#precise coordinate calculations for characters

[lifeinked]

Why I Love Caitlyn, and Why You Hate Her

⚠️ READER DISCRETION: I am not condoning Caitlyn’s actions and behavior, I am simply exploring the depth of her character and explaining what motivated her pursuit of revenge.

There’s no denying the gravity of Caitlyn’s actions as they are unquestionably wrong. However, her character cannot be reduced to these actions alone. This sudden, devastating behavior of hers is shaped by a thread of complex motivations and circumstances, but many choose not to acknowledge this simply because of her elite background. 

Like many others, I initially overlooked the point of the gassing in Zaun, which I think is a crucial thing everyone must first understand before diving into the discourse over Caitlyn's character. 

The Grey, often misunderstood as being used indiscriminately, was strategically deployed against the Chem-Barons to limit collateral damage. Caitlyn chose precision over chaos, targeting those directly responsible for Zaun’s turmoil. Furthermore, Caitlyn didn’t kill the Chem-Barons; she captured them, with net-deploying bullets. While her methods are controversial, they reflect a calculated approach; mischaracterizing her raid as a reckless attack ignores these details.

This isn’t to deny or excuse the fact that Caitlyn did, indeed, gas Zaun. Who’s to say that gas didn’t seep into the streets where innocent Zaunites roamed, harming them in the process? It’s entirely possible that innocents were affected and devastated. However, my brief explanation is only added to gain better perspective over the objectives of the gassing itself.

Now moving on, despite her privileged upbringing, Caitlyn shows a genuine effort to understand and connect with Zaunites. She places her trust in Vi, a Zaunite she’s never met before, to guide her in her search for Silco. Her journey through the undercity opens her eyes to the struggles of its people, challenging her perspective.

In S1E4, when investigating the airship attack, she encounters an undercity resident and reassures him, “I can protect you.” Later in the season, when Vi gets stabbed, Caitlyn encounters someone formerly connected to Vi. He’s grown a distaste over himself due to his appearance, and yet Caitlyn embraces him with compassion and tenderness, as a silent sign of gratitude. Then, she surrenders her cherished firearm—her only means of protection—in return for a healing potion to save Vi. In S1E7, Caitlyn’s heartfelt monologue in her conversation with Ekko perfectly captures her hope and determination: “This city needs healing. More than I ever realized. Please, let me help you.”

When Caitlyn and Vi stand in front of the Council, Caitlyn declares: “Councilors, this is Vi. She was born in the undercity. Even though we failed her in countless ways, she risked everything to show me what life is really like down there. People are starving, sick, ravaged by Shimmer. They live in constant fear of the coordinated efforts of violent crime lords.” This monologue alone shows how Caitlyn embodies optimism, believing in the inherent goodness of people, even Zaunites. It also shows that she is very willing to fight for them; she sees helping Zaunites as an act of bringing justice and equality into this world.

Many overlook the depth of Cassandra and Caitlyn’s relationship, reducing it to a simple narrative of a daughter mourning her mother. However, Caitlyn’s mourning is more layered than that. Throughout her life, she has been rebellious, driven by a desire to uncover the reality her mother tried to shield her from. In S1E4, Caitlyn reflects on this by saying, “She’d do anything to keep me from seeing the real world.” Caitlyn’s defiance wasn’t just rebellion for its own sake—it was a stand for her ideals. She sought enlightenment and understanding, even if it meant stepping outside the privileged bubble her mother built for her. By venturing into the undercity and aligning herself with Vi, Caitlyn rejected her mother's own ideals.

Here's another scene in S1E8 that emphasizes this:

Cassandra: You're a Councilor's daughter. Your actions reflect on the entire body. Caitlyn: My actions? You know what else reflects on the Council? Its citizens living on the streets. Being poisoned. Having to chose between a kingpin who wants to exploit them and a government who doesn't give a shit!

In a way, her actions mirror Vi’s: just as Vi betrayed her people by working with the enforcers, Caitlyn betrayed her own mother by involving herself with Zaunites. Remember: The last time we see Caitlyn and Cassandra interact on-screen is during Caitlyn’s plea before the Council. And in that moment, Caitlyn was fighting to protect the very kind that would soon kill her own mother.

You say that Caitlyn’s drastic shift is unjustified, as she’s only experienced a fraction of the suffering Zaunites have been enduring. But that’s precisely the point! Her transformation shows how personal loss can drive the change of one’s entire character; she’s never experienced loss before which is why it feels so heavy for her. And unlike Zaunites, Caitlyn actually has the power to act on her grief. Zaunites have only known misery their whole lives. When their loved one dies, they know there is nothing more they can do but grieve. They don’t have an inch of the privilege and military support Caitlyn has. If you had given them the same resources as Caitlyn, they wouldn’t hesitate to bring ruin to Piltover. Simply put, they don’t fight Piltovans because they don’t want to, but because they can’t.

When Jinx takes her mother away, her compassionate ideals completely shatter. Having always sought justice and understanding for Zaun, Caitlyn feels deeply betrayed, as her faith in the good within every Zaunite is overturned. Her mother’s death becomes a turning point—driving her to abandon her ideals and adopt Piltover’s disdain for the undercity, finally understanding the resentment many Piltovans harbor.

We also tend to forget that, aside from losing her mother, Caitlyn has directly suffered under the hands of Jinx. Caitlyn was held captive by Jinx in Season 1—and God knows what was done to her during that period. In the tea party scene, we see Caitlyn break down in tears, visibly flinching when Jinx moves toward her. It’s clear that Jinx has traumatized Caitlyn not just once, but twice. These experiences deeply shape Caitlyn’s actions moving forward. The pain and fear she’s endured push her to a place where she’s willing to sacrifice almost anything, even if it means putting a child’s life at risk (Isha's) or severing ties with Vi.

While they share their differences, Caitlyn and Jinx are the perfect example of foil characters. Here’s an instance which proves this: Both allow themselves to be influenced by manipulative, powerful figures all while being in a vulnerable state of mind.

Jinx is haunted by guilt; her attempt to save her family only ended up killing them, leaving her with the crushing weight of self-blame. She clings to Silco, not because he was the father she needed, but because he was the father she wanted. Silco indulged her destructive tendencies, keeping her at an all-time high on the edges of chaos. Fragile and broken, Powder crossed paths with Silco at the right moment; he saw the perfect chance to mold her into someone bewildered, unrestrained, and astray.

Caitlyn has her own Silco: Ambessa, the ruthless Noxian leader with a brutal philosophy of war. Ambessa enters Caitlyn’s life at a pivotal moment, stepping in just as Caitlyn is grappling with the devastating loss of her mother. In a spiral of self-identity, Caitlyn struggles with the weight of Piltover’s expectations and her unresolved guilt over her strained relationship with her mother (as explained in previous paragraphs). Just as young Powder mourns her family, Caitlyn blames herself for the death of her mother. Caitlyn got herself involved with the Zaunites even when she was warned not to, and at the expense of her defiance came the death of her mother. Driven by guilt and a thirst for vengeance, Caitlyn steps fully into her role, declaring in S2E1: “I am a decorated officer. Leader of House Kiramman.”

Jinx and Caitlyn share a tragic parallel: they both lose everyone they hold dear. Jinx loses Vi, Vander, Claggor, and Mylo. Caitlyn is left without Cassandra, Vi, Jayce, Mel, and Tobias. Stripped of their support systems, they are left isolated, with no one to confide in or rely on. They become vulnerable, used as pawns in the larger schemes of Silco and Ambessa’s strategic games.

Caitlyn's inner turmoil is exactly why Ambessa’s manipulation is so effective. Caitlyn is compelled to take revenge, but she doesn’t know how to. And without anyone else to guide her, she places her complete trust in Ambessa's expertise. Ambessa doesn’t just give Caitlyn the authority and power to avenge her mother; she teaches her how to use them to their full potential. She toys with Caitlyn's vulnerability, making her adopt the Noxian values of wrath, bloodshed, and ruthlessness. 

It’s easy to downplay Caitlyn’s grief since she comes from an elite upbringing. While Cassandra Kiramman is laid to rest in a golden casket with a proper burial, countless innocents in Zaun become victims of merciless violence, being left to die on the streets. After the timeskip however, Caitlyn is shown to recognize the moral cost of her actions. Though the series portrays this realization subtly, it becomes evident that Caitlyn is grappling with the inhumanity and immorality of her pursuit of revenge. In S2E4, this internal conflict comes to light during her conversation with Ambessa. When Ambessa attempts to stoke her fury again, Caitlyn disarms her with a piercing question: “Why is peace always the justification for violence?”

Here's another scene that subtly depicts her realization and remorse:

Caitlyn: You're a monster. Why? Why do all this? Singed: Why does anyone commit acts others deem unspeakable? ... For love.

When Caitlyn steps further and sees Orianna, she realizes that Singed's revenge is a reflection of her own: a person grieving the death of their family member. Here, there's a saddened glint in her eyes. She finally understands now, that love and grief made her do things that once seemed so foreign to her. In this case, going against her own principles just to succeed in her revenge.

Caitlyn is now forever haunted by the outcome of her mistakes, but she knows her past cannot be erased. During her confrontation with Jinx in the prison, she admits, “No amount of good deeds can undo our crimes.” While this statement is directed at Jinx, it feels like Caitlyn also holds this against herself for her own wrongdoings. 

Caitlyn’s acts of atonement are done quietly. She’s not good with words; she’s bad at articulating how she feels. Ironically, Vi is much better than Caitlyn when it comes to confronting and vocalizing internal conflict. So instead, Caitlyn’s actions speak for herself. By removing the guards at the prison, she tacitly allows Vi the opportunity to rescue Jinx. She knows Vi will come to save her sister, and yet she lets her. She finally lets go of Jinx and the grudge she held against her, as a silent act of her love for Vi.

And in S2E9, Sevika is shown to be sitting among the Councilors. But thanks to a fan's keen eyes, we find out that she is sat particularly on Cassandra Kiramman's chair (which not many notice). By allowing a Zaunite to occupy her mother's seat, Caitlyn gives them a chance to be rightfully represented, a chance for their voices and suffering to finally be heard. It’s a quiet display of Caitlyn’s evolution and willingness to bridge the divide between Piltover and Zaun.

That said, Arcane’s ending left much to be desired regarding Caitlyn’s arc. The heavy focus on Hextech overshadowed the sociopolitical dynamics of Piltover and Zaun. This is the main reason a lot of hate is thrown toward Caitlyn—there is an act of accountability, but there a lack of consequence. While Caitlyn acknowledges her mistakes, her privileged status keeps her from real repercussions, unlike the tragedy other characters had to face. This is frustrating, even to me, as someone whose favorite character is Caitlyn. Yet, in a way, it realistically portrays the inequalities in our own world—where the elite are often shielded from justice, and repentance is the closest they ever come to redemption.

[eiralunaire]

𝙳𝚊𝚖𝚒𝚊𝚗 𝚆𝚊𝚢𝚗𝚎/𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛/Flatline.

𝚆𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐: very fucking long episode, love complications

It's been months since the Lazarus Island Tournament ended. Damian Wayne, the young heir to the League of Assassins and now bearer of the mantle of Robin, has returned to Gotham. However, his mind hasn't been entirely on the shadows of the city or the nightly missions he's continued to fulfill alongside Nightwing and the other heroes of the Bat-Family. Something distracts him: Reader, the mysterious girl he met on the island, whose bloodbending power left him fascinated by both her skill and her indomitable character.

On his first day back in Gotham, Damian had hoped to find clues about Reader. He dove into his combat and training routine, but none of the activities that normally calmed him offered relief. Reader was different. In the tournament, he had seen her use her power with lethal precision, manipulating the blood in her opponents' veins to gain the advantage by killing them, whether by exploding blood vessels, stopping or equally exploding hearts or stopping blood circulation. What had surprised him the most was her detachment and indifference in doing all this with her skills, simply plotting her strategy and executing it without further ado, not to mention that Reader was one of the most difficult competitors, not to mention almost impossible to defeat due to her bloodbending power.

The nights in Gotham grew long and lonely. Every time Damian patrolled the rooftops, he felt a growing frustration. His contacts around the world knew nothing of Reader. Neither the League of Assassins nor the Bat-Computer databases had any record of her. She had vanished after the tournament as if she had never existed. Sometimes, during the quieter hours of the morning, when Gotham slept and he remained alert, he felt as if the shadow of her memory was stalking him. He remembered the last moment on the island, when they had exchanged a look that promised more, but neither had said a word.

On his patrols, he unconsciously searched for any trace that might lead him to her. Gotham had its own darkness, but Reader possessed a shadow that felt different, more dangerous and fascinating at the same time.

Damian couldn’t help but train harder than usual. Sometimes, his teammates would notice his intensity, but no one would say anything. His obsession consumed him. Deep down, he knew something inside him had changed since the island. He admired not only his power, but Reader’s fierce independence, her ability to fight without relying on anyone, her refusal to follow the path others imposed.

In one such nightly session, practicing in the Bat-Cave, Damian would hit the punching bag with a suppressed fury. The dull sound of the blows echoed in the empty cave. “Where are you?” he asked himself, each blow driven by the frustration of not having found her yet.

As he trained, his mind drifted back to the tournament: how Reader always remained calm, even when the odds were against him. He remembered how, in a fight, she had stood by his side to face the League’s enemies, no coordination or words needed. It was as if they both knew exactly what to do. That implicit connection had surprised him, something rare in his life full of control and discipline.

But after those moments shared in the arena, she had left without a trace.

Damian was not one to leave loose ends. Despite his cold facade and calculating mindset, the truth was that Reader had touched him in a deeper place than he wanted to admit. He didn't know if what he felt for her was attraction, respect, or something else, but the truth was that she didn't leave his mind.

Every night that passed without a lead increased his desperation. Was she okay? Why had she disappeared so suddenly after the tournament? What could he do to find her?

One night, as he looked out over the city from the top of a building, with the night breeze hitting his face, Damian did something he rarely did: he allowed himself to feel. He let the weight of uncertainty and desire overwhelm him for a moment. He closed his eyes and remembered the feeling of being close to her, of fighting together in the arena, of watching her wield her power with deadly grace.

He knew he had to find her. Not because of his own obsession, but because he felt there was something more to her, something he had to understand. And though he didn't know when or how, Damian Wayne, the young Robin, swore at that moment that he wouldn't rest until he crossed paths with Reader again, and that was a promise he was willing to keep.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

It was a night like any other in Gotham: the air heavy with the smell of smoke and rain, the distant sound of sirens, and the dark silhouette of Robin jumping between the rooftops, patrolling the city. Damian was more focused than ever. His search for Reader had him distracted, more than he would like to admit. No criminal in the city had been able to offer him the release he sought, and every night that passed without any leads on her made him more frustrated. But something was about to change.

As he watched from above an alley on the outskirts of downtown, he saw a figure he hadn't expected to find. A familiar figure, who moved with an agility and confidence similar to his own: Flatline. Damian couldn't forget the last meeting they had on Lazarus Island. Flatline had been there too, always by Reader's side, so close that even someone like him could notice the connection between them.

Flatline, her silver hair shining in the dim streetlights and her black attire, roamed the streets of Gotham on a mission of her own, though what it was, Damian didn't know. But he did know one thing: Flatline might be the key to finding Reader. He silently jumped down, landing in front of her, cutting her off.

"Flatline," he said coldly, though her heart was beating a little faster than usual. "We need to talk."

Flatline raised an eyebrow, somewhat surprised but not intimidated. It had been quite a while since she'd seen him, but she wasn't one to be easily intimidated. "What's wrong, Robin? I wasn't expecting you around here. Are you in the mood for a fight or just bored?"

