I'm the new IT admin at a mid-sized company (about 200 people), and I've been tasked with overhauling our entire device management system. My goal is to set up and scale our processes properly without setting ourselves up for future issues.
I’m hoping to learn from your experiences in the following areas: 1. Acquisition & Insurance: What are your biggest issues with device acquisition? 2. Lifecycle Tracking: Any tips for managing this smoothly across all devices? 3. Employee Support: How do you equip your team to deal with device issues? 4. Disposal: What are your strategies for disposal?
Also, are there any pain points that seem unavoidable as you scale up?
I'm pretty new to this area, so any advice or insights you could share would be helpful. Thanks.

Are you looking for a leadership position? Do you like to be involved in STEM outreach or robotics-related hardware/software*? Then, we're looking for you!*
SHARK! Robotics is looking for ambitious individuals ages 13-18 to be a part of our team. REQUIREMENTS AND MORE INFORMATION BELOW!
Who is SHARK! Robotics? SHARK! Robotics is a community robotics team based in Plano, Texas. We participate in FIRST Tech Challenge which challenges teams of 2-15 to program and design a robot to a predetermined game. Additionally, teams are expected to complete STEM-related community outreach. We have qualified to Regionals every year with having been a State Alternate in 2023. We can provide a collaborate platform to nurture STEM and business-aspiring leaders.
What kind of leadership positions do we have available? *Please remember that no position is paid. These positions serve as leadership opportunities for young individuals.* We have hardware, software, and business/community outreach positions available!
Hardware Positions:

• Designer & Builder - Design original robots using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) softwares such as OnShape. Build these robots using industry-level materials.

Software Positions:

• Programmer - Program our robots using FTC Java, machine learning algorithms, and convolutional neural networks (CNN).

Outreach Positions:

• Event Planner - Plan STEM-related outreach events at both the local and international level.
• Graphic Designer & Social Media Manager - Manage our social media and photography. Design aesthetic flyers and posts.
• Corporate Sponsorship and Partnership Advisor - Oversee and direct our sponsorship strategy.

For more information, please visit this document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AAvKozdsj22LOIRK6cAopZyvWTQDfHsJBzlxEPynvXI/edit?usp=sharing
REQUIREMENTS! - MUST BE MET

1. Applicants must be based in the DFW area.
2. Applicants must be at least in the seventh grade.
3. Applicants MUST fill out the official application form before May 31st: https://forms.gle/Ak3atEYmehcM1gV57

Applicants should expect to dedicate at least two hours to SHARK! Robotics each week and attend weekly meetings. For more information, please email [ftcsharkrobotics@gmail.com](mailto:ftcsharkrobotics@gmail.com)

I'm the new IT admin at a mid-sized company (about 200 people), and I've been tasked with overhauling our entire device management system. My goal is to set up and scale our processes properly without setting ourselves up for future issues.
I’m hoping to learn from your experiences in the following areas: 1. Acquisition & Insurance: What are your biggest issues with device acquisition? 2. Lifecycle Tracking: Any tips for managing this smoothly across all devices? 3. Employee Support: How do you equip your team to deal with device issues? 4. Disposal: What are your strategies for disposal?
Also, are there any pain points that seem unavoidable as you scale up?
I'm pretty new to this area, so any advice or insights you could share would be helpful. Thanks.

