#surviving the methodology chapter

[untypicable]

Surviving the Methodology Chapter: A Guide for the Emotionally Shattered

Ah, the Methodology chapter: that noble, soul-crushing rite of passage every thesis writer must endure. If you’re currently drafting yours, congratulations! You’re somewhere between hopeful optimism and complete emotional devastation — and that’s perfectly normal. At untypicable, we don’t believe in sugar-coating academic trauma. Writing your methodology isn’t a logical step-by-step process;…

[koiukiy-o]

orphic; (adj.) mysterious and entrancing, beyond ordinary understanding. ─── 006. the phenomenologist.

-> summary: when you, a final-year student at the grove, get assigned to study under anaxagoras—one of the legendary seven sages—you know things are about to get interesting. but as the weeks go by, the line between correlation and causation starts to blur, and the more time you spend with professor anaxagoras, the more drawn to him you become in ways you never expected. the rules of the academy are clear, and the risks are an unfortunate possibility, but curiosity is a dangerous thing. and maybe, just maybe, some risks are worth taking. after all, isn’t every great discovery just a leap of faith? -> pairing: anaxa x gn!reader. -> tropes: professor x student, slow burn, forbidden romance. -> wc: 4.4k -> warnings: potential hsr spoilers from TB mission: "Light Slips the Gate, Shadow Greets the Throne" (3.1 update). main character is written to be 21+ years of age, at the very least. (anaxa is written to be around 26-27 years of age.) swearing, mature themes, suggestive content.

-> a/n: they exchange emails. i repeat. they exchange. emails!!! potential double update because the next part is 80% finished, hehe <3 i also wrote this chapter when i was on painkillers (and i still man) so if i sound like a DUMBASS in some parts i. it was not on purpose i swear. -> prev. || next. -> orphic; the masterlist.

Lunchtime rush has taken over the cafeteria. You sit tucked into a corner with Kira and Ilias, your tray pushed halfway aside, your drink sweating onto the wood between you.

Kira’s been nursing her tea for the past ten minutes, eyes half-closed, listening more than speaking. Her food sits untouched. Ilias, meanwhile, is attacking his fries like they insulted his ancestors. There’s a kind of intensity to it—surgical, almost reverent.

“Did they change the oil in these?” he mutters. “They taste like shit.”

You glance at him. “Then stop eating them?”

“Don’t tell me how to process pain.”

Kira snorts.

A clatter near the door draws your attention—trays, muffled apologies, the scuffle of shoes against tile. You glance over. Mydei and Phainon stand just inside, scanning the crowded room with the mild disappointment of people who’ve made peace with the fact that they’re not going to find a quiet spot.

There are no empty tables left.

Mydei catches your eye first. His gaze holds yours, half a question in it. Before you can think better of it, you lift your hand slightly in a wave and gesture to the open space on the bench beside you.

“There’s space here,” you say.

Phainon perks up like a dog hearing its leash jingle. He nudges Mydei forward with the edge of his tray, clearly done pretending to be patient.

“You’re sure?” Mydei asks, already sliding toward the end of the bench without waiting for a response.

Kira shifts slightly to make room, offering Mydei a small smile. “You’re not usually out here.”

You glance between them. “You guys know each other?”

“We share a class,” Phainon says, almost too quickly. “Philosophy.”

“Oh,” you say. “That sounds… interesting.�� 

Kira stifles a laugh, shrugging. “It’s not that bad. Once you get past the dread.”

“We had to spend an entire week arguing whether perception is a primary act or a constructed one,” Mydei adds, glancing up. “Phainon wrote his midterms in poetic verse.”

“He rhymed ‘intentionality’ with ‘banality,’” Kira says.

“And you gave it a B,” he points out.

“She peer-reviewed it,” Mydei says, jerking her chin toward Kira.

You blink. “Wait—students grade each other?”

Kira nods, twirling the packet between her fingers. “Sometimes. It’s part of the methodology. Subjectivity and all that.”

“That sounds fake.”

“No, ontology sounds fake,” Phainon says without missing a beat.

“They sit behind me,” Kira says, “and keep having whispered debates over whether Merleau-Ponty would’ve survived group work.”

“He wouldn’t have,” Phainon says, solemn.

Mydei picks at the corner of his sandwich. “He might’ve thrived.”

You raise an eyebrow. “And you don’t mind them talking behind you?”

Kira shrugs. “I correct them when they’re wrong.”

“He finds it sport,” Mydei murmurs, flicking his straw wrapper at Phainon.

“I would die for neither of them,” Kira adds after a moment, “but I would cite them.”

“High praise,” Phainon murmurs, looking genuinely touched.

There’s a beat of quiet, the kind that usually signals someone’s about to break into a joke—except Ilias doesn’t. He’s staring at Kira like she’s hung up the moon, eyes soft, brow faintly furrowed in something like awe. 

You glance at him, then back at her. She’s busy poking at the ice in her drink, oblivious.

“Oh my god,” you mutter under your breath, just loud enough for him to hear. “You’re hypnotized.”

“I am not,” he says, way too quickly.

You raise an eyebrow.

“I’m… admiring her academic rigor,” he adds weakly.

“Is that what we’re calling it?” 

Ilias groans and hides behind the menu. Kira, still completely unaware, crunches a piece of ice and asks if anyone wants to split dessert.

You're about to say yes, please, when a shadow falls across the table.

A flicker of awareness down your spine. Some instinctive ripple that tenses your shoulders before your mind even catches up.

You feel it before you see him.

Your head turns—too fast, on reflex. Eyes already landing on the figure passing between tables.

Professor Anaxagoras.

Your heart kicks once, too high in your chest. He’s not in his usual long coat. His sleeves are rolled to the elbow, collar slightly open, and the book in his arm looks worn at the edges. The woman walking beside him—elegant, composed, and unknown to you—matches his stride like they’ve been walking in step for years.

She moves like a dream you only half-remember—gliding by his side, wrapped in soft earth-toned fabric that shimmers faintly when the light catches it, like morning mist through tree branches. Her voice, low and melodic, curls around her shoulders, spilling down her back in lazy waves, pinned with something that’s shaped suspiciously like gold-tipped antlers, and her scent—something like old paper and wildflowers—lingers long after she’s gone. There’s a stillness to her, a gravity that pulls your attention without ever asking for it. She doesn’t need to raise her voice or call for silence—she could just look up, and the room would fall into reverent hush. And when her mouth moves, you almost forget that she—

Ilias lets out a low whistle under his breath, not loud, but pointed. “Damn.” Kira glares at him.

You don’t respond. Can’t, for a moment.

Anaxagoras walks past without pausing, the conversation between him and the woman low and self-contained. You catch a word or two—nothing sharp, nothing you could hold on to. 

“Who was that?” Kira murmurs, eyes still following their backs.

Phainon, who hadn’t seemed particularly alert, straightens faintly. “Cerces,” he says, tone low but certain. “She used to guest lecture. Phenomenology.”

Mydei doesn’t look up. “She was supposed to take a position here last year. Didn’t.”

It starts like a pinprick, something almost too small to name. 

You glance toward the table where they’ve just sat—tucked near the back, partially shielded by a wooden column. 

She’s speaking, but her tone is too quiet, and Anaxagoras doesn’t look like he’s listening, so much as… enduring.

A slight shifting in your chest, a tensing in your jaw. Your gaze drifts—too often, too long—toward the corner table where Anaxagoras sits with her. Cerces.

Kira murmurs. “Are they… friends?”

“Not unless you count hostility as a form of bonding,” Mydei says without looking up.

“They hate each other?” Ilias asks.

“They disagree on principle,” Mydei replies. “She called his lecture on spatial memory ‘a diluted myth disguised as hypothesis’ once.” 

Phainon lifts his head slightly, blinking at the table. “Is that not flirting?”

You give him a look. 

Ilias snorts at your reaction.

Phainon shrugs, resting his head on his arms again. “Just saying.”

Anaxagoras isn’t smiling. Cerces never does, apparently. 

You glance back over to the corner booth, where Anaxagoras and Cerces are still sitting, barely exchanging words but clearly in some sort of intense standoff. She speaks with measured precision, and Anaxagoras listens—almost too intently.

Like he’s hanging on her every word.

For some reason, you can’t stop looking. You’re not sure why, but something about it bothers you. Anaxagoras, as unreachable as he is, sitting with someone else like that—it doesn’t sit well.

(Why doesn’t it sit well?)

You don’t even notice how your gaze hardens until Ilias speaks up.

“I thought you were the only one he bantered with,” he says suggestively, though there’s a sharp edge to his voice. It’s off-hand, but the tone feels pointed.

You snap your attention back to him, eyes flicking to Ilias, then to Kira, and finally to Mydei, who’s still half-focused on his andwich. It’s not what he says—it’s how it feels, like he’s digging his finger into a gaping wound in your chest.

“What?” you say, the word coming out a little more defensive than you’d like. "What do you mean?"

Ilias raises an eyebrow, eyes gleaming with a bit of mischief, but he looks like he’s holding back a comment. “Oh, nothing. Just that—well, I thought it was kind of your thing with him, y’know?”

Logically, of course, it’s not just you. It never was. Anaxagoras is a professor, and a professional one at that. He interacts with plenty of people. You were never the only one. But why does it bother you so much now? Why does seeing him there with Cerces feel like something you were supposed to have? Hell, you’ve only been his student for a couple weeks.

Then, from behind you, Phainon’s voice breaks the silence, casually chiming in. “You know, you and Anaxagoras would be a good match.”

Your head snaps around to him, eyes wide, caught completely off guard. You try to catch your breath, but your heart suddenly seems to be beating a little too fast. What did he mean by that? The words feel heavy in your chest, but you can’t quite explain why. You shake your head, trying to brush it off, but you can’t stop the small pang of unease that bubbles up.

Mydei, sitting beside Phainon, glances at him sharply, narrowing his eyes, but the clueless guy keeps munching on his food, completely unaware. 

Ilias brightens. “That’s what I’ve been saying!” 

Kira, meanwhile, shifts in her seat, a thoughtful smirk pulling at the corners of her lips. “I can see it, actually,” she says, leaning toward you and giving you a look that’s half-encouraging, half-teasing. “You two would have that whole academic rivalry thing going on. Very couple energy.”

Her smirk grows as she watches you react. The comment is light, but you can feel the sting of it.

And of course, Ilias adds to it. His grin is too wide, too knowing. “Late-night debates and discussions on the meaning of the universe... sounds like a dream weekend to me.”

Your pulse picks up speed at the thought, and suddenly, you’re on edge, wondering why this is even a thing now. Your mind races with thoughts that you can’t quiet: why is it bothering you? Why is it bothering you this much?

Is it bothering you? 

You shift in your seat, trying to keep your face neutral, but the flush creeping up your neck betrays you. “It’s not like that,” you mutter, your words defensive, even to your own ears. You don’t know why you feel so worked up.

Ilias notices the shift in your tone, the subtle defensiveness in your voice. His grin widens, and he leans forward, clearly enjoying the discomfort he’s stirred up.

You’re too aware of the heat rising in your face. “I’m not—” you snap, perhaps a little too sharply. “You’re being illogical. We’re students, he’s a professor. Our professor. And he’s not even my type—”

Ilias, clearly enjoying this, leans back in his seat with a dramatic flourish, one hand raised as if making a grand announcement. “You know,” he says, his voice dropping to a near-whisper, “I think I’ve figured it out.”

You glance at him, raising an eyebrow. “Figured what out?”

“You.” He pauses, letting the words hang in the air for just a moment, before leaning in closer, his grin mischievous. “I don’t think it’s Professor Anaxagoras himself. Oh no, no, no. You’ve fallen victim to something far worse.”

You cross your arms, giving him an exasperated look, but choosing to play along. “And that is?”

“You’ve fallen for his mind,” Ilias says, lowering his voice as if he’s revealing some deep, untold secret. “That black hole of academia. The more you resist, the more it pulls you in. You, my friend, are powerless against the seductive pull of his— of his lectures!” He pauses for dramatic effect, letting the silence linger. “It’s inevitable. You’re already caught in his gravitational field.”

You roll your eyes, trying to keep a straight face, but it’s hard when he looks so pleased with himself. “Ilias, you really need to stop watching sci-fi movies. You’re starting to sound like—”

He ignores you, continuing on in full dramatic flair. “I’m telling you, it’s like you’re destined for this. Like some tragic hero—fated to fall for the untouchable professor.”

You squint at him. “Ilias—”

“Star-crossed lovers, of course that’s what you are.” He raises his hand dramatically, as if making a proclamation. “The one who must suffer in silence, tortured by their own growing attraction while the object of their affection remains completely oblivious!”

You stare at him, half-annoyed, half-amused. “Okay, Romeo, calm down. I’m not falling for anyone, especially not Anaxagoras. He’s our professor.”

“Oh, please,” Ilias scoffs, flipping his fries around on his plate. “That’s the classic denial phase. It’s always like this. First, it’s ‘He’s a professor, this isn’t real,’ and then it’s ‘Oh no, I’m just interested in his intellectual prowess.’ And the next thing you know, you’re writing him anonymous love ;letters about the meaning of life.”

You choke on your drink. “What?!”

