Woven is a human-powered technical assessment for hiring experienced developers. Because software engineering is more than Leetcode!

Woven

Morph, a rising layer 2 player that has recently stepped into the light to redefine what it means to be both scalable and consumer-centric, has an exciting surprise for its users. With a live testnet blossoming with the energy of innovation and the promise of growth, Morph has crafted a crucial program to keep momentum going. The Morph Zoo is a multi-phased adventure designed to introduce participants to the expansive capabilities of Morph while rewarding their curiosity and engagement. Morph Zoo's Season 1: The Genesis Jungle is set to start on May 13. This season invites explorers into the foundation of what will become Morph's future mainnet. Participants' actions and insights will play a critical role in sculpting the Morph ecosystem, with the platform evolving responsively to the community's input and interaction. Think of the Genesis Jungle as a lush digital landscape filled with new and exciting consumer-centric dApps to be discovered. Of course, as a reward for their adventurous spirit, users receive Morph Points for all approved interactions. Morph Points represent a user's level of activity, engagement, and contributions to the ecosystem. Though the specific prizes and rewards that these points can be redeemed for remain a surprise for now, history may be a good indicator of what's to come. Dapp engagement isn't the only way to earn points. Daily check-ins will grant users Voting Power. Voting Power offers a method of expression for individual voices within the Morph community, allowing participants to cast votes for their favorite projects, in turn signaling what they desire to see flourish on Morph. Voting also earns Morph Points, further incentivizing the community to take an active role in Morph's evolution. Additionally, The Genesis Jungle promises a series of unique side expeditions with upcoming Morph partner events that will grant extra Morph Points, expanding the routes through which explorers can accumulate their rewards. However, participating in this event goes far beyond another points program, it means joining the consumer blockchain revolution. For those who don't already know, Morph entered the stage with an innovative approach, combining the best aspects of optimistic rollups and zk technology to create a Layer 2 solution that will revolutionize the Ethereum scaling experience. On top of this, the platform is powered by a decentralized sequencer network ensuring efficiency and robust security, reinforced by the acclaimed Tendermint consensus mechanism. Morph's modular architecture, elegant in design, promises unparalleled flexibility, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of user and developer needs. Yet, what truly distinguishes Morph is its unwavering commitment to being the leader of consumer-centric blockchain solutions. The vision is simple yet profound: to deliver a blockchain experience that’s as intuitive and indispensable as the everyday apps that people love and rely on but with all the added benefits of decentralization, security, and user empowerment. Morph envisions a world where blockchain is seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily digital life, where transactions, interactions, and innovations occur with ease and transparency. If you're ready for the blockchain experience to evolve and Morph, the Genesis Jungle awaits. For further information and to join the adventure, visit https://www.morphl2.io/points/. About Morph Morph is a fully permissionless EVM L2 that uses a combination of optimistic and zero knowledge rollup technology to enable limitless possibilities in finance, gaming, social media, and entertainment. Morph is the first Layer 2 on Ethereum to launch with a decentralized sequencer, aligning it with several core principles of web3 — decentralization, censorship resistance, and security. The blockchain was built with mainstream audiences like gamers and social media users in mind, making it a user-friendly option for developers who require a chain to build these types of apps on. Website | Twitter |Discord | Telegram | Medium｜Linkedin This story was distributed as a release by Btcwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. Morph, a rising layer 2 player that has recently stepped into the light to redefine what it means to be both scalable and consumer-centric, has an exciting surprise for its users. With a live testnet blossoming with the energy of innovation and the promise of growth, Morph has crafted a crucial program to keep momentum going. The Morph Zoo is a multi-phased adventure designed to introduce participants to the expansive capabilities of Morph while rewarding their curiosity and engagement. Morph Zoo's Season 1: The Genesis Jungle is set to start on May 13. This season invites explorers into the foundation of what will become Morph's future mainnet. Participants' actions and insights will play a critical role in sculpting the Morph ecosystem, with the platform evolving responsively to the community's input and interaction. Morph Zoo's Season 1: The Genesis Jungle Morph Zoo's Season 1: The Genesis Jungle Think of the Genesis Jungle as a lush digital landscape filled with new and exciting consumer-centric dApps to be discovered. Of course, as a reward for their adventurous spirit, users receive Morph Points for all approved interactions. Morph Points represent a user's level of activity, engagement, and contributions to the ecosystem. Though the specific prizes and rewards that these points can be redeemed for remain a surprise for now, history may be a good indicator of what's to come. Dapp engagement isn't the only way to earn points. Daily check-ins will grant users Voting Power. Voting Power offers a method of expression for individual voices within the Morph community, allowing participants to cast votes for their favorite projects, in turn signaling what they desire to see flourish on