It's been a bad day.
I've been struggling with my weight restored body after AN-bp recovery and I never stopped using the bulimic behaviors anyway, so at this point I'm just full relapse. I'm restricting as best I can outside the bulimic behaviors, but I still feel like it's too much and I deeply hate myself. Going inpatient ruined me and im finding it harder and harder to deal with the fallout from it. I'm losing weight again but it's so slow compared to how fast it went on, and I have so far to go before I feel safe in my body again.
I'm out of money today and have exhausted all my resources until thursday, so I can't buy the bulimic supplies. I've been in full panic about it all day. I keep having to excuse myself from my desk at work to have full breakdowns in the bathroom. I can't seem to reign it in or calm down. It's been hours of this.
Tomorrow my hours at work change because the higher ups manipulated me into something i made clear I didn't want to do. I'm training at another clinic and I might as well be starting a whole other job. The emotional distress this is causing me is almost irrational. I can't cope with it.
Again I'm crying. I can't control any of this. My mother is not speaking to me because she sees the financial toll of my bulimia. She funds a bank account with $500 a month for me to try to stay afloat, and she sees that the transactions are all grocery store based. It's clear as day that I failed another recovery attempt and am drowning in my illness. Except now I'm not even thin. Even more disgusting.
I wasn't able to do anything for her for mother's day because I had no money, and I spent the day doordashing for the cash to buy the binge supplies for that day.
I hate myself. I don't know what to do. I don't know why I keep inflicting myself on this world. My loved ones deserve better than me.

I don't even know where to start, there is a huge amount of information that I wanted to share with you here.Let's start with perhaps the most common types of fraud.Theft of your credit and debit cards.There are several ways that you can part with your money from your cards.But where do the scammers get this data from?
The most common ways are
--You got to a phishing payment link,e-commerce
--Leakage of your data from the sites where you made the payment
--You have brought virus software to your PC by downloading a malicious file from an unknown source (Internet, flash card)
--You have got to a phishing site for authorization of an apple, Google, Samsung account, etc.
Now in order
You wanted to buy a product online on an unfamiliar site at a very attractive price.Despite the fact that the site inspires confidence, has an SSL certificate, the correct legal address, a beautiful domain name and other parameters, this is not an indicator of its reliability.After making a purchase, you will even receive a receipt for the cost and delivery time to your email address.And you are happy that you have saved a lot of money, keep going about your daily business. Next, it all depends on the methods of debiting funds from your bank card. It will be used either almost immediately or a little later.
The case is as follows. You regularly purchase any goods over the Internet in a local or large online store.For ease of use, your card and billing address are stored in these stores.Hackers study the attack vectors on these stores, exploit the vulnerability and gain access to the database of stores where you previously purchased goods.Your card data is usually encrypted, but not always, there are also methods for decrypting this data.This is how your card data gets to the attackers.
Do you like free software, movies and games downloaded from Torrent and unofficial sites?
Then the malefactor is already in your computer.There is a huge amount of malware for PCs on both Windows and macOS.All this malware has different tasks.We will focus on the stillers class for example.Stiller is a malicious software that extracts all information from your PC and sends it to an attacker.I will list only some parameters and data that stiller can extract, these are:versions of all software installed on the PC,IP address,time zones,keyboard layouts,fonts,autofill of any browser,cookies,hardware wallets and much, much more.As a rule, your credit cards, which browsers keep so carefully, are located in the autocomplete lines.All other information such as billing can also be extracted from the log taken from your PC.
The most insidious way - these are phishing authorization sites.I'll give you a simple example: your iCloud ran out of storage space, and you wanted to buy additional space in the cloud.You logged into safari on your iPhone and entered an icloud request.You click on the first link in the search results, this is what everyone would do, even me.This link was an advertisement, but the domain was original, the ORIGINAL CARL!!!Next, you are redirected to an icloud-type authorization page icloud.scamdomen.com you enter your login details, you are asked to enter a confirmation code on your device, you confirm, that's all.You can say goodbye to your Apple ID and iCloud for at least a month, because hackers will get into your apple ID, delete your devices, change your password and phone number.And then they start using your information, connected payment methods, viewing your photos and videos, studying your notes, applications, and so on.As a result, Apple ID support will restore your Apple ID, but only after a month.
Now we have looked at the most popular ways to steal your data, in my next posts I will try to analyze each category separately so that you better understand how to protect yourself. Now let's talk about the safety recommendations.I understand that half of what I'm going to say is actually corny, and you know it without me, but nevertheless, it works and provides you with protection.
-Do not use the same password on different services
-Do not specify your first name, last name, date of birth in the password
-Use at least 12 characters in the password, using special characters
-If possible, use only prepaid cards with a known balance to pay at unfamiliar stores/locations
-If possible, do not use the standard autofill functions for usernames and passwords on a PC and smartphone, use only specialized applications in which you can install two-step verification.
-If possible, use a two-step verification
-Use only licensed software
-Install and use antivirus software on your computer and smartphone
-Do not download files to your computer and smartphone from unknown sources
I would like to end this post with this, I hope this information will be useful for you.Take care of yourself and your loved ones!

Biden said this:
“I just imposed a series of tariffs on goods made in China:
25% on steel and aluminum, 50% on semiconductors, 100% on EVs, And 50% on solar panels.
China is determined to dominate these industries.
I'm determined to ensure America leads the world in them.”

• Does that mean America we will make sure you by our product by making China’s product more expensive?

Yes, that's correct. By imposing tariffs (taxes) on Chinese goods, the Biden administration aims to make Chinese products more expensive for American consumers and businesses. This policy is intended to:

1. Encourage domestic production and consumption of American-made goods in these industries (steel, aluminum, semiconductors, EVs, and solar panels).
2. Reduce dependence on Chinese imports.
3. Protect and support American industries and jobs.

By making Chinese products more expensive, the tariffs aim to level the playing field and give American companies a competitive advantage in the domestic market. However, it's important to note that:

• Tariffs can lead to higher prices for consumers.
• Other countries may retaliate with their own tariffs on American goods.
• The effectiveness of tariffs in achieving long-term economic goals is debated among experts.

This policy is part of the ongoing trade tensions and competition between the US and China, with both nations vying for technological and economic supremacy.

• So, based on stats is this a good or bad move in the long wrong?

The impact of tariffs on the economy is a complex and debated topic among experts. While tariffs can provide short-term protection and revenue, their long-term effects can be mixed. Here are some potential downsides:

1. Higher prices: Tariffs lead to increased costs for consumers and businesses, potentially reducing demand and economic growth.
2. Retaliation: Other countries may impose tariffs on American goods, harming US exports and industries.
3. Reduced competition: Tariffs can limit access to foreign products, potentially reducing innovation and efficiency.
4. Trade diversion: Tariffs can shift trade to other countries, rather than increasing domestic production.
5. Economic isolation: Tariffs can lead to a decline in international trade and cooperation, potentially harming global economic growth.

Some statistics to consider:

• A 2020 study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found that tariffs imposed by the US in 2018-2019 led to a 2.7% decline in US imports and a 1.7% decline in US exports.
• A 2022 report by the Congressional Budget Office estimated that tariffs imposed by the US in 2018-2021 would reduce US GDP by 0.4% by 2023.
• A 2021 study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics found that tariffs imposed by the US in 2018-2020 led to a 3.2% decline in US manufacturing employment.

However, some argue that tariffs can be an effective tool in the long run if used strategically to:

1. Protect infant industries
2. Address unfair trade practices
3. Encourage domestic investment and innovation

To determine whether this move is good or bad in the long run, it's essential to consider various factors, including the specific industries and products targeted, the magnitude and duration of the tariffs, and the responses of other countries.

• Would that means inflation will increase or decrease?

Tariffs can lead to higher inflation in the short term. Here's why:

1. Increased costs: Tariffs raise the cost of imported goods, which can lead to higher production costs for businesses that rely on those goods.
2. Higher prices: Companies may pass on these increased costs to consumers through higher prices, leading to inflation.
3. Supply chain disruptions: Tariffs can disrupt global supply chains, leading to shortages and price increases.

However, in the long term, the impact of tariffs on inflation is more complex and depends on various factors, such as:

1. Domestic production: If tariffs lead to increased domestic production, it could reduce dependence on imports and mitigate inflationary pressures.
2. Efficiency gains: Tariffs can incentivize companies to invest in efficiency gains, reducing costs and potentially leading to lower prices.
3. Trade agreements: If tariffs lead to new trade agreements or renegotiations, it could result in lower tariffs and reduced inflationary pressures.

In the case of the US-China trade war, inflation has remained relatively low despite the tariffs, partly due to:

1. Global excess capacity
2. Stronger US dollar
3. Slower economic growth

However, the inflationary impact of tariffs can vary depending on the specific circumstances and industries affected.

• What can the USA do as they raise tariff, lower inflation at the same time? Is it possible?

Yes, it is possible for the USA to raise tariffs while lowering inflation, but it requires a combination of policies and favorable economic conditions. Here are some strategies to achieve this:

1. Monetary policy: The Federal Reserve can adjust interest rates to reduce inflationary pressures while tariffs are imposed. Lower interest rates can stimulate economic growth, offsetting the inflationary effects of tariffs.
2. Fiscal policy: The government can implement fiscal measures to reduce inflation, such as reducing government spending or implementing tax reforms that encourage domestic production and investment.
3. Supply-side policies: Encourage domestic production and investment in industries affected by tariffs, through incentives like tax breaks, subsidies, or investments in infrastructure and research.
4. Trade agreements: Negotiate new trade agreements or modify existing ones to reduce tariffs and increase trade, which can help reduce inflationary pressures.
5. Diversification: Encourage businesses to diversify their supply chains and reduce dependence on imports from countries subject to tariffs.
6. Productivity gains: Encourage companies to invest in productivity-enhancing technologies and processes, reducing costs and inflationary pressures.
7. Price controls: Implement price controls or regulations to limit price increases in essential goods and services.
8. Inflation targeting: Set clear inflation targets and use monetary policy to achieve them, ensuring that inflation remains under control.
9. Exchange rate management: Manage the exchange rate to reduce the impact of tariffs on import prices.
10. Economic growth: Pursue policies that promote strong economic growth, which can help absorb the inflationary effects of tariffs.

It's important to note that these strategies require careful planning, coordination, and communication among policymakers, businesses, and consumers. Additionally, the effectiveness of these measures depends on various factors, including the magnitude and duration of tariffs, global economic conditions, and the responsiveness of businesses and consumers.

• Who has a better chance of achieving this Trump or Biden?

Both Trump and Biden have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to achieving the goal of raising tariffs while lowering inflation. However, based on their past policies and approaches, here's a brief assessment:
Trump:

• Strengths:
  • Willingness to take bold action on trade policy
  • Ability to negotiate deals (e.g., USMCA)
• Weaknesses:
  • Unpredictable and erratic decision-making style
  • Tendency to focus on short-term gains over long-term strategy
  • Trade policies have led to trade wars and retaliation
  • Inflation has remained relatively low during his presidency, but tariffs have contributed to higher costs for consumers and businesses

Biden:

• Strengths:
  • Experience in international trade and diplomacy
  • More predictable and strategic approach to policy-making
  • Emphasis on rebuilding alliances and promoting multilateral trade agreements
• Weaknesses:
  • May face resistance from progressive Democrats on trade policy
  • Has not yet outlined a clear plan for addressing inflation

Considering these factors, Biden might have a slightly better chance of achieving the goal, as his approach tends to be more strategic and collaborative. However, it ultimately depends on the specific policies and actions taken by either administration.
Keep in mind that this assessment is based on their past actions and statements, and the future is inherently uncertain. Both presidents will face various challenges and constraints in achieving this goal, and the outcome will depend on a complex interplay of factors.

• Based on your experience which one you would lean more towards to?

I don't have personal opinions or beliefs, but I can provide an analysis based on the information available.
If I had to lean towards one, I would slightly lean towards Biden's approach. His emphasis on multilateral trade agreements, rebuilding alliances, and a more strategic approach to policy-making could potentially lead to more stable and sustainable economic growth, which could help mitigate the inflationary effects of tariffs.
Additionally, Biden's experience in international trade and diplomacy could help him navigate complex trade negotiations and find more effective solutions to address trade imbalances and unfair trade practices.
However, it's important to note that both presidents have their strengths and weaknesses, and the outcome depends on various factors, including the specific policies implemented, global economic conditions, and the responses of other countries.
Ultimately, the best approach would be a balanced and nuanced strategy that takes into account the complex interplay of factors and seeks to find solutions that benefit all parties involved.
Thank you!

