become powerful enough to exist on their own, without anything solid or definable needed to ground them?

           Makuta set to work experimenting on the concept of ‘ascension’, opting for Masks of Power; While they were far rarer than an Okotan, a Mask of Power also had more energy within its ‘soul’ than that of an Okotan’s, and was thus more viable for ascension than a mere mortal. After all, mortals could not warp reality the way a Mask of Power could, and many of them had abilities modeled directly after Okotan Deities, with their Mask-features designed after the very faces of said deities. By wearing a Mask of Power, an Okotan wore the ‘face’ of a deity and accessed a power identical, yet lesser, to theirs; One linked to their soul…

           In essence, someone using a Mask of Power was comparable to a Kaita Fusion, just on a far smaller scale. By this logic, Makuta deduced that if he could accomplish this alone, then it was only a matter of time before he began to reach the ascension of an Okotan Deity, or at least something similar and adequate. Thus he conducted his first experiments with the simplest of Masks, Masks of Power that gave control over one of the six primordial elements; The Elemental Deities were the first gods to form, so it made sense that Masks of simpler elements would be the easiest to ascend.

           Decades of experimentation yielded multiple failures, and several Masks of Power were destroyed and their energies released wastefully. Attempts to preserve the ‘soul’ of a Mask of Power required a physical vessel to actually contain it, which in turn marred the entire point of ascension to begin with.

           But somewhere along the way, Makuta kept to his studies, and with his son Fenrakk providing a ready supply of life-energy with his Skull Spiders, he was finally able to devise something; A powerful artifact, an automaton capable of converting a Mask of Power, shattering its physical vessel, and with additional amounts of the appropriate Life Energy… This artifact could enable a Mask of Power to ascend into something else; A serpentine being of pure energy, of Power…

           This entity was dubbed a Power Serpent, and as anticipated, it had retained the exact abilities it had as a Mask of Power, specifically those of Fire, but was now able to utilize them without requiring the grounding power of a user. This Power Serpent had an inferior mind, however; As Makuta had deduced, a being with a soul superior to that of an Okotan would naturally form sentience, but it seems that his experiments merely yielded an entity with the mere beginnings of sapience. Nevertheless, he knew that more life-energy to a soul typically meant a greater mind- Animals had weaker souls than Okotans, after all.

          The solution would be more energy; And to remedy thisandcreate a being loyal to him, Makuta provided the necessary energy by bonding a portion of his own soul to the Power Serpent. This granted the Power Serpent a personality, and actual sapience; Developing a will of its own and self-awareness, it was already capable of speech and complex thought thanks to Makuta’s own memories. Triumphant, Makuta dubbed the progenitor of a planned line of Power Serpents, and the next of his own children, ‘Kratakal’.

          After Kratakal’s creation, Makuta set to work on streamlining and perfecting the process of creating Power Serpents from Masks of Power. More Power Serpents came into being, each equipped with a certain level of sentience, able to understand commands and obey them, as well as strategize to an extent; But it might not have been proper to outright call them self-aware. Regardless, Makuta only needed one example of sapience to prove his capabilities, as completely obedient beings were more his forte when it came to the Brotherhood.

          Initially, Makuta began crafting Power Serpents from just single-element Masks of Power, but inevitably he became more ambitious and began ascending more complex Masks. Masks of Strength and Speed were among the next, eventually followed by those such as Shielding, Stealth, Fusion, and so forth. Makuta debated sacrificing one of his Forbidden Masks to create a Power Serpent, but never got the chance;

          Being a reflection of one aspect of his soul, Kratakal himself eventually grew rebellious and desired more for himself. After having been granted an impervious, bohrok body to enhance his own abilities, Kratakal eventually defected from the Brotherhood of Makuta, taking with him the artifact needed to convert Masks of Power into Power Serpents, as well as bringing the rest of his kind with him; Though lacking imagination and typically loyal to Makuta, Kratakal himself had inherited his father’s own charisma and utilized it well.

          With control over all Power Serpents and the only effective means of creating them in his grasp, Kratakal travelled over to the island of Xia, bringing his brethren along with him. To spite Makuta and spread his own name, Kratakal renamed the Power Serpents after himself, rechristening them as ‘Kraata’. The Kraata and their fantastical powers and abilities were introduced to the Xians, and through collaboration and a few business deals, Kratakal himself ascended to eternal fame amongst all of Xia. Likewise, he somehow managed to figure out how to create more Kraata, despite not having access to other Masks of Power. Subsequent generations of Kraata were sold to various Xian corporations, and studies on them with information provided by Kratakal resulted in the invention of Exo-Toa technologies.

          Makuta himself was deeply insulted and incensed at this appropriation of his creations, and the renaming of them struck him hard. The situation reminded him intimately of how he felt when people began to call his brother Ekimu the superior Mask Maker, making Makuta feel as if his own hard work and legacy was being taken from him…

          As of now, at least hundreds of Kraata exist, with all of them present and operating on Xia. Kratakal commands control over the largest portion of these Kraata as the Lord of Kraata (or Lord of Power Serpents, as Makuta still insists on calling them). For the most part, he only uses his Kraata for mundane purposes, such as his films, reality TV shows, and so forth, but they also function as powerful body guards as well, and can be used to take out anyone the Rahkshi is displeased with.

          Both for profit and also as deliberate spite towards Makuta, Kratakal has sold several Kraata to various Xian corporations and arms manufacturers, as well as the esteemed Nynrah Ghosts. Per his orders, Kraata sold to new owners become loyal to them, although it is not out of the question for Kratakal to re-induct a sold Kraata back into his army. Kraata are amongst the most expensive of any Xian product, costing at least millions for just one; And the more desired or rarer a certain power of Kraata is, the higher the price it’ll fetch.

          While some Xians use their purchased Kraata for personal, individual reasons, the vast majority of those sold are utilized in warfare and combat, or else studied and experimented on my arms manufacturers and the Nynrah Ghosts. It was Kraata that were used to help the rogue Spiriah in his experiments on Life Energy, and in various regions of Zakaz they are regarded almost as terrifying, inexplicable entities by soldiers who encountered them in the battlefield. For others, however, they are a mere source of energy, only capable of basic loyalty like any AI, and often utilized in conjunction with an Exo-Toa model.