Ilias leans back smugly, clearly relishing your reaction. “That’s the part I’m really looking forward to,” he says, completely unbothered by the chaos he’s creating. “The dramatic confessions of forbidden love. You’ll be at the front of the lecture hall, staring at him with those eyes—the ones you don’t even realize you’re doing—until one day, you slip and—bam!—an accidental ‘—Because I love you!’ in the middle of a class discussion.”

You nearly spit your drink out at the absurdity of it all. “Oh my God, Ilias, shut up. That is not—”

“Oh, it will happen,” he says confidently, nodding like he’s just cracked the code of your life. “I can see it now. ‘Professor Anaxagoras, I can’t live without your...philosophical insights...’"

Your face burns even more now, and you throw a napkin at him. “You are insufferable.”

Ilias catches it mid-air and theatrically wipes his brow, pretending to be exhausted by the sheer drama of his own predictions. “Oh, I know. But it’s all part of my genius,” he says smugly. “You’ll thank me when you end up in a tangled, academic love triangle involving forgotten artifacts and ancient texts.”

You roll your eyes, trying not to smile. “Not gonna happen.”

“You say that now,” he says with a smirk. “But I’ll be here when it all goes down. You’ll come crawling to me for advice on how to handle the tension.”

You eyes automatically glance over at the table where Anaxagoras and Cerces are still sitting, and without meaning to, your stomach tightens just a little. 

Ilias notices the shift in your expression immediately, his grin widening again. “Oh! What’s this? A little moment of clarity? I can feel it! Your heart’s racing, isn’t it?”

“No,” you mutter, looking away quickly, but the playful glint in his eyes makes you want to strangle him.

“You can’t hide it forever, my friend,” he says, tapping his finger against the table. “The romance is coming. The fated love between the professor and the student, like something out of a tragic novel. And when it happens? Oh, I’ll be the first to say ‘I told you so.’”

Kira, who’s been quietly listening to the whole exchange, smiles at Ilias in that quiet, amused way she does. For a moment, her eyes are soft, entranced by his antics.

Ilias doesn’t notice, of course. He’s too busy reveling in the thought of his own brilliance. “And when you’re finally ready to confess, I’ll be there. Right behind you, cheering you on. I’ll be your emotional support coach. Don’t worry.”

You groan, slumping forward. “Please stop.”

“Fine, fine.” Ilias leans back, clearly not done but pretending to be. “But you know the truth, deep down.” He lowers his voice to a whisper again. “You’re already halfway there. And when the sparks fly... don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

You fight to keep the smile off your face, but it’s impossible. “You’re unbelievable.”

Phainon, who’s been slumped halfway over his tray like a cat napping in a sunbeam, lifts his head at last, amused. He says lazily, “Ilias managed to build an entire three-act tragedy in the time it took me to finish my sandwich. I’m surprised.”

“Don’t encourage him,” you say flatly.

Phainon ignores you. “So what’s the title? Ode to a Lecture Hall Affair? Or A Treatise on Yearning, Featuring Poor Life Choices?”

“I like that second one,” Mydei says, without looking up. “Could be a bestseller if it comes with footnotes.”

Ilias snaps his fingers at both of them. “Finally. Some cultured taste.”

“You’re literally projecting an academic romance onto the person least likely to pursue such a thing.” Mydei deadpans, still not looking up.

“That’s how all the best ones start,” Ilias says with a wink. “Tragic self-denial. Emotional repression. That’s the good stuff. You think I want this story to be healthy?”

Phainon tilts his head at you, tone suddenly a little too calm. “So. Do you like Naxie?”

You nearly choke. “What?! No— …N- Naxie?” 

“Mm,” Phainon hums, as if making a mental note, completely ignoring the question in your tone. “That sounded like a lie.”

You sit up straighter, voice too quick. “It’s not a lie. I don’t have feelings for him.”

Ilias finally looks up with a beaming smile. “You only get that loud when you're trying to convince someone, and in this case, it is yourself!” 

“I am not loud,” you snap. “And I am not trying to convince myself of anything. There is nothing to convince myself of.”

“You’re so flustered right now it’s almost poetic,” Ilias says, grinning ear to ear. “Like watching  tower of logic collapse in real time. It’s beautiful.”

Mydei hums thoughtfully. “I wonder what Anaxagoras would say if he heard this.”

You freeze, throwing your head back to look at his table.

 Kira bites back a laugh. Ilias gasps dramatically.

“Oh please,” he says, clutching his chest like he’s just been shot. “If he heard this? He’d probably just blink in ancient Greek and then spend fifteen minutes dissecting the philosophical implications of desire as a failed mode of cognition.”

Phainon wheezes, practically howls at that, “And- and he’d do the thing,” he adds, his voice breathless, “Where he raises an eyebrow and smirks at you and then pauses for exactly four seconds.”

Kira giggles quietly. Ilias points like he’s struck gold, practically screams— “Exactly! The pause! The man weaponizes silence like it’s part of the syllabus.”

As if on cue, from the other side of the room, Anaxagoras shifts slightly in his seat—one subtle glance cast toward your table, recognizing the voice. Not long. Just a flicker of movement, but it’s enough. His eyes land on Ilias—still half-mid-monologue—then slide to you. 

He nods in acknowledgement. 

You nod back.

He smirks.

 And looks away.

Cerces doesn’t glance over. She sits serene and unaffected, like her presence was never meant to interact with the world around her.

You’re too aware of the sharp prickle under your skin. You feel wrecked, utterly wrecked, even after he looks away.

Ilias notices. Of course he does.

Your eyes widen at his face, and you contemplate dragging his drama-ridden soul into the nearest chalk circle and trapping him there with nothing but an introductory ethics textbook and a looping recording of Anaxagoras’ driest lecture on epistemological drift.

Or maybe you'd just pin him to a whiteboard and force him to define “romantic projection” in front of the class while Kira holds up increasingly incriminating flashcards titled Things You’ve Said Out Loud.

 “You’re not even subtle,” you mutter, eyeing him like you’re mentally selecting a power drill.

Ilias grins, unbothered. “Subtlety is for people who don’t have prophetic insight.”

“You’re a menace.”

“I’m a visionary,” he corrects, reaching for another fry with the smugness of someone who just cast a match into a very flammable bush.

You make a low noise, possibly a groan, possibly the sound of his spirit exiting his body. “If you keep talking,” you say without lifting your head, “I will hex your shoes to squeak every third step.”

“I’ll do it,” Mydei says. 

Ilias throws his hands up. “You’re all just mad because I’m right.”

You glare at him. “I’m mad because you’re loud.”

Ilias points at you like he’s presenting a final thesis. “And yet—flushed cheeks. Shifty glances. Heightened vocal pitch.” He sets his hands down with finality, attitude dripping in his gaze. “The data is there. I’m merely analyzing it.”

Kira sips from her drink with the serene expression of someone watching a documentary on slow-burning disasters. “I think you should be very afraid,” she tells him lightly, smiling. “I think they’re planning your downfall.”

“Please,” Ilias says, waving a hand. “If they wanted me gone, I’d already be framed for something weirdly specific.” He raises his voice for the rest of the table, almost announcing, “Don’t be surprised if I wake up one morning and am suddenly framed for impersonating a tenured professor in order to smuggle a haunted relic into the archives!” 

Before Ilias can spiral into another dramatic reenactment of his imaginary academic crimes, a quiet hush rolls over the table.

You look up.

Professor Anaxagoras.

He stands just behind Ilias, hands folded neatly behind his back, a ghost of amusement curling at the corner of his mouth like he’d been standing there long enough to hear something he shouldn’t have. His gaze flicks briefly over the group, then settles on you—warm, sharp, and startlingly direct.

“I must admit,” he says lightly, voice like dry parchment curling in a fireplace, “that’s disturbingly plausible.”

Kira makes a sound—half choke, half squeak—and Ilias nearly drops his drink. Mydei straightens just slightly. Phainon blinks up at Anaxagoras like he’s not entirely convinced he’s real.

You forget how to breathe.

Anaxagoras raises an eyebrow at you in mild inquiry. “When are you turning in your application?”

Your confusion must show, because his brow lifts just a fraction higher, something unreadable flickering in his expression. He waits.

You blink. “I’m not applying. Professor.”

It’s quiet for a beat too long.

His eyes widen—only slightly, but enough to notice. Then something more subtle shifts in his expression, as if the air around him has rearranged itself. He tilts his head, his gaze narrowing just a fraction. Then—unexpectedly—he smiles.

Not the cold, amused smile he offers to half-baked arguments in lecture, or the small polite one he reserves for administrative nonsense.

This one feels different. Quiet. Introspective. Like you’ve said something that has genuinely surprised him.

“Would you excuse us for a moment?” he says, addressing the table but looking only at you. “A word.”

Kira glances at you, and Ilias makes a dramatic slicing motion across his throat like he’s already composing your eulogy. Phainon props his chin on his hands, watching with all the intensity of a wildlife observer about to witness a rare predator interaction.

Your heart kicks up hard, then stumbles.

 You stand slowly.

“Sure,” you say, not sure at all.

Anaxagoras steps aside, letting you pass, his presence folding into the space beside you with such unassuming weight that the rest of the world suddenly feels quiet.

Behind you, Ilias mutters, “He pulled the ‘a word’ move! I’m going to eat this fry solemnly, in case it’s the last one I ever share with them.”

Kira shushes him with a swat.

You walk just a few paces before he speaks, voice low and deliberate.

“You’re not applying,” he repeats. Not a question. A repetition for clarity. For the sake of confirming it aloud.

“No,” you say softly. “I’m not. I was never going to.”

That gets his attention. His eyes cut back to you, something almost imperceptibly shifting in his posture. “No?”

“Studies on consciousness isn’t my field of study,” you say, level. “And I’m not interested in pretending it is for the sake of a symposium.”

He considers that, expression unreadable. “A reasonable position. If a narrow one.”

You raise an eyebrow at that. “I’m not sure being selective with my time is narrow.”

“Selective,” he echoes mildly. “Or avoidant?”

You exhale through your nose. “I just don’t see the value in wasting my time on something I don't care about in a symposium I don’t want to attend.”

He tilts his head. “Cerces is one of the most rigorous thinkers in the field. Even those outside her discipline benefit from her lens.”

You squint at him, not bothering to mask the skepticism in your tone. “I thought you didn’t agree with her methods.”

There’s the briefest pause, the lightest shift in his expression. Then, without missing a beat:  

“Disagreement doesn’t preclude respect.”

“Right,” you say flatly. “That’s what everyone says about their academic rivals.”

His mouth twitches at that—barely. “Have you been reading up on me?”

You blink, caught off guard by the shift in tone. His voice is playful—but there’s a glint of challenge there. You recover fast.

“No,” you say, a little too quickly. “One of her students brought it up. Just now. In passing.” You clear your throat, glance away, and add on awkwardly, “—Professor.”

He doesn’t comment. Just watches you with an amused glint in his eyes.

“You might change your mind,” he pauses, “I’d like you to read a few papers.” He says with a finality.

You cross your arms. “You’re suggesting I read Cerces?”

“I’m suggesting, you examine the argument before rejecting the premise.” He lets the words settle for a beat. “I will send you a couple. You can draw your own conclusions.”

There’s a pause. One breath. Two.

You hesitate. “Fine.”

“I’ll need your email.”

You rattle it off without looking at him, the syllables falling out in practiced order, a thin attempt at professionalism. He offers his phone without a word, calm and unreadable, and you take it before you can think twice.

You type—carefully, trying not to fumble—but your pulse stutters anyway.

When you hand it back, his fingers brush yours.

Barely. A blink. A breath.

But it jolts through you like static, immediate and stupidly vivid. You freeze, absurdly aware of how warm his hand is, how close his attention suddenly feels even though he’s barely moved.

It was nothing. Just skin.

But your brain short-circuits like it’s something else entirely, and now you’re hyper aware of everything—the silence, the distance between you, the way your stomach tightens for no logical reason whatsoever.

You don’t look at him. You refuse to look at him.

He takes the phone back, and his voice is quiet. “I’ll forward them tonight.”

You nod, hoping he doesn’t notice how tense your shoulders are. “Okay,” you say, and your voice comes out a little too soft.

You hate how your face feels warm.

“Thanks.”

He gives you a sharp nod, turning back already.

His eyes flick back to you once—just once—before he returns to the booth, slipping back into the conversation with Cerces like nothing ever happened.

You stay where you are, steadying your breath.

What the hell?

-> next.

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[salty-tang]

off the record: The Internet Reacts to that Photo

Congressman!Bucky Barnes x Congresswoman!Reader

A/N: you will be a quite lost if you haven't read chapter 3 of FTR and the photo

Summary: the internet reacts to the publication of that damning photo

Warnings/ tags: Original Characters galore, Companion Piece, side fic, Outtakes & Deleted Scenes, Non-Linear Narrative, Capitol Hill Greek Chorus, Interns with Too Much Time and Too Many Opinions, Government Staffers as Narrative Devices, Gossip as Archival Methodology, If It Was Cut It Was Probably Too Soft or Too Real, text-fic (tweets, headlines, slack messages)

Word count: 665

off the record masterpost || AO3 || congressman bucky masterpost

It’s nearly 1 a.m. when they finish drafting the joint statement, the overhead lights dimmed to a low hum that makes the Capitol office feel less like government and more like a waiting room for bad news. Derek clicks save, exhales like it’s the end of a negotiation, not a beginning. Mike leans back in his chair, thumb hovering over the schedule-send button.