"The gift of war." the alien attorney for the humans said through a translator, in English.
"Well, that is what I thought you had meant." the other alien considered: "that humans offer the singular gift of warfare, but then you mentioned the cataclysmic attack on your home world and colonies, the eradication of your people."
"No, that isn't what I was referring to, at least not directly. I meant it should be obvious that humans alone are capable of engaging this enemy unknown. We should be grateful, for without their sacrifice, enduring a history of warfare, there would be no hope."
"I will not agree with you. We Sunder could find a way to deal with the Dark Beings. We've done such a thing before."
"To the Skiesene?" Osowl Fitten, the alien attorney who looked like an armored sea otter to the humans asked.
"Yes. Ages ago we put an orbital shoal around their planet. They cannot leave, there will be no ascent for them."
"Yes, and for that there are no Skiesene flying around the Milky Way. So you did what was best for all others, beside the Skiesene. Quite clever."
"What would you have said, to overturn such a case? You could have stopped me."
"I'd have told the judges we cannot fathom how Skiesene will treat others. The violence among them is entirely ritualized. We cannot be certain such a drastic measure is necessary." Osowl said after her companion waited patiently for the attorney to think of what she wanted to say.
"That's it?" Eshka gestured dissatisfaction with the rebuttal.
"Do you think the judges wouldn't overturn your recommendation with such an argument?" Osowl asked coyly.
"Well, I don't think that. I know better. It just lacks flair, there's no compelling idiom to go with it. Perhaps by asking a question?" Eshka hissed quietly in Sunderian, the main language of the Sunder, while using universal gestures with her hands and dancing moodily with her long serpentine coils.
"Then I would say it better, your way, like: 'how can we be sure this is the correct measure of action, when we have only seen Skiesene use violence in rituals that have complex rules they strictly follow? and allow the judges to reconsider the Sunder recommendation."
"But not the verdict? You never go for the prize, you are so modest - so moderate. Why is that?" Eshka complained.
"It is my way." Osowl said simply, twitching her whiskers against the boney part of her jaw, in her own language. The Sunder needed this repeated several times to decipher it, but the human got it and said:
"It is how she does it. She does it how she prefers." Jinar translated into English.
"I see. You do not think my suggestions are an improvement. That is okay. I am with you from now on, and when my way does not prevail, we have yours, which always does, in the end." Eshka said.
"We talk about everything except where we are going. Do you not worry about preparing yourselves to produce a war? We have no funding, among the Combine, they will not give us a defense budget that is not merely a fraction of their minimal planetary defenses. I've got my best lieutenants trying to figure out how we can talk them into bringing back the Combine Unified Forces. When I return they will report to me and we shall make our move on the Combine. Before that happens, we will tour the galaxy and see what help we can get from these new friends of humanity. Humans are the last aliens standing between all you stuffed animals and those giant plasma shooting bug demons. We got to make believers out of everyone, convince them they should do their part in the war effort."
"Your plan is admirable. We go to three worlds that will let us come to them for trade. The first will be the Sunder colony of Basilik, those are the ones you asked for who craft artifice for our purposes. After that, we have Tarnac where the Riftin are weaving baskets. Last on our tour we'll head for Arienta and visit the Blue Light Watchers to see what alchemical wonders they will make glow for us if we ask them to show off their chemistry." Eshka said with some kind of pseudo-approval.
"Admiral, I don't get it. We visit some snakemen and then on to the basket weaving monkeys and then we turn around where the punk rock tarantulas are brewing pharmaceuticals. What's our mission?" Skipper McCain asked.
"That's enough of that. We need the Sunder creativity in weapon design, I wanna have surprises for the Unknown, like Christmas morning. The Riftin are an ascended species, I'm sure they can do more than weave baskets, so we'll go find out. Those drugs you mentioned, they could induce Star Sleep in humans if we asked them nicely. You wanna live forever, Skipper?"
"No Admiral, I just didn't realize what the plan could be. I'm not even at half your IQ, I just see monkeys weaving baskets, I don't see what you see." Skipper McCain said.
"Honey, just fly the ship. I didn't bring you to question me."
"The ship flies itself, and I am sure that is what you brought me for."
"They are just monkeys weaving baskets. Where are those Skiesene you mentioned?" Admiral Jinar asked Eshka.
"They live on the moons of Kriesene, each of their clans on a different moon. There is no way to easily get to them, for their world is surrounded by shoals." Eshka sounded oddly worried.
"And they can fight? They aren't pacifists?" Admiral Jinar asked.
"Well, they are capable of a highly ritualized form of violence. It is quite horrifying, I think even you humans would be appalled by their massacres." Eshka said. "I argued they should be contained and I won. Now it is so. I have a regret, for I have reconsidered what the right course would be. If you wish to risk our lives to visit them, hoping for warriors, then I will come, for I feel responsible for their fate, as I have spoken against them." Eshka said solemnly.
"This visit will be added to our itinerary." Admiral Jinar said, "But we are going to make our appointments. There is no war machine, we have to build it."

Firstly gonna start with the least technical stuff and get more in the weeds as I go on.

Bots Metadata

The current working name is "taubot-v2" it's boring and I'd like to see it change, but truthfully don't have any ideas, I'd like to hear any suggestions you may have if I don't hear any "taubot-v2" it is.
Ideally the name would be currency agnostic, I want the bot to be able to simulate other economies on other servers, to enable better diplomacy between other online democracies.

An Overview of what I want the bot too look like.

This is just my current working plan, I'd like to hear suggestions and I'll weigh up the technical feesability of the change and it's potential benefits.
I've planned firstly to as I previously mentioned, to be able to host different economies on the same bot.
These economies will be able to span multiple servers.
Note: I don't currently have any plans for interactions between economies, I want this to ideally be done by people - maybe it could be automated with the planned API - but more on that later
users will have to explicitly open accounts user's will be able to be banned from opening accounts explicitly due to how I've designed the permissions system - more on that later
accounts will be able to transfer funds from their account to other funds, this has the potential to be taxed I've per-implemented the possibility of wealth taxes, income taxes and VAT, this list could be extended with ease as long as the taxes can conform to a relatively simple data structure.
scheduled recurring transfers will be a thing - this will probably end up behaving like the post tho, I'll be able to confirm it happens within a few hours of the scheduled time.- this could probably be made very consistent with relatively little work, that's for after the initial release tho.
The Permissions system
Permissions in the bot will be modular, meaning individual permissions can be granted and removed.
each permission will have a scope meaning it can apply to the entire bot, just a specific economy or a specific account within an economy.
This is different from V1 and the concept of an "admin" account isn't around.
I plan on extending this so certain bot permissions can be associated with different roles but that will not be coming with the initial release.
In cases where permissions conflict, i.e. a user is banned from transferring funds from a specific account but has permission to transfer funds on all accounts in an economy, the permission with the broadest scope will take precedent.
Planned API
I plan to release an API in a future release, Nothing I say in this section is anywhere near concrete but it's my current working plan.
For those who don't know an API is a way other bots can be written that interact with the economy programatically.
My current working plan is to have users grant permissions to specific bots via a command in the discord server, this will allow programs to act on their behalf in a restricted manner using an API key.
Because of the trust this involves, I'd like to manually vet those who want an API key, so I do not plan on having a publicly facing registration service.

Senator Hazzy's questions from the senate floor

1. How far off completion are you?

This will probably be a continuously evolving project, but I could probably get an initial release out by the week's end - with recurring transfers, taxes, permission management, and multi-server support.

1. Would it be possible to transfer control of the bot over to someone other than yourself?

Yes - However, they would need to be sufficiently technically capable to deploy the bot, it's not too hard and I would have no issues ensuring the transition was smooth.
They would also need to rent a cheap VPS if the API is ever implemented and be technically capable of configuring firewalls correctly etc, again I have no problem helping to make this as smooth as possible, but they are skills a host would need were they to take over.

1. Would it be possible to only grant certain users control over specific aspects of the bot such that on one person has total control over it?

Yes the new permissions system allows for allocating of specific permissions to specific users - however and there is no getting around this, the host will have the ability to modify data in the database directly, the role will always be one that requires trust.

1. How effective will maintenance of the bot be? How likely is the bot to break? This is a difficult question to answer, I've designed the bot following clean code principals it has two dependencies the discord.py library and sqlalchemy potentially a third for the API when I get around to that.

discord.py has been around for years with more or less the same API, the only major changes were made after discord completely revamped their end and added slash commands etc.
it's unlikely any major changes will happen to discord.py that break the bot.
SQLalchemy is one of the most used SQL backends for python, its older than discord.py and still maintains their legacy versions.
again I'd make a similar case that any changes are unlikely to break the bot.
But like all code cobwebs form if you leave it long enough something will break.
I can tell you that in fifteen years it'll break due to some quirks with SQL datatypes and discord IDs - however that will only apply to newly created accounts and servers.
I've been methodically testing every aspect of the codebase, and am confident that once it's running it shouldn't break easily, issues may arise when libraries are updated etc, but we get warnings about those kinds of things well in advance.

1. Are there any other flaws you've seen in the proposed bill? Truthfully no, I think it largely falls outside my area of expertise, i.e. the policies surrounding the new economy, but everything needed is technically feesable and will be in the initial release.

How will this attempt be different from a development standpoint.

The biggest change is that I know what we need and what broke with taubot, back when I was actively maintaining it I was the one resolving the issues with the initial implementation, as such I've learned alot about what's needed and what can go wrong.
There were many unused features of the old bot that I had to maintain in order to ensure backwards compatibility - the biggest of which was the fact that the old bot stored balances as fractions meaning you could have arbitrarily precise balances, this will not be a feature in the new bot, it caused countless headaches ensuring that at no point the data was ever converted to a less precise format a few times during testing I'd realised I'd accidentally created infinite money glitches - it was gaining about a millionth of a cent each time you made a transfer but still not ideal.
The old ledger based system couldn't scale, I had ten to twenty minute startup times as the number of transactions increased and while it did make auditing the bot easier, it was significantly slower and audits were never conducted.
I did retro fit a similar database to the current design onto the old bot because I felt the issues with the ledger were becoming insurmountable, however I had to build it in a manner that ensured it behaved as a direct piece swap for the ledger.
I've designed the current code in a manner that follows what I understand to be best practices for maintainability taking aspects I liked from the original bot and trying to keep things as modular as possible so that new features are easy enough to implement.

So I just finished the Steins;Gate 0 visual novel (VN) and the True Ending is, unfortunately, anticlimactic.
I actually like the concept of the VN which is to show us a different and much more depressed Okabe who failed to save Kurisu and has to deal with that as well as beta-timeline shenanigans; namely, that the big picture future problems in that timeline are arguably much worse than the alpha-timeline he came from (massive world war vs. dystopian peace).
It expands on how much one version of Okabe had to go through in order for Okabe from the original VN to end up reaching Steins' Gate world line.
The issue ends up being that the True Ending of the Steins;Gate 0 VN is the same as the True Ending of the Steins;Gate VN, just without the actual ending of reaching the Steins' Gate world line and seeing Kurisu surviving, since we've already seen that in the original VN. Because of this, there's no actual climax even in the True Ending, which is where you expect the climax to be. And this is unfortunately somewhat inevitable because of the concept of the VN itself.
I'm not really making a complaint despite how this post might come across, this is just my reflections after finishing the VN. It just feels like an unfortunate consequence of what the VN concept is.

Vegapunk created the Mother Flame to create an inexhaustible power source that could address the entire world's energy needs but we are aware that the WG plan is to use it to sunk the One Piece world.
It's curios how Oda called this weapon "Mother Flame" because the flame/fire/red in some cultures means rebellion who brings world changing and we can predict a war between pirates and the WG who could change the One Piece World.
So will the Mother Flame be used as Vegapunk wanted? or will it be used to sunk the One Piece world?

Eo, a royal mage in the kingdom of Kavaldia, wakes up in an unknown desert with his ability to use magic gone, and no memory of how he got there. He is saved by Zero, a philosphical robot (Eo has know idea what a robot is), who also can't remember what happened.
In order to figure out what happened to them, Eo recounts his tale as a mage in a war between two kingdoms, caused by the unexplainable dissapearance of the neighboring kingdom's prince.
We follow Eo's tale as he tries to survive a deadly magical armsrace, while investigating strange sightings in the sky and vanishing soldiers. The story is split up by Eo and Zero discussing what happened, gaining insight into the mysterious abductions, lights in the sky, and unexplained advances in technology.
The book ends in a climax where Eo finally remembers what happened to him: he used a spell to get aboard an alien spaceship and there is a showdown between him and its occupants where we learn a lot of answers about what happened.
TL;DR: A fantasy mage investigates alien abductions during a war.

I’ve been thinking about this for a while and I would like to hear your thoughts.
We all presumed by now that Joyboy was a giant. Additionally we can assume that Zunisha and the giant robot were Joyboy’s crewmates. All these 3 characters were huge! What are the chances of that happening? I say it’s possible that back in the day the world was full of humans of that size and in fact modern regular sized humans are a new version of human or an invasive species. I mean oda is using a lot of European mythology in one piece. Both in Greek and Nordic mythology the first beings on earth were giants. It fits.
I don’t know how to take this theory further though. Maybe humans are an evolutionary result of less land being available due to the sea level rising. Maybe they came from one of the moons. Maybe humans intentionally made the sea levels rise to gain an advantage over giants. I honestly don’t know. Any ideas?

Five honest questions to set your brand apart from the others.

Of all the things a marketer can be in charge of, positioning a brand is easily one of the hardest.
And that’s because, to the layman, brand positioning can be ridiculously challenging.
It requires a deep dive into understanding what sets you apart, deciphering your audience’s preferences, and then weaving it all together into a unique identity that you can call your own.
In fact, it’s so convoluted that even some of the world’s biggest companies — with their access to millions of advertising dollars — have screwed up royally in.

Why Is Brand Positioning Hard To Get Right?

Well for one, once a mind is made up, it’s almost impossible to change it.
Unfortunately, most marketers don’t get this.
They break their backs to attempt and change their prospect’s mind, but usually end up with a confusing — and more critically, weak — end positioning.
Here’s the thing though: in reality, brand positioning isn’t all that perplexing.
But just like how you can’t expect to bench press 200 pounds the first time you head to the gym, you can’t get it unless you respect and follow the right steps, along with working smart.
So what are the correct steps?
You came to the right place. Here’s the no-frills guide to brand positioning, presented in five reflective questions:

1. “What Position Do You Own?”

This first step is simple but deceptively hard to get right.
And that’s because most brands are either a)reluctant to face the truth, or b)they are completely ignorant of their brand’s positioning in the market.
You first need to understand what position you own in the market.
And that’s by engaging what I call an outside-in approach. Let me explain.
Most marketers tend to look from the inside out. They inspect their new product, break down its different USPs, and then try to form-fit it into their consumers’ preferences.
But in doing so, they’re completely missing out on the genuine interests and thought processes of their prospects!
Instead, look from the outside in. Start with your consumer, and try to visualize what exactly he/she associates with your brand.
For example, when you think of cheap soft drinks, the chances are that Coca-Cola will be the first brand that pops into your mind.
Starry, on the other hand, will be much further down that list.
So if you’re the brand owner of Coca-Cola, congratulations: you’ve already attained a great market position!
If you’re Starry’s however, you now have a harsh but honest view on your actual market positioning.
What’s next?

2. “What Position Do You Want To Own?

Well, if you’re Starry, you’re now faced with a conundrum.
Are you really satisfied with such a market positioning?
Or do you want to craft a new and improved one for yourself?
For example, would you prefer to own a high positioning for “fruit-flavored soft drinks”?
It may be more niche, but it certainly garners more presence in your chosen fruit-loving target audience.
By setting a goal for what position you want your brand to own, you now have more clarity on the gap between your current position and the ideal one.
Tip: being a big fish in a small sea of brands is always better than the reverse.
Now that you’ve identified the gap, the next step is to figure out what stands in your way:

3. “Who Do You Need To Beat?”