           Kraata are generally about the length of a human arm, but this can vary. They are beings of pure, glowing energy, constantly emitting bright light, and they take serpentine forms that can weave through the air with ease. Along their length are spines and patterns, and each Kraata’s form ends in a narrow head. The exact appearance of a Kraata depends on the Mask of Power used for it; The detailed shape of their features and bodies bears resemblance to the original appearance of the Mask of Power they ascended from, and as a result a seasoned expert can immediately deduce the power of a Kraata just by its mere appearance alone. Additionally, the colors of a Kraata vary as well, being dependent on the Mask of Power they were born from; Some glow with a violet hue, while others are scarlet mixed with azure. The exact color, or combination of them, is dependent and selective to their original base form.

           As mentioned before, the abilities of a Kraata are identical to the Mask of Power they were birthed from; A Kraata of Healing can mend most injuries, a Kraata of Strength can slam forward with incredible force, and a Kraata of Elasticity can stretch its soul impossibly far. Due to their incorporeal, spirit-like nature, Kraata do not require sustenance, nor do they produce waste; They simply exist indefinitely, levitating in place and floating around. Depending on their ability, a Kraata can tramist their Power through bolts of energy; Touching a Kraata can result in one being badly burned by the concentrated life-force they are comprised of.

           Kraata are sentient, and like basic AI, can understand orders, formulate basic strategies, investigate when necessary, and so forth. Their sapience is questionable, but they clearly understand what others tell them to do, meaning their intelligence is at least indisputable. By default, Kraata are loyal to their creator; First Makuta, but eventually Kratakal. By Kratakal’s orders, they will acclimate to new owners as commanded and listen to them; And in turn, their new owners can have them obey another person, and so forth.

          They have a basic understanding of authority and hierarchies and will listen to them without fail; Kraata lack fear or any emotions, it seems, nor do they seem to possess a will. The sole exception lies in their progenitor Kratakal, who has a portion of Makuta’s soul; And while Kraata typically do not betray their masters, it seems that Kratakal’s kinship with them, as well as his own charisma and possession of their original maker’s spirit –thus granting Kratakal a similar ‘presence’ to Makuta- allowed him to sway the Power Serpents over to his side.

[lilium-tenebris]

So this is a long rant about Lillian’s morale code, the Crest of Lovicelle’s secondary functionality, and the nature of Grima in this weakened state and how it colors Lillian’s relationship with it. Under the cut cuz boy am I going to get going long on shit. Yeah, this is really long but it’s also really important so *shrug*.

So the first thing I need to make somewhat clear about Lillian is she is not objectively a morally good character, not even close. In her interactions she has been exceptionally kind and friendly (to the best of HER abilities) in most cases and that is genuine. But a nice person is not always a GOOD person in the morale scale of things. Lillian only obtained a concept of good and bad from the occasional children’s book and what not and so her grasping of it is very vague and her ability to understand the IMPORTANCE of that sort of thing is low.

She isn’t evil though, in a typical 9 alignment system she’s a type of neutral though that can vary which of the 3 from route to route. For example Crimson Flower being the only route she becomes OVERLY zelous about the cause itself she becomes Lawful Neutral with Edelgard as the ‘law’ so to speak. In the school phase and many others she’s chillin more at a True Neutral. With the exception of Crimson Flower, but this still applies in it, Lillian is Loyal to PEOPLE not ideals, concepts, a morale system, anything.

She has striven her whole life to be accepted, you would think being the object of worship of a cult would give that impression but it doesn’t in her case. During her time in the Grimist Cult she was ISOLATED, other than strange dehumanizing worshiping rituals she was denied seeing any of her caretakers for any length of time BECAUSE it would humanize her. They did not want a little girl they wanted a god.

Coming to the Church of Seiros was NOT much better for her, and though it’s objectively a step up because of the way it made her feel she views it as worse. Once her connection to Grima came to light and the nature of it’s energy being restrained by her she was simply dehumanized in a  different way. She became basically treated like an artifact, a fragile urn with an evil spirit in it to be set on a shelf to keep the spirit at bay. Anyone with even an inkling  of who she was or what was going on wound up treating her like the plague in order to avoid being the one to crack or shatter the ‘urn’ in this metaphor.

She was only able to spend time around certain people that way such as Professor Hanneman helping him with his research, yet, even there she felt as though that was because of her crest. She was welcome there only because she was an interesting research subject, once again, not a person, whether that reflects his true opinion isn’t known to me and I’ll handle that on a person by person basis RP wise, yet, in the end it’s how she comes to FEEL about it just the same.

Then this years students come in and she manages to connect with Gabriel ( @sol-chorus ) my other character. That helps, he helps, but, Gabriel has his own problems and struggles that make him biased against other students, the houses, and just the system there under based on his experiences with his own crest. Not to mention he is not AWARE of everything listed above as she has been ordered to keep that ‘burden’ to herself as it is ‘hers’ to carry. So he doesn’t realize when he talks down about her joining a houses when she mentions it he’s pushing her into this cycle of isolation he doesn’t know ANYTHING about it.

So that’s where she winds up by the time she is pulled into the 3h main story and conflict by SOMEONE from one of the houses reaching out a hand. In most cases (minus one AU) the students have no IDEA about who or what she is or where she came from and she’s treated as a classmate, a weird classmate, but she’s not the strangest one certainly. And the more the first half of the game goes on the harder Lillian latches onto her classmates, her house, the Professor etc. she is finally somewhere where she’s considered a person. However, warnings from the church sill put her back remind her ‘what’ she is and that juxtaposition of that still haunting her against her new friends and allies is maddening and it takes her minor bitterness towards the Church and inflates it to a silent boiling rage. To the point that she won’t go in the Chapel, like, if she was implemented int he game during no months of any free time, in the WHOLE game would you find her anywhere near the chapel.

In a route such as the Blue Lions, she at least comes to accept a church that is at least fully under Byleth’s leadership, but, she still has lingering resentment for Rhea (who survives) and the old church for what she was put through.