Cover Art!
Just because you’re transported to another world, doesn’t mean you’ll escape from your pain.
Abused by her parents, thirteen-year-old Frances only wants to be safe and for her life not to hurt so much. And when she and her class are transported to the magical world of Durannon to fight the monsters invading the human kingdoms and defeat the self-titled Demon King, Frances is presented with a golden opportunity. If she succeeds, Frances will have the home she never had. If she fails, Frances will be summoned back to the home she escaped.
Yet, despite her newfound magic and friends, Frances finds that trauma is not so easily lost. She is dogged by her abuse and its physical and invisible scars. Not only does she have to learn magic, she has to survive the nightmares of her past, and wrestle with her feelings of doubt and self-loathing.
If she can heal from her trauma, though, she might be able to defeat the Demon King and maybe, just maybe, she can find a home for herself.
[The Beginning] [<=Chapter 217] [Chapter Index and Blurb] [Chapter 219 June 11 or see the next chapter now on Patreon]
The Fractured Song Index
Discord Channel Just let me know when you arrive in the server that you’re a Patreon so you can access your special channel.
***
Ginger makes an offer to Lakadara. The rest of Telkandra's remaining brood discuss the fate of their allies.
“Not good?” Sara asked as Helias strode into the tent and made his way straight to the bottle of wine.
“Not good,” Helias muttered.
Sara nodded woodenly. “Privacy spell?
The tauroll waved his sheathed Fangroar and after pouring himself and his wife a drink, sat down. “We’re safe. Oh Galena, this is really not good.”
“How dead are we?” Sara asked, her tone light.
“We’re not dead. We’re just in a lot of danger and even if we somehow force the humans to retreat, we’ve lost this war,” said Helias.
“Explain.”
Helias drank deep, noting that Sara was also drinking deep as well. “Thorgoth is going after the humans. That part of the plan is as good as it gets. We’ll be attacking them, and using the dragons, whilst our forces hold off Titania. Our objectives are also well-chosen.” Helias buried his head into his hands and let out a deep groan. “But winning this doesn’t change anything.”
“If we can defeat the humans, why won’t that change anything?” Sara bit her lip. “Unless it renders us unable to beat Titania?”
“Yes. Even on the chance we beat the humans we won’t be able to invade them, we won’t be able to defeat Titania. We’d be at a stalemate and both armies would have to withdraw.” His hands dropping to the table, Helias stared at his wife. “And we don’t have any reserves left. We’re going to lose the war, even if Thorgoth lives.”
“If we defeat the humans—”
The general shook his head. “By defeat, I mean we’ll hurt them but we can’t prevent them from withdrawing. We might kill a few of their leaders, their important mages and Otherworlders, but they will still have soldiers. After coming so close, they won’t surrender. They’ll keep attacking until they kill enough of Thorgoth and Berengaria’s supporters that nobody will help them, or until both of them die.”
“Alright so, what do we do?” Sara asked. Helias looked at his wife, noting how still she sat. Her wings were clamped tight to her back and her lips were drawn tight.
“Sara, I don’t have good answers.”
Sara steepled her trembling fingers as best she could. “They’re going to be better than mine. I don’t know anything about war.”
“Right. Well, you need to surrender to the humans if you are captured. Present yourself as a non-combatant. Cry, scream, anything to declare that you don’t mean any harm,” Helias said.
“Why not Titania?” Sara asked.
“She has every incentive to kill you off and far less compunction about doing so. Killing our family off would allow her to have more land to give away to her loyalists. In contrast, the humans have Erlenberg troops fighting with them along with those of the Lightning Battalion. They’re going to be far more friendly to Alavari civilians,” Helias said.
Soft hands, grabbed onto Helias’s waist with a surprisingly firm grip. “What about you? I can get away, but how are you going to survive this?”
“I don’t know. I—”
“Don’t you dare! Our daughter needs her father and I need my husband!”
The general stared at his wife. “Sara, I can’t surrender to the humans if we win. They want me dead.”
Sara refilled Helias’s glass. “Then you need to help Thorgoth defeat them.”
“Then what? We’re never winning this war. Thorgoth is going to be invaded and—”
Cutting him off with the clink of her goblet against the table, Sara hissed, “And what? Why think that far? We can plan for that after this battle, so long as you are still here and with me.”
Letting out a breath Helias pushed his hair back and allowed himself a sigh. Reaching across the table, he took his wife’s hand.
“Sara, you’re right, but you know you can escape this if Thorgoth is defeated.”
The harorc placed her other hand on top of his. “We’re partners. I need you. We need you. So promise me that you’ll do your damndest to live.”
Helias closed his eyes and nodded. “I promise. First things first, before we turn in we need to talk to the dragons.”
***
Fennokra stalked slowly toward the camp. This wasn’t the collapsed side-passage where she and Yolandra had some privacy. This was the main camp where Thorgoth and their army were preparing for what had to be the final battle.
It was also where her siblings were swallowing the last of what seemed to be a side of salted pork.
“Velkandra, Makentra, we need to talk.”
Their second-eldest sister licked her lips, her neck rising to Fennokra’s level. “I am assuming you mean in private?”
“Of course.” Fennokra could see Velkandra’s haunches tensing to raise herself higher. Her sister was trying to look down on her. Allowing her head to dip, she held her height.
“Alright.” Velkandra flicked her tail and Makentra, licking his lips, followed them.
Since their enemies had set up their siege camp behind them, the Alavari camp had been reduced in size. Still, there was the alcove of the collapsed tunnel. Whilst couriers and soldiers crossed across this natural cavern to the defenses on the other side, they kept a good distance away.
Yolandra was waiting for them, scratching something into the cave wall. Fennokra let out a rumble in her throat and her sister turned from the wall suddenly, shaking her head.
“Velkandra, Mankentra—”
Velkandra puffed a cloud of smoke out. “What’s this all about?” she hissed, lips drawn back to show teeth.
Fennokra took a step away from her sister to take Yolandra’s side, her eyes narrowed. “Are you joking? Do you not think we should at least discuss what is going on?”
“And what would be the point? It is a bit late to be having this discussion. The course of the winds have been chosen,” said Velkandra.
