#and using 3d modeling to achieve this? king

[coochiequeens]

Women's history just got richer

By Mindy Weisberger, CNN

More than 1,000 years ago, carvers in what is now Denmark set their chisels to rock to etch runestones — monuments to Viking leaders naming their deeds and achievements. Two groups of runestones mention a woman named Thyra, and new analysis of the carvings suggests that the runes on both sets of stones were inscribed by the same artisan and refer to the same woman: a Viking queen of considerable power.

Researchers from Denmark and Sweden used 3D scans to analyze carvings on the runestones, finding telltale clues that marked the individual style of the person who carved them. That carver’s repeated mention of Thyra’s name — a rare occurrence for Viking-era women — suggested that Thyra was a powerful sovereign who likely played a pivotal role in the birth of the Danish realm, the scientists reported Wednesday in the journal Antiquity.

“To learn more about the rune-carver and those named on the stone is fascinating,” said Dr. Katherine Cross, a lecturer at York St. John University in the UK who researches and teaches the history of early medieval northern Europe. She was not involved in the study.

“We can only understand early medieval sources once we can think about who made them and why,” Cross told CNN in an email.

One set of runes came from a pair of monuments known as the Jelling stones, erected in the town of Jelling around 965. The larger Jelling stone is often referred to as “Denmark’s birth certificate,” as it’s the first monument to name the land as its people pivoted to Christianity, according to the National Museum of Denmark in Copenhagen.

Both Jelling runestones also named a royal figure: Queen Thyra, mother of then-reigning King Harald Bluetooth. The smaller stone was raised in her honor by her husband (and Harald’s father) King Gorm, calling her “Denmark’s strength/salvation” (or “Denmark’s adornment,” depending on the translation, the researchers noted in the study). Harald commissioned the larger stone, to honor both of his royal parents.

In another set of four Viking-era monuments, known collectively as the Bække-Læborg group, two runestones mention a woman named Thyra. Those stones are associated with a carver named Ravnunge-Tue, but experts disagreed on whether that Thyra was Harald’s mother, said lead study author Dr. Lisbeth Imer, a curator and senior researcher at the National Museum of Denmark specializing in the study of runes and ancient inscriptions.

Before the new investigation, it was unknown who had carved the Jelling stones. Confirming that their carver was Ravnunge-Tue would strengthen the connection between the Jelling and Bække-Læborg runestones, Imer told CNN in an email.

“Then it is much more reasonable to suggest that it was in fact the same Thyra,” she said.

A question of style

Some details in ancient runestones that indicate a carver’s individual style are visible to a trained expert’s eye, such as the language or the basic shape of the runes. Other details are harder to detect, Imer said.

“What you cannot see with the naked eye is the carving technique,” she said.

To get a closer look at the carvings, the researchers took scans of the stones and created 3D digital models, then measured the runes’ grooves with a software tool that weighed variables such as angle, depth and cutting rhythm. Together, these variables can create a unique profile for a carver.

“Every rune carver develops his own motor skill and holds the tools in a certain angle, strikes with a certain strength,” Imer said. “The motor skill is individual and other individuals cannot copy that.”

When the researchers compared runes from Jelling 2 (the larger of the two Jelling stones) and the Læborg stone from the Bække-Læborg group, they found striking similarities, such as height of the runes, straightness of the main staves and length and placement of rune branches.

“In the Læborg and Jelling inscriptions you can follow the cutting rhythm of Ravnunge-Tue as one deep stroke of the chisel followed by two not so deep ones: DAK, dak-dak, DAK, dak-dak,” Imer said via email. “It is ALMOST like hearing the heartbeat of a person that lived so long ago.”

Jelling 1 was more eroded, so its markings were harder to analyze. But if the Læborg runestone was Ravnunge-Tue’s handiwork, Jelling 2 was likely his as well, Imer said. It would mean that the Queen Thyra mentioned twice in the Bække-Læborg group — on Læborg and on the stone Bække 1 — was the same person commemorated on the Jelling stones, the study authors concluded.

In recent years, archaeologists have revised prior interpretations of Viking warrior burials as exclusively male, finding that Viking women were fighters, too. The new findings add to the picture of influential Viking women holding prominent roles in statecraft as well as on the battlefield.

“This research highlights how Viking-Age women wielded power through political authority and patronage, not just violence,” Cross said.

What’s more, the fact that Thyra is mentioned on four runestones offers strong evidence of her importance, Imer added. Fewer than 10 runestones in Denmark from the pre-Christian era mention women at all — and four of those are of Queen Thyra.

“Runestones in Denmark were mostly erected in honour of men, but Thyra is commemorated on more runestones than any other person in Viking Age Denmark,” Imer said. “She must have held extreme power and social position.”

Mindy Weisberger is a science writer and media producer whose work has appeared in Live Science, Scientific American and How It Works magazine.

[ordinaryschmuck]

*Sighs*...Okay, yeah, Wish really IS bad

And I didn't want to go in thinking that. I went in with the most optimistic view possible. Because with EVERYONE treating this movie as the worst thing possible, a POX upon the house of mouse itself, I went in thinking that there's no WAY it's THAT bad. So when I finally watched, I decided...I was right. It's NOT that bad. But...Well...Let's get into it.

This is the part where I'd say "Positives First," to show off what worked before picking apart what didn't. Except that, aside from a few little moments and easter eggs that made me go, "Aw, that's cute," I'm coming up EMPTY. Every single thing--And I do mean EVERY SINGLE THING in this movie, from the animation, songs, characters, story, themes, ideas, and even EXECUTIONS...is ALMOST good. Every single aspect of this film ALMOST worked. The pieces are there and I can see just how this film could have been the masterpiece that was a CENTURY in the making. The problem is that there's ONE THING holding it back: Not enough time. And I don't just mean that the movie should have been longer. No, I mean that this movie needed another YEAR of production to tighten up EVERYTHING. Why's that? Well, let's go in order of the things I mentioned.

The animation is clearly trying to go for this mixed-medium style that movies like Puss in Boots: The Last Wish or Spider-Verse popularized. Those movies mixed hand-drawn animation with 3D models, making storybook illustrations or comic book art feel ALIVE. That's sort of Wish is going for. I hear people say that Disney's 100 year celebration should have been completely hand drawn to call back to their early years, but I tend to disagree. I think Disney making a movie that's mixed-medium is a better way to honor its one hundred years, taking the animation that made Disney huge and mixing it with modern CGI as a way to make it feel like a celebration of the old AND new. EXCEPT that it doesn't really look good, aside from certain screenshots. There are SOME still images where if you paused the movie at the right time you can get something that looks like a 2D image with CG touch-ups. For the rest of the movie, it looks like a modern CGI Disney film with a storybook filter slapped on it. It doesn't look TOO BAD when your eyes get used to it, but it doesn't stop the movie from feeling like it ALMOST hit the right mark. The only times it REALLY works is with Star.

Wha--No. No, not that one. That's the wrong Disney character named Star.

There he is. There's my little guy.

But look at him. He's a 3D character with hand-drawn touch-ups that really makes him feel like a 2D character brought to life. If the whole movie looked like HIM, then it would have been a revolutionary achievement for Disney. But it doesn't. Instead, it feels like a missed opportunity that would have worked better if they had more time to animate this film instead of leaving their animators scattered to the winds to make half-assed sequels or forcing out one to two projects every year.

There should have also been more attention given to the songs because...Oh my gosh, they're bad. They SOUND nice, I love the instrumentals and the POWER these people put into the vocals. "This Wish" and its reprise successfully gives me chills through how well they're sang and how epic the instruments make them. But the LYRICS...are messy. When you sit down and actually LISTEN to what's sung, it all just...BLEH. That's the best way I can describe it, I'm sorry! It's BLEH!

Why would a king in a fairytale kingdom in the distant past sing, "You're sure you're not the prob?"

"Throwing caution into every warning sign" doesn't come across as a person freeing herself from her insane king's vague warnings but ADHERING to them.

The way that Asha and King Magnifico sing about protecting wishes makes it sound like they're singing to EACH OTHER.

And "You're A Star." OH BOY! The song that's meant to explain how these animals can magically talk is just filled with allegories and allusions that think they explain EVERYTHING only to explain NOTHING. It's just vague nonsense that, again, SOUNDS nice, but offers no real substance. On its own, I guess I can get into it, but to tell a story, it falls apart. Because that's the difference when it comes to writing a regular song and writing a musical: You're not just making a good song, you're telling a story through MUSIC. Wish's soundtrack is one that's filled with catchy songs, but not ones that properly move the story forward. Not to mention how they're so jarringly out of character in cases like "This is the Thanks I Get." When Disney released the soundtrack, that was my favorite song because I felt like it perfectly fit this smug, egotistical prick who thought he was the best person alive. Turns out that's not what Wish was going for...Not entirely.

Magnifico feels like he's meant to be a mix between Gaston and Maleficent. A character that has a huge ego and loves himself more than anything, but has an incredible amount of power to make himself a threat. If done right, a villain like that could stand up to be with some of Disney's best. And, yeah, like everything else in this movie, he ALMOST works. When he's finally a villain, he's campy and over the top, making him entertaining...But notice how I said "When he's finally a villain." That's because Magnifico doesn't really become what he's meant to be until halfway through the movie. He starts off as a King with good intentions but paranoid ideals that doesn't make him evil, it makes him feel like a guy who needed evidence to prove that other magic isn't a threat. By the time he finally acts more like a Disney villain, it was such a jarring left turn that his sudden switch-up made me feel like it was somehow a nightmare sequence from Asha. He's NOTHING like the guy he starts out as, and it's not a natural change that flows well throughout the film. That's mainly because the story has a pacing problem worse than any movie I've seen. If King Magnifico's path to the dark side was slow and gradual, showing signs of his worst qualities first and make them more apparent as the film goes on, he would have worked INCREDIBLY. Instead, it comes across as his villainy was activated like someone flipped a switch in his brain that says, "Be evil now." It's the absolute REVERSE of a bad redemption story, mixed with a lazy explanation that it was dark magic that made him more corrupt when he should have been evil since minute one. And you want to know the worst part? He's probably the best character in this.

Asha...isn't bad. She's your standard quirky nice girl protagonist that Disney just LOVES to use, especially lately. It's just that Asha doesn't have that "Gets stuff done" attitude like Moana or Mulan, nor does she have the infectious charm like Maribel or Anna. Asha, instead, is a lot like her breakout song: Nice and enjoyably, but doesn't stand out from the biggest hits. As for her animal sidekick Valentino...He's not annoying, but he's not funny either. Honestly, his comedy peaked when it was revealed that this cute baby goat sounded like Clayface from that Harley Quinn cartoon. A joke, by the way, that got spoiled by the trailers, so it's not really AS funny in the movie. Honestly, Asha's SEVEN FRIENDS are funnier at times. Speaking of, those characters are very clearly meant to be the Seven Dwarfs. And it is VERY distracting because not only does it feel like only two or three of them are necessary to the plot, but they're the ONLY major reference that the movie shines a light on when it comes to Disney's history.

Would I have wanted this entire movie to be nothing but references of past Disney movies? Of course not. That's not how movies work. But Wish seems to have this problem where it doesn't really COMMIT to honoring Disney's legacy. The most it does is give the Seven Dwarfs human OCs, make them supporting characters, and throws in tiny little easter eggs here and there. Again, some of them are cute, but it's not enough. The same goes for when Wish tries to honor some of the tropes and cliches that Disney popularized. It's an animated musical with talking animals, a campy villain, an objectively pretty protagonist, and goofy sidekicks. But it takes more than ADDING that stuff to your movie in order to honor them. You need to look at what made those tropes and cliches work in the first place and make something that calls back to those classic films while still having something new to say. And Wish almost--ALMOST--has something new to say.

With everything surrounding King Magnifico and how he got more power with people's wishes, I almost thought Wish was going to be a film that called out modern Disney. At least, modern CORPORATE Disney, a company that takes ideas and thoughts created by dozens of talented people, twists them into something unrecognizable, and refuses to give those ideas back when choosing to do NOTHING with this great idea leaves them free of competition. And to stop something evil like that, you must make something of your own and work hard to make your idea yours instead of letting someone more powerful take it from you. I thought that would have been a GREAT message...But of course DISNEY wouldn't want a movie calling them OUT for their one hundred year victory lap. So, instead, we have a message that tries to get the same idea across, but in a simplified way where the wishes are taken LITERALLY and that the only way to get what you want is to wish hard enough for it. That is...NOT the message I want kids to learn from this as it often leads to bad expectations. If this movie tried an ironically anti-Disney message in ANY OTHER year, it would have a better chance of getting away with it. But for a hundred year celebration, there was no chance in hell.

Wish is NOT Disney's worst movie, but it's nowhere near the best. I love SO MANY of the ideas and what it TRIES to do, but there's a difference between good ideas and good executions. It was ALMOST good, but Wish was not the movie anybody was really wishing for...

[coconox]

whb QoLs that i would like to see

boredom post lol, just dumping my thoughts into the void of what id like to see be added in whb but probably will never happen 🫠

1. separation of character and artifact banners

pretty self-explanatory. w the roster being huge and it only increasing from here there needs to be a distinction btwn characters and artifacts. im sure many ppl atp have gotten tired of the false hope they get when they get the gold glow from one of the kings at the beginning only to find out that its just one of his sig 💀💀

1.1 for patches w 2 l-rank debuts, have the selector work even before you hit pity

i get having the selector for if you reach hard pity, but its a bit greedy for it to apply only when you wasted so many seals (esp when f2ps dont get as much seals as they should). i would like the chance of knowing im guaranteed that char from the beginning even when i get the char early

1.2 if there exists an artifact banner, let there be a selector for which one you want to pull for

same logic as prev points. the rosters getting huge and ideally id like to have smth guaranteed for when i do my pulls

2. update characters' skill descriptions to be more specific

theres too many "[dmg/healing] is proportional to [some stat]." i want to see what that actual proportion is, like "dmg is proportional to x% of stat" where x is some number. or in skill menus theres "increase passive effect" like just tell me what youre specifically increasing in the passive !!!! i shouldnt need to actually lvl the passive to figure out whats changing, it should be stated from the get-go

3. have someone at the very least proofread the text

now i've seen my fair share of typos in games, hell, i literally play one where they couldnt even spell their own game name properly during the earlier yrs of its release lol *cough pgr cough*, but for the most part theyve resolved that issue and simple typos are easily spotted and fixed, but ive never seen there be this many typos or language switches mid-sentence. literally just 1 thorough proofread couldve easily solved most of these grammatical issues.