Of course all of that brings us around tot he source of this, Lillian was born a Grim Witch, she was born this Generations Vessel/Host of the weakened spirit o The Fell Dragon, that has been falling deeper and deeper into weakness over the Millennia between this and anything else I’ve written for this lore. It will be centuries before the dragon’s soul can gain enough energy to even try to exist outside of a host again. This puts LIllian in a different position than previous hosts, it does not wish to destroy her, or rather it could not do so even if it wished because that would leave it right where it started. Instead it pursues a more ‘symbiotic’ appearing relationship with her. Because she has been able to hear the voice since she was a small child even when she was ALONE she was connected to the dragon and could hear it frightening and overwhelming as it was. As the conflict breaks out in 3H the Fell Dragon seizes that and Lillian’s new found attachments as a weakness. It may not be able to regain it’s strength and be rid of her but it can use her to decrease the wait time on it rebuilding it’s strength in the long run.

The Crest of Lovicelle acts as a simple magic attack increasing Crest for mechanics but, it’s secondary feature is to act as a road a channel between the dragon and it’s host allowing the host to borrow some of it’s power. However, Grima being ultimately driven by a desire to break free in centuries hence and destroy the world as it is known will not do something like that for free. In order to use this functionality of the crest and activate it’s ‘Breath of Ruin’ factor. This taps into Grima’s base energy and essentially allows Lillian to disintegrate something, walls, people, anything lacking in the kind of divinity Grima possesses can be destroyed by the dragon’s raw ruin factor. However, in order to open IT’S end of the channel Grima requires one thing in return. For each time it’s power is to be borrowed through the crest this way, it wants a human soul. It does not matter who or from where any soul now is able to help the creature regenerate it’s power faster from it’s current weakened stasis. And the point of everything above is to say this: Lillian in some ways is not OPPOSED to using this power, sparingly.

If these people who have finally made Lillian feel like a human being, people who have accepted her are in enough danger she will cave to this offer of power time and again. If her back hits the wall and she can see no other way to protect her house/side she’ll pay the price, one enemies soul (or if desperate enough a simple stranger’s) ceasing to exist is worth the price of admission if that borrowed power will save those she’s come to love. The only thing that effects this use of it is how OFTEN she uses it, for example in Crimson Flower there is a very ‘ends justify the means’ attitude through that WHOLE route and I could see her using this not nearly constantly but maybe 5-8 times throughout the WHOLE five and a half year war (maybe once in the academy phase it depends). Where as in say an Azure Moon Route where that sort of thing may not be as ‘acceptable’ to her allies she may only use it once or twice.

This is more or less despite her reasons for it objectively evil as an action itself, someones soul CEASES to be, it is GONE, they are something worse than dead. She is WELL aware of this fact, don’t doubt that she  is aware not only of this but, that each time she leans on the dragon like this, it becomes a little stronger and she damns some future generation a little bit more. She knows these things she understands them from an objective concept, she can write them on paper and explain them in words and yet-

She doesn’t FEEL them. At least not int he way most people would, she is not REMORSELESS not even close any time she uses this ability it shakes her and she may even isolate herself for a while to try and cope with the evil she commits. But she has a very ‘it had to be done I had no choice, i couldn’t let something HAPPEN to them’. Her allies are worth it, her friends are worth it, these people who would welcome her are worth any suffering, after all she was BORN a monster that is not going to change just because some people are kind enough not to see her that way.

That is what she believes that is what her ENTIRE rearing as a child has brought her to have resonate from her very core. Lillian is a very nice person, if you become friend or ally she would do anything for you to repay that kindness.

Emphasis on anything.

[digicity24]

How I Passed the microsoft AZ-900 Azure Fundamentals exam

information and tips on how to start learning for a microsoft azure certification exam on your own and get starting working in the IT industry.

I just passed the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) exam, which is a certification for beginners. In this blog post, I'll talk about how I studied for the test, so you might be able to use a similar or better method. Microsoft will judge your performance on the exam based on Core Azure Services, Core Management Tools, General Security and Networking, Governance, Privacy, and Compliance, rather than just an overview of the Azure Cloud Service Provider. You should know when to use each service rather than how to use it. So let's start thinking about how we can prepare for the test. finish learning how to use Microsoft AZ-900.

If you have used Azure services before, this is a great chance to show what you know about Azure's core ideas, such as the different services, pricing, security, administration, and support. Azure services can do things like computing, storage, networking, app services, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), integration, and security. Please look at the figure below for a list of Azure services.

This test covers the basics of the Azure cloud and is a good place to start for people who are new to the Azure world. Even though AZ-900 is an important test, it is not easy to pass. This exam tests your basic knowledge of how the cloud works and how to run Azure administrations. People with and without technical skills can prepare for this exam, which will test their knowledge of Azure Cloud services and make them ready for the next Azure role-based certifications.

The AZ-900 exam

The Azure Fundamentals exam is one of the best ways to show how much you know about cloud concepts. You can learn more about how the cloud works by learning about Azure services, Azure workloads, security and privacy in Azure, as well as Azure pricing and support. Those who want to take the exam should know about the core technology artifacts, which include storage, networking, cloud computing, seamless application support, and full application development.

https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/learn/certifications/exams/az-900

I must state that the aforementioned site is the finest resource, but it is insufficient for your exam. From here, you may finish the study route offered by Microsoft. 2. I utilized the aforementioned video lessons to help me comprehend, but even after purchasing a premium course, you can still get this kind of tutorial online.

Microsoft Az-900 practice questions that include real questions for the exam Regarding the free website that I have so far been exploring: https://www.examdocs.com/

Clearly the finest website to date.

This is the most important component because the majority of the questions come from these sources. If you have any doubts about the answers because they could be inaccurate in certain situations, be sure to examine the discussion. Personal Experience: The majority of the questions in my case came from the websites for either Microsoft Learn or the test subjects, however there are a few areas where I believe I could still do better, like Security Center, Azure Sentinel, Virtual Networks, and Azure Subscription. Perhaps you might spend more time on the subjects mentioned above. I hope this post is useful for you. Please let me know in the comments if there is anything you would want me to add or if this post has otherwise helped you with your test preparation.