Yolandra rose to her full height on her four legs, but even so she was still shorter than the silent Makendra. “The winds can be fickle, Velkandra, and where we are is proof.”
Velkandra pursed her lips, eyes for the first time, looking toward the ground. “The survival of our family is tied to that of Thorgoth. To abandon him would be death by the hand of the Stormcaller and her allies or by his hand.”
“Besides, if we were to abandon Thorgoth’s cause, that would be dishonorable. We promised to assist him,” said Makendra.
Fennokra blinked at her brother’s tone. It was quiet and yet there was a touch of a deep growl to his voice. His claws were ever so slightly digging into the ground.
“We are dragons. We can think and make decisions for ourselves. We are allowed to consider other options, are we not?” Fennokra asked.
Velkandra’s tail flicked violently side to side as her neck turned to her younger sibling. “Then why does it sound as if you wish to follow in the wingbeats of our elder sister?”
“Who we killed. I was there. I lost a claw striking her down!” Fennokra raised one clawed hand, flexing the remaining digits.
“On that, why did we have to kill Lakadara?”
All golden eyes fixed on Yolandra, who held the gaze of her siblings with a contemptuous scowl.
“Lakadara betrayed us,” said Velkandra, almost growling.
“I’ve been thinking over what happened. Lakadara said nothing about betraying our mother. She merely was questioning if Thorgoth was trustworthy,” Yolandra said.
A scowl flaring his nostrils, Makentra growled. “He fed us, trained us in how the humans and their allies fought. Hid us from their eyes—”
“And now Caldra is dead!” Yolandra exclaimed.
“Which is why we must kill the Stormcaller and her friends! So we can avenge him and our mother!” Velkandra almost completely unfurled her wings. Only the tips slapping the stone forced her to pull them back.
“Then what?” Yolandra asked.
Velkandra frowned. “Then what? We’d have our revenge—”
Yolandra’s tail cracked against the ground. “Then what? You all must have heard of what Thorgoth is capable of. What he’s done to others.”
Makentra rolled his eyes. “Sara’s story is just a story. She might have been just trying to turn you.”
“She was honest and she is not the only tale I’ve heard. You must have heard rumors of what Thorgoth did to his own son, Teutobal,” said Fennokra.
“Propaganda,” Velkandra hissed through her gritted teeth, while smoke wafted through the gaps. “In any case, we have no other option. We fight or we die.”
Fennokra, her claws grinding against the floor, had had enough.
“Velkandra, Makentra, have you ever considered that Thorgoth is perhaps using us for his own goals? We have not even considered what he might do to us after we’ve destroyed the humans and their allies. How do we know the Stormcaller and her allies might treat us better? Besides in the first place, she never intended to kill our mother—”
Fennokra blinked. She was flying backwards, something hard was bearing her into the wall. Dizzy as if struck by one of the Stormcaller’s spells, she realized that the force was the foreclaws of her elder sister. Mad rage lit those golden eyes that were the exact same shade as hers. Horrified, Fennokra tried to throw Velkandra off, but her sister was larger and heavier than her.
“Say that again. I dare you to say that again—ARGH!”
Velkandra rolled off, forced off of Fennokra by the Yolandra shoving into her side. As the elder dragon recovered, the smallest of Telkandra’s brood hissed, “It’s the truth! You are a fool to deny it!”
An ugly sneer on her lips, wings quivering with fury, Velkandra snorted. “The truth? Oh right so we are speaking the truth then. Well here’s the truth. Our kind is doomed!”
Makentra blinked. “Sister?”
“Of course Thorgoth is going to get rid of us or try to after this campaign. He has to, but right now he needs us and that’s what we need to rely on until we gain more strength. Of course, whether he wins or the Stormcaller’s allies win, how can we expect to survive in a world dominated by these lesser species hm? How could they ever not see us as a threat?”
Velkandra stalked toward the wide-eyed Fennokra and Yoandra. Her head turned side to side as she fixed her sisters with wild wide eyes.
“Well? Tell me Fennokra. Speak the truth Yolandra. Or are you both too afraid to admit that our kind are doomed and the only thing is to live as long as we can and hopefully avenge those that hurt us as we do so.”
“You’d have us fly to our deaths?” Makentra asked.
The stammering voice brought Velkandra around. Extending a wing, she touched its tip to her brother’s. “I would at least have us fly together.”
Fennokra shook her head. “We’d knowingly fly with a murderer of children and someone who would want to kill us after we’ve stopped being helpful to him.”
“And we have no other options,” said Makentra. Letting out a breath, he rose to his claws and walked away. “I’ll see you tomorrow, sisters.”
Velkandra, without another word, turned for the exit. “You know it’s true, Fennokra, Yolandra.”
Fennokra closed her eyes. Yolandra, though, narrowed hers. “Doesn’t change that Lakadra’s blood is on our claws.”
Velkandra flinched and left. She strode away so quickly she nearly stepped on Helias and Sara as they came to the cave. She gave the pair no acknowledgement other than a growl.
“See you tomorrow, General,” said Makentra, his tone curt. “We will talk to King Thorgoth ourselves for the plan’s details.”
“Of course,” said Helias. He bowed as the pair left before turning to Yolandra and Fennokra. “I believe we missed something important?”
“Be honest, General Helias. Even if we succeed tomorrow, your king has no use for us after we help him kill the Stormcaller, am I correct?” Fennokra asked.
Sara and Helias didn’t say anything. Their slight move to stand closer so they could hold hands was enough.
“I thought so,” said Fennokra. She let out a sigh and glanced at Yolandra, who nodded. “We will be on the battlefield tomorrow. Where are we going?”
“You’re going with me. We’re attacking the forces sallying from Kairon-Aoun. The plan is that you dragons breathe flame over their army to soften them before we attack.
“Understood. Any questions Fennokra?” Yolandra asked.
Fennokra shook her head. What could be asked anyway?”
Yolandra flashed the pair a joyless smile. “For what it is worth, you two have been good caretakers to us. Even if it was to preserve your own lives.”
Helias didn’t bow. Instead he extended a hand. Yolandra stared at him, but Fennokra, recognizing the gesture, extended a single talon.
“May you always be able to see the sun.” At the dragon’s blink, Helias smiled. “It’s an Alavari saying. It may come from when we used to be enslaved by the Goblin Empire. It means good luck.”
