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electronalytics · 2 years ago

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Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market Research Report outlook by 17-2032

Overview: The Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market is a segment of the cooling and thermal management industry that focuses on the use of immersion cooling systems for electronic components and data centers. Single-phase immersion cooling systems utilize a dielectric fluid to submerge electronic devices for efficient heat dissipation. The global immersion cooling market size was valued at USD 248.00 million in 2021. It is projected to reach USD 3,844.05 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 35.6% during the forecast period (2022–2030).

The Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for efficient cooling solutions in high-performance computing (HPC), data centers, and other electronic applications. Single-phase immersion cooling offers advantages such as improved thermal management, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced reliability.

Trends and Growth Drivers:

High-Performance Computing (HPC): The demand for HPC applications, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics, has been rapidly growing. Single-phase immersion cooling systems provide a highly effective solution for cooling the heat generated by these high-density computing systems.

Data Center Optimization: Data centers require efficient cooling solutions to manage the escalating heat generated by servers and networking equipment. Immersion cooling systems offer a compelling alternative to traditional air or liquid cooling methods, enabling higher power densities and reducing energy consumption.

Green Data Centers: The focus on energy efficiency and sustainability has led to the emergence of green data centers. Single-phase immersion cooling systems provide an environmentally friendly solution by minimizing energy usage, reducing the need for air conditioning, and enabling the reuse or recycling of heat generated by electronic devices.

Increasing Power Density: As electronic devices continue to shrink in size while increasing in computational power, the heat density within these devices is also rising. Single-phase immersion cooling systems offer efficient heat dissipation capabilities, allowing for higher power densities in compact electronic components.

Industry Analysis: The Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market is relatively nascent but growing rapidly, with both established players and new entrants vying for market share. Key industry participants offer immersion cooling solutions that include cooling modules, heat exchangers, fluid management systems, and associated services.

The market is characterized by ongoing innovations and technological advancements in immersion cooling techniques, including the development of advanced dielectric fluids and optimized system designs. Collaboration between immersion cooling solution providers, data center operators, and electronic component manufacturers is also contributing to market growth.

Demand Outlook: The demand for single-phase immersion cooling systems is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. Factors such as the increasing adoption of HPC applications, the need for efficient cooling solutions in data centers, and the focus on energy efficiency drive the demand for immersion cooling technology.

Furthermore, the rising awareness of sustainability and environmental impact is likely to bolster the demand for green data center solutions, including single-phase immersion cooling. The continuous miniaturization and increased power density of electronic components further fuel the need for efficient cooling technologies.

In conclusion, the Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for efficient cooling solutions in HPC, data centers, and electronic applications. Technological advancements, green data center initiatives, and the trend toward higher power density contribute to the market's growth potential.

The Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market offers several key benefits, which contribute to its growing popularity and adoption:

Improved Cooling Efficiency

Space Saving

Energy Efficiency

Increased Hardware Density

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Silent Operation

Enhanced Reliability

Dielectric Fluid Safety

Scalability

Future-Proofing

Here are some potential aspects of the Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market outlook:

Growing Adoption in Data Centers: Single-phase immersion cooling systems have gained popularity in data centers due to their improved cooling efficiency, energy savings, and space-saving capabilities. As data centers continue to expand to accommodate increasing data storage and processing demands, the adoption of immersion cooling is likely to grow further.

High-Performance Computing (HPC) Applications: High-performance computing environments, such as those used in artificial intelligence, scientific research, and financial modeling, generate substantial heat. Immersion cooling has proven to be an effective solution for these applications, and as the demand for HPC continues to rise, so will the adoption of immersion cooling systems.

Green Data Center Initiatives: With a greater emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, the data center industry is seeking greener solutions to reduce its environmental impact. Single-phase immersion cooling aligns with these initiatives by offering significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, which could drive its adoption further.

Technology Advancements: As immersion cooling technology matures, it is likely to become more refined and cost-effective. Innovations in dielectric fluids, heat transfer techniques, and system designs might improve the overall performance and affordability of immersion cooling solutions.

Increased Investment and Market Competition: As the market potential becomes more evident, there might be an influx of investments from companies seeking to capitalize on the growing demand for single-phase immersion cooling systems. This could lead to increased market competition and potentially further drive down costs for consumers.

Challenges and Regulations: While immersion cooling has many benefits, there might be challenges related to managing potential leaks, disposal of cooling fluids, and system maintenance. Addressing these challenges and adhering to environmental regulations will be essential for the long-term viability of the technology.

Adoption in Niche Industries: Besides data centers and HPC, single-phase immersion cooling could find applications in niche industries where traditional cooling methods face limitations. These industries might include aerospace, automotive, and military sectors.

We recommend referring our Stringent datalytics firm, industry publications, and websites that specialize in providing market reports. These sources often offer comprehensive analysis, market trends, growth forecasts, competitive landscape, and other valuable insights into this market.

By visiting our website or contacting us directly, you can explore the availability of specific reports related to this market. These reports often require a purchase or subscription, but we provide comprehensive and in-depth information that can be valuable for businesses, investors, and individuals interested in this market.

“Remember to look for recent reports to ensure you have the most current and relevant information.”

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Market Segmentations:

Global Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market: By Company

• Submer

• GRC

• Fujitsu

• Asperitas

• DCX The Liquid Cooling Company

• TMGcore

• Aliyun

Global Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market: By Type

• Less than 100 KW

• 100-200 KW

• Great than 200 KW

Global Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market: By Application

• Data Center

• High Performance Computing

• Edge Application

• Others

Global Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market: Regional Analysis

All the regional segmentation has been studied based on recent and future trends, and the market is forecasted throughout the prediction period. The countries covered in the regional analysis of the Global Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System market report are U.S., Canada, and Mexico in North America, Germany, France, U.K., Russia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and Rest of Europe in Europe, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific (APAC) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC), Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA) as a part of Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Argentina, Brazil, and Rest of South America as part of South America.

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Reasons to Purchase Single-Phase Immersion Cooling System Market Report::

Comprehensive Insights: Market research reports provide in-depth and comprehensive insights into the ULSFO market. They typically cover various aspects such as market size, growth trends, competitive landscape, regulatory environment, technological developments, and consumer behavior. These reports offer a holistic view of the market, saving time and effort in gathering information from multiple sources.

Data and Statistics: Market research reports often include reliable and up-to-date data and statistics related to the ULSFO market. This data can help in analyzing market trends, understanding demand and supply dynamics, and making informed business decisions. Reports may include historical data, current market figures, and future projections, allowing businesses to assess market opportunities and potential risks.

Market Segmentation and Targeting: Market research reports often provide segmentation analysis, which helps identify different market segments based on factors such as vessel type, application, end-users, and geography. This information assists businesses in targeting specific customer segments and tailoring their marketing and business strategies accordingly.

Competitive Analysis: Market research reports typically include a competitive analysis section that identifies key players in the ULSFO market and evaluates their market share, strategies, and product offerings. This information helps businesses understand the competitive landscape, benchmark their performance against competitors, and identify areas for differentiation and growth.

Market Trends and Forecast: Market research reports provide insights into current market trends and future forecasts, enabling businesses to anticipate changes in the ULSFO market. This information is valuable for strategic planning, product development, investment decisions, and identifying emerging opportunities or potential threats in the market.

Decision-Making Support: Market research reports serve as a valuable tool in decision-making processes. The comprehensive insights, data, and analysis provided in the reports help businesses make informed decisions regarding market entry, expansion, product development, pricing, and marketing strategies. Reports can minimize risks and uncertainties by providing a solid foundation of market intelligence.

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#single-phase immersion cooling system #immersion cooling #data center cooling #liquid cooling #server cooling #high-performance computing (HPC) cooling #energy-efficient

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ecrivainsolitaire · 5 months ago

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A summary of the Chinese AI situation, for the uninitiated.

These are scores on different tests that are designed to see how accurate a Large Language Model is in different areas of knowledge. As you know, OpenAI is partners with Microsoft, so these are the scores for ChatGPT and Copilot. DeepSeek is the Chinese model that got released a week ago. The rest are open source models, which means everyone is free to use them as they please, including the average Tumblr user. You can run them from the servers of the companies that made them for a subscription, or you can download them to install locally on your own computer. However, the computer requirements so far are so high that only a few people currently have the machines at home required to run it.

Yes, this is why AI uses so much electricity. As with any technology, the early models are highly inefficient. Think how a Ford T needed a long chimney to get rid of a ton of black smoke, which was unused petrol. Over the next hundred years combustion engines have become much more efficient, but they still waste a lot of energy, which is why we need to move towards renewable electricity and sustainable battery technology. But that's a topic for another day.

As you can see from the scores, are around the same accuracy. These tests are in constant evolution as well: as soon as they start becoming obsolete, new ones are released to adjust for a more complicated benchmark. The new models are trained using different machine learning techniques, and in theory, the goal is to make them faster and more efficient so they can operate with less power, much like modern cars use way less energy and produce far less pollution than the Ford T.

However, computing power requirements kept scaling up, so you're either tied to the subscription or forced to pay for a latest gen PC, which is why NVIDIA, AMD, Intel and all the other chip companies were investing hard on much more powerful GPUs and NPUs. For now all we need to know about those is that they're expensive, use a lot of electricity, and are required to operate the bots at superhuman speed (literally, all those clickbait posts about how AI was secretly 150 Indian men in a trenchcoat were nonsense).

Because the chip companies have been working hard on making big, bulky, powerful chips with massive fans that are up to the task, their stock value was skyrocketing, and because of that, everyone started to use AI as a marketing trend. See, marketing people are not smart, and they don't understand computers. Furthermore, marketing people think you're stupid, and because of their biased frame of reference, they think you're two snores short of brain-dead. The entire point of their existence is to turn tall tales into capital. So they don't know or care about what AI is or what it's useful for. They just saw Number Go Up for the AI companies and decided "AI is a magic cow we can milk forever". Sometimes it's not even AI, they just use old software and rebrand it, much like convection ovens became air fryers.

Well, now we're up to date. So what did DepSeek release that did a 9/11 on NVIDIA stock prices and popped the AI bubble?

Oh, I would not want to be an OpenAI investor right now either. A token is basically one Unicode character (it's more complicated than that but you can google that on your own time). That cost means you could input the entire works of Stephen King for under a dollar. Yes, including electricity costs. DeepSeek has jumped from a Ford T to a Subaru in terms of pollution and water use.

The issue here is not only input cost, though; all that data needs to be available live, in the RAM; this is why you need powerful, expensive chips in order to-

Holy shit.

I'm not going to detail all the numbers but I'm going to focus on the chip required: an RTX 3090. This is a gaming GPU that came out as the top of the line, the stuff South Korean LoL players buy…

Or they did, in September 2020. We're currently two generations ahead, on the RTX 5090.

What this is telling all those people who just sold their high-end gaming rig to be able to afford a machine that can run the latest ChatGPT locally, is that the person who bought it from them can run something basically just as powerful on their old one.

Which means that all those GPUs and NPUs that are being made, and all those deals Microsoft signed to have control of the AI market, have just lost a lot of their pulling power.

Well, I mean, the ChatGPT subscription is 20 bucks a month, surely the Chinese are charging a fortune for-

Oh. So it's free for everyone and you can use it or modify it however you want, no subscription, no unpayable electric bill, no handing Microsoft all of your private data, you can just run it on a relatively inexpensive PC. You could probably even run it on a phone in a couple years.

Oh, if only China had massive phone manufacturers that have a foot in the market everywhere except the US because the president had a tantrum eight years ago.

So… yeah, China just destabilised the global economy with a torrent file.

#valid ai criticism #ai #llms #DeepSeek #ai bubble #ChatGPT #google gemini #claude ai #this is gonna be the dotcom bubble again #hope you don't have stock on anything tech related #computer literacy #tech literacy

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mysteryshoptls · 6 months ago

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SSR Idia Shroud - Room Relaxation Vignette

"Happy Birthday"

[Mister S's Mystery Shop]

Idia: …Hrrm, I can't find the 15th Anniversary special Star Rogue diorama.

Idia: I told Sam-shi I'd look for it myself, so I wouldn't have to deal with him talking to me, but… There's way too much stuff here to look through!

Idia: And I came all this way 'cause I wasn't fast enough to get it online.

Idia: I can't go back empty-handed after telling Ortho that there's no way I wouldn't get my hands on one as a number one fanboy!

Idia: Oho? This shelf over here has a ton of specialty figures and other hobby stuff… EEHHHH!?

[products fall of shelf]

Idia: OUCH! OW OW OW!!

Jack: Woah!? That was close! Some of the falling goods almost scraped by my nose…

Idia: I-I-I didn't do anything! They just fell off on their own since they were thrown haphazardly onto the shelf!!

[Idia runs away]

Jack: Huh? No one said it was your fault or nothin'…

Jack: …What the, he's already gone! Idia-senpai… He looks slow and frail, but is he secretly actually pretty nimble?

Jack: Oh, man, and he just left everything on the ground. Ugh, I guess I'll have to…

Jack: …Hm? Isn't this box the one Ortho mentioned today…?

[Ignihyde Dorm – Idia's Room]

Idia: …Haah. And in the end, I just ran away… Without a Star Rogue diorama…

Idia: It's all because they sold it first-come-first-serve, instead of pre-order... Not my fault what happened earlier…

Idia: If I went back now, that terrifying beast of a man from Savanaclaw might still be there. I'll try again tomorrow…

Idia: K. Now that I've decide that, time to get all the annoying dorm work stuff done!

Idia: Uhhh, so, the notices I have to give the other dorm students are… Oh, right, the equipment replacement schedule, and the AC inspection time.