Source: Free Guest Posting Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

[nuventosystems]

Azure-based hybrid application

In order to provide access to healthcare for all people, a rapidly expanding healthcare organisation decided to create a Azure-based hybrid application. There were four distinct sister apps in this multi-tenant application for patients, physicians, labs, and pharmacies. In addition to asking for home prescription delivery and mobile lab testing, patients may communicate with doctors via the app. Patients could get care whenever they needed it thanks to a PaaS application we created that operated on Azure.

Nuvento's customer required a reliable, long-lasting, and reasonably priced solution that could scale as their subscriber base grew. A variety of difficulties plague the hybrid multiuser healthcare application.

Because there are four distinct sister programmes and user personas, all processes must be synchronised and error-free.

Because of the sensitivity of the application, it was vital to assure quick reaction times, availability, and processes.

On all platforms, the app must work well and be responsive.

High security was required for crucial components like payments and sensitive data.

Solution

Nuvento developed the best solution after carefully evaluating the client's objectives and problems. We chose Azure cloud hosting since one of the most important factors was application availability. We could handle the application's development, testing, deployment, management, and upgrades using Azure PaaS while keeping data control.

With the help of Cloud Atlas and Mongo Db, Azure PaaS services including Azure App Service, Azure Functions, and Azure DevOps were connected. Since various user categories will sign in to the programme using various devices, guaranteeing responsiveness, we recommended a hybrid application. While, for instance, physicians can be using a PC, patients might be using a mobile device.

Azure app service

Using Azure App Service, we can host the application reasonably and without having to worry about the risks associated with running the server, such as security, load balancing, autoscaling, and DevOps. Azure applications services may be restarted in about 15 seconds, as opposed to the 15 minutes it can take to set up or restart a server.

Azure functions

With Azure functions, you can select from a range of automatic deployment choices, tailor the pricing based on usage, and obtain app analytics. The application relies on Azure Function to manage time-triggering functions and processes that are essential to its efficient operation.

Azure DevOps

A variety of services are available through Azure DevOps and may be used as needed. These services include Azure Artifacts, Boards, Pipelines, Repos, and Test Plans. Without disrupting the services, we may build, test, and deploy artefacts using agile development methods, workflows, and CI/CD pipelines.

Cloud Storage

Storage must be secure, scalable, and affordably priced to guarantee availability. Because of its rapid performance, adaptable architecture, and sophisticated querying and analytics tools, we chose the cloud database Mongo Db Atlas. We registered for an Azure Blob storage account to store additional data, including code, logs, pdf reports, and other files.

The Outcomes

Cost savings;

Thanks to the Azure app service, the overall operating costs were reduced by 35%.

Faster time to market;

Our development, testing, and deployment processes are now more agile due to Azure DevOps.

Near-zero downtime;

With the help of CI/CD procedures, downtime has been reduced to 2–5 seconds, ensuring the availability of mission-critical applications.

Lesser Complexity;

The methods for connecting to applications have been streamlined by Azure apps.

Auto scalability;

When the number of consumers utilising Azure applications services varies, scaling up or down improves performance.

Multiplatform support;

Because of Azure's capabilities, the app runs at maximum efficiency and loads quickly on all devices.

Improved efficiency;

manages process workflow to ensure that all clients receive high-quality service

[devopsengineer]

Azure artifacts pricing

Azure artifacts pricing Azure artifacts pricing World news online Azure artifacts pricing Start using Azure Artifacts Azure DevOps Services | Azure DevOps Server 2020 | Azure DevOps Server 2019 | TFS 2018 – TFS 2017 If you’re using a version of TFS, you need to license Azure Artifacts rather than set up billing. Azure DevOps Services Learn how to go through the sign-up process for Azure…

[creative-type]

Good Deeds Gone Unpunished Review

Hey, remember when I was trying to read a bunch this year? I’m still doing that, but the books I’ve been reading don’t fit into any of my categories so they don’t count. But finally, after many months of bookish silence, I’m back with Rich Burlew’s new print book Good Deeds Gone Unpunished

Why I Read This Book

It’s difficult to talk about Good Deeds without having some background on the universe it takes part in. The Order of the Stick is a web comic that’s been running since the dawn of time (aka 2003). As seen by the cover, the art is done exclusively in stick figures. But don’t let the style fool you--Burlew has over the years perfected his craft and the art is very effective for the story he’s trying to tell. This is especially true in whenever a large crowd is on page and the simplistic style makes it easy to tell what’s going on. 

The Order of the Stick started out as a gag-a-day D&D strip parodying common fantasy and roleplaying tropes. I have never played D&D in my life, and as a result the early strips don’t really do it for me, but then the story evolves into something greater. While it never leaves its D&D roots, the mechanics are quietly shuffled to the background. The comic never goes long without cracking a joke, but the overarching story changes its focus to deconstructing and then reconstructing just about every fantasy and storytelling trope under the sun. 

Enter the Sapphire Guard.

The Sapphire Guard are probably the most important secondary characters that aren’t villains. A big chunk of the main comic takes place in their homeland, Azure City, and it’s here where the story really starts blooming into an epic adventure. Good Deeds Gone Unpunished is a collection of short stories starring these characters, the longest of which stars fan-favorite O-Chul in the 50 page short story How the Paladin Got His Scar. The shortest is a 9 page, dialogue-free story told from the POV of a normal house cat.

That may seem lame, but it was surprisingly heartwarming. 

Two of the stories were previously Kickstarter exclusives. Another takes place in the “present day” of the comic while the rest take place in the past (hence being labeled on the spine as Book 1/2 when previous print-exclusive prequels are 0 and -1). While the main comic is in color, the print exclusives are always done in grey scale as a cost cutter.

I obviously can’t recommend this to anyone who isn’t caught up at least to Book 5 in the main comic--that’s a bit of a commitment, at over 900 strips. Luckily all of the main story strips can be found online for free. Don’t let the early strips put you off too much, but if you’re not invested in the characters by the introduction of the paladins then I’d say this probably isn’t the story for you.

My Thoughts on the Book

Good grief, that’s a lot of preamble to get to the heart of the issue. So it’s finally time for the big question: Did I enjoy Good Deeds Gone Unpunished?

The answer is yes and no.

As a Kickstarter backer, I had already read two of the five stories. I was most excited about the all-new story set in the present day. The two previous print-exclusive prequels--while not required reading to understand the main comic--dropped some pretty heavy foreshadowing for things to come. I assumed that would be the case here, and I was wrong. 