Yolandra nodded and Fennokra found herself smiling.
“Our mother taught us a saying as well. May you never fly alone. I wish that for you both,” said Fennokra.
“Thank you,” said Sara in a quiet voice. She curtsied and the two dragons dipped their heads. They watched Helias and Sara leave with placid smiles.
Then, when nobody was looking, they turned from the entrance to hide their bulks as best they could. The gloomy light of the alcove their only curtain of privacy.
***
Frances slowed slightly as they approached Lakadara’s enclosure. However, Ginger did not slow down.
“Hold on, Ginger, what’s the plan?” Frances asked.
Adjusting her new crown mid-stride, Ginger said, “I’ll show you. I’m certain it’ll work, though.”
Frances’ eyebrows rose. “Is that crown getting to your head already?”
The new Queen of Erisdale flashed a slightly nervous grin over her shoulder. “Yes actually, but I think that’s a good thing in some way. Don’t you?”
Frances found herself nodding. It was strange to see her friend even more confident than usual and so comfortable in the regal crown that she wore atop of a standard Lightning Battalion light blue uniform. Yet she rather enjoyed the new gait that Ginger had.
“I do.” Frances smirked. “Your Majesty.”
Ginger rolled her eyes. “Fuck you.”
Giggling, Frances stopped herself as they drew even closer to Lakadara. The dragon was drawing herself up, placing her massive foreclaws over each other.
“Lakadara. I am Ginger, the new Queen of Erisdale. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”
The dragon coughed, blowing out a puff of smoke. “Greetings Ginger, Queen of Erisdale. I’m sorry for your predecessor’s demise.” Lakadara’s golden eyes narrowed. “Why are you here?”
Ginger dipped her head. “Thank you and as to why I’m here. I have a proposition. If you accept it, I will grant you and your kin, the domain of the Erisdalian mountains marked by the Kwent River Valley, Freeburg and Athelda-Aoun as your home in perpetuity, so long as you do not attack humans unless in self-defense.”
“I am unfamiliar with human geography. From the Stormcaller’s expression, I assume that is a lot.”
Frances swallowed and closed her mouth, but she didn’t question her friend. Ginger, still smiling slyly, nudged her. “It is. Frances, can you lend me a hand here?”
Nodding, Frances closed her eyes and imagined a rough map of Erisdale and its territories. With a wave of Ivy’s Sting she created an image of Erisdale, highlighting in red the expanse of the mountains that bordered Alavaria and Erisdale. The area that Ginger had described sketched a rough red triangle between the three points. It was a fairly sizeable area with a low and Alavari human population.
“My husband is in negotiations with Queen Titania and I’ll have to talk to Frances and Prince Timur, but we are quite certain that Athelda-Aoun will also be included in this area,” Ginger said.
Lakadara’s golden eyes were flickering as she examined the land. Suddenly, she turned, long neck arching toward the Erisdalian Queen. “And what must I do? Fight on your kingdom’s behalf?”
Ginger shook her head. “No.”
“No?”
“Nope. If you would like to do so we can renegotiate the agreement, but my husband and I fully intend to grant you this land.”
The dragon’s tail lifted up as her eyes narrowed. “Explain yourself and the favor you seek. This is far too generous.”
“Let me explain myself first. If what I’m told by my experts is correct, you can lay eggs by yourself without a mate, but it takes time right? A few decades?”
“Yes. Still, that doesn’t explain—”
“Here me out. This war is going to end. We may lose, but if we win, banishing you to the north is making you Queen Titania’s problem and she’ll have more than enough problems to deal with. You might just end up coming south again and we know how that ended. I’d prefer to avoid that so that means we need to make an agreement. You need a new home and I need peace for Erisdale. If the kingdom has to give up some poor agricultural land then I’m all for it.”
The dragon nodded. “I see, but why so much land? Why not just give me a cave? Or request my service as Thorgoth did?”
“And how will you eat? Hunt? Where will your grown children go? I’m making an agreement that will last for decades, not just a few years. As for service? I was tempted, but you wouldn’t agree to that anyway and why should you? We haven’t given you any reason to agree.” Ginger gave Frances a wave to dispel the map. “Maybe in the future we can work something out, especially if the dragon population increases. Your service in return for more food, but again, I want to start us off on the right path, not the left path.”
“Left path?” Lakadara asked.
“Erisdalian expression. It means the wrong path,” Frances said helpfully.
Lakadara nodded slowly. “You still ask for a boon, though.”
Ginger nodded. “Yes. I want you to speak to your siblings. Before the upcoming battle starts, tell them of my deal with you. So long as they choose to accept that deal and defect, then I will have it so our forces will not hurt them. After that, you may leave. I will not request you to fight with us.”
“You want me to show myself to Thorgoth? To the siblings that tried to kill me?” Lakadara asked, mouth agape.
Ginger stepped closer to the dragon, who lifted her head away from the queen. “I want you to save your siblings. I want you to save yourself from becoming the last purple dragon in existence. I would rather you not be alone, stewing in hatred for my kingdom and our allies who brought down your family, even if we had just cause. I want peace. What do you want?”
“How do I know I can trust you?” The dragon suddenly grimaced. “Ah, right, you want a lasting peace. You have every reason to want peace.”
Ginger, arms crossed tapped her foot. Frances could see how stiff her friend was, but the action was also comforting. That her magic-less friend had such control over the situation, despite being faced with the dragon was rather…badass.
Letting out a puff of smoke that slowly drifted into the cavern, the dragon pondered the queen’s proposal. Frances held her breath and yet the dragon remained silent, only her tail moving from side to side.
Ginger waited, still content to wait for the dragon’s answer. Frances couldn’t. The tension coiled in her chest, waiting to explode.
“Lakadara, what do you want for your future?” Frances asked.
The dragon glanced at Frances, golden eyes wide. She turned back to Ginger, who continued to stand tall, awaiting Lakadara’s answer patiently.
“I accept your offer, and your promise for the future,” said Lakadara, dipping her head.
“We are glad that you wish the same as we do,” said Ginger. She extended her hand and Lakadara, took her claw and put the tip of it on the queen’s palm.
*Author’s Note: Queenly Ginger was really neat to write 😀 *