"Maybe it won’t catch," Mike says after a beat, too casually. Derek glances at the empty hallway beyond the glass. "Now you’ve said it," he mutters. "You’ve jinxed it."

Mike nods like he wants to believe that it wouldn't. Like maybe the statement will go out with the sunrise and dissolve by lunch, buried beneath actual policy news. Like maybe no one noticed the way Barnes looked at her. Or the pause before she walked away.

He schedules the release for 8:03 a.m. Sharp. Reasonable. Respectable.

Neither of them say the obvious - it’s probably already too late.

📰 A selection of Morning Headlines 📰

POLITICO Playbook PM: Blurred Lines on the Hill: Barnes & [REDACTED] Caught in After-Hours Close-Up

A leaked hallway video shows the freshman Congressman and a rising committee lead sharing what some are calling a “moment.” Neither office has commented. Hill aides claim it was “strictly procedural.” Sure, Jan.

The Cut: The Sexual Tension in This Capitol Video Could Power the Entire State of New York

“Goodnight, Congressman.” The way she says it? The way he looks? It’s giving ‘I’d resign for you.’

Vulture (Pop Politics Desk): Live. Laugh. Legislate. Lust?

Bucky Barnes' metal arm wasn't the most magnetic thing in the room—his eyes were.

The Federalist: BREAKING: Leaked Video Raises Ethical Concerns Around Personal Conduct on the Hill

“This level of impropriety undermines Congressional integrity,” says anonymous source who is almost definitely Rep Whitmore (R-TX).

🐦 Trending on Twitter 🐦 

romantic moments in american politics @ CapitolCrushes • 3 hours ago

I want someone to look at me the way Bucky Barnes looks at her after she says “Goodnight, Congressman.”

[Attached: grainy still of him half-reaching, soft-eyed]

241 replies • 9k retweets • 34k likes

just anne @ WakeupPolitics • 2 hours ago

Not to be dramatic but if I said “Goodnight, Congressman” in that tone and he reached for me I would’ve filed for joint taxes the next day

93 replies • 1.3k retweets • 4k likes

Fishhands @ CivicsForSadGirls • 2 hours ago

Can someone write a legal analysis of how that look constitutes a binding emotional contract?

58 replies • 968 retweets • 2.1k likes

Jenna Kang @ kangressional • 42 minutes ago

“Speculative emotional narratives” is such a poetic way to say “we fell in love in a hallway but neither of us will admit it.”

Anyways good morning America 🌞

3.4k replies • 12.1k retweets • 27.8k likes

Kurt Vox @ TruePatriotZ34 • 40 minutes ago replying to @ kangressional

wild how interns these days think it’s appropriate to gossip about elected officials. Have some respect. Maybe log off and learn how Congress works instead of writing fanfic in the quote tweets.

1 reply • 1 retweet •3 likes

Jenna Kang @ kangressional • 39 minutes ago replying to @ TruePatriotZ34

I literally work here sir. I’ve seen that hallway. You wouldn’t survive it.

4 replies • 652 retweets • 1.2k likes

Kurt Vox @ TruePatriotZ34 • 38 minutes ago replying to @ kangressional

Oh I bet you have. Real professional. Keep tweeting your little crush theories while the rest of us try to save the country.

1 reply • 2 retweet • 7 likes

Jenna Kang @ kangressional • 38 minutes ago replying to @ TruePatriotZ34

I think you should focus on your receding hairline first I promise the country will be just fine without you here 😊

139 replies • 652 retweets • 27.3k likes

AJ @ajroids • 37 minutes ago replying to @ kangressional

RATIO HIM

232 replies • 458 retweets • 2.8k likes

STREAM ECHO7 @ KimDaily • 36 minutes ago replying to @ kangressional

[fancam of j-hope dancing at his recent concert]

anyways stream jhope’s new single killin’ it girl (ft. GloRilla) and stop embarrassing yourself @ TruePatriotZ34 they are literally in love   

1 reply • 547 retweets • 1.6k likes

Kurt Vox @ TruePatriotZ34 • 34 minutes ago replying to @ kangressional

you people are unwell. it’s a photo.

1 reply • 0 retweets • 2 likes

Jenna Kang @ kangressional • 33 minutes ago replying to @ TruePatriotZ34

and yet here you are, 8 tweets deep, fighting a woman who knows what shoes the Congresswoman was wearing and why he looked down when she said goodnight

you log off and touch some grass

5 replies • 137 retweets • 2.8k likes

JOINT STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICES OF REPRESENTATIVE [REDACTED] AND CONGRESSMAN BUCKY BARNES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: [SUMMIT DATE +1]

RE: Circulating Image from the New America Leadership Summit

In response to the recent publication and online dissemination of a still image captured during the New America Leadership Summit, the offices of Representative [REDACTED] and Congressman James B. Barnes jointly issue the following statement:

The image in question was taken in a public hallway of the Summit venue, immediately following a closed-door policy briefing on post-Blip economic revitalization. The brief exchange depicted—captioned without consent or context—is being mischaracterized in a manner that distracts from the purpose and integrity of the summit itself.

To clarify:

No part of the interaction was unscheduled, unprofessional, or outside the bounds of standard Congressional engagement.

No ethical guidelines were breached.

Both members were departing for pre-scheduled breakout panels at the time of the photo.

No further comment will be made on internal staff dynamics or fabricated “body language analyses” circulating on social media platforms.

We remind the press and public that Representatives are frequently photographed in transitional spaces during high-profile events. Isolated visual frames are not reflective of professional relationships, policy priorities, or personal conduct.

Both offices remain focused on the pressing legislative work their constituents elected them to pursue. Speculative narratives, regardless of tone or intent, only serve to distract from ongoing recovery efforts and the real issues facing the American people.

We urge all parties to exercise caution, restraint, and basic digital literacy when engaging with doctored or decontextualized media.

For official inquiries, please contact:

Mike Castillo (Communications Director, Office of Congressman Barnes)

Derek Chang (Chief of Staff, Office of Representative [REDACTED])

[CONTACT DETAILS REDACTED]

📰 Headlines Responding to the Press Release 📰

The Cut (again, instantly): Hallway Lighting, Facial Expressions, and Other Crimes of Attraction

"We weren’t thinking about lighting. We were thinking about longing. And now we’re thinking about why that press release felt like it was written by someone slowly losing their grip on a swivel chair."

BuzzFeed Politics: The Congressional Ship of the Century Just Got Denied. Which Means It’s Real.

A strongly-worded statement is the Capitol equivalent of a soft launch.

The Hill: Barnes, [REDACTED] Deny Speculation After Summit Photo Circulates

The joint press statement from both offices called the public response “speculative” and “categorically inaccurate.” Twitter had other ideas.

Teen Vogue: Love in the Time of Appropriations Hearings?

The way he looked at her. The way she said "Goodnight, Congressman." We're not saying it's real. We're saying it’s Congress-core.

🐦 Twitter Continues to Misbehave – a selection of Replies Under the Official Account🐦

xoxo @ govgossipgirl

mike and derek: issues press release saying it’s not romantic

everyone else: ok but have you considered we can all pick up on the vibes

Slow Burn on the Hill @ slowburnhill

the press release used the phrase speculative emotional narratives.

girl just say you saw the way he looked at her and we can all move on

Just for fun @CSPANfanfic

If the press release was meant to kill the story, then why did it read like a declaration of sexual tension in legalese??

📱 The Intern Slack 📱

#damage-control-but-romantic

[Mills]: Do you think he meant to reach for her?? Or was it like… reflexive yearning??? [Micah]: Reflexive yearning is going on theoffice moodboard [Jenna]: I played it frame by frame. The hand twitch is real. The tenderness is real. I hate it here [Devon]: Also unrelated but when is the next hallway chat and where do we stand to maybe get another angle [Mills]: I’m literally shaking this has crushed me. If they ever kiss I’m quitting. No fanfic I write will ever compare [Micah]: Ya’ll saw the press release right? It’s giving First Lady soft launch. It’s giving joint denial as foreplay [Devon]: Okay but “fabricated body language analyses”?? I wrote one of those. And it got 1438 upvotes [Jenna]: Who do we have to bribe to get the actual security tape. Asking academically [Devon]: I think I know someone who knows someone in security [Mills]: I’m not saying I believe in love but I am saying if they touch hands on C-SPAN I will ascend [Micah]: Also? “Speculative emotional narratives” is now my Tinder bio [Micah]: Thank you Derek

<< 3. The Photo (You Might Want a Copy of This) || AO3

[silkchiffoner]

i'm about to crash out... i've got a rationale, methodology, and risk assesment to conduct for bio due in the morning that i'm writing now, i have an english scaffold, drama draft, legal studies speech, and c&j coursework to do this week... and the only reason i have not died is because i told myself that i can read my ao3 jackieshauna au after i survive friday classes (it's an active fic so i have 2 unread chapters currently.... i lock in 4 jackieshauna...)

[codenamesazanka]

extremely questionable methodology but i compiled all the dialogue spoken between Shigaraki and Deku starting from when Shigaraki breaks out of AFO’s control in Chapter 379 up to Chapter 412.

(There are chapters where they appear but do not speak. Those are the chapter numbers.)

The takeaway is that Shigaraki is extremely chatty! A lot of it is taunts, but Shigaraki’s also revealing a lot of stuff about his plans and his opinions.

Deku does not seem as interested in returning the conversation, however. Whenever he does speak, it’s less in response to any of the content of Shigaraki’s chatter, and more heroic statements of intent. (The ‘you’re still human’ is the only direct refutation, I think.)

To be fair, his focus is all on surviving Shigaraki’s attacks. Nearly all his internal thoughts are strategy - combining a quirk with this quirk, how exactly he can physically stop Shigaraki. Additionally, before Chapter 410, he was probably too worried about All Might; while for most of Chapter 412, he was asphyxiating. Hard to chat when so much shit is happening.

And you can argue Shigaraki is just Villain monologuing. Deku doesn’t have to pay attention to anything he says - a lot which are, after all, taunts - he doesn’t have to engage with Shigaraki’s dumb rants.

His goal is to save Shigaraki/The Crying Child, and only that - not like talking or asking questions about anything or responding is required for that.

[sylfen]

Inversion: Ch. 8 - Give and take

Chapter 1 ←Previous Next→ On Ao3.

Relationships: Ramattra/Genji Shimada, Cole Cassidy/Hanzo Shimada

In the quiet box of a prison, another hour rolled over. 

Ramattra did not notice, gone to the world in his deep, trance-like state. Meditation, as the Shambali had taught it, was a helpful tool to part with worldly woes. A simple practice to adopt, yet deceptively hard to master and achieve spiritual equilibrium.

Ramattra, however, was in need of no such thing. Wandering through freezing mountains, scorching deserts and sinful cities, he had concluded his goal was not one of inner peace. He came to reject that which he considered weakness in the face of obligation; resolve must be tempered to mantle a responsibility beyond scope, of which personal fulfillment would only stand in the way. 

Therefore, oil-slicked hands had molded the Shambali dharma into its antithesis: A weapon.

In his mindscape—an intangible realm of digital—endless spectra of thoughts and possibilities vied for attention. Ramattra's psyche was a prism, through which the muddy stream of sentience turned clear, crystallizing into separate structures flickering all around him. These, when tapped into with a psychic eye, parted with their essence, the core of their idea.

This was a period of distance, away from limiters such as emotion. With a shift of Shambali hand gestures, the sentimental crumbled in a snap, leaving only logic. These remainders, of methodology and epiphanies, these he combed through. Sorted them into appropriate rows, a grid of virtual soldiers standing at attention, awaiting further shaping through criticism and hindsight.

Most ideas would never survive this process, too flawed to consider. Today would be no exception. But unlike times past, his present predicament was wholly unique, and in contrast, the numbers dwindled. Steadily, until left behind was a sole contender.

It was offered a single glance, and Ramattra concluded he did not want this one.

Again, he centered himself. Embraced the chaos of sentience. Distanced himself, then sifted through cold logic. Studied them all just the slightest bit closer, opening himself to possibilities otherwise shot down without remorse. 

Still, when finished, only that one remained. And he tried, again and again, only to arrive at the same result, and at some point, he lost count of his attempts. 

Gradually, a shrill ringing fell over his hearing, drawing focus with it; a cue to return to the waking world. Uncertain of what lay beyond this trance, never having dared venture further, Ramattra did not wish to gamble his mind and devolve into an endless loop of considerations. 

Before him, the digital pyramid spun slowly. Invitingly and tauntingly, a dare to chance its contents. 

Gingerly, he conceded. He extended a spectral arm, transparent fingers alighting atop the glimmering surface. 

Hours earlier, Ramattra would never have entertained it. Nor would he have considered that twisting the Shambali dharma would prove to be as much a weapon against himself as his enemies. Found within that spinning data point was memories just shy of a few days old; they punched through his system, relentlessly flashing, all caustic reminders of defeat, as per definition: The attempted assassination, the theft of his Void Accelerator, Zenyatta’s affliction, the destruction of Null Sector’s Iris, and his ensuing imprisonment.  