Idia: Just in case, I'll add "Important", "Good News", "Response Required", and "Read Immediately" to the subject… K, sent.

Idia: It sure is hard work bein' a Housewarden. Thought it's not that bad since I implemented a chat app once I became Housewarden.

Idia: Efficiency above all! No face-to-face meetings! Conserving my own energy is the best way to do things!

Idia: Finished all my Housewarden tasks, and even took a shower, as annoying as it is. I'm awesome. I'd give myself 100,000,000 points out of 100.

Idia: Nice, so… It's finally me time!

[Ignihyde Dorm – Idia's Room]

Idia: Ah, I got a message from Ortho… He's spending the night in the first year rooms, huh.

Idia: Then, I guess I can just game all night by myself! Fheeheehee!

[beep, beep!]

Idia: Hm…? What's with this reminder…? Man, right when I was getting into things.

「Survey on Quality of Life Improvements for the Student Body」

Idia: Ugh.. Right, that was a thing. You don't really see paper surveys anymore. Let me think, it should be around… Yep, here it is.

Idia: Uhhh, so what, they want to know what I'd like improved? I mean, kinda late to ask a third-year, isn't it? I can't really think of anything.

Idia: Sides, there were stuff I used to not like about the dorm, but I already made upgrades to all that stuff.

Idia: We soundproofed the walls and floors, installed commercial-grade AC, and the dorm-wide servers are of my own technical specs.

Idia: To live the perfect shut-in life, we can't not have walls that can't take loud shouting, or ACs that can't keep overclocked PCs cool, so～

Idia: …Ah, wait a mo'. I just thought of one issue I got. "There's not enough electrical outlets"!!

Idia: This kinda stuff needed specialized qualifications to do, so it's not like I coulda bought the parts and DIY it.

Idia: I'm using a power strip for now 'cause I have to, but I hate how the wiring just looks like spaghetti. Even a master wiring tech like myself can't stand a sight like that!

Idia: Oh, I just thought of one more thing. "I want to have the low-capacity breaker replaced"!

Idia: It's so weak that the breaker flips just 'cause I try to have 4 computers, the server, a 3D printer, microwave, and electric kettle all plugged in at once!

Idia: I mean, I'd set up a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) system in case of emergencies, so my computers and server was fine, but...

Idia: Because of that, my plan to add an AC unit and a refrigerator in my room went out the window. That was a nightmare. Oh, and…

Idia: …Dyehehe. I said I couldn't really think of any, but it's hilarious how the ideas keep flowin' out.

Idia: I'll attach some of the numbers we have on the cost of estimated damages by having Ignihyde students continue to use those useless breakers.

Idia: The Headmage is pretty much influenced by profits, so. If I explain how it's necessary to get better equipment, then he might listen to improvement suggestions.

Idia: Nice, mission clear. Time to watch some new anime episodes while grinding levels in my gams.

Idia: See, nothing beats watching anime while mindlessly leveling… Ooh, I pulled a rare one!

Idia: I thought I'd be bored of this anime 3 episodes in, too, but it's actually starting to get interesting!

Idia: Well, now that the mood's getting good, I just gotta let loose! TIME FOR A SNACK PARTY!!

Idia: …Huh? I'm out of my favorite snack. Ugh, I completely forgot to re-order some more when I ate all of it last time.

Idia: If only the Mystery Shop had 24-hour delivery service�� Maybe I should add that to the survey?

Idia: Nah, nevermind, I should just focus on the anime. NOTHING'S GONNA BRING ME DOWN!

Idia: Woah, the animation's clean…! They're all movin' so smoothly… Maybe the production team changed this week?

Idia: I'm getting pretty into the main theme song, too! Heehee, fheeheehee…!

[Ignihyde Dorm – Idia's Room]

Idia: Urrghnn… Aaarghh…

[～♪]

Idia: Gah! Urgh, what's that noise…? What time is it right now…?

Idia: Urk! Everything's so bright, I can't see anything… How's it morning already…? Wait, before that, where'd that noise come from…!?

Idia: Huh…? Ortho…? Weren't you spending the night with the other first years…? Oh wait, is this just a message…?

Idia: "HAPPY BIRTHDAY"…? Oh, right, today's my birthday! I completely forgot, since there wasn't anything to look forward to…

Idia: I'll just write back… Thanks, Ortho.

Idia: Urp…! But now I feel a bit sick…! And my whole body hurts…!

Idia: I fell asleep running my games, and I'm just stiff all over. Can't I just go move to my bed and go back to sleep?

Idia: Nah, if I end up crashing and forget to login and get all the birthday login voice lines, I'll never recover. Gotta wash my face or something…

Idia: Woah, I can see how crazy my bedhead is reflected in the monitor! I think this every time, but why does my hair end up this bad whenever I fall asleep at my desk?

Idia: Kinda looks punk, but that's totally a different vibe from my usual, lawl.

Idia: Meh, my hair can be whatever. Not like anyone looks at me, anyway.

Idia: It's a pain to go all the way to the washroom… I'll just use magic like I normally do. I'll chill the water, then.

[splash!]

Idia: WHEEEEW, THAT COLD WATER HITS JUST RIGHT!!

Idia: Normally, I'd just leave it here, but… My face feels so dry after pulling that all-nighter.

Idia: But I'm all good. I'm a functioning nerd, so I know how to fix it.

Idia: Ta-da～ I don't really get it, but here I go with the number one most popular all-in-one cream～

Idia: Putting on lotion and moisturizer one at a time is a waste of time. Just plap it on, and ta-da, done. Next is my clothes…

Idia: Nah, nevermind, I'm not gonna change. Now all I have to do is to jump into all my games and collect the birthday login voice lines. Fheeheehee.

Idia: Perf, I've gotten them all for now. …Huh? There's another message from Ortho…

Idia: …HUH!? HE GOT THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL STAR ROGUE DIORAMA!? SERIOUSLY!?

Idia: "I was planning on picking it up in the Mystery Shop after classes, but if you can't wait, you can go pick it up whenever"…?

Idia: Well, I gotta go right now, then! That means I have to finish getting ready.

Idia: I don't really wanna go outside, but… I can't keep my poor Star Rogue waiting! Hyah!

[Idia magics hair and clothes]

Idia: K, bedhead fixed. And now, onwards, to the Mystery Shop!!

[Main Street]

Idia: Fheeheehee…! Look at this craftsmanship…! It looks just like the scene I imagined as a kid!

Idia: Ortho… Did you look for this Star Rogue diorama because you knew I was sad I didn't get it?

Idia: Wheew～ The best thing in the world is a little brother who thinks the world of his older brother, and is really good at search functions～!

Jack: Hm? Is that… Idia-senpai? Good morning.

Idia: GYAAAAAA!? J-Jack-shi…? Why are we making contact two days in a row…?

Jack: I mean, it's not really anything, but… I heard from Ortho yesterday that today was your birthday, is all.

[Idia runs away]

Jack: Happy Birthday. So, uh, did you get what you were looking…

Jack: Huh, he's already gone! Ugh, I don't get him at all.

Requested by @farfalla049.

#twisted wonderland #twst #idia shroud #jack howl #twst idia #twst jack #twst translation #twst birthday #mention: ortho #mention: crowley

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artsninspo · 8 months ago

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FORGIVELESS - X - GOT A COUPLE THAT'S OUTSIDE, THEY KILL ABOUT ME THOUGH 🪦

« previous part

➨ rio's library - good girl nbc

「 ✦ full library & archive ✦ 」

MOODBOARD 🖼️

Pairing: Rio (Good Girls) X Reader

Word Count: ~4.3K

Warning: Same as all the others for the most part, mentions of violence and un-aliving someone.

Summary: Picking up where we left off. Rio and the Reader try to establish a new normal until the reader gets a call regarding James. Having had his fill of the back and forth Rio finally makes himself known to James and puts an end to the chaos.

X - GOT A COUPLE THAT'S OUTSIDE, THEY KILL ABOUT ME THOUGH 🪦

The dread of returning home to a less than ideal reality is coursing through your veins. It’s so overwhelming you can feel something is coming in your bones. The fight to maintain your centre is active. You haven't practised yoga in more than a week and you have not maintained your meditation rituals. A hand splays over your thigh offering comfort and affection along with a kiss on the top of your head as you rest your head on his chest. You can't help but wonder how he knows that right now you're in need of affection as your mind drifts. The plane starts its descent and you place your hand over Rio’s. You wish you were happier, especially after all the effort he’d put into your excursions the day prior but it feels like that ship has sailed with those bullshit messages. Closing your eyes you sigh deeply regretting the grace you’d given him. You regret not going postal, not showing up to his job, not kicking and screaming, not telling his mother, bleaching his clothes, the whole nine yards. Clearly, he has no intentions of sparing you or maintaining your reputation. Swallowing you decide the gloves are all the way off. Cheating back just didn't seem to cut it. You’d have to hop down to the depths to meet him at his level. You sit stewing without knowing Rio has already taken care of it. He’d gotten the message confirmation before you’d left the villa this morning. It was part of the reason why he found himself capable of smiling. As soon as the plane landed he knew there would be more details. He needed James down and incapable of bothering you for at least the next month. From here on out he’d let you decide the next courses of action - unless James gets out of pocket again. You and Rio leave the airport side by side. His assertive energy is quite the thing to experience in person. People just seem to give him respect. The airport staff nod at him in acknowledgement. People come over to help him when he needs help and he delegates efficiently finding an attendant to get your bags off the baggage carousel paying them handsomely to lift the bags and push the cart. He doesn't break a sweat keeping you close. You watch him in awe as he moves with precision and purpose; you end up at a part of the airport you don’t recall ever coming across as your bags are transferred to a new attendant.

“Hey man, table for two” Rio says and your eyes bulge in horror when you realise where you are. It's a five star restaurant.

“Rio, I’m in loungewear” you whisper.

“Let me find out you're trying to impress someone else” he comments and you shake your head. “You look beautiful” he smiles as we are seated in a private area. Everyone else is well dressed.

“Thank you, it's just …”

“Mama, me being able to get my girl in a restaurant I don’t own in her pyjamas is boss shit” Rio says and you feel your cheeks burn.

“Ha, Ha! You've seen my pj’s, this is loungewear” you correct.

“Whatever you say” he shrugs and you look away laughing as a server comes over pouring you a delicious smelling tea.

“The boss will be right out, if you need any help with the menus let me know. We’re happy to make any substitutions you may require. If you need anything click the button on the table and I'll be right out” the man explains. Overwhelmed you hand Rio your menu.

“Please order what you think I’ll like” you tell him and he smiles proceeding to do just that on your behalf. The server smiles and disappears. It’s clear he has great taste and only likes the best of the best, everywhere he goes he’s treated with the utmost consideration.

“I had a dinner planned for us last night” he confesses. It’s clear Rio is upset about having to pivot because of James. Your first instinct is an apology but you reconsider it knowing Rio doesn't expect one.

“I wish things happened differently,” you confess. “I know it would have been gorgeous” you smile and he nods.

“It was, and I was going to ask you to be my girl because I figure being clear is the best thing for both of us. I know you’ve got a lot going on and I know you’re trying to be happy but it’s okay if you’re not. Fuck shame and James the joke. Soso said I need to be more sensitive” he says.

“Soso?”

“Marisol” he corrects and you smile at his soft side and Marisol’s consideration of you. “Anyway, I’m not ashamed of shit we got going on or what you’re dealing with. I want you to be my girl. I enjoy our time together and I’m not running from shit” he shrugs.

“I had no idea they even made men like you” you remark out loud, thankful for him. Rio smirks, raising a brow.

“Like what?” he asks and you reach across the table to take his chin.

“No words” you smile, giving him a quick peck. “Of course I’ll be yours.” You respond sitting back down. Rio smiles.

“Good” he nods and the waiter brings out a delicious plate of food you absolutely love. Rio shares some of his with your and you with him. Before dinner is over he leaves to speak with the owner. You relax in your seat and check your phone to see a message thread with Tia already making plans for the two of you to go shopping. It’s how Rio finds you and you leave the restaurant and end up at the valet where his car is waiting already loaded with your luggage. You arrive at his place forty-five minutes later. It’s so clean it looks staged.

“I didn't forget about you getting your own place” he comments, watching you hesitate. Shacking up had been against your constitution since before you and James had gotten serious. James, you shake your head knowing you're gonna have to confront him over what he did. You’re gonna have to move your things out.

“I’m in no rush. I’m gonna call my mom and tell her we got in okay” you tell Rio.

“Bet, I have a meeting across town in two hours. I’m going to get ready and head out.” he says leaving you to it.

Settling into the extra deep cushions you look around at the pristine place that feels slightly sterile. It's the level of perfection that doesn't make it feel lived in. You call your mom and she picks up on the third ring.

“Hey Ma, we landed safely.” you tell her.

“Good baby girl” she says but her voice sounds off.

“What’s wrong?” you ask.

“Just got a call from James’ mother.” she says and your eyes close as the irritation mounts. That gag order might be necessary after all.

“Yay” you mutter sarcastically.

“Are you sitting down?” Ma asks and your eyes open as you sit forward.

“Yes?” you ask concerned.

“Apparently James was in a fight last night. It went badly for him and he’s in the hospital suffering pretty badly if she’s not exaggerating. They spent the night and all morning calling you until James was lucid enough to have them call his mother. She's furious and wouldn’t let me get a word in.” Your mom explains rocking your world.

“She’s blaming me isn't she?” You ask and your mothers silence is telling. “Why doesn't he call his girlfriend?” you question your mother.

“He wants you and she’s her son's advocate in light of your absence let her tell it” your mom explains. Sighing deeply you look at the ceiling.

“What was he thinking? Starting a fight?” you question.