It was my own fault for expecting things that hadn’t been promised, but I was still a little disappointed. The tone of the book is for the most part pretty lighthearted and fun, with some moments that tug the heartstrings. They are truly side content that in no way alters my understanding of the main comic.

There is one exception, and that is the aforementioned How the Paladin Got His Scar. Though I had already read it, it remains my favorite of all the side content Burlew has produced over the years and the highlight of the book. I would say it’s worth buying Good Deeds for this one story by itself. The rest is just icing on the cake.

As  previously stated, Burlew seems intent on challenging pretty much every fantasy trope ever, and over the course of the story he’s had the opportunity to write every flavor of paladin there is--showing off the best and worst aspects of that particular class. 

It isn’t much of a stretch to see how real world politics has influenced Burlew’s story, and there’s a lot to chew on in How the Paladin Got his Scar. Take the following quote, from a senior paladin to an acolyte and you’ll see what I mean.

“I am not a paladin yet, so I cannot call upon the blessed power of the Twelve Gods to determine which hobgoblins are Evil. How will I know which are fair to attack?”

“An excellent question, and I am pleased that you are giving these concerns the weight they deserve. It is important to remember simply that hobgoblins are usually Evil, and those who may not be so technically still worship an Evil God--or defend and Evil social order, or grow food for Evil warriors, or give birth to Evil children. It is enough for us to destroy their Evil society, and let any who survive reflect on the path of wickedness. Never hesitate to punish Evil, or support for Evil, or tolerance for Evil. 

“Thank you, Master. You are wise, and I will do my best to follow your example.”

This is as the paladins prepare an indeterminate attack on a hobgoblin stronghold on the hunch that an Evil artifact might be present inside, thus upsetting the balance of peace in the region. 

I’ll say it again, simple art =/= a simple story. Burlew is a damn good writer, and O-Chul is a fan-favorite for a reason. It’s amazing how Burlew is able to set up what seems to be an insurmountable problem that can only end in war and violence and then resolve that problem in a satisfying manner, all in fifty pages and with a hefty dose of character development along the way. 

In Conclusion

If any of my followers aren’t familiar with The Order of the Stick I’d highly recommend giving it a look. If someone who knows nothing about D&D can muddle through until the main plot comes along then you know there’s something there besides the jokes (funny as those are). 

If any of my followers are familiar with OotS, Good Deeds is a worthy addition to the print-only exclusives--just don’t expect plot bombs like Origin of the PCs or Start of Darkness. How the Paladin Got His Scar alone is worth the price of admission, and the rest are pretty solid, too. 

[sinjaangels]

Merciful Red - Kekkai Sensen Fan Fic

Kekkai Sensen/Blood Blockade Battlefront

Story and Characters belong to Yasuhiro Nightow

Merciful Red

Hellsalem's Lot was once New York and is now known as the city of miracles due to a great supernatural catastrophe called the Great Collapse. Where the impossible is possible. But what is a miracle? According to the dictionary, a miracle is an effect or extraordinary event in the physical world that surpasses all known human or natural powers and is ascribed to a supernatural cause.

Leona Watch and her young brother, Michel came to Hellsalem's Lot with their parents. The Watch Family had hoped to experience a miracle for Michel to walk again. What they experienced wasn't the miracle that was desired. The Watch Siblings encountered an ancient deity. The deity made the siblings choose who would pay the price for the "Eyes of the All-Seeing Gods". While Leona was paralyzed with fear, Michel had spoken up willing to pay the price. Michel's sight was taken and the magical artifact replaced Leona's eyes. As quickly as the deity arrived, it disappeared, and time resumed. However, Michel was not only crippled but blind.

Leona was devastated by her failure as a sister. She couldn't bear the grief and disappointment of their parents. Weeks later Leona gave up everything to make it up to Michel. She gives up her current life to move to Hellsalem's Lot. She had two goals: one, to support her brother financially and her main goal to find a way to reverse the damage she should have prevented.

Leona arrived in Hellsalem's Lot during a cold Late February. All she had was the coat on her back and a rolling suitcase. She was taking her first trip through the subways standing on a platform nose deep into a brochure map. It was Friday the thirteenth and Leona would forever remember this day and the number thirteen for all eternity. For when she lowered the map and looked down the platform, her magical eyes caught sight of a beautiful crimson aura. It wrapped around a woman that was just as beautiful with short lavender-pink hair and pale skin. The woman glances at her with wide red eyes. They stare at each other until the woman slowly smiles. A multitude of squeaking and flapping of leather wings surrounded Leona. The eerie creak of a door opened behind her. Over her shoulder, she saw a doorway within the dark cape of a creepy man in a hat. Suddenly, the woman leaped across the platform and pushed Leona through the door. They fell into the doorway and they and the door disappeared with no one the wiser. Leona gazed up in horror at the woman wicked grin with bright-eyed excitement. She forced open one of Leona's eyes and the gleaming azure orbs decorated with ancient runes glowed on her the woman's face.

"Ah, the Eyes of the All-Seeing Gods! Must be my lucky day!"

Leona was taken by the Elder Blood Breed Valsh Rozzo Valctovoel Girika to the depths of the Alterworld. Girika was a very powerful Blood Breed but Girika wanted to elevate her status further. She was delighted with her discovery of Leona and intended to have her as her servant. Leona became a Blood Breed after her thirteenth bite. The mark of turning appeared over her chest, beneath her collarbone in the form of a pair of black raven wings with the roman numeral 13 between the wings. But she was far from loyal to her mistress. Girika discovered that Leona's eyes resisted her power to control her mind. Every so often, Girika would bring a fresh living human and try to entice her to feed. To give in to the bloodthirsty savagery that may perhaps weaken her resolve. Once Girika brought her a baby to cruelly tease her. When Leona adamantly refused, Girika fed on the poor infant right in front of Leona, draining him of every precious drop. In horror and in despair, Leona activates her eyes and took over Girika's sight by accident. Girika was thrown off balanced for a moment before she ends Leona's control by slamming Leona's skull against the floor! With this discovery of an ability, Leona's courage renews. Thus, began the six-month struggle between the two Blood Breeds.