Damian didn't fall for the banter. "I'm not looking for a fight. I want to know about Reader. I know you know where she is."

Flatline froze for a second, her amused expression fading quickly. Reader's name had changed the tone of the conversation. She fell silent, staring at him, as if she were deciding what to say or how to handle the situation. The tension was palpable.

"I haven't seen Reader since Lazarus Island," she finally answered, her tone more serious than Damian expected. "I don't know where she is."

Damian frowned, clearly annoyed by the answer. "Don't lie to me, Flatline. The last time I saw you two together, before the tournament ended… I saw what happened between you two." Her words carried a hint of defiance, and the memory came back to him sharply: Flatline, kissing Reader in a moment of farewell, just before they each went their separate ways. It had been an unexpected kiss, and though Damian hadn't wanted to eavesdrop, the fact had stuck with him, adding another layer of complexity to his own confusion about Reader.

Flatline tensed visibly. "That's none of your business, Robin. What happened between Reader and me doesn't change the fact that I don't know where she is now." Her words were sharp, but there was also a small crack in her voice, as if Reader's absence was affecting her more than she cared to admit. Her gaze hardened, but Damian could see that she wasn't lying. Flatline really didn't know anything.

The silence between them stretched out, and Damian crossed his arms, sizing her up. Flatline had always been a skilled and lethal fighter, but behind that strength was a vulnerability that he could now read clearly. The fact that she was also searching for Reader, perhaps just as desperately as he was, didn't make him feel any better. If Flatline, who had been so close to Reader, didn't know where she was, that only made things more complicated.

"I thought if anyone would know anything about her, it would be you," Damian said, his tone softer, but no less determined. "You two were together all the time on the island."

Flatline let out a sigh, crossing her arms as she looked at him with a mix of frustration and resignation. "Believe me, if I knew where she was, I would have found her already. After the tournament, Reader left without telling me where. I thought she would go somewhere on her own, or maybe hide for a while. But it's been too long. And believe me, I'm looking for her too."

Damian heard the genuine concern in her voice. Flatline was being sincere, something she rarely showed. And while she didn't normally trust others easily, he could see they were in the same situation.

"Do you know anything that could help?" he asked, less demanding now and more cooperative. "Anything."

Flatline pondered for a few moments, looking out at the horizon, as if trying to recall details that might have gone unnoticed at the time. "All I know is that Reader had no intention of staying in contact with anyone. Not even me. I knew she would leave, but I didn't think she would just vanish like that. It's part of her nature… to disappear when she needs to. But something's not right. I feel it too."

Damian nodded, though his frustration was still lingering. He hadn't gotten the answer he was hoping for, but at least he knew he wasn't alone in the search. Flatline was worried too, and that gave him a slight hint that Reader wasn't simply hiding by choice. Something else might be going on.

"If you find her before I do " Damian said, his voice low but firm, "let me know."

Flatline looked at him, almost surprised by the request. There was an unresolved tension between them, an awkward respect, but also the realization that they both wanted the same thing.

"I will." she finally answered, before turning and disappearing into the shadows of Gotham.

Damian watched her walk away, his mind filled with questions and no clear answers. Flatline knew nothing… but that only meant that Reader was out there somewhere, and probably in trouble. And he wouldn't rest until he found her.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Since I saw Flatline in the comics i fell in love with her, it's just ✨Flatline ✨

[elysiumania]

title: carve it to the end pairing(s): blade, reader characters: blade, reader, kafka, silver wolf word count: 9.8k+ synopsis: blade is familiar with the profound sin that encompasses his entire existence, yet he never anticipated that a whirlwind of emotions for you would also ensnare him.

In the midst of your daring mission, you and Blade find yourselves separated from Kafka and Silver Wolf, who have been entrusted with the crucial task of retrieving the coveted stellaron from the clutches of the world's sovereign. This scenario is all too familiar, as Elio, your mysterious leader, often assigns you such missions to procure the stellaron from different worlds.

The urgency of the situation is palpable, as Elio's command weighs heavily on your shoulders. Time is of the essence, and the success of your mission depends on each member's unwavering focus and commitment. 

The world you find yourselves entrenched in is a labyrinth of mysteries and dangers. Its atmosphere crackles with an otherworldly energy, its landscapes a juxtaposition of ethereal beauty and imminent peril. Shadows dance along the twisted paths, hinting at lurking threats that could emerge at any moment.

In the heart of the battlefield, you and Blade move with an elegant synchrony, your every action an evidence to the rigorous training and discipline that you both possess. Your movements are precise, your coordination seamless, as if you were two halves of a single entity, united by a common purpose.

Every movement is deliberate, calculated, as you swiftly evade the oncoming strikes and launch devastating counterattacks. The air is charged with a palpable tension, your senses heightened to their fullest extent.

Time seems to slow down. Your world narrows to the immediate threat before you, the rest of the battlefield fading into the periphery. The only sound you hear is the clash of steel, the rhythmic pounding of your heart, and the rhythmic breaths you take in tandem with each movement. There is a singular purpose that drives you forward – the complete annihilation of your enemies.

In a swift turn of your body, you witness Blade parry the bullets fired to him.

Blade's presence on the battlefield is truly formidable, exuding an aura of power and confidence that commands respect. Every swing of his blade is executed with calculated precision, a dance of lethal elegance. His movements are fluid and swift, as if he were an extension of his weapon, effortlessly cutting through adversaries with a deadly efficiency.

There is a raw intensity to his fighting style, a controlled ferocity that sends shivers down your spine. He is like a force of nature, untamed and relentless, his strikes landing with devastating impact. It is a sight to behold, the embodiment of a warrior at the peak of his skill and strength.

However, amidst the chaos and violence, you can discern a meticulousness in Blade's approach. His attacks are not haphazard or reckless, but rather purposeful and strategic. He anticipates his opponents' moves, parrying and countering with calculated precision. His reflexes are honed to a razor's edge, allowing him to seamlessly transition from defense to offense, leaving little room for his enemies to counterattack.

You, too, are a force to be reckoned with. Your reflexes are honed to perfection, your aim unerring as you unleash a hail of bullets, each shot finding its mark with lethal precision. Your training and experience have molded you into a formidable combatant, a force that strikes fear into the hearts of your enemies. Your focus is steady, your concentration laser-sharp as you analyze every opponent, calculating their weaknesses and exploiting them with ruthless efficiency.

As the battle wears on, a sense of fatigue begins to creep into your limbs. The adrenaline that fueled your movements earlier starts to wane, and you feel the weight of exhaustion settle upon you. Your breath becomes labored, each inhale a struggle as you try to replenish the oxygen needed to sustain your efforts.

The once effortless movements now require a conscious effort, each swing of your weapon feeling heavier than before. Your muscles ache, protesting the relentless strain placed upon them. But you push through the discomfort, your determination overriding the physical toll on your body.

With every passing moment, your stamina diminishes further. The pace of your strikes and evasions slows, each action requiring a greater expenditure of energy. Your once precise and fluid movements become more sluggish, the gaps in your defenses more apparent. But you refuse to yield, knowing that the moment you falter could spell disaster.

Your breaths become audible, each exhalation a visible cloud in the cold air. Beads of sweat drip down your brow, stinging your eyes as you struggle to maintain focus. The weight of exhaustion settles, threatening to drag you down. Yet, you find solace in the knowledge that you are not alone in this battle.

Despite the weariness that seeps into your bones, your pride and determination refuse to waver. You cannot bear the thought of leaving the burden solely to Blade, for that would make you vulnerable at a crucial moment. You know that victory in this battle depends on your firm presence and contribution.

As the enemy forces thin, a surge of determination courses through your veins. You can taste victory within reach, a tantalizing prospect that fuels your resolve. With renewed focus, you rally your remaining energy, striking back with a newfound ferocity. Each blow is a testament to your unyielding spirit, a defiance against the constraints of your weariness.

And finally, as the last enemy falls to the ground, a moment of stillness descends upon the battlefield. The air is heavy with the scent of blood and sweat, mingled with the unmistakable aura of victory. You stand amidst the fallen, your breaths coming in heaves, your body weary and battered. But within the exhaustion, there is a sense of triumph, an indomitable spirit that refuses to be defeated.

Every breath you took came with labor, as if each inhale and exhale required a monumental effort. Weary and fatigued, you turned your body to face Blade, whose face remained unblemished, betraying no signs of exhaustion or weariness. It was as if he had not engaged in the grueling battle that had left you drained and depleted. 

Amazement and admiration swirled within you, mingling to form a chuckle that escaped your lips. You marveled at the strength embodied by your steadfast co-hunter, a strength that defied mortal limitations. The question lingered in your mind: Was this unwavering perseverance an inherent gift of his immortality?

Envy welled within you, a gnawing ache that intensified with each passing moment. It stemmed from Blade's indomitable will, his resolute determination that propelled him forward in the treacherous landscape of the battlefield. Yet, you couldn't help but be acutely aware that this very essence of strength—the enduring spirit that coursed through his veins—was also the source of his burden, one he carried with stoic grace.

Blade's eyes, intense and piercing, locked onto yours, their gaze penetrating through the facade of nonchalance he wore. A subtle furrow appeared between his brows. With each measured step, he closed the distance between you.

Your vision blurred, and the world around you transformed into a swirling haze, dissolving the boundaries between Blade and the backdrop. Amidst this kaleidoscope of colors, it was Blade's familiar hues that remained distinct, serving as a steadfast anchor amidst the chaotic whirlwind.

"(Name)," his voice called out, urgency lacing his tone, but you found yourself incapable of responding. Your focus shifted inward, drawn to the state of your own well-being. Fatigue clawed at your limbs, a relentless heaviness weighing down every movement, while a disorienting fuzziness clouded your thoughts.

Your body swayed, a mere puppet succumbing to the invisible forces tugging at your senses. Before comprehending the full extent of your unraveling consciousness, strong arms encircled your waist, pulling you into a tight embrace. The hold was both protective and firm, a lifeline anchoring you as you teetered on the precipice of unconsciousness.

With a final shuddering breath, the world around you faded into an all-encompassing darkness, your awareness slipping away like sand through your fingertips.

Blade's intense gaze remained fixed upon you, his eyes bearing witness to the toll that your relentless battles had taken on your weary form. He understood the limits that you, his trusted comrade, bore as a fellow hunter. Countless enemies had tested your stamina, their sheer numbers depleting your reserves as you confronted them head-on, side by side.

The signs of exhaustion were evident in the lousiness of your movements, your shoulders rising and falling in an irregular manner. Each breath became a heavy burden, weighing upon your chest. Your once fluid motions had begun to falter, slowing as weariness claimed its hold. Yet, even in the face of these challenges, you stood resolute, confronting the onslaught with dedication.

Finally, the last of your adversaries had been vanquished, leaving only stillness in their wake. Blade, ever vigilant, turned his attention towards you without delay. His piercing gaze met your weary countenance, observing a vulnerability that was unfamiliar to him. The customary smile that you often flashed at him, one that had grated his nerves in the past, was now replaced by a weariness he had not witnessed before—a new encounter, a glimpse of your fragility.

He approached you, his strides purposeful and deliberate, calling out your name to capture your attention. Yet, you remained lost in your own thoughts, your gaze fixated upon the ground as if oblivious to his voice. Sensing your imminent collapse, Blade's instincts kicked in, honed from years of battles fought side by side.

With remarkable swiftness, Blade extended his arm, snaking it around your waist, pulling you tightly against his chest. The impact of his swift action halted your impending fall, providing a secure anchor within the shelter of his embrace.

An irritated expression twisted Blade's features, his countenance marred by displeasure as he clicked his tongue in disapproval upon witnessing the vulnerability you now displayed. A flicker of annoyance danced within him, tugging at the corners of his being, yet an inexplicable flutter of something else lingered momentarily, a fleeting sensation that he swiftly dismissed.

He listened intently, attuned to the barely audible sound of your breathing, attesting to the rise and fall of your chest. Blade was certain that your slumber was merely a consequence of the relentless fatigue that accompanied the arduous battle you had endured. Letting out a sigh, he adjusted his stance, shifting his weight to better support you and ensure your comfort.

In the stillness, the sound of approaching footsteps broke the silence. Blade turned his gaze over his shoulder, catching sight of Kafka and Silver Wolf making their way toward him. A mischievous smirk adorned Kafka's face as her eyes fixated upon the curious and unusual scene unfolding before her.

"What happened to (Name)?" Silver Wolf inquired, her tone tinged with curiosity as she observed Blade and the slumbering figure in his arms.

"Fatigue," Blade responded curtly, his voice devoid of any elaboration.

"Oh? Did you encounter a formidable number of enemies then?" Kafka interjected with amusement. "It has been quite some time since I've seen (Name) exhausted to this extent. She usually dispatches her adversaries with impressive swiftness."

Blade chose not to respond to Kafka's remark, his gaze drifting down to your peaceful form nestled against his chest. The lines of fatigue that etched your face seemed to soften, revealing a vulnerability that was rarely witnessed. It was a sight that both intrigued and unsettled him, stirring emotions he struggled to comprehend.

"However, this scene is undoubtedly worth witnessing and quite rare.”

Blade's irritation grew as Kafka's words rang in his ears, emphasizing the rarity and significance of the scene unfolding before them. He groaned audibly, sensing the intrusion of his co-hunters into this trivial moment. 

However, his annoyance escalated to exasperation as the sound of a shutter reached his ears, followed by the realization that Silver Wolf had captured a photograph of you both in your vulnerable state.

"I will send this photo to (Name)," the hacker announced, her fingers swiftly tapping on her phone to carry out her plan.

His head snapped towards his co-hunters, a glare burning in his eyes as he observed Silver Wolf holding her phone aloft, a mischievous and amused grin etched upon Kafka's face as she stood beside her, hand confidently placed on her hips.

A deep groan escaped Blade's lips, a resounding protest against the audacity of their endeavor. The boundaries of privacy seemed to blur in their presence, and he found himself grappling with the precarious balance between camaraderie and personal space.

Unperturbed by Blade's disapproval, Silver Wolf announced her intention to send the captured photo to you, her fingers tapping on her phone to execute the plan. Kafka's amusement was evident in her voice, reveling in the presumed surprise that awaited you upon awakening to a barrage of messages.

"She will be bombarded with this photo as soon as she awakens," Kafka chuckled, relishing the anticipation she held within her mischievous gaze. Her words danced with a mixture of presumption and amusement, an implicit belief that the outcome would be nothing short of entertaining.

As Silver Wolf scrutinized the sent photo, her sharp eyes honed in on a particular detail that caught her attention. With a sense of urgency, she zoomed in on the image, focusing on your arm. A splotch of crimson stood out, a telltale sign of blood trickling down your skin. Instantly, she relayed the concerning discovery to her companions.

"I believe it's imperative that we return to headquarters and bring (Name) to the healer without delay," Silver Wolf suggested, her tone laced with genuine concern. As she faced the perplexed expressions of her companions, she clarified her reasoning. "I noticed blood on her arm in the photo. It's possible she sustained a wound during the battle."

Blade's gaze snapped towards you, his attention immediately drawn to the area where the hacker had spotted the alarming sight. His eyes scanned your slumbering form, searching for any evidence of injury. And there, peeking out from the side of your arm, he spotted the crimson stain, smearing his own sleeves with your blood. A huff of frustration escaped his lips, mingled with a tinge of exasperation.

He couldn't help but ruminate on the recklessness that often coursed through you, the audacity with which you faced danger.