4. better optimization

im sorry but this is getting to like hoyo lvls of optimization w the fact that whb, which just hit half anni a month ago, is getting close to the amnt of storage an almost 3 yr old game has is wild to me (completely disregarding the fact that pgr has 3d models, l2d cgs, etc). imo, the amnt of storage whb holds should be around or even lower than what neural cloud has (which mind you, also has 3d models and l2d art 😭😭)

incoming very weird comparison but vanilla minecraft, a game that gets regularly updated, both on pc and pe take less than 1 gb

literally improving the optimization would make the game more accessible i.e. get more players to play since it wont take up a lot of storage !!! as someone who used to have 64gb or less on my phone, i could barely play any games on it bc nowadays they unnecessarily take up so much storage

5. add more daily/weekly tasks

keep the 9 daily requirements and 32 weekly requirements the same, just give more tasks for each so that we arent strictly set on doing specific ones. id like to see more stuff like "battle any stage x amnt of times" (emphasis on any, not a specific stage) or "interact w the lobby character at least once," just really anything that doesnt involve investing in a character or artifact. i feel like im wasting resources from lvling chars i dont wanna lvl, + we dont get enough tears per week to properly invest in so many characters at once.

giving more breathing room to hit the 9 and 32 achievements would put less stress on me cause then i'll know that if i cant complete one task, i can just do another and still be able to get all the rewards obtained for the week. im sure a fair share of ppl atp have missed out on getting all the weekly rewards bc they accidentally missed 1 daily task which is painful

5.1. get rid of the lvling artifacts weekly requirement and lvling characters requirement

briefly mentioned it prev but wanted to make its own section. its useless, especially when i ald have the artifacts that i need lvled up. its a dumb requirement that makes me waste mats and pulls just so i could lvl some artifacts properly.

6. get rid of the rng boxes and make them selectors

5.2 increase the daily/weekly rewards

dailies (w pancake shop): 9 tears, 7 key boxes (rng)

weeklies: 4 tears, 5 red keys, 2 yellow keys, 50 seals

i dont think i need to explain much here thats like scraping the bottom of a barrel for important mats/gacha currency

they suck. i do not want resources to be gacha too

7. make all shops cheaper

self-explanatory. everything is too expensive (esp in red gems shop) and therefore is borderline inaccessible unless if you hoard mats or 💳

7.1 add the ability to convert red gems to seals

red gems have very little use now ever since seals were introduced. id like them to have some important use if we keep getting a certain amnt of them every week. we can covert them to red/yellow keys, so by that logic we should also be able to convert them to seals too

8. get rid of uncommon/useless currencies

pretzels, artifact enhancement stones, and blue guilty gems are the 3 that come to mind. ik pretzels were originally supposed to be from the friends system, but that was removed a bit after launch and still hasnt showed up despite pb promising itd be launched around this time. aside from that the other 2 serve little to no use, as artifact stones dont lvl up the artifact all that much and blue gems died when seals became a thing

9. auto-clear for story stages

i mean that after getting a perfect clear on a stage, then have auto-clear be an option. since candy boxes are farmable through story, i end up falling asleep or getting bored of having to sit through fighting the same stage like 20+ times a day. this is honestly one of the more nit picky ones in this list lol, i just play the stages in the bg while i do other stuff but ideally id like to get stuff done asap

10. make lvling characters cheaper

we only get 13 tears a week from dailies + weeklies + pancake shop. assuming you start from scratch and want to get to char lvl70, it takes 3 weeks to get there without the help from other shops. thats almost a month for 1 character, it shouldnt take that long to invest in someone (it also shouldnt be that expensive 💀)

if we're getting such low numbers of essential materials per week, decrease the character lvl prices to reflect that. or alternatively, increase the number of mats we get per week to easily lvl characters

10.1 increase the character lvl cap to 100

40 tears for one level is not worth it, having the cap be 100 would make it feel like its worth it (not really tbh, its still real expensive when lvl70 provides more than enough to clear all content 💀)

10.2 add a resource stage for pies

getting pies only through shop (rng boxes btw) and events isnt enough to compensate for how much skill lvls cost. either decrease the skill lvl prices or increase the pie income to balance it out

11. have the ability to backread txt msgs before choosing a reply

self-explanatory. the game doesnt allow you to backread before choosing a reply which sucks :/

as someone who usually cant process txt after reading it once i kinda just sit at the replies like :/ girl i forgor what he just said and i cant go back and read so i'll just leave and re-enter the chatroom again ig

12. have the game automatically lock l-rank artifacts as soon as you get them

ik theres a lock feature, but you need to lock all artifacts manually. id rather the game lock l-rank artifacts for me once i get them so that i dont accidentally recycle them when cleaning out my inventory and then i manually unlock them later if i want to

13. give seals, keys, or just any sort of general gacha currency as compensation rewards

receiving only ap feels like a slap to the face, and seals/any other currency would only be given out if there was smth that was severely (and i mean very severely) hindering everyones gameplay. the ap given isnt even that much either which is like rubbing salt in the wound

14. decrease ap requirement in stages

considering stages can go up to 32ap as a req (given this is only seen in events, the usual hovers around 25 but my point still stands), you cant really do all that much if the cap hovers around 250 (give or take, i havent seen anyone w 300ap yet so 250 im considering is the avg rn for endgame players). w each stage at highest difficulty being 25-30+ap, we essentially only play like 10 stages max before needing to wait.

1 solution ppl would have in mind is to just buy the 300ap from red gems shop or buy more ap from selecting the ap counter directly to get more for the day, but i want smth thats more accessible. i shouldnt need to pay w some currency to get literally the bare necessity of being able to play this game.

i think keeping all stages at 15ap is perfect, hell, even 20 would also work since w 250ap you can get more than 10 runs in one session

15. make the battles less reliant on needing certain l-ranks

this is just smth ive noticed when testing out stages w other chars or just playing realm of seraphim lol, but theres a huge imbalance w l-ranks vs s and a+-ranks. theres also a huge imbalance when it comes to the classes too (i'll get to that in a bit)

take beel's camp for example, there is no one in beels camp that can essentially mimic or closely mimic what beel does kit-wise (dmg ik will be different cause lower ranking and all). imo, the go-to non-l-rank alternative for beel isnt even from his camp, its from belphegors !!!! (if you didnt catch on im talking abt andrealphus lol)

or take mammon for example, no one in his camp (as of making this post) deals dmg on ult, they only either shield themselves or take the hit for ppl on the team, which tends to do more harm than good.

element-wise, take juno for example. juno being an l-rank fire unit significantly changed how fire team worked, i.e., you can actually use that team to clear most story content now (minus water enemies lol). that should probably put into perspective of 1. how l-ranks are a bit too important in this game and 2. how unbalanced light as an element is compared to every other element

15.1 give us more tanks and healers

i need yall to see how crazy our current roster is

(dont mind the title of the table lol its from the spreadsheet, also for reference if ppl see this in the future this is pre-lucifer (victory))

why do we have so many close-rangers??? so many marksman????

we have such little supports (tanks + healers) that it makes me fully convinced the gameplay pb wants to achieve is full on dps and not yk a well-balanced team w dps AND support. dont get me wrong if players want to full on dps that is totally fine by me, the issue im having is that the devs appear to want a full on dps team, completely ignoring the idea of how to properly balance a game where they also introduce supports. of course there are marksman/close-rangers that can support i.e. buff the team (juno, dantalian, ronové, phenix, the list of examples goes on), but im specifically talking abt the classes in general. for the most part, marksman and close-rangers are usually dps while tanks and healers are usually support.

if youre gonna introduce supports in this game, 1. have more than just 1 tank unit for each non-light element, 2. make the healing be higher than 1% of a char's hp, 3. have an equal amnt of tanks and healers as close-rangers and marksman.

the fact that if you dont have mammon as your designated tank or lucifer as your designated healer, youre essentially screwed over is wild to me. their camps' s/a+-ranks should be able to hold just as well without their kings. satans camp is the perfect example of that. chars like minhyeok (who is quite literally mini satan kit-wise lmao), gabriel, leraye, nostalgia leraye, hell even ppyong (the a+-rank ver, not juno lol) are all perfect alternatives for if you dont have satan and that is amazing. we currently dont have that for supports and i genuinely hope thatll change in the future

—

this game is very, VERY far from being at least somewhat balanced in my eyes. i really do wish for the best w this game but man as someone who loves to dissect gameplay down to the numbers, seeing all this gets real frustrating for me from time to time.

anyw thats all for now– this was a bit of a rant more than anything lol

[itsuki-minamy]

"K - RETURN OF KINGS" (Novel)

CHAPTER 7: STILLE NACHT (SILENT NIGHT)

* List of Chapters

Translation: Naru-kun Raws: Ridia

Inside the command car, there was a heavy and superheated atmosphere.

"Entrapment 16-F, -4, -3, +6, +7, simultaneous development."

"Deployment successful, destroyed!"

"You don't have to report the destruction one by one. Send the intended route."

"Yes!"

If the combat units deployed inside Mihashira Tower were fighting using their bodies, they were fighting using their brains. Furthermore, due to the company's policy of not being able to reduce the number of combat personnel, only a small number of members remain. It wasn't a joke. Without Fushimi's support, they would have overcome the siege long ago, allowing them to invade the "Slate".

But, no matter how few resources they have, they cannot give up.

Not for justice or cause, but for their own pride.

"Forecasted routes are out! Route 1-G and Route 6-S."

"Are you already on Route S?! Leave this floor! Deploy all traps simultaneously!"

"Got it! Simultaneous deployment of all traps!"

While typing quickly, Fushimi shifted his gaze to the side. That is the floor plan of Mihashira Tower displayed on the monitor using 3D modeling. The top 30% of them are blue and the bottom 70% are green.

"The enemy's invasion rate is 70%. This delay strategy is about to reach its limit."

"It's progressing much faster than planned..."

"Yes. Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna. Their actions are simple and based on brute force; that's how confident they are in their individual abilities. Tsk, they're just playing with us."

Two points of light move on the 3D map of Mihashira Tower while being interrupted. To avoid interference or eavesdropping from "Jungle", the electronic network was limited to use inside the command car. It was based on the judgment that information leaks could be minimized by using it in conjunction with the power grid, but there was never any interference from "Jungle".

Fushimi seems to be the only one trying to control this battlefield. The enemy side has no strategy or anything. They just show's up and messes it up. Fushimi's job is to prevent it, delay it and, if possible, eliminate it. It's like using a piece called a combatant to deal with a rising tsunami.

Sweat ran down Fushimi's cheeks.

"...In other words, it's all my job."

It was cold sweat. The pressure that the victory or defeat of this battle rests entirely on his shoulders. What forces should be distributed where, whether or not predetermined operational objectives can be achieved, and how compensation will be provided if they cannot be achieved.

If it fails, then...

"Route S has been violated!"

Hearing Enomoto's voice, Fushimi thought for a while, and then in a solemn voice said:

"Go to Phase 2."

"Eh?!"

Enomoto takes a deep breath. He explained to her what the sign meant. Enomoto, who has the second highest information processing ability after Fushimi, should be asked to act as an assistant, but unfortunately, he doesn't have the psychological ability to oversee the entire operation.

"But, is it 30 minutes earlier than expected?!"

"It's already unexpected! If we don't deal with Mishakuji now, we won't be able to deal with it in the future. It's a waste of time to talk like that, so hurry up and wave your hands!"

"Yes!"

Straightening his back, Enomoto began to operate. Fushimi, for his part, gives instructions to the entire organization through an electronic network.

"Jungle repulsion plan, second phase. Concentrate your forces in the Cloud Hall on the 75th floor and defeat the Green Clan members one by one."

Without waiting for an answer, Fushimi hung up. As long as he was aware of the situation, there was no need to wait for the report from others. Fushimi muttered as he looked at the map of Mihashira Tower.

"The Silver Clan is at war with Gojou Sukuna. "Scepter 4" and "Homura" will attack Mishakuji Yukari from both sides. We have misunderstood our opponents, but so far it's almost as planned..."

At this time, the car's electronic equipment issued a warning sound.

Fushimi turned towards him, and Enomoto, who was measuring the data, let out a shouting voice.

"Large-scale Weismann anomalies confirmed near ground floor! It's moving!"

"Here you come, "Green King"."

"Well, we've just moved into the second phase! What should we do?!"

Fushimi clicked his tongue again. The originally assumed time no longer made sense. (If they don't respond flexibly and adapt to the situation, why would I have to do the foolish thing that they'll line up?!) As he suppressed the feeling of wanting to yell, Fushimi quickly gave instructions.

"Notify everyone in the hall that the "Green King" has appeared, and then proceed to the third phase."

"Eh, then, but the second phase is still..."

Watched by Fushimi intently, Enomoto quickly turned back to his screen. Hearing the voice of Enomoto, who began to contact each member, Fushimi began to prepare for the activation of Phase 3, the "Lockdown Protocol".

++++++++++

Mishakuji Yukari was starting to get bored.

No matter how fast he runs, what awaits him is a blind, a trap, and then another blind. It does very little as a barrier. That's because the slash attack that runs at the same time goes through them.

Despite that, the other side is repeating that tactic like an idiot. It sounds good when you say it's a strategy to clutter up the amount of material, but ultimately, it's probably because there's nothing else to do. After breaking through the dozens of shutters, Mishakuji muttered in amazement.

"Oh, are you buying time again? As expected, I'm getting a little bored."

So far both are as expected. It is the joseki in shogi and chess. They want to exhaust Mishakuji and Sukuna while leaving traps to interfere with Nagare who comes later. He wants to reduce the number of opponents while they wait for Hisui Nagare. The outcome of the intertwined speculation is 50/50 at the moment, and neither has taken a decisive step.

He was fed up with the situation.

"For the sake of our king, we must smash the traps as much as possible. I know it's part of my job, but..."

"Kwah! Boring! Boring!"

Looking at Kotosaka, who raised his voice in agreement, Mishakuji began to run.

"That's how it is!"

A blunt charge that completely destroys attacking traps. A fierce charge far removed from his previous elegance, anticipating the presence of the enemy's main force. In the tug of war up to that point, he was able to comprehend the location of most of the enemies. If he plunges into the center of it, some kind of change should happen.

Repeating the same thing over and over again is not Mishakuji Yukari's way of life.

"I want to fight with more style!"

"Let's do what you want!"

A reply came from the space that had been shattered, and Mishakuji inadvertently stopped his feet.

A spacious hall that is clearly different from the past. The group in the center waited for Mishakuji with a fighting spirit on his face.

"Here, let's spread flowers!"

The young man in the knit cap who had turned his back on him earlier, the executive of "Homura" Misaki Yata, now headed straight for him. The skateboard, accelerated by the red supernatural ability, approached at such speed that even Mishakuji's eyes were blinded. He sliced through the passing staves with his sword, and just as he was about to counterattack, a shower of flames began to fall.

"......!"

He immediately kicked the ground to avoid it, and there was an explosion where the rain of fire hit. After that heat wave passed, he turned his attention to "Homura".

The man who caused the explosion was smoking purple smoke while he was standing.

"Customer-san. Just like Yata-chan said, this is the end point. I can't let you go anywhere anymore."

Contrary to his calm voice, the eyes behind the sunglasses weren't smiling. Mishakuji, on the other hand, pointed his sword at them with a charming smile.

"I think so. But I'm not going anywhere either."

Mishakuji's gaze was fixed on one of them, a girl.

The "Red Queen", Anna Kushina.

With strained red eyes, she stared at Mishukaji.

"Long time no see, "Red Queen"."

When Mishakuji casually called out to Anna, her shoulders contracted.

"At that time, you were just a helpless child. I haven't seen you for a long time, and you've grown into a splendid king. I misunderstood you."

"Bastard! Why are you talking to Anna without permission? I'm going to kill you!"

Mishakuji bowed respectfully, ignoring Yata, who was shouting from the side.