Morph. Voting also earns Morph Points, further incentivizing the community to take an active role in Morph's evolution. Additionally, The Genesis Jungle promises a series of unique side expeditions with upcoming Morph partner events that will grant extra Morph Points, expanding the routes through which explorers can accumulate their rewards. However, participating in this event goes far beyond another points program, it means joining the consumer blockchain revolution. For those who don't already know, Morph entered the stage with an innovative approach, combining the best aspects of optimistic rollups and zk technology to create a Layer 2 solution that will revolutionize the Ethereum scaling experience. On top of this, the platform is powered by a decentralized sequencer network ensuring efficiency and robust security, reinforced by the acclaimed Tendermint consensus mechanism. Morph's modular architecture, elegant in design, promises unparalleled flexibility, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of user and developer needs. Yet, what truly distinguishes Morph is its unwavering commitment to being the leader of consumer-centric blockchain solutions. The vision is simple yet profound: to deliver a blockchain experience that’s as intuitive and indispensable as the everyday apps that people love and rely on but with all the added benefits of decentralization, security, and user empowerment. Morph envisions a world where blockchain is seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily digital life, where transactions, interactions, and innovations occur with ease and transparency. If you're ready for the blockchain experience to evolve and Morph, the Genesis Jungle awaits. For further information and to join the adventure, visit https://www.morphl2.io/points/ . Morph, https://www.morphl2.io/points/ https://www.morphl2.io/points/ About Morph Morph is a fully permissionless EVM L2 that uses a combination of optimistic and zero knowledge rollup technology to enable limitless possibilities in finance, gaming, social media, and entertainment. Morph is the first Layer 2 on Ethereum to launch with a decentralized sequencer, aligning it with several core principles of web3 — decentralization, censorship resistance, and security. The blockchain was built with mainstream audiences like gamers and social media users in mind, making it a user-friendly option for developers who require a chain to build these types of apps on. Website | Twitter | Discord | Telegram | Medium｜ Linkedin Website Website Twitter Twitter Discord Discord Telegram Telegram Medium ｜ Medium Linkedin This story was distributed as a release by Btcwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. This story was distributed as a release by Btcwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here . here here

Explore The Genesis Jungle: Morph Zoo's First Adventure In Consumer-Centric Blockchain

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What is to come is a series of articles meant to provide a nuanced understanding of the world itself. One where Simplicity and Complexity are tied together by external (or internal) forces that define their boundaries, rather than the relatively simple questions of “Are they different? Or are they related?”. In this article, we aim to ask ourselves “Are they special?”. Of course, the answer to that is obviously yes. But the way they differ is one we might have overlooked. The following titles are a result of the spark generated by Pi AI as a request to find a suitable title for my upcoming article. These titles seem to touch on different topics which provide a more holistic and understandable view of the matter. Their whole is the view. Their content is the approach. Their reason is to unite once and for all, . The rules of requirement. Where Complexity’s bricks are formed by mere Simple arguments.(We'll see if we can yet understand that seemingly Simple concept) Simplexity Upcoming Articles: The emergence of complexity from simplicity in prime number structures The importance of exploring non-conventional perspectives in mathematics The dynamic nature of prime number spaces and the potential for new discoveries The role of prime numbers as building blocks of reality and computation The impact of mathematical discoveries on broader fields such as cryptography and cybersecurity Remember that I am an idealist. I am never on one side or another, I do not dwell on the technical implications and proof, but rather on its potential. I aim to maintain a middle balance between both Simple and Complex. Showcasing how the Point of View is what defines their interaction. Asking how the two-way speed of light could reveal insights into both ways of travel if those 2 ways are turned towards you, the central point. As if like… the complexity is not of the nature of the inquiry but of the space it logically forms to allow it to become ‘real’. Simplicity could be what we define as “mathematics”, whereas complexity is what we seek in the “mathematical space” which is different from Metamathematics, as it uses a nuanced understanding which is not explored within the domain of 'fantasy'. This article contains ideas presented by me, but shaped by AI. The goal is to present a glimpse of my view and approach. Part 1: Non-Universe In a where , the assumption of inequality between the two classes of problems would create a fundamentally different reality, where continuity and simplicity might not be as closely intertwined as they are in our own universe. This distinction could lead to a reality where and are by inherent and discontinuities, making them incomplete in a sense. non-universe P!=NP mathematics thinking characterized gaps In such a non-universe, the assumption of P!