Yet, hidden amongst the setbacks, there lay the solution. Highlighted in every frame of memory, a promise that this did not have to be the end, that all was not lost. A variable, which could alter the course he had found himself in. 

“Ramattra.”

Snapped out of his reverie, Ramattra had not heard the low hum of electricity die off, nor the parting of doors. 

And there he was. The auspicious premium, for Ramattra to steal away all for himself. 

Genji.

The agent shifted awkwardly, bouncing his weight in between feet. Tension and restlessness radiated off him in waves, and Ramattra surmised he had returned fresh off a mission. Until an item was presented, held out rigidly in offering. A small, green, metal case. 

Genji’s fidgeting, together with the mysterious charity, curled Ramattra’s wires with paranoia. He reared back, regarding the item with suspicion, ready to be overwhelmed with demands and stipulations.

“For your arm,” Genji assured, taking an encouraging step forward. “As I said earlier, none of our engineers are present, so... This is what I can offer you.”

Ramattra inclined his head, patently taken off-guard. Still convinced of illicit goals, fingers curled slowly around the case, testing, as if it would produce a shock or something much more insidious. When nothing happened, and suspicions receded, the offering was accepted with hesitance despite eagerness to get to work.

“This can hardly be proper protocol,” Ramattra remarked as he set the case on a knee, still scanning over it for any hint of malicious intent.

“Probably not. It's at my own discretion,” Genji said indifferently, giving a noncommittal shrug.

Duly noting the attitude toward authority, the case was flicked open, Ramattra's eyes drawn to the kanji symbols engraved into the metal. Nigh instantly, his HUD translated them.

     For Genji

     -Hanzo

He briefly considered who Hanzo could be. A superior? Perhaps an old friend? A brother in arms? Such a considerate and tasteful gift spoke of no mere acquaintanceship. 

Contrastingly less refined were the stickers placed around the insides, depicting stylized triceratops in pastels. Cotton candy cute. Not what he would have expected based on his perception of the stoic ninja. Perhaps there were facets unconsidered.

Poring over the actual contents, Ramattra noted the selection of tools were specifically tailored to basic repairs. Personal travel paraphernalia, then. Not the most efficient way to fix damage, but invaluable out on the field, even more so in his predicament. Excitement pitter-pattered in his wires for a chance to tinker, and in spite of the reluctant gratitude he felt for the gesture, the need to be derisive was stronger.

“A quick, hour-long job drawn out to last more than a day.” Ramattra pulled his inert limb into an appropriate position. “You Overwatch scum certainly have a talent for turning the easiest of tasks into a chore.”

Genji chuckled in a way that told he had more up his sleeve. “Longer than that without this,” he said, producing a plastic container from his pocket, holding it securely between index and middle finger. As he moved closer, he wagged it to-and-fro, a mannerism rooted in good-natured teasing. “I recognized the part when I checked your diagnostics.”

“How fortunate I am.” Attempting to unlatch the panel covering his forearm, the limb slipped off Ramattra’s lap and he irritably shuffled it back into place. “What other lucky coincidence do you have for me today?”

Genji gave a tame snort. “Nothing more.” A beat passed, then he dipped down onto his knees, curled his hands around Ramattra's wrist and forearm to lock the limb in place. “Let me help you.”

With a dismissive click of his synthesizer, Ramattra struck the notion down. “Help would be to leave the door unlocked. This is a mere pittance.”

“Do you often complain at acts of kindness?”

From under the voided slits of his faceplate, Ramattra glared at the agent, who let the look bounce off him harmlessly. “Acts of kindness? This?” A scoff. “I shudder to think what you consider rude.”

“Accepting help without a thank you.”

“Very cute. I assume you feel clever.”

Genji nodded confidently, arrogance lacing his reply. “I do.”

In between the interplay of words, the broken arm was promptly forgotten about. With his pointer, Ramattra jabbed at Genji’s chest, but much like the glare, it was patently ignored.

“Such behavior is in need of correcting.”

“Yeah? Speaking of correcting.”

Ramattra froze, neither flinching nor drawing away at the fingers touching the crack in his mask. 

“What about your faceplate? It can’t be left like this.”

Such audacity. Such disrespect. Such—such brazen, misplaced empathy!

Empathy, Ramattra realized. Yes, that was what was needed; an involuntary, insidious connector, an aspect which could ease his plans. So despite the imprudent dare, Ramattra sat still, indulged the whim and allowed the digits to roam across his face. 

The touch was reverent. As the bronze pads moved, they were deceptively soft and warm, molding to pressure and springing back into shape when relieved of stress. Very subtly, almost imperceptibly, Ramattra leaned into the touch. Emboldened by the quiet consent, Genji carefully traced the spindly length, ghosting over the embedded splinter, and at the sharp electric hiss he withdrew. Beyond the pain, left behind was warmth, an ephemeral memento that waned all too quickly.

“Careful,” Ramattra chided, irritation blooming in his chest, though he was not sure from what. “There is bullet shrapnel.”

“Sorry,” Genji apologized meekly. “Do you want me to get it out for you?”

With a cautious eye, Ramattra regarded him. “Against my better judgement... Yes. I would prefer not to suffer any longer.” 

Words were allowed to sink in, to rouse proper affect. At the compassion stirring Genji’s composure, Ramattra reached out; he brushed over the furrows latticing Genji’s arm, and tethered them together with their experiences. 

“The fight we fought aboard my ship—it was relentless. I understand you have suffered a great deal as well.”

Genji glanced at the digits pressed to him, contemplating the exchange of gestures. “It's a part of my work as an agent. Discomfort is a small price to pay to keep people safe.”

Ramattra rescinded his hand. Picking up the case, he held it out toward Genji, presenting its contents.

Presenting trust.

Forceps were plucked without question, and the agent shuffled closer. 

“I will refrain from commenting on Overwatch’s success in that area,” Ramattra replied flatly.

“Until I'm done,” Genji added cheekily. 

The touch returned, a warm palm settling under Ramattra's jaw. 

“Yes.” He would have swallowed if he could. “Until you're done.”

A nervous energy enveloped the small room, both anxious over the imminent operation. Ramattra fidgeted with the cloth of his pants, otherwise keeping still. His head was tilted around as the best angle of approach was considered, Genji humming at each with uncertainty. Deciding to spare himself the apprehension, Ramattra closed the apertures of his optics, though the pitch black did not do much to soothe him. His head was rotated a scant few more times and a part of him expected Genji to abort the enterprise entirely.

Thunk, and the tip of the forceps pushed into the crack. The invasion was less than pleasant, to put it mildly. It hurt horribly, the metal prongs jiggling around to try to and clamp around the splinter.

No dice. Genji pulled out the calipers to a grunt of pain.

“Shit,” he swore with force, “I—I apologize. It's too difficult to reach. I—we should stop.”

Ramattra took hold of Genji's wrist before he could withdraw. “Don't make me suffer in vain. Only you can do this. Please,” he pleaded empathetically. Tentatively, Genji nodded, mustering courage for a second attempt, and at the confirmation apertures closed. 

Getting up on his knees, Genji slid his hand into a better position, splayed his fingers under Ramattra's chin to crane his neck, and the Ravager had to remind himself about trust. Exposing the seam between skull and neck was an exceptionally vulnerable act. As much as the parallel disgusted him, the area was as sensitive and susceptible for omnics as for humans; bundles of important wires and components ran the length. One jab, one cut wire, and death could be nigh instantaneous.

With anxiety swirling around his internals, Ramattra could not help but peek, open his apertures into the slightest fissures, ignoring the forceps to stare up at the opaque visor glass.

Genji was close.

All too close.

Something clawed up Ramattra's throat—a protest, a noise, electricity—but it died before it could escape, and he blinded himself again, discontent not only with the proximity but with his own weakness. 

Fortunately, he was given no more time to fret, promptly stabbed again. Searing fire spread from sensor to sensor, urging him to jerk away to cease it entirely. He relied on discipline to push through, curled his hand into a fist and tensed his jaw for distraction, harder and harder until he thought hinges would break.

Some more maddening fiddling, and the perfect angle was found. With grip finally achieved, the prongs withdrew alongside their prize and the relief was immediate. Pain ebbed, tension released and Ramattra slacked forward, into the hand supporting him. 

Delirious from agony, heavy from bodily strain, he surmised that, if there was any consolation to be found in this mess of a procedure, it was that Genji was so unusually warm for an omnic.

A balm for his ails.

And that would be all, as he decided he would never do something so invasive without a proper setup ever again, Iris so help him.

“How is it now?”

Gingerly removing himself from the touch—away from the comfortable warmth—Ramattra straightened his posture and dared a testing rub at the fracture, sighing in relief when no spark of pain arose.

“It's passable. No more than a dull throb,” he answered, gratitude saturating his synthesizer. He would need no theatrics for that, earnest in his emotion. The sound made Genji light up and he was quick with new ways to help.

“I can check for filler agents. Or a band-aid, if that would help keep dirt out.”

Ramattra considered the offer. Without adequate covering, he risked debris causing flare-ups. But that would be a small price to pay to ensure Genji stayed, as any future meeting was not set in stone.

“I would rather wait and have it tended to professionally. You strike me as the kind who is better at destroying than creating.”

“Yes, I am. But, ah...” A light quality saturated Genji’s tone, trying to stifle a chuckle. "That could take a while, as Overwatch is busy cleaning up after your destruction.”

Ramattra grumbled; he kept setting up these opportunities for Genji to take. Instead of engaging the agent in his little game of wits with his own—and gosh did he want to—Ramattra forced down the desire. And still he could not help but allow some bite to slip through.

“Then you won't have any issue assisting me in disassembly. Unlatch this for me.”

Genji did as told to no fanfare, much to Ramattra’s abject thrill. He placed his palms atop the metal plate and tested the resistance, gradually increasing his strength before the covering eventually dislodged. At the very least, he had a knack for a soft approach, Ramattra observed. Altogether a complete contrast to the ruthless ferocity demonstrated in battle.

As the uncovered internals came into view, Genji expressed intrigue in hushed Japanese. Spiritedly, he looked up at Ramattra. “Is there anything else I can do?”

As opposed to the procedure to remove the splinter, with no current to activate pain receptors in his arm, Ramattra would not need to worry about discomfort.

“You may as well. Unscrew these,” Ramattra pointed into the compartment with an index finger. 

“Phillips size 0, right?” Genji asked, eagerly swapping the interchangeable head of the small screwdriver with said bit. Obedient and excitable. Like a pup. Seemed he was not as unaffected by Ravager influence as he fancied.

“Yes, that is correct. Hm. I might have been too hasty in my assessment. This won't take quite as long as I believed.” Ramattra's wires crackled with a smug, electric smile.

Defeat may yet be a mere setback.

◇◇◇

They continued in such a manner for a while. For what Genji lacked in mechanical skill, he made up for with a steady hand, unbothered to be working under the critical eye of a perfectionist engineer. As a heap of components steadily formed, he felt inclined to acknowledge the ease in which Ramattra could instruct; close the oil valves. Unplug that wire. Now, unscrew this board. Detach the solenoid...

Thoughts percolated. If they shared a semiconductor chip, LEDS and boards, did their machinery share other design philosophies? Genji's lip twitched, the questions stopping short of spoken, allowing the harsh words of the Shimada Elders to steer his conduct.

Kuchi wa wazawai no moto. The mouth is the source of disaster.

Unlike back then, this was not just about thrill, curiosity or combating restlessness, Genji knew. It had struck him the instant he laid eyes upon the broken chip; if he could get Ramattra to open up, he could convince him to part with the schematics of his Subjugator technology. And then—then Master was not a lost cause. He would not continue to suffer for his repeated failures.

For once in what felt like forever, the thought of Zenyatta did not instill panic and hopelessness. In fact, Genji felt an unsettling sense of hope, and though it goaded spontaneous instinct—to engage with immediate effect—his time at Blackwatch taught him interrogations were a balancing act. 

With sly determination, he resolved to keep tugging at the loose end. Eventually, all would unravel.

So, begrudgingly keeping quiet, he focused on the slow emergence of their joint goal. Abetted by small talk in between instructions, time escaped him, and after what could have been hours just as well as minutes, he held the tiny perpetrator in his grasp: The broken chip.

Genji marveled at the small component, to think a single piece could have such a profound effect on the whole. 

Satisfaction welled in him to be permitted to unpackage the replacement—the mediator which had opened the way for this opportunity in the first place—and delight tugged at him for the honor of clicking it into place.

It is nice to see tangible progress for a change.

“Very good.” Ramattra nodded at the work, pleased at the outcome. “But I will need to do the soldering myself. Hold my arm, would you?”

Their knees knocked together, and once more, Genji found himself steadying the slack limb.

“Thank you,” Ramattra let slip without thinking, and Genji angled his head, just enough to peer past the ridged headpiece and up at him. The expression of gratitude turned the twitch on his lips into a lopsided smile of gratification, and he deemed this to be the seizable moment.

“Hey.”

Without missing a beat, and without looking up, Ramattra hummed an acknowledgement. Smoke rose in a continuous stream from the tip of the soldering iron, curling around in plumes, a formless third to eavesdrop on the conversation. Any prior effect it would have had on Genji's composure was overshadowed by determination.

“One for one, right?”