Your mom sighs “I don’t know…”

“What do you think I should do?” you ask in need of guidance.

“Do what feels right” she says, being no help. Sexual healing with RIo is what feels right. But you leave your mom out of that truth sighing deeply. You resent James more and more every waking moment it seems.

“I guess I’ll go” you say finally. “Guess I’ll take this time to move my things out too”

“I’m coming down, i’ll get a hotel and we can sort it out together” she says.

“Thanks mom” you sigh in relief.

“No problem my love, let me get things sorted and I’ll call you later. Call me if you need anything” she offers.

“I will love you mommy, sorry you’ve become my secretary” you tell her.

“No problem, I've been cleaning up your shit since you were in diapers. It’s what I signed up for” she jokes, making you laugh.

“Hopefully, you get a break again really soon” you smile.

“Only a tiny one, I want some grandbabies,” she says.

“Ma!” you laugh.

“After the divorce is finalized of course, and you’re in a happy healthy marriage” she specifies.

“The shitty fumes must be getting to you. Light a candle, open a window, get some fresh air and I’ll call you later” you tease joking with her.

“Love you, bye” she says hanging up and you do too. Rio emerges dressed in his signature all black and you feel terrible for throwing yet another complicated issue his way.

“What is it?” he asks, sitting down beside you.

“I need a key” you tell him.

“My housekeeper got one cut,” he says. “Where are you headed?” he asks.

“To the hospital James got into something. I’m his emergency contact, he’s in bad shape and asking for me, it’s this whole thing” you explain not wanting to be in this situation.

“I don't think he deserves to see you,” Rio says angrily.

“I’m not sure he’s seeing much of anything with how bad it seems he was beat up.” you tell Rio.

“I don't think you should go after the shit he’s pulled” Rio stands his ground.

“I know, I’m going to go though. I can't keep running from my problems. If I go, he and his mom can say whatever. I can remove myself from all necessary non-legal documents for the time being and then I can tell her I'm going to move out my things and to stop calling my mom. Moving forward all communications will be handled through email until I retain legal counsel” you explain and Rio finds himself smiling.

“Boss shit” he comments.

You snicker. “I have a good teacher”

“Who? I’m not doing all that talking” Rio asserts.

“Take my car and call me if anything you don't like happens” Rio offers.

“You have a meeting. I’ll wait” You respond not wanting to be a distraction.

“Baby, I’m the boss, there's no meeting without me,” Rio says and you laugh, shaking your head at him. Everything about him is so sexy to you. There's no apology for owning who he is and you pinch his cheek.

“I love that about you” you smile honestly and in a second you clam up. The L word. But Rio doesnt clam up, it’s music to his ears.

“Don’t start or we’ll be here all day if I have to list the things I love about you” he says, giving you a kiss as he stands with his heart racing like a kid. His smile is reassuring, affirming you're alright.

“Maybe some other time then” you recover and he nods, coming back with car keys and a house key for you.

“Go handle your business mama” Rio smirks, willing to let you leap. Your lungs fill with air and you nod knowing he’s there to catch you.

You feel yourself tugging at the hems of your long sleeves as you walk into the eerie hospital environment. The stark whites and fluorescent lighting clash with the depth of Rio’s home decor. No longer in his presence you don't feel as strong or as sure footed. If James has done anything over the past month, it's been turning your life upside down. After years of keeping things close to the chest, what he pulled last night was the very last thing you ever thought he would do. You guess karma is funny that way because it’s him and not you that acted the ass only to be beat up so bad hospitalisation is required. Following the directions from the information desk you find yourself in a unit that smells absolutely disgusting. You hold your breath until you grab a mask from the wall only to freeze once it's on. James’ mother Gladys watches you with folded arms. His father James Senior sits outside the room with his head down instead of pointed at you.

“Someone call my wife!” you hear James shout from inside one of the rooms. His voice is strained and the pain in it is unmistakable.

“Get your ass in there!” His mother screams near tears.

“Gladys” Senior hisses, he’s the king of time and place. Years of trying to please his family nearly makes you rush into the room with your head down, but the time of putting James your needs ahead of everyone else's is done.

“Gladys I’d like to speak to you” you swallow standing your ground.

“We can talk after you go in and tend to your husband.” Her tone is sharp but it no longer cuts.

“If you don't want to talk now I can leave and I won't be coming back” you swallow standing firm.

“Y/N, he’s in pain, one of his eyes is swollen shut and his neck is sprained from how hard he was hit. His breathing is impeded by a few cracked ribs according to x-rays and he’s got a fractured ankle.” Senior says. It’s a surprise, you've never heard of someone so severely impacted from a fight. All that muscle and it turns out he’s made of glass.

“How many people fought him?” you ask.

“Two” Senior responds and you swallow. “He wants to see you, that's all he wants. I know you two are having a rough patch-”

“He’s been cheating on me for six months. Please don’t deny it. I saw the photographs and messages between them. She knew and would talk about me like trash. James didn't defend me. It’s the truth and if he thinks I'm so crazy to make things up then that's another reason we should be divorced.” You tell his father frankly.

“He’s a successful man and you want for nothing, give a little, have a heart” His mother says, shaming women everywhere. As painful as it is, you're grateful that James and his family are in the past now.

“He’s been harassing me for the past week and a half. I had to change my number. The only reason I left is because he nearly put hands on me. Dragged me out of the car when I tried to leave him. A cop broke it up. It’s documented if you don't believe me. He’s been harassing my mother too and cyberstalking me. He’s sending horrible messages to the people I spend time with telling them I’m having an affair, that I’m crying out for attention and mentally unstable.” You vent and while Gladys looks like she doesn’t believe it, Senior seems less reluctant to accept your truth.

“He shouldn’t get physical,” Senior says, drawing the line in the sand somewhere. It’s a decent start toward progress.

“Or harass and stalk me” you add.

“He’s fighting for you Y/N, out of everyone he’s been calling for you non stop. He’s made a mistake but he loves you and I know you love him. You've been married for years, don't let a lapse in judgement or another woman take that from you. He probably let the world or his colleagues get in his head.” Senior says with excellent spin. Maybe two months ago it would have worked. Maybe if he’d ended things without the pressure of your awareness. Maybe if he’d treated you better or reacted differently but not now, not after he’s done so much to hurt you.

“She can have him because if this is how he loves - I don't want it” You swallow pushing the door open. Looking at James sympathy swells in your core. Half of his face is so swollen he’s nearly unrecognisable. He can barely handle the flu so you know this is hell for him.

“Baby” he smiles, erasing every drop of empathy in you.

“No baby, Y/N” You correct sitting in the chair and he smiles while shaking his head.

“What are you playing at? What took you so long?” He asks, trying a smile, it's hard to tell with the swelling.

“James pretending to have amnesia is beneath even you. Don’t make this worse than it needs to be with the pet names. I’ve had enough Jekyll and Hyde from you to last a lifetime” you comment with thinning patience. James’ eyes hold yours for a long while before he relents.

“I’m not gonna stop fighting for us” is what he says first.

“Yes you are, I’m gonna go to the house this week and get my things and you're going to stop contacting me and anyone I associate with.” you explain.

“You're my wife Y/N” he snaps.

“Call Japan, get down on one knee for her when you can manage it” You comment and the hint of cruelty in your disregard for his current predicament is not lost on James.

“So you can be with a club owner? I mean if you’re pissed with me for cheating what do you think he’s gonna do?” James deflects.

“No one I associate with is your business. James, why don't you understand that I’m trying to be civil when what I should do is crash out after the shit you pulled yesterday. That message was abhorrent and grounds for me to file for a restraining order which I may have to still since you're committed to thinking this divorce is a joke” you snap.

“It is, you can't afford to leave me” he threatens.

“No James, you can't afford to lose me but it’s too late. I hope you treat the next woman better, if you get lucky enough.” You stand.

“You won't get anything good in the divorce we don’t have kids!” He says playing his last card.

“Thank God, co-parenting with an asshole like you would be a life sentence” you comment.

“Fuck you” he sneers and the machine he’s attached to starts beeping.

“Have fun pissing into a cup” You shoot back as his mother rushes in.

—----

Later that night

Sitting in the dimly lit room Rio can't recall the last time someone had him this out of character. But James was new to the city after all. How could he know who he was dealing with in all his arrogance. It was his arrogance that made this all easier for Rio. Getting him handled was just a phone call. Sitting he looks ahead at the imbecile that was stupid enough to let you slip through his fingers. Up close and personal with James it was clear the man couldn't differentiate between an asset or liability. He had a wife that was happy to please him, out of the way, good cook with great pussy and a heart of gold. He’d traded into a clear cut VVS diamond for one of those huge lab grown stones. He’d an heirloom for aesthetics, gold for fools gold, and now he was grasping at straws. Being fed pain killers intravenously to quell the beating that was the result of him acting out. Looking down at his gloved hand Rio looks to the gold gun, it always did the trick. Got people where he wanted them quickly. Got their undivided attention and guided them to compliance. Sitting forward he butts the hospital bed arm rails with his gun twice before sitting back in the seat. James only stirs sleepily, rapping twice more, Rio watches as the man stirs looking around only to go from sleepy to scared. Rio watches as James sits up only to wince and hiss. His hands reach for the button to call the nurse but Rio has already switched it off. It takes James a moment to realise help isn't coming only for panic to fill his eyes at the sight of the gun laying on his lap.

“I - I - I” James begins but the first two tries are hoarse. He swallows before continuing. “IIIII, I didn't mean whatever I said or did, I was wasted” he manages. Displeased with his skills of deduction Rio says nothing as he watches him fight to sit up in disgust.

“You have two choices,” Rio says finally. “Option One: You refuse option two and I pay one of these underpaid and overworked nurses to inject something to make your life miserable into this bag. More miserable than you are already.” Rio swallows. “Two, you leave Y/N alone and sign the divorce papers”

“How the fuck do you know my wif-” Rio is quick and presses the iron against Jame’s skull.

“Keep talking crazy” Rio smiles, pulling the gun back to screw on a silencer. Once it's fastened he returns his attention back to James. “What were you saying?” Rio asks with his head tilted, wishing James would give him one more reason. Instead of a response the coward swallows. Rio smirks, returning to his seat placing the gun on the tray beside him and giving James his attention once again.

“I mean I get it. I dont get why you cheated but I get you fighting for her. I mean …” Rio nods to himself. “It’s the way she looks at me when she hasn't seen me for a bit” Rio starts chipping away at James' resolve. “The way she calls when she needs something, her little walk, hell I don't even care about her shit crowding the counters in the bathroom” Rio taunts watching James’ patience wear down.

“So you’re her rebound” James grits.

“Rebound is better than the guy who fumbled her. Rebound has her in bed begging for more almost every night.” Rio continues.

“Enough” Jame’s grits.

“I mean I guess you know how good her pussy is, fan-fucking-tastic. I’ll probably suck her dry when I get home and then give her a son” Rio says, hitting the right nerve.

“Fuck you!” James snarks, making Rio smile.

“She probably ain’t post these to spare your ass but since youre a nosy fuck take a look” Rio says getting his phone to a few of the video’s they’d taken on the trip. James closes his eyes at the sight of Rio grabbing your boob while in a bikini in the water together before you kiss. “Aww, what's wrong? It’s no fun when I have the gun?”

“I’ll sign the fucking papers” James grits.

“Ay man, she was always gonna get the divorce whether you were here on earth or in hell” Rio mutters keeping James aware of the existing power dynamic. “Matter of fact, you're gonna send everyone you sent the last bullshit message this one and post it to your story” :

Hello,

I’m writing with a heavy heart to clarify my previous message regarding the affair between your cousin and Y/N. I realize now how misguided and hurtful my words were, driven by my own insecurities and shame.

The painful truth is that I am the one who had an affair for six long months with someone named @JapanJacobs. In my selfishness, I completely neglected my role as a husband and failed to be the partner Y/N deserved. I can’t express how deeply sorry I am for the emotional turmoil I’ve caused her.

I must admit that I also became aggressive with her during our struggles, which only pushed her further away. When she finally asked for a divorce, it sent me spiralling into a manic state that I couldn’t control. I was lost and scared, and I lashed out in my confusion.

I am currently seeking serious help for my mental health and undergoing an evaluation, but I know it may be too little, too late. I am truly ashamed of my actions and the pain I’ve inflicted, not just on my wife but on all of you as well.

I’m so sorry for dragging you into this mess and for speaking poorly of Y/N, who has shown me nothing but kindness. I feel utterly pathetic for what I’ve done, and I can only hope for forgiveness, even though I know I don’t deserve it.

Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.

Sincerely,James

Looking up from the screen James can hardly speak again. “I’m not sending that!” he snaps scornfully. His pride would not allow it.

“I think you are and I bet you don't tell anyone about my visit either. Won’t make you look too sane. Promise you this, if I have to deal with another frown from something you did to my woman you won't walk again. You try something slick and your pops will be in the morgue first. You should’ve respected your beauty but now you’ve woken up a beast.” Rio stands as James’ night nurse enters. Rio waits for James to cry foul but he doesn't. Nodding Rio gives the nurse her cue. A sleep draft is administered and before James can make any stupid decisions he’s forced into a temporary sleep. The messages are sent, the story is posted and Rio leaves the hospital having snatched away all James’ power, safety and ego. According to the nurse, recovery would take at least six months which would be enough time to decide how to end him and make it look accidental.

Authors Note: Whew, this was a long one with a little of everything. I hope you all are happy with James getting his just due. Rio said aht aht aht, you're gonna suffer like you tried to make my girl. You're gonna go crazy like you tried to make my girl. Stick around and try me big dog 😂 What was your favourite part of the chapter? Also, I still have some time to finish up the final part so let me know any suggestions below or in my inbox 📥 .