"Right now, you are undeniably the "King". You may be the youngest in this place, but you are undoubtedly the strongest. Therefore, Anna Kushina... I will take your life."

And then, Mishakuji unleashed a surprise punch.

A slash that glowed green split the air and flew. At almost the same time, Kusanagi released a barrage of flames that rained down like hail. The barrage and the slashes annihilated each other, and this time Mishakuji himself charged into the void that was created. The mysteriously bright tip of "Ayamachi" pointed directly at Anna.

Wings of flame blocked Mishakuji's vision.

"......!"

Mishakuji reflexively rolled to dodge. A few millimeters above his head, a hot, deadly wind swept through. Facing Mishakuji, who kept his distance from her, Anna spread her flame wings and said resolutely.

"Yes. It's different from that time."

A crimson aura rose from her entire body. That's the look of the one ahead of his class, chosen by the "Dresden Slate."

"I'm the "Red Queen". I will not hesitate to use this power to protect everyone!"

That figure reminded Mishukaji of the men he once saw.

The "King", like the infinitely clear blue sky.

The "King," like a red, swirling purgatory.

They were fierce, short-lived, and beautiful as they scattered violently, involving many lives.

Now, an existence with the same power as them, stands in front of him.

Enough opponents to make life glow and burn!

As Mishakuji smiled slightly, multiple footsteps were heard behind him.

"Hey, "Homura", are you alright?!"

"You're late, Blues!"

The members of "Scepter 4" appeared from below. All of them were exhausted, but they still had enthusiasm. They all took out their sabers and began to surround Mishakuji from afar.

Holding the staff, Yata laughed belligerently.

"Heh, there's finally no place to escape. Get ready this time, you bastard!"

"I see."

Two clans and the "Red Queen". The difference in strength is too much to deal with alone.

But Mishakuji did not despair.

An indescribable emotion welled up from the depths of his chest. He couldn't help but hope how much brighter his life could make in that utter dead end. Going into the battle to the death with euphoria instead of fear. After all, Mishakuji is probably just a swordsman.

He sincerely apologized to his two former teachers for that, but the next moment, he was gone.

"On guard."

Declaring war lowly, Mishakuji sank.

At that moment, he felt "it".

"......"

He widened his eyes and looked down at his feet.

Similarly, the only one who noticed "it" seemed to be the enemy, Anna. With her red eyes trembling and her small fist clenched, she whispered:

"...He already came."

The moment he heard that voice, a momentary hesitation was born in Mishukaji.

His exaltation, his desire to know how much he can shine in this dead land. The temptation to launch into a life-and-death battle with the King had an irresistible appeal. Yes. "Jungle" is irrelevant. This moment is the reason he is alive.

Right now. Here... kill the King.

Those whispers tickled his ears, but with just one deep breath, he could no longer hear them. Only the gaze of Hisui Nagare remained, who conveyed his passion for the ideal of the "New World".

Surrender everything to your boiling blood and let your life shine to the limit. That's fine too.

But in the end, Mishakuji didn't choose that option.

Because breaking a promise is not beautiful.

"I cannot do anything about it."

Mishakuji shrugged his regrets aside and gave a small smile.

At that moment, a roar shook the hall.

++++++++++

Hisui Nagare jumped up and down. Like a puppy running through the garden. Like a kid after school.

Nagare climbed up the building while he jumped around the uninhabited Mihashira Tower. He broke traps, he broke blinds, he turned into green lightning and moved forward with nothing to block him.

His appearance was beautiful, wild and joyful.

Freed from everything that bound him and breathing the air of the earth with "freedom". How long has it taken so many people to get that right that is taken for granted.

Iwafune, standing at the entrance of the first floor, couldn't have seen that scene. Still, in Iwafune's mind, the scene certainly appeared.

The "Green King" was unleashed and devastated at his whim.

"Haha... quite well, good health!"

Looking at him, Iwafune drank from a bottle that held whiskey.

"It's been 9 years since he fought the "Golden King" Kokujoji Daikaku, and if you count the case of Kagutsu, it's been 10 years... If you think about it, it's been a long time in the shadows, right? I hope he lives a long time."

Nagare, who was defeated by Kokujoji, had to hide underground to escape the "Tokijikuin" pursuers. He secretly formed his own hands and feet, "Jungle", and slowly spread the branches of conspiracy and espionage.

"However, the elder Kokujoji is no longer in this world. In other words, there is no one on this earth who can stop you with all your might, Nagare."

Nagare's straitjacket not only seals his supernatural powers and his freedom, but also serves as a maintenance device that prolongs his life. That straitjacket is a device through which an enormous amount of supernatural power circulates that is consumed to continue "modifying" death itself.

Now that he has been unleashed, Hisui Nagare will continue to unleash his full power as the "Green King". As the price of freedom, the countdown to death has already begun.

Even so, Iwafune cast an unwavering gaze upwards. With a smile on his lips.

"Ok, Nagare! Run as hard as you can! This Iwa-san is watching, so let go ahead and play with all your might! Haha!"

Iwafune raised the bottle as if he were toasting the floor above, which was shaking with destruction and shock.

A large piece of debris fell right next to it, and he flinched and cringed.

"Wow! What the hell is this?"

++++++++++

The repeated blows jarred his feet and Yata accidentally nearly fell off his skateboard. With one foot on the ground, a new impact hit all of "Homura". Mishakuji Yukari still held his sword and did not waver in the slightest.

Yata clicked his tongue and looked at the ground.

"Is this sound new...? Hey, Blues, hurry up and go to their location!"

"Scepter 4" responded to the voice and blocked Mishakuji's escape route. Seeing him, he chuckled.

"Oh, he left early."

The one who reacted to those words was Awashima Seri.

"Go out? No way."

"Yes, he's coming."

Even Yata could understand who he was pointing at.

The "Green King", Hisui Nagare from "Jungle", who has the greatest strength. Even Mishakuji Yukari, who wields the power of two clans, is but a billboard compared to Nagare.

Mishakuji released his stance and shrugged as he still held his sword.

"Oh, sorry. It's too bad. It's starting to get fun, but it's over."

"It's over! It's over!"

The parrot perched on his shoulder let out an ominous cry. Kusanagi looked at him with a shudder.

"It's over..."

"The "Green King"! It's faster than I expected, but..."

Awashima and Kusanagi, the agitation of the two executives spread like ripples between both clans. Yata was not good at understanding the details of the situation and the strategy of the war, but he was able to clearly understand the spread. He felt resentment and trembling for the arrival of the enemy "King".

Unable to allow it, he raised his voice.

"Oh, don't be scared, everyone! Whether it's the king or a servant, it doesn't matter who comes. It's okay to just blow them up one after another! Cheer up!"

Now it doesn't matter who the opponent is. Whether it's Sukuna Gojou, Mishakuji Yukari, or even the "Green King", all they have to do is face them and fight until they run out of strength. That was Misaki Yata's creed.

Faced with such a Yata, Mishakuji looked at him mockingly.

"Oh, that's great, Opponent-kun. But the reason I'm saying "sorry" is…"

Mishakuji's sword flashed with a speed that even the eye could not catch.

As Yata reflexively raised his staff, Mishakuji shook his sword.

"Huh?! You!"

"My turn is over."

As he gracefully waved his hand at him, Mishakuji fell down the stairs along with the severed floor.

++++++++++

The shock and roar were also transmitted to Sukuna.

Of course he knows what that means. The arrival of the "Green King". Hisui Nagare has finally started to move. At the same time that he felt excited about it, impatience was also born.

He still hadn't done anything. If he doesn't catch even a single Silver Clan in front of him, he won't be able to follow Nagare...

"Shiro!"

"Yes, it looks like they've gotten into the game too. It's faster than I thought."

"What are you going to do, Shiro?"

The three met and whispered something. nobody paid attention to him. That fueled the fire of anger.

"What are they talking about so casually?!"

With an angry voice, Sukuna waved the scythe at him. He activated the extraordinary application "Great Raiha" and a powerful wave of thunder contained in the tip of the sickle captured the three people of the Silver Clan at once.

The figure disappeared like a bubble.

"Tsu...!"

Each one of the bubbles that broke into a thousand pieces swelled up and closed in on Sukuna. Sukuna clucked and jumped back.

At that moment, Yatogami jumped from the other side of the bubble and hit Sukuna with a strong kick.

Sukuna barely blocked the kick with the handle of his scythe. However, he couldn't kill the pressure. Little Sukuna immediately flew out, crashed to the ground from his back and immediately rolled backwards and readied his scythe.

The chase he had been wary of did not come. Isana, Yatogami, and Neko were watching from a distance. More than anything, that made Sukuna yell in anger.

"Dammit! Since a while ago, I started a serious match with you guys!"

Yatogami frowned and in a persuasive tone said:

"Gojou Sukuna. This battle is not to determine an individual's ability."

"Oh? There's nothing more important than winning or losing a game!"

Sukuna understands his mission better than anyone. Eliminate all those who stand in the way of Nagare. He understands that winning that game means winning Nagare's game. That is why he is seriously trying to kill them. If he can get one of the "Kings", his plans will be that much closer to success.

Despite that, he doesn't feel that much resolve from the opponent. They're just trying to buy time. In his head, he understands that this is the purpose of their strategy, but he felt that they were trampling on his pride as a player when they were doing everything they could to go easy on him.

"Bet your life! I'm betting my life!"

Sukuna activated the extraordinary application "Raijin Korin". Sukuna's hand transmits extraordinary supernatural power to the hilt and blade of the scythe. It is a large-scale ranged attack that is second only in power to the "Raiko no Jutsu". If true, he wanted to use it in a way that would involve more enemies, but it can't be helped. At this point, Sukuna decided that annihilating these guys would lead to victory.

The expressions of Shiro and the others tightened as expected due to the enormous power. Yatogami stood in front as he held his sword, and Shiro stood behind him as he twirled his umbrella.

"So you're trying to sell your life... then there's no way around it!"

"Big Move Coming! Counterattack on Swing Time!"

"I understand!"

Isana Yashiro is a "King" in every way. It is doubtful that this psychic ability can pass through the Sanctum. However, taking shortcuts even if there is no match goes against Gojou Sukuna's human creed.

This is because high difficulty bosses are the only opponents worth defeating.

"I'll crush them all together!"

As he roared, Sukuna kicked the ground. He swung the scythe with all his soul. Yatogami looked at him and held his sword on his hips.

At that moment, something fell from above.

"The sun is setting..."

That guy easily deflected Sukuna's scythe, letting <Raijin Korin>'s attack escape up the stairs.

"...those who chose to leave their home..."

As he was, he swiped his sword and caught Yatogami's surprise strike.

"...and those who returned."

He gracefully landed on the spot.

The looks that Sukuna and Yatogami gave him were strangely of the same type.

"Mishakuji Yukari!"

"Yukari! What are you doing interrupting?!"

Mishakuji, who appeared from above cutting through the floor, shrugged off the insults thrown at him with a cold face. Kotosaka took off from his shoulder and began to fly noisily.

"Interrupt! Interrupt!"

"Fufu, Kuro-chan. After meeting the "Silver King" again, you look even better. After all, the selfless sword you wield for your master is what makes you who you are."

Standing on a circular concrete slab, Mishakuji turned like an idol under the spotlight and pointed his sword at Yatogami. Yatogami also raised his sword without lowering his guard, and with a tight voice, he said:

"Did you come to help your partner, Mishakuji Yukari?"

"That's foul play!", Neko yelled.

That line reignited Sukuna's anger. It's the most frustrating when you get stuck in a battle with a formidable enemy. Sukuna let out an angry voice as he stabbed into the ground with the handle of his scythe.

"I don't need help! Get out!"

But Mishakuji shrugged in amazement.

"Help? Save? There's no way I'd do something like that. I just came to find our boy. It's time to go, Sukuna-chan."

"Kwah! Go! Go!"

"I won't! I'm still fighting!"

At Sukuna's throat, which he insisted on, he shot a cold spike at him.

He couldn't see it or react. When he came to, Mishukaji was touching Sukuna's throat with his inverted sword. The hand that held the scythe was full of strength. When Mishakuji did something, he really did it, that fact made Sukuna nervous.

Mishakuji said with a voice as cold as that sword.

"Listen to me, Sukuna. It's not pretty to see a child not following orders. Also, Kuro-chan, I have decided that when the time is right, I will eat you deliciously."

Sukuna's teeth gnashed. Anger and frustration still swirled in his chest.

But at the same time, a calm calculation that surpassed that was beginning to spin in his head.

Mishakuji is there. That means "Homura" and "Scepter 4" are free. If Sukuna continues to fight there without hesitation, he will only become a liability.

Retiring with a loss is frustrating, but letting your team lose to your own record is an unforgivable war crime.

"Gezz. You're much more selfish, aren't you?"

Sukuna changed. If so, the sooner he acts, the better. When he carelessly wielded a scythe imbued with supernatural powers, the side windows shattered and the night wind blew into the building.

"Wait, Mishakuji Yukari!"

Perhaps understanding what the two were thinking, Yatogami hurried over. Sukuna stuck out his tongue in response, while Mishukaji waved his hand gently and muttered happily.

"Kuro-chan, it seems I wasn't meant to fight you tonight. But I'm sure we'll meet again soon. On the fateful day that will bring us to a conclusion."

And so, the two danced in the night breeze.

As he ran through the walls of the building, Sukuna snarled at Mishakuji who was next to him.

"Damn. You got in a good place."

"I've put up with it, so don't complain. Besides..."

Mishakuji looked down and smiled sweetly.

"Today's protagonist is that girl."

Looking beyond Mishakuji's line of sight, he saw green thunder rushing toward the building, spreading thunder, shock, and destruction. His "King", the figure of Hisui Nagare running.

"Well, that's correct."

Sukuna chuckled softly. He finally got to play outside with his friends who have been cooped up for so long. When he thought about it, it seemed that he would be able to forget the momentary defeat in the blink of an eye.

++++++++++

"Fushimi, the third phase has started. Are you ready?"

"It's done. From now on, we will shut down the entire Mihashira Tower along with the information and power systems, and isolate the "Green King". Please note that further communication will be limited through the detection ability of the "King Red"."

"I understand."

Mihashira Tower, in the "Slate Room".

Reisi Munakata listened to Fushimi and Awashima's communication with his eyes closed.

This strategy is divided into three phases. It was conceived, discussed and concluded mainly by Shiro and Munakata. They spent all their resources to crush the minority with the majority.

First phase. Attract the members of "Jungle", divide them and exhaust them.

Second stage. The three clans... Red, Blue and Silver will destroy or exhaust the "Jungle" members who will be divided.

And then the third phase. Activate the "Lockdown Protocol" when the appearance of the "Green King" is confirmed. All combat personnel except the "King" will come to their support.

The "Blocking Protocol" is literally the main purpose of the blocking. All the traps in the building are activated without hesitation, and the communication network is physically and electronically isolated by physically destroying the communication network with explosives placed in various locations.

With slightly wide eyes, Munakata muttered to himself.

"There are no lights to illuminate the path, no voices to reach your ears, and many thick walls block your way. This entire Mihashira Tower is a prison for you."

Now, in Munakata's mind, the figure of Nagare running inside the building was vividly projected.