By the sixth month, Leona was terribly weak and thin. She had never partaken in the blood freely. At times, Girika, much to her disgust and frustration, had to force Leona to drink. It was a fight every time and Leona violently resisted, spitting and chocking to prevent ingesting the blood. Girika lost her temper and started beating Leona. She was merciless as going so far as ripping her skin, breaking her bones and even tearing her limbs away! Leona would be tortured this way for hours and hours until Girika's anger abated.

Leona was lying in the corner of the room missing her arms and legs in a large pool of her blood. She gasped raggedly, her body throbs in pain with every breath. Tears and snot mix with the blood on her face. There was the sound of a pop and a tiny hoot. Leona opened her eyes and saw a little white monkey staring at her.

"What….what are you doing here?" she asked. "You better leave…before she…comes back…she'll kill you…"

Leona had never seen a mach monkey before. Mach monkeys were a hybrid creature between a Beyondian and surface world animal. Mach monkeys are incredibly fast creatures that can break the sound barrier, hence the popping sound. The naked human eye can never track the movements of the elusive creatures. Another important note was their level of intelligence. These monkeys are so smart that they have been known to steal small electronics such as phones and cameras to pawn for money which they spend for food.

The monkey sitting before Leona's limbless body happened to be passing between the two worlds of the Alterworld and the surface world. He had heard Leona's cries as she was tortured. Usually, mach monkeys tend to flee from dangerous scenes, but it had sympathized with the poor girl's screams. He had watched in horror as each limb was ripped off and nearly fled when Girika devoured them. When the horrible woman was gone, the monkey slipped in through a small barred window and checked on her. The girl had the same scent of a Blood Breed as the woman that had left, but her soft voice and her concerns for his welfare made him feel safe to approach Leona. He licked her tears and blood off her face. It was the first time in months that Leona felt such sweet gentleness even if it was from an animal. It moved her so deeply, her tears returned, and the monkey licked those up too. Leona shivered at the sound of the tiny animal's beating heart. She could hear the fresh living blood that rushed through his veins. She had felt her fangs unsheathe and she hissed. The monkey leaps back alarmed.

"….I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" Leona wept.

With a pop, he was gone. Leona cried harder and apologized repeatedly to herself. She screamed and cursed. With the little strength she had at the time, she lifted her head with her neck and banged her head against the dirty floor soaked with her blood. She stilled at the sound of a pop. When her head lifted she was stunned to see the monkey again with a two-headed rat, each head that eight-eyes like a spider. It was dead and the monkey pushed it towards her. He had offered the blood of another animal. Would it be okay, Leona asked to herself. It was already dead and it was an animal. She opened her mouth and the rat was set between her fangs. Leona's eye's had been a flickering blue, but when she had finally taken blood, they became a bright as a red moon. She body went from cold to lukewarm and then it had gone back to cold when the rat was drained. Leona shook and whined. Her body was roaring for more.

"Go away!" she whimpers. "Go away before I hurt you…"

There was a pop and he was gone. After he was gone, Girika appeared and Leona felt her fury.

"You…" she glances at the rat. "…are a disgusting disgrace!" she shrieks.

Leona screams in fear and agony.

Strangely, the monkey came back the next time and took notice of a larger pool of blood and deep gashes and flesh bitten off her body. Leona lies on her stomach, still limbless. The monkey whimpers and pats Leona's cheek.

"….mon…key…" her voice was hoarse and cracking.

The monkey whines.

"Help…me…please…"

Leona lifts and turns her head. She places the monkey's paw on one side of her canines. Gently, she closes her mouth and pricks the monkey's paw. The monkey squeaks but the pinch was gone in seconds. It reached behind his back and scratched it vigorously. Under the white fur the roman numeral one is tattooed on the dark skin of his back.

Every day, for thirteen days, the monkey would visit to comfort Leona and each time, he received a pinch.

After he received the thirteenth bite, the monkey felt a strong connection to Leona. He felt a powerful need to return to her and he went. Leona was alone. He popped right in front of her. Leona smiles weakly.

"You came," her eyes were glowing red instead of blue. The monkey's own eyes were glowing red.

Leona flinches, "She's coming!"

The monkey felt Girika's approach. His short fur stood on end and he arched his back. His instincts were telling him to flee. The bond that was cemented through Leona's fangs kept him there. He faced the door and growls with his eyes glowing brighter and redder. Girika enters and raises an eyebrow.

"Hmmm? What's this filthy beast doing here?"

Leona could see the monkey's crimson aura grow larger and larger, wrapping around the monkey. Leona grits her teeth and her eyes flash. The monkey shrieks and crimson wings hide his tiny form…

There was an explosion of power and a great ape leaps out of an Alterworld building. The beast soars through the air over 200-feet! It lands on the roof of an apartment building. In the crook of one of his hard biceps, Leona was being cradled. The beast looks around snuffling his nose in the air. He groans and looks down on Leona. Leona gazes up to the sky. Around them were floating buildings on slabs of land. Some of the buildings were from the human side as debris. There were flying monsters of varying sizes flying alone or in flocks. Further above was the dense fog flowing out of the Alterworld and out into the human world.

"I…want to go home…."

The beast grunts, crouching low to the floor he leaps into the air with a great sonic boom! It was like an explosion and it created a crater on the roof. The beast takes great leaps launching off floating plots of land and debris until it disappears into the fog and blasts out of it to fly over twinkling, colorful lights of the nightscape of Hellsalem's Lot. A mid-air sonic boom goes off and the beast makes a great and powerful landing on the roof of a five-star hotel. Its guests on the uppermost levels felt the impact with the shuddering walls and flickering lights. The beast moves Leona into his paw and he whines. Leona gazes onto his face and smiles before opening her eyes wide. The blue artifacts shine brighter than before piercing through the night fog and gazes on the stars and planets in the far heavens.

"Thank you so much!"

The beast grins, baring his sabretooth fangs. With a deep hoot and sonic boom, he disappears with his mistress.