Are you looking for a leadership position? Do you like to be involved in STEM outreach or robotics-related hardware/software*? Then, we're looking for you!*
SHARK! Robotics is looking for ambitious individuals ages 13-18 to be a part of our team. REQUIREMENTS AND MORE INFORMATION BELOW!
Who is SHARK! Robotics? SHARK! Robotics is a community robotics team based in Plano, Texas. We participate in FIRST Tech Challenge which challenges teams of 2-15 to program and design a robot to a predetermined game. Additionally, teams are expected to complete STEM-related community outreach. We have qualified to Regionals every year with having been a State Alternate in 2023. We can provide a collaborate platform to nurture STEM and business-aspiring leaders.
What kind of leadership positions do we have available? *Please remember that no position is paid. These positions serve as leadership opportunities for young individuals.* We have hardware, software, and business/community outreach positions available!
Hardware Positions:

• Designer & Builder - Design original robots using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) softwares such as OnShape. Build these robots using industry-level materials.

Software Positions:

• Programmer - Program our robots using FTC Java, machine learning algorithms, and convolutional neural networks (CNN).

Outreach Positions:

• Event Planner - Plan STEM-related outreach events at both the local and international level.
• Graphic Designer & Social Media Manager - Manage our social media and photography. Design aesthetic flyers and posts.
• Corporate Sponsorship and Partnership Advisor - Oversee and direct our sponsorship strategy.

For more information, please visit this document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AAvKozdsj22LOIRK6cAopZyvWTQDfHsJBzlxEPynvXI/edit?usp=sharing
REQUIREMENTS! - MUST BE MET

1. Applicants must be based in the DFW area.
2. Applicants must be at least in the seventh grade.
3. Applicants MUST fill out the official application form before May 31st: https://forms.gle/Ak3atEYmehcM1gV57

Applicants should expect to dedicate at least two hours to SHARK! Robotics each week and attend weekly meetings. For more information, please email [ftcsharkrobotics@gmail.com](mailto:ftcsharkrobotics@gmail.com)

True Name: Sakamoto Ryouma
Class: Lancer
Source: Historical fact
Region: Japan
Gender: Male
Alignment: True Neutral
Height: 178 cm
Weight: 72 kg
Character Creator: Keikenchi
Character Design: pako
Character Voice: Kase Yasuyuki & Horie Yui
Appearance in Main Works: Fate/Grand Order

Strength: B	Endurance: C	Agility: B+
Magic: C	Luck: A-	Noble Phantasm: EX

Class Skills

Magic Resistance: C+
When Super Oryou gets serious, Oryou's hide prove quite the magical barrier, Ryouma!
Riding: EX
A special Riding Skill given to Ryouma for crossing the Bakumatsu period Japan riding the dragon that is the changing eras. It's a Skill exclusive for riding Oryou, existing separately from other Riding variants.

Personal Skills

Dragon of the Restoration: A
The man called a mystical dragon in a human body. His fleeting life briming of pride, crossing the Bakumatsu period Japan riding the dragon that is the changing eras solely for the sake of the people, was like a soaring dragon.
White Serpent of Takachiho: A-
The serpent who failed to become a dragon. The serpent, initially a black abomination held in contempt, aimed for the heavens in attempt to become a dragon, but ultimately, the serpent couldn't manage it.
Amanosakahoko (Pair): B
The pike of light fallen handle-first from heaven. The spear of the heavenly gods, which sewn together heaven and earth to seal the black abomination. Originally a single polearm, but taking the form of pair when weilded by the hero and the serpent.
The pike of light fallen handle-first from heaven is both a blessing and a curse.

Noble Phantasm

Ryuu yo, Wadatsumi no Hara wo Yuke (My dear, venture through the vast oceans)

Rank: EX	Type: Anti-Army Noble Phantasm
Range: 2-70	Max. Targets: 700 persons

By offering the Amanosakahoko that Ryouma pointed at the heavens, the black serpent sheds her skin and grows wings, becoming a white serpent of such beauty that she could be mistaken for a divine dragon.
Clad in radiant-white arcanity from the Age of Gods, the White Serpent of Takachiho exerts tremendous power. This form possesses physical abilities beyond comprehension and can deploy a sturdy physical barrier, preventing any mediocre attack from hurting her, potentially making her the god of the new era.
Instead of becoming a dragon and soaring the skies, she chose to be the serpent travelling the sea with the hero.
Pronouns (Ryouma)

• First person: Boku/washi (in Tosa Dialect Mode)
• Second person: Kimi/oman (in Tosa Dialect Mode)
• Third person: Kare/kanojo
• Master: Master

Pronouns (Oryou-san)

• First person: Oryou-san
• Second person: Omae/name without honorifics
• Third person: Koitsu/are
• Master: Ningen/omae

Personality

Pretty much the same as a Rider. Oryou hasn't changed either.

Motives and attitude toward the Master

He wishes for his relationship with his Master to be like that between two friends from the same town. Oryou is relatively fond of them and doesn't mind helping out every now and then.

Dialogue examples

• Ryouma: "Let's get washing them all away, then." Oryou: "I'll scrub them hard."
• Oryou: "Yaaay. Oryou-san turbo peace."
• Ryouma: "Oh? Time for the Kaientai to go all out?" Oryou: "Right... Ryuu yo, Wadatsumi no Hara wo Yuke"
• Oryou: "Done. Time for Oryou's victory peace. You do it too, Ryouma." Ryouma: "L-like this?" Ryouma & Oryou: "Yaaay!"
• Oryou: "I am the White Serpent of Takachiho. For thy offerings, some frogs would be welcomed." Ryouma: "Hahaha, you can't keep a solemn face either, Oryou."
• Oryou: "Fine, I can let Izou ride the tip of my tail." Ryouma: "Make sure not to drop him."
• Oryou: "Now that you're a Lancer with no divinity, we can kick that Archer's butt. Good job, Ryouma. We're having frogs for dinner tonight." Ryouma: "I wish it were that easy."