All kinds of barriers stand in front of Nagare, who has the will and runs like thunder. Anti-personnel traps, including reinforced shutters, anti-psychic barricades, mines, turrets, and traps, for that purpose. Various weapons requisitioned from the army by maximizing the authority of "Scepter 4" bared their fangs against the "King".

"Of course, there's no way we can hold off a king with a trick like this, but every trick will definitely take away your limited time and physical strength."

And those traps are not the biggest barriers for Nagare.

The "Silver King" and the "Red Queen". They are on the same level as Nagare, and it is the highest class of strength.

"Can you get here after clearing 100 walls and two kings? "Green King" Hisui Nagare."

The moment he muttered that, he felt something twist under his feet.

It wasn't the impact of the destruction that Nagare was spreading. It was faint, but someone's heartbeat, as if resonating with the very soul.

Looking down, the "Dresden Slate" embedded in the glass floor pulsed with a faint glow.

"Four kings meet in one place. You seem to understand what that means."

The biggest "sin" a king can commit. The "Damocles Down".

When Weismann's maximum deviation from the "King" reaches a critical point, the "Sword of Damocles" hanging over his head falls. The impact of the fall of the "King" would burn a radius of tens of kilometers and take the lives of hundreds of thousands of humans.

And above all, the most terrifying fact is that the power of the "Damocles Down" increases multiplicatively.

If both swords were to fall, the nation of Japan, or perhaps the land itself, would be wiped out. And if there are three? When it reaches four, it may bring a fate to the surface that threatens human civilization.

If a "Sword of Damocles" falls, other swords will fall in a chain reaction. It is not an exaggeration to say that the four kings who meet in this small building have the fate of humanity on their shoulders.

"But it won't happen."

Munakata muttered towards the "Slate" as if he was talking to a person with a will.

"I won't let you do that."

As the "Blue King" who is in charge of "order", he must never bring about its downfall. Preparations have already been made to prevent that from happening.

Just like the old "Blue King", Habari Jin.

The "Slate Room" where Munakata was was the final line. He seals the "Slate" that encourages human innovation and prevents the sword that causes humanity's destruction. Reisi Munakata's pride was to bear the fate of the human race, never to be confused, never waver, and never falter.

++++++++++

The remnants of the melted round shutter continued endlessly.

The "Green King" is like a ray of light that runs freely. The powerful electrical heat that it radiates itself burns and melts everything from velvet rugs and marble floors to steel barriers. Even without using Anna's web of supernatural power, it was easy to track Nagare by following the "footprints".

Kuro growled as he stared at the edge of the melted shutter.

"Is this how it all looked after Hisui Nagare passed through here?"

Shiro nodded his head.

"Yes. He's using his power like crazy. He's also much faster than expected. But there's no way he can stand up to this."

"Isn't that what you expected?"

"No, it's more than he expected, or rather, it doesn't seem like it's going to work. What is he thinking? Something doesn't feel right."

Or, Shiro believes that "it" is the normal functioning of Nagare. It's been 9 years since he took it seriously, and from the measurement records of that time, Shiro had predicted Nagare's activity limit time. Also keeping in mind that Nagare will grow and accumulate strength.

But the current situation goes far beyond those expectations.

With that much power, no matter how you look at it, Nagare's active time is less than 30 minutes. It's already been ten minutes since he broke in. Shiro, Anna, and Munakata should hold out for the remaining 20 minutes. If he was alone, he wouldn't know what to do, but if the three "Kings" worked together to deal with it, he could easily buy that amount of time.

There's no way Nagare didn't know. Despite that, he heads straight for the "Slate". It's like he thinks he'll be fine even if he's exhausted.

"Shiro! Shiro! Hurry up!"

Neko's voice suddenly brought Shiro back to his senses.

"Hisui Nagare has removed the limiter. I will use my power without thinking of limits."

"So you mean..."

"Anna is in danger!"

At the same time as he yelled, Shiro and Kuro began to run next to each other. Leaping over the rows of melted blinds and heading towards the battlefield with Anna, below was Hisui Nagare still advancing. Neko, who was left alone, also ran after them.

++++++++++

"Vice Commander. Everyone is ready."

Awashima nodded to Akiyama, who whispered softly.

The members of the Special Forces behind her did not escape unscathed. They played an important role in luring and separating the two "Jungle" members who rushed in at the beginning of the operation. Serious injuries such as sword wounds, burns, abrasions, and even broken bones were ordered to stay in the rear, but they all refused.

Because they know that this battle will determine their future destiny.

A little further away, Kusanagi also sent a notice to the "Homura" members.

"Well, the main character is Anna. Even if small things wander into the battle between the "Kings", they will only be an obstacle. Soon, Isana Yashiro, the "Silver King" will join us. Shiro-san will be defending, Anna attack, and we'll all be acting as a distraction and support."

"Oh, got it?!"

"Yes!"

Just like "Scepter 4", "Homura" was in a good mood even after taking a hit. They do not know the details or the depth of the situation. Still, the passion to devote himself to his "King" with his companions is exactly the same as "Scepter 4".

Kusanagi teased Yata.

"Yata-chan, you don't know what you're doing, right?"

"It's all about setting up a diversion and not going too far!"

"If you rush like the other day, you'll get burned. Be careful."

"Hey, what happened the other day has nothing to do with it! I got it!"

In the exchange between Yata and Kusanagi, a small laugh leaked out between "Homura". Awashima muttered in amazement.

"Even at a time like this, "Homura" has a lot of energy..."

She felt a look on her cheek. When she looked over there, Anna was looking at her.

Although she is a girl, she is a respected "King". Awashima turned to Anna and bowed her head respectfully.

"Excuse me, "Red Queen"."

"Because we are connected."

"Eh?"

"We are all deeply connected. That is why."

Saying so, she rolled a red marble in her palm.

"Our fire will never go out."

The red glow that illuminates the marbles is the eldritch web node that is the cornerstone of this operation. However, the "connection" Anna is talking about is probably not referring to that. They share something bigger without even going through the network.

Maybe it's the time they spent together.

It can be the place where they live together.

It may be someone's memory.

They are strongly connected by such things. Awashima is dazzled by that. She doesn't think "Scepter 4" is inferior to "Homura", but is it really as deep a bond as theirs?

"Still, the one that doesn't convince me is the "Blue King"."

Awashima gasped at the sudden voice.

"He's making Anna, the queen of "Homura" risk his life, while he retires to rest. What the hell is that bastard doing? Does he think he's superior?"

Yata crossed his arms with a disgusted expression and complained to Kusanagi. The reason they were speaking loud enough to make it to "Scepter 4" was not to make themselves heard. Awashima also acknowledges that Yata is not that kind of person. He is just sincere.

Kusanagi looked at Awashima. His face said "be tolerant." So, as if he admonished Yata...

"Yata, that was decided at the meeting. We can't let the "Green King" get to the "Slate Room", and if we all get in here and break through, it will be even worse. From now on, Anna and Shiro-san will reduce the enemy's strength, and even if they happen to reach that place, the "Blue King" behind them will surely stop them. That's how it should be."

"No, I'm not talking about strategy or anything like that. What I'm talking about is more of a feeling, an attitude."

Yata lowered his eyes a bit and muttered to himself.

"Kuh, I don't get why anyone would want to follow him."

Awashima felt anger rise among her subordinates behind her.

At the same time, Kusanagi patted Yata on the head.

"Idiot, you're talking too much about something else. I'm sorry, Seri-chan."

With those words, Yata seemed to finally realize that his voice was reaching "Scepter 4". He awkwardly looked at Awashima and said impatiently.

"Ah, it's not about you..."

"...No."

Awashima gently shook her head.

She knew who Yata was talking about. Fushimi Saruhiko. A man who once left "Homura" and later joined "Scepter 4". Yata and Fushimi had a relationship that could be called friends, but Fushimi broke off that relationship.

Their enmity still exists. Most of Yata's anger and frustration towards "Scepter 4" probably stems from Fushimi's affiliation with them. Therefore, Awashima did not take Yata's mistake at face value.

And in a sense, Yata's words are correct.

Everyone in "Scepter 4" would agree that their "King", Reisi Munakata, was a bottomless man. Like Anna Kushina, he is not a "King" who lives with Clansman. This was Munakata's way of being as the "King" who could see everything from a high place and order the clansmen around as he wished.

What is Munakata thinking about in the final line of the "Alliance of the Three Kings", the "Slate Room"? What is he looking at? What is he feeling? Even Awashima, who is his confidante, isn't sure.

At that moment, Anna turned her head and muttered.

"Everyone, back off."

"What?"

Almost at the same time Kusanagi asked, an impact unlike anything before that, shook his feet.

"...He's coming."

Before Anna's gaze, the last of the many layers of shutters suddenly changed shape.

The shutter, which is strong enough to withstand a single hit from a tank gun, crushed and spun inward. As if a wild giant was smashing with all its might, various dents were born on the surface, and it finally became unbearable and exploded.

"Kuh?!"

Mixed with the dust and debris, an extraordinary amount of energy overflowed. A big storm breaking out in the green. The man standing in the center of it all, the "Green King" Hisui Nagare, bared his fangs and laughed.

He waved his right hand carelessly.

The lightning formed the claws of a beast and attacked Awashima and the others. In the blink of an eye, they were unable to react at all.

Flame wings engulfed "Scepter 4" and "Homura".

The "Red Queen". Anna Kushina's supernatural ability. Her supernatural ability, manifested as a flame with will, acted as a shield and repelled the fatal blow. The lightning claws flew in various directions, carving long claw marks on the walls and ceiling of the hall.

Nagare laughed even deeper on the other side of the flickering flames.

"Special Forces. Defensive formation."

Before she could say it out loud, Nagare had disappeared.

All Awashima could perceive was the diffusely reflected green glow and the intense pain that tore through her body. Her awareness flickered with pain as if struck by lightning, and when she came to, she was sprawled on the ground. The reason why she barely fainted was probably thanks to the supernatural field she had developed.

Yata, who had fallen nearby, staggered back, showing his resistance.

"Tch... Damn, I let my guard down!"

When she looked around, most of "Scepter 4" and "Homura" were knocked out. In less than a split second, Nagare had nearly destroyed the two clans.

"That's the "Green King"...!"

The vaguely filtered murmur contained a sound close to despair.

It's a different level from the "Kings" they've seen so far. At least, so it seemed to Awashima. Without a "Golden King", there is no doubt that Nagare is the strongest "King". Clansman etc. are not a problem for him at all.

Awashima probably wasn't the only one who felt helpless. There were a few clansmen who didn't faint, but they were visibly demoralized. Awashima bit her lip and tried to scold them.

But before that, a girl stood up and walked forward.

"Anna! Are you hurt?!"

"I'm fine."

Among the clansmen standing side by side, only the "Red Queen" was unharmed. There is no shyness in her eyes, there is only determination and a sense of mission.

"Here I go. I must stop him."

Wings of flame spread and flutter. Kusanagi yelled as he covered his face from the hot wind.

"Anna!"

Anna didn't hear him. As that small body floated to the surface, she flew towards the hallway, chasing after Nagare as she scattered her otherworldly red feathers.

"Vice Commander..."

A moan came from nearby. When she turned around, the members of the Special Forces, who had injuries all over their body's, were looking at her anxiously.

Their hearts are not broken. At least not yet.

However, their body's, which had been damaged in battles with Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna, had already reached their limit. Awashima couldn't lead them to chase the "Green King".

"...Akiyama. Sort the injured into levels and transfer them to the rear. Take the severely injured to the hospital."

Akiyama gasped at the de facto retreat order. Without looking back, Awashima turned on her heel and started walking.

"Ah, where are you going, Vice Commander?!"

"To the "Slate Room". The Captain is in danger."

The power of the "Green King" far exceeded Awashima's expectations. Isana Yashiro predicted that the energy consumed by Hisui Nagare is inversely proportional to the hours of operation. What if the current Munakata was directly hit by a kamikaze-like destruction that he didn't even think of what would come next?

The worst damage was found to be a stiff neck. That alone should be avoided at all costs. Her own life would be nothing more than a paper against the total power of the "King", but still, it is better than doing nothing.

"It's unreasonable! Dealing with a monster like that alone...!"

"Please take us with you!"

Voices were raised one after another among the Special Forces. But Awashima stared at them and shook her head. Some squad members are already injured to the point of not being able to fight.

Letting them accompany her there is the same as ordering them to die. Even Awashima was not prepared to go that far.

At that moment, a voice came from another direction.

"You're not alone. We're going too."

Awashima's eyes widened and she turned her attention to him.

It was "Homura". They are the same ones who received the damage. There are also some clan members who can't stand up.

Even so, Yata and Kusanagi had yet to see despair in their eyes.

When Kusanagi's eyes met, he smiled.

"If you have to protect the "King", we are with you."

Awashima didn't answer, just nodded.

"Homura" and "Scepter 4" used to go head to head and collided many times. But now they share a purpose.

It is to support their "King".

They began to run, with Awashima leading the way. To the "Slate Room". To the battlefield of the "Kings".

++++++++++

A bolt of lightning tore through the interior of the building.

At first glance, it might have seemed like a natural phenomenon. A magnificent spectacle of the gods created by the difference in voltage between the atmosphere and the earth. It is a harbinger of calamity that runs carelessly and haphazardly, destroying everything it touches. The thunder, however, had a certain intention.

The path where the thunder rushed was not random, but was repelled by precise calculation. Before the blockade of Mihashira Tower, he accurately traced the route sent by Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna. If Fushimi Saruhiko had watched him, he would have clucked and cursed. Ultimately, until the third phase, the "Alliance of Three Kings" had been unable to capture "Jungle".

But even that is trivial on the battlefield of the "Kings".

There was a bird chasing the rushing thunder. A young bird that flies with flaming wings and spreading fiery feathers. Each of the fluttering feathers in the air changed direction according to their will, and was shot by lightning like a missile chasing an enemy aircraft.

The lightning spun around and dodged its wings, turned around, laughed, and slowed down.

Flying in parallel, the thunder greeted the bird.

"Hello, "Red Queen" Anna Kushina. I was in a rush earlier, I'm sorry. I apologize."

Nagare's tone did not sound like she was in combat. He is as calm as if he is talking to an acquaintance. Anna clenched her back teeth and let out a tense voice.

"Listen, "Green King" Hisui Nagare. Stop it. I can't give you that. That "Slate" is not your toy."

Nagare easily stated that.

"Of course, that's not my toy. I agree. Players who have awakened powers that surpass humans compete to rise to the top. The "Dresden Slate" is a system for that purpose. In other words, no It's just me, it's everyone's toy."

Anna's expression turned serious. Clenching her small fist, she said:

"Stop."

Nagare laughed again, rose, fell, and rose. While he did it, he danced. He spread his hands in the air, turned and said as if he were singing.

"I won't stop, I can't stop. Anna Kushina, I will fulfill my purpose."

"Stop!"

The attack was not intentional. If possible, she wanted to end it with dialogues.

But Anna knew. As Isana Yashiro once pointed out. She knew that through intuition rather than reason.

They can't stop Hisui Nagare with words.

In response to her will, another pair of flames erupted from Anna's back. They are not wings. It was her sword that took the form of a blade to stop the heart of a group of supernatural energy, Nagare.