Indignation surged within Blade, rising like a tempest within his chest as he contemplated the dire consequences of your actions. While he grudgingly acknowledged his own tendency for recklessness, a belief that his immortal nature would allow him to withstand wounds and slashes with ease, he recognized the stark contrast in your vulnerability. You did not possess the gift-like-curse of immortality, and the wounds you sustained held the potential for far graver repercussions.

Devising meticulous plans, carefully assessing the movements and intentions of your enemies, had always been the cornerstone of Blade's approach to victory. It was a calculated dance, a strategic ballet that he had honed over time.

Yet, what gnawed at Blade's core, sparking the ember of irritation within him, was the unsettling realization that he was irked by your recklessness. It should not concern him if you were to meet your demise on the battlefield. After all, death had been his elusive pursuit, an ever-present companion lurking in the recesses of his existence, a catchphrase that easily rolled off his tongue. It was a facet of his other self, one he had sought to embrace yet had never fully attained.

And yet, the bitter taste that lingered on the tip of his tongue, the annoyance that prickled beneath his skin, betrayed a profound unease at the thought of your death. It was an incongruity that bewildered him, challenging his steadfast commitment to detachment. How could you, someone he had never truly regarded beyond the confines of a fellow hunter, stir within him such distaste for the inevitability of death?

Blade grappled with the paradox, his irritation growing in intensity. The disconcerting reality of his emotions cast a veil of unease upon his otherwise steadfast resolve. The boundaries that he had carefully constructed, separating himself from the lives of others, seemed to blur in your presence.

It was an annoyance that Blade struggled to comprehend, an unwelcome intrusion upon his carefully cultivated existence.

"We must hurry, for there may be more adversaries in our path," Kafka suggested, her voice grained with urgency. 

In response, Blade swiftly and effortlessly scooped you up, cradling you in his arms with practiced ease—his hands supporting your knees and shoulders—before the trio embarked towards the waiting ship.

Their hurried footsteps resonated in unison. With every stride, Blade's focus remained fixed upon the precious cargo he carried, ensuring your safety as they made their way to the ship that would transport them to their destination.

Upon reaching their destination, Blade carefully set you down upon the bed in the clinic, relinquishing his hold as the healer swiftly took charge. His piercing gaze lingered upon you for a fleeting moment before he pivoted on his heel, preparing to depart the room.

“You’re leaving?” 

Kafka's sudden question halted Blade in his tracks, prompting him to turn his gaze toward her. A hint of curiosity flickered in his eyes, awaiting her explanation.

"There's no need for me to linger here," he stated matter-of-factly.

"You're not going to look after (Name)?"

The inquiry caused his eyebrow to arch in mild confusion. "And why should I do that?"

"You already know that yourself, Bladie," she stated with a playful tone and a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Blade's frown deepened, his irritation bubbling to the surface.

"I have no idea what you're talking about," he retorted, a note of finality in his voice. "And I have no interest in delving into whatever it is."

With that, Blade turned away, cutting off any further discussion. His steps carried him away from the room, leaving behind the enigmatic conversation. But, even as he walked away, the lingering words and insinuations gnawed at the edges of his thoughts, an unwelcome intrusion into his otherwise focused mind.

Blade found himself genuinely perplexed by Kafka's implications, unable to grasp the underlying meaning of her words. However, he couldn't deny the undeniable truth that it irritated him when it pertained to you. From the very beginning, since the moment you had invaded his mind, you had become a persistent presence, governing his thoughts and actions through your infuriating actions.

Within the recesses of his being, a tempestuous whirlwind raged, its origins elusive, its nature enigmatic. It swept through his soul, stirring up a maelstrom of emotions that clashed and clashed like thunderous waves against rugged cliffs. It was as if a churning vortex had taken residence within him, disrupting the tranquility he had come to know.

This enigmatic sensation, like a riddle without a solution, perplexed him, refusing to be neatly categorized or defined. It twisted and turned, defying his attempts to grasp its essence, teasing him with fleeting glimpses of comprehension before slipping away like smoke through his fingertips. It was a phantom, taunting him with its complex nature.

This inexplicable connection with you contradicted his stoic nature, defying the boundaries he had meticulously established to safeguard his emotions. The turbulence it caused within him was an unwelcome disruption, disturbing the delicate equilibrium he had carefully maintained for so long. Yet, despite his disdain for this unfamiliar sentiment, he couldn't escape its hold.

For now, Blade chose to bury those uncertainties, channeling his focus back to the tasks at hand. The path of a hunter was one fraught with danger and uncertainty, and he couldn't allow himself to be swayed by unexplained sentiments. With a steady stride, he continued his journey, suppressing the whisper of concern that followed in his wake.

“We have a new member in our team,” Kafka announced, looking at her side where a woman stood. “This is (Name). She will join as soon as Elio instructs us.”

As Kafka made the announcement, introducing you as the newest member of their team, your presence drew the attention of the group. All eyes turned towards you, including Blade's, who observed the exchange with a stoic expression.

Silver Wolf, brimming with an air of confidence, rose from her seat and approached you and Kafka. She introduced herself with a cool demeanor, extending her hand for a formal handshake. You reciprocate the gesture, a warm smile gracing your lips as you accept her greeting.

"(Name). I am pleased to meet you," you replied, your tone reflecting sincerity and openness. 

Beside her, Kafka took it upon herself to introduce Blade, her words tinged with a hint of playful warning.

"And this is Blade. He's got a few quirks, but he's a pretty decent guy. Just make sure you don't rub him the wrong way. But please beware around him," Kafka introduces him on his behalf, with a casual tone.

She conveyed his complexities, acknowledging the challenges that might arise when interacting with him. Blade simply nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze steady as he absorbed the introductions.

Taking the initiative, you extended your hand towards Blade, your gesture mirroring the earlier exchange between Silver Wolf and yourself. With a gentle smile, you spoke, voicing your hope to maintain a positive rapport.

"Blade, it's a pleasure to meet you too. I hope I can avoid getting on your bad side," you said with genuine sincerity, the sparkle in your eyes hinting at your lightheartedness.

Rather than accepting your extended hand, Blade's reaction was one of dismissiveness and disdain. He emitted a snort of irritation before abruptly turning his back to you, retreating to his designated place. It was a deliberate gesture, a clear message that he had no intention of entertaining any further interaction or connection with you.

From that moment onward, a peculiar dynamic unfolded between you and Blade. The intensity of your gaze, your unwavering attention directed towards him, became a persistent source of irritation and anger. It was as if your eyes bore into his very being, their weight an ever-present reminder of your presence.

Whether in the midst of missions or within the confines of the headquarters, your stares persisted, unabated and noticeable. It was a lack of discretion that only heightened his vexation, making it impossible for him to ignore the density of your steady focus.

Initially, Blade had chosen to overlook your behavior, granting you the benefit of the doubt and assuming that it would soon wane or change. He had granted you his patience and considered it a passing phase, a temporary inconvenience. However, as the days wore on and your behavior remained unchanged, frustration welled within him, igniting a simmering anger that threatened to boil over.

He had expected the glue-like hold you seemed to have on him to loosen, to fade away. Yet, to his dismay, it clung to him with unrelenting persistence, defying his attempts to shake it off. The irritation stirred within him, his patience waning, as the boundary of tolerance grew thinner with each passing moment.

The sudden aggression in Blade's actions shattered the fragile calm that had previously enveloped the hallway. The forceful slam against the wall resonated through the confined space, echoing with a resounding intensity. His arms flanked your head, his piercing gaze meeting your bewildered self with an unsettling mix of intensity and rage.

Caught off guard, you found yourself pinned against the unyielding surface, your movement restricted by the sheer force of Blade's hold. The abrupt halt in your path to your room left you suspended in a moment of uncertainty, as you struggled to comprehend the reason behind his unexpected and aggressive actions.

“What is your scheme, huh?”

His voice, husky yet dangerous, sliced through the air like a blade. His inquiry demanded answers, seeking to unravel the motivations behind your actions, or perhaps to assert dominance over the situation. The solemnity of his words filled the space, leaving little room for evasion or half-truths.

As Blade's intense gaze bore into your own, his indignation smoldered beneath the surface. The innocence reflected in your eyes, an aspect he vehemently abhorred, only served to further stoke the flames of his anger. It was a stark contrast to his own nature, an antithesis that rankled against his very being.

You responded, your voice steady yet laced with a hint of composure. 

"I don't know what you're talking about," you declared, your words echoing in the tense atmosphere.

Blade's growl reverberated through the air, a primal display of dominance and power. The impact of his hands against the wall echoed his warning, a reminder of what he was capable of should he be further provoked. But, despite his fearsome actions, you remained steadfast, your unwavering gaze fixed upon him, as if seeking to untangle the enigma that resided within his soul.

His voice, dripping with darkness and cruelty, lashed out at you, laying bare his frustrations. The intensity of his stare pierced through you, the weight of his words bearing down upon your shoulders. He acknowledged the patience he had shown thus far, acknowledging the restraint he had exercised in the face of your relentless scrutiny.

"You have persistently fixed your gaze upon me, which has been rather vexing. Consider yourself fortunate that, despite my reputation for impatience, I have displayed remarkable restraint and refrained from terminating your existence due to your incessant and intrusive stares."

In response to his threat, you remained resolute, your voice steady as you spoke. "Then, I am thankful that you haven't taken my life yet.”

“Tell me a plausible reason to refrain myself from ending you.”

"I want to know more about you," you admitted, your voice holding a mixture of curiosity and determination. It was a risky statement, one that defied his expectations and pushed the boundaries of his guarded existence.

His piercing gaze bore into you, intensifying with disbelief and a hint of warning. The depths of his glare seemed to echo a sense of cruelty and danger, as if he dared you to challenge his skepticism.

"Don't test me," he scowled, his voice laced with an edge of threat.

"I beg to differ," you retort. "You remain an enigma to me, a puzzle that has piqued my curiosity. It was relatively effortless for me to become acquainted with Kafka and the others, but you, on the other hand, prove to be a unique challenge. Perhaps it is your distant and aloof nature that sets you apart, or perhaps there are deeper underlying factors at play."

"You previously mentioned your desire to avoid antagonizing me, yet it appears that you have now succeeded in doing so."

Blade's words dripped with venom, his threat drifting through the charged atmosphere. The darkness that shrouded him threatened to consume the space between you, leaving little room for leniency or understanding. It was clear that he believed you had crossed a line, evoking the wrath of his ire.

With a heavy sigh, you faced him without fear.

Blade's disbelief was palpable, his features contorted in a mix of incredulity and frustration. His eyebrows furrowed deeply, and his clenched jaw revealed the inner turmoil as he fought to rein in his rising anger. With one final glare, he abruptly withdrew his body, releasing you from the oppressive presence he had imposed upon you.

"Your reasons for joining the Stellaron hunters are not my concern," he declared, his voice laced with an undeniable edge of irritation. "Keep your intrusive curiosity to yourself and refrain from bothering others. I have no interest in knowing anything about anyone, including you."

The finality in his words echoed through the space, underscoring his disinterest in delving into matters beyond the immediate scope of their shared mission. It was a clear message, signaling that further attempts to breach the walls he had erected would be met with resistance and hostility.

With that, Blade turned away, leaving you to absorb the weight of his rejection and the boundaries he had firmly established. The tension between you hung in the air, an unspoken barrier that seemed insurmountable. 

As he strode off, a cold and distant aura enveloped him, shielding him from the intrusions of curiosity and connection that you had attempted to breach.

The surreptitious glances you cast in Blade's direction did not escape notice, despite his prior warnings and threat. Nonetheless, he begrudgingly acknowledged that the frequency of those glances had diminished compared to earlier encounters. When accompanying other hunters on missions, it granted Blade a fleeting respite, a temporary reprieve from the occasional scrutinizing gazes that seemed to dissect him from afar.

Yet, upon your return, you would invariably greet him with an amiable smile and a friendly wave, seemingly oblivious to his prior admonitions. Blade, resolute in maintaining his distance, opted for complete disregard, refusing to acknowledge your presence or partake in any form of interaction.

However, when circumstances dictated that the two of you found yourselves on the same mission, the task became increasingly burdensome for Blade. Not due to any perceived deficiency on your part, but rather because of the unyielding intensity of your penetrating stares. They bore into him, as if endeavoring to unravel the enigmatic cloak that enveloped his very essence.

In response, Blade's glare would intensify, a lethal warning etched within his gaze. It stood as a silent plea for you to desist in your unyielding observation, a plea that fell upon deaf ears. Despite his explicit caution, you persisted in your pursuit, undeterred by his unspoken signals.

There arrived a moment when Blade's anger and irritation reached a boiling point, overpowering his self-restraint. In an uncontrollable surge of rage, he found himself unsheathing his sword, employing it as a tangible manifestation of his pent-up emotions. It was a perilous act, a palpable reflection of his internal struggle, as he fought to regain dominion over himself in the face of your relentless actions.

However, even in light of his aggression, you remained undeterred, unflinching in the face of the menace he presented. The clash between the two of you transformed into a battle of wills, an unyielding pursuit on your part juxtaposed with his unwavering resistance. The tension between you surged, leaving behind a trail of disquietude and exasperation in its wake.

Intrigued by Kafka's insatiable curiosity, she felt compelled to confront Blade about his abrupt outburst. Approaching him with a mixture of fascination and concern, her voice held a subtle undertone of intrigue, as she sought to crack the reason behind his aggressive actions.

"Why did you resort to such measures, Bladie?" she inquired, her tone infused with genuine curiosity.

The embers of Blade's anger still smoldered within him, evident in the acerbic manner in which he delivered his words. 

"That woman certainly knows how to stoke the fires of my fury," he growled, bitterness dripping from his voice.

Kafka's eyes narrowed, fixating on Blade intently. She meticulously assessed the situation, scouring for any visible signs of harm inflicted upon him, only to find none. There had to be a catalyst, a trigger that had prompted such an instinctive and volatile response from him.

Based on her astute observations, Kafka deduced that your actions had not warranted such an aggressive reaction. Puzzlement tinged her words as she probed deeper, yearning for clarity.

"From what I witnessed, (Name) did nothing to incite your anger. Or am I missing something?"

Blade's head snapped towards Kafka, his forehead furrowing with a blend of frustration and defensiveness. 

"She persisted with those vexing stares, despite my explicit warning," he retorted.

A playful spark flickered within Kafka's eyes as she observed Blade, a subtle amusement tugging at the corners of her lips. 

"Ah, I comprehend now," she replied, a trace of understanding seeping into her voice. "So, that is the crux of the matter."

Blade huffed, his frustration unabated. "If she refuses to desist, I shall not hesitate to end her myself," he declared, his words carrying an icy finality.

Kafka's amusement only intensified, her expression transforming into one of playful intrigue. She appeared to find the entire situation rather entertaining, studying Blade with a blend of fascination and amusement. It was evident that she had gleaned something deeper from the intricate dynamics between you and Blade, something that transcended mere annoyance.

With the threat hanging palpably in the air, the tension between you and Blade reached an unprecedented apex, the consequences of your unyielding stares teetering on treacherous ground. The ball now rested in your court, presenting you with a pivotal choice – either relent and abandon this perilous path or persist with an unwavering determination, willing to face the consequences that lay in wait.

The passage of time transformed weeks into months, and yet, there remained no trace of your return from the mission undertaken alongside Kafka. Blade found himself ensnared in an unfamiliar state of tranquility, relishing in the absence of your persistent stares. Initially expecting your reappearance after a mere week, he had braced himself for the resumption of your penetrating gaze. However, the passing months painted a contrasting picture, shrouding your whereabouts in mystery.