The smoke dispersed, and this time, the hand controlling the tool stilled. Gingerly, Ramattra raised his head, calling upon a combative resistance.

“Do you know what Master did before the Awakening?”

The soldering iron nearly slipped past fingers at the question, and Genji swore he could hear the flabbergasted blinking of apertures. 

“Out of everything to request…!” Ramattra’s expressed disbelief trailed off, shaking his head in amazement. Tension in artificial limbs softened, and Ramattra stared down at the hands securing his arm. 

Finding his answer, he tore his attention away from his thoughts to look squarely at Genji. Feelings lay hidden behind the alabaster mask, yet not his tone, which turned wistful and affectionate. “Last time I asked him, he claimed he stacked pins at a bowling alley.”

Genji tucked his chin and pressed his mouth into a thin line, resisting the compulsion to laugh at the scenario playing in his mind: Zenyatta dashing between the lanes of a bowling alley, hurrying to replace the pins before the next bowling ball could be sent careening toward him.

“Maybe that was the truth,” Genji offered, still testing the thread, mindful it might just have ended.

“Ha!” Ramattra’s chortle was so loud, it was felt bouncing between the walls of the holding cell. “I don't think so, but he wouldn't tell me.”

Then Genji’s laugh joined Ramattra’s, his distrust whisking away in an instant. Any other answer—any other claim—and he would have known. And so he responded in kind.

“He won't tell me either.”

Warden and prisoner shared a meaningful look. Just like that, as if the words they exchanged were rooted in secret code, they had established a connection which transcended their given roles.

Unbeknownst to either, it had been mutually concluded that, yes, there existed a solution after all.

[possum-reads]

Jurassic Park Notes

-Closing Thoughts-

Absolutely loved it. I've been a big fan of the movies since I was a kid and I had always wanted to read the books. However, I was definitely not expecting what I got. While I adore the movie and always will, the book is thought provoking and has a much bigger emphasis on the fact that those dummies were way in over their heads and the park was doomed from the start.

As a biologist, I really appreciated the dedication to exploring the biological and genetical discussions and methodology, even if it was flawed in execution by Hammond and his team. There were so many good moments, usually thanks to Malcolm, where the total scope of what was going on at the park and the implications behind it were explored that really set up a lot of thought provoking questions, and allowed the reader to think deeply about the park, the dinosaurs, and the people involved.

I really enjoyed the peek into each character's perspectives and seeing all the different reactions to everything. Getting to see the perspective from people with vastly different backgrounds, experiences, and reactions helped to highlight everything that was at stake and gave a good look into the nuances of the situation. The perspectives ranged from scientists, to rich old dudes, to children, and being able to see all of these different viewpoints made the story that much more interesting.

The story itself was very solid, and the build up in the first few chapters was incredible, one of the best I've read in a while. I would say it's comparable only to "Dracula" by Bram Stoker, which is another book I wish I didn't know what the big scary was before reading. The build up in both was done super well and I know the first readers were shook to the core at the reveals to both. It added a sense of mystery to the beginning of the book which set the story up nicely. It felt like at first we were getting almost a folklore story of a mysterious creature, then a peek inside to people who knew exactly what it was, and then thrown into the chaos that is Jurassic Park.

The ending was crazy. I'm very conflicted on if I agree with them bombing the island or not. While no, I don't agree that the dinosaurs should have been created and I don't agree with the park, the fact of the matter is that it doesn't matter anymore. The dinosaurs were created, and they are living, breathing creatures. On the other hand, they are not fit to live on that island and they're not suited for their environment. As an animal lover, I don't want them to die. I want well educated and equipped people to take care of them until they die because it's what they deserve. As a scientist, I think they should all be put down (humanely). They won't survive, eventually they will all slowly kill each other to death and/or starve. They're already under a lot of stress, and we saw with a lot of them that they aren't free to express their natural behaviors (ex: the velociraptors want to migrate but can't) and their quality of life will slowly but surely deteriorate. It's a tough dilemma at the end, and I'm excited to read the next book and see what happens. (I've seen all the movies but don't remember much)

I give the book 8/10, but that's purely due to my own preferences and because it didn't pass the Bechdel test at all even a little bit lmao.

-

My non-critical thoughts:

Hammond got exactly what he deserved. I was popping bottles when that stupid head fell down that hill and then got his ass beat by those dinosaurs.

RIP Malcolm except he's not actually dead, long live the king!

Justice for Ellie Saddler!!! I don't know why they needed to add that weird romance subplot in the movie, she is my strong independent queen.

I thought it was hilarious that Grant was wearing a Hawaiian shirt the whole time.

Lex, I understand that you are a child but I need you to get a grip for five seconds and realize that there is no goddamn ice cream.

Justice for Gennaro!!! They did my man sooo dirty in the movies! In the book you can tell he did Not want to be there after the dinosaurs started acting up but he bucked up and stepped up when they needed him, even though he had a wife and child waiting for him! He was truly one of the bravest of them, even if he did make mistakes, they were from a place of good intentions and he was genuinely trying to help the whole time.

The parts where they were being pursued by the dinosaurs were so good, and I think the fear and distress during those moments were done very well, the movie definitely upped the ante on the action but I appreciate a good suspense/thriller movie so I'm not complaining.

Lex throwing the baby velociraptor at the adults because she thought they would be nice to it and then them immediately eating it was insane, and I don't want to say it was funny because it was meant to highlight the nature of the animals...but it was kind of funny lmao

Justice for the dinosaurs, long live the king, can't wait to read the next one!

[projectpandora]

this is a supplementary document confirming the end of event : hell week, as well as a lore companion for chapter two : the mole.

PANDORA DIRECTIVE MEMORANDUM CLASSIFIED — LEVEL 5 CLEARANCE REQUIRED.

TO : 𝙰𝙻𝙻 𝙰𝚄𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚁𝙸𝚉𝙴𝙳 𝙾𝙿𝙴𝚁𝙰𝚃𝙸𝚅𝙴𝚂 FROM : 𝙾𝙵𝙵𝙸𝙲𝙴 𝙾𝙵 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙳𝙸𝚁𝙴𝙲𝚃𝙾𝚁 SUBJECT : 𝙿𝙾𝚂𝚃 - 𝚃𝚁𝙰𝙸𝙽𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝙳𝙴𝙱𝚁𝙸𝙴𝙵 ; 𝙴𝙽𝙴𝙼𝚈 𝙸𝙽𝙵𝙸𝙻𝚃𝚁𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽 & 𝙸𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙽𝙰𝙻 𝙲𝙾𝙼𝙿𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙸𝚂𝙴

OPERATIONAL EXTRACTION & ENEMY DEBRIEF

all surviving operatives have been successfully extracted from the biosphere following the full 168 hours and confirmed neutralization of the external breach. however, the following agents have perished during the training exercise or the attack : ◦ agent bombshell of wrath, explosive touch, real name: måns kauffmann. ◦ agent dull of acedia, intelligence reduction, real name: kevin tran. ◦ agent fate of gluttony, somatosensory imprint, real name: jacob calderon. ◦ agent dune of greed, self-disintegration, real name: gregory caine. ◦ agent vulture of greed, wings manifestation & feather projectiles, real name: soren holloway. ◦ agent corona of wrath, pyrokinesis, real name: callum reed. ◦ agent xerox of prudence, real name: toby hale. ◦ agent vacuum of temperance, real name: miles quinn. ◦ agent bingo of temperance, real name: andreas reyes. ◦ agent lighthouse of patience, real name: dr. wyatt mercer. but thanks to agent daemon and agent render's efforts to warn our operatives of the breach, we have more survivors than casualties. as you all know, upon arrival in atlantis, an immediate debriefing was conducted regarding the entity responsible for the attack. thanks to agent casper's abilities, we can confirm our enemies to be project czernbog, once thought to be a dead-end kgb initiative— one meant to rival pandora's earliest experiments— but instead evolved in secrecy led by viktor sokolov. over the past decades, it has accumulated advanced technology, refined its methodologies, and positioned itself for an eventual strike. that strike has now been executed, though they will not end there. included in the technology we know they possess are : ◦ verzik augmentation serums, creating soldiers with enhanced strength, speed, and durability, as confirmed by agent parasite. ◦ helios biotech's eidolon, neural implants that grant near-superhuman perception, memory  retention,  accelerated  learning,  and  a  near-infallible  sense  of  focus, as confirmed by agent goblin and our fortitude r&d team.

INTERNAL SECURITY COMPROMISE

agent casper provides strong evidence that pandora has been compromised from within. an unknown operative has been relaying critical intelligence to czernobog, allowing them to orchestrate a precise, well-coordinated assault. in light of this development, director marcus valance has initiated an internal investigation. his directive is unequivocal : the mole will be identified. the mole will be terminated. further details will be disclosed on a need-to-know basis. any operative found obstructing this investigation will be considered an accessory to espionage and dealt with accordingly. for transparency's sake, pandora would also like to disclose that agent chimera was a czernobog asset recovered during the 90's. agent chimera was put through a cryogenic sleep whenever he didn't aid the mutation serum's production and experiments, as well as going through memory alteration to remove his previous programming. we currently have no reason to believe agent chimera is the mole, however, he will also be under investigation, to make sure he isn't reverting to his old czernobog programming.

OPERATIONAL RECOVERY & TEMPORARY REPRIEVE

effective immediately, all surviving operatives are granted two nights of decompression following the events of the last 168 hours. additional provisions have been made for an official survival commemoration and celebration feast at the restaurant and the bar in level 06, during which all standard restrictions will be temporarily lifted. the porter models will not limit the operatives' alcohol intake, and our derek models are also set to automatically delete any surveillance footage they do not find harmful or compromising of pandora's security during this time. however, personnel are advised to remain vigilant.

trust is now a commodity in short supply until the mole is revealed.

OOC.

and with that, our first event is officially closed ! thank you for participating and i hope you all enjoyed hell week. but we're not entering a brand new chapter where our operatives aren't exactly sure who to trust. could it be their roommate ? could it be someone they slept with ? could it be the friend they talk to every day ? who knows ? but if you're interested in your character being the mole, please check the chapter two : the mole post and answer the small questionnaire ! feel free to make post-event starters now. members are also allowed to use the deceased npcs listed above in any way for your characters' lore ( ie. fighting together during the invasion, dying in their arms, friends, etc ). and feel free to headcanon any battles, any injuries they might have sustained, etc. during hell week ! happy roleplaying !

[thistleation]

Beyond our Space and Starlight: Chapter 2

It was 2 months and 17 days since they’d lost Shannon. Beatrice was still in the process of correcting flaws, addressing weaknesses, inadequacies… primarily in herself of course, that was the place where inadequacies were always the most readily available. 

Her sword was the current focus of her obsession. The new one. She couldn’t stand the sight of the old one anymore. 

Fortunately she never had to look at it again if she didn’t want to. 

Unfortunately it would always be there, ready to be called, just a shadow’s breadth away away from her, no matter where she ran. 

She’d finished forging her new blade two weeks ago, and she’d managed to abstract it earlier today. The rooms she’d existed in the past two months — her personal chambers, the forge, the library, the study she preferred, and the training grounds — were still littered with the cast off, the chaff of her forging process. 

Books for the most part, like an explosion of them, or mushrooms that sprouted from a spore cloud. Books on swordcraft, fighting treatises, books on war, but also books on biology, evolution, compilations of interviews with first responders, … all scattered about.

The organic nature of the chaos stood in stark contrast to her usual disciplined personality and methodology, but something had grown here. For all its wrongness it felt right. 

Now Beatrice was standing in the courtyard, summoning and dismissing and once again summoning the new blade to her grasp. 

Her breathing was regular but heavy, her eyes lined with deep dark circles but her gaze sharp. 

She was a mess, hair disheveled, wrinkled dark shirt loosely thrown on over a white tank top, marred by old stains of literal blood and sweat, but the sword… the sword was pure. 

She kept testing it, feeling its weight in her hand, its responsiveness to her commands, kept inspecting every millimeter of its surface in search of a flaw, and as she was finding none, she felt herself slowly… well not quite calming, but at least she felt a certain level of tension begin to drain out of her. 

Purity. 

She felt some measure of salvation in it, hoped that’s what it was, needed it to be. 

Her old sword had proven inadequate in the face of catastrophe and she needed to be rid of it. 

It was the sight of the hilt that really twisted her gut. 

That beautiful and elegant basket hilt. 

An adornment. 

An indulgence. 

It had decorated a weapon made by a Beatrice who saw violence as just another art to be mastered, one fascinated by the evolution of swordsmanship throughout history, by the martial philosophies posing one another challenges and answering them in turn, a Beatrice who enjoyed being ever so clever. 

It belonged to a Beatrice who had not yet been thrown into a building full of monsters with blazing fires for faces, monsters with no mouths who nonetheless managed to scream . Sounds that tore right through you, heralding that they themselves, their bodies overflowing with crackling, fiery energies, were coming to tear through you as well. 

It belonged to a Beatrice who made her sword to fight other swords, with clever tricks and artful parries. 

One who hadn’t yet had to fight desperately for her life in a storm of roiling fire and flesh with a weapon crafted for ‘civilized dueling’ — if there even was such a thing. 

One who hadn’t yet had to watch her closest friend die in front of her. 