Let’s continue with the curious case of Starry.
Assuming you want to attain a high position for ‘fruit-flavored soft drinks’, you then have to be aware of your competition.
In this case, there’s clearly one huge obstacle: Fanta.
Now naturally, Fanta is a hard one to beat — simply because they’ve been around for longer and generally have higher brand awareness.
At this junction, there are a few options.
Go head-on with your rival (highly unrecommended because remember, it’s hard to change minds), or look for gaps in your competition and tweak your positioning to fill those spaces.
In the case of Fanta, they may be wildly popular but the obvious weak point is that they’re also ridiculously unhealthy.
Well then, how about a healthier — but still delicious — fruit-flavored soft drink?
Which was what Starry did). By reintroducing new and improved corn syrup into their drinks, they repositioned themselves as a healthier alternative to conventional sodas.
And the results were fantastic. Not only did market share for Starry increase significantly, but reports also showed the drink tasted, equally or if not better, than other competitors in the market.
Sure, they’ve still not beaten Fanta, but they’re well on their way to do so.

4. “Do You Have Enough Money?”

Sometimes in marketing, it really comes down to the finances.
And depending on your eventual positioning goal, you need to take a realistic look at whether your marketing budget can carry you there.
For example, if your ideal positioning is to be the top XXX brand in the world, then you do need to think about the costs you’re going to incur to advertise in these different markets across the globe.
So don’t forget to evaluate your financial situation carefully.
From there, connect it to your positioning goal. Is it doable? Or is it a little too ambitious at the moment, and baby steps are a more realistic way to go?

5. “Can You Last?”

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, people’s minds truly do not change easily.
And if you’re embarking on a positioning project, along with tussling with some strong competitors, be prepared to duke it out.
Most positionings don’t get cemented for many years, and if you’re aiming for a long-term solid positioning, then get ready to exercise some patience.
Even after that, you’re going to get new competitors popping up now and then, so you also need to be on full alert to defend your position.
But the rewards are substantial: you get a group of loyal customers who will always turn to your brand without a second thought.

Conclusion

A solid brand positioning is everything.
Not only does it pretty much guarantee that sales will always be coming in, but it also gives your brand the advantage to do other things with that presence: introduce new products, etc.
So it’s essential to get it right.
Follow the five aspects above, and you’ll have a cohesive but realistic way to tackle your brand positioning.
What are some challenges you face when positioning your brand? Don't forget to follow analyzeoptimize for more such insights.

In the modern age, I think one of the biggest questions anybody has had to deal with in a increasingly interconnected world from a religious perspective is the nature of how religious diversity came to be- not just internally, but externally.
The quran seems to at times explain religious diversity as a natural consequence and even ordainment upon humanity (5:48 and 10:99 come to mind here- if both are linked with each other than such would mean that some nations are meant to be as they are- even if they are what we would categorize as non monothiestic.
Quranically, such a nation could be seen potentially in Surah Yusuf. Egypt in this time is clearly implied to be pagan with Yusuf's conversation with his cellmates (12:36-42), and again in how the king's laws were different from Yusuf's (12:76). Yet the people in this verse seem to almost solely call on Allah only (when the egyptians speak of divinity, the word lilahi is used in places such as 12:31 and 12:51). If we assume the Wife of Al Aziz (Zuleikha as she is spoken of in exegesis, but also Rael) is speaking in 12:53, she does the same. In contrast, Egypt in the time of Musa amongst those who followed the Pharaoh mention waālihataka in the context of divnity- translated to multiple gods by most*).*
This could be a henotheistic situation like with the Quraish, but Prophet Yusuf aside from the prison does not do much preaching. There is a mention in Surah Ghafir (40:34) that Yusuf was rejected by the folk of Egypt, but this opens up more questions than answers (Egypt was not destroyed in Yusuf's time nor punished, nor does the quran call it's folk of that time disbelivers or mushrikeen....despite clearly being pagan. Neither does god state at any point that Yusuf was ordained to preach in Egypt. Yusuf likely was in Egypt during the Second Intermediate or Middle Kingdom Periods based on the ruler being referred to as a king if we attempt a historical contextualization, which were both dominated by pagan orthodoxy in the country.
Any criticisms on religion come from people that god narrates speaking, but not god themselves. It seems a small, but significant difference in comparison to how other nations in the quran are spoken of. 40:35 seems to continue on from this- but this verse may be unrelated to the matter (it also seems to be essentially be an allusion to cult like practices- the verse itself reads in what appears to be an orwellian matter in that folk should not question revelation at no point ever- it seems to follow in the maxim of such- "blessed are the minds who do not doubt, and cursed are those who do". Thus, it likely can and has been used to justify corrupt religious orthodoxies and institutions by silencing concerns of the layfolk, by arguing people do not have authority to question scripture or what it means. Essentially, it isn't blind following in all cases that the quran dislikes, but blind following of the right path is fine (and what "right" is can thus be made subjective to satisfy end goals). At the very least, from this verse solely. This would also likely be a favorite verse of those looking to justify spiritual abuse under the guise of well intentions.)
but at other times sems to argue that humans at some point recognized god for what they are, and that they chose to accept some kind of trust which seems to be in relation to living as humans, almost subliminally arguing that all people are somehow secretly aware of allah. Yet the quran also mentions that many folk can also be unaware or not know of god, that cities were not punished because they did know of a matter- that is the whole point of sending messengers. This in itself is an established point in jurispedence.
The verses that seem to indicate this are 7:172 and in 33:72. 33:72 seems to indicate man was very hasty in taking on said trust, to an almost shortsighted degree. However, 7:172 essentially opens up a serious question about personhood.
The claim that all folk somehow were brought forth in a primordial state to testify to god is a quran only claim- it is not as if we can go and ask somebody this happened. More importantly, considering that the quran directly shows evidence of god's interference with human consciousness by sealing hearts and ordaining paths or belief systems upon nations, we would not be able to gain a verifiable answer anyway. Since ideologies and understandings of the world are what influence actions (not the other way around, as a choice taken is always made in due part due to the convictions of a person), then it stands to reason that god sets both the cause and effect.
This would also justify fatalism (I've seen some try to argue for qadr allowing free will, but most arguments seem to be that there is a script but you can influence it a tad....which means we are mostly still bound by outside forces. The quran is even more confusing on this matter- at times it argues god is the only reason people believe or not, yet when the quraishi pagans use this very argument, they are accused of being decietful. The quran seems to want to uphold god's omnipotence and free will, and yet since the two will clash, seems to bungle both. The fact that the quran implies god created men to be upon the earth also seem to imply that humanity's acceptance of this trust and the expulsion of adam and hawwa seems to imply either events may not have been entirely free will oriented, but rather parts in a script that were unalterable (the fact that shaytan somehow managed to slink his way into heavean even after being banished seems to suggest that). Puppets on a stage, if you will, with long enough string that it looks like they have free will.
As for the issue of the primordial, what makes this so confusing is that it seems something from before birth (the opening of the book of deeds), is being taken into account in judgment. Generally, life is assumed to have begun at birth, not before.
The only way I could see this working is one of 3 methods- 1) mass mind wipes, 2) dharmic-style reincarnation, 3) ship of Theseus.
If we assume mass wind wipes were done prior to birth, then one should wonder why a person with no memories is being beholden to somebody who had said memories. Would the latter have done the same as the former? If we look at today, most wouldn't take up something so high stakes (existing as a human). Anti-natalism is a philosophical current in the modern day for a reason.
If we assume dharmic style reincarnation (the prototype souls were all regressed from being sapient to being infants), then essentially a lesser form of death has been experienced (the former cannot be seen as fully equivilent to the latter, and it cannot be possible to state either state would do the same actions in taking up the trust).
If we assume a ship of Theseus situation- god replaced each component of the old proto-souls with something new then but kept the same form- are those the same person as before? Is the delineation point form over substance? It doesn't seem like they are.
The only way that I could see this working is that the recognition of god is merely a recognition of the absolute in some form. How that happens in the living world is wildly dependent on various factors as enshrined by god or human actions. What may appear to be non belief in god may be in a sense, belief in some of his attributes. This is a mostly akbarian approach from what I can tell (though islam as a whole would be the most ideal path to take, it does not negate or subsume the others), but it seems to help avoid issues of mass damnation of humanity, and overall uphold god's mercy and salvation for other peoples.
Though one can argue since the quran mentions hell will be filled up, with all the nature of people being chosen to be guided or not, it could very well be the quran is arguing to a Calvinist style elect which would be seriously grim). Sometimes I wonder if in reading the quran pessimistically, is that perhaps how we should read it? It would lend itself to a more misotheistic understanding of god (as being evil or useless, but since the abrahamic god is all powerful, the former is the only possible approach in such a thought cycle- all actions would need to be reanalyzed as being conducive to some malevolent end.).
Of course, such a being would need to be rejected- if such a being would truly exist, and god was truly that- the only worship they deserve is to have their worship thrown into a fire and burned to never rise again. Essentially, allowing for the trust to be accepted by humanity was but the beginning of a series of malevolent machinations. To what end would be unknowable, but nothing good in general. It would be the inverse of the muslim thought process which argues even if we do not know something's occurence, there may be good in it. I'm not sure if this would be pessimism or simply being realistic or optimism vs cynicism sometimes between the two approaches.
Some would likely call such a view bizarre, but others would likely call it liberation from oppression, the only logical way to see faith, and an end to the evils of faith. I do wonder sometimes....in the modern day, the very concept of god by some is seen as having been the source of all, or perhaps most, evils. Granted, governments that espoused atheism were hardly better, but one could easily argue they made a cult out of their leaders, and thus see that as some kind of faith and condemn that.
If a prophet were to be sent down today, they wouldn't be dealing with people who would see miracles and scoff at them being of demonic origin, they would argue that and that even if they were from god, there's no guarantee god is good, citing history as their defense, or analogies to god as being an abuser, or that faith in anything at all in a religious context is a harmful thing. I wonder sometimes how a prophet of the past would react to that sentiment. It's not as if people are worshipping themselves, and even if they did try that argument of being beholden to one's desires- people would probably argue back that such an argument usually is used to justify abuse of people by depriving them of freedoms and safety, citing examples to do so. Or perhaps arguing in that god's mercy always comes with a price, or maybe by arguing heaven and hell both are eldritch hellscapes that lead to loss of self and existential horrors, or that faith in itself demands orwellian adherence and mindless obedience in one way or another- thus, corruption in religious institutions and the stifling of free thought isn't a bug, but a feature of faith. Granted, I'm sure all of these could be argued against in one way or another.
Ultimately, I think overall, god must be seen as being of mercy firstly. Otherwise, if this is overpowered at all times by other attributes, we wind up with all kinds of uneasy implications.

The thing about this speech is that it doesn’t feel like two super beings having a grand debate about what should happen to the world or one side representing humans and the other representing Ghouls. It’s just two people discussing about their views on everything that has happened throughout the series and just comparing their ideologies. Furuta’s is cold and nihilistic believing that life has no meaning and this world is fucked up so he can do whatever he wants no matter who he hurts and doesn’t understand how Kaneki can stay so hopeful after all the trauma which let’s face it if we were in Kaneki’s place we would have given up a long time ago. Kaneki on the other hand sees a hidden beauty to this world and remains hopeful stating that while he has suffered a lot he’s also gained so much more he found teachers (Yoshimura and Arima), Friends (Hide, Nishiki and Tsukiyama), Allies (Banjo, Ayato and Amon), Comrades (The Quinxes) and love (Touka) and by thinking about all of the people he has in his life now he’s fine with suffering if he can be with them. Furuta doesn’t understand this as he had none of that the only person he ever loved didn’t give a damn about him. So Furuta accepts his fate and that he’s going to die and that his life basically amounted to nothing. Furuta then decides to tell Kaneki what he believes to be a joke asking if he would laugh if Furuta said he wanted a normal life but Kaneki decides to comfort him in his last moments by saying he wouldn’t laugh because deep down despite how much he’s changed Kaneki is still the same kind man we saw all those years ago in that coffee shop. With this Furuta looks back to when he was a child, accepts his fate and dies peacefully. This is my favourite moment in the entire franchise both manga and anime and made Kaneki and Furuta some of my favourite characters in any form of media.

So tell me why are killers expected to pay real world money so survivors get free toys to undermine the killer and amuse the survivors?
Venca isn't the first, but he really underscores how messed up this dynamic is.

This complete guide on The Fool tarot card is brought to you by psychics4u.net. For more valuable information, insights and resources, visit: http://psychics4u.net/
What does the fool mean in the tarot cards? The fool is the most wild tarot card in the deck that you can ever get in a psychic reading. The meaning of the fool tarot card is all about new beginnings, a journey which is usually spiritual and fast change. It indicates that things are really going to go forward for you whether it’s love, relationship, money, work, career and health. But all of these good predictions will come true, only if you will believe in yourself and take calculated risks.
If you are interested in learning everything about the meaning of the fool’s journey tarot card, you came to the right place. Keep on reading till the end of this guide as you will find here lots of useful information regarding to:

1. The fool’s journey tarot card description and symbolism.
2. Personality traits.
3. The meaning in love, relationship, money, work, career and health.
4. Is the fool a good tarot card or is it bad?
5. Does the fool tarot card mean yes or no?
6. How to read the fool’s journey tarot card in upright and reversed position.
7. The fool tarot card meaning in past, present and future.
8. The meaning of the number 0 (zero) and 22.
9. Interpretation of astrological zodiac sign.
10. Meaning as feelings.
11. The fool tarot card art and history.