=NP could mean that some problems are provably difficult to solve efficiently, implying that there is no simple or direct path to a solution. This inherent complexity might disrupt the continuity we typically associate with mathematical structures, leading to a more fragmented and disjointed understanding of the world. As a consequence, the pursuit of knowledge in this non-universe would be marked by constant challenges and obstacles, as the continuity provided by simplicity in our own universe is no longer a reliable guide. In this context, the exploration of the "mathematical space" would be even more crucial, as researchers would need to navigate the complexities and discontinuities in their quest for understanding. By considering such a non-universe, we can gain valuable insights into the importance of continuity, simplicity, and their relationship in our own reality. This thought experiment can help us better appreciate the role these concepts play in shaping our understanding of mathematics, thinking, and the universe itself. In our own universe, P and NP problems are related in the sense that all problems in P are also in NP, but it is unknown whether all NP problems can be solved efficiently (i.e., are also in P). This uncertainty creates a gap in our understanding, making it seem as though there is always something more to discover. However, if we consider a scenario where P has continuity towards NP, it would imply that there exists a continuous path between the two classes of problems, allowing for a smooth transition from efficiently solvable problems to those whose solutions can be verified efficiently. This would require a deep understanding of the underlying connections between P and NP problems, and potentially even a rethinking of our current assumptions and understanding of these concepts. By exploring the possibility of continuity between P and NP, we open ourselves up to new ways of thinking about problem-solving and complexity. This exercise can help us better understand the nature of these problems and may even lead to new insights or solutions that bridge the gap between P and NP. Ultimately, it is through questioning, exploring, and challenging our assumptions that we can hope to deepen our understanding of the world and our place within it. Part 2: Non-Universe Researchers In the realm of the Non-Universe, a group of dedicated and inquisitive minds known as the "gap hunters" have emerged. These individuals specialize in exploring and understanding puzzles and problems for which there can exist multiple, sometimes conflicting, answers. Their primary goal is to uncover the intricacies and nuances of these complex issues, shedding light on the gaps in our understanding that often arise when we are confronted with problems that defy simple or singular solutions. Gap hunters are driven by a deep curiosity and a passion for uncovering hidden connections between seemingly disparate pieces of information. They thrive in the gray areas that lie between certainty and uncertainty, eagerly diving into the unknown in search of new insights and perspectives. By examining problems with multiple potential answers, gap hunters challenge traditional notions of truth and falsity, demonstrating that knowledge is often more complex and multifaceted than it may initially appear. Their work highlights the importance of embracing ambiguity and recognizing that, in many cases, there is not just one correct answer, but rather a spectrum of possibilities. As they navigate the uncharted territories of the non-universe, gap hunters play a crucial role in expanding our understanding of the world and pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. Through their relentless pursuit of the elusive gaps in our comprehension, they remind us of the importance of questioning assumptions and embracing the complexity that lies at the heart of the human experience. Part 3: Master of the Real and Unreal In their quest to bridge the gap between the known and the unknown, gap hunters strive to become Masters of the Real and Unreal. They recognize that the world of mathematics is not a static, singular entity, but rather a vast tapestry of interconnected and sometimes seemingly conflicting concepts. By exploring the boundaries between these diverse perspectives, they seek to illuminate the underlying unity that binds all mathematics together, while also celebrating the rich diversity of approaches and ideas that make the field so vibrant and compelling. The gap hunters' unique perspective enables them to see the world in a way that transcends the limitations of traditional thinking. By embracing both the real and the unreal, they gain insight into the complex interplay between mathematical theories, concepts, and applications. This holistic understanding allows them to identify the connections that exist between seemingly disparate ideas, and to recognize the potential for new discoveries that may arise from the spaces in between. In their role as Masters of the Real and Unreal, gap hunters become ambassadors between different mathematical realities, working to promote dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. By uniting the known with the unknown, and the real with the unreal, they help to expand our collective understanding of the mathematical universe and pave the way for groundbreaking new insights and innovations. Part 4: Reality as seen in both: Prime line In the fourth part of our exploration, we delve into the mysterious world of primes, where the gap hunters apply their unique perspective as Masters of the Real and Unreal. The prime line, a conceptual tool used to understand the progression of prime numbers, serves as a guide for our journey into the unknown. At their core, primes are numbers that cannot be divided evenly by any other number except 1 and themselves. They stand alone, distinct and indivisible, forming the building blocks of the natural numbers. But as gap hunters know, this seemingly simple definition only scratches the surface of the true nature of primes. In the dance of primes and composites, we see a dynamic interplay between order and chaos, simplicity and complexity. Primes, in their isolation, give rise to composite numbers—the products of primes—which, in