Because all she’d barely managed to do was fight for her own meager survival. 

Inadequate. Foolish. Naive. 

She’d foregone clever tricks and fanciful additions for this weapon, turned away from all modifications to benefit different variants of thrusts and parries, away from counter strategy upon counter strategy, stacked like a house of cards. Instead she’d chosen to pursue simplicity. 

Fundamentals. 

As with so many things that concerned the beyond, the key was intent. 

It was not that her other sword — enhanced and bathed in otherworldly energies as it was — couldn’t do damage. It was the state of mind she’d been in when she abstracted it. It was how she’d seen combat back then, what she’d envisioned for her sword to do and how it ought to do it. 

That was the reason for the books: a new version of her understanding. Not because a weapon that existed partially outside of reality would still function the same, but because the understanding of the how helped sharpen and refine intent. Helped purify it. 

The merging of intent was how one channeled the beyond. Beatrice had spent days linked with her rider, focusing on this sword, imbuing it with a purpose that bridged realities so different even their laws of physics seemed strangers to one another. It was grueling and exhausting work, but Beatrice had kept at it, welcomed it even. 

And now finally, the result of that obsessive effort rested contently on her fingertips, at ease but with an underlying eagerness to fulfill its purpose: to cut. 

No adornments. Not a single object, material, or even any marking on the blade that wasn’t functional. 

Just a simple sword, with a single, perfect edge. 

Made simply to cut, to separate, to divide. To cleave left from right. To separate what was protected from what was to be destroyed. To divide life from flesh. 

A weapon reduced to its essence. 

Abstracted. 

Holding the sword out in front of her, edge up, Beatrice finally let out a long, quivering breath. 

She imagined herself on that edge, wondering if she could match its purity, if she could be that blade with its simple curve, its perfect edge. 

It was impossible and it was her only salvation. 

… 

“Now will you finally rest?”

It was Lilith, standing in the doorway. She looked a little haggard, but she was in her proper vestments at least, not even coming close to what Beatrice herself looked like. 

Beatrice looked at her for a moment, then turned her gaze back out into the courtyard. 

“I need to train with it. It’s a different style of combat, I’ll need to get used to it again.” 

“You can do that after you've slept.”

She didn’t answer, just twirled the sword experimentally in her hand again. It felt good there. Her wrist liked the motion, and her mind liked having anything to focus on that wasn’t loss or fear or grief. 

“You need it, Beatrice. You can’t keep doing this to yourself. I get why but… Bright above, you’re no use to anyone half-dead and a shadow of yourself either.” 

Beatrice scoffed. 

No use indeed. 

That had been precisely the issue hadn’t it. 

She heard Lilith’s sigh. Failed to hear the undertone in it. 

“Beatrice, I’m serious.”

She stared directly ahead, her gaze focused on the point of her sword. 

“Is that an order, captain?” 

It wasn’t said with venom. Just cold. 

Cold could hurt plenty too, as she saw when she finally turned to look at Lilith — too late — and she just caught the tail end of her wounded expression, hardening into something more determined. 

“Yes. It is.” Lilith’s jaw was set and her eyes were hard now, and Beatrice knew she couldn’t reach her anymore just as she now knew — should’ve always known — how much Lilith was hurting too. 

But she’d drowned out her own feelings so much in her daze she’d stopped realizing she was even feeling them. And she’d drowned out her sisters’ feelings too without meaning to. 

Lilith was turning away now and Beatrice suddenly, desperately needed to tell her something. She felt a thousand things suddenly well up inside her, none of which she had the words for. 

She needed to say I don’t know what I’m doing or how I’m supposed to heal. I’m sorry. I don’t want you to hurt. I  don’t want me to hurt but think I’m hurting and I don’t know how to stop and I’m sorry. I’m sorry I don’t have the words or the feelings I can understand. I know I just hurt you and I just want to take it back and eat it and let it poison me so it won’t poison you. I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry — 

“Lilith!”

She stopped in the doorframe. 

“I’m not losing you!”

Beatrice had felt a thousand things she couldn’t articulate and just pushed them outwards, and those were the words that managed to punch themselves out of her throat. 

She hoped they carried something of all the things she meant. Hoped they carried enough. 

Lilith’s fingers on the doorframe tensed for a moment and relaxed. Her shoulders rose and fell in a soft sigh. 

“Get some rest, Beatrice...”

“... please.”

—

CONT. on Ao3

[ozimac]

Categorization & Concept Learning

Relational discrimination learning in pigeons, Cook & Wasserman (2012)

Concept learning in animals, Zentall et al. (2008)

The chapter "Relational discrimination learning in pigeons" by Cook and Wasserman (2012)* investigates of concept learning in nonhuman animals, particularly focusing on whether pigeons can learn and transfer same/different discriminations to new stimuli. Both sameness and differentness are crucial concepts for survival and reproduction, lying at the core of various adaptive behaviors. Pigeons have been shown to successfully discriminate between same and different stimuli across various displays (e.g., Wasserman, Young, & Dalrymple (1997); Cook et al. (2003)), suggesting the potential formation of a relational same/different concept. However, there are variations in how pigeons process these stimuli, with some responding categorically while others are more sensitive to factors like entropy (measure of variability in a display) or oddity. There also seemed to be an emphasis in large training set size (e.g., Katz & Wright (2006)), although Blaisdell & Cook (2005) found evidence in pigeons that S/D relations could be judged when only two stimuli were used (see also Katz, Wright, and Bodily (2007)). 

Various experimental procedures, including simultaneous and successive same/different discriminations, have demonstrated pigeons' ability to generalize this behavior to novel stimuli. Differences in training methodologies and stimulus presentations have led to distinct patterns of responding. Additionally, human studies have mirrored some aspects of pigeons' responses (e.g., Young and Wasserman (2001a)), suggesting that humans, like pigeons, can exhibit both categorical and continuous processing of same/different relations. Categorical and continuous dimensions in stimulus control suggests that pigeons and humans may flexibly employ different strategies depending on contextual factors. The authors conclude with many questions that still persist involving competition for attention among these different dimensions, the longevity of prior experience effects, and the hierarchical nature of these conceptual relations. Overall, Cook and Wasserman, through their many paralleled experiments, show the complex cognitive processes involved in relational discrimination learning in both pigeons and humans, while specifically highlighting how animals navigate the multitude of stimulus relations present in their environments.

-

The review article “Concept learning in animals” by Zentall et al. (2008) challenges the idea that conceptual abilities are unique to humans, suggesting that many of the major varieties of conceptual classes claimed to be uniquely human are also exhibited by nonhuman animals. The authors present evidence for the formation of several types of conceptual stimulus classes in animals, including perceptual, associative, relational, and analogical classes. They argue that the ability to sort objects, events, and relations into classes allows for efficient learning and transfer of knowledge to new stimuli or contexts. The authors discuss perceptual concept learning, where animals sort stimuli into classes based on shared physical characteristics, such as shape or color. They provide examples of studies demonstrating animals' ability to categorize complex stimuli, showing that even pigeons can learn to discriminate between categories with varying degrees of success depending on training set size and stimulus repetition (e.g., Bhatt et al., 1988; Wasserman et al. (1988). There is extensive evidence that nonhuman animals are able to master perceptual or basic level concepts.

Associative concept learning involves forming categories based on arbitrary associations, such as between objects and words. The authors describe experiments demonstrating animals' ability to establish associative classes through matching-to-sample, many-to-one tasks and symmetry training (Zentall, Clement, & Weaver (2003)). Notably, Zentall et al. (2003) found that such training allows for the transfer of learning to a new association, where one of the stimuli previously involved in symmetry training is paired with a novel stimulus, while the other stimulus from the original training session replaces the first. The authors also discuss functional classes, where the common association is an acquired function shared by all members of the class (e.g., Vaughan (1988)). Finally, relational concept learning focuses on relationships among stimuli, such as larger than or brighter than. The authors explore studies on transitive inference across species (mentioning rats, pigeons, crows, monkeys, and chimpanzees) and same/different learning, showing that animals can make inferences based on relational properties. However, animals' performance in tasks requiring higher-order relational concepts like analogies varies, with some species demonstrating proficiency (e.g., Sarah the chimpanzee) while others struggle (e.g., pigeons), suggesting limitations in symbolic understanding depending on species.

Overall, the article highlights that animals possess various conceptual abilities comparable to those of humans, challenging the anthropocentric view of many of the cognitive sciences. By studying animals' cognitive processes under appropriate conditions, researchers are able uncover evidence of their conceptual abilities, demonstrating that these capacities are not unique to humans but lie at the heart of the phylogenetic history across all species. 

My thoughts

To begin, I really enjoyed both of these readings and highly recommend them. 

The first point I’d like to make is a thought I had while reading Castro, Kennedy, and Wasserman (2010)’s experiment findings in the Cook and Wasserman (2012) study, in which they used the Blaisdell & Cook (2005)’s two-item simultaneous S/D discrimination task but added a conditional component. In this task, pigeons were trained to respond conditionally based on different background colors in a display. They found that pigeons demonstrated the ability to learn and transfer this conditional discrimination task to novel displays effectively, but notably, they learned to peck at different arrays quicker than learning to peck at same arrays. The authors conclude that it is unclear why but could be because the birds prefer to look for difference or variability, which made me think of the Blough (2012)’s “Reaction-time Explorations of Visual Perception, Attention, and Decision in Pigeons” chapter that confidently stated, “pigeons like to search.” This is evidenced through a number of studies (e.g., “pop out” task in Allan & Blough, 1989; pigeons successfuly trained to find and peck a punched red diamond among complete diamonds in Fujita & Ushitani, 2005), thus this must have some ecological validity. In the field, pigeons must constantly scan their surroundings for food, potential threats, and other relevant stimuli. Thus, they must be vigilant and attentive to changes in their environment, which may be demonstrated by their notice and increased response to differences. This behavior aligns with their ecological role as adaptable and opportunistic foragers, where the ability to detect subtle changes in their environment is advantageous for survival and navigation.

In the Zentall et al. (2008) article, when reading on perceptual classes, the authors discuss how  “[i]t can be difficult to specify the particular common elements among the concept members that might be used to classify them”, although they are still easily classified to their respective classes. This made me think of the idea of essence and a study I read a little while back. Keil (1986) showed children photos of a raccoon whose appearance was altered to look like that of a skunk. The raccoon turned skunk had all the prototypical features of a skunk so, if determined by a category prototype, the children should have considered it a skunk. However, they did not, and rather categorized it still as a raccoon, due its dissimilarity to past skunk examples, similarity to past racoon examples, and what the authors concluded was “essence”. I wonder if there have been any studies studying essence in nonhuman animals?

I also found a lot of related concepts in the Zentall et al (2008) that coincide with a current study in my lab that investigates fast mapping pigeons, or rather fast object association mapping (FOAM), which uses a choice/learning by exclusion process as mentioned in the article (e.g., Clement and Zentall (2003); Kaminski, Call, & Fisher (2004). That being said, I wonder, with FOAM, are we showing learning by exclusion instead of choice by exclusion? Our birds are learning the novel stimuli pairs by exclusion in some capacity better than if they were not using a choice by exclusion process, as shown by the increase in accuracy on familiar foil trials compared to novel foil trials. On the same note, later in the article when discussing the Zentall & Hogan (1976) study looking at same/different discrimination learning, the authors mentioned “[u]nfortunately, pigeons tend to be neophobic and the presentation of novel stimuli appears to interfere with immediately transfer of matching”. This is interesting because I’ve also read that pigeons are neophilic, or rather choose by novelty (Aust et al., 2008). This seems to be contradictory. I would say, however, that the neophobic argument could be evidenced in the FOAM study currently, where after completing tests and moving onto a next phase, our birds will initially show a preference for familiar (incorrect foil) comparisons when presented with a novel sample and (correct) novel comparison. Is this, too, interfering with immediate transfer of choice by exclusion when beginning in new phases? Surprisingly, however, the pigeons switch this strategy shortly after and choose by exclusion (higher accuracy on familiar foil trials). I’ve been likening this to a preference for familiarity specifically because of its prior history of reinforcement but I wonder if this could more-so be due to this neophobia (i.e., avoidance of novelty), as evidenced by the birds switching once the novel comparison isn’t so novel anymore (e.g., after x amount of presentations). (To that same idea, I’m also now realizing that it could not be a preference for familiarity due to its history of reinforcement because it has only ever been reinforced in the context of the sample that it is paired with and has never been reinforced in the presence of any other sample. Thus, it could not be due to its previous history of reinforcement because a "familiar" comparison has never and will never be reinforced in the context of a “novel” sample.)

To finish, I absolutely loved one of the concluding paragraphs in Zentall et al. (2008)’s article and I will leave it here in case anyone outside of my lab ever reads this:

“Animals have evolved various behavioral capacities that, when studied under the appropriate conditions, rival or even exceed those of humans. No one would question the sense of smell of the bloodhound or the strength of an elephant. And, no one would argue that humans are inherently better at navigation than pigeons or migrating birds. Often, however, we assume that our conceptual ability is not only better than that of other animals, but that it is unique to our own species. Yet, other species have undoubtedly had to overcome environmental problems that required the deployment of an assortment of cognitive processes; if asked in the appropriate way, then these animals too can provide convincing evidence of their conceptual abilities.” 