Nagare looked at Anna and smiled even deeper. Thunder's body stopped suddenly and he turned to Anna. Anna gritted her teeth and fired her own sword.

A pair of flaming swords flew up in a double helix, landed, and exploded.

"......"

Anna also stopped flying and landed. Looking across the flickering explosion, Nagare was unscathed.

"Hmm. Even though you just woke up, you are quite mastering the power of the King. I am impressed."

Conscious of the cold sweat running down her back, Anna returned the words.

"You do not understand the meaning of this power."

"Power itself has no meaning. Every holder of power gives it meaning."

"That's not all...!"

Anna clenched her fists. There, she gathered a crimson aura.

Seeing that, Nagare said as if he was warning.

"I see. In other words, you want to find meaning in it. Suoh Mikoto. Does the will of the previous "Red King" reside there?"

"......"

"I'm sorry, but that's an assumption. Suoh Mikoto and his will no longer exist anywhere in this world. He disappeared with his body. You're free to assume you've inherited it, but it's gone."

"No!"

Screaming, Anna kicked the ground.

The flame wings produced an explosive acceleration. Without hesitation, Anna hurled at Nagare the destructive supernatural energy that she had put into her small fist.

The fist was easily caught by Nagare's palm.

"No doubt."

Nagare laughed even more as he gently wrapped around Anna's fist.

"Because I am the same. I follow their ideas. The wishes of 700.000 people sleeping in that crater. Correct this world where the "King" randomly takes lives. I think they are still screaming from the bottom of the sea."

Using the fist that Nagare clenched as a pivot, Anna turned her body around and kicked him in the stomach with all her strength. Her small body flew back, and Nagare also took a few steps.

"Good."

Facing Anna, who landed and raised her fists, Nagare calmly spread his arms.

"We have confirmed our disagreements. Now let the game begin."

He unleashed his talent.

The supernatural energy that had been radiated indiscriminately began to take on a certain pattern. A mane of thunder wrapped around his head and claws of sparks covered his limbs. In the center of it is his heart, already lost in the hole in Nagare's chest. The mass of supernatural energy pulsing in the depths of his open chest continues to alter his "death".

Nagare is now trying to channel that energy into battle. He is trying to cut the "life" from her and fight according to his own will.

The situation reminded Anna of a word. That is to say...

"The... Thunderbeast!"

Anna once again generated multiple flame swords and fired them in quick succession.

However, she did not hit Nagare. Leaning forward like a beast, he rushed forward and zigzagged through the rain. Glowing green claws thrust out to pull out Anna's heart.

"Ah...!"

Anna closed her wings of fire, barely blocking the attack. "Red" and "Green", two supernatural energies collided and annihilated each other creating a shock wave. In the wave of deadly energy that would have killed an ordinary person instantly, the two "Kings" cut and knotted, and flew while knotting.

It is not the life or death of each one that decides this party. The whereabouts of the "Dresden Slate", that relic that decides the fate of mankind, is what leads to victory or defeat. The "Kings" understood that accurately.

++++++++++

Isana Yashiro's Sanctum floated in the air with its umbrella open in the cold air of the December night.

The interior of Mihashira Tower has been turned into a half-labyrinth due to the invasion of two "Jungle" members and the physical blockade of the "Chabudai Alliance". Unlike Nagare and Anna, Shiro who doesn't have an explosive exit was chasing them from the outer wall of the building.

The battle had already begun. Flashes of fire and lightning were reflected in the windows of the building.

"Anna and Hisui Nagare are fighting..."

"Shiro, look!"

It was Kuro who pointed above his head. He clung to the wall of a building with his Colorless ability, and Neko clung to his neck. At the point where he was pointing, in the sky above Mihashira Tower, two swords appeared as if they were fighting each other.

A red sword that looks like a burning flame and a cool green sword that looks like a roaring forest.

The two "Swords of Damocles" meant that the "Kings" collided with each other with all their might.

"Shiro! Let's hurry up and save Anna!"

Neko let out a hasty voice and Kuro nodded loudly. Nagare, who claims to be the strongest, is too heavy a burden for Anna. As soon as possible, Shiro must also participate in the war.

But...

"Wait a minute."

The reason why he muttered under his breath was because no matter how he looked at it, the calculation didn't add up.

Shiro understands better than anyone the conditions in which the "Sword of Damocles" appears. After all, he was the one who brought that formula into the world.

The nostalgic Konig plan. Sword-shaped Kouki that appears when an EX-α individual's W Deflection exceeds the threshold. Therefore, it is also a barometer that shows how serious the "King" is.

The point is that the "Sword of Damocles" appears only when the Weismann deviation from the "King" exceeds a certain percentage.

Nagare is fighting seriously. In fact, he possessed powers beyond Shiro's imagination, and the possibility that he was fighting while he suppressed energy from him disappeared with that.

By best estimate, Nagare's battery drains in less than five minutes. The inside of his head made a noise.

He doesn't know what Nagare is aiming for. After expending so much unrestrained energy, he hasn't been able to defeat even one of the "Kings". If Shiro was Nagare, they would have withdrawn by now. At this rate, it was obvious that he would be surrounded by three "Kings" and stopped.

Or is this also part of the plan?

Even if he runs out of energy and collapses, is there still "something" that leads him to victory?

"Shiro! Anna!"

Neko's voice crying brought Shiro out of the sea of thoughts.

The expressions of the countless people who once lost their lives in front of him flashed through his mind for a moment and disappeared. He wouldn't add Anna to one of them. He has the power to protect someone. This time, he decided to handle it completely.

"Come on!"

Shouting, Shiro kicked into the air. Kuro and Neko did the same.

It's good to think. It's okay to get lost. But don't just run away. Regardless of Hisui Nagare's intentions, Shiro decided so. So he just followed his heart.

++++++++++

It's strict.

Nagare definitely thought so as he ran through the halls of Mihashira Tower like a meteor.

Of course, he was happy until now. For the first time in a long time, Nagare, who had been straitjacketed underground, was able to enjoy freedom. Just jumping and jumping and fully breathing was pretty fun.

But now he had a "playmate."

Anna Kushina, the flaming bird, the "Red Queen" was chasing Nagare who was running.

Despite her young age, her determination and disposition were exactly the vessel of a "King".  With only a thought to protect her comrades, she challenged Nagare, who is far more powerful than her. You might laugh at her for being reckless due to her youth, but Nagare was familiar with that figure.

That night. It was like him, who challenged the "Golden King" even though he knew he couldn't win.

He was happy. So it was fun. The reason was that even though he knew that obtaining the "Dresden Slate" was a priority, he couldn't leave Anna alone.

As he ran, Nagare kicked the ground and danced in the air. With a movement that ignores the laws of physics, he twisted his body in the air and swing his arms at Anna.

The sparks emitted from both claws attacked Anna like a slash.

"......!"

Anna flapped her fiery wings and turned her body to dodge the attack. At the same time, she created a flaming sword and fire it. A direct hit would definitely result in a fatal injury. That was definitely "nice" for Nagare.

If he doesn't risk his life, he won't get true innovation.

Before long, at the end of the long corridor, the door of the "Slate Room" came into view.

Nagare narrowed his eyes. It's a hopeful, unlucky, mixed feeling. There is no doubt that therein lies his most sincere longing. Still, it was a shame that "moment" ended.

Looking back at Anna, who had caught up with him, Nagare confessed honestly.

"Sorry, Kushina Anna. Looks like my game with you ends here."

Anna's expression turned tense as if she sensed something with her sensitive ability.

The supernatural lightning energy that covered Nagare's entire body began to emit an abnormal glow. The pounding pulse abruptly increased his pace, and the electrical charge in the air created an unpleasant sizzle. Anna spread her flame wings and slammed to a halt, taking a great distance from Nagare.

And then, Nagare released his power.

Thunder several times more powerful than the "Raiko no Jutsu" exploded around Nagare. A storm of coffers that burns and destroys everything it touches. Driven back by a torrent of power that resembled the wrath of a god, Nagare opened the door with his own body.

And Nagare saw it.

The circular "Slate" embedded in the thick floor glass. The last hidden treasure that brings innovation to humanity.

The "Dresden Slate".

Nagare smiled involuntarily as he climbed to the top of his dream.

"I have finally arrived. It is the goal."

"No, there is no target."

A voice reached his ears.

When he looked at him, their eyes met. Eyes as if rationality and reason were condensed and hardened. While he is bathed in destructive energy, his expression is calm as if blown by a gentle breeze.

The "Blue King" Reisi Munakata.

His saber was stopping Nagare's body. Blue and green, two energies that push and cancel each other. Even with all of Nagare's power, he still couldn't defeat Munakata's saber.

No. It's different.

It was no longer "full power." His energy, his life, is rapidly losing his luster. Nagare knew that through his senses.

In an instant, the energy membrane that had covered Nagare's entire body was broken. Like light snow melting in the sunlight, he crumbled, and vanished from the surface at the contact of Munakata's blade.

The weight of "death" weighs on both shoulders.

Nagare suddenly changed the direction of his energy. He tried to direct all the energy that had gone haywire out, in, and expend all of his strength to survive.

Munakata did not miss that opportunity.

The saber gave off an intense glow, and the power formed by the blue supernatural ability acted as a "thrust force" instead of a "cutting force". Munakata then tossed Nagare's body, which had become defenseless, over his head like a baseball player hitting a home run ball.

Breaking through the multiple layers of the ceiling, Nagare's body rose up into the night sky.

Looking up at the brilliant pure white moon, Nagare smiled quietly.

++++++++++

Isana Yashiro was the first to notice.

Above the Mihashira Tower, where multiple "Swords of Damocles"... "Red" and "Green" floating in the night sky were fighting each other, a new sword "Blue" appeared. Directly receiving that glow, the "Green" sword distorted, wavered, and finally disappeared.

"Finally... your battery is dead!"

Shiro kicked into the air and rose up. Running along the wall of the building, Kuro and Neko also followed.

Hisui Nagare's power has been exhausted. So far it was predictable.

No, he supposed that could be said to be too predictable. It was too self-explanatory, like throwing an object and it will fall over.

That's why Shiro couldn't stop the excitement.

If all of that is according to Hisui Nagare's plot.

Even if he desperately thinks, he can't read the plot. Maybe they were misinterpreting something in some ridiculous way. He couldn't control his anxiety.

Shiro thought so. He thought as he ran through the air. Through the gaping hole in the top floor of Mihashira Tower, they broke into the "Slate Room".

"Anna! Munakata-san!"

In the "Slate Room", things were already changing.

From the entrance, he could see Anna walking slowly inside. Her body seemed to be damaged and exhausted, but she still hadn't run out of energy. She looked up at Shiro, nodded slightly, and returned her eyes to the center of the room.

There were two "Kings" there.

"Blue King" and "Green King". Reisi Munakata and Hisui Nagare.

It was already resolved. Nagare had his exhausted body stretched out, and Munakata plunged a saber into his neck.

Looking towards Nagare, Munakata asked quietly.

"How was it, Hisui Nagare? Did you have as much fun as you wanted? You were like a beast, without intelligence or order."

While looking at Munakata, Nagare responded with a bright voice.

"Yes, it was a lot of fun, Reisi Munakata. And all humans are beasts. We are just individual creatures that are different from each other."

Then, Nagare shook his head and fixed his gaze on her.

"I'm sure you are too, Ameno Miyabi."

Everyone present saw Neko.

Neko shrugged. Gold and blue, two eyes wide open and blood pouring from her face. The expression on her face only expressed a feeling.

That means, fear.

"Wa-Wagahai is a cat!"

Saying that to cut him off, Neko hid on Kuro's back. As if by doing so she could cease to exist.

"Neko...?"

Even when Kuro asked worriedly, Neko just shook her head. Shiro observed the situation from within the Japanese umbrella.

On the other hand, Munakata looked back at Nagare.

"Ameno Miyabi, is that the real name of the girl that I couldn't find even with the investigation of "Scepter 4"? But isn't she too special to be an example for humans in general?"

"I think so because you're stupid. She's my compatriot. We redefine ourselves without being bound by our preconceived humanity. The way free spirit should be is the potential of being human. And now, me, who's closest to that ideal, I have come to receive the "Slate"."

A sarcastic smile appeared on Munakata's lips.

"Are you going to say that you are the one who deserves to be the administrator of the "Slate"? That is really arrogant."

Nagare also gave Munakata a quizzical look.

"That is a misunderstanding, Munakata Reisi. There can be no such thing as a "proper manager" for the "Dresden Slate". Arbitrarily trying to handle "it", the source of possibility, itself shows a lack of understanding of its essence. It's absurd."

"I see. Are you saying that the raison d'être of the "Slate" is not to administer power, but to invite chaos that simply unleashes it?"

"There is no such thing as "meaning". Only powerful people wield that power at will."

"Like Kagutsu Genji?"

That question stopped time in the "Slate Room".

Genji Kagutsu. The treacherous "King" who caused the worst burst of royal power in history.

Like Kagutsu, Hisui Nagare's origin is shrouded in mystery. No one knows how he came to be "King" before he suddenly appeared before the "Golden King" nine years ago.

However, due to his abnormal build, the hole in his chest, and the powerful energy he constantly radiates, Shiro speculated that Nagare was a victim of the Kagutsu Incident. During the great destruction caused by Kagutsu, wasn't Nagare chosen as the "King"?

If so, Munakata's question is too cruel.

And then, Nagare answered that question head on.

"Affirmative. I will give all humans the power to protect themselves from a "King" like Kagutsu Genji. Therefore, I don't care if I become Kagutsu himself."

His commanding and unwavering response showed that this was his true intention.

There is no change in the fact that Nagare is the "King" of the conspiracy that lurks in the depths of the Web. Many lives were lost by getting caught in the web.

But at its core, perhaps, it was an ideal that was as pure as a child.

For the first time, Munakata felt the true feelings of the hostile "King", but, even so, Munakata did not hesitate.

"But you're running out of power now. How do you view this situation?"

A brilliant blue blade touched Hisui Nagare's throat. If Munakata wanted to, he would be able to take Nagare's life right now.

"Hisui Nagare, you are already dead. According to the information from the "Silver King", your physical vitality is barely maintained thanks to the Green Clan's special ability. This is probably the reason why they can freely adjust their own athletic abilities."

Even so, Nagare did not show the slightest agitation. As if everything was going according to plan.

"However, if you run out of power, it's like this, a toy with a dead battery... No, it's supposed to be like a corpse. I don't think you're qualified to compete with me for ownership of the "Slate"."

Nagare looked at Munakata and smiled gently.

"That's right. But I'm not the one to fight you."

Saying that, Nagare added.

"Now... "He" will come the way that I made. He's my trump card."

"He?"

No one could understand who he was referring to. Hisui Nagare's trump card. It's neither Mishakuji Yukari, Gojou Sukuna, or Kotosaka. The final piece, probably known only to Nagare.

Isana Yashiro was the closest to an answer. The response to Nagare's plan was moving forward so they wouldn't get distracted. However, even if they knew there was "something", they didn't know what it was.

However, the footsteps of "him" had already begun to be heard.

Drifting, turning into a "gray" mist.

++++++++++

"Come on! Anna's in danger! Show your guts on her!"

"Yes!"