Inquiries gnawed at the fringes of Blade's consciousness. Could the mission truly detain you for such an extensive duration? It seemed implausible that you and Kafka, both formidable in your own right, would succumb to failure or meet your demise at the hands of adversaries. Blade intimately understood the strength and cunning of his comrades. Furthermore, the absence of any official proclamations from Elio only heightened his conviction that your mission endured.

Despite his profound antipathy towards you, Blade could not dismiss your capabilities. He was not petty enough to overlook or disregard the skills of another, even if he harbored personal disdain. Reluctantly, he acknowledged your competence, recognizing that you were not to be underestimated.

Yet, amidst the tranquil days, thoughts of you infiltrated Blade's mind akin to an unyielding anchor rooted deep within the ocean floor. Rare was the occasion when he allowed himself to be consumed by thoughts of another, especially one who irked him to the core. The frustration and anger that simmered within him escalated with each passing day, a constant reminder of the enigma you had become in his existence.

Blade grappled with reconciling these conflicting emotions, struggling to comprehend why you had managed to etch yourself so indelibly in his thoughts. He battled against his own resistance, resenting the intrusion of your presence monopolizing his mind. It was a vexing state of affairs, leaving him wrestling with an amalgamation of sentiments he had long sought to suppress.

As the months gradually wore on, Blade found himself increasingly exasperated by the lingering presence of your memory within his thoughts. The weight of your existence persisted like an anchor, impeding the tranquility of his mind. It posed an enigma that defied resolution, a puzzle that exasperated him to no end.

Blade's ruminations incessantly revolved around the void created by your absence, compelling him to ponder over the intricacies of your mission and the current state of affairs. Despite having access to the contact information of all the Stellaron hunters, he deliberately abstained from possessing any trace of your details. The contempt he nurtured towards your presence rendered any form of direct communication superfluous in his discerning eyes.

His inclinations inclined towards solitude and seclusion, seldom initiating contact with his fellow hunters unless exigencies dictated such action. He refrained from extending his reach to others or responding to their messages unless they pertain directly to the ongoing missions at hand. Blade discerned no necessity for casual conversations or trivial exchanges that deviated from the intended purpose.

"I am aware that your perpetual annoyance and anger are constants, but on this occasion, they seem to possess a heightened potency compared to prior instances, even in the absence of any discernible source of provocation," Silver Wolf remarked, her voice resounding within their customary resting room. Engrossed in her gaming pursuits, she paused momentarily after completing a round.

Blade cast a sidelong glance at her, his irritation apparent. However, he chose to remain silent, maintaining his comfortable position on the couch as his gaze reverted to fixating upon the aquarium wall situated before him.

"Even in your current relaxed state, I can sense the presence of your simmering irritation permeating the room, you're aware of that, aren't you?"

Silver Wolf let out a sigh of resignation, her shoulders slumping in response to Blade's unresponsive demeanor. But just as the air left her lungs, a familiar sound filled the air, slicing through the silence—her phone's ringing tone. It was Kafka on the line, and without hesitation, she swiftly accepted the call.

"Hey."

"Hello, Silver Wolf! I'm out shopping today since it's our well-deserved rest day for both (Name) and I."

Silver Wolf caught a movement from the corner of her eye, prompting her to turn her head and meet Blade's gaze. He had straightened his posture on the couch from his relaxed position, his attention now fixated on her. A shift in his demeanor was apparent; he seemed alert and engaged as he observed Kafka's video call.

"When will you be back?" the hacker inquired.

"I'm still waiting for Elio's instructions. He mentioned that we should remain here for a while longer, as there's an upcoming mission on the horizon."

"And where's (Name)?"

A soft rustling sound reached Silver Wolf's ears once more, drawing her attention. Her gaze shifted to Blade, noting the subtle change in his posture. He now leaned forward, his upper body hunched over with elbows resting on his knees, his hands intertwined together. His focused stance mirrored his intent, as if he hung onto every word exchanged during the conversation.

"(Name) is currently recuperating in a small hospital. She sustained an injury during our mission, though thankfully, it isn't too severe.”

"Tell her to rest well.”

"Of course.”

With the call concluded, she pocketed her phone and shifted her gaze towards Blade, her eyes searching for any trace of empathy or understanding. Yet, his response was a mere scoff, accompanied by a dismissive comment.

"Weak," he uttered, his tone laced with disdain and Silver Wolf only released a defeated sigh.

With the homecoming of weary hunters, an air of relief and delight enveloped the headquarters. Genuine smiles adorned the faces of Silver Wolf and their comrades, manifesting their sincere joy as they warmly welcomed your return from the arduous mission. The unity and camaraderie among the team were palpable, tangible evidence of the bonds forged through shared trials and tribulations.

Blade trailed behind Silver Wolf, observing the scene with a detached interest. His gaze fleetingly brushed over the joyful countenances and animated conversations, until it settled upon you—the very source of his vexation. There you stood, radiant with an effusive grin, your hand extended in a friendly wave.

In that moment, an unfamiliar warmth stirred within Blade, threatening to breach the fortress he had meticulously erected around his emotions. It was a sensation alien and disconcerting, a stark departure from his accustomed state of detached coldness. Its presence vexed him to no end, this inexplicable emergence of nascent sentiments that simmered just beneath the surface.

He endeavored to quell the burgeoning warmth, dismissing it as a transient aberration in his otherwise composed and chaotic existence. Yet, with each subsequent encounter, every instance where your firm gaze locked onto him, the intensity of this sensation surged, chipping away at his steely resolve. Frustration surged within him, further aggravating the already tempestuous storm of his emotions.

Blade fought against the onslaught of these unfamiliar sentiments, unwilling to succumb to their influence. He clung to the familiarity of his annoyance, his irritation serving as a shield against the disconcerting stirrings within his heart. But deep down, he knew that ignoring these feelings would only fuel their fire, intensifying the turmoil he sought so desperately to quell.

As the days unfolded and your presence remained a constant in his life, Blade found himself increasingly entangled in a web of conflicting emotions. The war between his irritation and the burgeoning warmth waged on, leaving him with a sense of frustration and a growing awareness of the enigma you had become to him.

In the midst of the chaotic battlefield, where danger lurked at every turn, a pivotal moment unfolded that would test the depths of your connection. As the clash of weapons echoed around you, a swift and unexpected strike found its mark, piercing Blade's chest with a searing pain.

In that instant, your instinctual response kicked in, overriding any fear or hesitation that threatened to consume you. With unwavering determination, you raced towards Blade, your steps propelled by a surge of panic and concern. The gravity of the situation urged you to act swiftly, to protect him from further harm.

Despite the formidable adversaries that interposed themselves along your path, your singular focus remained unwaveringly fixed upon your wounded comrade. Each opponent that dared to obstruct your passage fell swiftly and decisively to your calculated strikes. Guided by a relentless sense of urgency, you traversed the battlefield with unwavering resolve, your purpose anchored in reaching Blade's side and attending to his injuries.

Finally arriving at his side, your hands descended upon his wounded chest with an unyielding grip. Worry danced upon your countenance, etching a crease upon your brow and compelling your teeth to gnaw on your lip. Clutching a tightly held handkerchief, you applied firm pressure to his wound, striving to staunch the torrent of blood that threatened to steal his vitality.

Blade, despite his internal resistance to your ministrations, could not help but perceive the genuine concern etched across your visage. The furrowed brows, the resolve that emanated from your eyes, and the sheer intensity of your actions conveyed volumes, surpassing the need for any spoken words in that critical juncture.

"Blade, we must attend to this injury quickly!"

Your voice quivered with genuine concern and panic, causing Blade to momentarily recoil, caught off guard by the sincerity emanating from your words. The urgency in your voice and the unmistakable tremor in your tone pierced through his defenses, reaching a dormant place within him that had long remained untouched.

Perplexity enveloped him as he struggled to comprehend the depth of your distress over a mere wound, particularly considering his own immortal nature. Yet, as his gaze remained fixed upon your countenance, a subtle yet undeniable transformation transpired within him. A tingling sensation rippled from the pit of his stomach, coursing through his chest—a foreign and unfamiliar sensation that evoked curiosity rather than repulsion.

Blade caught a glimpse of something he had long denied himself—the touch of genuine concern and the presence of someone who genuinely cared. It served as a stark contrast to the scorn and condemnation he had grown accustomed to receiving from others. For the first time in centuries, there was someone in close proximity, tending to his well-being without reservation.

A tumultuous dichotomy of irritation and acceptance rose within him, engendering a tangled tapestry of conflicting emotions. The familiar irritation that had once consumed him began to dissipate, gradually replaced by a growing appreciation for your presence and the concern you exhibited.

Though the intricacies of his shifting emotions eluded full comprehension, Blade acknowledged the faint stirrings of comfort that arose in your proximity. 

"What happened?" Kafka's voice interjected, causing you to whip your head in her direction. The perplexed look on her face mirrored your own surprise, as she observed the perturbation etched on your features.

"Blade... he got stabbed! We need to hurry and bring him to the healer!" Panic laced your words, urgency driving you to take swift action.

Kafka's eyes followed your hand, which was placed on Blade's chest, the rise and fall of his breath now a matter of concern. Slowly, her gaze ascended to his face, a mixture of irritation and nonchalance evident in his features. Then, her attention refocused on your frantic self.

A few moments passed, during which Kafka's gaze seemed to penetrate the situation, processing the scene before her. Suddenly, a burst of laughter erupted from her chest, echoing through the tense atmosphere.

"Why are you laughing? This is not a laughing matter, Kafka!" you exclaimed, your frustration palpable as you glared at the wine-haired beauty.

Blade let out a low groan, vigorously slapping your hand away from his chest. His unexpected display of aggression surprised you, especially considering the wound he had sustained. It was as if the act of being stabbed was nothing more than an ordinary occurrence for him, leaving you even more baffled. Was that the reason behind Kafka's laughter?

Your confusion deepened, and you couldn't make sense of the situation.

"Oh, (Name). I thought you knew," Kafka chuckled, her laughter now laced with a sense of amusement at your bewilderment.

"About what?" 

With a brief glance at Blade, who was sheathing his sword with his back turned to them, Kafka's words carried a hint of knowing.

"Bladie is no stranger to mere wounds or injuries. That particular wound is insignificant to him. He is impervious to any harm inflicted upon his physical form. In fact, he transcends the limitations of us human beings; he is immortal, my dear (Name)."

WIth Kafka’s revelation your treatment of him immensely changed. As well as Blade found himself caught in a flurry of contradictions, torn between the desire for your absence and the inexplicable irritation when you complied with his wishes. Your change in treatment, while seemingly what he had wanted, now left him more unsettled and furious than ever before.

He couldn't understand why he was feeling this way, and it frustrated him to no end. The inexplicable emotions that welled up within him whenever you were around were foreign and unwelcome. It was as if the walls he had erected around his heart were slowly crumbling, revealing a vulnerability he had long suppressed.

The sight of you flashing smiles at others, tending to their wounds with genuine concern, ignited an unfamiliar sensation within him. He detested the repulsive sensation that surged through him, the possessive instinct that flared up whenever he saw you caring for someone else. He loathed the fact that you had this effect on him, making him question his own emotions and reactions.

Blade couldn't fathom why he cared, why he was bothered by your interactions with others. He was the immortal, the one who had long shut himself off from emotional attachments. And yet, here you were, weaving your way into his thoughts and emotions, stirring up a turmoil he couldn't escape.

With each passing day, the irritation only intensified, creating a storm of clashing emotions within him. He was more furious with himself for feeling this way, for allowing you to affect him in ways he had never experienced before.

Kafka, with her keen and perceptive eyes, couldn't help but remark upon Blade's discernibly heightened irritation—an observation that had not eluded her astute perception. Driven by her insatiable curiosity, she promptly broached the subject, seeking to unravel the enigma of his unusual demeanor. Yet, true to his character, Blade responded with his customary dismissiveness, casually brushing aside her concerns without proffering any elucidation. With an air of nonchalance, he redirected his attention to the task at hand, leaving the mystery of his behavior to linger in the air, unresolved.

Time seemed to elude Blade as he stood in his room. Lost in a labyrinth of thoughts concerning you, he found himself unaware of the passing hours, each moment consumed by you. A soft groan of frustration escaped his lips, acknowledging his own inability to pull away from his thoughts of you.

Feeling the weight of his restless mind, Blade resolved to take a moment for himself, to release some pent-up tension and clear his head. With purposeful steps, he made his way towards the nearby shower, where he could let off some steam. As the water continued to cascade over his form, Blade attempted to center his attention on the sensation of droplets caressing his skin, hoping it might serve as a distraction from the turmoil that roiled within his mind. Allowing the warmth to envelop him, he sought to ease the tension in his muscles, striving to liberate himself from the grip of his incessant thoughts. 

Shaking his head, he endeavored to clear his mind of these unwelcome musings. 

"What is wrong with me?" he muttered to himself, perturbed by the uncharacteristic surge of emotions that enveloped him. He had prided himself on being an unyielding and emotionless immortal, impervious to the influences of the world around him. Yet, there he stood, beleaguered by persistent thoughts concerning a mere mortal such as yourself.

With a resigned sigh, he turned off the shower and stepped out, enveloping his form with a towel. Gazing at his reflection in the fogged-up mirror, his crimson eyes reflected a blend of irritation and confusion. The unanticipated unraveling of his self-control by your presence bewildered him, leaving him grappling with emotions he could not completely understand.

Clasping his fists, he felt a surge of anger stirring within him. He could not afford to be ensnared by distractions, especially with perilous missions on the horizon. He must reclaim his focus and staunchly set aside these unwelcome and perplexing emotions.

Blade was clad in nothing but a short pajama, a towel casually draped over his shoulders to catch the lingering droplets of water. As he moved towards his bed, the resounding knock on his door demanded his attention. Curious and somewhat irritated by the intrusion, he opened the door, only to be taken aback by the sight before him—you standing there, an unexpected presence in this hour.

His surprise was evident in the slight widening of his eyes and the subtle raising of his brows. He couldn't fathom how you managed to leave the infirmary, where you were supposed to be resting. He silently calculated the time since their arrival, and the realization struck him like a bolt of lightning—five hours had passed.

"Hello," you greeted timidly. "I hope I'm not intruding."

"What brings you here?" he asked, irritated.

"I just wanted to express my gratitude for carrying me back to headquarters... and, well, apologize for any inconvenience."

"There was no other option. Kafka and Silver Wolf couldn't have taken you to the infirmary, could they? So, there's no need for thanks or apologies."

His blunt words briefly caught you off guard, causing you to blink before mustering a small smile.

"Oh." You blinked, mustering a small smile. "You're right. In that case, I'll take my leave now."

With a respectful bow, you turned on your heels, preparing to depart from his presence.

Blade's unwavering gaze remained fixated on you as you turned to depart, yet his eyes were subtly drawn to the exposed nape of your neck, igniting an inexplicable and unfamiliar sensation within him. The sight stirred something indescribable, a strange blend of emotions that only added to his growing frustration.

A maelstrom of confusion engulfed his thoughts as he questioned what was happening to him. Was he losing control, his once-steadfast sanity slipping through his grasp like elusive sand? The enigmatic emotions that besieged him intensified, leaving him grappling with a turbulent turmoil that defied understanding.

Just as the sound of heels clicking heralded your departure, Blade's trance was abruptly shattered. A primal force took hold of him, compelling him to act instinctively. In a moment beyond conscious contemplation, he seized your wrist, pulling you into his room with an abrupt force that elicited a surprised yelp from you. The door slammed shut behind you, sealing the two of you within its confines.