» next part

TAGS:

@meadows5 @wnbweasley @becauseimher @ariiaeltheedonn @woahthatshitfat @miniaturehideoutmentality @kokobells @ffenthusiastt @sowhatariyana @1xtral1983 @theegoddessofmelanin @fictionalreads

#rio good girls #rio x reader #good girls rio #rio x you #manny montana x reader #rio good girls imagine #manny montana fanfiction #rio good girls fanfiction #masterlist #forgiveless

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probablyasocialecologist · 20 days ago

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The latest, AI-dedicated server racks contain 72 specialised chips from manufacturer Nvidia. The largest “hyperscale” data centres, used for AI tasks, would have about 5,000 of these racks. And as anyone using a laptop for any period of time knows, even a single chip warms up in operation. To cool the servers requires water – gallons of it. Put all this together, and a single hyperscale data centre will typically need as much water as a town of 30,000 people – and the equivalent amount of electricity. The Financial Times reports that Microsoft is currently opening one of these behemoths somewhere in the world every three days. Even so, for years, the explosive growth of the digital economy had surprisingly little impact on global energy demand and carbon emissions. Efficiency gains in data centres—the backbone of the internet—kept electricity consumption in check. But the rise of generative AI, turbocharged by the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, has shattered that equilibrium. AI elevates the demand for data and processing power into the stratosphere. The latest version of OpenAI’s flagship GPT model, GPT-4, is built on 1.3 trillion parameters, with each parameter describing the strength of a connection between different pathways in the model’s software brain. The more novel data that can be pushed into the model for training, the better – so much data that one research paper estimated machine learning models will have used up all the data on the internet by 2028. Today, the insatiable demand for computing power is reshaping national energy systems. Figures from the International Monetary Fund show that data centres worldwide already consume as much electricity as entire countries like France or Germany. It forecasts that by 2030, the worldwide energy demand from data centres will be the same as India’s total electricity consumption.

30 May 2025

#ai #artificial intelligence #generative ai #electricity #big data #internet

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virtualizationhowto · 2 years ago

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Mini pc vs Server: Best Home Lab Server in 2024?

Mini pc vs Server: Best Home Lab Server in 2024? #homelab #vmwarecommunities #MiniPCvsServerComparison #HomeLabSetupGuide #EnergyEfficientComputing #RunningVirtualMachinesatHome #PowerConsumptioninMiniPCs #BestServerOptionsforHome #minipc #server

As we are headed into the back half of 2023, if you are like me, you are thinking about lab hardware that you may want to change out going into 2024. With Black Friday not much farther out in the grand scheme of things, you may be thinking about a new home lab server or other gear. With that being said, the mini PC market has really exploded, providing great options for the home lab. This post…

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#Best Server Options for Home Labs #Data Security in Home Servers #Energy-Efficient Computing #Home Lab Setup Guide #Intel NUC and Dell PowerEdge Reviews #MiniPC vs Server Comparison #Power Consumption in MiniPCs #Remote Management in Home Servers #Running Virtual Machines at Home #Storage Solutions for Home Computing

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charliemwrites · 1 year ago

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A little request from the discord server about Castle “Daddy” Alistair and No Nut November.

CW: free use spice; everything is enthusiastically consensual and part of an established dynamic.

It’s all Keegan’s fault.

Looking back on all the devastation, every fault line to this disaster can be traced back to Keegan fucking Russ and his stupid cocky mouth.

It started like this: the team was playing cards and sharing drinks, the dinner Nova prepared long since enjoyed. They were discussing silly internet trends and challenges, trying to explain to an unimpressed Nikto what the point of it all was.

Castle was listening with mild amusement, shaking his head at the nonsense of it all. The fact that these arbitrary tasks were considered difficult was a mystery to him and he said so. Then Keegan tapped his finger on the table, a glint in his eye.

“Ya know… November is coming up…” he mused.

“What about it?” Castle asked.

Nova to perked up, eyebrows arched. No way would Keegan actually suggest—

“There’s this one challenge I think you’d struggle with Cap. It happens that month.”

Castle snorted softly, tossed a couple cards down. Let the moment draw out just to fuck with his partner, even though they all knew he’d humor him in the end.

“Yeah? What is it?” he asked, taking a swig of his beer.

“It’s called No Nut November. Pretty much what it says on the tin. You don’t cum for the whole month,” Keegan explained. He sat back and crossed his arms, looking smug. “Tell me you wouldn’t fold, Cap.”

Castle leveled him a steady, smoldering look. “I wouldn’t fold.”

Nova shifted, face flushing when Castle focused on her, eyebrows arched in silent invitation. She debated all of three seconds before throwing caution to the wind; Keegan could use a bit of backup against a man so formidable. And besides, she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t curious about what would happen.

“I’m not saying you couldn’t,” she mused, “I’m just saying that given your usual libido, I don’t think it would be a walk in the park.”

He snorted, seeing right through her half-hearted attempt at diplomacy. “Is that right? And what do you think, Nikto?”

A pause as he considered, then spoke low and measured. “The sergeants are getting too cocky.”

Castle smirked. “I agree.”

A week into the “challenge” Keegan had nearly forgotten. The team was busy, not much opportunity for more than cuddles and stolen kisses.

Two weeks in and he was enjoying himself immensely. Teasing Castle with wandering hands, climbing under his desk and getting him right to the edge, only to be stopped by a firm hand in his hair and a low warning that he wasn’t as sly as he thought. It wasn’t like Keegan (or anyone else on the team) was taking on the challenge. They were getting to indulge themselves as often as time and energy would allow - usually with their Daddy right there, talking them through it, organizing them as efficiently as he would in the field. Taking care of them with his mouth and hands to stave off some of his own frustration.

But week three… week three he started to worry. It wasn’t that Castle was struggling. It wasn’t that he was snappish or pent up or frustrated. It was that he seemed perfectly fine. A quick adjustment of his pants here or there, idly stroking himself while he watched his partners together. But he was like fucking iron for himself, and Keegan’s normal admiration was taking on a frightened edge.

And then week four began the silent, unknown countdown. Keegan felt it on the back of his neck like a sniper scope. A little, private smirk on his captain’s face, or a slightly rougher than usual sigh. An unusual flex in his jaw or twitch in his steady hands.

On November 30th, the team was lounging in their private rec room, idly watching a tv show together. Nikto was curled up with Nova in one of the big arm chairs, her head settled on his shoulder. Keegan and Castle were sharing the couch, the latter with an arm thrown over the back around his sergeant’s shoulders.

Halfway through, he glanced casually at his watch. Stood up to take his empty glass to the sink. Sidled back around to his spot.

Then snatched Keegan by the shirt and threw him to the ground.

“What the—”

His sweats were yanked down to midthigh, but his underwear didn’t survive, split right down the seam by brutal hands.

“Did you have fun?” Castle asked, dangerously low and even.

Keegan started to push himself up, but a big hand on the back of his neck stopped him. And then a heavy body followed, pinning him prone to the floor. He shuddered as he felt the thick, hot, rocking fucking hard cock sliding between his asscheeks.

“S-sir…“

A thrust hard enough to rock his entire body, dragging his quickly-filling dick across the carpet. He choked out a noise as reality began to set in. Christ, he almost wished that didn’t feel so good.

“Daddy, I—”

“Asked you a question, didn’t I?” Castle rumbled, voice deceptively casual. “Did you have fun?”

Keegan shuddered, any defiance or self-preservation draining when he felt the pierced head of his daddy’s cock catching at his rim. His well-stretched, well-used, still-wet rim. Because Castle had spent an hour before dinner getting him off on his thick fingers.

“Yeah…”

“What was that? A bit louder, kid.”

“Yes, Daddy, I had fun.”

Castle chuckled, so deep and low and rough that Keegan could feel it in his own chest, all the way down into the pit of squirming stomach.

“Good,” he cooed, “I hope it was worth it. Because now it’s my turn.”

Keegan was a stupid, drooling mess when midnight struck. Stuffed full of his captain’s cock and shuddering on oversensitivity. Would forever deny the high-pitched whine that escaped when he felt the absolute flood of cum being fucked into him. There was so much, it leaked out around Castle’s still-hard cock and dripped down Keegan’s reddened thighs.

“Happy December 1st,” Castle chuckled, pulling out.

Keegan shuddered as he stood, could hear the audibly pop as he cracked his neck.

“Nikto, take care of Keegan. I’m not done with him yet.”

“Yes, sir.”

A heavy, tense pause.

“You know what’s next, don’t you, babygirl?”

“Daddy, I’m not the one that—”

“If you run, I’m fucking you wherever I catch you,” he warned, taking a languid step towards her.

Nikto silently slipped out of the way to kneel down by a dazed Keegan. Nova despaired. “So make your next choice very carefully.”

He had them both twice over that night, leaving them whimpering and sobbing in his bed. They only got a break when Nikto took one for the team, kneeling down to suck Castle off so his partners could get a rest.

The next ten days were a lustful sort of hell. At any moment, without warning, Castle would grab a teammate and press them against the nearest surface - his desk, a wall, a chair, even the counter at gun range - and pound the daylights out of them. Sometimes even going out of his way to sneak up, appearing like a shadow and dragging one of them into a supply closet to ruin them.

On a normal routine, Castle had an almost improbable level of stamina and lust. But after a month without getting off, with satisfying himself on his partners’ pleasure and indulging their teasing? He was utterly insatiable. Keegan made a comment about him being so horny that Castle would override biology and get him pregnant. One day, he’d learn to keep the thoughts inside. Blame it on his brain being ruined by astronomical levels of cock.

The compensation fucking finally began to taper off halfway into December, Castle seeming to level out back to his normal libido. Still high, but not anytime-anywhere-anyone levels anymore. He did chuckle at his jumpy teammates in the aftermath though, watching their pupils blow out whenever he looked at them a certain way.

The next time they played cards (everyone but Castle sitting gingerly in their chairs) he smirked at Keegan around his beer bottle.

“So, you wanna try your luck next year?”

#cod #thoughts™️#my writing #fanfiction #cod oc #my oc #castle ‘daddy’ alistair #captain daddy #keegan p russ #nova cod #cod nikto

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greatkittencloud · 21 days ago

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TW : Blood , Injuries , Mention of Violence

Black Nova

Chapter 10

Location: RAF Base

Time 0800 Hours

Three months had passed. Nova was bit more comfortable with team than she was before. She didn't show it but she admired everyone , she had developed feelings for them

Nova had those feelings buried under concrete and barbed wire.

Weapons shouldn’t have soft spots.

So she buried hers deep beneath discipline, silence, and training so relentless it numbed the noise.

But even so... every once in a while, she’d catch herself watching them.

Watching him.

When Ghost adjusted his gloves with unconscious precision. When he stood beside her in the briefing room, shoulder just brushing hers. When he made an offhand remark so dry she almost smiled behind her mask.

Weakness.

She crushed it every time.

Because she wasn’t built for warmth or laughter or friendships forged over war and blood.

She was a weapon.

That morning, she stood by the gear table, loading her rifle with quiet efficiency. The team was preparing for recon drills in the nearby woods.

“Morning, Nova,” Gaz greeted, walking past with a grin.

She nodded once, silent.

Behind her, Soap nudged Ghost. “Told you she’s warming up. One of these days she might even say ‘Hi' back.”

Ghost didn’t look up. “Doubt it.”

But his eyes flicked toward her.

And when she glanced back at him—just for a second...he was already looking.

Nova quickly turned away.

Buried it again.

Weapons don’t get soft.

Weapons don’t care.

But she did.

And it scared the hell out of her.

Location: Eastern Europe – Abandoned Satellite Bunker

Time: 0100 Hours

The sky was black, no clouds. The Task Force 141 approached the crumbling satellite. Intel suggested it had been reactivated someone was using Cold War tech to transmit ghost signals.

“We get in, plant the charges, pull the data off the relay, and get out,” Price briefed over comms. “Quiet and quick."

The facility was built into a ridge. It had the feel of something dead—but Nova knew better. Rot didn’t mean harmless.

She moved ahead of Ghost, checking corners, ears tuned for the hum of distant power lines.

He followed silently. Trusted her lead.

They made it to the main chamber tall walls, old server racks covered in dust. The relay tower’s core blinked with unnatural red light, modern tech wired into rusted frames.

Nova crouched beside the server housing. “They’ve modified this. New energy source.”

She glanced at the floor. “Motion sensors.”

Her gaze flicked to where he pointed—barely visible pressure plates.

“Careful.”

He nodded “Downloading now. 67%…” Ghost said.

Nova’s voice came low. “Movement ,west corridor.”

Nova looked up. Her hand went to her weapon, slowly. “We’ll finish in thirty seconds.”

But thirty seconds was too long.

BOOM!

Everything exploded.

Ghost was thrown backward, slammed into a beam. His head cracked against it, helmet sparing him from the worst—but not all.

Nova hit the ground hard. Metal tore across her side. Her mask tore up, blood streaming from her temple. The left side of her body throbbed, numb and screaming all at once.

Her ears rang.Smoke filled her lungs.

“Ghost—” she tried, coughing. “Ghost!”

He didn’t answer.

She pushed up on one arm. Her vision doubled, fading at the edges—but she saw him.

Unmoving. Slumped near the wreckage, blood trailing from beneath his mask.

She crawled to him.

Her hand pressed to his neck.

Pulse—faint.

Her breath caught in her chest.

No. No, no, no.

She didn’t notice the gash in her side, the burns along her arm, the cracked bone in her wrist. She didn’t care.

She had to move him.