* Chapter from Zentall, T. R., & Wasserman, E. A. (2012). The Oxford handbook of Comparative Cognition. Oxford U. Press. 

[aboutanancientenquiry]

“Comparative perspectives on Persian interactions with Greek sanctuaries during the Greco-Persian Wars

Oppen, Simone Antonia

This dissertation considers Aeschylus’ Persae and portions of Herodotus’ Histories as attempts to shape memories of the Greco-Persian Wars by invocation of material evidence at very different moments in the fifth century BCE. Given the literary and archaeological nature of our surviving Greek evidence, this consideration is a necessary part of the larger project towards which I work: a history of Persian interactions with Greek sanctuaries during the Greco-Persian Wars. Greek archaeological evidence offers one set of comparative perspectives on these interactions. I attempt to place Aeschylus and Herodotus in dialogue with this evidence in chapters two and three. Herodotus, unlike Aeschylus, depicts respectful Achaemenid behavior at Greek sanctuaries during the Greco-Persian Wars. To contextualize this depiction, I examine earlier sources from the western Achaemenid Empire in chapter four. In so doing, I build on methodology demonstrated in the introductory chapter to consider a second set of comparative perspectives. Close reading of Herodotus in parallel to these sources provides a basis for fully examining types of behavior which have often been explained away in previous scholarship on the historian. Notably, Herodotus’ depiction, unlike our surviving earlier sources from the western Achaemenid Empire, often considers how such behavior relates to more violent aspects of conquest, and as such provides a contrast to these surviving earlier sources. I suggest that this contrast—Herodotus’ depiction of both sacrilege and respectful behavior—can be understood in his historical moment. And yet this suggestion is but a beginning.”

This is the title and the abstract of the PhD thesis of Simone Antonia Oppen (Columbia, 2019). I find very interesting and promising her approach of combination and comparison of Herodotus with Near Eastern sources in order to understand better the Persian Empire and the reactions to it of peoples who came in contact with the Persians.

Source: https://academiccommons.columbia.edu/doi/10.7916/d8-2nd6-a636

[fromdevcom]

The very existence of the conservative corporate training model is now, paradoxically, being questioned. In 2025, if you think you could train your employees with outdated learning methodologies and still stand as a modern corporate contender, you will find yourself soldiering through the firing of hiring. The digital landscape evolves exponentially, and the workforce's adaptability is now a requisite for survival, not an edge that could keep you ahead of your competition. That’s exactly why you need online training platforms that support your learning needs.  The age of passive knowledge consumption is far behind. Corporates today need learning solutions that are dynamic, personalized, scalable, and trackable. Ditch the standard and generic learning solution: Your team needs focused upskilling that fights against the challenges of a rapidly changing marketplace. This article analyzes five online learning platforms that will transform corporate education by 2025.  Why Do You Need Online Learning Platforms for Your Business? The new LinkedIn research proves the unequivocal connection of learning to business success. The research measures three key parameters of a company's learning culture: L&D Team Size – How big is the Learning & Development team? Skill Growth – The speed with which employees learn new skills. Learning Engagement – How often do employees engage with learning-related content on LinkedIn? Learning-oriented companies are definitely benefitting: Greater Retention – Employees stay longer, retaining greater attention. Promoting Internally – Employees grow rather than leave. Leaders in Demand – More employees are ready for management positions. In conclusion, a strong learning culture yields a more stable, skilled, and future-ready workforce.  Having said that, let's quickly take a look at why you need training platforms: Cut Costs: No more travel expenses, venue bookings, or printed materials. Employee training software keeps training budget-friendly while ensuring consistency. Scale with Ease: Whether onboarding employees, training partners, or educating customers, you can reach a global audience without logistical headaches. Ensure Consistency: Delivering the same high-quality training to everyone reduces errors and enhances compliance across your organization. Track Performance in Real Time: Obtain instant insights into employee progress, knowledge gaps, and training effectiveness through built-in analytics. Speed Up Onboarding: Structured learning pathways will enable new hires to get up-to-speed faster and start contributing even sooner. Stay Compliant: Thanks to automated tracking and certification management, you can keep pace with industry regulations without breaking a sweat. Educate Customers & Partners: Training on your products or services can increase adoption and, in turn, reduce support requests. It is about training and growing your business rapidly while remaining competitive.  Best Online Learning Platforms for Businesses in 2025 ProProfs Training Maker  ProProfs Training Maker is a full-fledged and easy LMS for hassle-free online teaching. Be it employee training, compliance training, or course creation, this complete cloud-based solution serves everything in one place. With ProProfs, you can create courses from scratch or start quickly using pre-built templates. Plus, you can even leverage the AI course builder to generate TOCs, flesh out full chapters, and even feed the AI with your existing docs.  As one of the best online learning platforms, this easy interface allows adding quizzes, assessments, and certificates to track learner progress and engagement. Virtual classrooms help conduct efficient training for individuals or a large audience. The platform is supported with SCORM, Tin Can API, and 50-plus integrations making it well-connected with your HRIS, CRM, and other suitable applications. It has its

white label feature, allowing an organization to rebrand the LMS as its own, and the granular reporting brings data-based decisions to the table.  Pros  Ready to use courses  Virtual classroom  White labeling  Online collaboration and certification  Cons  Lacks an on-premise version Dark user interface option is not available Dedicated account manager is lacking in the free plan  Docebo Docebo enables organizations to create on-demand learning programs for employees, customers, and partners. The use of the latest features, such as AI content production and workflow automation, helps streamline learning by making it much more effortless to engage and improve productivity. This platform is remarkable in its flexibility in terms of adapting to existing tech stacks and providing scalable solutions that grow with the business.  AI-backed, Docebo speeds up content creation, improves the learner experience making it simpler to impact training at scale. With more than 3,800 companies and counting, Docebo has created an industry leader reputation for continued innovation and learning management excellence.  Pros  Supports social learning  Suitable for businesses of all sizes Range of customization options Compatible with various enterprise applications Cons  Complex implementation Steep learning curve Limited reporting capabilities iSpring Learn  iSpring Learn is a versatile learning management system (LMS) designed to simplify employee onboarding, upskilling, and certification processes. As for its offline access through the iSpring Learn app, an employee can take or interact with the training content regardless of device. This is more so a solution for teams working in areas with little or no internet access or those constantly on the move. The website has more than 575,000 downloads and about 36,000 daily active users, giving firm grounds for its reliability and broad adoption across industries. Besides being an LMS, iSpring Learn can now be used with iSpring's authoring tools to create courses flexibly customized. In addition to the ready-made courses offered by iSpring Academy, businesses can save on time as well as their expenses in the development of their courses. There is a free trial and live demo of iSpring to give potential users a flavor of how it works.  Pros  Rapid implementation Comprehensive training support Robust reporting features Seamless integration Cons Difficulty in managing user permissions and roles Limited language options Limited integration with third-party tools LearnUpon LearnUpon is a dynamic and growing learning management system offering training efficiencies and enhancements across various audiences, from employees to customers, partners, and members. The platform engages users in creating stress-free learning experiences that drive companies' performance, retention, and growth. With AI-enabled learning functions, LearnUpon frees businesses from repetitive tasks, allowing them to create automated and personalized training interventions with actual impact. From course creation to learner engagement, reporting, and integration, its flexible capacity makes it a powerful solution for the efficient administration and delivery of training.  LearnUpon facilitates everything from employee onboarding and development to customer success, partner enablement, and extended enterprise training. Centralized management means all training is created, delivered, and tracked within the platform. LearnUpon has more than 1,500 customers and is ranked among the best LMS systems, having earned several accolades, including seven Brandon Hall awards in 2024. Pros  Rapid deployment Effective training support Advanced reporting tools Smooth system integration Cons  Customization limitations Mobile access challenges Administrator learning curve TalentLMS  TalentLMS is an easy-to-use, flexible LMS that can manage employee, customer, and partner training efficiently.

With a user-friendly interface and responsive mobile nature, TalentLMS can be navigated easily by administrator or learner. With the super-fast setting up from the platform, the business can create courses for quick and easy training delivery. When AI is in the house, course creation becomes more time-efficient and comprehensive, whether in terms of text, images, or tests, and high-quality training materials can now be generated in just a few clicks. TalentLMS, best known for its generic training features, can be easily customized to train any of your teams, whether onboarding new employees, improving sell skills, or training customers. As the library grows, ready-made courses for all purposes are found, and companies can start training right away. The program is also aligned with the top security standards, such as ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and GDPR, for data protection and quality assurance. Pros  Intuitive drag-and-drop authoring tool Integrates with PowerPoint Provides multilingual capabilities Incorporates gamification elements Cons  Initial configuration may require additional time Offers limited interactive course templates Costs rise with additional users How to Choose the Right Online Learning Platform When choosing the right platform for your business, you must consider more than just fancy features and flashy marketing. Choose something that will solve your real pain points and not add unnecessary complexity. Here’s a breakdown to guide you through selecting the best platform for your business needs: 1. Define What You Need Prior to starting to look at alternative platforms, you need to look backward and really think about what your business requires. Whether you're a start-up or a bigger organization, pain points are evident. Are you looking for a tool to better manage your team? Or do you consider bringing in software for customer interaction? Take the time to list your must-have features and prioritize them based on your current challenges. 2. Scalability Outgrowing a platform is one of the most painful things that happen to a business. An application that will be good for the present might not fit once growth occurs. Ensure that the platform you select is capable of scaling up with the movements of your organization. Things such as the limit of users, storage, and possible future integrations should be considered.  3. Usability and Training Crucial Consider these factors when assessing a platform: How easy or difficult is it for my team to learn and use this right off the bat? A platform that requires a fair bit of training or is just too complicated will eventually make it all the more frustrating. Look for simple, intuitive, and robust customer care and easy onboarding that makes using it all that much easier. 4. Effectiveness of Costs  A platform that comes with value for money gets you the maximum features relative to the price. But keep in mind; cheaper is not always going to be best. The modules might seem more expensive, but they are functionally richer and long-term cheaper than inexpensive solutions. Review total cost of ownership, including set up, recurring costs, and any hidden fees.  5. Provide Good Customer Support Efficient customer support can make a difference when there are problems with the platform. You don't want to be stranded with no one to help you once something goes wrong, so make sure there's a support team when things don't go as planned. Choose a platform that is reputed for good customer service. 6. Look into Security Features Business data is important, and you would not want the last thing from a platform dedicated to security. So be sure that the platform has good security features like encryption, double authentication, and various industry country standards. This way, you will know that your business data and customer information are safe. Unlock the Future of Learning with the Right Training Platform! The choice of an appropriate online learning platform is pivotal for your business.

It isn't merely about technology but rather about enabling your team to grow, adapt, and prosper in a fast-paced environment. The right employee training software would train your employees while saving precious time and money. What to Do Next: Evaluate your needs, weigh ease of use, scalability, and support, and start evaluating various platforms suitable for your goals. An accurate choice would not only streamline your process but also enhance the productivity of your team toward upcoming challenges.

[tutorsindia152]

Professional Journal Submission & Statistical Review Help for UK Researchers | Tutors India

Unlock expert statistical data analysis, SPSS, R programming, and comprehensive publication support tailored for UK researchers. Achieve accurate dissertation statistical validation with timely delivery and plagiarism-free work.

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[so-true-overdue]

The Slough’s Silent Symphony

In the heart of our world, where the land meets the sea, lies a realm of wonder—a slough. This enigmatic ecosystem, a confluence of fresh and saltwater, is a sanctuary of biodiversity, a cradle of life that whispers secrets of survival and symbiosis. Yet, beneath its tranquil surface, a tempest brews, wrought by the hands of humankind.

The Crucible of Creation

Sloughs are not mere marshes; they are the crucibles of creation, where myriad species find refuge and sustenance. These wetlands are the lungs of our planet, filtering pollutants, sequestering carbon, and nurturing a plethora of organisms. They are the unsung heroes of our ecological narrative, their existence a testament to nature’s ingenuity.

The Unseen Cataclysm

Yet, as we traverse the path of progress, we have unwittingly become the architects of their demise. Anthropogenic climate change, a specter of our own making, casts a long shadow over these vital ecosystems. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and encroaching sea levels conspire to unravel the delicate tapestry of life within the slough.

The Evidence Unfurled

The evidence is irrefutable, woven into the very fabric of scientific inquiry. Peer-reviewed studies illuminate the correlation between human activity and the degradation of these wetlands. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has elucidated the dire consequences of our carbon emissions, painting a portrait of a world in peril.

The Naysayers’ Lament

Yet, there are those who would dismiss these truths, ensnared by the siren song of skepticism. To them, we offer a pre-bunking of criticisms: the data is robust, the methodologies sound, and the consensus overwhelming. To deny the reality of climate change is to turn a blind eye to the plight of the slough and the myriad lives it sustains.

A Call to Stewardship

What, then, shall we do? We must become stewards of the slough, guardians of its fragile beauty. We must advocate for policies that mitigate climate change, reduce carbon footprints, and preserve these wetlands for future generations. We must educate, innovate, and collaborate, forging a path toward sustainability.