Yata raised his fist and cheered them on as he raced down the hall on his skateboard. In response, the members of "Homura" let out a voice. The figure of them rushing towards the "Slate Room" together, towards the battlefield of the "Kings", was like a meteor shower of fireballs.

Slightly behind them, Kusanagi, Awashima, and the members of "Scepter 4" were running as well. Awashima muttered in amazement as he stared at "Homura" and the others.

"I'm really fine, even in this situation..."

Kusanagi responded with a smile.

"Since this is the situation, let's do it. At times like this, it's good to have Yata-chan."

"Vice Commander."

Akiyama, who was catching up, briefed Awashima.

"It seems that a problem has occurred in the supernatural network of the "Red King". We are having trouble communicating with the command vehicle."

Kusanagi's expression hardened and exchanged glances with Awashima. He didn't want to think that something happened to Anna.

(I can't imagine what kind of situation she will be in in the battle with Hisui Nagare. As soon as possible, we must arrive on the battlefield and support them.)

As soon as he thought that, Yata yelled and stopped.

"Gah!"

Kusanagi also stopped and looked at him.

A cloud of gray smoke.

No, that was...

"What is this... fog...? Watch out everyone!"

As he shouted a warning, Kusanagi turned his gaze to Awashima. If it can't be natural, then they have to think of it as interference from the enemy's supernatural powers. They had to work on corrective action immediately.

However, Awashima was not there.

Kusanagi widened his eyes and looked around. Yata, Kamamoto, and the "Homura" members, who had been in a good mood until a while ago, were nowhere to be seen.

"Yata! Kamamoto! Seri-chan!"

In the vague world of mist, Kusanagi raised his voice alone. But what returned was silence.

No.

There was only one thing that rang in his ears.

Katsun, katsun, the sound of someone's footsteps.

Behind the misty veil, the figures flickered. Someone was walking. He took a leisurely step, as if he were taking a walk, and he didn't seem to mind Kusanagi.

"Who the hell are you?!"

Kusanagi made a quick decision. He saw the figure as the source of the situation, the enemy. He created countless fireballs with his lighter and shot them out like a shotgun.

All those fireballs hit the figure.

And everything slipped.

"What?!"

He felt a figure laugh from beyond the mist.

But that was it. "It" did not stop, it went into the misty world and went back.

"What the hell is that guy?! Damn it, Anna!"

Kusanagi began to run in the direction where the shadow had disappeared. At the same time, he took out a marble from his pocket and looked at it.

The red glow, flickering faintly, was still on. Kusanagi spoke to him.

"Fushimi! Can you hear me?! What's going on now?!"

The marble flickered and Enomoto's voice echoed in his mind. It was imperfect, like a noisy radio transmission.

"There's an unknown Sanctum inside the tower...! It's a "King"!"

Only those words were clearly audible.

"What?!"

"Vertical Over... The "Sword of Damocles"!"

"Impossible! A fifth "King"!"

Kusanagi ground her teeth. All kinds of questions were resolved immediately. But he didn't have time to analyze it. Through the misty hallway he ran forward.

If Kusanagi had had time to look at the sky at that moment, he would have been in awe of its majesty.

Like when Fushimi jumped out of the command vehicle on the ground floor and looked up at the sky.

There was a "Sword of Damocles" floating in the "gray".

++++++++++

The mist enveloped Shiro as if it had a will. As if to isolate each individual, entering the gaps between humans and trying to separate their existence.

"Shiro!"

With a weak voice, Neko came closer. Kuro also drew his sword and stood in front of Shiro. So that no matter what kind of person attacks, he will be cut down immediately.

"Ok. I'll be by your side."

Whispering softly, Shiro grabbed Neko's hand. Her cold, trembling hands meant that she was completely scared.

Regret stabbed into his chest. He wishes he had taken better care of her. Neko has always been afraid. She acts stubborn so they wouldn't understand her. He was distracted by Hisui Nagare's mysterious behavior and didn't see the signal.

He had to listen to Neko's story.

But before that, the situation itself must be dealt with.

"Munakata-san."

He called him as a warning. From that mist he could feel the signs of "blocking" and "rejection". But, the "Kings" are too big to hide. Just as no wall can hide mountains, Munakata's presence was firmly there.

Munakata spoke in a calm tone.

"I see, so you were behind Hisui Nagare's reckless actions and inexplicable self-confidence..."

At that moment, Munakata swung his saber to the side with imperceptible speed.

The blue phosphorescence dispersed, and his glow pierced through the mist itself.

A bored middle-aged man in a cassock appeared from the other side.

Shiro, however, recognized that face. He looks very tired and unshaven, but he's seen him.

That is to say...

"The Sixth King, the "Grey King", who is said to have died during the Kagutsu Incident..."

"Ah, wait a minute, Munakata. Human relations come first. I have something to tell you."

As if to interrupt Munakata, who was about to speak, he raised a hand.

"If it's about me, call me "Iwa-san"."

Saying that, he smiled.

[vizentarchitectural]

Texture Baking Tips for Realistic 3D Game Props

In the world of 3D modeling games, realism is king. Whether you're building a complex 3D game environment or a standalone props 3D model, texture baking can be the secret weapon that turns good models into unforgettable assets. This blog dives into professional texture baking tips tailored to help you create 3D game assets that look stunning and perform efficiently in real-time engines.

What is Texture Baking?

This includes lighting, shadows, ambient occlusion, normal maps, and more. It’s crucial for optimizing 3D game environments without sacrificing visual quality.

In 3D environment modeling, texture baking allows artists to simulate complex lighting and detail on low poly meshes, perfect for games where performance and fidelity must coexist.

Why Texture Baking Matters in 3D Game Development

Creating highly detailed 3D game assets is important, but game engines have their limits. That's where texture baking comes in.

Texture baking offers the following benefits:

Performance Optimization: Reduces mesh complexity while maintaining visual depth.

Consistent Lighting: Ensures baked shadows and highlights look the same across all devices.

Detail Preservation: High-resolution details like scratches, bumps, and seams are captured in textures.

Whether you're working on 3D hard surface modeling or crafting a 3D vehicle model, texture baking is essential for achieving realism without overloading the game engine.

Tip 1: Clean and Organized UV Mapping is Key

Before you even begin baking, your UV maps must be clean and logically arranged. Overlapping UVs can cause artifacts in the baked texture.

For complex models like car 3D models or mechanical parts in hard surface modeling, consider using multiple UV sets—one for tiling materials and another for baked maps. Make sure there’s adequate padding between UV islands to prevent texture bleeding.

Pro Tip: Use 3D software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to pack your UVs efficiently and check for overlapping areas using color-coded UV overlays.

Tip 2: High-Poly to Low-Poly Preparation

The effectiveness of baking depends on how closely your low poly mesh matches your high poly counterpart. Ensure both models are perfectly aligned and occupy the same space in the 3D scene.

Keep the low poly mesh simple but smart—use edge loops and smoothing groups where necessary.

Tip 3: Leverage Cage Meshes for Better Bake Control

Using a cage mesh—an expanded version of the low poly model—helps guide raycasting during the baking process. This prevents projection errors such as ray misses or incorrect normals.

When working on 3D hard surface modeling, especially intricate models like a futuristic car 3D model, a cage mesh ensures that every bolt, seam, and groove is correctly baked into the textures.

Tip 4: Choose the Right Bake Maps

Different projects require different baked maps. 

Normal Maps: For surface details.

Ambient Occlusion Maps: For realistic shadowing.

For game-ready 3D game assets, exporting these maps to your game engine (like Unity or Unreal) will dramatically improve realism.

Tip 5: Bake in High Resolution, Then Downscale

For example, bake at 4K even if your final asset will use 2K or 1K textures. This helps preserve finer details and avoids pixelation when you scale down.

This approach is particularly useful when baking 3D game assets intended for AAA-quality 3D modeling games, where texture clarity adds to player immersion.

Tip 6: Pay Attention to Hard Edges and UV Seams

In Hard Surface Modeling, sharp edges and UV seams can cause baking errors like shading artifacts or visible seams in the normal map.

To avoid this:

Match UV seams with hard edges.

Split smoothing groups appropriately.

Proper edge and seam handling is especially critical in 3D vehicle modeling, where reflections and highlights must look flawless.

Tip 7: Use Anti-Aliasing and Dilation Settings

Nothing ruins a baked texture faster than jagged edges or visible seams. Most baking tools offer anti-aliasing and dilation (padding) settings—use them!

Anti-Aliasing smooths out jagged lines.

Dilation extends pixel colors beyond UV borders, preventing visible seams during mipmapping.

This is especially important for 3D game environments with large-scale props and scenery visible from multiple angles.

Tip 8: Test in Real-Time Engines Early

Always preview your baked textures in a real-time environment like Unity, Unreal Engine, or Marmoset Toolbag. What looks great in a 3D editor might fall flat in a game engine due to lighting differences or material misconfigurations.

Whether it’s a props 3D model or a massive 3D game environment, testing early allows you to catch issues like texture tiling, normal map inversions, or incorrect ambient occlusion.

Tip 9: Automate and Batch Bake When Possible

For larger projects involving multiple 3D game assets, automation can save hours. Most modern 3D software supports batch baking via scripting or plugins.

This is invaluable when building extensive 3D game environments with multiple modular assets that require consistent baking setups.

Tip 10: Post-Process Your Maps

Once baking is complete, touch up your textures in Photoshop or Substance Painter. This step adds polish to your 3D modeling games assets and ensures they look top-notch across all lighting conditions.

Final Thoughts

Texture baking isn’t just a technical step—it’s an art form that balances detail with performance. Whether you're focusing on 3D hard surface modeling, building a realistic car 3D model, or crafting scenery for 3D game environment, mastering texture baking will elevate the quality of your work.As the demand for high-quality 3D game assets continues to grow, so does the need for artists who understand how to bake textures the right way. Incorporate these tips into your workflow and watch your props 3D models come to life with stunning realism.

[kingstreetdental1]

Straight Smiles, Local Style: Discover Modern Orthodontics at King Street Dental, Newcastle

Newcastle, a city brimming with history and a vibrant modern spirit, deserves smiles that reflect its dynamism. If you're looking to enhance your smile with expert orthodontic care, look no further than King Street Dental. We're bringing the latest in orthodontics Newcastle, ensuring you achieve the confident, healthy smile you've always wanted.

Beyond Braces: The Evolving World of Orthodontics

Gone are the days of bulky, uncomfortable metal braces being the only option. Today, orthodontics has evolved significantly, offering a range of discreet and efficient treatments. At King Street Dental, we understand that every smile is unique. That's why we provide a personalized approach, tailoring our treatments to your specific needs and lifestyle.

What's New in Orthodontics at King Street Dental?

Invisalign®: Say goodbye to traditional wires and brackets! Invisalign® uses clear, custom-made aligners that are virtually invisible. This discreet option allows you to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. Perfect for adults and teens seeking a more aesthetic solution.

Advanced Braces Technology: Even traditional braces have seen significant advancements. Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and often made with lighter materials. We offer options like ceramic braces, which blend in with your natural tooth color, providing a less conspicuous appearance.

Accelerated Orthodontics: We understand that time is precious. We utilize techniques and technologies that can potentially shorten treatment times, allowing you to achieve your desired results faster.

Digital Imaging and Treatment Planning: At King Street Dental, we employ advanced digital imaging and 3D modeling to create precise treatment plans. This technology allows us to visualize your potential results and ensure optimal outcomes.

Why Choose King Street Dental for Your Orthodontic Needs?

Experienced and Caring Team: Our experienced team of dental professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional care in a comfortable and friendly environment.

Personalized Treatment Plans: We believe in a patient-centered approach. We'll work closely with you to understand your goals and create a customized treatment plan that fits your individual needs.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: King Street Dental is equipped with the latest technology to ensure you receive the highest quality orthodontic care.

Local and Trusted: We are a proud part of the Newcastle community, committed to providing accessible and reliable dental services.

Investing in Your Smile, Investing in Yourself

A straight, healthy smile can boost your confidence and improve your overall quality of life. Whether you're dealing with crooked teeth, overcrowding, or bite issues, our orthodontic treatments can help you achieve the smile you've always dreamed of.

Take the First Step Towards Your Dream Smile

If you're looking for expert orthodontics in Newcastle, schedule a consultation at King Street Dental. We'll assess your needs, discuss your options, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a confident and healthy smile.

[acceptedguy]

Blog Post 45: VR PROJECT: V-Inspiration 

In this blog, I will discuss the progression of the project, detailing the initial level layout and lighting setup. I will also outline what I plan to accomplish within the next three weeks. 

Drawing from Diverse Influences 

I have been fortunate to be among the select few who genuinely enjoy games from a wide range of genres, from action to strategy. This diverse gaming experience has helped me build a deep repertoire of references and design knowledge that continues to shape my professional work. 

Throughout my graduate art program, I’ve also developed the ability to admire and seek inspiration from the works of other artists, incorporating their ideas into my own creative process. Interestingly, my inspiration often stems from seemingly opposite ends of the spectrum—leading to the creation of distinctive and unique elements that help my work stand apart. 

About V Rising 

While the gameplay and mechanics are exceptional, what truly captured my attention was the game’s unique art style—a compelling blend of sketched textures and oil paint aesthetics. The vibrant color palette, combined with the gothic architectural design of various locations, creates a visually captivating experience that has become a constant source of inspiration for me. 

Base Building Mechanics 

One of the most intriguing mechanics in V Rising is the base-building system, which allows players to construct their own vampire castles—yes, plural. The system relies on modular, snappable assets to create the structural framework, but the interior design is left entirely to the player’s creativity. 

My personal castle was a three-story mansion featuring: 

A dungeon for my workers. 

A large interior courtyard for my plants. 

A lavish guest room with gold flooring for visitors. 

A magnificent throne room befitting a future Vampire King. 

This modular design not only enhances gameplay freedom but also reflects a carefully balanced mix of player agency and structured design—something I aim to replicate in my VR project. 

Linn Wilhelmsson – A Master of Gothic Atmosphere 

My research for this project led me to V Rising primarily because of its similarities to the dark, gothic atmosphere of Warhammer 40K. Both settings feature heavy use of grimdark aesthetics, and the blending of shadows with dramatic lighting is a defining feature in both worlds. 

This discovery led me to the work of Linn Wilhelmsson, the Environment Artist responsible for designing many of my favorite locations and assets in V Rising. Her ability to craft environments that evoke both awe and dread through clever lighting and texture work has been a game-changer for my approach. 

Wilhelmsson’s work stands out due to her exceptional handling of: 

Shadows and Ambient Occlusion: While implementing shadows in a vampire game might seem obvious, the way Wilhelmsson builds them into the very foundation of the game’s art style creates a genuine sense of fear of the light. 

Color Palette and Contrast: The restrained use of dull hues contrasted with sudden bursts of vibrant color is particularly effective. This carefully measured balance ensures that the foreground and background elements are visually distinct, creating a sense of depth and immersion. 

Applying Wilhelmsson’s Style to My Project 

Wilhelmsson’s work has influenced me in several key ways: 

I intend to incorporate her approach to lighting and shadow into my VR scene, especially since my project relies heavily on a creative light-baking system. 

Her color theory—balancing muted tones with vibrant accents—has inspired me to rethink how I differentiate key elements in my scene. 