Her arms locked around him. She ignored all the pain just as she had countless time. Her boots scraped over glass and metal.

"You better not die Ghost"

Behind her, more of the ceiling began to crumble.

The comms crackled.

“Nova, status—? We lost your signal. Nova, come in!”

She barely heard it. How could she with her ears ringing

Her only focus was the man in her arms—not the growing darkness at the edge of her sight.

She made it to the evacuation point—barely.

Her boots dragged in the dirt, every nerve in her body screaming, but she didn’t stop. Not with Ghost slumped in her arms, barely breathing.

The chopper thundered above. Gaz and Soap sprinted toward her, relief crashing across their faces until they saw the state of them both.

“Bloody hell—Nova!”

“Get the gurney, now!” Soap barked toward the medics.

She didn’t register the words. Everything blurred. Her arms refused to let go of Ghost, even as the medics pried her hands away.

"Trauma to the head, possible skull fracture," one medic shouted over the noise. "Burns on the left side, unconscious. shrapnel stuck inside!"

“He needs oxygen , his BP is dropping. Get the mask on him!” another ordered, securing Ghost onto the gurney.

Gaz came in front of her. “Nova—hey. Can you hear me?”

Her body swayed. " I'm Okay"

Her mask was cracked, half-shattered from the blast. Her breathing rasped through what was left.

“Nova—your mask’s compromised,” Soap said, beside Gaz. “We need to get it off—alright?”

She blinked slowly.

One of the medics gently reached for the buckles.

“Wait” she murmured, too soft.

But the clasp gave way.

The front fell forward.

And for the first time, Gaz and Soap saw her.

Blood streaked her cheekbone. Some flowing through her skull. Ash clung to her jaw. Her lips were pale, her one eye was bloody. But beneath all that—young. Younger than they’d guessed.

Barely more than a girl.

Soap exhaled. “Shit…”

Nova blinked at them, dazed—too far gone to react to the exposure. Her breaths coming short. Her legs gave up and she collapsed to the ground.

The medic pressed gauze to her temple , holding her up “She’s bleeding alot”

As they lifted her onto a second gurney, her eyes locked onto Ghost’s stretcher.

Her vision was turning dark , eyes fluttering close, finally letting the black take her.

Gaz watched as the bird lifted off, carrying them both back to base.

“I didn’t think…” he started, voice low. “I didn’t think she was that young.”

Soap stared up at the sky.

“Doesn’t matter. She dragged a six-foot-five man through hell with one arm.”

He looked back toward where she’d collapsed.

"That's what a weapon does I guess"

Thank you for reading!

Taglist: @hyperfixiation-station , @massivescissorsthingperson , @kaoyamamegami , @sweetybuzz25 , @sheepispink , @warrior-xe , @enfppuff.

#ghost cod #john price #john soap mactavish #cod fandom #cod x reader #kyle gaz garrick #simon ghost riley #task force 141 #black nova #call of duty

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wachinyeya · 4 months ago

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Geneva-based Infomaniak has been recovering 100 per cent of the electricity it uses since November 2024.

The recycled power will be able to fuel the centralised heating network in the Canton of Geneva and benefit around 6,000 households.

The centre is currently operating at 25 per cent of its potential capacity. It aims to reach full capacity by 2028.

Swiss data centre leads the way for a greener cloud industry

The data centre hopes to point to a greener way of operating in the electricity-heavy cloud industry.

"In the real world, data centres convert electricity into heat. With the exponential growth of the cloud, this energy is currently being released into the atmosphere and wasted,” Boris Siegenthaler, Infomaniak's Founder and Chief Strategy Officer, told news site FinanzNachrichten.

“There is an urgent need to upgrade this way of doing things, to connect these infrastructures to heating networks and adapt building standards."

Infomaniak has received several awards for the energy efficiency of its complexes, which operate without air conditioning - a rarity for hot data centres.

The company also builds infrastructure underground so that it doesn’t have an impact on the environment.

Swiss data centre recycles heat for homes

At Infomaniak, all the electricity that powers equipment like servers, inverters and ventilation is converted into heat at a temperature of 40 to 45C.

This is then channelled to an air/water exchanger which filters it into a hot water circuit. Heat pumps are used to increase its temperature to 67C in summer and 85C in winter.

How many homes will be heated by the data centre?

When the centre is operating at full capacity, it will supply Geneva’s heating network with 1.7 megawatts, the amount needed for 6,000 households per year or for 20,000 people to take a 5-minute shower every day.

This means the Canton of Geneva can save 3,600 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2eq) of natural gas every year, or 5,500 tCO2eq of pellets annually.

The system in place at Infomaniak’s data centre is free to be reproduced by other companies. There is a technical guide available explaining how to replicate the model and a summary for policymakers that advises how to improve design regulations and the sustainability of data centres.

#good news #environmentalism #science #environment #climate change #climate crisis #switzerland #geneva #Infomaniak #cloud storage #cloud data #carbon emissions #heat pumps

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justarandomreaderxoxo · 9 days ago

Text

Shadows of the Heart: Chapter 7

Soft Hands, Hard Shadows

Summary: Your intimacy deepens, threading tenderness and truth together, just before a brutal attack shatters their peace and exposes the danger shadowing your name. Now, with vengeance in motion and war at your doorstep, you must confront both the blood in your past and the woman who’s seen you at your most unguarded—hoping she’ll still hold your hand when the smoke clears.

Word count: 9915

Pronouns: She/Her

Age: 24

Pairings: Wanda Maximoff x reader

Warnings: Graphic violence, Explicit sexual content, Gun violence, Near-death experience, Hospitalization, Injury, PTSD implications, Emotional trauma

A/N: This my first time writing smut guys, i don't know if it's good or not but it felt good so i've included it. Minors Do Not Interact.

Previous Chapter | Important Flashback | Next Chapter | Series Masterlist | Main Masterlist

The sleek black car rolled to a stop outside a discreet glass-walled building tucked between Rotterdam’s canals and modern high-rises. The driver stepped out and opened the door. You adjusted the cuffs of your blazer as you climbed out, sunglasses shielding your tired but focused eyes.

Tony was already waiting by the entrance, his hands in the pockets of a perfectly tailored suit, a lopsided smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

“Took you long enough,” he said as you approached. “I thought billionaires were all about punctuality.”

You shrugged, stepping beside him. “I was saying goodbye to someone important.”

Tony tilted his head slightly, then let it go. “Come on. We’ve got a lot to cover, and this city is full of people who don’t wait.”

Inside, the lobby was quiet and minimalistic. The air carried the scent of fresh coffee and something faintly metallic. You followed him past a secured entrance and into a private elevator. He swiped his keycard and leaned against the mirrored wall as the elevator rose.

“So, first things first,” Tony said, glancing at you. “The new logistics arm in Hamburg hit a snag with customs. Nothing serious, but I want your read on it before I start throwing legal grenades.”

You nodded. “I’ll take a look. What’s the real reason you called me here though?”

Tony didn’t answer right away. The elevator chimed and opened into a sleek penthouse suite with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. His tone dropped a little as he walked toward the long table already scattered with files and tablet screens.

“I got wind of someone poking into our clean accounts. Not the dirty ones. The legit ones. Rotterdam, Vienna, maybe even Dubai. Whoever it is, they know what they’re doing.”

You took off your sunglasses, your gaze sharp now. “And you need me to help flush them out.”

“I need you to handle it the way only you can,” Tony said. “Quietly, efficiently.”

You moved to the table, scanning the data laid out before you. Something flickered in the corner of your mind, a name you had seen once. You leaned closer.

“I’ll need access to a few servers,” you said. “And no distractions.”

Tony crossed his arms. “You sure this is the best time? Shouldn’t you be off sipping wine with your mysterious suitor?”

You glanced at him, then back at the files. “She’s not a distraction. She’s the reason I want everything else under control.”

Tony raised his brows slightly but didn’t push. Instead, he tossed you a tablet.

“Then let’s clean house.”

You caught it one-handed and got to work.

The next few hours passed in a blur of surveillance feeds, rapid phone calls, and cross-branch communications. The energy in the war room remained high, the hum of tension vibrating beneath every keystroke and muttered update. You stood with your arms folded, eyes scanning a live stream from Marseille, watching every second of footage with sharp focus.

Then the update came in.

“Miss Fury,” one of the analysts called out, swivelling from her screen. “We’ve confirmed it. The flagged equipment? Turns out it belonged to a contracted maintenance crew. They updated their tech and hadn’t filed the proper change with our systems.”

You blinked, then slowly turned to face her. “You’re sure.”

She nodded. “Positive. Triple-checked. No breach. No external tampering. Just bad paperwork and a lazy report.”

You let out a breath. “Alright. Good work.”

Tony turned from where he’d been pacing and raised an eyebrow. “False alarm?”

You nodded. “Looks like it.”

He grinned, already half amused. “And here I thought we were about to start another fire.”

You gave him a look. “You still might if you don’t stop pacing like an anxious raccoon.”

Tony held up his hands in surrender and dropped into a chair. “Well, on the bright side, it means I don’t have to cancel my stupid board meeting tomorrow.”

You smirked, then turned to the rest of the room. “Thank you. All of you. Run final verifications, log everything, and send me the summaries by morning.”

As the team got back to work, you leaned against the table, the weight of the morning slipping from your shoulders. Tony tossed you a bottle of water, which you caught without looking. Your gaze drifted out the tall glass windows. Rotterdam stretched quiet and grey beyond the glass. Your mind was already halfway back to the smile you left behind.

“Yeah,” you murmured. “Guess I am.”

You stepped out of the conference room, leaving the quiet hum of Stark’s ops centre behind. The hall was empty at this hour, a soft morning haze pouring through the tall windows overlooking Rotterdam.

You leaned against the wall and pulled out your phone, scrolling past the endless updates and messages until you found the number labelled simply: Dad.

The line clicked almost immediately.

“Talk,” came the familiar gravel.

“It was nothing. False alarm.” you said, voice a little softer than usual.

A pause. Then a breath on the other end. “Took you long enough to call.”

You let out a quiet chuckle, the tension still lingering in your chest beginning to ease. “I wanted to be sure before I said anything. Everything’s fine. No breach, no threat. Just a systems error that flagged the wrong gear.”

There was a rustle, like he’d shifted in his seat. “You know I trust you, right?”

You nodded even though he couldn’t see it. “I know. But I also know you didn’t sleep while this was going on.”

“That’s my job. Same as yours.”

“Yeah, but mine comes with better coffee,” you teased, letting the quiet between you settle in a familiar, steady rhythm.

After a moment, he said, “Tony with you?”

“Yeah. He’s grumbling about missing a board meeting.”

Fury grunted. “Tell him he still owes me a drink for that time in Milan.”

“I’ll put it on the tab.”

“You headed back?”

“Not yet. I figured I’d stay in the city a while longer.”

There was another beat of silence before he asked, “You seeing her soon?”

You smiled, almost despite yourself. “Yeah. I’m sending the jet for her. Planning a weekend.”

His voice lost the rough edge for a split second. “Good.”

“I’ll call again before we head out.”

“Take care of yourself, kid.”

“You too, Dad.”

You ended the call, slipping the phone back into your pocket. The city stretched ahead of you, clean and quiet. You stood there for a few moments longer, your thoughts already drifting back to Wanda’s voice and the way her eyes lit up when she laughed. Then you pushed off the wall, headed for the rest of the day, just a little lighter on your feet.

The bar had a rustic warmth to it, all amber lights and worn wooden beams. Jazz hummed low in the background. It was the kind of place that made you forget the outside world for a while, and maybe that was the point. You nursed a drink near the corner booth, back to the wall, keeping one eye on the door out of habit. When Nat slid in across from you without much fanfare.

"Still got the same taste," she said, raising an eyebrow at your drink before flagging the server for her own.

You gave her a small smirk. "You flew all the way here just to check my taste in whiskey?"

"I flew here for the crisis that solved itself." Her lips curved slightly. "The whiskey's a bonus."

She took her drink when it arrived and leaned back, watching you. "So, you called Dad. You’re calm. Stark is calm. Which means I can ask the real question."

You raised a brow. "Which is?"

"Why do you look like you're halfway floating?"

You didn’t answer right away. Instead, you took a slow sip, letting the silence speak for a second.

"I went on a date," you finally said.

She leaned forward a little, resting her forearms on the table. “Alright. Spill. Because last time you said, ‘it’s casual’ and now you’re here, sipping whiskey like you’re composing poetry in your head.”

You chuckled under your breath. “It's still early. We’ve only gone out a few times.”

“Uh-huh.” Natasha tilted her head. “And you’ve told me exactly nothing. No name. No occupation. Just that they exist. Which is very unlike you.”

You traced your finger along the rim of the glass, thinking. “I didn’t want to jinx it. Or overthink it. Or... I don’t know, make it heavier than it is.”

Nat gave you a look. “Y/N. You overthink everything. That’s your brand.”

You laughed quietly. “Fair.”

She took a sip of her drink, then set it down. “So, what’s different about this person?”

You paused. Looked down. Then met her eyes.

“Doesn’t ask what I do or what I own or how I fit into the city’s twisted hierarchy. She just... talks to me. Like I’m not the Fury heir or the strategist or the woman with her face on a magazine.” you said softly

Nat didn't speak, but something in her expression softened. Encouraged, you went on.

“She makes me feel like I could be someone else. Someone... normal.”

A moment passed.

“Do you want that?” Nat asked, voice gentler now. “To be normal?”

You shrugged. “I don’t know. Maybe not forever. But it’s nice to pretend for a little while. To sit in a cafe and talk about movies or music or how she likes her coffee. It’s peaceful. Not something I thought I’d want. But I do.”