Historical character and figure

A loyalist living through Japan's Bakumatsu. Born from a country samurai family in Tosa, he deserted his fief, studied under Katsu Kaishu, founded the Kameyama Shachuu (which would later become the Kaientai), intermediated the Satsuma-Choushuu Alliance, and devoted himself to the restoration of imperial rule, overall contributing a lot to the Meiji Restoration. However, his ideals fell to assailant's blade, thus he never got to see the age of Meiji.

Character in Fate/Grand Order

An aloof man on his mid-20s appearance-wise. He may be a master of the Hokushin Ittouryuu, but he’s actually a kindhearted guy who dislikes conflict to his very core. Instead, the mysterious belle by his side will take the lead.
His default Class is Rider, but circumstances lead to this manifestation of him as a Lancer.
This form, in possessing of the Amanosakahoko and one of the Three Knight Classes of the Holy Grail War, is a what-if possibility that Sakamoto Ryouma could have attained, and a Servant powerful enough to uphold the reputation of Hero of the Restoration.
If Sakamoto Ryouma is summoned as Heroic Spirit, he's restricted to only getting either the polearm or the serpent as a Noble Phantasm. That goes to show how much of miracle it is that he is capable of using both.
He is a master of the Hokushin Ittouryuu and his swordsmanship is a force to be reckoned with, but the course he practiced was for the naginata, so the Lancer class is where he can best put his prowess to work. In addition, Super Oryou is bursting with power. Together, they're an invincible Kaientai.

Regular weapons

• Ryouma: Amanosakahoko (because he snapped it in two, he has the ability to split it into two spears). Super Ryouma Gun (can switch into Sniper Mode). "And dontcha forget mah Mutsu-no-Kami Yoshiyuki¹".
• Oryou: Hyper Power-Up Oryou Martial Arts and easily spammable beams of something unknown.

Related characters

Okada Izou
His best friend in their town. He wanted to stay best friends but their relationship never recovered from their split. After an incident where he got punched, they managed to return to their nostalgic ways.
Takechi Hanpeita
Former fellows who split off due to ideological differences. Takechi holds Ryouma in such regard that he believes Ryouma's presence would have spared the Tosa Imperialist Party from its failures. After an incident where they got punched, they managed to return to their previous ways.
Tanaka Shinbei
Takechi's right-hand man. In life, Shinbei kept Ryouma away from Takechi. He was probably annoyed at the faith Takechi had in Ryouma.
Nakaoka Shintarou
"It wounds me to disagree with Nakaoka in a discussion. Nonetheless, if I can't discuss with him, there is no one else worth discussing with."²
While Ryouma was frequently suspected, he was trusted by everyone. He and Ryouma compensated for what the other lacked.
Takasugi Shinsaku
They share mutual respect, with Ryouma acknowledging Takasugi as The Unicorn Prodigy and Takasugi acknowledging Ryouma as the Dragon Soaring the Skies. They also envy each other, believing one has what the other lacks.
Voyager
Ryouma can't hide his excitement about a rocket that can fly to space. Oryou gets competitive and begins an irregular training regime to fly to space.

Comments from the illustrator

Have a nice triiiiiiiip!!! Feels great to see those two having fun. I can hope they don't break any property or any debt-ridden alcoholic anywhere they go, but I know that's not a realistic expectation. (pako)

Translation notes

1) Sakamoto Ryouma's favorite katana. The same he uses in his Rider version.
2) Historical from the real Sakamoto Ryouma.

To start, here is my background: I went to public school in Alabama and attended Vanderbilt, engineering school, from 2011 to 2016 (I was a 5th year because I'm a fuck up). I was the first, and as far as I know the only person, from my school admitted during my tenure at Vandy. I was arrested, and subsequently suspended, spring of my sophomore year on 5 felony drug charges. I beat the charges (I was guilty af) and came back fall 3rd year fully committed to my education.
I am now 31, the head of my department, and am comfortably in the 6 figures.
My advice:

• Do not lose yourself in your new found freedom; partying, alcohol, and drugs are alluring but they will not benefit you long run. Be smart.
  
• Following on the last point, do enjoy yourself. You'll only experience this period in your life once.
  
• Learn how study. I coasted through high-school and never learned how to study. This was a major growing pain.
  
• Do your assigned readings. You will fail if you do not do the reading. Classes simply introduce a topic and it is on you to actually learn and understand the material.
  
• Do not be afraid of asking questions
  
• Do not cram or rush things Do things the day they are assigned if possible. At least the readings.
  
• Schedule your time. You are in school to set a foundation for your career. Treat it as an 8 houday job and commit yourself to your education, you're paying for it. Treat it is your full time job and you will be okay. It's all about time management.
  
• Plan ahead
  
• Forge relationships with both your professors and classmates, they will be invaluable both in school and after. You do not have to be Greek to make lasting connections.
  
• Join that organization/rec sport. Whether it be a social or academic org, take the leap and do it. If you don't like it, at least you tried.
  
• Take advantage of resources; it is not a mark of shame to attend office hours or the free tutoring sessions
  
• Enjoy yourself and take time to reflect on who you are. You are young, you are growing. You do not have to have it figured out immediately.
  
• Absolutely under no circumstances try to cheat. You will be caught. I vividly remember walking out of a physics lab to hit the bathroom and seeing a professor rip into a student that, from what I overheard, the prof had caught cheating on a quiz. You will be expelled first offense.
  
• Do not compare yourself to others. Comparison is the thief of joy. Everyone has a different path through life. Success is defined on an individual basis. I have friends making 7 figure salaries that lead a life I would never want. Your path is your own
  

I'm sure there's more I could add, but that's what I got at the moment.