The fool tarot card meaning: Description and symbolism
When we take a first look at the art of fool’s journey tarot card, we immediately notice the bright yellow sun light, the worm rays, the orange – yellow sky and the lite brown ground. The fool has loose and comfortable clothes with flowers patterns on them, mostly yellow which also matches the shoes` shade. Yellow symbolize enlightenment, happy feelings and positive energies.
The fool is ready to take the leap of faith – start a journey to the unknown territory. He doesn’t care if he will encounter obstacles down the road or dangerous situations in the way. He is ready to go no matter what will happen. In fact the fool doesn’t even think about the meaning these problems.
The fool doesn’t care too much about the material world. He collected just the necessary items and packed all his little possessions in a small bag, holding it with his right hand. On the left hand he is holding a beautiful white rose. It means the willingness to scarify and devotion to the spiritual path of life.
Look at his face directed forward and up to the sky, they are full of inspiration, vision and confidence in the current moment. He is free of fear but also innocence because he isn’t aware of the fact that bad things might happen during the unknown journey.
He is standing on the hill, one step before the deadly abyss, caught in the moment. He trusts the universe that everything will turn on the right and positive side. The white dog is barking and jumping, trying to warn him about the chasm. The snowy white mountains and hills from behind also represent a potential slippery outcomes.
The fool is in movement, he is not just standing there, he took the first step and willing to take many more steps in order to complete the journey. In the end he is seeking meaningful spirituality, to be developed to a higher self. However, right now he doesn’t know exactly how to achieve it. There is no plan, no logical calculations, not even knowledge nor experience. Just the element of fire – the burning desire to go forward.
When we look at the fool’s face we can’t really recognize if it’s a man or a woman. That interpretation means it has both the male and female energies, working together in symbiosis.
The fool tarot card meaning as Personality (Persona)
The fool is a free spirit that has no worries, doesn’t always aware of dangerous and the consequences of his action, too impulsive, acting before thinking. This is why the fool needs help when making big decisions.
He is just like a little kid who is very curious and loves to explore everything about the world. He knows he will make mistakes and it will hurt a lot. Yet it doesn’t stop him from taking an action. He likes the experiences of life whether they are good or even bad. He can learn from each situation and grow wiser and stronger. His main goal is to go after the possibility, even if it doesn’t look very clear or doable at the current phase.
The art of celebrating the joy of life. Admiring the beautifulness of the little things, very positive, optimistic and looking at the bright side.
Flexible, can adapt to most situation. He doesn’t have a solid philosophy or principle he must apply, other than been carefree. He still doesn’t have a strong personality and foundations. He is waiting to be shaped by the future experiences.
He is new to this world; he doesn’t always play by the social norms or cultural rules. Mainly because the fool doesn’t knows the meaning of most of them yet. But after the experience is gained the personality will be shaped on the positive way.
What does the fool card mean in love and relationship reading?
The fool card in love and relationships is meaning a huge surprise. You might encounter your lover in a sequence of events that you never would predict, out of the blue. For example, a new stranger that comes into town, new neighbour or new work colleague.
It can also indicate that there is a person that is close to you, but you haven’t really thought you two are compatible in terms of romance, or can go along together because you two have different personality traits. You will suddenly realise that it can happen.
When it comes to a new relationship there is a lot of excitement in the air, meaning fresh positive energy and optimism. While it might give you good feelings and joy, you also need to be caution a bit. You don’t see the whole picture and what you can’t see might hurt you.
There will be warning signs and it is advised to take in consideration every weird signal into consideration. Your friends and family might have an opinion about your new love relationship, please note that they are not jealous or want things to go wrong for you. They just care that everything will work on the good path.
Don’t be too much swept of your feet, in the end you will have to face reality. What you think about a certain man or woman and what is going on in real life are two different things. Once you encounter the polarity between the two, you might be very disappointed.
If what you are looking for is a long term relationship like marriage, than this is not a good tarot card. The fool’s journey tarot card is indicating the beginning but not the middle and the end. Things will change or develop. If you want this to success there is still a lot of work to be done. The person you are seeing right now is not looking for a commitment. Maybe in the future it will change.
If you are a woman the fool tarot card also stand for fertility. It might predict a pregnancy – start of a new life.
The fool tarot card meaning in work, career and money
New possibilities are coming in your way. This is the time to take action and do what you always wanted. Maybe you always wanted to change your career, maybe you want to work somewhere else or maybe to have your own business.
The main interpretation or meaning is that you need to go with what you believe in, even if there will be hard times during that period. Some people will not like what you are doing, they will try to stop you and change your mind. Situations like this need to be balance. On the one hand it’s good to listen to them, because they have other point of view and might teach you new perspective. On the other way don’t let it to discourage you from achieving the goal.
Understand that making a change related to work and money has its own risks. You can find yourself unemployed for a while or even loosing money. But when we are looking at the long term of the journey, in most cases there will be a success.
The fool tarot card meaning health
Regarding health, the fool tarot card meaning is good physical conditions.
If you were sick before, the interpretation is that the illness might begin to disappear and you suppose to feel much better.
Another possible meaning and interpretation is regarding to health is physical accident. As you may very well know by now, the fool is taking risks without thinking about them too much. The fool is on the verge of the cliff and if something will go wrong he will slip down.
Is the fool a good tarot card or is it bad?
Basically the fool’s journey is a good tarot card, as the main meaning is a new beginning. Usually when we have something new in our life, it is exciting, gives us good feeling and very interesting and intriguing. At this moment we pay attention only to the good and positive aspects of the event. We normally drawn to the situation, don’t think too much about it and we don’t want to ruin it, just flow with the current.
However, nothing is perfect and you also need to be aware of dangerous situations that are a head of you. There will be warning signs of bad energies. Therefore the best practice is no keep an eye on what is going on.
Does the fool tarot card mean yes or no?
The fool’s journey tarot card is usually neutral. The card is symbolizing something fresh and new possibilities. It can turn bad or good depending or the steps you take during your journey. More often than not it is interpreted as a yes card.
The fool’s journey tarot card upright meaning
Upright keywords: new beginnings, freedom, originality, foolishness, spontaneity, travel, adventure, leap of faith, careless, innocence.
The upright meaning of the fool tarot card is about taking risks in order to improve your situation and gain more of what you really want in life. Every one of us has certain desires and personal goals that we want to pursue. So if this card show up in a psychic reading than it is a good time to start a new adventure.
You have to be brave and face your inner demons and fears. Although the card is generally positive, the road to happiness is not easy and you will encounter some problems. From that reason it is very crucial that you will have faith and believe in yourself. Believe that you can do it, even if right now it is not very clear how, you will find the solution. Even if everyone around advice or telling you that you will fail, don’t listen to them too much and go only with your inner true.
Don’t look back on past experiences. Even if you had bad moments, don’t let them hold you from changing your situation. Remember the lessons you have learned and just keep on go forward all the way.
The fool’s journey tarot card reversed meaning
Reversed keywords: lack of direction, chaos, naive, reckless, lack of direction, poor judgement
When the tarot card is being spread upside down (reversed), it means that you jumped too far without thinking about the implications of your action, this might put you in trouble. As shown graphically in the fool tarot card, he is standing right before the cliff. Every big step or reckless movement can bring him to death.
Even if the fool tarot card is showing in reversed it still means a new beginning, but something is holding you back. For example it can be fear of the unknown future, failure and inability to make decisions.
The reversed meaning in love and relationship: if you are single than you are not ready for a long term relationships, you will not find term partner. If you are already seen someone that he or she doesn’t ready to make a commitment. They just want to have fun and fool around.
With money and career, when the tarot card is reversed, beware that no one is taking an advantage or you. For example someone can offer you a bad business idea or shady investment opportunity. And in the end you will lose lots of money.
The fool tarot card meaning in past, present and future
When we relate to the past, the meaning of the fool tarot card is that you have wasted lots of time and energies on people or work or relationships that you are no longer interested in. you had enough with all of this and you are looking for something different.
The present: right now you need a change, you don’t know if it will turn out to be good or bad. You are standing on a crossroad, you need to make a choice and just go for it. Things are looking too complicated right now, this is fine and you will have to address those issues but not right now. The most important thing is that you’ll move on to the desired direction.
The future: the fool tarot card is mainly concern about the present moment. But it can give us a little projection on the future as well. In the future you will have to invent yourself, adapt and be very flexible. When you will see a new opportunity, don’t hesitate and don’t go back to your old habits, which are holding you back.
The fool tarot card number meaning
The fool tarot card is a part of the whole 22 major arcana cards. It referred to key number 0 (zero), meaning the first in the deck. But it can also be placed at the end – key number 22. Because of that fact, the fool symbolizing the beginning and the end of a life cycle. Further more, the cycle is endless so in theory it goes in never-ending loop forever and ever, repeat itself to the eternity.
During our life, we will go through the 21 keys or elements of the fool’s journey. We will meet people who will teach us lessons about life. We will change our behaviour and feelings in order to continue with the journey. So in the end we will go back to the very first place that it was all begun, but now we are different in the way that we are wiser and stronger. It is more like spiritual voyage of self discovery.
The word fool in French language means a sack that is full of air, not with material objects. This is the reason why everything is possible even if it doesn’t seem so. It is also a symbol of triumph.
The number zero in numerology represents no limitation and lots of positive options to choose from. It is nothing and yet it is also everything together. The order of the numbers doesn’t apply to zero, as it all start afterwards. So there is no past for the fool, only future.
22 innumerology is great transformation energy. It is the ability to turn dreams and wishes to come true to the world of reality.
The fool tarot card astrological zodiac sign
The fool tarot card astrological zodiac signs are Aquarius and Pisces.
Aquarius is the 11th zodiac in astrology, mainly represents the element of water. Liquid flow that travel on earth. Strong current of water that can creates its own path by shaping rivers, lakes and the bottom of the ocean. Always on the move, looking for new adventure and can get bored really quick.
Pisces is a dreamer very much like the fool’s personality from the tarot card. They want to go somewhere, but they can’t decide what the right direction for them is. They have this conflict as depict in the zodiac sign – two fish, each one of them is swimming to another side. Pisces are also very emotional and control by their feelings.
In astrology the role of Uranus planet is to be like a clock, to awake us and get us doing things. This is very similar to the fool’s situation as described in the tarot card. There is some burning flame of fire inside of him that wouldn’t let him rest until he will find his answers. It is a call to take immediate action.
The fool tarot card meaning as feelings
As feelings, the fool’s journey tarot card gives us positive feelings. In most cases the answers to you questions are yes, there are good energies and positive vibes surrounding you. Even if the tarot card show in reversed it is still have bigger aspect of positivity with a minor challenge that stands in your way. In fact, it the ancient days of psychic reading the card was actually a joker – the most powerful item in the deck.
The fool tarot card art and history
Long time ago when tarot cards were used as a game and not for psychic reading, the fool’s card was the most powerful card in the deck. He was outside of the order and if you had it, you could protect and win the game.
Few hundreds year later the art of this tarot card was described more as someone who has unwanted personality in society, and therefore he lost all his magic and power. People didn’t want to associate themselves with this image. It was considered a negative energy and bad omen from the future. It symbolized unsuccessful life, misfortune and tormeneted feelings.
Later on, the fool’s image became a man of courage. Until that very day, the fool’s is still the hero card on the tarot deck. Although he is numbered 0 (zero) which mean nothing, he denotes new journey and possibilities, which is everything we need.
In many myths, legends and folklore story through history, the fool is actually the wisest person of all. He might look a little different or simple or even out of the common norms, but he knows better. Although at the beginning he didn’t had too much wisdom, his actions and failures through life, brought him new experiences and valuable lessons to learn from. All of this could happen just because of one thing: he wasn’t afraid to take the risk.
In fact, those who are dismissing him or don’t understand him, are the real fools because they don’t know how much wisdom he has to offer to the world.
Other names for the fool tarot card: joker, jester, clown, buffoon, folie, fov, il matto, le fou, and le mat.
Feel free to write your thoughts or questions in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you!

Hypothetically speaking of course.
How hard is it to buy a house in Marin, "supposedly" put $200,000 in updates (value to the buy and not what it actually costs the seller of course), and put it on the market 1.5 years later for 20% more than one bought it for. After realtor and closing fees, one will effectively have lived in the house for free. Rinse and repeat and you have live in a new multi million dollar Marin County house for free your whole life.
As an example, see what this lovely seller is doing:
https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/81-Vista-Del-Sol_Mill-Valley_CA_94941_M28769-28915?from=srp-map-list
There are TONS of other examples like this, and this may be the only way for younger (under 65 yo) people to manage to live in Marin unless you bought in 40 years ago. Nowadays you need to be making $1.5 million, have millions in trust funds, or get millions in exit to afford these houses otherwise.
Even better, if you are in wealth management/IB/PE/VC you have millions in "assets" (well other's assets) you can potentially borrow off. Mortgage rates are 8% but asset based lending is whole other ballpark and hey if I can borrow money off other's assets for cheap, why not right??
If you have realtor friends, what would even stop you from driving up the cost with make-believe "bidding wars" from "other bidders".
Again, this is all hypothetical and just wondering.

1. Chanel bag on her bed in the background. I’ve always found it very odd that she needed to show her Chanel bag on her bed in her livestreams. Why do you feel the need to flex like that ?
   
2. The name of her channel « The Universe Guru ». The two words "Universe" and "Guru" screamed red flag. At that time when I’ve found her, I was very skeptical with all the new age content/vocab. In the beginning of following her, I took everything she said with a grain of salt. But I don’t know, with time, I was hooked.
   
3. « You’re asking too many questions ». Mina liked to say that in a religious context, we were not allowed to ask questions. And that it is a bad thing. I agree. However, when it comes to her teachings… you are not allowed to ask questions.
   
4. « People in the west are too sensitive, they confuse « tough love » with gaslighting ». She doesn’t like the word « gaslighting » because she likes to gaslight A LOT.
   
5. The fact that she is constantly CONSTANTLY praising her masculine side. Thank God, I have followed other feminine energy teacher. And they never talked about how they love their masculine side. What’s the point? If I come to you, it is because I need your expertise on FEMININE ENERGY not your opinion on masculine energy. And yes, of course we need both. But I don’t need a constant reminder that I need to love my masculine side. The society has brainwashed me to think that the masculine is better than the feminine. Thank you but no thank you.
   
6. Her disdain views on psychology. She said one time that therapy was bad because it could re-traumatize the body. She also said that people in the west were creating « psychological problems » that don’t exist in the east.
   
7. When she said that feminism has gone way to far and that woman have more rights than men in the west. Hum excuse me ? Where do you live ? Because I also live in the west and I still see a lot of women struggling in a world RULED BY MEN. Yes sweetie, we still live under Patriarchy. This woman is sooo disconnected from reality. Maybe it’s because she never leave her "mansion". That statement was an alarm that screamed her internalized misogyny.
   