The Epilogue of Hope

In the end, the slough’s silent symphony need not be a requiem. It can be a song of hope, a testament to our capacity for change. Let us heed its call, for in saving the slough, we save ourselves. Let us write a new chapter in our ecological saga, one where harmony reigns and the slough’s symphony plays on, undisturbed by the ravages of time.

[leonollora4110]

Revolutionising Resource Management with Advanced Fuel Management Systems

In an era where sustainability and efficiency are paramount, the quest for innovative solutions to optimise resource management has become imperative. Among the critical resources under scrutiny, fuel stands out as a focal point due to its widespread usage across industries and its significant impact on both economic and environmental landscapes. In response to this challenge, the advent of Advanced Fuel Management Systems (AFMS) heralds a new chapter in resource management practices. These sophisticated systems integrate cutting-edge technologies and strategic methodologies to not only streamline fuel usage but also minimise waste, reduce costs, and mitigate environmental footprints. This article delves into the transformative potential of AFMS, examining how they are reshaping traditional paradigms and propelling industries towards a more sustainable future.

The Critical Importance of Effective Fuel Management

In today's rapidly evolving industrial landscape, managing resources efficiently is not just an option—it's a necessity for survival and growth. Fuel, being one of the most vital resources across various industries, requires sophisticated management techniques to ensure optimal utilisation and minimal wastage. Enter the advanced Fuel Management Systems (FMS), a transformative solution for businesses aiming to enhance accuracy, security, and productivity in managing their fluid assets. This article delves into the world of Fuel Management Systems, highlighting their significance, components, and the exceptional capabilities they offer to modern businesses, particularly through the pioneering technology brought forth by Banlaw.

Fuel management stands as a linchpin in the operational efficiency and sustainability of numerous industries, ranging from transportation and logistics to manufacturing and construction. With fuel costs often representing a significant portion of operational expenses, any inefficiency or wastage can swiftly erode profit margins and hinder competitiveness. Moreover, in an era increasingly defined by environmental consciousness and regulatory scrutiny, the environmental impact of fuel consumption has become a pressing concern for businesses worldwide. Effective fuel management not only entails optimising consumption to reduce costs but also entails minimising carbon emissions and other pollutants, aligning operations with sustainability goals and regulatory compliance.

Enter Advanced Fuel Management Systems (AFMS), equipped with cutting-edge technologies and intelligent algorithms designed to revolutionise the way businesses manage their fuel resources. Unlike traditional manual methods or basic fuel monitoring systems, AFMS offer a comprehensive suite of functionalities tailored to address the complexities of modern fuel management challenges. From real-time monitoring and precise inventory tracking to automated dispensing and consumption analytics, these systems provide invaluable insights and control over every aspect of fuel usage. Moreover, AFMS leverages connectivity and data integration capabilities to seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure, enabling businesses to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and unlock new levels of efficiency and cost savings. One such trailblazer in the field of AFMS is Banlaw, whose innovative solutions are setting new benchmarks for fuel management excellence and driving sustainable practices across industries.

Understanding Fuel Management Systems

Fuel Management Systems (FMS) play a pivotal role across various industries, serving as the cornerstone for efficient fuel utilisation and cost optimization. At its core, an FMS comprises a sophisticated amalgamation of hardware and software components meticulously engineered to safeguard, supervise, and regulate fuel-related activities. Whether in transportation, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors, where fuel consumption significantly impacts operational budgets and environmental footprints, these systems serve as indispensable assets. Through the seamless integration of control mechanisms and advanced analytics, FMS empowers organisations to maintain a comprehensive grasp over their fuel supply chain, from procurement to distribution, fostering enhanced transparency and accountability at every stage.

One of the primary functions of Fuel Management Systems is to ensure the secure and judicious allocation of fuel resources, mitigating the risks associated with unauthorised access or pilferage. By employing cutting-edge technologies such as RFID tags, biometric scanners, and GPS tracking, these systems establish robust layers of authentication and verification, thereby fortifying the integrity of fuel inventories against potential breaches or discrepancies. Moreover, by interfacing with fleet management software and telemetry systems, FMS enables real-time monitoring of fuel consumption patterns, allowing for timely interventions to optimise efficiency and minimise wastage. Such proactive measures not only bolster operational resilience but also contribute to substantial cost savings and environmental stewardship in the long run.

The analytical capabilities embedded within Fuel Management Systems furnish organisations with invaluable insights into their fuel utilisation dynamics, empowering data-driven decision-making and strategic planning. Through sophisticated algorithms and predictive modelling, FMS can forecast future fuel demands, identify areas of inefficiency, and recommend optimization strategies tailored to specific operational requirements. Whether by streamlining route planning to reduce fuel consumption or implementing maintenance schedules to enhance vehicle fuel efficiency, these actionable intelligence derived from FMS pave the way for continuous improvement and sustainable growth. In essence, Fuel Management Systems emerge as indispensable assets in the contemporary landscape, offering a multifaceted approach to enhancing fuel economy, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability for organisations across diverse sectors.

Banlaw’s Innovative Fuel Management Solutions

Banlaw’s prominence in the fuel management sector stems from its unwavering dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions that address the intricate requirements of industries such as mining, rail transportation, and construction. Through meticulous attention to detail and a keen understanding of sector-specific challenges, Banlaw has established itself as a trusted partner for organisations seeking to optimise their fuel usage and mitigate operational risks. Leveraging advanced technologies like SecureFillTM and ResTrackTM, Banlaw ensures unparalleled precision in fuel monitoring and reconciliation, boasting an impressive track record of surpassing the 99.5% mark in fluid reconciliation rates. This commitment to accuracy not only enhances operational efficiency but also bolsters clients' confidence in their fuel management processes.

A cornerstone of Banlaw's success lies in its continuous pursuit of innovation, driven by a passion for excellence and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements, Banlaw remains well-equipped to tackle emerging challenges and capitalise on new opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of fuel management. Their specialised hardware and software solutions not only enhance fuel security and efficiency but also streamline regulatory compliance, providing clients with a comprehensive suite of tools to navigate complex industry requirements with ease. Through ongoing research and development initiatives, Banlaw remains poised to revolutionise the fuel management industry, driving progress and empowering clients to achieve their goals with confidence.

In a world where efficient resource utilisation is paramount, Banlaw stands as a beacon of innovation and reliability, offering tailor-made solutions that empower businesses to thrive in competitive environments. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, Banlaw remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in fuel management, driving positive change and delivering tangible value to clients worldwide. As industries continue to evolve and adapt to new challenges, Banlaw remains steadfast in its commitment to providing forward-thinking solutions that pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.

Key Features and Functionalities of Banlaw FMS

Banlaw's Fuel Management Systems (FMS) are distinguished by a rich set of features and functionalities designed to streamline the management of fuel resources across various industries. One of the standout features is the comprehensive handling of fuel delivery and storage processes. By accurately matching delivery dockets with physical consignments, Banlaw's systems provide an essential layer of transparency and accountability, minimising discrepancies and ensuring that fuel inventory remains accurately documented. Additionally, the systems support authorised access controls, safeguarding fuel storage facilities against unauthorised usage or tampering. Automated monitoring of fuel storage levels further enhances operational efficiency by providing real-time insights into inventory status, allowing for timely replenishment and optimization of resource allocation.

Efficient fuel dispensing is another key aspect of Banlaw's FMS, aimed at reducing fuel theft and enhancing fueling procedures. Leveraging advanced technologies such as Auto ID, Banlaw's systems enforce strict authentication protocols to ensure that fuel is dispensed only when proper identification is provided. This not only mitigates the risk of unauthorised fuel usage but also promotes accountability among users, fostering a culture of responsible fuel management. By automating the dispensing process, Banlaw's systems minimise human error and optimise throughput, enabling organisations to maximise the utilisation of their fuel resources while minimising waste.

At the heart of Banlaw's FMS lies the ResTrackTM software, a powerful tool that empowers organisations with remote monitoring and management capabilities. Through real-time data analytics and reporting functionalities, ResTrackTM provides invaluable insights into fuel usage patterns, consumption trends, and operational performance metrics. This enables proactive decision-making and strategic planning, allowing organisations to optimise their fuel management strategies for maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, ResTrackTM facilitates compliance with regulatory standards by providing audit trails, documentation, and reporting features, ensuring that organisations remain in full adherence to industry regulations and environmental mandates. Overall, Banlaw's FMS, with its robust features and advanced functionalities, offers a comprehensive solution for fuel management challenges, empowering organisations to achieve greater operational excellence and sustainability.

A Strategic Asset for Future-Ready Businesses

Implementing Banlaw’s FMS not only optimises fuel usage but also integrates safety and environmental compliance into the fuel management process. The Dry Break Auto ID and Splash Fill Auto ID technologies exemplify Banlaw's commitment to providing secure and environmentally conscious solutions. These features not only streamline operations but also significantly reduce the risk of fuel spillages and theft, translating into cost savings and enhanced operational integrity.

For business owners, investing in a robust Fuel Management System like that offered by Banlaw signifies a step toward sustainability and efficiency. With its comprehensive features and reliable performance, Banlaw’s FMS stands out as a strategic asset that propels businesses towards achieving superior control and optimization of their fuel resources. In an era where every drop counts, having a system that offers precise management and substantial productivity gains is invaluable.

Take a decisive step towards transforming your business operations by integrating Banlaw’s leading-edge Fuel Management Systems. Contact Banlaw today to discuss your specific needs and see how their customised solutions can significantly benefit your business. Unlock the potential of advanced fuel management—because when it comes to resource efficiency, every measure matters. This comprehensive exploration into Fuel Management Systems clarifies their importance and showcases how Banlaw’s cutting-edge solutions pave the way for enhanced security, efficiency, and compliance in industrial fuel management. As industries continue to evolve, so too does the technology that supports them, making Banlaw’s FMS an indispensable tool for modern businesses.

[aerospaceaviation]

Riot Control Equipment Market 2024 with Company Profile, Trend, Analysis and Development 2030

The latest market research service from The Insight Partners is called " Riot Control Equipment Market Share, Size Analysis| 2030" The business focuses on consulting and syndicated market research. The research firm is helping Riot Control Equipment market investors by providing both qualitative and quantitative data through this study.

Riot Control Equipment Market Potential

The market research study guides organizations on market economics by identifying market size, revenue potential, and total market share. The company needs to comprehend its clientele and the demand it creates to focus on a smaller selection of items. Through this chapter, market size assists businesses in estimating demand in specific marketplaces and comprehending projected patterns for the future.

Riot Control Equipment Market Competition Analysis

This chapter provides information about both long-standing and recent Riot Control Equipment market participants. Comprehending the competition facilitates a company's understanding of its market position. The study provides insights into opportunities and dangers facing Riot Control Equipment market participants through this chapter. Opportunities for market expansion in the Riot Control Equipment sector may be found by contrasting the price and organic growth methods employed by major market players. Key businesses are DESERT WOLF, AXON ENTERPRISE INC., AMTEC LESS-LETHAL SYSTEMS, INC., LRAD CORP., THE SAFARILAND GROUP, NONLETHAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC., CONDOR NON-LETHAL TECHNOLOGIES, BLACKHAWK, LAMPERD, INC., SECURITY DEVICES INTERNATIONAL INC. .

Riot Control Equipment Market Segmentation

To effectively serve their consumers in a competitive Riot Control Equipment market, businesses must educate themselves about important categories. Streamlining market tactics is a potent use of market research. The product, application, and regional categories are highlighted in this study area. Brands may further enhance their products and services by having a better understanding of demographics and high-return areas.

Based on Product Type this market is categorized further into-

Offensive Equipment

Defensive Equipment

Based on End User this market is categorized further into-

Law Enforcement

Homeland Security

Based on Geography this market is categorized further into-

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

and South and Central America

Based on Regions:

North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)

Europe (U.K., France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Central & Eastern Europe, CIS)

Asia Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, ASEAN, India, Rest of Asia Pacific)

Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America)

The Middle East and Africa (Turkey, GCC, Rest of the Middle East and Africa)

Rest of the World…

Our Research Methods:

The thorough results of primary and secondary research methodologies are presented in this paper. Included are specifics on the Riot Control Equipment market share study. This study also includes additional industry markers including spending, micro-financial indicators, and demographics.

Key competitors in the market are regularly evaluated based on their market shares to forecast the growth of the industry as a whole. These important market participants' earnings are assessed based on the projected length. Information about the market at the local, regional, and national levels is provided by this market research.

Exclusive COVID-19 Impact Analysis

A historic COVID-19 pandemic was followed by the brief closure of companies. Riot Control Equipment Market participants had to contend with poor marketing performance, lower revenues, and difficulties surviving their manufacturing lifecycles. Maintaining supply-demand balance and controlling expectations proved to be difficult for small and medium-sized businesses. This section discusses the examination of COVID-19's effects on companies and the alternate strategies they have employed to deal with the interruptions caused by the epidemic. This chapter also discusses the potential for recovery following COVID-19.

Exclusive Benefits for Buyers

Strategic Insights to Enhance Customer Experience and Per Customer Revenue

Assistance in Product Planning and Roadmap to Marketing

Data-backed Approach by Researchers to Offer New Optimal Business Solutions.

Preferred Target Demographic, Target Regions, and Market Channels.

Customized Insights and Consultation Service

Author’s Bio:

Ash Paul

Senior Market Research Expert at The Insight Partners