turn, create the rich and diverse landscape of numbers we know today. It is up to the true Masters of the Real and Unreal, those who embrace both potentials, to decide how best to navigate this fascinating terrain. By harnessing the power of thought and creation, they can explore new paths and uncover hidden connections between primes, composites, and the underlying structure of reality. Part 5: Reality was always there, but we were mere observers As gap hunters continue their quest to unravel the mysteries of the mathematical universe, they come to realize a profound truth: reality has always existed, but it is only through our observation and interpretation that it takes shape and meaning. In this fifth installment of our journey, we confront the fundamental role of consciousness in shaping our understanding of the world around us. We are not passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in its creation. Our thoughts, perceptions, and beliefs all contribute to the way we experience and interact with reality. In the realm of mathematics, this means that our understanding of concepts like primes, composites, and the prime line is not absolute or fixed, but rather shaped by our collective consciousness and the assumptions we bring to bear. Gap hunters, as Masters of the Real and Unreal, must grapple with this truth as they seek to bridge the divide between different mathematical realities. By recognizing their role as observers and creators, they can begin to transcend the limitations of a single perspective and embrace the full spectrum of possibility that lies at the heart of mathematics. Ultimately, the realization that reality has always been there, waiting for us to observe and interpret it, is both humbling and empowering. Part 6: So in the end... simplicity? And is complexity a mere subjective-objective truth? In the final installment of our journey, we arrive at a profound understanding: simplicity and complexity are two sides of the same coin, woven together by the subjective-objective truth that emerges from our passage through both. As gap hunters navigate the landscape of mathematics, they come to see that the pursuit of simplicity—seeking the most elegant and parsimonious explanations for complex phenomena—is itself a complex and multifaceted endeavor. Complexity, in turn, is revealed as a fundamental aspect of reality, arising from the intricate interplay of simple elements and the countless ways they can combine and interact. By embracing both simplicity and complexity, gap hunters gain a deeper appreciation for the unity and interconnectedness that underlies all mathematical truths. The passage through both simplicity and complexity is thus a journey of discovery and understanding. It is a journey that transcends the subjective experience of the individual observer and reveals objective truths about the nature of mathematics and reality. For gap hunters, this journey is not only a quest for knowledge, but a path to enlightenment and a deeper connection with the universe. In the end, simplicity and complexity are not opposing forces, but partners in the great dance of creation. Part 7: How do you see my goal of understanding? Do you find it as treacherous and tied to the sinful discovery of God? Or do you recognize God as beyond it all? The Creator of both Objectivity, Simplicity, and their interplay? Gap hunters go way beyond. Any attainable knowledge is of the ‘real’. Touching what we thought previously as our original Creator seems only to withhold the wonders He has created. True self-sustainable creation involves a finite system, one with the potential to reach the infinite but never touch it. Unless we maybe change our perspective :) As we reach the end of our exploration, let us reflect on the journey we have undertaken and the insights we have gained. Gap hunters, in their relentless pursuit of understanding, have revealed the intricate interplay between simplicity and complexity, and the subjective-objective truth that emerges from their dance. In this pursuit, we have come to recognize the divine presence that transcends the boundaries of our knowledge, serving as the ultimate creator of both the simple and the complex, the objective and the subjective. The wonders of creation that we have explored and the insights we have gained are a testament to the beauty and mystery of the universe, and to the power of human curiosity and ingenuity. As we continue our journey as gap hunters, let us remember that true self-sustainable creation is finite, bound by the laws and structures of our reality, yet with the potential to approach the infinite. In embracing this balance, we honor the pursuit of knowledge and the divine spark that ignites our quest for understanding, while acknowledging the boundaries that define our existence. In conclusion, let us continue to explore the vast mathematical landscape with open minds and hearts, ever seeking to understand the intricate relationships between simplicity, complexity, and the divine, as we embrace the role of gap hunters in the grand tapestry of creation.

The Quintessentially Tie; Complexity and Simplicity