I also plan to use some of V Rising’s architectural elements and environmental details as reference points for my own 3D models. 

Final Thoughts 

Discovering Wilhelmsson’s work has been incredibly motivating. Her mastery of environmental design reflects the level of polish and atmospheric depth I aim to achieve in my own project. 

As I progress with the VR project, I am confident that drawing from Wilhelmsson’s techniques—combined with the creative freedom of modular design—will allow me to create an immersive, gothic environment that captures the essence of both Warhammer 40K and V Rising. 

This is not just about refining my technical skills—it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with players through atmosphere, design, and narrative. 

RESOURCES USED:   

Seigneur, J. (2023). V Rising sortira d’early access au deuxième trimestre 2024. [online] Gamekult.com. Available at: https://www.gamekult.com/actualite/v-rising-sortira-d-early-access-au-deuxieme-trimestre-2024-3050856623.html [Accessed 23 Feb. 2025]. 

‌ ArtStation. (2025). Linn Wilhelmsson. [online] Available at: https://www.artstation.com/broddvar [Accessed 23 Feb. 2025]. 

Reddit.com. (2024). Reddit - Heart of the internet. [online] Available at: https://www.reddit.com/r/vrising/comments/1d3glem/loving_the_base_building_aspects_of_this_game_pve/ [Accessed 23 Feb. 2025]. 

[techit-rp]

The Evolution of Animation: From Traditional Hand-Drawn to AI-Generated Graphics

Animation has come a long way from its humble beginnings. What started as hand-drawn sketches painstakingly brought to life frame by frame has now evolved into hyper-realistic, AI-generated graphics that push the boundaries of creativity. With technology rapidly transforming the industry, aspiring animators must keep up with the latest tools and techniques. If you're looking to build a career in this dynamic field, enrolling in the best animation institute in Bengaluru can be a game-changer.

In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the evolution of animation, exploring its journey from traditional methods to AI-driven advancements.

The Early Days: Traditional Hand-Drawn Animation

The origins of animation date back to the early 20th century, with pioneers like Winsor McCay and Walt Disney leading the way. Classic hand-drawn animation, also known as cel animation, involved artists sketching each frame individually and layering them on transparent sheets called cels. These frames were then photographed in sequence to create movement.

Key Features of Traditional Animation:

Labor-intensive: Every movement was drawn manually, requiring meticulous attention to detail.

Frame-by-frame execution: Animators had to draw each frame separately to achieve smooth motion.

Classic aesthetic: Films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and The Lion King are testaments to the beauty of hand-drawn animation.

Despite its charm, traditional animation was expensive and time-consuming, paving the way for newer, more efficient techniques.

The Rise of 2D and 3D Computer Animation

With the advent of digital technology, animation underwent a significant transformation. The introduction of 2D digital animation eliminated the need for physical cels, allowing animators to create movements more efficiently using software like Adobe Flash and Toon Boom Harmony.

The 1990s saw a game-changer: 3D animation. Pixar’s Toy Story (1995) revolutionized the industry by showcasing how computer-generated imagery (CGI) could create realistic characters and environments. This marked the beginning of a new era where studios shifted from hand-drawn to digitally-rendered animation.

Key Features of 3D Animation:

Realistic depth and texture: Unlike flat 2D characters, 3D models have volume and lifelike textures.

Improved efficiency: Animators could manipulate models instead of redrawing every frame.

Widespread adoption: Today, 3D animation dominates industries like gaming, film, and virtual reality.

With this shift, the demand for skilled animators surged, making it essential for professionals to upskill at the best animation institute in Bengaluru to stay competitive.

Motion Capture and the Blend of Realism

A significant milestone in animation was the introduction of motion capture technology (MoCap). Films like Avatar and The Lord of the Rings used MoCap to record actors’ movements and translate them into realistic character animations.

Benefits of Motion Capture:

Natural movements: Reduces the robotic feel of CGI characters.

Time-saving: Captures complex motion sequences in real-time.

Better integration with live-action films: Enables seamless blending of CGI with real actors.

As realism became a priority, animators needed to master MoCap and VFX technologies, further emphasizing the importance of quality training from a reputed animation institute.

AI and Machine Learning in Animation: The Future is Here

The latest breakthrough in animation is AI-generated graphics. Machine learning algorithms can now analyze movements, replicate styles, and even generate entire scenes autonomously. AI animation tools, such as DeepMotion and NVIDIA’s GANverse3D, are making animation faster, cheaper, and more accessible.

How AI is Revolutionizing Animation:

Automated lip-syncing: AI tools can analyze speech and synchronize character lip movements.

Style transfer: AI can replicate artistic styles, allowing creators to experiment with different aesthetics.

Procedural animation: AI can generate realistic background characters, reducing manual labor.

Predictive animation: Machine learning can anticipate motion paths, making character movements more fluid.

While AI is a game-changer, it doesn’t replace human creativity. Instead, it serves as a powerful tool that animators must learn to harness effectively. The best animation institute in Bengaluru can help students stay ahead by teaching them both traditional skills and emerging AI-powered techniques.

Animation Beyond Entertainment: Expanding into New Industries

Animation is no longer confined to films and games. AI-driven animation is making significant impacts in fields such as:

Healthcare: 3D animated simulations assist in medical training and surgeries.

Education: Animated e-learning modules enhance student engagement.

Marketing: Brands use animated ads to capture audience attention.

Architecture: 3D visualizations help bring architectural concepts to life.

With such diverse applications, animation has become one of the most exciting career paths. Learning from an institute that offers hands-on training in the latest animation software and AI tools can give aspiring animators a competitive edge.

Conclusion: Where Do We Go from Here?

From hand-drawn classics to AI-driven hyper-realistic graphics, animation has evolved into a sophisticated art form. With technology advancing at an unprecedented rate, aspiring animators must stay updated with the latest trends. If you're looking to build a successful career in this field, consider enrolling in the best animation institute in Bengaluru, where you can learn from industry experts and master the tools that shape the future of animation.

[theofficialsiyauniverse-blog]

Human Rights Defence in South Africa: The Story of Siya Hlongwa

Mapping Life Direction and Intent

Education is more than a path to academic achievement; it’s a transformative opportunity to refine one’s skills, foster critical thinking, and cultivate a deeper sense of maturity and purpose. For me, education has been a powerful platform – a means to dream, to envision a world where possibilities are limitless, and to gain the knowledge and training needed to turn those dreams into reality. In my homeland, eMzansi, South Africa, we are still grappling with the profound legacy of apartheid. The apartheid system left deep scars across every aspect of our nation, designed intentionally to exclude and economically paralyze communities outside the white population. Non-white communities were forced into remote, overcrowded townships far from economic hubs, commercial centers, and social services. These “dormitory” settlements were deprived of basic amenities like quality educational facilities, local businesses, and even shopping centers, forcing residents to undertake long, arduous journeys simply to meet their essential needs.

Birth and Upbringing in Umlazi

I was born in eThekwini, previously known as Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (eMzansi). My early years were shaped under the care of my grandmother in Umlazi, a township initially designated during apartheid as a “Bantu stand.” These areas were designed to segregate people of color, cramming families into two-bedroom houses that could fit within an average white suburban lounge and dining room. Growing up here exposed me to authentic community leadership, often spearheaded by women in solidarity. These women sustained their family units while actively contributing to the wellbeing of their community.

Women as Community Pillars

Women and girls in Umlazi led households, and if unemployed, they created multiple informal businesses. They opened salons, sold goods, and hawked on street corners – anything to support their families. These women exemplified humility and strength, addressing issues such as poverty and illness in the community with urgency and compassion. Their actions reflected a spirit of Ubuntu that left a lasting impression on me.

Lessons in Ubuntu from My Grandmother

My grandmother, a nurse at King Edward Hospital, raised me as a single parent. She later became a matron and leveraged her position to provide healthcare to bedridden neighbors in Umlazi. I often accompanied her after work to deliver medicines and essentials. With any additional income, she would buy groceries for families in need, and I, along with friends, would deliver these supplies. Through her example, I internalized the principle of Ubuntu – not as a theoretical concept but as a way of life.

Educational Journey and Professional Development Studying Architecture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal

Attending the University of KwaZulu-Natal to study Architecture was transformative. Here, I trained rigorously in various design disciplines, including graphic, interior, industrial, and urban design. We explored African architecture and its diversity, honing skills in manual rendering techniques, model making, and using materials like balsa wood to create physical representations of architectural concepts.

This education came with personal sacrifices. My grandmother’s limited pension meant I often camped at university, sleeping on campus from Sunday through Friday. Instant porridge and noodles sustained me, and while I completed my degree in record time, I missed out on a formal graduation due to financial constraints.

Working in Architecture and Development

Over the past decade, I have contributed to designing government housing, hospitals, schools, stadiums, police stations, and correctional facilities. Through these projects, I became proficient in 3D rendering software, such as Revit, and AutoCAD for drafting and design development as well as physical models making of architectural and urban designs.

Pursuing Town and Regional Planning at Wits University

Earning a postgraduate diploma in Town and Regional Planning from Wits University allowed me to integrate my previous architectural training into urban planning solutions. I learned traffic engineering, urban design, stormwater management, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Our field studies took us from South Africa to Mozambique, focusing on creating urban frameworks for communities in crisis.

Master of Science in Development Planning

Completing my MSc in Development Planning at Wits solidified my understanding of urban development at a systemic level. I explored urban philosophy, diverse architectural movements, and conducted research that polished my academic writing and data analysis skills. This foundation led to contributions for international organizations like the UN, under my organization, the Global Development Consortium.

Social Development and Collaboration

Beyond academia, I extended my work into social engineering by partnering with institutions such as Wits University’s Transformation and Employment Equity Office and its Gender Equity Office. Through initiatives like the Safezones program, I facilitated social development focused on equity and safety. I am often invited to share on my 8 years of experience in diversity and inclusion policy making and leadership training as an expert locally and internationally where I reflect on the importance of transformation and gender equity while fostering disability rights access.

Conclusion: Embracing Ubuntu as a Lifelong Principle

Today, the principles of Ubuntu guide my perspective and actions. In a time when kindness is often exploited for social gain, I view compassion as a core value embedded in my DNA. My grandmother’s teachings echo strongly: the time spent on negativity is better invested in creating the future we desire.

The image below was captured at the UMP Unleashing Our Voices, Dismantling, Hetero-Normativity event in 2024 as the keynote speaker.

[maacsatara]

Stereoscopic 3D Conversion: Enhancing Visual Experience

Stereoscopic 3D conversion is a fascinating process that transforms two-dimensional (2D) images and footage into three-dimensional (3D) visuals. This technology has become increasingly popular in the film and gaming industries, providing audiences with a more immersive viewing experience. As a method of enhancing storytelling and visual aesthetics, stereoscopic 3D conversion has revolutionized how we perceive content. Those looking to delve deeper into this field can benefit greatly from training at the best VFX institute in Pune. This article delves into the fundamentals of stereoscopic 3D conversion, its process, applications, advantages, and challenges.

Understanding Stereoscopic 3D

Stereoscopic 3D relies on the principle of human binocular vision, which enables us to perceive depth through the slight differences in the images captured by each eye. When viewed through specialized glasses or screens, 3D content tricks the brain into interpreting the two images as a single three-dimensional scene. Stereoscopic 3D can be achieved through two main methods: filming with dual cameras and converting 2D images into 3D through post-production techniques.

The Stereoscopic 3D Conversion Process

1. Pre-Production Analysis:

   The conversion process begins with a thorough analysis of the original 2D footage. This includes understanding the composition, camera movements, and depth cues present in the scene. Analyzing the material helps determine the best approach for conversion and ensures that the final product maintains the integrity of the original work.

2. Depth Mapping:

   Depth mapping is a crucial step in the conversion process. In this phase, artists create a depth map for each frame, assigning depth values to various elements within the scene. This involves segmenting objects based on their distance from the viewer, with foreground elements assigned higher depth values and background elements assigned lower values. The depth map acts as a guide for generating the 3D effect.

3. Layer Separation:

   After creating the depth map, the next step involves separating the layers of the image. This means isolating foreground, midground, and background elements to allow for independent manipulation. By separating the layers, artists can more effectively position each element in 3D space.

4. 3D Model Creation:

   For complex scenes or objects, artists may create 3D models to represent the elements accurately. This step is especially important for animations or scenes requiring detailed depth perception. Using software tools, artists can sculpt and texture these models, ensuring they fit seamlessly into the converted scene.

5. Rendering:

   The rendering stage involves generating the final 3D images from the converted footage. Using the depth map and layered elements, artists create two distinct images—one for each eye—that will be combined to produce the 3D effect. Advanced rendering techniques, such as ray tracing or global illumination, can enhance the realism of the final output.

6. Post-Production Adjustments:

   Once the initial rendering is complete, the images undergo post-production adjustments. This may involve color correction, refining the depth effect, and ensuring that the 3D images align correctly. Fine-tuning these elements is critical to achieving a polished and immersive final product.

Applications of Stereoscopic 3D Conversion

Stereoscopic 3D conversion has found applications in various industries:

- Film and Television: Many films have been converted to 3D post-release, allowing studios to capitalize on the 3D craze without reshooting scenes. Classics like "Jurassic Park" and animated features like "The Lion King" have seen successful conversions, enhancing the viewing experience for audiences.

- Gaming: In the gaming industry, stereoscopic 3D conversion enhances gameplay by immersing players in richly detailed environments. This technology allows players to interact with their surroundings in a more realistic manner, adding to the overall enjoyment.

- Virtual Reality (VR): Stereoscopic 3D conversion is a foundational element of VR experiences. By creating lifelike 3D environments, developers can transport users into new worlds, fostering a sense of presence and immersion.

- Advertising and Marketing: Brands leverage stereoscopic 3D conversion to create captivating advertisements that stand out. Eye-catching 3D visuals can leave a lasting impression on consumers, increasing brand recognition.

Advantages of Stereoscopic 3D Conversion

1. Enhanced Immersion: One of the primary benefits of stereoscopic 3D conversion is the heightened sense of immersion it offers. Viewers feel as though they are part of the action, leading to a more engaging experience.

2. Increased Emotional Impact: 3D visuals can evoke stronger emotional responses. The depth and realism of the imagery allow audiences to connect more deeply with characters and stories.

3. Revitalizing Classic Content: Stereoscopic 3D conversion provides a way to breathe new life into classic films, making them relevant for modern audiences. This approach can introduce timeless stories to new generations.

Challenges of Stereoscopic 3D Conversion

While stereoscopic 3D conversion offers many benefits, it also presents challenges:

1. Cost and Time: The conversion process can be time-consuming and expensive, requiring skilled artists and advanced software. This can be a barrier for smaller studios or independent filmmakers.

2. Quality Control: Ensuring high-quality conversions is essential. Poorly executed conversions can result in discomfort for viewers, such as headaches or eye strain. This underscores the importance of skilled professionals in the conversion process.

3. Creative Limitations: Some creative decisions in the original 2D content may not translate well to 3D. Adapting certain scenes to work in three dimensions can be challenging, requiring innovative solutions.