At a seedy bar somewhere in the rougher than normal part of the city, two men were having heavy drink in tall, wide mugs. Like the fog outside, there was a fog of hazy smoke gathering at the ceiling, spiraling out of cigarettes in hands and ashtrays. The smoke imitated a hot pink aurora borealis in the pink and gold neon lightning. Tending the bar was an eyeless Beyondian with a bulbous, mushroom-like head. He was thin and wore a nicely tailored suit. He looks towards the young lady sitting at the far end of the bar. She had her own little glass filled with the galaxy blue alcohol. Sitting before her was a little mach monkey, with his own glass. The young lady had thick fluffy hair that trailed down her back. Her eyes were so squinty that you couldn't tell the color of her eyes. But, she had a charming and pretty face. The girl smiles down at the monkey and raises her glass. The monkey hoots and they clink their glasses together. The two men were eyeing her, taking the swell of her breasts under her white tank top. The naked bit of thigh peaked between her short, blue jean shorts and thigh-high navy blue leggings. The two men grinned at each other as they stood up and make their approach. They sit on each side of the girl.

"How you doin'?" the man on the left slurs.

"Don't think I see a pretty young thing like yer'self here before," the man on her right grins.

"Mmm, I just moved here. Sonic and I are just celebrating our freedom."

Sonic hoots and sips his whiskey. The girl giggles and sips her drink slowly savoring the sparkling brew, tilting her head back lengthening her neck. One of the men whistles and waggles his eyebrows. The other man was drooling over the lovely expanse of skin on her chest. He blinks several times when he finally notices the tattoo.

"Whoa, that's some sweet ink! Wings and…what number is that?"

Setting her glass down, the girl replies, "It means 13. It's an unlucky number for me."

In their drunken daze, they frown at that, "Unlucky number? Then why put it on you?"

"As a reminder of an unfortunate day…when I first arrived here. To always be careful in Hellsalem's Lot."

"Awww, I'm sorry to hear that, baby."

"Why don't you tell us what happen?"

The young woman smiles sweetly, "Sure! Though it's a very personal story…can we go somewhere private?"

The men's eyes widen with glee. They finish their mugs and slam them down on the bar. One of them pays for theirs and the girl's drinks while the other helps the girl off the stool. The monkey had disappeared, his shot of whiskey empty.

The girl is followed from behind, leading them deeper and deeper through the maze of alleyways and backstreets. They arrive at a small church hidden between two buildings. The Great Collapse had completely altered the streets and landmarks of former New York City. Small abandoned buildings such as this small steeple of a church are hidden. Inside the church were simply just dusty and cracked pews, at the back of the church the altar with a podium and toppled over chairs. The girl gazes on the stained glass of a cross, the city lights are seen through.

"Heh, pretty kinky…getting naughty in the church," the man licks his lips.

"We're not here to get kinky," sighs the young woman. "We're here to feed."

A great white beast drops down from the rafters. Whipping around the men found the beast completely blocking the exit. It's large red eyes flash over them. It lunges it long arms out and grabs a man into each of his paws. He growls and gradually squeezes them. They yell out in pain until they passed out. Leona joins Sonic and they gaze over the unconscious men. Leona crouches over them with an apologetic smile.

"Sorry, but…we got to eat."

Sonic returns to his original size he joins Leona as she hovers over one of the men. She lifts the man off the ground and brings her lips to his neck. Sonic takes the man's hand and sinks his tiny yet long fangs in. Their eyes glowed bright and red.

Two finely dressed men stood in a hospital room looking over the two other men from the bar who were unconscious and handcuffed to their beds. On the side of their necks were taped white gauze. Their hands each had a simple band-aid. A tall man wore a full charcoal suit, with a blue shirt and yellow tie. He had dark, wavy short hair and soft maroon eyes. His most outstanding feature was a pale scar that ran close to the corner of left lip up his cheek and reaching underneath his hair. He was reading one of the men's charts. The other man was of greater stature, standing a foot and taller than his companion. He wore a waistcoat vest with a red back and gray front over a white, long-sleeved dress shirt. His slacks were a dark gray and his dress shoes were brown. Short red hair curtained his bright green eyes and glasses. His two remarkable features were his thick red sideburns and his most unusual fanged underbite. The red-haired man crosses an arm and rests his hand in his chin as he goes into his thoughts.

The man in the suit sighs and returns the chart.

"This has been happening for the last two months." The man looks out the window, "and on a full moon too. It's definitely a Blood Breed…but…"

"This is entirely different from any ordinary Blood Breed."

"It's so strange, Klaus."

The tall, red-haired man, Klaus, doesn't reply.

"It's unheard of. A Blood Breed that takes a nibble from their victims and…throws them back? No, not just throw them away…they had the…." Steven throws his hand and gestures out between the two men. "They had the…decency to deliver them to a hospital for treatment. It's obvious that they have been bitten…but the doctors had checked over them several times every hour for three days searching for any numeral tattoos. But nothing had appeared! They haven't been turned. It doesn't make any sense! Why?!"

"These two are the first pair of the night. By midnight, there will be another pair and a final pair before sunrise," mentions Klaus.

Steven sighs exasperatedly. The door slams open and a man in a tan trench coat, a flip of dark hair over his eye and possibly a little shorter than both men stomps into the room.

"Godammit, Starphase! What the hell are you doing here?!" he roars.

"Ah, Lieutenant Law," Steven smiles.

"Good evening, Lt. Law." Klaus nods his head.

Daniel Law growls in frustration and decides to focus on the other two men.

"I'm assuming you've come to collect these men?" asks Klaus.

"Yeah," Daniel sighs, "…again, this Blood Breed or vampire-whatever victims have warrants like the other victims. Henry McGinnis wanted for several counts of assault. Jack Benning…this bastard is wanted for a hit-and-run…the kid was only 7-years old."

Steven narrows his eyes and Klaus' mouth is strained.

"This vampire is picking her victims well. We and the hospital are learning to keep a hold on them recently. When this first started, the victims didn't stick around to talk to police because they had warrants."

"But the ones that are able to give an account had very little information. They don't remember anything. They know that it was a girl but when they are asked to give a description they all said that a blue light flashes in their minds when they tried to remember a face," shakes Steven's head.

Daniel clicks his tongue in frustration as he continues, "What really throws me off, is the tinier bite marks on the hands!"

Steven nods, "Yeah, I can't fathom what made that."

Klaus looks to Steven, "We're going to have to call in a specialist."