Are you looking for a leadership position? Do you like to be involved in STEM outreach or robotics-related hardware/software? Then, we're looking for you!
SHARK! Robotics is looking for ambitious individuals ages 13-18 to be a part of our team. REQUIREMENTS AND MORE INFORMATION BELOW!
Who is SHARK! Robotics? SHARK! Robotics is a community robotics team based in Plano, Texas. We participate in FIRST Tech Challenge which challenges teams of 2-15 to program and design a robot to a predetermined game. Additionally, teams are expected to complete STEM-related community outreach. We have qualified to Regionals every year with having been a State Alternate in 2023. We can provide a collaborate platform to nurture STEM and business-aspiring leaders.
What kind of leadership positions do we have available? *Please remember that no position is paid. These positions serve as leadership opportunities for young individuals.* We have hardware, software, and business/community outreach positions available!
Hardware Positions:

• Designer & Builder - Design original robots using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) softwares such as OnShape. Build these robots using industry-level materials.

Software Positions:

• Programmer - Program our robots using FTC Java, machine learning algorithms, and convolutional neural networks (CNN).

Outreach Positions:

• Event Planner - Plan STEM-related outreach events at both the local and international level.
• Graphic Designer & Social Media Manager - Manage our social media and photography. Design aesthetic flyers and posts.
• Corporate Sponsorship and Partnership Advisor - Oversee and direct our sponsorship strategy.

For more information, please visit this document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AAvKozdsj22LOIRK6cAopZyvWTQDfHsJBzlxEPynvXI/edit?usp=sharing
REQUIREMENTS! - MUST BE MET

1. Applicants must be based in the DFW area.
2. Applicants must be at least in the seventh grade.
3. Applicants MUST fill out the official application form before May 31st: https://forms.gle/Ak3atEYmehcM1gV57

Applicants should expect to dedicate at least two hours to SHARK! Robotics each week and attend weekly meetings. For more information, please email [ftcsharkrobotics@gmail.com](mailto:ftcsharkrobotics@gmail.com)

I work as a Nutrition Specialist for a well-known Nutrition company that owns many brands. I was a nutritionist for one of their smaller brands that they acquired, but then transitioned to work for the company and support ALL of their brands.
My job responsibilities have been all over the place, but has significantly increased in responsibility since I now support cross-function major brands. However, my salary reflects what it was when I worked for the smaller company.
Due to a reorganization, I am being moved to Marketing Operations, which adds more responsibility to my plate, greater time-sensitive project management tasks, and more pressure in general. I know this is a really good opportunity, especially because it will give me experience. But I am struggling with feeling defeated because I just learned that they are not increasing my pay…again. It doesn’t make sense to me. Am I overreacting to this?

Basically my job is phasing out all part time workers and will only keep them if they apply to be full time and do the whole process again. Not sure if this is the right place to go to ask.
Around 2 weeks ago I spoke to my manager that I have to work “part time” like hours but I was brought it full-time and he worked with me. I didn’t sign nothing nor was I given a notice of the change of my employment. Today I learned on my off day that they are phasing out part time workers, if I never had any documentation signed or presented to me stating I am part time,not sure if that’s necessary, by law am i protected from being let go? If I do get let go am I eligible for unemployment?
I would gladly elaborate more if needed on my situation to anyone, I am genuinely confused.

Repost from the grad admission,
Exactly what the title says. I finished my undergraduate degree in December with a BS in Natural Resources, concentrating in wildlife. I'm taking a gap year before returning next year, but I'm hesitant about applying for a master's program. My GPA is 2.9, which isn't the ideal 3.0. However, I have been successful in research, participating in summer research experiences for three consecutive summers (a field technician job and two REUs).
Academics have been challenging for me due to my learning disability and mental health issues, which I only received help for in my final semester, too late to significantly improve my GPA. If I had known about accommodations earlier, I believe I would have performed better. I entered my bachelor's program with an associate's degree straight out of high school, which felt rushed because my initial scholarship covered only two years. Fortunately, I received additional financial aid.
As a first-generation Latina interested and passionate in the field of wildlife, wanting to pursue a master's degree feels daunting and isolating. Ultimately, I aim to earn a PhD, but I want to start with a master's degree. Although I don't have any publications yet, I am working on one from a completed research project with my PI. I have presented my work at national conferences and symposiums and have conducted extensive undergraduate research.
I am passionate about wildlife biology, marine biology, and ecology, specifically in conservation and management. However, I don't have the funds for a master's program and am unsure where to apply or seek guidance. Any advice on schools or faculty who could guide me in this field would be greatly appreciated. Any insight of my situation too would be great. I want to know as I’m taking this gap year, how should I make a use of my time as I await hearing back from technician jobs and ultimately wait for a rejection since that’s how it’s been. However, thanks!

I want to spend 3 nights in Hanle but it seems like there is no public transport or shared cabs that go there (from Leh). Getting a car all for myself would be extremely costly (upwards of 30k if I'm not wrong for 3 nights and 4 days, maybe even more) and I cannot afford that.
I want to be in Hanle for the Perseid meteor showers on 11, 12, 13 August. Is there any way to manage this more efficiently? Bike? I have never ridden a bike but can learn easily. That's the only way I could think of.
I'm going to be doing a high altitude trek in Kashmir before so AMS shouldn't be an issue as I would be well acclimatized.
Any suggestions?