With an aggressive demeanor, Blade pinned you against the wall, his imposing figure rendering you feeling confined and vulnerable. His arms effectively caged you on either side of your head, while his intense gaze bore into you menacingly.

“W-What?”

Evident confusion colored your countenance as you cautiously questioned Blade, uncertain if your presence had once again provoked his irritation. His crimson eyes bore into you menacingly, wordlessly refusing to offer any response, leaving you to draw in a sharp breath, attempting to steady yourself. The charged atmosphere weighed heavily, prompting contemplation on whether a hasty escape was prudent. Yet, deep down, you recognized the futility of such an endeavor, as Blade's unmatched speed and strength would swiftly thwart any such attempt.

Summoning your courage, you made another attempt to prompt him, your words quivering slightly as they escaped your lips.

"Is there something you wish to say to me?" Despite the trepidation that tugged at your composure, you endeavored to maintain a composed facade, resolute in concealing your vulnerability.

Blade's response came with a visible grimace, his frustration unmistakable in his words, "You have persistently become annoying."

As he dipped his head, intensifying his scrutiny upon you, you valiantly struggled to keep your expression relaxed, even as your trembling hands betrayed the true depth of your emotions. The fearless front you displayed appeared only to further kindle his anger, intensifying the storm of emotions that swirled within him.

You are maddening.

"What did I even do?" Your voice took on a challenging tone, akin to that of a young cub ready to fight and growl. Intensely, you locked eyes with Blade, seeking an explanation for his behavior and his cryptic words.

"I should be the one saying that," he responded, his baritone voice carrying an edge of frustration. His answer only deepened your bewilderment, leaving you more perplexed than before.

"Huh? I don't understand—" you began to speak, but Blade's growl cut you off, silencing your words. 

“What did you even do to me? Do you have another ability that can control emotions without our knowledge?”

His sudden accusation threw you off balance, as he insinuated that you possessed an ability to control emotions unbeknownst to anyone.

Your eyebrow arched in surprise and disbelief at the preposterous notion. You couldn't fathom what had gotten into Blade to make such an accusation, but you knew you needed to explain yourself, to set the record straight.

"Blade, I must admit I'm quite baffled by your accusation, as I genuinely don't know what you're referring to. I assure you, I haven't been doing anything to intentionally irritate you," you calmly explained with unfaltering eyes. "In fact, I've been following the caution you advised me about. So, I'm at a loss as to why you're upset with me once again."

Blade was right. Your compliance with his previous warning seemed to be the catalyst for your altered treatment of him. But what baffled him even more was why this change had only manifested recently, not from the very day he initially cautioned you.

Moreover, why is he justifying himself and becoming frustrated yet again? The question rings within him, echoing like an elusive whisper in the depths of his mind. He yearned to understand the source of his inner turmoil, to unravel the feelings that are sprouting in him.

The air was charged with an unmistakable sense of unease, and you could feel the weight of his emotions, veiled behind his crimson eyes. The conflict within him seemed to mirror the battle within your own heart, yearning to bridge the gap between you and find a common ground.

As you continued to gaze at him, a sliver of vulnerability flashed across Blade's hardened facade. It was fleeting, like a flickering flame, but enough to hint at the complex emotions that churned beneath his stoic exterior. His frustration seemed to be rooted in something deeper, something he struggled to put into words.

"You're well aware that I could wrap my hands around your neck and squeeze out that life of yours, aren't you?" he murmured, his lips hovering just above your ear, causing a shiver to course down your spine.

“Y-You’re crazy…”

He retracted his head slightly, fixing you with a sharp and penetrating gaze. The subtle quivering of your lips did not escape his notice, and a silent challenge passed between you both. His eyes traced a path from your intense gaze, skimming over your nose before finally lingering on your lips—a peculiar fixation, as if he had stumbled upon something mesmerizing and peculiar. An unusual urge seemed to flicker in his mind, an impulse to sink his teeth into your soft flesh until it bled.

Blade's tongue darted out, leaving a glistening trail across his lips as he raised his gaze to meet yours once more. The crimson hue of his eyes gleamed with a dangerous allure, veiled by a haze of emotions not easily discernible. Your jaw involuntarily dropped, unable to contain the wild pounding of your heart. The tension crackled with intensity, enveloping you both in its all-encompassing grip.

Every fiber of your being urged you to step back, to flee from the enigmatic danger that lurked in his captivating gaze. Yet, an inexplicable magnetism held you firmly in place, as if some invisible force bound you together.

The air hung heavy with anticipation, each passing second stretching into what felt like an eternal moment. Words seemed superfluous, for the unspoken language between your intertwined gazes conveyed more than mere sentences ever could. The space between you two became charged with a palpable energy, akin to the approach of an electrifying storm—impossible to ignore, as it enveloped you both in its relentless and tantalizing embrace.

"B-Blade—"

In an unforeseen twist of events, Blade's lips collided onto yours with a fervor that left you wide-eyed and breathless. The abruptness of the action rendered you momentarily frozen, unable to process the torrent of emotions and sensations that surged through your body.

Far from tender, the kiss bore a fierce and almost desperate intensity, as though it carried the weight of his very existence. It seemed as if he sought to carve himself upon you, as if this act of intimacy represented the last defiant stroke in a battle he waged within himself.

A sharp whimper involuntarily escaped your lips as he bit down with force, the metallic tang of your blood mingling with the taste of his kiss. The stinging sensation jolted you, yet you found yourself unable to push him away, as his strength overwhelmed any feeble attempts to resist. Instead, instinctively, you clung to him, your fingers digging into his shoulders, seeking to anchor yourself amidst the swirling chaos.

When he eventually withdrew, your breaths intertwined within the tensed air enveloping you both. His crimson eyes bore into yours, a tumultuous mix of emotions reflecting in their depths. Words eluded you as your mind grappled with the tangled array of feelings that engulfed you.

All was a blur, your heart pounding in your chest, mirroring the adrenaline-fueled rush of your thoughts. You felt like an unwitting participant in a dance of fate, entangled within a complex web of emotions that seemed to defy all rationality.

Blade's actions left you dazed and vulnerable, your thoughts in disarray. However, beneath the veil of aggression, you couldn't help but sense a raw vulnerability in him, a vulnerability that mirrored the turmoil of your own feelings.

His intense gaze bore into you, searing into your very soul, as he uttered those few words that carried a world of meaning. 

"You make me go crazy."

[carionto]

A Proper Welcoming Party - P3

Part 1 and 2

Two more discharges from the Main Defense Railgun to make a final point, then, once the Vice Admiral Krastina's ship, Darting Juniper, jumped in a couple of minutes after the last of the pirate ships had engaged their hyperdrives for an emergency jump, Bertha's Bosom docked back to the Heart of Liquid Stone to resume loading cargo. The Vice Admiral hailed the mining station:

"We heard your distress call and arrived as quickly as able. Seems like the show's over though?"

"Yeah, after the call we did a more thorough scan of their ships and realized they were no more than tin cans. The freight transport ship, Bertha over here, took a few shots, to a bit of a shock honest - completely atomized them, you can still see the trail even. Then they all fled in random directions."

"Understood. I'll sound a general alarm for the entire system. It'll at least be good to have everyone put what we drill all the time into action, even if the threat is less than the fake "Not-a-drill" drills us military crews go through."

"Still, Darting Juniper, we know there are some dumb enough out there to try. Next ones might be flying aluminium cans!"

Joked the station manager, Garrison Bronhjaven. The Vice Admiral, while chuckling internally, gave an expected serious military response, then after a few hours of no new reports, resumed her regular patrol and monitoring duties.

This incident will be recalled unflatteringly as "That time Bertha smacked a pirate fleet with her Bosom out of Sol."

...

Big Thrasher was alone.

He punched in the coordinates himself, but forgot his physique was above standard console size and fat-thumbed a really random patch of completely empty space.

Navigation computers get scrambled after an emergency jump as they require precise input and reference data for both the start and end locations to maintain knowledge of where in space a ship is. Doing so takes time as the computers need to access and cross-reference their current location with that in the database, and then calculate for time, distance, and spatial distortion to know where each of the relevant landmark objects will be upon arrival.

With an emergency jump, you just punch in a direction and go for however long the current energy reserves in the drive will last. There is a minor delay to let the computer adjust enough to not head straight for any known celestial object, but other than that, seconds compared to the minutes you don't have in an emergency.

Another double-edged sword to this - emergency mode raises the power use limits of a hyperdrive to be above energy generation, allowing you to travel much faster at the cost of not being able to stop until the drive is completely empty. Then to get the drive working again takes anywhere between a few hours and several days as you need to charge it to full before you can turn it back on. And then even more time to integrate all the navigational data back into the hyperdrive so that it can actually go anywhere.

In short, Big Thrasher will have quite a lot of time to think about the choices he made in his life to get to where he is right now.

Epilogue

_____________________________

I'm kinda averse to killing off characters in my writings, so I think I've accidentally created a recurring comedy villain here. Also, technology details, was not what I intended to write about, it just sort of happened, the words come out and I just go with it and use them however seems fitting. Don't mistake all these details and additions and explanations for a plan - I don't know what is going to happen or what I'm building towards, if anything. But when/if I do figure it out, I will make all of this connect and make enough sense. Hopefully.

[sunnylovescats]

Title: Oops! My Sword Slipped

Archive Warning: Major Character Death

Fandoms: Dream SMP

Relationships: Wilbur Soot & TommyInnit, Technoblade & TommyInnit (Video Blogging RPF), Wilbur Soot & Technoblade

Characters: TommyInnit (Video Blogging RPF), Wilbur Soot, Technoblade (Video Blogging RPF)

Additional Tags: Angst, Hurt No Comfort, Blood and Injury, Self Sacrifice

The sound of metal clashing against each other echoed throughout the clearing, sparks flying as the blades parried each other. Tommy flinched at each hit, eyes wide in both terror and amazement at the deadly dance his brothers were now engaged in. And while his heart hammered in his chest in fear, he couldn't help but admire the skill and grace that accompanied the fight.

Techno moved with precision, each blow calculated and body positioned in way that guaranteed he would be staying on the defensive. His actions weren't ones of a brother sparring, but that of a hunter going in for his prey. And he wouldn't stop until he captured it and its blood fed his sword.

Wilbur, on the other hand, was much sloppier with his stance, but what he lacked in coordination he made up with brute force, his hits managing to make Techno stumble before quickly regaining his footing again. He was in no way on the same level as his brother, but he was a soldier first and foremost.

And a soldier defended his honor, even if it ended in his death. And if Tommy was certain of anything, it was that by the end of the day there would only be one of his brothers left standing.

He had TOLD Wilbur not to start an argument he couldn't win, but of course he didn't listen. He never listened to Tommy. No one did for that matter. And Techno wasn't any help, only adding fuel to the fire that was spreading way too quickly. He just had to dig into Wilbur's insecurities, mock him over Phil's clear favoritism between the two.

How sad was it that Phil cared more for his partner than his own son. The way the piglin glanced at Tommy as he said it was enough evidence that that he felt the same way about Tommy.

Maybe a few years before Tommy would have jumped to his and Wilbur's defense, argued that Phil loved them just as much. But he was older now and knew while Phil cared for his son in his own way, he had no love left to spare for his youngest.

Gone was the burning resentment that sparked in his chest every time their father ruffled Wilbur's hair or asked how his day and has long since been replaced with indifference. He had accepted that he had never really part of their make-shift family. He would always just be teetering on the edge of the rest of them, there but still forever isolated.

But it wasn't as if he was new to this feeling, it seemed like he never really mattered that much to anyone after he fulfilled his duties.

Phil's little mistake. Techno's Theseus. Wilbur's loyal lapdog.

Now, there was nothing but an argument that could only be resolved in bloodshed.

“Come on, Techno, you can do better than this! Show me what the Blood God can do! Or all the rumors just fabrication, lies you came up with," Wilbur taunted, grin growing wider as the piglin's eyes flashed red, his blows becoming heavy with less hesitation in between. Wilbur continued to parry the blows, but he was slowly being pushed back.

Tommy expected to see fear in Wilbur's expression, but all he saw was giddiness. His stomach dropped at the realization. Wilbur was enjoying this. Enjoying the feeling of making Techno crack, even if it costed him his life. Petty revenge. It made Tommy sick.

The tip of Techno's sword ripped through the fabric of Wilbur's coat, cutting deep into his arm. Tommy gasped and instinctively stumbled forward to help his older brother, but a warning growl from Techno stopped him in his tracks.

"Stand back, Tommy. This doesn't concern you," he warned, gaze once again settling on Wilbur. "The grownups are talking."

"Grownups?! You two are acting like fucking toddlers!" Tommy spat, before he could stop himself. The urge to apologize was as strong as ever, but he pushed it down. After everything, they still treated him like a dumb little kid.

No matter what he did, he would never be their equal. He should know that by now, but it still hurt. He would never be wanted in the way that actually mattered.

Tommy had half the mind to leave right then and there, leave the two to wallow in their self-pity and have Phil come home to find one son having slain the other. Watch his whole family's life fall into pieces just as his brothers would do to him.

But unfortunately, he wasn't his brothers. No matter how hard he tried or how much he wanted to, he would never be them. So, he curled his shaking hands into fist and raised his chin in defiance, hoping he looked more confident than he felt.

"You two-you need to stop whatever the hell this is! Let it go, it's just so-so stupid! We're supposed to be happy now. We're supposed to be a... family," he trailed off after that, blinking back tears that burned at the edges of his eyes.

Wilbur lowered his sword slightly, and Techno regarded him for a moment, seeming to mull something over, also lowering his sword. Tommy let out the breath he didn't know he had been holding, the tension seeping from shoulders. Maybe they would FINALLY listen to him. They could go home, talk it over, apologize, and-

"Pretty words, Theseus, but unfortunately I was never fond of this little found family dynamic you made up." With one quick motion, Techno hit Wilbur's wrist with the hilt of his sword, making him drop it in surprise and stumble backwards to the ground.

He looked with eyes wide in realization as Techno raised his sword above his head. The hunter had cornered his prey and was ready to deliver the killing blow. "Now I won't have to keep up the pretense anymore."

Time seemed to come to a stop as the sword began to fall, and before he could even think, Tommy felt himself push forward. At that moment nothing mattered more than getting to Wilbur.

Because no matter what, that was his big brother, and despite what Techno said, he knew he cared for Wilbur as well. Once the bloodlust had faded, it would be unbearable for him.

Techno didn't deserve to have his brother's blood on his hands, no matter how sour and broken their feelings towards each other were.

But Tommy, Tommy was expendable. It wouldn't matter if it was him; Techno had already tried to kill him before, he would be doing them a favor. And maybe they would be upset for a while, but they would get over it quickly.

They could be happy. With Tommy gone it would finally be perfect. Because they all knew he was the loose thread, the one that didn't belong, that did nothing but cause problems and grief for his family. Well, they weren't his family anymore, maybe they never were, but the sentiment was the same.

He blinked slowly, looking down in sick fascination at the sword now impaled through his stomach, red starting to seep through his white shirt. His eyes met Wilbur's, who stared back with a horrified expression.

That really confused Tommy. Wilbur wasn't supposed to look so scared. Not for him, never for him. A noise, something between a whine and a sob sounded behind him, and he was vaguely aware of the sound of metal hitting the ground as he slumped forward into Wilbur's arms.

He whined in pain, his whole body alight in agony, and grabbed at Wilbur's coat to find some semblance of comfort.

Wilbur gently pried his hands away, and shrugged off his coat, pressing it to the wound. Tommy whined, immediately trying to squirm away from the pain, but Wilbur only shushed him, holding it in place. "It's okay, you’ll be okay. oh Tommy. What were you thinking?!"