Conclusion

Stereoscopic 3D conversion has transformed the way we experience visual media, enhancing storytelling and creating immersive environments. With its applications across various industries, this technology continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for creativity and innovation. As the demand for engaging content grows, understanding the intricacies of stereoscopic 3D conversion will remain essential for filmmakers, game developers, and content creators alike. Whether it's through education at a VFX institute in Pune, hands-on experience, or collaboration with skilled professionals, those interested in this field can play a significant role in shaping the future of visual storytelling.

[poecatherinek-g]

Research related to rat pirate project

All of these pieces of media feature or focus on animal characters.

Peter Rabbit (Beatrix Potter)

The characters in Peter Rabbit aren't anthropomorphic animals as they don't have any human features like arms and legs but instead they act more personified so they wear clothes and behave like humans do. I really like Beatrix Potter's character designs and illustration style as they have a hint of realism to them but that doesn't over shadow he own personal approach to drawing animals.

Robin Hood

All of the characters in this retelling of Robin Hood are anthropomorphic animals with each animal kind of reflecting the characters personality like Robin Hood is a fox because he's sly and cunning and the King John is a lion (despite him being quite cowardly). There are many interesting character designs in this film and I think the art style used for this film works really well with them.

Fantastic Mr Fox

This is another example of anthropomorphic characters in media. Because the movie is stop motion animation, the characters were made as models meaning their designs had to be physically possible to achieve in a 3 dimensional format. Despite the limitations modeling can make, all of the characters are uniquely designed with varying statures and features that were successfully translated into 3D.

Watership Down

This is one of the only piece of media out of the ones I've looked at were the animals, in this case rabbits, more or less act like how the do in the wild. Despite the fact that the animals speak in the movie and there are some human influences seen in the characters, throughout the whole story the rabbits exhibit behaviors they would have in the wild like living in and digging warrens (tunnels where rabbits live).

[fmp24np]

Forefront 7

An article on 80. lvl offered insight into the project of Nick Gaul. He was inspired by the "Masters of the Universe" character King Grayskull and aimed to bring the character to life using Unreal Engine and Maya. The artist collaborated with Chay Johansson, who handled CFX and simulation, to push their understanding of character creation and animation in Unreal Engine.

Starting with a generic MetaHuman model, the character was exported to Maya for rigging and then used in Unreal for motion testing and simulation. The character’s wardrobe and hair were simulated using a combination of tools like Ziva, nCloth, and nHair, with XGen used for hair grooming. For the facial rig, a MetaHuman face was created and then customized to match the unique features of King Grayskull using Wrap3 and Maya.

The facial motion was driven by the Live Link app, allowing the artist to capture and apply their own facial performance to the character. Once all animations were completed, the character and simulations were exported as USD and Alembic files for lighting and final setup in Unreal.

King Grayskull (Gaul, 2024b)

The creator also developed a method to create the character's dreaded hair, focusing on efficiency and control to avoid overloading Unreal Engine. The final scene was built quickly using Quixel Bridge assets, with custom elements created in ZBrush and textured in Substance 3D Painter.

I think, this project showcases a high level of skill, creativity, and technicality. The decision to use MetaHuman as a foundation and then customize it to fit King Grayskull's unique design is a smart move, leveraging existing tools while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in Unreal Engine. The collaboration with Chay Johansson adds another layer of depth, particularly in the complex simulations of hair and clothing, which are often challenging aspects of character creation.

Overall, this project reflects a solid blend of artistic vision and technical execution. It pushes the boundaries of what's achievable with current tools and workflows, particularly in Unreal Engine, and serves as a great example of how to bring a character to life in a way that's both visually stunning and technically possible.

Gaul, N. (2024a). Character Production in Unreal Engine’s MetaHuman & XGen. Available at: https://80.lv/articles/character-production-in-unreal-engine-s-metahuman-xgen/.

Gaul, N. (2024b). King Grayskull. Available at: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/49rArq.

[kingstreetdental1]

Straighten Your Smile with Invisalign in Newcastle at King Street Dental

Dreaming of a straighter, more confident smile? Invisalign may be the perfect solution for you. At King Street Dental in Newcastle, we offer discreet and comfortable Invisalign Newcastle treatment to help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a revolutionary system that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for both adults and teenagers.

Benefits of Choosing Invisalign:

Comfort: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic, making them comfortable to wear and minimizing irritation.

Convenience: The removable aligners allow you to eat and drink whatever you want, and they're easy to clean.

Discreet: The clear aligners are virtually invisible, so you can smile confidently throughout your treatment.

Predictable Results: Using advanced 3D technology, we can show you a preview of your expected results before you even start treatment.

The Invisalign Process at King Street Dental:

Consultation: During your initial consultation, we'll assess your teeth and discuss your treatment goals. We'll also take impressions of your teeth to create a 3D model.

Treatment Planning: Using the 3D model, we'll develop a customized treatment plan that outlines the number of aligners you'll need and the estimated duration of treatment.

Aligner Delivery: You'll receive your first set of aligners and instructions on how to wear and care for them.

Regular Check-ups: You'll return to our practice for regular check-ups to monitor your progress and receive new sets of aligners.

Why Choose King Street Dental?

Experienced Team: Our team of experienced dentists and orthodontists are highly skilled in Invisalign treatment.

Personalized Care: We'll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

Comfortable and Convenient: We offer a relaxed and welcoming environment for all our patients.

Ready to Learn More?

If you're interested in learning more about Invisalign in Newcastle, please contact King Street Dental today to schedule a consultation. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions and help you determine if Invisalign is the right choice for you.  

[onlinecompanynews]

Saudi Arabia sees nearly 50% surge in investment licenses in Q2 amid rising investor confidence - Journal Today Web https://www.merchant-business.com/saudi-arabia-sees-nearly-50-surge-in-investment-licenses-in-q2-amid-rising-investor-confidence/?feed_id=156234&_unique_id=66b15e33eee7f RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has made sign... BLOGGER - #GLOBAL RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in sustainability by harnessing technology and forging strategic partnerships, completing 13 successful projects across 16 public and private entities, according to a recent report. The Kingdom’s Communications, Space, and Technology Commission unveiled these successes, showcasing their impact on environmental, economic, and social sustainability. In its latest Digital and Space Sustainability report, the commission highlighted several technological advancements, including Aqua-Fi’s bi-directional lasers. Led by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, this project enables high-speed, reliable communication between underwater devices. The report revealed that Aqua-Fi achieved data rates of 2.11 megabits per second over 20 meters, facilitating real-time data transmission for ocean monitoring related to aquaculture, energy, environmental concerns, and security. Another key project featured in the report involves the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology and Taqnia Space. This initiative uses satellite imagery and field validations to compile comprehensive agricultural data for the Kingdom. By employing geospatial technologies and remote sensing, the project saves 9 billion cubic meters of groundwater in sedimentary shelf areas, catalogs 40,000 agricultural activities, and surveys 400,000 agricultural registries across Saudi Arabia. Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is committed to harnessing technology, innovation, and science to empower people, safeguard the planet, and shape new frontiers for all. We believe in the pivotal role of green technologies and sustainability efforts to achieve prosperity across all economic sectors.” He added: “Today, the Kingdom is leading initiatives that transcend borders to help countries adopt the most effective solutions to shape a more sustainable future for all.” Sustainability is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The Kingdom’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 highlights its proactive stance against climate change, integrating environmental, social, and governance principles into its societal and economic frameworks. The report also spotlighted Saudi-based Optimal PV’s project, which automates solar rooftop system design using advanced algorithms and machine learning. This innovation enhances solar power installations by improving efficiency, accuracy, and scalability, achieving a 40 percent increase in profitability and an 80 percent reduction in design costs. NanoPalm’s project, using machine learning and deeptech nanotechnology, was another highlight. This technology aims to accelerate pharmaceutical research and development, significantly reducing the average research and development cost from $100 million to $4.54 billion and increasing efficacy from 10 percent to 85 percent. King Faisal Hospital and Research Center’s use of 3D printing technology to improve patient care was also featured. This technology has reduced surgical times by up to 30 percent, creating 5,158 virtual models and 1,168 printed models for precise diagnosis and surgical planning. The launch of SDM’s SAARIA, the Middle East’s first AI technology for diagnosing chronic diseases, was noted as a significant achievement. SAARIA, with 97 percent accuracy, is designed for early detection of diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to irreversible blindness. This initiative aims to protect 7 million people with diabetes in the Kingdom. The report underscored Saudi Arabia’s ongoing

investment in digital infrastructure as a key factor in its emergence as a global leader in digital sustainability. Supported by a comprehensive strategy, visionary leadership, and a forward-looking regulatory framework, the Kingdom is well-positioned to reduce its environmental footprint. In addition to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s ICT strategy, which aims to boost emerging technologies by 50 percent, CST is preparing to address future challenges with enhanced resilience. The report also highlighted a focus on advancing the space sector to foster technological innovation and sustainability.“RIYADH: Saudi Arabia issued 2,728 investment licenses in the second quarter of this year, a 49.6 percent increase year on year, underscoring its growing appeal as a business destination.  The…” http://109.70.148.72/~merchant29/6network/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15659655525_e6cfc22b56_o.jpg #GLOBAL - BLOGGER RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in sustainability by harnessing technology and forging strategic partnerships, completing 13 successful projects across 16 public and private entities, according to a recent report. The Kingdom’s Communications, Space, and Technology Commission unveiled these successes, showcasing their impact on environmental, economic, and social sustainability. In its latest Digital and … Read More

[maacsatara]

Advanced Animation Techniques and Workflows

Animation has evolved significantly, with technology enabling animators to create increasingly realistic and dynamic animations. From traditional hand-drawn 2D animation to cutting-edge 3D and CGI, mastering advanced techniques and workflows is essential for aspiring animators. Studying at the best animation institute in Pune provides a solid foundation for these skills, allowing professionals to push creative boundaries while ensuring efficient production.

#### Key Advanced Animation Techniques

1. **Motion Capture (Mocap)**  

   Motion capture records live actors' movements to create lifelike animations for films and video games. Actors wear suits with sensors that track their movements, which are then mapped to digital characters. While this technique achieves realism, it requires manual tweaking for character style and personality. Recent advancements in facial motion capture have enhanced emotional expression, evident in films like *Avatar* and *The Lion King (2019)*.

2. **Rigging and Skinning**  

   Rigging involves creating a skeleton for 3D characters, defining how they move, while skinning attaches the character’s mesh to the rig. This process ensures realistic deformation during animation. Advanced rigging techniques include custom controls for detailed movement, especially for facial animations, crucial for conveying emotions.

3. **Procedural Animation**  

   Procedural animation uses algorithms to automatically generate motion, making it ideal for complex simulations like crowds or natural phenomena. This technique allows for real-time interactions in video games and can automate tasks like cloth dynamics or destruction effects, enabling stunning visuals with less manual input.

4. **Blending Animation Techniques**  

   Modern workflows often blend various animation techniques to achieve desired results. For instance, *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse* combined traditional 2D techniques with 3D CGI to create a unique aesthetic, showcasing the benefits of integrating different styles.

5. **Facial Animation and Lip Syncing**  

   Facial animation is crucial for dialogue and emotional depth. Animators use blend shapes for expressions and lip syncing, often enhanced by facial motion capture technology, as seen in *Avatar* and *The Last of Us*.

#### Streamlined Workflows in Modern Animation

Efficient animation production depends on structured workflows. Modern animation pipelines focus on collaboration, automation, and iterative development:

1. **Pre-Visualization (Previs)**  

   Previs creates rough versions of scenes to visualize sequences, test angles, and make early adjustments, saving time and reducing costly reworks.

2. **Asset Management and Version Control**  

   A robust asset management system ensures teams work with the latest models and animations. Tools like Shotgun and FTrack facilitate tracking and sharing assets.

3. **Automation and Procedural Tools**  

   Automation reduces manual labor, allowing animators to focus on creativity. Procedural tools can handle repetitive tasks, streamlining production.

4. **Real-Time Feedback and Iteration**  

   Real-time rendering engines like Unreal Engine allow instant feedback and collaboration, enabling adjustments on the fly for improved efficiency.

5. **Post-Production and Visual Effects Integration**  

   Seamless integration of animated and live-action elements is vital. Post-production workflows accommodate collaboration between animators and VFX teams, ensuring a polished final product.

#### Conclusion

The animation industry is constantly innovating, with advanced techniques and workflows enhancing creativity and realism. For students at an animation academy in Pune, mastering these evolving skills is crucial for competitiveness. By streamlining workflows and adopting new technologies, studios can efficiently bring ambitious projects to life while maintaining high quality. As animation continues to grow, mastering these advanced techniques will be key for any animator aspiring to excel in the industry.

[brainydxtechnologies]

Unleashing the Power of 2D and 3D in Motion Graphics

Motion graphics can make still images come alive and turn them into interesting stories and interactive experiences. But deciding between 2D and 3D animation can be tricky.

2D and 3D each have their own strengths and visual styles. The best choice depends on what you want to achieve with your project.

This blog post will explain the differences between 2D and 3D animation in motion graphics. It will help you decide which one is right for you by discussing what makes them different, their pros and cons, and the types of projects where each one works best.

A World in Two Dimensions: Exploring 2D Animation

Ever wonder how cartoons come to life? That's 2D animation! It's like magic for pictures. Artists create a bunch of drawings, one slightly different from the next. When these drawings are shown quickly one after another, it makes the pictures seem like they're moving!

Remember your favorite childhood cartoons? Those are all examples of 2D animation. It can be hand-drawn, like the classic Disney movie "The Lion King," or created on computers, like the popular show "Avatar: The Last Airbender."

How it Works: Think of it like a flip book - those things with pages that show a little change each time you flip. 2D animation is like a super cool flip book that comes to life on a screen.

Today, computers help make this process easier. Programs like Adobe Animate let artists draw things on the computer and then move them a little bit in each picture, creating the illusion of movement.

Stepping into the Third Dimension: Unveiling 3D Animation

Betweeb 2D and 3D, 3D animation delves into the world of virtual spaces. It involves creating 3D models of characters, objects, and environments, which are then animated within a computer software program. This allows for realistic visuals and dynamic camera movements. Think of the breathtaking landscapes of "Avatar" or the heart-stopping action sequences in "The Incredibles."

How it Works:

3D animation utilizes specialized software like Maya or Blender. Artists create 3D models, define virtual skeletons for movement (rigging), and apply textures and lighting to bring the models to life within a digital environment.

Choosing the Right Tool for the Job: When to Use 2D and 3D Animation

Here's a breakdown to help you decide between 2D and 3D animation styles, and which animation aligns best with your project:

The Power of Fusion: Combining 2D and 3D Animation

The animation landscape isn't limited to a strict 2D and 3D dichotomy. The beauty lies in the power of combining these two techniques to achieve a truly unique and impactful visual experience. Here's how:

The Art of 2D and 3D Motion Graphics: Beyond Style

While the choice between 2D and 3D animation is crucial, it's just one piece of the motion graphics puzzle. Here are some additional factors to consider for a successful project:

Conclusion: The Perfect Blend Awaits

The world of motion graphics is a playground of creativity. By understanding the strengths and limitations of 2D and 3D animation, along with a focus on strong storytelling and design principles, you can craft impactful visuals that captivate your audience. So, unleash your imagination, explore the possibilities, and bring your vision to life with 2D and 3D animation, one frame at a time.