Nat sipped again, then smiled faintly. “You sound like me when Maria started staying over.”

You raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah. I was still sleeping with a knife under the pillow. Still waiting for her to leave one morning and not come back.” She met your gaze. “But she stayed. Because I let her in.”

You sat back in your seat, turning those words over in your head.

“I keep waiting for the moment she finds out,” you admitted. “Not just about what I do, but who I really am. The whole picture. And I don’t know if she’ll still look at me the same.”

“Do you want her to?”

You hesitated.

“I want her to know, eventually. But I want to give her more of the real me first. The part that’s not built out of blood and fire.”

“That part exists,” Nat said, without blinking. “I’ve seen it. She will too.”

There was a silence after that, the kind that didn’t need filling. You were both staring into your glasses, jazz spilling through the air between you like a secret being kept.

“I asked her to join me here for a weekend,” you said quietly.

Nat smiled, a rare open thing. “Then stop overthinking and do it. We’re allowed good things too, you know.”

You let out a breath, like a small weight had slipped off your chest. You raised your glass, and she clinked it with hers.

“Alright,” you said.

“don’t forget to warn her that we’re all crazy.” She said.

You laughed, and for a little while, the bar, the city, and all the weight of your name felt just a little bit lighter.

MEANWHILE IN NEW YORK

As the door closed and the soft click of the lock echoed through the apartment, Wanda stood there for a moment, her fingers still tingling from where they’d held yours. The space felt a little too quiet, a little too still, but she smiled to herself anyway, the corners of her mouth curling with the warmth you left behind.

She turned back into the kitchen, finishing off the last sip of her coffee before rinsing the mug and setting it on the rack. The scent of breakfast still lingered faintly in the air - eggs, toast, and that hint of cinnamon she always added when cooking for you.

With a hum under her breath, she padded to the bedroom to change, trading her sleepwear for her usual workday attire: a cozy cardigan over a soft blouse and dark jeans. She pulled her hair up in a quick twist, slipped on her shoes, and grabbed her keys from the hook by the door.

The walk to the café was only a few blocks, familiar and quiet in the early morning. A few neighbours waved, and she greeted them with a polite smile, her thoughts still lingering on you. She caught herself smiling at nothing, that silly grin she only wore when thinking about you, how you looked so serious when you tried not to be late, how your voice dropped when you leaned in close.

Once inside the café, she flicked on the lights, the space warming instantly with its soft, golden glow. Chairs were still stacked, the counter was spotless, and the faint smell of roasted beans welcomed her like an old friend.

Wanda moved easily through her opening routine. Grinding fresh beans, prepping pastries, checking the ovens, all while her phone sat nearby, just in case your name popped up on the screen. And it made her heart feel light, knowing you were out in the world doing something meaningful, yet still finding ways to make room for her.

She glanced toward the one corner table you liked when you first walked in and smiled. Maybe she’d reserve it for when you came back.

The bell above the café door jingled as Pietro stepped inside, ruffling his silver-blond hair and shaking off the morning breeze. He scanned the room until he spotted Wanda behind the counter, sleeves rolled up and hands dusted lightly with flour.

"Smells like heaven in here," he said, strolling up with a crooked grin. "You saving any of that for your favourite twin?"

Wanda glanced up with a playful eye roll. "You're my only twin, Pietro."

"And still your favourite," he said, leaning on the counter. Then his eyes narrowed as he studied her. "You look... suspiciously chipper for this early. Spill."

Wanda hesitated for just a moment, but the smile tugged at her lips before she could stop it. "I’m going away this weekend."

Pietro raised both brows. "With her?"

Wanda nodded, unable to contain the smile this time. "Y/N invited me to join her in Rotterdam once she wraps up some work. Said she'd send a jet for me."

Pietro blinked. "A jet? As in, a whole private jet?"

"Da," Wanda said lightly, wiping her hands on a towel. "Like it's no big deal."

"Because to her, it's not," Pietro muttered. "Wands, you’re dating an international mogul. Are you even aware of the kind of money she’s sitting on?"

"I know enough," Wanda said, then paused. "But she doesn't throw it in my face. When she offered the jet, it wasn’t to impress me. It was so I could be with her without any hassle. That's just who she is."

Pietro gave her a long look, then leaned back with a sigh. "Just making sure you’re not being swept off your feet into a whole other stratosphere."

"I’m still me, Pietro," she said softly. "And she's still her. She listens. She cares. She doesn't treat me like a trophy."

"And you're sure about this trip?" he asked, quieter this time.

Wanda nodded. "I want to see her world a little. Not the fancy stuff. Just... how she lives. And we’ll explore Rotterdam together. No rush, no pressure. Just the two of us."

Pietro’s shoulders dropped a little, some tension leaving his frame. "Alright. But if she forgets to feed you or makes you walk in heels all day, I'm flying over myself."

Wanda laughed, reaching over to swat his arm. "You’re the worst."

"And you’re in love," he teased, backing away with a wink. "I'll take a cappuccino before I go. To calm my nerves."

Wanda turned to the machine with a soft smile. "Coming right up."

The car rolled to a slow stop on the tarmac, and the driver stepped out to open the door. Wanda slipped her phone into her purse and stepped out, immediately hit by the rush of wind and the quiet roar of jet engines in the distance.

But her eyes locked onto that jet.

Sleek, black, with an unmistakable shine that caught the light like it had been polished just for her. It looked like it belonged to someone who wore power like a tailored suit. The Fury family crest was discreet, but present, etched near the entry stairs in silver.

Wanda blinked, then actually laughed to herself. “She really sent a private jet,” she muttered, shaking her head in disbelief.

The stairs descended smoothly, and the crew member at the base offered a polite nod. “Miss Maximoff, welcome aboard.”

As she stepped inside, Wanda's breath caught.

Plush leather seats with deep cushions, arranged in pairs. Touchscreens and panel lighting. A glass partition between the cabin and cockpit. A minibar that looked better stocked than most restaurants. There was even a soft tray of fresh fruit and pastries already laid out, along with an envelope on the table that simply read: W.

She dropped onto one of the seats, sinking in like it was made just for her. Her fingers ran along the stitching, the way you’d touch something too good to be real.

“This is ridiculous,” she whispered with a grin. “Ridiculous... and kind of amazing.”

She got up, wandered a bit-curious. Touched a button and watched a screen rise silently from a hidden panel. Opened a drawer that held silk blankets and high-end headphones. Every corner had a quiet kind of elegance, like someone had personally curated the space to make it feel warm instead of just rich.

Wanda let out a stunned little laugh, looking around like she still couldn't believe it.

“I cannot believe I’m flying like this,” she said to herself. “Is this what she meant by ‘a little comfort’?”

She dropped back into the seat and kicked off her shoes, grinning up at the ceiling. There was still a flutter of nerves because traveling alone, visiting someone she wasn’t even technically dating yet she was wrapped in this strange, thrilling warmth.

And as the engines began to power up, she could only think one thing:

She really went out of her way for me.

The jet hummed beneath Wanda’s feet as she settled deeper into the leather seat, still marvelling at how everything around her felt like stepping into another world. Before she could reach for one of the pastries, a soft knock on the side of her seat drew her attention.

A flight attendant, dressed in a perfectly tailored uniform, offered her a gentle smile. “Miss Maximoff, would you care for a glass of champagne to start your flight?”

Wanda blinked. “Oh... sure. That sounds lovely.”

The attendant reached for a sleek bottle chilling in a silver bucket nearby, then poured the pale, golden liquid into a crystal flute with a practiced hand. She placed it on the table in front of Wanda along with a small dish of luxury chocolate which was rich, dark, and dusted with gold leaf like something out of a dream.

“Champagne pairs well with this,” the attendant said, gesturing to the chocolate. “Miss Fury always insists we keep the good ones stocked in case of special guests.”

Wanda gave a quiet chuckle, touched by the thought. “She really planned all this?”

“She did,” the attendant replied. “Every detail.”

Wanda took a sip, then glanced up. “If you don’t mind me asking... what’s she like? As a boss, I mean.”

The attendant’s smile turned fond, almost proud. “She’s firm. Brilliant. But always respectful. She knows every crew member’s name, asks about our families, makes sure we’re taken care of. People really like her and respect her, because she earns it.”

Wanda let the words settle into her chest, as warm as the champagne sliding down her throat.

“She’s one of the good ones,” the attendant added. “Not just powerful. Good.”

Wanda bit back a smile, her fingers grazing the edge of her glass. Her heart beat a little faster, not from the alcohol, but from the quiet confirmation that maybe - just maybe - her instincts were right.

“Thank you,” she said softly.

The attendant gave a polite nod and moved back toward the galley, leaving Wanda alone with her thoughts.

She looked down at the chocolate, then out the window at the clouds waiting above. And for the first time in a long while, the future didn’t feel uncertain. It felt like something she wanted to run toward.

As the wheels touched down with the soft thud of expertly handled landing gear, Wanda pressed a hand to the window, watching the ground blur into clarity. The sleek black car parked at the edge of the tarmac caught her attention immediately, it whispered luxury, understated but unmistakable.

She stood as the flight attendant approached once more with that same warm smile.

“Thank you for everything,” Wanda said sincerely.

“It was a pleasure flying with you, Miss Maximoff. Enjoy your time in Rotterdam.”

Wanda stepped down the stairs into a gentle breeze, sunlight kissing her skin. The pilot offered a respectful nod from the bottom of the steps, and she returned it with a smile and a polite “Thank you.”

Then her gaze landed on the figure waiting by the car, and her breath caught in her throat.

You leaned casually against the matte black sedan, sunglasses shielding your eyes but not the quiet curve of your smile. The black polo hugged your shoulders in a way that made Wanda’s face warm, and the relaxed slacks paired with those soft loafers completed what she quickly dubbed the Y/N Fury vacation edition. Still effortlessly elegant. Still entirely you. But the shift in tone was clear - this wasn’t business.

This was just you, waiting for her.

Wanda walked over, a slow smile spreading across her lips. “Hi.”

You pushed off the car smoothly, tugging your sunglasses down just enough for your eyes to meet hers. “Hi yourself.”

You opened the door for her and Wanda slid inside, heart fluttering just a little. When you joined her on the other side and the car eased into motion, she glanced at you again.

“You know,” she murmured, “I think this is the most relaxed I’ve ever seen you.”

You gave her a sidelong smile, voice low and teasing. “You haven’t seen anything yet.”

Wanda laughed, warmth spreading through her chest. Maybe she should’ve been nervous flying across countries to spend the weekend with someone she was still getting to know but sitting next to you, it just felt right. Like she’d landed in more ways than one.

Rotterdam greeted Wanda like an open secret, with the sunlight brushing the curve of the canals, petals caught mid-air in the breeze, and warmth that had nothing to do with the weather.

But it was your hand, warm and steady as you guided her inside the sleek black car, that made the city feel like something more. Something alive.

The silence between you wasn’t awkward. It never was. Wanda sat beside you with her fingers linked through yours, watching the city unfurl as the car drifted through winding streets. Tulips bloomed along windowsills. Bicycles zipped past. The water shimmered with late afternoon gold.

“I’ve never been here,” she murmured, not taking her eyes off the view.

You turned your head slightly. “Then let me show you my version of it.”

The boutique hotel loomed quiet and elegant as the car slowed to a stop. Staff greeted you both with practiced deference, but not a single soul lingered longer than necessary. Wanda noticed that. She noticed everything.

You led her through a private entrance, straight to the sun-drenched suite with canal views and scarlet tulips. She stood in the centre of the room for a long moment, just looking.

“You remembered,” she whispered, touching one of the petals.

“Of course I did.”

That Evening

Wanda stepped out of the bathroom in a soft sundress you hadn’t seen before, it was forest green, hugging her waist, the straps delicate. Her hair was still damp at the ends, curling slightly against her skin.

Your eyes found hers across the room, and you didn’t even bother hiding the way your gaze moved over her.

“You’re staring,” she said, a touch amused, a touch breathless.

“Blame the dress,” you replied, standing. “And the woman in it.”

Dinner wasn’t formal, but it was perfect. A canal-side restaurant that opened its patio just for you. You let Wanda choose the wine, and she surprised you with a confident pick. It was a crisp white with a finish that tasted like pears and citrus.

“You’ve done this before,” you said after the first sip.

“I read the menu while you were distracted,” she said with a smirk. “And maybe asked the waiter.”

You laughed, fully, and Wanda looked triumphant.

By dessert, she leaned forward, chin in her hand, eyes narrowed in curiosity. “Is this your idea of relaxing?”

You tilted your head. “What do you mean?”

“All this,” she said, gesturing at the table, the view, the soft live violin playing in the distance. “It’s beautiful. But it’s... curated. Intentional.”

You were silent for a moment. Then, softly: “I didn’t always know how to slow down. But lately, with you... I want to.”

Wanda blinked. Her heart skipped.

She reached across the table, lacing her fingers through yours again. “Then let’s slow down together.”

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

You stood in the dimly lit hotel room, the air thick with anticipation. The evening had been perfect - a seamless blend of laughter, deep conversation, and an unspoken connection that had grown stronger with every passing moment. Now, as Wanda emerged from the bathroom wrapped in a plush white bathrobe, her bare feet padding softly against the carpet, you felt the weight of the moment pressing down on you. Her green eyes met yours, and in that gaze, you saw the same unspoken awareness: something significant was about to happen.

The room seemed to shrink around you, the silence broken only by the faint hum of the air conditioning. Wanda’s bathrobe hung loosely, her fair skin glowing softly in the warm light. You felt a pull, a magnetic force drawing you toward her. Your heart raced, but your voice remained steady as you asked, “May I kiss you?” The words hung in the air, a question that felt more like a declaration.