Tommy just shook his head, the metallic taste of blood filling his mouth. He was confused, Wilbur wasn't supposed to sound so sad, he was supposed to be thanking Tommy for finally doing the right thing. Maybe he just didn't understand yet.

"It was-Techno would be sad if he hurt you. It doesn't matter if it's me, you'll-you two can still be happy together." Tears slipped down his cheeks, but he wasn't quite sure why he was crying. He did the right thing, so why did it feel so wrong. "I'm sorry."

A calloused palm cradled his face and his eyes fluttered open to once again look at Wilbur, his face ridden with guilt.

“God-we could never want you dead, Tommy. You're the only thing holding this fucked up family together. Fuck Tommy, I'm so sorry. I'm so, so sorry we made you feel like that. We need you, okay. We'll-We'll go home, and I can sing for you, and then we'll play card games and Techno can read to you like he used to do " Wilbur pressed his lips against Tommy's forehead, tears wetting his curls.

"My sunshine, my darling baby brother. You'll be okay, I promise. You'll be okay, you have to be okay!" There was an edge of hysteria to Wilbur's voice now, almost as if he believed it enough, it would be true.

They both knew that wasn't going to happen. The only thing Wilbur would be carrying home was a body.

Someone knelt beside him, a clawed hand brushing through his hair gently. "Tommy, little brother. Don't EVER forgive me for this." Tommy almost smiled at that. It was nice in a way, that they were pretending to care.

He knew the tears were fake and the words meaningless, but he could almost believe they were real. He nuzzled into Wilbur's hand, the pain finally fading away. He remembered hearing that wasn't good, but he also knew he fine with it. Everything would be okay. They would move on.

Because in the end, that's all he really wanted wasn't it? For his loved ones to be happy. And the only way that could happen was if he was gone for good.

"I'm sorry I was so unlovable."

Techno's hand stilled, and a wounded noise came from him. For some reason that sent Wilbur into a panic, pupils blown and breath coming in sharp gasps as he held Tommy even tighter to him, basically clawing at him to try to get him as close as possible.

"No, no, no, we love you, sunshine. We both love you so, so much. I'm sorry. I love you, I love you, I love you," Wilbur mumbled into his hair, rocking him back and forth like he used to do when he woke up from a nightmare as a child. "My precious one. I'm here now. Your big brother is here, and he's not leaving ever again. And he loves you so, so much."

Something broke inside Tommy at that, at how fucked up it was that he had to be dying for his brothers to say three basic words of affection. To finally act like they cared. That he had to die for them to notice how much he was hurting. But it didn't matter now, did it?

He was tired of it, tired of trying, tired of caring tired of loving. He just wanted to go to sleep, wake up and find this was all just a bad dream. That he'll be five again when everything was still perfect. He wanted his happy ending.

A soft chuff, fingers gently closing his eyes. "Sleep, Theseus. We'll be here when you wake up."

Tommy hummed, snuggling deeper into Wilbur's chest. Sleep that sounded nice. He deserved it, didn't he? At least he was able to stop his brothers, give them both their own happy endings.

Maybe, maybe if he had heard the agonized scream or the soft pleas he would have thought differently.

He’ll never know, now will he?

[versatileginger]

HIDDEN | CHAPTER 4

Billy Russo x OC (Ava) 

Warnings: Not canon, violence, weapons, stalking (not MMC), murder, everything you'd find in The Punisher universe, no betrayal. 

Summary: Billy meets someone that piques his interest. Did he mention she carries a knife?

A/N: Leading up to halloween everyone. I'm excited. Still open for recommendations by the way! Here's chapter 4 for ya.

Ava had been eagerly anticipating Billy's visit all day. She spent the afternoon meticulously preparing her home for his arrival, as that's just the way she liked to do things. The soft glow of her dimmed, warm-toned lights filled the room, casting a cozy and inviting ambiance.

As the clock's hands ticked closer to eight o'clock, Ava put the finishing touches on her appearance. Her hair cascaded in loose waves down her shoulders, and she added just a touch of makeup to enhance her natural features. Most importantly, she aimed for comfort, allowing herself to move freely without restrictions. So, she opted for cargo jeans and a top that was neither too loose nor too tight, giving her the flexibility to sit as she pleased.

Precisely at eight o'clock, the doorbell chimed, and Ava's heart skipped a beat. She hurried to the door and greeted Billy with a warm smile. "Hey there! Come on in," she said, ushering him inside.

Billy stepped into her cozy living room, taking in the inviting atmosphere. Ava led him to the living room sofa and asked, "What would you like to drink?"

"Surprise me," Billy replied with a grin, putting his bag down next to the couch.

As Ava poured a glass of red wine for herself and selected a cold beer for Billy, Billy looked around at all the games she had stationed below her TV. He noticed that the shelf was mostly dominated by first- person shooters, which definitely added to her already interesting persona. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, Billy proposed a game. "How about a shooter?

Ava raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the proposition. "You sure you’re up for it Russo?"

Billy grinned as he leaned closer, bumping her shoulder and giving her a wink.

Ava's fingers danced skillfully on her controller, and her character dashed forward, dodging enemy fire and seeking cover behind a ruined building. Billy's character followed closely, his movements smooth and calculated. As they made their way through the virtual warzone, taking down opponents one by one, Ava couldn't help but admire Billy's gameplay. He moved with an effortless grace, his reflexes lightning-fast, and it seemed like he was always one step ahead of the enemy.

Billy took out an opponent with a perfectly aimed headshot. "Nice one," she exclaimed, a hint of admiration in her voice.

Billy responded with a quick acknowledging smile before returning his focus to the game. They continued to press forward, coordinating their movements, and taking out enemies with precision. The teamwork between them was flawless, and their characters made it through wave after wave of adversaries.

Amidst the chaos, Ava couldn't help but notice how calm and collected Billy remained. He didn't panic under the pressure, always seeming in control and his accuracy was on point. His cool demeanor was oddly attractive to her, and she found herself stealing glances at him from the corner of her eye.

As the game progressed, their characters faced tougher challenges, but their synergy only grew stronger. Ava leaned in closer to the screen, her excitement evident in her voice, "You're really good at this, Russo."

Billy's character took down another enemy with a well-placed grenade, then turned to Ava with a mischievous grin. "I've had some practice," he replied, his eyes briefly locking with hers before returning to the game.

They pushed through one more intense wave, fighting off enemies with relentless determination. But as they reached a particularly difficult part of the game, their luck ran out. A hail of bullets rained down on their characters, and they were both taken out simultaneously.

Ava sighed in mock disappointment. "Well, that was a good run while it lasted."

Billy's character respawned, and he chuckled, "It was. We make a pretty great team, don't we?"

Ava couldn’t help but smile, they did indeed.

"You want another drink?" Ava asked him.

After a short silence, she looked at the couch where Billy no longer was. At the same time, she noticed his presence behind her as he spoke.

Putting her wine glass on the counter, he replied, "Yes, please." His warm breath tickled against her ear.

Returning to the couch, Billy asked, "You wanna go head to head this time? I'm dying to find out just how good you are at this."

Ava turned to face him, a playful glint in her eye matching the challenge in his tone. "Oh, you're on, Billy. Prepare to be impressed."

As the game began, Ava and Billy were on opposite teams, and the tension in the room grew palpable. They clashed fiercely, exchanging shots and trying to outmaneuver each other. The virtual bullets flew, and their characters moved with precision.

Minutes turned into what felt like hours as they dueled relentlessly. Both were skilled gamers, and neither was giving an inch. Ava knew she had to bring her A-game to defeat Billy, who was proving to be a formidable opponent.

The climax of the match arrived, and Ava found a vantage point to take her shot. She aimed carefully and fired. Her shot hit true, and Billy's character fell.

The victory screen declared Ava the winner, and she couldn't help but smile as she looked at Billy.

"Gotcha," she said, with a triumphant tone.

Billy laughed, a mix of admiration and good-natured competitiveness in his voice. "You're quick, Ava. Well played. How about we make things a bit interesting for the next round? Put a little healthy pressure behind it.’’

Ava raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Interesting in what way?"

Billy leaned in a bit closer, his voice lowering to a conspiratorial tone. "How about a little wager?

Ava chuckled, accepting the challenge with a smile. "You're on. When I win, I want a tour of Anvil, everything you can show me. I'm curious to see how it all works."

"Alright," Billy agreed. "But when I win... I want to take you on a date."

Ava couldn't help but take a flirty and playful jab at Billy's proposition. "A date, huh? I don't know, Billy, I might have to add something else to my bet to make it even."

Billy raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by her challenge. "Oh, really? What do you propose?"

Ava leaned in, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Well, if I win, you not only give me that tour of Anvil, but you also have to show me some of your impressive fighting tricks. Deal?"

Billy chuckled, his competitive spirit undaunted. "You drive a hard bargain, Ava. Deal. But don't think you're going to win again.’’

The game began, and this time, Billy's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. His reflexes were faster, his aim was dead-on, and he seemed to know the virtual battlefield like the back of his hand. Wave after wave, he dominated the match, leaving Ava struggling to keep up.

As the game came to a close, the victory screen declared Billy the winner. Ava looked at him in disbelief, realizing that he had been holding back in the first round.

Ava couldn't help but shake her head in disbelief. "You were definitely holdin' back in the first game, weren't you, Russo?"

He grinned, his response a mix of pride and amusement. "Maybe just a little. Gotta keep you on your toes, right?" As he leaned back, he continued, "And I had to make sure I could take you on that date, sweetheart."

As they got up to fetch another round of drinks to celebrate Billy's victory, he noticed something peculiar in Ava's fruit bowl. It was a small, folded piece of paper, tucked beneath an apple. He picked it up, curiosity piqued, looking at Ava for silent permission.

Indicating that he could read it, she started explaining, "I found a bouquet in front of my door after our rendezvous at the bar. Might have been a prank, or maybe someone left it on the wrong doorstep."

Billy raised an eyebrow, concern etching across his features. "Have you noticed anythin' else suspicious recently?"

Ava thought for a moment before shaking her head. "No, not really."

Billy couldn't help but adopt a protective tone. "Well, how about this? To ease my mind, why don't you come train with me sometime, even if it's just for fun?" He added with a flirty demeanor, "I get to show you some tricks after all."

Ava smiled at his suggestion. "Sure, that sounds like a great idea."

As Ava playfully tried to snatch the note from Billy's hand. In a split second, he instinctively grabbed her wrist, preventing her from snatching the paper. She threw him a mischievous smile, their eyes locking in a playful exchange. Not one to be outdone, she quickly gave him a playful poke in the ribs. A chuckle escaped from Billy as her touch tickled him, and he playfully surrendered, letting go of her wrist.

Deciding to put the note back where he found it, Billy made a mental note of Ava's agility. They continued to chat and enjoy each other's company. Ava asked, "Are you hungry? Should we order some pizza?"

Billy's stomach growled in response, and he nodded with a grin. "Pizza sounds perfect.’’

As they decided on their pizza order, Ava grabbed her phone and dialed the local pizzeria. After a quick conversation, she confirmed their order and hung up.

"Great, it'll be here in about 30 minutes," she announced, placing the phone back on the table.

With their order placed, Ava took their empty dishes to the kitchen and returned with two fresh drinks. They continued chatting, sipping on their drinks and enjoying the anticipation of their meal.

When the doorbell rang, signaling the pizza's arrival, Ava got up and headed for the door. She greeted the delivery person and handled the payment. With the warm pizza box in hand, she returned to the living room.

As she opened the box and noticed the pizza wasn't cut thoroughly, Ava acted on instinct. Without a moment's hesitation, she reached into her boot and drew a small, sharp knife.

While she focused on slicing the pizza, she sensed Billy's gaze on her. When she looked up, she found him raising an eyebrow, an expression of surprise mixed with amusement on his face. "Carrying a knife in your boot as well, huh?" he remarked, his voice tinged with humor.

Ava couldn't help but smile mischievously. "Makes you wonder what else I have on my body, doesn't it Russo?"

Billy nearly choked on his drink, caught off guard by her flirty remark.

This woman will be the death of him.

MAIN MASTERLIST HIDDEN MASTERLIST CHAPTER 5

[imsparky2002]

Batraculous: Sniper Bat

Character Name: Soo-Yeon Park

Miraculous Hero Name: Sniper Bat

Appearance: Soo-Yeon, known as Sniper Bat, boasts a sharp and athletic appearance. His spiky, short black hair adds a sense of edginess to his look, while his almond-shaped black eyes radiate intensity. Medium olive skin complements his features, and he has a tall, lean yet athletic build, ideal for his basketball prowess. Soo-Yeon typically dresses in casual but sporty attire, reflecting his practical and athletic nature.

Bio: Soo-Yeon prefers he/him pronouns and is considered the "dad" of both his class and basketball team. He takes on the role of looking out for everyone, whether on class trips or during games, and he's known for being a damn good cook. In the world of basketball, he's nicknamed "The Sniper" for his extraordinary accuracy from long distances. His tall and lanky build makes him a valuable player on the court, but he can be clumsy outside of it. Soo-Yeon is not one for trash talk; he's cold and calculated when playing, making every move count. He's also a huge Kpop fan, showcasing his diverse interests.

Batsuit Description: Sniper Bat's batsuit is a testament to Soo-Yeon's incredible proficiency from long range, featuring a sleek and efficient design.

Cowl: Soo-Yeon's cowl has a streamlined and aerodynamic appearance, resembling a sleek helmet. It includes enhanced targeting systems with crosshairs and a built-in heads-up display that provides vital information about his surroundings and akuma targets. The cowl also has a voice-activated communication system for precise coordination with his fellow heroes.

Cape: His cape is a deep, rich shade of midnight blue, symbolizing the night sky and his precision in the dark. It features subtle star-like patterns and enhances his stealth capabilities. The cape can transform into a set of glider wings that allow Soo-Yeon to soar through the air with incredible accuracy.

Armor: Sniper Bat's armor is designed for agility and mobility, allowing for swift and precise movements. It's made from lightweight but durable materials, providing protection without compromising his range of motion. The armor includes retractable throwing blades on his forearms for both long-range attacks and close combat.

Gadgets: His utility belt contains a range of gadgets suited for long-range accuracy. Soo-Yeon carries specialized bolas that he can throw with pinpoint precision to immobilize akumas from a distance. He also has a set of smoke pellets that release a thin, dark smoke to obscure vision and create cover for strategic positioning.

Sniper Bat's batsuit embodies Soo-Yeon's exceptional precision and accuracy from long distances. With his cold and calculated approach to combat and his sharpshooting skills, he plays a crucial role in the Miraculous heroes' efforts to protect Paris from akuma threats. His batsuit ensures that every shot he takes hits its mark with unparalleled precision.

Thanks to ChatGPT for assistance. Make sure to reblog, reply, post and ask for more. @artzychic27 @msweebyness

[venomizedstar]

SO, I noticed I don’t explained the Ordem Paranormal Classes so... I’m going to explain now!

Classes are a series of playstyles created and introduced in the AOP series. They were introduced in Ordem Paranormal: Desconjuração under the name Archetypes as routes to building your character's style in both investigation and battle, granting abilities and skill bonuses as rewards.

In Ordem Paranormal: Calamidade, the definitive name became Classes, with the addition of subclasses known as Paths, which in a creative way, change the way the player can use their abilities to survive in the universe.

Theres three classes: Combatente/Combatant, Especialista/Specialist and Ocultista/ Occultist.

Combatente: An expert in bladed weapons and guns, this kind of agent serves as the front line in fight against the Other Side.