I recently graduated college with a diploma in computer science (heavily web focused). I've been working for about a year now and ended up getting laid off. Looking to try my hand at freelance web design. I know how to make websites pretty well in a number of different ways (ie. plain HTML/CSS/JS, React, Wordpress and Hugo). I also have backend experience.
So I know the basics, my questions are more focused on how to deliver to the client, how to charge them, how to manage domains/hosting, legal questions etc.
Let me know if this is the wrong place to ask.
I only know a lot of web dev companies do marketing/graphic design as well, I am not as experienced in this area (ie. logo design for example), should I outsource this work or is it worth learning it myself? Or should I just not offer it?
How should I make my websites (ie. CMS, plain HTML/CSS, SSG, etc.)? Is it better to focus on one of these or offer different options based on what the client wants? I've heard some people swear by plain HTML/CSS while others go full on CMS and use Wordpress themes.
How do I manage domains and hosting? I was thinking of just hosting on AWS S3 or a free hosting service. Is it better to let the client chose hosting/domains or should I buy them on their behalf, or just let them choose?
I'm thinking of having different tiers for development, ie. Basic (1-5 pages) , Intermediate (10+ pages, blog) and Advanced (e-commerce etc.) As for pricing I reckon 1500-2500 for basic, 3-4k intermediate and 5k+ for advanced. (all in CAD btw)
To start getting clients is cold calling and printing posters out a good idea? Or Instagram/facebook ads?
Any other recommendations for hosting/domains/tech stacks?
Thank you very much, any advice is appreciated!

Exactly what the title says. I finished my undergraduate degree in December with a BS in Natural Resources, concentrating in wildlife. I'm taking a gap year before returning next year, but I'm hesitant about applying for a master's program. My GPA is 2.9, which isn't the ideal 3.0. However, I have been successful in research, participating in summer research experiences for three consecutive summers (a field technician job and two REUs).
Academics have been challenging for me due to my learning disability and mental health issues, which I only received help for in my final semester, too late to significantly improve my GPA. If I had known about accommodations earlier, I believe I would have performed better. I entered my bachelor's program with an associate's degree straight out of high school, which felt rushed because my initial scholarship covered only two years. Fortunately, I received additional financial aid.
As a first-generation Latina interested and passionate in the field of wildlife, wanting to pursue a master's degree feels daunting and isolating. Ultimately, I aim to earn a PhD, but I want to start with a master's degree. Although I don't have any publications yet, I am working on one from a completed research project with my PI. I have presented my work at national conferences and symposiums and have conducted extensive undergraduate research.
I am passionate about wildlife biology, marine biology, and ecology, specifically in conservation and management. However, I don't have the funds for a master's program and am unsure where to apply or seek guidance. Any advice on schools or faculty who could guide me in this field would be greatly appreciated. Any insight of my situation too would be great. I want to know as I’m taking this gap year, how should I make a use of my time as I await hearing back from technician jobs and ultimately wait for a rejection since that’s how it’s been. However, thanks!

She’s autistic(only relevant in the case that I have to manage her diabetes and diet for her) She was diagnosed with Type 1 at around mid teen years, so far I’ve been managing the past week but I’d like to know what I can do to help her the most. She has a huge taste for junk food and an appetite to match mine(it’s a big one). She gets really upset when she can’t eat things she enjoys.
I’ve found low carb and low sugar foods which she really enjoys, quest pizza is a big one but obviously she can’t have it every day and some super low carb cereal, but I want to keep her her diet healthy but as unrestricted as possible, with maybe snacks between meals.
Any advice or suggestions for me as I learn on this journey of caring for my sister? My over all goal is to give her more freedom in choosing meals or snacks. Life has not been easy or kind, eating is more of a comfort for her I think so any and all help is welcome. Thank you for your time guys and gals!

How do y’all manage your finances and budgeting? I’m in the process of trying to move out from living with my folks and it all seems a bit overwhelming at times.
For reference, I run my own small business so I have to track business metrics for that (which I do), worry about taxes, business expenses, fluctuations in revenue, I do a ton of continuing education to better serve my clients, but constantly worry about losing all my clients.
I also am trying my best to learn about investing and saving for retirement. As a business owner I have to do it all myself since I don’t get a 401k or anything.
When it comes to personal finances, I’m trying to make a very detailed spreadsheet where every dollar is allocated to an expense or savings subcategory.
It all feels overwhelming and like life is so damn expensive that I’ll go broke in a few months after moving out.
Anyone have any tips, recommendations or guidance? Or atleast willing to share what they do or what has helped them?

Just want to give a really big shout out to ABQ1 and their leadership there! Yall are the biggest, most fake bunch of pricks I’ve ever had the privilege of working with! A site that has nothing by favoritism and gross double standards, yall should be ashamed!
Steven Shoemaker, I hope you hate who you wake up to be in the morning! You’re two faced, and genuinely one of the worst people I’ve had the privilege of working with!
Gino Hernandez, you’re a sick pervert who never left the younger girls alone! You deserve to have lost your job!
Delijlah, you’re a child who has nothing better to do but bitch and complain about why things don’t go the way you want them to when you’re the problem
Evie, Stanley, and the learning team, thank you guys for everything. I genuinely would not have been able to have an enjoyable career with the company if it wasn’t for you!
Mihil, the only senior ops that pretended to care. You’re a good guy but the level of backstabbing you go through is absolutely wild
Same applies to you James. You are the worst of the bunch.
And Miss Cyndia Gallegos. You’re the biggest bitch I’ve met. From lying about other managers to pulling every EO card out of the book because you were not happy with your life. You should’ve been terminated when you admitted to fucking a PA to promote. You’re a sad woman, and your kids deserve someone so much better than you.
AFE, Singles, and P2R team, while most of yall were great, there were a large handful of you that deserved to lose your jobs. I’m not even sorry for saying that.