Wanda’s lips curved into a soft smile, her eyes never leaving yours. “Yes,” she whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with certainty. You took a step forward, closing the distance between you. Her scent - a mix of lavender and something uniquely her - wrapped around you as you reached out, gently cupping her cheek. Her skin was warm under your fingertips, and you felt her lean into your touch, as if she’d been waiting for this moment just as long as you had.

The kiss was tender, a slow exploration of lips and breath. You moved with care, as if afraid of breaking the spell. Wanda’s hands found your waist, her touch light but firm, grounding you in the moment. The kiss deepened, and you felt the tension melt away, replaced by a warmth that spread through your chest. This wasn’t just a kiss - it was a turning point, a shift in the balance of your relationship.

When you finally pulled away, breathless and dazed, Wanda’s eyes searched yours. “Are you sure?” she asked, her voice trembling slightly. You nodded, your thumb brushing her jawline. “I’ve never been more sure of anything,” you replied, your voice steady despite the storm of emotions raging inside you.

She smiled, a soft, knowing smile, and took your hand, leading you toward the bed. The room felt intimate now, the air charged with possibility. You sat beside her, your legs brushing against each other, and felt the electricity of her presence. “I’ve wanted this for so long,” Wanda confessed, her fingers intertwining with yours. “But I wanted it to be right.”

“It’s right,” you assured her, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her forehead. “It’s more than right.”

The moment stretched between you, a silent agreement to take the next step. Wanda’s bathrobe slipped from her shoulders, pooling at her feet, and you found yourself drinking in the sight of her. Her body was a canvas of soft curves and delicate lines, her fair skin kissed by the faintest hint of freckles. Her breasts were full and inviting, her nipples already tight with anticipation. Your gaze lingered on the light dusting of hair between her legs, a subtle contrast to her smooth skin.

You reached out, tracing the curve of her shoulder with your fingertips. “You’re beautiful,” you murmured, your voice thick with admiration. Wanda blushed, her eyes dropping to the floor before meeting yours again. “So are you,” she replied, her hand coming up to cup your cheek.

The exploration was slow, deliberate, as if you were both afraid of rushing something so precious. You helped her remove your t-shirt, her fingers brushing your skin as she revealed more of you. Your bra followed, and you felt her breath catch at the sight of your breasts, full and heavy, your nipples pebbled with desire. Her touch was gentle, reverent, as she leaned in to kiss your collarbone, her lips trailing down to your chest.

You let out a soft sigh as her mouth closed over your nipple, her tongue swirling lazily. Her hands moved down your body, unbuttoning your pants and sliding them off your hips. You were naked now, exposed and vulnerable, but with Wanda, it felt safe. Her eyes drank you in, her expression a mix of awe and hunger.

“Your turn,” you whispered, reaching for the tie of her robe. She nodded, and you carefully undid it, letting the fabric fall away. She was stunning, her body a work of art. You traced the curve of her hip, the dip of her waist, your fingers trembling with anticipation.

“I want to taste you,” you confessed, your voice hoarse with desire. Wanda’s eyes widened, but she nodded, spreading her legs slightly as you knelt between them. Her scent was intoxicating, a mix of soap and something uniquely her. You leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her inner thigh, feeling her shiver beneath your touch.

Your lips brushed her core, gingerly at first, as if testing the waters. Wanda let out a soft gasp, her hands tangling in your hair. Encouraged, you deepened your exploration, your tongue tracing the outline of her lips before delving inside. She was wet, her arousal coating your tongue as you tasted her fully.

Wanda moaned, her hips arching off the bed. “Y/N,” she breathed, her voice a plea for more. You obliged, your tongue flicking her clit with deliberate precision. Her walls clenched around your tongue, her breath coming in sharp gasps. You sucked gently, then harder, her cries filling the room as she teetered on the edge.

“Cum for me, Wanda,” you murmured against her skin, your words sending her over the edge. She cried out, her body trembling as her orgasm washed over her. You drank her in, savouring the taste of her release, your fingers pressing into her thighs to keep her grounded.

When she finally stilled, you kissed your way back up her body, her eyes glazed with pleasure. “Your turn,” she whispered, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. You laughed, a soft, breathless sound, as she pushed you back onto the bed.

Her mouth was hungry, her kisses demanding as she explored your body with the same reverence you’d shown her. Her tongue traced your nipples, her hands roaming over your curves, before she settled between your legs. You were already wet, your body aching for her touch.

“You’re so beautiful,” she murmured, her breath ghosting over your core. You shivered, your hands tangling in her hair as she leaned in, her tongue dipping into your folds. You moaned, your hips bucking against her mouth as she sucked your clit, her fingers sliding inside you with ease.

The pleasure was overwhelming, her touch sending sparks through your body. You cried out, your voice echoing in the room as you chased your release. Wanda’s mouth was relentless, her tongue and fingers working in perfect harmony. You felt the tension coil inside you, tighter and tighter, until you shattered, your orgasm ripping through you like a storm.

Wanda drank you in, her lips pressing gentle kisses to your sensitive skin as you came down. You pulled her up, your lips crashing together in a desperate kiss, tasting yourself on her tongue. “I need more,” you gasped, your hands roaming over her body.

She smiled, her eyes dark with desire. “Anything,” she promised, her voice a husky whisper.

You rolled her onto her back, your lips trailing down her body as you settled between her legs again. This time, you took your time, your tongue mapping every inch of her, from her thighs to her clit, her moans fuelling your hunger. You sucked her clit between your lips, teasing her with your tongue, until she was squirming beneath you, her cries filling the room.

“Y/N, please,” she begged, her voice desperate. You obliged, your fingers sliding inside her as you sucked harder, her walls clenching around you as she came apart. She screamed your name, her body trembling as she squirted, her release coating your face. You lapped at her, savouring the taste of her ecstasy, your heart swelling with the knowledge that you’d brought her this pleasure.

When she finally stilled, you kissed your way back up her body, her eyes shining with love and desire. Her hands pulling you closer. You laughed, a soft, breathless sound, as you rolled onto your back, inviting her to take her turn.

She didn’t hesitate, her mouth devouring yours as she kissed her way down your body. Her tongue was magic, her touch sending you spiralling into another orgasm. You cried out, your body arching off the bed as she ate you with abandon, her fingers and mouth working in perfect sync.

The room was a blur of moans and gasps, the air thick with the scent of sex and satisfaction. You pulled her up, your lips crashing together in a desperate kiss, your bodies pressed flush against each other. “I want to feel you,” you murmured, your hands guiding her leg over your hip.

Wanda nodded, her eyes dark with desire as she pressed against you, her clit rubbing against yours. You moved together, your bodies sliding in perfect rhythm, the friction sending sparks through your core. You moaned into her mouth, your hands gripping her hips as you continued, the pleasure building with every thrust.

The room was filled with the sound of your cries, your bodies moving as one. You felt the tension coil inside you, tighter and tighter, until you both shattered, your orgasms colliding in a burst of pleasure. You screamed each other’s names, your bodies trembling as you squirted, your releases mingling on the bed.

When you finally stilled, breathless and dazed, Wanda collapsed on top of you, her lips pressing a gentle kiss to your neck. You wrapped your arms around her, holding her close as you caught your breath. The room was quiet now, the only sound your ragged breathing and the soft hum of the air conditioning.

You turned your head, meeting her gaze. Her eyes were soft, filled with love and wonder. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. You smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Thank you,” you replied, your voice just as soft.

You kissed her then, a gentle, tender kiss that spoke of everything you couldn’t put into words. It was a kiss that said I love you, I’m here, I’m yours. And as you held her in your arms, the world outside fading away, you knew that this was just the beginning.

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

The soft rustle of linen is the first thing you notice.

Then warmth.

Not just the kind tangled in the sheets or the lingering heat of shared sleep but the kind that roots itself in the chest. Slow. Safe. Real.

Wanda shifts beside you, barely awake, her arm draped across your waist, her forehead nestled against your shoulder. Her breath is steady; her lips parted in sleep. A single sunbeam cuts across the room, falling over her bare back, painting her in gold.

You don’t move. Not yet. Maybe not for a long time.

Your hand finds hers under the covers, fingers curling instinctively. Her skin is warm, soft, familiar now in a way it hadn’t been yesterday.

Last night was...

No, it wasn’t just anything. It was everything.

Every wall you'd built around yourself softened in her touch. Every part of you that lived in shadows had been coaxed into light.

You turn your head just slightly, enough to press a kiss to her temple. Wanda hums quietly at the contact, stretching like a cat before her eyes flutter open.

“Mm… good morning,” she murmurs, voice still heavy with sleep.

You smile. “Morning, sunshine.”

She smiles too, but it’s slower, more vulnerable like she’s checking to see if last night really happened. Like part of her expects you to be gone.

But you’re here.

Still beside her.

Still holding her.

“Do you always wake up looking this smug?” she asks, squinting at you with mock suspicion.

You raise a brow. “Only when I have good dreams.”

Wanda lets out a low laugh and buries her face against your shoulder. “God, we’re gross.”

“Disgusting,” you agree, grinning as you tighten your arm around her. “Should probably never leave this bed.”

“Agreed,” she says without hesitation, her hand now tracing idle patterns on your stomach beneath the covers. “Although... I promised Pietro I’d text him. He’s probably pacing back and forth somewhere.”

You chuckle. “Let him pace.”

She peeks up at you then, serious all of a sudden. “Last night…”

You meet her gaze, steady and sure. “Was real.”

She nods. “Yeah. It was.”

Neither of you rush to fill the silence that follows. It’s comfortable. Earned. A rhythm the two of you fell into without ever really trying.

But even as you breathe her in, her scent, her presence, you feel it.

That tug.

That quiet reminder that your world is still out there. Waiting. Watching.

Wanda doesn’t know yet.

She doesn't know about the shadows. The syndicate. The weight you carry with every calculated move.

But she will.

Eventually.

And when she does... you hope nights like this will be enough to hold onto.

The quiet hum of the morning is broken by the sharp buzz of your phone.

You almost don’t move. Wanda’s still curled against you, the warmth of her skin grounding you in a world you never want to leave. But the sound persists, vibrating with urgency on the nightstand.

You reach for it with a reluctant hand, hoping it’s nothing.

It’s not.

The caller ID reads Clint.

Your stomach tightens.

You answer, already moving to sit up.

“What happened?”

His voice is tight. Controlled. But you know him too well.

“It’s Nat. She’s in the hospital.”

The breath leaves your body.

“The official word is Car accident.” But you both know it wasn’t just that.

You swing your legs over the side of the bed, your mind already racing through scenarios, enemies, and unfinished business. Your body moves faster than your thoughts. You’re on your feet before the call ends.

“Send me everything. I’m leaving now.”

Wanda sits up behind you, the sheets falling from her shoulders, concern etched across her face.

“Y/N…?”

You turn, your phone already at your ear again as you call your crew.

“Prep the jet. We’re leaving within the hour. Medical crew standby. I want our people at the hospital before I land.”

You hang up, then face her.

“I’m sorry. I have to go. It’s Natasha. She’s been hospitalised.”

Wanda steps off the bed and crosses the room to you. Her hands reach for yours, steady and sure.

“Hey,” she says gently. “You don’t have to explain. Family comes first.”

You search her eyes for anything- hurt, frustration, hesitation. But all you find is quiet strength. Understanding.

The engines are already humming when you arrive. Your jet sits sleek and silent, the crew in motion as your world prepares to shift again.

You and Wanda, walk across the tarmac side by side, her coat wrapped tightly around her frame, your hand lightly resting on her back as if to remind yourself she’s real.

At the steps, you pause for a moment, your gaze drifting to the horizon. You can feel it already, the storm waiting on the other side of the sky. The war at your doorstep.

Wanda’s hand finds yours. She squeezes once.

You turn to her, brushing a loose strand of hair from her cheek.

“Thank you for coming with me.”

She leans in, her voice close to your ear. “Where you go, I go.”

And with that, you both board the jet.

The sky waits. So does the truth.

The jet touches down just after sunrise. The city feels sharper than it did when you left, like everything you had managed to soften for a moment has returned with edges. You drive straight from the airstrip to the hospital, your jaw tight, your grip on the wheel like a lifeline.

Wanda sits beside you, quiet but steady. You glance at her once during a red light. Her hand is resting on her lap, her eyes fixed on the passing city.

“You don’t have to come in,” you say gently.

She turns to you. “I want to.”

No hesitation. No fear. Just understanding.

The moment you step into the hospital lobby, you are already in motion. You leave instructions with your people to secure the perimeter and head to the ICU wing, pausing only long enough to speak with the lead physician. Wanda stays where you asked her to, just past the waiting area near a line of windows washed in morning light.

She doesn’t look nervous. She just waits.

Someone steps into her line of sight a few minutes later. Tall. Measured. Eye patch. Sharp coat and sharper silence.

Nick Fury.

He stops a few feet from her, his gaze steady.

“Wanda Maximoff,” he says.

She nods, straightens slightly. “Yes.”

“I know who you are,” he continues. “You’re important to her.”

Wanda’s lips part, unsure if it’s a question or a statement.

Nick doesn’t smile, but his tone softens. Just enough.

“I’m her father.”

A breath catches in Wanda’s throat, but she doesn’t flinch.

“I figured,” she says softly. “You don’t have to worry. I’m not here to make things complicated.”

Nick studies her for another moment, then nods once. It’s not approval. It’s something quieter. Permission, maybe.

“She wouldn’t have brought you here if you weren’t already part of this,” he says. “And I trust her judgment.”

That’s all.

He steps past her, disappearing around the corner as silently as he arrived.