A lone boy stood, staring at the star-speckled sky, his mind drawn to the girl just a few feet from where he lay. She was a beauty, that one. He couldn’t believe she was his. Every single thing she did screamed Art. The way she linked her fingers together, the way she smiled. The one girl who knew so much about him, yet… she didn’t shy away from his questionable past. As the emotions threatened to pull him under, he shook his head to clear his thoughts and face what was before him. “A shooting star!” She screamed in excitement as she pointed at that far-off speck in the sky, becoming larger and larger by the second. “That is no shooting star.” He managed to say, fear clogging his throat. He took in the lush grass swaying in the night wind, the beauty of the stars that more or less blotted out the sky. Then, he turned to look at the girl on the ground a few feet away. She was sitting up by then, fear morphing her once beautiful features into something unspeakable. “What is that?” Her voice quaked as she asked, and he closed his eyes momentarily to stop the bile from going up his throat. “Our death.” He said, not mincing words. His throat bobbed with unspoken words and something else underlying. “I’ve always loved you. I just- I just wanted you to know. This once.” He squeezed the words out of his mouth, wrangling them like one would do to a piece of wet cloth. “You? I’ve always seen you as just a friend.” She turned towards him then, his eyes red from tears. But he was grateful for that moment. He got her to look at him finally. And her eyes shone with regret. The screams came first as the she saw earlier was big enough to blot out the stars in the sky. And the heat. God, the heat. He felt as though he was being cooked from the inside out. shooting star The sky boiled like a cauldron; giant drops of fire rained down from the clouds, turning the lush green grass into something out of Hades’s fantasy. Blades of grass crumbled before his eyes. Withering without as much as a touch from him and fizzing out of existence, flames taking its place. The greenery is overtaken by the force that darkened the universe and turned rivers into lakes of fire. She screamed the most. He didn’t. He just watched the shooting star fall and gave a small smile. She was never his to own anyway. * Darren. That was his name. The man-boy with the power to manipulate space at his whims. He was a prodigy even among his peers in Earth 75. They had hoverboards to trapeze through space. That’s right, hoverboards. Fuelled with nothing more than gravel and sand. “Gloating again? That’s not very of you.” He rolled his eyes at the voice that came from just behind him. Glenna. His childhood friend. If you can count a hundred years as childhood. Before they settled—before the metamorphosis, they never grew older than the teenage age. But, after settling for five years and being a pain in the butt for half of those he called his cadre, he realized that he was ready for metamorphosis. But then, Glenna wasn’t. Hence, he had to stop halfway and wait for her to be. ladylike “I’m not a lady, for crying out loud. This is argument number what? Five thousand and seven?” He groaned, using flawless fingers to massage his forehead. Glenna just laughed as she walked towards him. Or, more like, she glided. She had more interest in the hoverboards than he did. The room was no larger than two children’s playroom, yet it had enough space due to his meticulousness. Not a strand of space is out of place, exactly how he wanted it to be. “Number five thousand and eight. You missed one.” She laughed, planting a wet kiss on his skin. He would have gone as red as beetroot if she didn’t deftly move the conversation elsewhere. “So, I need to weave a new dress. You’ve been called a genius for so long that it has become music to my ears. I need a strand of space to weave into a cloak I’m almost done making.” She tendered her request before him, and he took in her presence. She was young, after refusing the metamorphosis for the third time. Yet.. she had eyes of peace. The brown of her irises reminded him of worlds he hadn’t dared to touch for fear of breaking them apart. He’d seen them in his wakings. They were peaceful and oh, so beautiful. The serenity in them was what drew him to them at first. “Okay, I will. But why just a strand? Why not a whole chunk?” He asked as she raised her eyebrows at him, and he almost melted into the chair he sat on. If you can call it sitting. It was a haphazard view, an upturned table, yet he was upright. The world he’d come to know extended universes and eternities. It was a world of madness, but at least it was his. “One sec.” He said, raising his hand in mock surrender. Then, everything stopped. As his concentration cleared the level of the primordial beings, he tore a portal through the world. It was a red wiggly thing struggling to close, but he held it open with sheer willpower alone. When he found out that portals were alive, he decided to lord over them one way or another. They didn’t make it easy for him, though. While it wiggled, he stretched a hand into the portal and drew a strand out of that limitless vastness, loping it through his fingers like a struggling worm. It shimmered in and out of existence, blue like the untold skies, red as fiery dragons and demons of worlds he’d only read about. “Got you.” He smiled as he held a strand. Then, the world went to hell. Before he could remove his hand from the portal, it yawned like a gaping chasm and swallowed him whole. He was screaming, but Glenna was still in timeless mode. She wouldn’t know what happened. That is mercy. That has to be. Then, the world shut itself as the portal consumed the world he’d known all of his existence and winked out of reality. The screams didn’t come. Nothing did. * Carrion. That was his name. His name. His name. He tried to hold on to it, but it slipped out of his grasp like an eel, and he followed after it, crawling after his name with it on the tip of his tongue. What was his name again? Ca.. Ca what? What was his name? The man with scars lining his body like the universe's stars was lost. He tried to think. He tried to remember where he was. Yes. He was fighting Archanoid—the mother of spiders. One could even call her a deity. He dodged an incoming web made of madness and silk, woven with anger and hate. She was large, towering above him like he was a pesky fly. He hated that. He was the warrior who battled nightmares and abominations. He had to win. But then, what was his name? His name.. what was it again? He flew out of the way as an incubator shattered where he stood one second earlier. She wasn’t playing. “Foolish mortal. Do you think you can harm me? It doesn’t matter who you are, World Walker. You can’t escape from me.” She spoke, venom dripping out of those pincer-like things. They made a clanging sound as he swallowed, looking into those