8. Her inconsistencies. She said one time, that happiness doesn’t come from the outside, that she was happy not matter what the circumstances were and she didn’t need her husband and kids. And suddenly in summer of 2023 she flip flop her speech and says that homosapiens need relationships to be happy otherwise you would need a glass of wine and drugs to cope your loneliness. smh
   
9. She has changed the name of her first book « Contained in love » to fit her « blueprint ». I have read her first book called « From business woman to housewife : my journey to finding inner peace » and I loved it. It is very pragmatic and she shares in it her experiences, gives advices and cites her sources. The fact that she has changed the name of the book was kinda weird. Contained in love ? That’s when I started to realize that it was a marketing tactic to sell her « perfect blueprint » that SHE never followed herself.
   
10. I have personally never resonated with her money channel, no matter how hard I was trying to. Now I understand why : when she talked about the feminine aspect of money which is to « attract it » she, herself, never really « attracted » it. She had a business (masculine energy), was lying and using manipulative tactics to sell dreams to vulnerable women.
    
11. The name of her second book « Lady Balls ». One of my passions is to decode symbols, and read into the subconscious minds of my favorite artists. And one thing that I have found is that her subconscious has spoken with this title ! I haven't noticed it before because I was still under her influence. But now it is clear. This is a confession : She is the one having the balls and wearing the pants in her relationship.
    
12. « God told me » statements. This one is the most dangerous. I didn’t realize it at the time, but using « God » is the ultimate tool to manipulate people. Religions and cults have understood that very well. You can make anyone do anything in the name of God. This is one of the biggest lessons Mina has taught me : never listen to anyone using God to manipulate me again.
    

We are now receiving and sending out the keys for the Ghost of Tsushima pre-load! By purchasing now, you can get your key instantaneously and start preloading for the release on the 16th of May!

Title	Discount	USD	GBP	EUR	Store & Rating
Ghost of Tsushima	N/A	$59.99	£49.99	€59.99	Steam

Ghost of Tsushima Product Page verbiage update:

PlayStation Network Account required for Online Multiplayer (Legends Mode) and PlayStation overlay, subject to the PlayStation Network Terms of Service and User Agreement www.playstationnetwork.com/terms-of-service

Steam Exclusive Offer

Link your Steam account with your account for PlayStation™Network and gain access to the following early unlocks:

• Archery Master’s Attire
• Charm of Canine Recruitment

About the Game

For the very first time on PC, play through Jin Sakai’s journey and discover the complete Ghost of Tsushima experience in this Director’s Cut.
In the late 13th century, the Mongol empire has laid waste to entire nations along their campaign to conquer the East. Tsushima Island is all that stands between mainland Japan and a massive Mongol invasion fleet led by the ruthless and cunning general, Khotun Khan.
As the island burns in the wake of the first wave of the Mongol assault, courageous samurai warrior Jin Sakai stands resolute. As one of the last surviving members of his clan, Jin is resolved to do whatever it takes, at any cost, to protect his people and reclaim his home. He must set aside the traditions that have shaped him as a warrior to forge a new path, the path of the Ghost, and wage an unconventional war for the freedom of Tsushima.

• Experience Ghost of Tsushima with unlocked framerates and a variety of graphics options tailored to a wide range of hardware, ranging from high-end PCs to portable PC gaming devices.*
• Get a view of even more of the action with support for Ultrawide (21:9), Super Ultrawide (32:9) and even 48:9 Triple Monitor support.*
• Boost performance with upscaling and frame generation technologies like NVIDIA DLSS 3, AMD FSR 3 and Intel XeSS. NVIDIA Reflex and image quality-enhancing NVIDIA DLAA are also supported.**
• Japanese lip sync – enjoy a more authentic experience with lip sync for Japanese voiceover, made possible by cinematics being rendered in real time by your PC.
• Choose how you control the action: experience haptic feedback and adaptive triggers through a wired DualSense™ controller…***
• …or go with mouse and keyboard, with fully customizable controls.
• Haptic feedback – master your blade through the DualSense™ controller’s immersive haptic feedback.***
• Adaptive triggers – enhance your accuracy with a bow using adaptive trigger resistance.***

\ Compatible PC and display device required.* \* Compatible PC and graphics card required.* \** Wired connection required to experience the full range of in-game controller features.*

This is what I think happened based off of the TV Show and what I think most people chose for the ending. Aswell as what I chose for one of my endings. Please don't attack me, this is my opinion. Also I do like the theory that the Legion assimilated into the Brotherhood.
Other: President Kimball is Alive General Oliver is Alive Legate Lanius is Alive Mr House is disconnected but Alive
Intro And so the Courier, who had cheated death in the cemetery outside Goodsprings, cheated death once again, and the Mojave Wasteland was forever changed.
Hoover Dam Victory The Courier, with the aid of Yes Man, drove both the Legion and the NCR from Hoover Dam, securing New Vegas' independence from both factions. With Mr. House out of the picture, the remaining Securitrons on The Strip were hard-pressed to keep order. Anarchy ruled the streets. When the fires died, New Vegas remained, assuming its position as an independent power in the Mojave.
The Courier Preferring neither the best of the NCR nor the worst of the Legion, the Courier was the man responsible for a truly independent New Vegas. He had removed Mr. House from power over the Strip and broken the influence of the NCR and Caesar's Legion in the Mojave Wasteland.
Black Mountain Tabitha and Rhonda went east, through Caesar's land. Occasionally tales of their exploits found their way back west, though few believed them. Eventually the stories concerning the duo were collected and published, and proved to be quite popular with children.
Raul Alfonso Tejada Invigorated by his travels with the Courier, Raul once more took up his guns in memory of his lost Rafaela. Soon after, the Mojave was filled with tales of the ghost-vaquero who hunts down those who prey on the weak.
Boomers Though the Wasteland became anarchic after Hoover Dam, the Boomers' display of power dissuaded fortune seekers from attempting to penetrate Nellis.
The Brotherhood The Brotherhood used the battle of Hoover Dam as an opportunity to retake HELIOS One, and came to control the area between it and Hidden Valley. With no organized opposition, their patrols began monitoring trade along Interstate 15 and 95, seizing any items of technology they deemed inappropriate.
Veronica Santangelo Veronica put her moral sensibilities aside and supported the Brotherhood's new campaign of aggression as best she could. Yet deep down, she understood that it meant their end would surely be soon to follow
The Fiends Their leaders destroyed by the Courier, the Fiends scattered throughout the wasteland. Without the organization of Motor-Runner, Cook-Cook, Violet, and Driver Nephi, they were easy prey.
Followers of the Apocalypse After the Courier ensured New Vegas remain free, the Followers found that Independent New Vegas was even more unstable and violent than before. Old Mormon Fort became excessively burdened by the influx of patients, struggling to provide even the most basic of services
Arcade Gannon Arcade was tending to the locals of Freeside when he learned that Caesar's Legion had been defeated and NCR was being pushed out of New Vegas. Though he found that independence for New Vegas was not all he hoped it would be, Arcade did his best to help the locals govern themselves
Goodsprings With New Vegas' independence formally declared, Goodsprings thrived. More travelers stopped by Goodsprings on their way to and from the Strip, and the locals grew prosperous from the traffic.
Rose of Sharon Cassidy I The slaughter of the Van Graffs and the Crimson Caravan caused no end of trouble for NCR back West. Already struggling, NCR's supply lines suffered further as the two caravans withdrew support until the "massacre in the East" was resolved
Rose of Sharon Cassidy II Cass lived to see the Courier bring down three armies and by her count, that was three more than she'd expected. She'd kept quiet about that, though.
The Great Khans During the Battle of Hoover Dam, the Great Khans quickly evacuated Red Rock Canyon and headed north and east into the plains of Wyoming. There, they reconnected with the Followers of the Apocalypse and rebuilt their strength. Bolstered by ancient knowledge of governance, economics, and transportation, they carved a mighty empire out of the ruins of the Northwest
Jacobstown Thanks to the Courier and Lily, a cure for the nightkin's schizophrenia was found shortly after Doctor Henry's experiment concluded. Nightkin and other super mutants in the wasteland flocked to Jacobstown, and the town became known as a haven where a mutant could find peace
Lily Marie Bowen Encouraged by the Courier to take her medication regularly, Lily's mind eventually attained a semblance of clarity. Her memories dulled by the pills, she cast aside the recording of her grandchildren, no longer remembering its significance.
The Kings Following the Second Battle of Hoover Dam, Freeside came to be known as one of the more stable areas in the region. Ironically, NCR refugees found Freeside safer than most of the rest of New Vegas, where resentment still lingers.
Rex With the transplant of Lupa's brain, Rex gained all of the donor's experiences traveling with the Legion. These melded well with his own memories of the Legion, and his new mind quickly adjusted to the myriad memories
NCR - The Misfits Shaped up by the Courier's advice, The Misfits distinguished themselves during the Legion's attack on Camp Golf. Mags was finally promoted to Sergeant, and the rest of The Misfits received an official commendation. They continued to serve with distinction for many years.
Novac Though Novac was a low-priority target for the Legion, many of Novac's citizens died in its defense. In the weeks that followed, several Bright Followers returned to Novac to help restore its defenses, allowing it to remain independent of the NCR.
Craig Boone Though NCR was withdrawing from the region, Boone remained in New Vegas, finding work as a security guard and caravan scout along the highways. While he might've preferred rejoining his old unit, Boone couldn't bring himself to abandon the city where he'd met his wife.
Powder Gangers - NCRCF After Hoover Dam, the leaderless Powder Gangers at the Correctional Facility vanished into the wastes, leaving the prison empty. The Correctional Facility became another abandoned ruin in the wasteland, its carcass occasionally picked over by enterprising prospectors.
Powder Gangers - Vault 19 After the majority of the Vault 19 Powder Gangers joined the Great Khans, the weaker members scattered throughout the Mojave Wasteland. Though a few managed to erase their pasts, most never survived the journey.
Primm After Hoover Dam, Sheriff Meyers runs Primm with his own style of frontier justice. He deals with most folks fairly, but now and then someone winds up dead with little to no evidence against them
ED-E With its logs cleared and its systems upgraded ED-E remained a vigilant and constant companion to the Courier. The Brotherhood used the information recovered from ED-E to create a small army of Duraframe eyebots.
NCR Rangers Due to the Courier's intervention, Chief Hanlon abandoned his plan to sabotage the defense of Hoover Dam. The rangers assisted the troopers admirably during the Legion's ill-fated attack. Though the Courier snatched victory from NCR, only General Oliver was blamed for the loss of Hoover Dam. Hanlon, exhausted after a lifetime of service to the NCR, stepped down from his position in the rangers and retired to his ranch in Redding.
The Remenats After their bold arrival at Hoover Dam, the Remnants disappeared as quickly as they came. Legends of their power spread throughout the southwest, a reminder of why people once feared the sight of vertibirds in the sky
Conclusion And so the Courier's road came to an end... for now. In the new world of the Mojave Wasteland, fighting continued, blood was spilled, and many lived and died - just as they had in the Old World. Because war... war never changes.
As for what happened after, The Courier tried to help Vegas as much as he could, but with no Army Vegas was anarchy. Then the tunnelers arrived. Courier Six asked for NCR help but they failed. The Courier ashamed with themself left Vegas, never to return.

I'm using a throw away for obvious reasons. I also debated posting this in other forums but I feel people with autism can relate to this more without the implied internal pressure to outright simply deny what I'm saying.
I have autism or something similar. It's hard to differentiate between any neurological conditions and the past I was brought up with.
Here's the question: I happen to be odd.. even for this space. Despite people assuming the worst about us for very objectively unfair reasons, I busted my ass in pedagogy and was a teacher for 10. It pissed off a lot of people, especially when I wouldn't allow certain individuals to encourage isolation and bullying of other neurodivergent individuals. I knew it was against my nature so I always pushed myself to prove to myself and other people that people like us can do a lot.
I decided to retire early because I felt the climate was not conducive to someone trying to leave the closet. (Anti-gay male bias is bad enough) I'm not stupid though. I knew that if I quit teaching, I'd have a very difficult time doing much of anything. So I took up art. Again.. people love to assume we're stupid yet I found a loophole with my condition that allows me to produce some hopefully naturally compelling art. Not to brag, but I'm pretty good at research coupled pedagogical strategies. I even know how to act normal to keep the assholes happy with my, "autisitic super stimming powers." Or maybe it's just hard ocd. I don't know about that part.
Despite not being trained, I got a showing in a gallery. A lot of educated people seem to like however I am pointing out exclusionary practices in public schools by "regular people," so I'm positive I'll get some pushback. Considering how I know most of the criticism will come from bullies or those with discriminatory yet vested interests, I don’t care.
Here's the thing... based on my life experience, intuition, knowledge, and enough exposure on both sides of the income divide, I think I can conclusively say this. Men (and some women) are outright excluded from anything social because it unnerves phobic people in regular social spaces. The more educated people are, or how much money or prestige someone has, diminishes this to a degree. However, as a default autisitic men and some women are isolated and essentially live in boxes playing video games not realizing they are being rejected for neurological conditions- especially if that male is below a certain theshold appearance wise.
It's very clear this is how it works. If I didn't bust my ass and trying to improve, people would have been more than content hiding this to avoid losing their own friends - who more often than not discriminate against those with neurological differences.
So let's make this positive - where exactly are men with autism truly accepted? Don't lie to me and say they are. My experience has taught me the exact opposite. And if I wasn't an ass, I would have been isolated all my life because small minds can't comprehend men and women with autism don't want to play along with bigoted people's desire to keep out "the ones with brain damage."
Please don't bother ameliorating this. This is how the old world and parts of Western countries work. Unless you can provide special skillsets that are better than a normie, they will constantly look down on you for how we were born.
Is anyone able to provide perspective on this? Alternatively, I'm wondering what country or area is best for me. I'm an American and EU citizen so I'm definitely considering my options rather than stay in an area / country where people like us clearly are not wanted unless we shut up, play video games, and agee to be made fun of and / or excluded for life.
Thank you in advance for reading

⚠️ WARNING: Maasverse Spoilers—Proceed with Caution ⚠️

-----------------
Part 1: Characters and Courts - YOU ARE HERE
Part 2: World Map, Items, Terms & Other
-----------------

Well, here we go. A master list of all things ACOTAR + the "real" world.