Steven chuckles, "I'm sure 'Lucky' is already on his way. Brand new vampire behavior! He wouldn't miss this for the world."

"The media and the public are buzzing," Daniel adds. "This mystery woman is becoming a newborn urban legend…they've given her dozen of names."

"Red Mercy…" Klaus begins to list, "Vampire Angel…the Merciful Vampire….Mercy Vamp…Merciful Red."

"Damn," Daniel scratches his head, "This city has to surpass itself in the realm of the weird every day."

[philipholt]

Setting up Azure DevOps CI/CD for a .NET Core 3.1 Web App hosted in Azure App Service for Linux

Following up on my post last week on moving from App Service on Windows to App Service on Linux, I wanted to make sure I had a clean CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) pipeline for all my sites. I'm using Azure DevOps because it's basically free. You get 1800 build minutes a month FREE and I'm not even close to using it with three occasionally-updated sites building on it.

Last Post: I updated one of my websites from ASP.NET Core 2.2 to the latest LTS (Long Term Support) version of ASP.NET Core 3.1 this week. I want to do the same with my podcast site AND move it to Linux at the same time. Azure App Service for Linux has some very good pricing and allowed me to move over to a Premium v2 plan from Standard which gives me double the memory at 35% off.

Setting up on Azure DevOps is easy and just like signing up for Azure you'll use your Microsoft ID. Mine is my gmail/gsuite, in fact. You can also login with GitHub creds. It's also nice if your project makes NuGet packages as there's an integrated NuGet Server that others can consume libraries from downstream before (if) you publish them publicly.

I set up one of my sites with Azure DevOps a while back in about an hour using their visual drag and drop Pipeline system which looked like this:

There's some controversy as some folks REALLY like the "classic" pipeline while others like the YAML (Yet Another Markup Language, IMHO) style. YAML doesn't have all the features of the original pipeline yet, but it's close. It's primary advantage is that the pipeline definition exists as a single .YAML file and can be checked-in with your source code. That way someone (you, whomever) could import your GitHub or DevOps Git repository and it includes everything it needs to build and optionally deploy the app.

The Azure DevOps team is one of the most organized and transparent teams with a published roadmap that's super detailed and they announce their sprint numbers in the app itself as it's updated which is pretty cool.

When YAML includes a nice visual interface on top of it, it'll be time for everyone to jump but regardless I wanted to make my sites more self-contained. I may try using GitHub Actions at some point and comparing them as well.

Migrating from Classic Pipelines to YAML Pipelines

If you have one, you can go to an existing pipeline in DevOps and click View YAML and get some YAML that will get you most of the way there but often includes some missing context or variables. The resulting YAML in my opinion isn't going to be as clean as what you can do from scratch, but it's worth looking at.

In decided to disable/pause my original pipeline and make a new one in parallel. Then I opened them side by side and recreated it. This let me learn more and the result ended up cleaner than I'd expected.

The YAML editor has a half-assed (sorry) visual designer on the right that basically has Tasks that will write a little chunk of YAML for you, but:

Once it's placed you're on your own

You can't edit it or modify it visually. It's text now.

If your cursor has the insert point in the wrong place it'll mess up your YAML

It's not smart

But it does provide a catalog of options and it does jumpstart things. Here's my YAML to build and publish a zip file (artifact) of my podcast site. Note that my podcast site is three projects, the site, a utility library, and some tests. I found these docs useful for building ASP.NET Core apps.

You'll see it triggers builds on the main branch. "Main" is the name of my primary GitHub branch. Yours likely differs.

It uses Ubuntu to do the build and it builds in Release mode. II

I install the .NET 3.1.x SDK for building my app, and I build it, then run the tests based on a globbing *tests pattern.

I do a self-contained publish using -r linux-x64 because I know my target App Service is Linux (it's cheaper) and it goes to the ArtifactStagingDirectory and I name it "hanselminutes." At this point it's a zip file in a folder in the sky.

Here it is:

trigger: - main pool: vmImage: 'ubuntu-latest' variables: buildConfiguration: 'Release' steps: - task: UseDotNet@2 displayName: ".NET Core 3.1.x" inputs: version: '3.1.x' packageType: sdk - task: UseDotNet@2 inputs: version: '3.1.x' - script: dotnet build --configuration $(buildConfiguration) displayName: 'dotnet build $(buildConfiguration)' - task: DotNetCoreCLI@2 displayName: "Test" inputs: command: test projects: '**/*tests/*.csproj' arguments: '--configuration $(buildConfiguration)' - task: DotNetCoreCLI@2 displayName: "Publish" inputs: command: 'publish' publishWebProjects: true arguments: '-r linux-x64 --configuration $(BuildConfiguration) --output $(Build.ArtifactStagingDirectory)' zipAfterPublish: true - task: PublishBuildArtifacts@1 displayName: "Upload Artifacts" inputs: pathtoPublish: '$(Build.ArtifactStagingDirectory)' artifactName: 'hanselminutes'

Next I move to the release pipeline. Now, you can also do the actual Azure Publish to a Web App/App Service from a YAML Build Pipeline. I suppose that's fine if your site/project is simple. I wanted to have dev/test/staging so I have a separate Release Pipeline.

The Release Pipelines system in Azure DevOps can pull an "Artifact" from anywhere - GitHub, DevOps itself natch, Jenkins, Docker Hub, whatever. I set mine up with a Continuous Deployment Trigger that makes a new release every time a build is available. I could also do Releases manually, with specific tags, scheduled, or gated if I'd liked.

Mine is super easy since it's just a website. It's got a single task in the Release Pipeline that does an Azure App Service Deploy. I can also deploy to a slot like Staging, then check it out, and then swap to Production later.

There's nice integration between Azure DevOps and the Azure Portal so I can see within Azure in the Deployment Center of my App Service that my deployments are working:

I've found this all to be a good use of my staycation and even though I'm just a one-person company I've been able to get a very nice automated build system set up at very low cost (GitHub free account for a private repo, 1800 free Azure DevOps minutes, and an App Service for Linux plan) A basic starts at $13 with 1.75Gb of RAM but I'm planning on moving all my sites over to a single big P1v2 with 3.5G of RAM and an SSD for around $80 a month. That should get all of my ~20 sites under one roof for a price/perf I can handle.

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