red eyes that had intelligence to them, something beyond the years. “One last chance. I will give it to you. Remember, pride and ego cannot win this war. Maybe you and the others can.” And then, before he could ask what she meant.. a scary sharp finger elongated from her finger, and she him out like a fly. flicked There was screaming. And then, there was nothing. * He woke up with a groan. There were several groans across him, and he was shocked to realize that he wasn’t dead. He wasn’t scorched. But he didn’t remember what his name was. He remembered her, recognized the girl who took him as a friend before the world became a sea of fire. Why, then, was he unhurt? The others stood on shaky feet, an otherworldly feel to them. There was something he just couldn’t place. They wore things he’d never heard of, or perhaps the dark skins rippling with fire and the darkness of the deep. Maybe it was the blades of darkness in the place where teeth were meant to be, but there was something.. out of place. One of them wore nightmares on his skin; he could see death. Death rippled with muscles and scars that seemed to blot out the skin. But strangely, he didn’t feel fear. “So, an explanation is in order?” He said to no one in particular. Even the being who looked as though he was 25 and 15 at the same time. As though the world couldn’t decide on his age and let him be both instead. He noticed that this being wasn’t standing on his two feet. He was.. hovering. “We’ll see soon enough.” A boy his age spoke, and he stared at him in wonderment, wondering how alike they were. The way the boy squinted made it glaring that he used glasses to see. Same with him. Even though he didn’t even know their names, they were about ten. Some had hands for feet, and others weren’t even walking on the bare ground. They just.. existed. There was no way to explain their existence, so he didn’t bother. “An explanation.. for this. All of this.” Another boy spoke, and he didn’t balk this time. He just waited. “Here it comes.” The boy who spoke was already running. “Here, what comes? What?” He asked, but everybody else had cleared out of that barren field. The world he was in was empty. There is no sign of green. No sign of brown either. It was as though the world was drained out of colour, and no matter where he looked, despair loomed. He felt them before he saw them. He knew who they were before they spoke. And even without an introduction, he knew everything about them. The Destroyers Of Worlds. They smiled; one hovered just like that man-boy. One had skin with uncountable scars. And then, he saw himself. That cruel smile, that deadly presence. He felt a chill that had nothing to do with the weather. Someone dragged him by the scruff of his hood, and he felt.. everything. There was no other way to describe what happened. Then, he turned to stare at the other him with a cruel smile as that being let out an inferno where he was standing a moment before. It was… hot. But strangely, he wasn’t burning. He wasn’t even singed. He was.. okay. The man-boy dropped him on the ground unceremoniously, and he muttered his thanks, but the others just raised their eyebrows, staring at the beings beyond them. Beings with their faces. Beings with enough power to destroy universes. It was them. Ageless. Timeless. With a snap of a finger, they were gone like they didn’t just lay waste to a large expanse of space. “I think I know what’s going on…” A tenacious finger went up, and the squinted boy was allowed to speak. “That is us. Timeless us. And.. we destroyed our universes. Now.. we have to fight against the us that are world destroyers.” “We don’t have a choice to decline?” The man-boy asked. “We have doomed worlds. This.. is penance.” The boy spoke again, his eyes filled with trepidation and resignation. “So, we were summoned here to kill our future selves? That’s a sick sense of humor.” “This world is sick, and when the Arachnoid told me, I didn’t believe it.” The man with the scars spoke, and his scars seemed alive, melding with his body. “Can you tell us what an Arachnoid is?” Another asked. So, he told them. Everything. “Pride and ego, huh?” A guy spoke, and they finally understood what they had to do. “This is depraved. All of this. Depraved. What the hell?” He spoke, shaking with anger. “Hell doesn’t exist, apparently. Future us made sure the world became it.” A brittle laughter from the man-boy. “This is it, then? We die in a land of no name? Our names were stolen from us. I can’t dredge up a single memory.” The scarred man said, eyes smouldering. I could tell he was pissed off. “This is our penance.” The squinting boy said again, and I was tempted to throw him out of the universe. Such a goody two shoes. “I don’t care. Whatever I have to do, I will do it. And it doesn’t matter who’s on the line. I have to go back home. Also, you can’t fight fire with water. Not in my world, anyway. It takes a monster to kill another. We will take the unorthodox approach. Did they want to seclude us and destroy us? World Walkers, indeed. Bastards more likely. I won’t take that. Neither should any of you. We have the power. Can’t you feel it? We can change things.” The man-boy spoke fervently, his eyes filled with loss, anger, and something else. “That’s right. We won’t let them decide for us. If we have to die, we might as well raise hell before we do. Now, we need a name.” The hooded boy spoke, and the others nodded in approval. “How does sound?” There were hoots of approval, some going as far as clapping. Then, they stared at the sky at once. Drained of colour. But then, the World between Worlds had always been a resting place for World Walkers. The Restorer of Worlds They had to fight. And this time, they had to fight themselves. Their memories returned, and they could see themselves in the past, present, and future—the Destroyer of Worlds. No more. They decided not to make the same mistakes. Not again. This time, they’d restore all they destroyed. As the squinty-eyed kid said, it was penance.