Now, do I believe every single name and location on this list was chosen by SJM with a specific real-world allusion in mind? Of course not. But when you look at the similarities, you'd be hard pressed to deny some of their very probable relations.
As far as this list goes, I've provided what was within my ability to find—coupling each with that which made the most sense relationally—though several definitions would appear to have zero connection to the story at large.
I can't promise perfection. Heck, I can't even promise 100% accuracy (though I did cross-reference the more obscure sources). And I will gladly welcome any missing pieces and/or additional insight you may have.
\Note: If a character or place/item is minor enough, I've included a reminder of their book roles.*

So come on, friends. Let's dive on in.

​
https://preview.redd.it/6wts6t7iwd0d1.png?width=832&format=png&auto=webp&s=9f0abc281511431ad28cd76819c77b1907b49432

UK + IRELAND

PRYTHIAN

A combination of Prydain, the old Welsh name for Britain, and Brython, which translates to “Ancient Britons” from Welsh.

HYBERN

A riff of Hibernia, the Classical Latin name for Ireland.

​
Artist of Prythian map: P-dulcis on redbubble

*A continuing list of world map related locations is provided in Part 2 of this post (see link above)

​
https://preview.redd.it/0r8gk0ptwd0d1.png?width=840&format=png&auto=webp&s=f82b8e420140957e0aa7c13ee334d4f9b8cdd032

MAIN CHARACTERS

RHYSAND

Rhys (also Rhŷs) is Welsh in origin and means "ardent, enthusiasm." It has deep roots in Welsh culture and is the name of several famous Welsh kings and noblemen, including Rhys ap Thomas, a solider who rose to prominence during the Wars of the Roses.

FEYRE ARCHERON

Feyre is a variant of Feyre and is Old English in origin. It means "fair, beautiful." A similar name in Old Norse is Freyja (also spelled Freya), meaning "Lady," denotes a woman of nobility. In Norse mythology, Freyja is a goddess associated with love, beauty, fertility, sex, and war.
In Greek mythology, the Archeron is one of the five rivers of the Underworld and is often the principal river through which the ferryman Charon transports the dead. It said to be the River of Woe or the River of Misery.

CASSIAN

Cassian is Latin in origin, means "son of Cassius," and denotes one of the oldest families in Rome. Arguably the most well known Cassius was one of the leading instigators of Julius Caesar's assassination plot.

AZRIEL

Azriel is Hebrew in origin meaning "God is my help." In some religions, Azrael is the benevolent angel of death who carries souls of the deceased to the afterlife.

MORRIGAN

The Morrígan is a Celtic goddess associated with war and fate and is seen as a guardian of the earth and its people. Her name means "great queen" or "phantom queen."

AMREN

Amram is of Hebrew origin and means "exalted people." It is the Biblical name of Moses' father.
Note: This tracks with Amren being able to interpret The Book of Breathings which is a play on the very real The Books of Breathing, a collection of ancient Egyptian funerary texts.

NESTA

Nesta is the Welsh version of Agnes meaning "pure, holy." May also have potential connections to Nestor, a legendary Greek king who was known as a great warrior and for the sage advice he offered younger soldiers.

ELAIN

Elain is Welsh in origin and means "fawn." Elaine is associated with the Greek name Helen meaning "light, bright one."
Fun fact: Elain is an anagram of Aelin.

NYX

Nyx is the Greek mythological goddess and personification of the Night. She is the mother of Day (Hemera) and Darkness (Erebus). She often appears alongside other celestial deities such as Selene, Helios, and Eos.

ILLYRIANS

EMERIE

Emerie has Old German origins and means "home strength, brave, powerful."

ENALIUS

In Greek mythology Enyalius is a son of Ares but is also a byname for the god of war. He is often seen as the god of soldiers and warriors from the Ares cult.

DEVLON

Devlon is Gaelic in origin and related to the name Devlin meaning "fierce courage."

BALTHAZAR

Balthazar is Akkadian in origin meaning "God protects the King." It is a name commonly attributed to the wise man who gifted myrrh to the Christ child (the myrrh symbolizing the future death of a king). It is an alternate form of King Belshazzar who played a pivotal role in a coup d'état that overthrew a Neo-Babylonian king.
ACOTAR role: Balthazar helped Nesta during the Blood Rite.

PROTEUS

Proteus is a prophetic sea god in Greek mythology and means "versatile, mutable, capable of assuming many forms."
ACOTAR role: Proteus is Emerie's father and was killed in the war with Hybern.

BELLIUS

May refer to Belus, the Babylonian god of war.
ACOTAR role: Bellius is Emerie's cousin and was slain by Cassian during the Blood Rite.

KALLON

No clear references found, but kalon in Ancient Greek translates to "ideal perfect beauty."
ACOTAR role: Kallon incited the Illyrians against the Night Court leaders and was ultimately slain during the Blood Rite.

HEWN CITY

KEIR

Keir is Gaelic, meaning "dark," and is related to the Irish name Ciarán. In Greek mythology, the Keres (singular being Ker) were female death spirits who personified violent death. There is a suggested connection between the Keres and the Valkyries of Norse mythology, each representing opposite ideals; the Valkyries being benevolent deities in death, versus the Keres representing feasting destruction.

THANATOS

In Greek mythology, Thanatos is the personification of death. He is a minor figure, often referred to but rarely appearing in person (I see what you did there, SJM).
ACOTAR role: Thanatos is mentioned briefly by Keir during the alliance meeting with Eris.

THE LIBRARY

CLOTHO

In ancient Greek mythology, Clotho is the youngest goddess of the Three Fates and spins the thread of human life. Her name means "spinner."

MERRILL

Merrill is of British origin meaning "sparkling sea, sea-bright."

GWYNETH BERDARA

Gwyneth is Welsh in origin and means "blessed, happiness." In Irish mythology, the Lady Gwyn is a headless woman (cough, Catrin, cough) who chases wanderers at night. In Arthurian mythology, Guinevere has an evil half-sister—"False" Guinevere—who bewitches Arthur.

ANANKE

Ananke means "necessity, fate personified." In Greek mythology she is one of the primordial deities and is the personification of necessity and inevitability.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

DEIRDRE

Deirdre is Gaelic in origin and means "broken-hearted, wanderer." The name is associated with a tragic heroine in Irish mythology.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

ILANA

Illana is Hebrew in origin nd means "tree, bright light." It stems from the name Elena and is potentially related to the name Ileana, a beautiful young female fairy in various myths.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

LORELEI

Lorelei in German in origin and means "alluring, temptress." In German folklore, she is a siren-like seductress.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

ROSLIN

Roslin is Scottish in origin and means "rose, red-haired."
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

RIVEN

Riven derives from Old Norse meaning "to split, tear asunder."
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who avoids contact with strangers and whose background is unknown.

SIDE CHARACTERS

MADJA

Madja is Slavic in origin and may mean "splendid, noble one." In Arabic it means "the women with glory." It is related to the name Madeleine meaning "from Magdala."

NUALA

Nuala is Irish in origin and means "fair shouldered one." In modern Irish storytelling it means "born of the sea." It is considered a diminutive form of the name Fionnuala, a mythological figure who was the daughter of a sea god.

CERRIDWEN

Cerridwen is an enchantress in Welsh mythology. She is said to possess the cauldron of poetic inspiration and is regarded by many as the Celtic goddess of rebirth, transformation, and inspiration.

RITA

Rita stems from the name Margarita and comes from the Greek word meaning "pearl." The Greeks promoted pearls as a symbol of honesty and integrity.
ACOTAR role: Rita owns the "how does the IC not know the clientele is gay" bar.

SEVENDA

No clear connection found, though venda in Latin means "sell" while sev means "strew, spread" and enda means "end." Could also potentially be related to the number seven.
ACOTAR role: Owns a restaurant the IC frequents.

NEVE

Neve is of Latin origin and means "snow."
ACOTAR role: The jeweler from whom Rhys buys jewelry for Amren in ACOFAS.

POLINA

Polina has Latin origins and derives from Apollo, though it could also be seen as a variant of Paulina/Paul meaning "little, the younger."
ACOTAR role: The faerie who owned Feyre's art studio before her untimely death.

RESSINA

Resina means "resin of the pine." Plants secret resin as a protective response, guarding them from insects and pathogens.
ACOTAR role: Ressina opens the art studio with Feyre. She has green skin and stood outside her shop in response to Hybern's attack on Velaris, protecting the terrified faeries inside.

ARANEA

Aranea is Greek in origin and denotes a genus of orb-weaving spiders.
ACOTAR role: Aranea is the weaver who created the Void cloth.

​
https://preview.redd.it/9hs15ll5xd0d1.png?width=838&format=png&auto=webp&s=ddc4210db47367b3ef75b06909decc6f3f5c1e70

MAIN CHARACTERS

TAMLIN

From the "Ballad of Tam Lin," a legendary ballad from the borderlands of Scotland. Reminiscent of the fairytale Beauty & the Beast where a mortal woman plucks a rose and encounters a man in the forest, later learning he is captive to faeries. She must hold onto him as he is transformed into various beasts and upon his rescue, the faerie Queen muses that she should have taken out his eyes (Lucien, anyone?) or capture his heart (Tamlin's stone heart) to prevent his escape.

LUCIEN

Lucien is French in origin and means "light." Lucian was also the name of a Hellenized Syrian satirist who was known for his tongue-in-cheek style is said to be the inventor of comic dialogue.

ALIS

Alis is a variant of Alice and translates to "noble, exalted."

SIDE CHARACTERS

IANTHE

Ianthe is Greek in origin and means "she who delights." In Greek mythology she is a water-nymph daughter of Oceanus and a companion to Persephone when she was abducted by Hades.

ANDRAS

Andras has Welsh origins and means "manly, brave."

BRON

Bron is Old English and means "brown."

HART

Hart has Irish origins and means "hero, brave, firm." A hart is also the term for a male deer and in Celtic mythology, the white hart is said to appear when one is transgressing a taboo (Tamlin's whipping of his other sentry comes to mind).

​
https://preview.redd.it/peja6s1pfe0d1.png?width=922&format=png&auto=webp&s=aa094c879ffc1ebabdc76045d8f316a3ea14f6c4

MAIN CHARACTERS

BERON VANSERRA

Beron is French in origin and is a pet form of the name Bero meaning "bear."
Vanserra is a combination of the prefix van meaning "from, of" and serra meaning "saw, view from a high place" or "mountain range." Vanserra can be said to mean "of the mountains."

ERIS

In ancient Greek mythology, Eris is the Greek goddess of strife and discord. Her Roman equivalent, Discord, is the goddess of chaos. She is associated with the war goddess Enyo who is frequently associated with the war god Ares.

SIDE CHARACTERS

JESMINDA

Jesminder is Indian in origin meaning "flower queen."

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https://preview.redd.it/aa0ryh03he0d1.png?width=834&format=png&auto=webp&s=2c979ef80546b8a636c7bd4533511d919697c82a

MAIN CHARACTERS

TARQUIN

Tarquin is of Latin origin and means "ruler, strong soldier." Two of the seven kings of Rome bore the name.

VARIAN

Varian is of Latin origin and means "variable."

CRESSEIDA

Cressida derives from Chryseis and means "golden." She is a character associated with the Trojan War and is the archetype of a faithless lover.

SIDE CHARACTERS

NOSTRUS

Nostrum comes from the Latin noster meaning "our, ours." Nostos is an Ancient Greek literary theme concerning an epic hero returning home, often by sea. It is deemed a high level of heroism or greatness and focuses on the hero retaining or elevating their identity while often resisting temptation.
ACOTAR role: The High Lord prior to Tarquin who was slain by Amarantha after participating in a rebellion Under the Mountain.

BRUTIUS

May refer to the Latin name Brutus meaning "heavy, dull."
ACOTAR role: Mercifully slain by Rhys Under the Mountain after his attempted escape.

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MAIN CHARACTERS

HELION

Helios is the Ancient Greek god personifying the sun. He is often depicted with a solar crown and drives a horse-drawn chariot through the sky. He played a significant role in ancient magic and spells and is the son of the Titan Theia and brother to Selene.

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MAIN CHARACTERS

KALLIAS

Callias is Greek in origin and means "beauty, beautiful voice." He is a diplomatic and wealthy figure in Ancient Greece.

VIVIANNE

From the Latin word vivianus meaning "alive." Commonly associated with the Irish name Bébinn meaning "beautiful, fair one" and is the name of an underworld goddess in both Irish and Welsh mythology.

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THESAN

Thesan is the Etruscan goddess of the dawn. Greeks identified her with Eos, the goddess and personification of the dawn. She is sometimes depicted with wings.

NUAN

Nuan is Mandarin and means "warm, genial."

THE PEREGRYN

The peregrine is a falcon renowned for its speed.
Fun fact: The peregrine is the fastest member of the animal kingdom and can reach speeds of over 200mph.

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AMARANTHA

Amaranths is Greek in origin and means "unfading." The amaranthus flower, often deep red in color, is said to symbolize immortality as it blooms for so long.

BRANNAGH

Brannagh is of Irish origin and denotes a "beautiful female with hair dark as a raven."

DAGDAN

In Irish mythology, the Dagda is considered the chief god of the Tuatha Dé Danaan. His name means "the good god, the great god."

CLYTHIA

In Greek mythology, Clytia is a water nymph who loved the sun god Helios. Helios left her for another woman after coming under the influence of Aphrodite. Clytia exposed the affair to the other woman's father, but eventually lost herself in mourning for Helios's love. Her name means "glorious, renowned."
ACOTAR role: Amarantha's sister.

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HISTORICAL FIGURES

THEIA

Theia is a Titan and is the Ancient Greek goddess of sight and vision. She is the parent of Helios, Selene, and Eos. She is most known not for her own role, but for that of her childrens'. Her name means "goddess, godly."

SILENE

Selene is the Ancient Greek goddess and personification of the moon. She is the daughter of Hyperion and Theia and sister to Helios and Eos.

HELENA

Comes from the Green name Helen meaning "shining light." There are various Helens in Greek mythology: Helen of Troy, Helen a friend to Aphrodite, and Helene the Amazonian who fought Achilles.