The paths are:

Aniquilador/Annihilator: Trained to take down targets with efficiency and speed. Their weapons are their best friends and they take care of them as well as their teammates. Maybe even better;

Guerreiro/Warrior: They’re trained your musculature and movements to the point of turning their body into a true weapon. With melee strikes as powerful as a bullet, they face danger head-on;

Comandante de Campo/Field Commander: Without a commander, a battle is nothing more than a pub brawl. They are trained to coordinate and assist their companions in combat, making quick decisions and taking best advantage of their allies' situation and talent;

Operações Especiais/Special Operations: They are effective fighters. Their actions are calculated and optimized, always anticipating enemy movements and positioning themselves in the most intelligent way on the battlefield;

Tropa de Choque/Riot Police: They're a tough one. They have trained their body to withstand physical trauma, making it virtually unbreakable, and so they are not afraid to place themselves between their allies and danger.

Especialista: With knowledge, cleverness and smoothness, this agent is focused on solving different problems.

The paths are:

Atirador de Elite/Sniper: One shot one kill. Unlike combatants, they are adept at neutralizing threats from afar, ending a fight before it even starts. They treat their weapon like a precision tool, being able to perform incredible feats;

Infiltrador/Infiltrator: They are experts in infiltration and know how to neutralize unsuspecting targets without causing a fuss. Combining acrobatic talent, manual dexterity and technical knowledge they are able to overcome any defensive barrier, even when the mission seems impossible;

Médico de Campo/Field Doctor: They are trained in first aid and emergency treatment techniques, making they a valuable member of any agent group. Unlike conventional healthcare professionals, they are used to the battlefield and know how to make quick decisions in the midst of chaos;

Negociador/Negotiator: They are skilled diplomats and can influence others, whether through smooth talk or intimidation. Their ability to quickly and efficiently assess situations can get the group out of trouble that even the most powerful of weapons could not solve;

Técnico/Technitian: Their main skill is the maintenance and repair of the valuable equipment that their team carries on a mission. They technical knowledge also allows them to improvise tools with whatever they has at hand and sabotage the items used by his enemies.

Ocultista: A scholar of the paranormal, who seeks to understand the mysteries of the elements and use them to his advantage.

The paths are:

Conduíte/Conduit: They master the fundamental aspects of ritual casting and are able to increase the range and speed of their spellcasting. As their connection to paranormal entities increases, they become able to interfere with other occultists' rituals;

Flagelador/Scourger: Pain is a powerful paranormal catalyst, and they've learned to turn it into power for their rituals. When they becomes especially powerful, they are able to use the pain and suffering of their enemies as an instrument of his occult rituals;

Graduado/Graduate: They focus their studies on becoming a versatile and powerful spellcaster, knowing more rituals than other occultists and being able to make them more difficult to resist. Their goal is to unlock and master the secrets of the Other Side, no matter what the cost.

Intuitivo/Intuitive: Just as combatants train their bodies to withstand physical trauma, they prepare their minds to withstand the effects of the Other Side. Their focus and willpower allow them to expand the limits of their paranormal abilities.

Lâmina Paranormal/Paranormal Blade: Some occultists prefer to stay shut in their libraries studying books and rituals. Others prefer to investigate paranormal phenomena at their source. They prefer to use the paranormal as a weapon. They learned and mastered fighting techniques by blending their spellcasting skills with their combat capabilities.

Theres more paths for each class, but since are just some people who have the access to them, and I am not one of them, I can't explain now

Elementos | Teams | O Segredo na Ilha

[merge-conflict]

first of two coming your way because ofc i gotta know about both my fav thief and the giant woman

so for the sentient fashion-crime that is Val; glance, motion, formal, wardrobe, and texture? :3c

sdlfkja poor Valentine can't catch a break xD Questions are here

glance: At first glance, what stands out most about your OC's appearance? What's their distinguishing feature?

First impression for Valentine is probably 1) she's tall (6'2"/187cm) and 2) she's always "on". Like you know those people who always seem to have too much energy? Always thinking away at something, or working on something, etc. People making eye contact with Val always come away with the impression she's up to something (correct). More physically– she has heavy eyebrows and sorta.. deep-set eyes (think Bill Skarsgärd, although their facial shapes are different), which really fuels the intense, over-caffeinated and under-rested aura she gives off (but which is also usually correct).

motion: How does your OC move? How does their clothing help or hinder their range of motion? Are they flexible, coordinated, clumsy?

Valentine has excellent kinesthetic and proprioceptive sense (aided by her network proprioception, e.g. she has implants that let her feel parts of the EM spectrum like physical sensation. Think like when you can feel currents underwater.) She will only wear clothing where she has a decent range of motion, and she has never and would never wear heels or anything with a sole too thick to run in. The way she moves is not necessary elegant or graceful, but it is precise and calculated, even when she's fidgeting. She almost always knows if someone is moving behind her, or what the flow of a crowd is like, or that if she takes two steps back without looking she can grab the screwdriver she left on her desk four hours ago... that kind of thing.

formal: What's your OC's formal look? Do they like dressing up? Do they have different looks for different occasions?

Valentine has like... 4 outfits but she buys the pieces in a few different colors so she's not too monotonous. Her standard look for work is a button down + tie, occasionally she'll add a vest. If it's more formal than that, she'll wear a suit jacket. She's pretty comfortable in standard office wear, and she does like the ritual of getting dressed for formal occasions, but she doesn't really have interest in the clothes or outfits for their own sake. Clothes are just useful for setting the mood or expectations, just like how she might greet different people with different formality.

wardrobe: How big is your character's wardrobe? Do they wear things threadbare, or can they afford new clothes often? Are they any good at mending and repairing their own clothing?

She has a pretty modest wardrobe by corpo standards, and unless she gets attached to a pair of sweatpants or shoes she's worn in, she generally rotates it as often as she can be reminded to refresh it. I imagine there's some sort of tailored bachelor service available for corpos like her who just sort of let someone else pick their wardrobe according to whatever specification. When she's living the merc life, she ends up sort of reverting to her default packrat ways, but also with cheaper clothes available to her ends up burning through stuff quickly.

texture: Does your OC favor any specific kinds of cloth or textures? Is there anything they can't wear or don't like? What sort of fabrics do they prefer?

The weight and quality of fabric is actually a lot more relevant to Valentine than most other fashion concerns. She'll pay for quality over flash whenever she can, mostly because it means she doesn't have to think about it as often. If it's breathable, flexible, comfortable, and durable than it's good, otherwise it's a stupid thing to wear. Occasionally she feels the urge to be bright or iridescent and buy something that isn't super comfortable but is flashy or colorful, but she'll abandon it the moment she gets tired of it and be satisfied. There have been nights on the town where she just sheds some bright awkward outerwear and just...leaves it wherever.

[smartmathtutoring]

The Benefits of Abacus Math for Kids' Cognitive Growth

Giving children a strong basis in math is absolutely necessary for their academic and personal growth in the fast-paced environment of today. An Abacus Math Program is an efficient and interesting approach to help younger students develop their mathematical abilities. Often considered old-fashioned, this ancient tool has attracted more interest lately for its capacity to raise children's cognitive skills. Children who use the abacus learn critical thinking, concentration, and memory techniques in addition to how to do calculations. An Abacus Math Program is not only for number crunching; it also helps children's cognitive development and general brain development be much improved.

Enhancing Cognitive Skills Through Abacus Math

The capacity of an Abacus Math Program to raise a child's cognitive abilities is its most important advantage. Children who learn how to use the abacus simultaneously activate several areas of the brain, which enhances focus, concentration, and memory. Visualizing the abacus beads during computation activates the left and right hemispheres of the brain, so fostering complete cognitive development. Children who learn to control the beads are concurrently developing their hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills.

Abacus math pushes children to think faster and more precisely than conventional pencil-and-paper approaches. Their capacity for quick mental arithmetic is improved by the need to see numbers and compute mentally. This not only speeds up their arithmetic but also aids in the development of great mental agility applicable in other spheres of life. Moving the abacus beads physically strengthens fine motor skills and helps memory retention, so enhancing brain development. The dynamic interaction with the abacus helps a child's capacity to hold and manipulate information strengthen; this can lead to improved academic performance and more confident problem-solving abilities.

Building Strong Math Skills and Confidence

Another great approach for youngsters to develop strong arithmetic abilities is an abacus math program. Children who practice arithmetic on the abacus develop hands-on, interesting addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division skills. Abstract mathematical ideas are far simpler to grasp using this tactile and visual method. Children can physically see how numbers interact with one another as they move the beads to symbolize calculations and numbers, so giving math more concrete and simple feel.

Moreover, using the abacus helps children to solve problems on their own, so increasing their confidence. They grow in self-belief and accomplishment as they observe their own development and start to master ever more difficult challenges. Beyond arithmetic, this confidence can inspire a good attitude toward learning and enable kids feel more competent in other spheres of study. The more they interact with the abacus, the more skilled they grow to be, which inspires pride and drive to keep learning. Children who participate in an Abacus Math Program have the tools they need to approach mathematics with confidence and excitement, so laying a strong academic basis for their future.

Supporting Mental and Emotional Development

Apart from the intellectual and cognitive advantages, abacus arithmetic helps a child develop mentally and emotionally. Abacus practice's regimented, repeated character helps kids grow in patience and endurance. Regular abacus use teaches children the value of diligence and tenacity as well as how to use it. They also develop control over their learning process, which helps them to change their general attitude toward homework and challenges of learning.

Furthermore, learning an Abacus Math Program can help youngsters develop a good self-image by means of accomplishment. They grow more independent and resilient as they advance through the program and pick up fresh abilities. Whether in school, extracurricular activities, or social events, the ability to rapidly and precisely solve math problems also increases their confidence in other spheres of life. Together with cognitive development, this emotional development prepares one for a balanced personal development.

Enrolling your child in an Abacus Math Program could help you provide them an educational edge. Along with learning useful mathematical skills, they will also grow academically, cognitively, and emotionally which will help them for years to come. Visit Smart Math Tutoring for further information and to register to find out more about how an abacus math program might benefit your child.

[secretofresearch]

3D Reconstruction: Capturing the World in Three Dimensions

3D reconstruction refers to the process of capturing the shape and appearance of real objects using specialized scanners and software and converting those scans into digital 3D models. These 3D models allow us to represent real-world objects in virtual 3D space on computers very accurately. The technology behind 3D reconstruction utilizes a variety of different scanning techniques, from laser scanning to photometric stereo, in order to digitally preserve real objects and environments.

History and Early Developments

One of the earliest forms of 3D scanning and reconstruction dates back to the 1960s, when laser range scanning first emerged as a method. Early laser scanners were slow and bulky, but provided a way to accurately capture 3D coordinates from surfaces. In the 1970s and 80s, raster stereo techniques came about, using cameras instead of lasers to capture depth maps of scenes. Over time, scanners got faster, accuracy improved, and multiple scanning technologies started to converge into unified 3D modeling pipelines. By the 1990s, digitizing entire buildings or archeological sites became possible thanks to the increased capabilities of 3D reconstruction tools and hardware.

Photogrammetry and Structure from Motion

One major development that helped accelerate 3D Reconstruction was the emergence of photogrammetry techniques. Photogrammetry uses 2D imagery, often from consumer cameras, to extract 3D geometric data. Structure from motion algorithms allow one to take unordered image collections, determine overlapping features across images, and reconstruct the camera positions and a sparse 3D point cloud. These image-based methods paved the way for reconstructing larger exterior environments accurately and cheaply compared to laser scanners alone. Photogrammetry is now a widely used technique for cultural heritage documentation, architecture projects, and even film/game production.

Integral 3D Scanning Technologies

Today there are many 3D scanning technologies in use for different types of objects and environments. Structured light scanning projects patterns of lines or dots onto surfaces and reads distortions from a camera to calculate depth. It works well for industrial inspection, small objects and scanning interiors with controlled lighting. Laser scanning uses time-of-flight or phase-shift measurements to rapidly capture millions of precise 3D data points. Laser scanners excel at large outdoor environments like cultural heritage sites, construction projects and full building documentation. Multi-view stereo and photometric stereo algorithms fuse together image collections into full and detailed 3D reconstructions even with untextured surfaces.

Applications in Mapping and Modeling

3D reconstruction mapping applications are widespread. Cultural heritage sites are extensively documented with 3D models to make high resolution digital archives and share artifacts globally online. Forensic reconstruction of accident or crime scenes relies on 3D modeling to understand what happened. Engineering companies use 3D scans to digitally inspect parts for quality control. Manufacturers design products in CAD but validate and improve designs with physical prototypes that are 3D scanned. Cities are mapped in 3D with aerial and mobile scanning to plan infrastructure projects or monitor urban development over time. The gaming and animation industries also reconstruct detailed digital environments, objects and characters for immersive 3D experiences. Advancing computing power allows more complex reconstructions than ever before across many industries.

Ongoing Developments and the Future of 3D

There is continued work to improve the speed, resolution, automation and scaling of 3D acquisition techniques. Multi-sensor fusion and simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is leading to capabilities like interior mapping with handheld scanners. Artificial intelligence and deep learning are also entering the field with applications like automatically registering separate scans or recognizing objects in 3D data. On the modeling side, semantics and building information models (BIM) are merging geometric shapes with metadata, properties and relationships. Advances will open the door to dynamic 3D representations that change over time, interaction with virtual objects through augmented reality and further immersive experiences in artificial worlds reconstructed from real environments. The future vision is seamlessly integrating virtual 3D spaces with our daily physical world.

Get more insights on 3D Reconstruction

About Author:

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)

[joeabdelsater2]

Procedural Grass Generation in Ghost of Tsushima

Following my exploration of procedural terrain building, I was pretty intrigued by how grass and foliage generation can be made procedural as well with the use of similar techniques. I was surprised to find out that the two have completely different processes as grass tends to be quite memory and performance-expensive. That's when I came across a different Game Developers Conference video on the subject, posted on YouTube. The talk is by graphics programmer and rendering engineer at Sucker Punch Productions Eric Wohllaib, and he explains how the studio was able to generate and animate grass without it being memory-heavy.

To my knowledge, grass in games has generally been created using grass cards. But, as it turns out, traditional grass cards tend to be heavy on rendering especially when the foliage is meant to be densely populated in the environment. The speaker mentioned that they had experimented with grass cards but since wind was a big factor in their gameplay they wanted to be able to create something more flexible and accomodating in terms of animation and simulation. The grass is meant to interact with the wind mechanics in order to guide players in-game, as well as react to all characters moving through it. This led them to develop a system of grass which Wohllaib describes as "artist-configurable" where each grass blade is rendered individually, allowing for greater flexibility and realism.

In the early stages of the game design, they drew inspiration from a blog post by Outerra called "Procedural grass rendering", which they used to create their own pipeline and test out the integration of this new technology into the game. The process begins by dividing the game world into tiles, each containing information about the terrain and the type of grass to be rendered. A compute shader is then used to determine the position and characteristics of each grass blade within the tile. This includes factors such as height, orientation, and interaction with wind. Those tiles are further subdivided into sub-tiles that are considered for rendering. They take samples from smaller sections from the main textures applied to the parent tiles. This segmentation strategy not only streamlines computational processes but also facilitates efficient memory management and optimization techniques.

From here, a complex compute shader takes the lead in coordinating the development of the lush environment. It organises the specific movement of individual grass blades throughout the landscape by analyzing their precise position and features inside the chosen tile, using a combination of mathematical data and manual input. Each lane in the compute shader gets a position on the tile's grid to add a random offset and set the blade's definitive position. Height, being the most important of characteristics, is measured for each grass blade so that they can be assigned different altitudes based on the topographical data contained in the tile. For example, tiles that either have the "null grass" type or have a height of "zero" are dropped, which results in a realistic undulation that matches real-life grass.