You return shortly after, your expression unreadable but your presence grounding. Wanda rises to her feet the moment she sees you.

“She’s stable,” you say. “Bruised ribs, broken wrist, concussion. It could have been worse.”

Wanda nods, brushing her fingers gently against your sleeve.

You don’t say anything more as you lead her down the hallway. Clint sees you in passing and gives a small nod. Bruce looks up from his chair and offers a quiet glance in acknowledgment. No one questions who she is. No one needs to.

You reach the room. The door is cracked open.

You step inside. Together.

Inside, the room is quiet, save for the steady rhythm of the heart monitor. The lights are low, the sterile scent of antiseptic hanging faintly in the air. Natasha lies pale against the white sheets, her left wrist wrapped in bandages, a bruise blooming along her collarbone.

Yelena is seated beside her, hunched forward with her elbows on her knees. Her head is bowed, hands clenched. Her eyes are red. It’s the kind of look she would punch someone for pointing out, but you see it clearly. You see all of her.

The moment her gaze lifts and meets yours, she stands and crosses the room in two strides. Her arms wrap around you without a word, and she buries her face against your shoulder.

"Ty zdes', spasibo Bogu," she mumbles into your neck.

You hold her close, one hand cupping the back of her head, the other steady on her back.

"Vsyo khorosho, Yel-bear. Ya zdes'. Ya s toboy," you whisper.

Yelena tightens her grip for a second, then lets go with a sharp breath and wipes her face. She nods toward the bed and steps back, keeping her eyes on Natasha.

Wanda stays quiet beside you, her expression unreadable. You can feel her watching you, and you know the moment she starts piecing things together. When you spoke Russian, it wasn’t with hesitation. It was fluent. Familiar.

Her voice is soft, curious. “You speak Russian?”

You glance at her. “I do.”

She looks at you a little longer. You know she is thinking back. Sokovian. The night on the rooftop. Every sweet, vulnerable thing she said in a language she thought was hers alone.

“You understood all of it,” she says quietly, almost to herself.

You nod. “Every word.”

Her mouth opens, then closes again, the flush on her cheeks blooming fast. You see the storm of embarrassment rising behind her eyes, but you reach for her hand.

“I never wanted to take that from you,” you say. “I just liked hearing you speak what felt like home.”

Wanda nods slowly, lips parting with a quiet exhale. She doesn’t say anything more, but she walks over to the side of the bed and places a small bundle of tulips by Natasha’s bedside. The stems are wrapped in ribbon, trembling slightly in her hands.

Natasha’s eyes flutter open. She blinks at the light, then focuses slowly on the three of you.

Her gaze slides to Wanda, then to you, and a weak smirk curves the edge of her lips.

“So,” she rasps. “She’s real.”

You roll your eyes, stepping closer. “Told you.”

Natasha’s smirk deepens just a little. “Didn’t think you’d bring her to a war zone.”

“She wanted to be here.”

Wanda turns to you, but before she can speak, you gently touch her arm.

“Can I have a minute with her?”

Wanda glances at Natasha, then at you, and gives a small nod. “Of course.”

You look at Yelena.

“Take her to get some coffee. I won’t be long.”

Yelena hesitates, eyes flicking to her sister, then to you. She gives a small nod and walks over to Wanda. The two of them leave the room without a word.

You watch the door close behind them, then pull the chair closer to the bed and sit.

You reach out and brush a few strands of hair away from her forehead. Your fingers are gentle, slow, the way they never get to be when it comes to her. There’s a pause before your hand settles against her cheek.

“Why are you always scaring me, sestra moya?”

Natasha closes her eyes for a moment at the sound of it, like the words are heavier than she expected. Her face leans into your palm, just a little.

“I didn’t plan it,” she murmurs, voice low and dry.

You let your thumb trace along the edge of her jaw. The bruises look worse in this light, but she is alive. That is all you care about right now.

After a quiet breath, your voice shifts.

“Tell me who.”

Her eyes open again, sharp and clear despite the pain.

“Castillo.”

The name drops like lead.

You sit back slowly, letting it settle.

“He’s out for revenge,” Natasha continues.

You nod once. You don’t need the details. The message is clear.

Your voice lowers, colder now. “He’ll regret this.”

Natasha doesn’t respond. She knows better than to doubt it.

You stand, pulling the blanket a little higher on her shoulder, your fingers lingering for a second longer than necessary.

“Get some rest,” you say softly. “I’ve got the rest.”

Her eyes follow you as you move toward the door.

“I know you do.”

You glance back at her once, the promise already burning behind your eyes.

Then you leave, ready to make good on it.

Night swallows the skyline as you step into the dark.

The cold metal of your weapon rests against your thigh. Your coat moves like a second skin. There is no wind tonight. Just silence, hanging thick above the city like a warning.

You give the order. One word.

“Now.”

Your team spreads through the city like fire through dry brush. Clint on overwatch, his scope sweeping rooftops with machine precision. Yelena moving between shadows with two blades strapped across her back. Bruce rides co-pilot with the muscle, already tense with rage waiting to be unleashed.

The location comes in. An abandoned meatpacking plant in Queens, repurposed as a supply hub for Castillo’s crew.

You arrive first.

The metal door swings open with a groan. The inside smells like blood and grease. You can hear boots scuffling. Laughter. A low radio buzz. They don’t know you are here yet.

The first man turns the corner and never sees it coming.

You bury a blade under his jaw, twist, and pull it free. His body folds with a wet thud.

Another appears, raising a pistol. You shoot him clean through the skull. Bone cracks, and he drops like a puppet with its strings cut.

Screams rise. Confusion spreads. That’s when it starts.

You move through the hall with deadly rhythm. One shot to the chest. Two to the face. A throat slit so deep the sound gurgles wet and slow before silence falls again. You step over twitching limbs. You fire into movement without blinking. A hand reaches for a weapon, and you crush it under your boot before pulling the trigger into the man’s neck.

Yelena appears on your left. Her knives are red already, her expression blank.

“They were still laughing,” she says flatly. “Not anymore.”

Clint’s voice comes in through the comm.

“Upper level clear. They ran straight into me.”

You enter the back corridor. The hallway is narrow. The men packed together.

Bad choice.

You unload six rounds into their legs first, watching them fall, broken and screaming. You walk past the ones who beg. Your aim is flawless. One bullet each. Eyes. Mouths. Hearts.

By the time you reach the center of the compound, blood coats the floor in thick streaks. It clings to your boots, seeps into the soles. You do not care.

Castillo is not here. The coward ran.

But his people didn’t. And now they will never leave this place.

Bruce and your clean-up crew arrive last. There is nothing left to secure. No survivors. No doubts.

Fifty-three confirmed dead.

Your side? Not one scratch.

You walk through the aftermath in silence. The orange glow of fire from the upper office reflects in broken glass. Ash floats through the air like dirty snow.

You reach the central support beam near the back wall. Blood still drips nearby, pooling beneath the shattered remains of Castillo’s second-in-command. The stench of gunpowder and death clings to everything.

You pull a knife from your belt. It’s the same blade your father once carried. Heavy. Balanced. Sharp enough to slice through bones.

You drive it into the wall and start to carve. Each stroke is deliberate. Deep. Rough.

You do not write Fury.

You write your name.

Your original name.

Y/L/N

The name that once ruled this city before you were old enough to hold a gun. The name whispered with fear behind closed doors. The name that should have died with your parents.

It didn’t.

You kept it alive.

Now they will remember.

Not just who did this.

But where you come from.

You don’t look back as you walk out.

Let the city whisper.

Let it kneel.

It had been three days since the warehouse burned.

Three days since you signed your name into blood and concrete. Since you reminded the city that you were not your father's shadow, but something sharper. Louder. Deadlier.

The café is unusually quiet when you step inside. The air is warm, the scent of vanilla and sugar still clinging to the walls. Sunlight filters through the windows, soft and golden. Wanda stands behind the counter, hair pulled back, sleeves rolled to her elbows. She looks up the moment you enter, and her smile is instant.

You walk up to the counter, letting your hands rest on the edge as she finishes frothing milk into a small ceramic cup.

“You okay?” you ask.

She pauses for just a second before nodding. “Yeah. It’s just... been quiet today. Feels strange.”

You nod slowly. That strange feeling? It has been sitting at the base of your neck since you got out of the car.

You glance at the front windows. The street outside looks the same as always. Clean. Calm. But something scratches at your instincts.

“Maybe it's the weather,” Wanda says, her voice soft.

You don’t answer. Your eyes are still on the glass.

Then you hear it.

Tires. Screeching. Fast. Too fast.

Your hand is already reaching for the holster inside your coat.

Three black cars come flying around the corner, engines roaring. They slam to a stop outside the café. Doors fly open.

Then everything explodes.

Gunfire erupts like thunder. Bullets slam into the windows. Glass shatters inward. Screams. Splinters. The coffee machine explodes behind Wanda. You grab her without thinking and throw her to the floor just as bullets rip through the air where she had been standing.

Her breath hits your neck. Your arm wraps around her head, shielding it with your body.

She doesn’t scream. She just clutches your shirt with trembling fingers.

Outside, the shooters reload.

Your rage is already boiling.

You are going to kill every last one of them.

The second the last shot rings out, you are already moving.

Your hand pulls the pistol from inside your coat. The safety clicks off with a metallic snap. Your pulse pounds against your skull like war drums.

But before you can fire, the cars screech again. Tires peel against asphalt. Engines roar as the shooters dive back into their vehicles and vanish down the street.

Gone.

Cowards.

You rise from where you had shielded Wanda, gun still in your grip, finger still near the trigger.

Your blood is boiling.

You want to chase. You want to hunt. But something worse holds you in place.

You turn to her.

Wanda is sitting upright now, her back pressed against the counter, hands shaking where they clutch her knees. Her eyes are wide. Not with fear of the attack, but with something else.

Her gaze drops to your hand.

Your weapon.

You freeze.

Slowly, carefully, you lower the gun and place it on the counter. Your breath is ragged, your voice low.

“Are you hurt?”

She doesn’t answer.

You reach out, your fingers aching to touch her, to ground her, to reassure her.

But the moment your hand nears her shoulder, she flinches.

Your heart cracks so cleanly it feels like it echoes in your chest.

You pull back immediately.

“I’m sorry,” you whisper.

Wanda shakes her head once, but still does not speak. Her lips press tightly together. Her chest rises and falls too fast.

You do not ask her to understand. You just help her stand, gently, carefully, like handling glass already cracked.

You decide to drop her at Pietro’s Apartment. The car ride is quiet. She says nothing. You do not fill the silence.

Pietro opens the door before you even knock. His eyes snap between the two of you, instantly alert. He sees the tremor in his sister's hands.

“What happened?” he asks, voice sharp.

You place your hand lightly on Wanda’s back, guiding her inside.

“I need you both to leave the city. Tonight. Go somewhere quiet. Somewhere safe. Just for a few days.”

Pietro looks like he is about to argue, but something in your tone keeps him silent.

Wanda finally speaks. “Y/N-”

You step back from the doorway, the distance already beginning to burn.

“I’ll call when it’s clear.”

You turn before she can say another word. Before you see anything in her eyes that might stop you.

The door shuts behind you.

You slide into the driver’s seat, your hands gripping the wheel before the door even shuts. The engine hums low beneath your feet, but you do not pull away just yet.

You pull out your phone, hit a number you know by muscle memory, and press it to your ear.

Clint picks up on the second ring.

You do not waste time.

“One question. Who?”

There is a pause. Not hesitation, just confirmation.

“Castillo,” Clint says. “He put the order in last night. Hired guns, all local. We’re tracking the license plates now.”

You nod slowly, staring ahead through the windshield.

“I want everyone in. Now.”

“You mean-”

“All hands-on deck.”

You end the call and finally start driving.

Later at SHIELD Upper Level, War Room

The room is full when you arrive.

The table is long, steel, cold. Every chair around it is filled.

Maria Hill stands with her arms crossed, eyes sharp as glass. Yelena sits beside her, jaw clenched, still in her tac gear. Clint nods at you from the far side. Steve Rogers is already reviewing satellite feeds on a tablet. Tony taps impatiently on the edge of his chair. Bruce says nothing but looks like he hasn't slept in two days. Kate Bishop leans against the wall, her arms folded across her chest, silent for once. Thor stands near the windows, posture rigid. Loki lounges nearby, unreadable but present. Even that means something.

At the far end, Natasha sits upright in a chair brought in for her. Bandages wrap her wrist and ribs. One eye is bruised, but her stare is steady.

You step to the head of the table.

No greetings. No pleasantries.

“This morning, Castillo made a move on me. He tried to hit me where he thought I’d be vulnerable. He missed.”

You pause, letting the weight of your words settle.

“But he hit close. Too close.”

The room stays quiet, watching.

“He did not just attack me. He attacked the café. He’s made it clear he does not fear consequences.”

You look around the table, eyes locking with each of theirs.

“He’s about to learn the price of that mistake.”

The strategy continues around the table, voices moving fast, plans overlapping like loaded chambers. You let them work. Let them sharpen the edges.

But you know this won’t be enough.

This needs more than precision.

It needs brutality.

It needs finality.

You step away from the table, further into the shadows of the upper level, where the hum of electronics fades behind concrete and distance. You reach into your pocket and pull out the old phone. No biometrics. No apps. Just a number pad and one saved contact.

You press call.

It rings once.

Then silence.

No hello.

No breath.

Just waiting.

You speak.

“Castle?”

Ty zdes', spasibo Bogu - You are here, thank God

Vsyo khorosho, Yel-bear. Ya zdes'. Ya s toboy - It's okay, Yel-bear. I'm here. I'm with you.

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