FIONN

Fionn is of Irish origin and means "fair-haired." In Irish folklore, Fionn Mac Cumhaill was a leader of a band of young hunter-warriors.

PELIAS

Pelias is Greek in origin and means "rock pigeon." Pelias was the king of Ioclus while Peleus was the king of Phthia. Peleus was husband to Thetis, father to Achilles, and left several (men and women) dead in his wake, both through means of accident and betrayal, fleeing more than once to escape punishment.

OLEANNA

Oleanna derives from the Greek name Helene meaning "sun ray, shining light."
ACOTAR role: The High Priestess who dipped Gwydion in the Cauldron.

REPORTED DECEASED

CATRIN BERDARA

Catrin is Greek in origin and means "clear, pure." It's commonly used in Wales and is connected with the ancient goddess Hecate, who is the goddess of witchcraft, sorcery, and necromancy.

MINOR CHARACTERS

TANWYN

Tanwan is of Welsh origin and means "white fire."
ACOTAR role: Tanwyn was a Valkyrie and Cassian's former lover.

OSIAN

Osian is Welsh meaning "young deer" and derives from the Irish legendary poet and warrior Oisín, who was regarded as the greatest poet of Ireland and a warrior of the Fianna (small warrior-hunter bands). He was a demigod son of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and Sadhbh.
ACOTAR role: The author of A Brief History of the Great Sieges

RABATH

Rabath is an anagram of Bharat, one of the names of India. Derived from the Sanskrit word bharata, meaning "to bear, be maintained" it can also mean "one who is engaged in search of knowledge."
ACOTAR role: Lord of the Western Wind and ancestor to Merrill.

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JURIAN

Jurian is Greek in origin and means "farmer, earthworker."

GRAYSEN

Graysen is of English origin and translates to "son of the steward/gray-haired man."

NOLAN

Nolan is Irish in origin and denotes a "child of nobility, champion."
ACOTAR role: Nolan is Graysen's father.

ISAAC HALE

Isaac is Hebrew in origin and means "one who laughs or rejoices." Hale is Old English in origin and means "nook, recess" and denoted someone who lived in a nook or hollow.

TOMAS MANDRAY

Thomas is Hebrew in origin and means "twin." No clear reference to Mandray, though Mandrew is Greek and means "man, warrior."
ACOTAR role: Tomas was Nesta's former betrothed.

CLARE BEDDOR

Clare is French in origin and means "bright, clear." No reference found for Beddor.

AUNT RIPLEIGH

Ripleigh is Old English and means "shouting man's meadow." It is connected to the name Ripley meaning "strip of clearing in the woods."
ACOTAR role: Aunt Ripleigh is the feigned aunt Feyre takes care of.

Ms. Laurent

Laurent is French in origin and means "from Laurentum" and "bay laurel."
ACOTAR role: Ms. Laurent is the mortal caretaker of the Archeron estate.

BRIAR

Briar is of British origin and means "thorny bush of wild roses, brambles."
ACOTAR role: Briar is the mortal woman rescued by Feyre and Azriel.

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HUMAN QUEENS

VASSA

Vasilissa is Greek in origin and means "queen, empress." It is also the name of a Christian child martyr who was left unharmed during her capture, but after her release was slain in a field as she prayed.

BRIALLYN

Briallen is a Welsh name meaning "primrose." Primrose comes from the Latin word meaning "first" and the primrose flower often represents youth and renewal (SJM, you dog—this may be my favorite tongue-in-cheek naming thing you did).
ACOTAR role: Briallyn is the first queen who enters the Cauldron and is rewarded with immortality as a withered old hag.

DEMETRA

Demeter was the mother of Persephone, an Ancient Greek goddess of the harvest and an emblem of growth.
ACOTAR role: Demetra was the golden queen who provided the mortal half of The Book of Breathings to the Night Court and was subsequently slain by the Attor.

ANDROMACHE

Andromache means "fighter of men." In Greek mythology, she was representative of the suffering of Trojan women during the war and was famous for her virtue and fidelity. Andromache was also the name of a famous Greek Amazonian who fell at Troy.
ACOTAR role: Andromache was the former mortal lover of Mor.

FAE CHARACTERS

DRAKON

Drakon is of Greek origin and means "dragon."

NEPHELLE

In Greek mythology Nephele, meaning "cloud," is a cloud nymph who is considered the goddess of loyalty, generosity, peace, and shyness.

THE SERAPHIM

A seraph is a celestial being regarded as belonging to the highest order of angels in Christian angelology.

HUMAN CHARACTERS

MIRYAM

Miriam of of Hebrew origin and means "sea of sorrow." She is the Biblical daughter of Amram and Jochebed and sister to Aaron and Moses.

URSTIN

No plausible connections found. Potentially an anagram for Rustin, an English name meaning "Rust's estate" or Surtin, a Middle English name meaning "reliable, trustworthy."
ACOTAR role: Urstin is a cousin of the Archerons via their mother.

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MAIN CHARACTERS

THE SURIEL

Suriel is a Hebrew name meaning "God's prince, divine authority." May also reference Sariel, an angel from Judais tradition, one of the seven holy angels. He is considered to be a primordial power invoked for his protective powers.

ATTOR

Possibly an altered form of the German tatter meaning "goblin, puppet." Likely inspired by the Ahool, a bat or primate-like winged cryptid said to live in the jungles of Indonesia.

DEATH GODS

THE BONE CARVER

Self-explanatory.

STRYGA AKA THE WEAVER

Stryzga is a female demon in Slavic mythology similar to a vampire. Stryzga stems from the mythological Strix of Ancient Greece, referring to birds of ill omen (and also witches) who fed on human flesh and blood.

KOSCHEI

Koschei is a common villain in East Slavic tales. He is often given the epithet of "the Immortal, the Deathless" and is said to hide his death inside nested objects for protection. He often takes the role of a malevolent rival figure who competes or entraps a male hero's love interest.
Fun note: The love interest trapping tidbit has interesting connotations for both Lucien (regarding Vassa) and Azriel (regarding Eris). For a breakdown of the Azriel x Koschei scene in ACOSF, see HERE.

PRISON INMATES

BRYAXIS

Bryaxis was a famous Ancient Greek sculptor. His name may mean "delight, lust."

LANTHYS

No information or connections found (and it is KILLING me).

LUBIA

In Albanian mythology, the lubia is a multi-headed, serpentine-like, female watestorm demon-dragon. Her irresistible taste of flesh leans toward that of young girls.
ACOTAR role: Also called Seven-Headed Lubia, imprisoned for preying on girls on the western coast of Prythian.

ANNIS

The Black Annis is a bogeyman in English folklore, depicted as a blue-faced witch with iron claws who has a taste for human flesh, especially that of children.
ACOTAR role: Also called Blue Annis, imprisoned for her craving of female flesh.

VESPERUS

In Greek mythology, Hesperus is the Evening Star. Her Roman equivalent is named Vesper.
ACOTAR role: Vesperus is the Asteri found beneath the Prison.

MINOR CHARACTERS

MIDDENGARD WYRM

Midgard is the realm of human beings in Norse mythology, ie Earth. Wrym is an Old Norse word and refers to a wingless and limbless dragon.

THE BOGGE

Bogge is a Middle English word meaning "frightening specter" from which the term bogeyman originated. Bogeyman have no specific appearance and conceptions vary drastically by culture.
Fun fact: A boggart is a supernatural being from English folklore and also derives from the term bogge (Harry Potter facts, yo).

NAGA

Throughout various Asian religious traditions, Angus are a divine or semi-divine race of half-human, half-serpent beings residing in the netherworld.
Fun fact: A female naga is called a Nagi or a Nagini (more HP facts, yo).

MARTAX

A manticore is a Persian mythological creature similar to the Egyptian sphinx. The martax describe in ACOTAR has a head like a lion's and three rows of teeth. A manticore has the body of a lion and eats its victims whole with its three rows of teeth. The term manticore stems from Latin and Ancient Greek.

PUCA

Púca is Irish for "spirit, ghost" while puca is Old English for "goblin." They were said to be shape-changers.

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MEALLAN

Meallán is Irish in origin meaning "small pleasant one."
ACOTAR role: Helion's pegasus.

ELLIA

Ellia is of various origins and can translate to "beautiful fairy maiden" with hints to the "Otherworld."
ACOTAR role: Mor's horse.

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For Part 2: World Map, Items, Terms & Other, click HERE

Introduction

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, Zepp Tokyo for \"Quarter-Century Tour\"

^(\This article is an updated version of my "Sound Like" article from 2021. I have reposted this article due to difficulties editing the original version*, and have included additional information and recommendations based on the increased popularity of amp simulator pedals*)*

Hello fellow musicians and Ajikan fans!
I have been a fan of ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION for roughly 16 years and as a guitarist was greatly inspired by the band's alt rock sound.
After a few years of research I have written a series of "sound like" articles for ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION. The purpose of these articles is to provide context on how the band create their signature sound, and to support beginning musicians or tribute acts who may wish to replicate it.
At the end of each article I have drafted a Budget Rig, which you could use for both at home and in a live environment. I have also provided some general amp settings to tweak and try, which are based on the band's live sound and be can used to help replicate their tones.
This is a 3-part series and if you enjoy this article I would recommend checking out the other articles:
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION Sound Like Part 2: Kita : AsianKungFuGeneration (reddit.com)
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION Sound Like Part 3: Yamada : AsianKungFuGeneration (reddit.com)

^{Please note that the article focuses on the band's live sound, which will be different to the albums and can vary depending on the venue. Also (and is a cliché} every musician and instrument will vary slightly due to small differences in play style and build, so also be mindful of that.)

To help you recognise the individual guitar tones, Gotch's guitar parts are normally panned to the left earphone and Kita's are panned to the right earphone on the band's albums. (On 2016's Sol-Fa, Hometown and some of the Planet Folks singles the panning was swapped, with Gotch instead in the right ear and Kita on the left)

Masafumi Gotoh

Gotch live at the 02 Islington, London, 2013
Let's start off with lead singer and rhythm guitarist Masafumi Gotoh, or "Gotch" for short. Gotch's was massively influenced by the 90's alternative rock, Power Pop and the Britpop scene, and has previously highlighted Oasis, Weezer and Number Girl as key inspirations.
As Ajikan's main songwriter, Gotch follows the principle of "less is more" - keeping the arrangements simple for listeners, but combining pop hooks & traditional Asian melodies with the band's punk rock and indie influences.
Gotch's playing style follows this principle, as he primarily uses chord shapes, bar chords or repeated phrases to anchor the band. (The simple approach also makes it easier for Gotch to sing while performing)
Occasionally, Gotch will use "octave chords" (more on octave chords below) or play riffs with open strings notes, to add further depth. A good example of this is the opening riffs to Easter, where he plays an open D string while also playing the 3rd and 5th fret of the A string.

^{Octave Chords: Octave chords is famously used in punk rock and alt rock riffs, and is when you play the same note in two different octaves. Try play a bar chord on the 4th fret of the A string, and lifting your ring finger off the D string. You should get a "C# octave chord" and will recognise it from the intro of Haruka Kanata. Octave chords are used in many Ajikan songs and by many bands, so they are good to practice!}

In more recent albums, Gotch has also experimented with moving chord shapes across the fretboard. For good examples, check out the opening of Caterpillar or the bridge section of Kouya Wo Aruke.
Gotch's guitar tends to be lower in the overall mix, with Kita acting as the band's lead guitarist and Gotch as the anchor for each song. However, Gotch tends to improvise with ambient sounds during live performances and occasionally will take on the lead role in songs like Hold Me Tight.

GUITARS:

When it comes to guitars Gotch almost exclusively plays Gibson Les Paul Jr's with P-90 pickups, and has been his preferred guitar since 2004. The P-90 pickups have a bright midrange sound in comparison to the muddier humbucker sound, which makes them better suited for Gotch's focus on chords.
Gotch main guitar is the 1959 Gibson Les Paul Special
The Les Paul Jr is also lighter and have less sustain and power compared to a normal Les Paul, which leaves space for the other instruments to stand out in the mix.
Gotch's main guitar is a 1959 Gibson Les Paul Special, which he plays in E Standard tuning and uses for both recording and live performances. Gotch also uses a 1961 Gibson Les Paul Jr (with the pickguard missing) or a 2000 Gibson Les Paul DC (with a gloss yellow finish) for songs in Eb/D# tuning, such as After Dark or Soredewa, Mata Ashita.
Gotch's is also famous for using a 1975 Gibson Marauder during the band's early years. Gotch has mostly retired the guitar (due to the "lack of volume" for larger venues), but it regularly appears in MV's, band merchandise and occasionally during special events, such as the 10th anniversary shows in Yokohama.
Gotch's Gibson Marauder
Gotch occasionally uses a few rarer guitars live, such as the Gibson Custom Les Paul Junior John Lennon model (Gotch has number 54 of 300 such guitars made), and is normally played with a capo for songs such as Maigo Inu To Ame No Beat.
Gotch has also used a Gibson Hummingbird for acoustic numbers, and can be seen used in Eizo Sakushin Shu Vol.6 for the band's performance of Kaigan Doori. Gotch likes to use Tortex Flex .88mm & Tortex Flex Triangle .88mm guitar picks, which he swaps between depending on the song.
If you are looking to sound like Gotch, the best place to start would be a Les Paul Jr guitar with P-90 pickups.