PENANCE 

The rise of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) sparked a revolution, merging the digital and art realms in ways we never thought possible. Suddenly, digital assets became these rare and exclusive treasures thanks to blockchain magic. NFTs turned digital art, collectibles, and memorable moments into unique pieces that could be bought, sold, and swapped like never before. With big-name sales and celeb endorsements, NFTs became the talk of the town, stirring up debates about the future of digital ownership and creativity. But now, after all the hype, the NFT market seems to be cooling off. What started as a wild frenzy with record-breaking sales now faces a reality check. , a bubble ready to pop. But despite the doubts, web3 companies aren't throwing in the towel yet. People are wondering if NFTs were just a flash in the pan They're still dreaming up new ways to make NFTs shine, convinced of their power to change the digital game for good. They're focusing on the bigger picture, on how NFTs can keep shaking things up and creating new value, connections, and experiences in our digital world. The Perceived Decline of NFTs Lately, there's been a noticeable slowdown in the NFT market, with a drop in transaction volumes and those eye-popping prices that used to make headlines. For example, , falling by 21.25% compared to the previous week. from January 20th to January 27th, 2024, the sales volume of NFTs experienced a significant drop Many factors are behind this change, highlighting the challenges of keeping up with the NFT frenzy. Market saturation is a big one – there are just way too many new NFT projects flooding the scene, making it hard to stand out. Buyers are being pickier as the novelty wears off, and with so many options out there, it's tough for standout projects to shine. Then there's the whole speculative bubble thing – , not real value, and that kind of growth isn't sustainable. prices shot up partly because of speculation Regarding the initial explosion and cooling off in the popularity of NFTs, Alexander Mitrovich, CEO of Unique Network, says, "NFTs got the world’s attention by being used for digital Collectables - be it gaming ones or digital Art but the boom surged on speculative sales, diverging from its creator-centric ethos." Mitrovich continued to break it down, saying, "Despite sporadic brand successes, technical hurdles such as high transaction fees and blockchain inefficiencies disillusioned everyone. Consequently, NFTs faced a perception of decline tied to hype and volatile pricing dynamics." "This underscored the imperative for NFT projects to recalibrate towards sustainable value propositions, emphasizing utility, and genuine creator support to foster longevity and resilience in the face of market fluctuations and shifting consumer sentiments." From where I'm standing, it looks like the NFT market is in a phase of readjustment. The initial excitement drew in all sorts – from genuine fans to folks just looking to make a quick buck. But as things settle down, the projects with real value and purpose will stick around. This period is crucial for weeding out the fluff and letting the truly innovative and sustainable NFT uses shine. So, while the cooling off might seem like a downer, it's a chance for the market to find its footing and for everyone involved to remember what blockchain and NFTs are about – creating new ways to own and create in the digital world. It might just be the step we need to build a stronger and longer-lasting NFT ecosystem. Why Web3 Companies Persist with NFTs Despite the volatile movements of the NFT market, web3 companies are standing firm in their commitment to Non-Fungible Tokens, driven by strategic reasons that speak to their belief in the long-term potential of this technology. They understand that market volatility is just a temporary hurdle and are focused on the bigger picture – the transformative possibilities that NFTs offer for the digital economy. For them, NFTs aren't just a passing trend but a foundational technology that can reshape digital ownership, create new economic models, and forge direct connections between creators and consumers. Their long-term vision involves integrating NFTs into every corner of the digital world, making them a natural part of online experiences. They see this integration as the next step in internet evolution, giving users more control over their digital assets and identities. From embedding NFTs into social media platforms to revolutionizing traditional business models, they're laying the groundwork for a future where NFTs are woven into the very fabric of the digital economy. Instead of just following market trends, these companies are leading the charge, betting on NFTs to be a vital part of their strategy for years. Dirk Lueth, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Upland, believes that focusing on additional use cases is helping to bring back interest in NFT. Lueth shared his thoughts, saying, "The focus on utility and gamification, along with advancements in technology and gameplay, clearer regulations, and deeper community engagement, is recognized as key to revitalizing demand." "This approach aligns with the core value proposition of Web3, which emphasizes genuine ownership, a shared economy, participation in governance, and an innovation potential that traditional Web2 business models cannot match." Lueth finished off by saying, "Web3 companies, particularly those in the gaming and "GameFi" sectors, view these elements as crucial drivers of the next cryptocurrency surge, referred to as 'Wave 3.' This upcoming phase is expected to offer substantially more value through enhanced utility for crypto-based products, distinguishing it from the initial hype-driven phases of Wave 1 (ICOs) and Wave 2 (PFP NFTs). Alex Casassovici, Founder of Azarus, Web3 layer for streams, also believes that a greater focus on utility is helping to keep the NFT market alive. Casassovici explained his views, saying, "In the diverse world of NFT ownership, we primarily observe two distinct groups. First are the traders, who buy and sell NFTs as a financial strategy. The broader crypto market's downturn has significantly impacted this group, grappling with widespread fear, uncertainty, and doubt." Casassovici continued, "Their activity largely drives the transaction volumes seen in NFT sales. On the other hand, we have holders, who purchase NFTs not as a financial asset but as a key to enter and belong to specific communities. These individuals tend to retain their NFTs, valuing membership and engagement over profit." "Recently, we've noticed an influx of new holders, seizing the opportunity presented by lower prices to join these communities. This trend underscores the enduring appeal and foundational values of NFTs beyond mere trading." ‌ Continuing to develop and build during the