The team noticed that the fields in the game did not look natural, but messy and random. To address this, they introduced a clumping algorithm based on a procedural Voronoi system which groups grass blades into clusters, allowing for variations in height, direction, and other environment-affected aspects. The system searches for the nearest nine points on a grid, and then the nearest two points of this bunch are used as a guide for the clump. A clump's guide point can control both the height of grass blades and their direction, attracting them to each other or making them pull away. A second compute shader then runs when the first one is done, to transfer the calculated blade count, which represents the total number of grass blades to be rendered within the tile. This step gives instructions for the graphics processing unit (GPU) on how to render the grass blades efficiently.

Upon completion of the second compute shader, the graphics pipeline kicks in, invoking the vertex shaders responsible for generating the geometric properties of the grass blades. They utilize the instance data generated by the compute shaders to render each grass blade according to its prescribed position, orientation, and other characteristics. A vertex shader is a graphics processing function used to add special effects to objects in a 3D environment. Each vertex can be defined by variables like location, based on the x, y, and z coordinates or colour coordinates. Vertex shaders don't change the type of data but change the values of the data (different colour, different textures, or a different position in space) (NVIDIA, n.d.). In Ghost of Tsushima, there are two versions of grass blades to be rendered: low Level of Detail (LOD) blades with 7 vertices, and high LOD blades with 15 vertices. Each vertex has a 0 to 1 value describing its position on the length of the blade and whether it's situated on the left or right side. To transition between both LODs smoothly, the high LOD gradually blends into the low LOD as the camera view approaches it to prevent the new vertex shader from abruptly popping up.

Although the grass blades have two LODs, the landscape tiles themselves also have two LODs that need to be changed depending on the player's distance. Low LOD tiles are twice the size of high LOD tiles, but since both have the same number of grass blades each, 3 out of 4 grass blades of a high LOD tile switch to their low LOD version first before the entire tile is replaced by its low LOD version. This is also to ensure that the transition is seamless when moving away from the rendered tile. One thing that I found absolutely genius is how when a grass blade is short enough, the number of vertices is reduced to create another grass blade next to it, regardless of LOD level. For instance, if a short grass blade has 15 vertices in its high LOD form, 8 vertices may be used to create the initial grass blade and 7 others to create a second grass blade. This helps make areas of low-height grass look denser, thus giving them a more natural look.

Each grass blade's shape is defined by a cubic bezier curve, and control points within the curve allow precise manipulation of the blade's shape, facilitating animation and enabling a big set of grass shapes. To establish the position of control points, one parameter dictates the tip's position relative to the base, influenced by the facing direction of the curve. The midpoint's placement is determined by another parameter; a value of 0 aligns it with the base-to-tip line, while positive values elevate it away from this line. In cases of split blades, the general shape is maintained, but control points are adjusted to increase coverage while preserving directionality.

Once control points are defined, determining the world space position of each vertex can be done by using a zero to one value to denote the blade's position along the curve. The facing direction guides the generation of a normal orthogonal to it (perpendicular segment), which helps determine vertex positions along the blade's width. Tapering towards the tip is achieved by scaling the distance based on the blade's width and position along the curve. Finally, vertex normals are computed by finding the derivative of the Bezier curve at each vertex position and crossing it with the previously determined normal, in this manner, creating a render of the face of a blade.

Lots of other micro details help make the grass look more convincing and three-dimensional, such as opacity levels, ambient occlusion, colour variation and faked shadows. One notable technique that I found very interesting is the bumping out of the normals of grass blades by tilting them outwards at the centre, making them look rounded. One thing worth mentioning is that the grass is animated based on a dynamic wind system based on a 2D Perlin noise which is scrolled into the direction the wind is supposed to be blowing in. It gives a simple push force that affects all elements of the environment especially the movement of the grass.

In conclusion, studying the grass rendering techniques employed in Ghost of Tsushima has helped me understand the use of compute vertex shaders for procedural grass generation, and the implementation of Bezier curves for precise shaping. Grass being a main actor in the game's narrative, it is clear that the studio wanted to put lots of effort into achieving the best results. This realisation has inspired me to reassess my approach to environment art, recognising the significance of seemingly minor details in the overall aesthetic of a game environment. It helped me acknowledge that micro details can be used procedurally to achieve dynamic environments, even when dealing with elements that may not be individually crafted.

References:

Outerra. (2012). Outerra: Procedural grass rendering. [e- journal] Outerra. Available at: https://outerra.blogspot.com/2012/05/procedural-grass-rendering.html

Eric Wohllaib. (2022). GDC - Procedural Grass in ‘Ghost of Tsushima’. [online video] YouTube. Available at: https://youtu.be/Ibe1JBF5i5Y

www.nvidia.com. (n.d.). Vertex Shaders|NVIDIA. [online] Available at: https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/drivers/feature-vertexshader/#:~:text=A%20vertex%20shader%20is%20a.

[scan2bims]

Point Clouds Bim Transformed into As-Builts Drawings

Introduction:

In the world of building design and construction, being accurate is important. Every detail, every measurement, holds significance in the creation and maintenance of structures. Traditionally, the process of capturing existing conditions and translating them into accurate representations for further design and construction phases has been labor-intensive and prone to errors. However, with advancements in technology, particularly the utilization of point clouds in Building Information Modeling (BIM), a transformative shift has occurred.

How are point clouds generated?

Point clouds, generated through technologies such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and photogrammetry, offer a comprehensive three-dimensional representation of physical spaces. They capture millions of data points, each with its precise coordinates, allowing for an incredibly detailed depiction of existing structures. Historically, this wealth of data posed challenges in its utilization, often overwhelming professionals with its sheer volume and complexity. However, the integration of point clouds with BIM has revolutionized the AEC industry by streamlining workflows and enhancing accuracy.

One of the primary applications of point clouds in BIM lies in the creation of accurate as-built drawings. Traditionally, creating as-builts involved manual measurement of existing structures, a time-consuming and error-prone endeavor. However, by leveraging point cloud data, professionals can now digitally capture existing conditions with unprecedented precision. Every nook, cranny, and dimension is meticulously recorded, providing a foundation for accurate as-built drawings.

Acquisition of point cloud:

The transformation begins with the acquisition of point cloud data through LiDAR or photogrammetry. LiDAR systems emit laser pulses and measure the time taken for them to return after bouncing off objects, thereby calculating distances and generating point clouds. Photogrammetry, on the other hand, relies on overlapping photographs to triangulate the position of objects and create a point cloud. Once the data is captured, it is processed to remove noise and align individual point clouds into a cohesive model.

With the point cloud data processed and aligned, the next step is to extract meaningful information from it. This involves segmenting the point cloud to identify individual elements such as walls, floors, and structural components. Advanced algorithms and software facilitate this process, automatically recognizing patterns and shapes within the point cloud data. Once segmented, the point cloud can be used as a reference to create precise 3D models of existing structures.

Integration of point cloud with BIM:

The integration of point clouds with BIM software further enhances their utility in creating as-built drawings. BIM platforms enable professionals to overlay point cloud data with existing design models, facilitating comparison and analysis. This integration allows for a seamless transition from capturing existing conditions to incorporating them into the design process. Design changes can be made with confidence, knowing they are based on accurate representations of the existing structure.

Accuracy:

Moreover, point clouds offer a level of detail and accuracy that surpasses traditional surveying methods. They capture not only geometric dimensions but also nuances such as surface textures and irregularities. This level of fidelity ensures that as-built drawings are not just accurate but also reflective of the true character of the structure. Whether it's capturing the intricate ornamentation of a historic building or the complex geometry of a modern architectural marvel, point clouds deliver a level of detail that was previously unattainable.

Benefits of utilizing point cloud in as-built drawings:

The benefits of utilizing point clouds in creating as-built drawings extend beyond accuracy. They also offer significant time and cost savings compared to traditional methods. By streamlining the data capture process and eliminating the need for manual measurements, professionals can expedite project timelines and reduce labor costs. Furthermore, the digital nature of point cloud data allows for easy sharing and collaboration among project stakeholders, fostering greater efficiency and communication.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the integration of point clouds with BIM has transformed the creation of as-built drawings in the AEC industry. What was once a labor-intensive and error-prone process has now become streamlined, efficient, and highly accurate. Point clouds offer a wealth of data that, when leveraged effectively, provide a foundation for precise and detailed representations of existing structures. As technology continues to advance, the marriage of point clouds and BIM promises to revolutionize further the way we design, construct, and maintain the built environment.

[imsparky2002]

Batraculous: Math Bat

Character Name: Eloise Matuidi

Miraculous Hero Name: Math Bat

Appearance: Eloise, known as Math Bat, has an intelligent and understated appearance. Her short black bob cut is both practical and elegant. Sharp green eyes, framed by thick glasses, convey her analytical and focused nature. Medium pale skin complements her features, and she has a beauty mark on her chin that adds a touch of uniqueness. Eloise possesses a smart and sensible style, often dressing in attire that reflects her practical and logical approach to life.

Bio: Eloise prefers she/her pronouns and is a mathematical genius with a rational and analytical mind that sets her apart. She tends to favor logical reasoning over emotional responses, which can sometimes lead to challenges in expressing her own feelings and understanding those of others. However, Eloise is a steadfast friend who is always willing to offer her expertise as a tutor when needed. She is also a highly skilled gamer, showcasing her ability to strategize and think critically.

Batsuit Description: Math Bat's batsuit reflects Eloise's mathematical prowess, analytical mindset, and practical approach to problem-solving, featuring a sleek and functional design.

Cowl: Eloise's cowl has a geometric and minimalist design, resembling a mathematical graph. It includes advanced analytical tools that provide real-time data and calculations during battles. The cowl also features a voice-activated communication system for precise coordination with her fellow heroes.

Cape: Her cape is a deep, rich shade of midnight blue, symbolizing her commitment to logic and analysis. The cape is adorned with mathematical equations and formulas, adding an intellectual touch. The cape can transform into a set of wings that grant her enhanced mobility and the ability to glide with precision.

Armor: Math Bat's armor is practical and efficient, allowing for fluid movements and precise calculations. It features patterns inspired by fractals and mathematical patterns. The armor includes reinforced gauntlets with retractable tools for solving puzzles, hacking, and performing precise tasks.

Gadgets: Her utility belt contains a range of mathematical-themed gadgets. Eloise carries a pocket-sized supercomputer that assists in complex calculations and strategical analysis during battles. She also has a set of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) devices for disabling akuma technology and disrupt their attacks.

Math Bat's batsuit embodies Eloise's mathematical brilliance and her analytical mindset, adding a touch of intellectual prowess to the Miraculous heroes of Paris. With her ability to calculate and strategize, she plays a critical role in solving complex problems and outsmarting akuma threats.

Thanks to ChatGPT for assistance. Make sure to reblog, reply, post and ask for more. @artzychic27 @msweebyness

[rapidestimatorsoftware]

Essentials Every Builder Should Know For Successful Home Remodeling 

Starting a home remodeling venture is an exciting endeavor with opportunities to breathe new life into a living space. Whether renovating a kitchen or bathroom or revamping the entire house, successful remodeling requires careful planning, attention to detail, and an understanding of the essentials. Let's explore key factors every builder should know to ensure a seamless and prosperous home remodeling journey.

Budget Management

Keeping a project within budget is essential for both builders and clients. Accurate cost estimation is key, and utilizing rapid estimating software can help builders generate precise quotes based on material costs, labor, and other expenses.

Quality Materials and Workmanship

Using high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship is non-negotiable for home remodeling. Cutting corners on materials or labor may result in subpar results and costly repairs down the line.

Adherence to Building Regulations

Builders must be well-versed in local building codes and regulations to ensure full compliance throughout the remodeling process. Noncompliance with these standards can lead to delays, fines, or even project shutdowns.

Flexibility and Problem-Solving Skills

No remodeling project is without its challenges. Builders must possess the flexibility and problem-solving skills to address unforeseen issues and adapt plans accordingly. This process may involve finding creative solutions or adjusting timelines as needed.

Attention to Detail

The devil is in the details, as they say. Builders should pay close attention to every aspect of the remodeling process, from precision measurements to finishing touches. A keen eye for detail ensures a polished result that exceeds client expectations.

Effective Time Management

Time is money in the world of home remodeling. Builders must create realistic timelines and milestones to keep the project on track. This approach involves coordinating subcontractors, scheduling inspections, and proactively addressing delays.

Client Satisfaction and Feedback

Establishing strong relationships with clients is paramount for long-term success. Builders should prioritize client satisfaction by actively seeking feedback throughout the remodeling process and addressing any concerns promptly.

Understanding Customer Demands

Understanding the requirements and desires of the client is fundamental to a successful remodeling project. Builders should listen attentively to customer preferences, maintain effective communication, and aim to surpass expectations at each process stage.

Creating Accurate Estimates

Creating a detailed, accurate estimate is one of the most critical steps in any remodeling project. Take the time to carefully calculate the costs of materials, labor, permits, and other expenses. Many builders use home remodeling software cost calculators to estimate project expenses quickly. This practice prevents unexpected costs from eating into profits later on.

Incorporating Trendy Practices

Keeping up with the latest trends and innovations in construction can give builders a competitive edge. Whether incorporating sustainable materials, implementing smart home technology, or embracing minimalist design principles, integrating trendy practices can enhance the appeal and value of a remodeled space.

Adding a Touch of Classic Era Look

Combining classic or bygone-era aesthetics can add character and charm to a remodeled space. Incorporating vintage fixtures, ornate moldings, or retro-inspired color palettes, paying homage to the past, can create a timeless and elegant ambiance.

Maintaining Organization and Cleanliness

Remodeling projects can easily get messy and disorganized. Make an effort to keep the workspace neat and the site clean. Create organized areas for materials storage and waste. At the end of each workday, clean up properly. This will make the project run more smoothly and efficiently.

Post-Project Support

Even after the remodeling dust has settled, builders should remain accessible to clients for post-project support or maintenance needs. A reputation for outstanding customer service can welcome referrals and repeat business opportunities in the future.

Successful home remodeling requires more than just technical skills and construction know-how. It demands attention to detail, effective time management, and a dedication to delivering quality work and ensuring client satisfaction. Investing the extra time upfront to do things right is well worth it for a thriving construction business.

[vulpes-nothus]

If you want to be a better at most ttrpgs, I highly recommend learning Call of Cthulu or Hunter (Vigil or Reckoning) for precisely this reason. Deadly combat is not always bad. Enemies much stronger than you is not always unfair. Both of these are very good horror games because they emphasize both points, and survival is predicated on both coordinating with your fellow players to maximize every possible advantage and engaging with the game scenario on a much deeper level to learn every possible fact, all to mitigate risk. And sometimes you still need to risk your character! But if you play well, you can make most of the risks calculated.

Deadly combat can be very good and very fun so long as you remember this trusim:

"Don't fight your battles with guns. Guns make you stupid and take stupid risks. Instead, you should fight your battles with duct tape. Duct tape makes you smart."

I don't know how to say this other than that D&D 5e should not be taken as the template of what RPGs are supposed to be like and should not be allowed to set expectations for what to expect from RPGs in general. Like, D&D 5e making assumptions that an Adventuring Day will consist of Encounters which need to be overcome so the Adventure can progress and that those Encounters should be designed in such a way that the party can be expected to overcome them. That's not neutral! All of that is actually heavily opinionated and already encodes a lot of expectations.