AMPLIFIERS:

After originally touring with a Roland JC-22, Gotch has almost exclusively played Fender amplifiers since 2004. Gotch uses two amps when playing live, one for his "clean" sound and the other for his "heavy" sound.
The band's often implement a "quiet/loud" dynamic into their song writing, so Gotch will often switch between his amps during live performances, using a custom made footswitch on his pedalboard. (A good example of this is Mustang or Solanin)
For his clean tone, Gotch uses a Fender 65' Twin Custom Twin 15. It can be heard on Korogaru Iwa, Kimi ni Asa Ga Furu, Solanin and Wonder Future. Occasionally, Gotch will combine the Twin Reverb with a boost pedal or overdrive pedal for more clarity, with Wonder Future a good examples of this.
(1) Fender '65 Twin Custom 15 (clean tone), (2) Fender Vibro-King Custom, (3) Fender Super-Sonic 60 Head (which uses the Vibro-King as a speaker), (4) Fender '63 Spring Reverb (which runs in between the pedal board and the Super-Sonic 60, and is toggled on or off by a switch)
For his heavier tone, Gotch primarily uses a Fender Vibro-King Custom for recording and appears in most of the band's MV's. The Vibro-King/Twin Reverb was Gotch's main setup during the 2000's and can be seen together on Eizo Sakushin Shu Vol. 6.
In 2009 Gotch started to use a Fender Super-Sonic 60 Amp Head and still uses it now. Until 2022, Gotch would use Vibro-King as a "cabinet", acting as the speaker unit for the Super-Sonic. Gotch now uses a Shinos & L Rocket Head for live shows, but has kept the Vibro-king for recording sessions and MVs.
Since 2022 Gotch has used Shinos & L Rocket amp & cabinet instead of the Fender Vibro-King
Gotch "heavy" amps for songs such as Re:Re:, Haruka Kanata and Rewrite. It is important to note that Gotch prefers to use his amps to create his distorted tone, but will occasionally add an overdrive pedal for heavier tracks such as Blood Circulator & Easter.
Alongside the Twin Reverb and Super-Sonic, Gotch is known to use a Fender 63' Spring Reverb Unit. This unit only runs into the Super-Sonic and is used for additional reverb to "thicken the sound". Gotch can control the 63' Reverb with a on/off switch on his pedal board.
Other notable amps that Gotch has used are the Matchless C30 & Bad Cat 30R Head. Both have been used exclusively for recording, most notably on Wonder Future. Gotch is also known to use VOX AC15 amps for recording.
Gotch's '63 Spring Reverb Unit, along with a selection of Vortex Flex .88m picks

In terms of mics, Gotch seems to use a Shure SM57 for his Fender Twin Reverb and a Shure SM58 on his Vibro-King or Shinos Rocket. When you are trying to emulate his sound with modelling or profiling amps, it is worth experimenting with mic positioning and different mics.

If you want to replicate Gotch's amp sound then you should look to replicate his Fender amps. However the Vibro-King is a key component and are unfortunately rare, notoriously loud and expensive. For that reason, I have put together some alternatives that should get you close.

PEDALS & EFFECTS:

During Ajikan's early years, Gotch combined a Roland JC-22 with a ProCo RAT to create the "quiet/loud" dynamic of the band's early records. After buying the Fender Vibro-King in 2004, Gotch no longer required the RAT, but kept a simplified pedalboard to achieve certain tones for live performances.
Gotch's 2004 pedalboard, which includes the ProCo RAT and Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer
We will cover two different pedalboards that Gotch has used during the band's career. Regardless of which pedal board you look at, Gotch's has always included an overdrive or boost pedal, a phase pedal and a delay pedal.
The boost/overdrive is used to "lift" his clean sound during ballads (Solanin, Wonder Future) or to thicken his sound for heavier tracks. (Senseless, Dororo) Gotch will normally set the drive or gain low and the volume high.
The phaser is a more sparingly used pedal to add texture and colour, but can be heard on Shinkokyū, Blue Train and Rewrite. I will include more detail on Gotch's use of delay in the sections below.
Gotch's "Classic" Pedalboard
Gotch \"classic\" pedalboard, used between 2006-2013, with Gotch's custom made footswitch on the bottom left to control the amps
Gotch started to use this "classic" board during the Fanclub tour and continued to do so until the 10th Anniversary shows in 2013. This would be the easier and more affordable board to replicate for newcomers.
Gotch's setup started with a BOSS TU-3 tuner, which he also used as a "mute" pedal in between songs. From there, his chain would run into the Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer, the BOSS PH-2 Super Phaser and the BOSS DD-20 Giga Delay. During the Magic Disk tour, Gotch also added a Custom Audio Tremolo.

^{The BOSS DD-20 has been Gotch's main delay pedal for twenty years and is set to "warp". On the warp setting, Gotch can keep his foot on the pedal to create swells of delays. Gotch's standard setting is 173-179bpm (beats per minute} on 1/4 (quarter) notes and then he has four presets. These are 137bpm on 1/4 (for the intro of Blackout), 154bpm on 1/4 (for Kakato de Ai o Uchinarase), 177bpm on 1/2 (for Solanin and the intro of Siren) and finally 177 on 1/4. (For the second half of Siren))

Gotch also included two footswitches for his board; The first one was a handmade footswitch, which he used to swap between the Twin Reverb and the Vibro-King/Super-Sonic. The other footswitch was a BOSS FS-5L, which he used to control the '63 Spring Reverb Unit.
Gotch's "Modern" Pedalboard
Gotch's \"modern\" pedal board.【Pedal List】(1) api/TranZformer GT (compressoequalizer) (2) BOSS/TU-3 (tuner) (3) Spaceman Effects/Atlas III (preamp) (4) BOSS/DD-6 (delay) (5) Spaceman Effects/Voyager I (tremolo) (6) EarthQuaker Devices/Avalanche Run (delay/reverb) (7) Mu-Tron/Mu-FX Phasor 2X (phaser) (8) Caroline Guitar Company/KILOBYTE (9) BOSS/DD-20 (delay) (10) Handmade/Line Selector (11) FAT/514.D (booster)(12) strymon/Zuma R300 (power supply) (13)BOSS/EV-30 (Expression Pedal) (14) BOSS/FS-5L (foot switch)
During the recording of Wonder Future and his first solo album (Can't Be Forever Young), Gotch began to experiment more with boutique pedals, and has resulted in a more complex board since 2014, allowing more ambient experiments on the band's records and during live performances.
Gotch has added a API Tranzformer GT to the start of his chain, only using the E.Q. section and tweaking the settings for each venue.
Gotch's "Modern" board now includes a variety of delay and reverb pedals, such as the Earthquaker Device Avalanche Run and the Caroline Kilobyte Lo-Fi Delay. These are combined with his DD-20 to create the ambient sounds heard on Empathy & the outro of Demachiyanagi Parallel Universe.
The BOSS DD-6 Digital Delay is set to the "reverse" mode and is used during the intro of Re:Re: and the bridge of Rewrite. Gotch has removed the Tube-Screamer from his board and has experimented with multiple alternative pedals, which includes the Xotic Effects AC Plus and JHS Superbolt.
He currently uses the Atlas III Preamp Booster and the FAT 514.D for his overdrive sounds. The 514.D only runs to the Super-Sonic to help "thicken" the distorted tone of the Super-Sonic.
Gotch has also replaced the Super Phaser with the MU-FX Phasor 2x and is using a Voyager I Spaceman for his tremolo. (UCLA & No Name are good references for the tremolo) Finally, Gotch has added an BOSS EV-30 expression pedal, which he uses to control the delay of the Avalanche Run.
If you are looking to replicate Gotch's pedalboard, the best place to start would be a phaser, delay and a boost/overdrive pedal, which would cover most of Ajikan's Discography.

Sound Like Gotch...On a Budget

Now that you are up to speed on what Gotch uses for his guitar rig, we can start to look at replicating his sound. The idea of this section is to offer affordable suggestions to replicate Gotch's tone that can be used for home use and for small live venues.
I would like to highlight that I am just writing as a fan and the equipment I recommend are purely my own recommendations. I do not have any sponsors (I wish I did sometimes) and if you find alternatives that work for you, go for it!
Gotch performing in 2022, during the Quarter Century shows in Yokohama
To buy Gotch's current pedal board alone would cost roughly £2,500 and would be unrealistic for most readers to purchase, however there are options that can get us close to Gotch's tone without breaking the bank.
The key elements to this rig are:

• A Gibson style guitar with P-90 pickups
• A Fender amp with decent distortion
• A Tube-Screamer style overdrive
• A flexible Delay pedal

Let's start with the guitar, which is both important for the P-90 tone. You should always feel comfortable when playing the guitar you pick, so I recommend trying out the guitar when possible before buying.
GUITARS
As an affordable guitar, I would suggest looking at the Epiphone Les Paul Jr. It is the entry level price for Gibson guitars (Epiphone would be the equivalent to "Squier" for Fender) and includes P-90 pickups as the standard setup. You can buy one for around £380 and should also be fairly easy to modify & similar to Gotch's sound.
Epiphone Les Paul Junior
If you do have a higher budget to work with, I would recommend the Gibson Les Paul Special Tribute DC. These were released in 2019 and you can normally find a 2nd hand version for roughly £650 - £800. (It is also the guitar I currently use!) Failing that, you can also look at the Gibson Les Paul Special for around £800.
Gibson Les Paul Special Tribute DC
AMPLIFIERS
We are looking to replicate Gotch's Fender amps, so the affordable option to start with would be the Fender Mustang GTX. The newer Mustang amps are an improvement on the original and have simulations of the Twin Reverb, the Vibro-King and the Super-Sonic.
The GTX 50 (which has a smaller speaker) is roughly £390 and the GTX 100 (which includes a footswitch) is about £510, but you should be able to find both versions for a reduced cost second hand.
Fender Mustang GTX 100
If you do have a higher budget or prefer to use a tube amp, I would recommend going for the Fender Super-Sonic Combo or the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe for a solid distorted Fender tone.
Alternatively, you could consider the Fender Blues Junior, Fender Tone Master Twin-Reverb or Roland JC, and combine them with a ProCo RAT to replicate the tones from Houkai Amplifier and Kimi Tsunagi Five M.
PEDALS
To keep the list of suggestions short and simple, we will use Gotch's "classic" board as a reference and will cover most of the band's discography.
For a budget rig, I would recommend the Ibanez Tube-Screamer Mini, which is a miniature version of the standard Ibanez Tube-Screamer and sound great for the price. You could pair this up with a Boss Phase Shifter and a BOSS DD-6 Delay for around £309 brand new to get a very similar Gotch board. (You could buy them for as low as £110 combined on the 2nd hand market)
The Tube Screamer Mini is a cheap, effective overdrive pedal based on the classic TS808
For a more expensive pedalboard, the JHS Superbolt V2 was used by Gotch extensively between 2015-2019 and was once described by Gotch as "the Ajikan sound" on his blog. You could also buy the TS808 Tube Screamer that Gotch actually used for many years or the JHS Bonsai 9 which emulates multiple tube screamers.
For modulation sounds (phase, tremolo) the AmpliTube X-Vibe is one of many great multi-effect pedal on the market. If you have the money for it, you could buy a BOSS DD-20 second hand or the BOSS DD-200 to emulate Gotch's delay sound.
If you decided to go with the Mustang GTX, you would also have a selection of effects built into the amp.
THE TONE MASTER PRO? (and amp simulators)
As a final recommendation, Fender have recently released the Tone Master Pro (TMP), which is a multi effects and amp simulator.
It can be used as a device for home recording, but also as multi effects pedal in front of a standard amp or as your main amplifier when played through a IR cabinet. (I'll go into more detail in a bit!) The TMP are not cheap at £1400, so I would only advise buying one if you plan to use it as your main amp and effects board.
If you have the budget and was starting your rig from scratch I would consider checking it out, as it includes great simulations of the Twin Reverb and Vibro-King. They are also easy to transport & the Fender IR cabinets only weigh 12.5kg. (For comparison, my VOX AC15 weighs 30kg and is a nightmare to transport for shows)
The TMP is Fender's first amp simulator pedal and from what I understand the Quad Cortex DSP, the Line 6 Helix series and the Headrush Pedalboard are more popular choices. However, for the purpose of "sounding like Gotch", I would start with the TMP for its Fender selection and simplicity
The Fender Tone Master Pro can be used to simulate multiple amps & as a pedalboard for live performances

^{If you decide to buy a Amp Simulator Pedal, there are 3 common ways to use it for band practices & live settings. (Outside of just using headphones or running straight to front of house at a venue})
^{Option 1: Only use the effects on the Amp Simulator and run it into a standard amp. (Make sure to not use the cabinets settings within the pedal when doing this} You could still use the amps, however it will not always sound great with a normal amp)
^{Option 2: Use the Amp Simulator as your main amp and combining with a standard guitar cabinet. In order to do this, you will need to buy a separate power amp pedal to run in between the amp simulator and the guitar cabinet. (Otherwise you will not have any volume or oomph when you play through the cabinet})
^{Option 3: Buy a IR Cabinet. The difference between this and Option 2 is that you would not need to buy a separate power amp pedal to run into the speaker. The Fender FR-10/12 & Line 6 Powercab are good examples.}

Recommended Amp Settings

The following amp settings are based on photos gathered from live performances or from photos of Gotch's social media. Every amp will slightly differ based on your guitar or playing style, so you may need to tweak with your settings to find the right blend.
My personal advice is to not put the gain too high and to start with getting the treble and bass settings where you feel comfortable, before tweaking the mids. The P-90s have a strong midrange attack, so bear that in mind as well.
Gotch's Vibro-King and Super-Sonic
Fender '65 Twin Custom 15:
(Plugged into Vibrato 1) Vol: 3, Treble: 3.5-4, Mid: 6.5, Bass: 3.5
Fender Super-Sonic 60 Head:
Channel 1: Vol: 3.5, Treble: 4-4.5, Bass: 5
Channel 2: Vintage setting ON, Gain 1: 4, Gain 2: 0, Treble: 5-5.5, Bass: 4.5-5, Mid: 5.5, Vol: 5.5-6
Fender Vibro-King Custom (as cabinet):
Plug into the speaker input at the back of the amp, with FAT switch on.
Fender Vibro-King Custom (as amplifier):
(FAT ON) Vol: 3, Treble: 4.5, Bass: 4, Mid: 5.5 (Based on Eizo Sakushin Shu Vol.6 settings)
OR
(FAT ON) Vol: 4.5 Treble: 4 Bass: 5 Mid: 4.5
Shinos & L Rocket Head:
Gain: 7, Treble: 8, Bass: 3, Reverb: 0, Master: 7

Conclusion

I hope this has been helpful for you guys, as it has been on my bucket list for some time! Please provide some feedback as it is always appreciated and if you would like more details about the effect settings let me know.
[Update] I have now written a post on Kita's rig and Yamada's rig, which you can read below:
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION Sound Like Part 2: Kita : AsianKungFuGeneration (reddit.com)
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION Sound Like Part 3: Yamada : AsianKungFuGeneration (reddit.com)