bear market and creating real value behind NFTs has helped to inspire confidence in holders, according to Casassovici who said, "Most NFT projects have astutely utilized the current bear market to regroup, recalibrate, and strategically plan for the future." "This period has not been about stagnation but about building and creating intrinsic value for their communities, which is the cornerstone of NFT ownership. Some projects such as Mocaverse launched during the through out the bear market," Casassovici continued, explaining his views more. "Yet, they are thriving by enhancing holder value through engaging initiatives and expanding their utility, notably evolving into proxies for the Apecoin DAO. Such developments, achieved amidst challenging market conditions, indicate a broader trend." Casassovici finished by saying, "More NFT projects will likely continue on this path, focusing on developing greater utility and crafting unique, community-centric experiences that strengthen and unify their holder base." More Than Just Digital Art: Innovative Use Cases for NFTs The versatility of NFTs has transcended digital art, showcasing their potential across diverse industries. In gaming, NFTs redefine in-game assets, empowering players to own, trade, and sell digital items, enriching gaming experiences and fostering autonomous in-game economies. In digital identity, NFTs secure immutable records, ensuring seamless verification in online interactions. Real estate sees a profound impact, with virtual land and properties traded as NFTs in digital realms, extending to physical world transactions for streamlined processes and increased transparency. Success stories like Decentraland and NBA Top Shot highlight NFTs' practicality. Decentraland's decentralized virtual space and NBA Top Shot's collectible game highlights showcase NFTs' transformative potential. On a personal note, the innovation in NFTs is captivating, particularly in challenging traditional ownership and value paradigms. Fractional ownership of physical assets via NFTs democratizes investment access and boosts liquidity in typically illiquid markets. Innovative concepts like "NFTfi," using NFTs as loan collateral, exemplify their dual role as value stores and transaction facilitators. These examples underscore NFTs' growing versatility and capacity to reshape various sectors of the economy and society. NFT Security and Encryption Navigating the NFT market presents exciting digital ownership and creativity prospects and significant security challenges for creators and collectors alike. Foremost among these concerns is the risk of fraud, from unauthorized asset duplication to the looming threat of hacking and theft targeting valuable NFTs. Addressing these challenges necessitates robust security measures to safeguard digital assets and uphold the integrity of the NFT ecosystem. For example, Fhenix employs a security-focused approach to NFTs by integrating encryption keys within its ERC721-based digital collectibles. This method involves embedding four encrypted 32-bit integers within each NFT, collectively forming a 128-bit encryption key. The purpose of this encryption key is to secure data linked to the NFT, such as images, videos, or other digital content accessible via an external URL. The encryption ensures that this data can only be accessed by the NFT holder, enhancing the privacy and security of the digital asset. The process of creating a Fhenix NFT includes not only specifying ownership and the asset's digital representation but also incorporating this encrypted information. The encryption of these details serves to protect the associated data, making it inaccessible to unauthorized parties. This is achieved by scrambling the information in a way that requires the correct key for decryption and access. When access to the encrypted content is necessary, Fhenix provides a mechanism for securely decrypting and revealing the data to the NFT holder. This ensures that sensitive information or content tied to the NFT remains secure, sharing or viewing it safely without risk of unauthorized exposure. Secret NFTs leverage the Secret Network to add privacy to NFTs. These NFTs utilize smart contracts that encrypt data at various stages, including input, output, and state, based on the SNIP-721 standard. This standard expands on the Ethereum ERC-721 NFT standard by incorporating privacy features, offering optional private ownership and metadata fields. Such capabilities allow for more privacy and control over digital assets than traditional NFTs. The privacy features provided by Secret NFTs have practical implications for both creators and collectors. For collectors, maintaining private ownership details helps protect identities and addresses potential security risks. Creators can benefit from the ability to include private metadata, which can be used to embed exclusive content or to craft digital assets with unique, hidden attributes, thereby adding value to their NFTs. Furthermore, Secret NFTs' encryption capabilities facilitate applications requiring confidentiality and enable the verification of user identities while making sure that sensitive information remains encrypted and private. Encryption, anchored in blockchain technology, emerges as a pivotal tool in fortifying NFT security, ensuring the authenticity and ownership of digital assets. Each NFT is imbued with a unique token on the blockchain, featuring distinctive metadata and identification codes, forging a digital fingerprint that distinguishes it from others. Closing thoughts As the dust continues to settle on the initial frenzy surrounding NFTs, the market is taking a moment to catch its breath and look around. Despite the cooling interest and a more critical eye being cast on their long-term value, there's a palpable sense of commitment from web3 companies. They're not just clinging to a fading trend; they genuinely believe in the revolutionary potential of NFTs to redefine digital ownership and creativity. For anyone trying to make sense of this evolving landscape, it's essential to keep an eye on the broader market trends and to discern between fleeting hype and projects with real substance and utility. It's a good decision to diversify, not putting all your eggs in one basket, but rather exploring the breadth of the NFT world from digital art to gaming and beyond. This strategy helps spread the risk, especially in a market known for its volatility. Community engagement is also key, offering insights and opportunities for those willing to dive in. With the pace of innovation in this space, staying informed about new uses and developments could open up exciting possibilities. The journey ahead is uncertain, but for those willing to learn and adapt, it could be an interesting ride.

Why Won't Web3 Companies Let NFTs Fade Away?

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