#socs: bolt

[sonic-oc-showdown]

ROUND 2 BRACKET A

Matilda belongs to @halcyon-pandion & @frostios

Bolt belongs to @addysfandomdump

Find out more about them below!

Matilda:

Funny ant who became a real girl through the power of love and SO many chaos drives. She was once Shadow's pet ant who he rescued from being eaten by Knuckles. After being fed chaos drives, Matilda suddenly formed a chao-like chrysalis and mutated into a Mobian. She now is the youngest member of Team Dark, basically a little sister to all of them. Her main goal now is to train enough to become as strong as she can to one day beat the shit out of Knuckles as petty revenge.

Bolt:

Bolt is best described as a nervous wreck. He's extremely anxious, a massive crybaby, and a huge coward. To be fair, it isn't entirely his fault. His almost-roboticization from Eggman Nega has left him quite scarred by the whole ordeal.

Bolt was kidnapped by Eggman Nega to test out his roboticization technology. Bolt was about 90% of the way through the process when out of sheer desperation his latent electricity powers activated and blew up the machine he was kept in. He used the opportunity to escape and has been living on the edge on insanity ever since.

Bolt is exceptionally powerful and incredibly fast. Despite his cowardice he can defeat most of his opponents in battle and can give Sonic a run for his money in the racing department. This is all immediately brought down by the fact that he's a giant loser. A pathetic little meow meow, if you will. He is transgender but has no t-boy swag. Absolutely zero sauce. He can beat the hell of out you if pressed but he will be shaking and crying and shitting himself the entire time while he does it. Sopping wet cat. I hope he loses the first round lmao.

Oh and he's also Blaze's distant cousin but that isn't really relevant in any significant way at all.

[sparrowmoth]

Thinking about Jesper and Nina as the last of the Crows. Thinking about Wylan, when he dies, and Inej and Kaz have gone already, and Jesper can't contain his grief. He throws himself at Nina, because she has power over the dead, doesn't she? That isn't how it works. But he isn't listening. He begs and pleads for her to bring Wylan back, to try at least—but she won't. She won't, no matter if he hates her for it, because all she can think of is the sight of Matthias and how wrong it was. How wrong to have tried to hold him back, to hold him to her.

She holds Jesper through the night as he sobs into her shoulder. She holds him tight even as he curses her. The both of them know he doesn't really mean it. They only have each other now...

But it isn't only them there.

Someone else is in the room, unseen, and he whispers into Nina's ear. Not her ear, exactly. More so her mind, but he sounds so present if she just closes her eyes. She wishes she could share this through more than translation, so Jesper would be sure... he's okay, he's okay.

He's somewhere else, but he's okay. And he loves you so much, Jes.

Her eyes are full of tears. She keeps them closed as not to let them fall. She whispers Wylan's words to Jesper. She feels him stilling in her arms and keeps on whispering until the words stop and she can't sense him anymore. He had to go, but he'll be waiting. He had to go, but you have time left. Don't rush to him. You'll have forever. It's just for now, so just be patient... you'll have forever. He'll be there waiting.

[addysfandomdump]

@sonic-oc-showdown​

More Bolt! Here’s an interesting drawing I made by accident (+ miscellaneous doodles of him, including beta designs!)

Let him in! He is cold!!

Bolt and Surge fight (or rather, flight)

Bolt crying to his cousin, Blaze

Bolt beating the shit out of Jet

Finally, some Beta Bolts! He used to be a lot cockier and more confident. He was also originally a recolor/edit of Blaze the Cat my partner made in 5th grade. I adopted him and made him my own.

[lieeleee]

My immediate thoughts after finishing Six of Crows

Please take with a grain of salt I jsut like analysing things roughly based on first impressions

My initial criticism of six of crows form jsut finishing reading it now is that it pulls the “kaz actually planned this or kaz actually had this one contingency plan or idea that might work” one too many times. Like the lock pick swallowing is silly and goofy but it also jsut made me break my suspension of disbelief and question how plausible all the other plans would have been by saying “actually kaz had been vomiting all those items up every hour and we hadn’t mentioned it till now”.

That isn’t a big deal at all really, it’s a funny moment, but it also made all of kaz’s mistakes when he really fucked how and had no counter plan near the end feel less shocking or tense because the wool had been pulled over my eyes one too many times for it to be believable that it was an absolute failure.

[ravenousgf]

♠️ Jesper

bisexual, hot mess, just stopped going to classes at some point without ever really intending to drop out, incapable of following through on buying people waffles, smart wrt very specific things, passionate about chasing what he can't have bc he feels like he doesn't deserve what he does

Send me a "♠️" and a Six of Crows character, and I'll respond with something we have in common!

[l0stfoster]

More Cursed Tulsa‼️‼️

Little things relating to the doodles of ur interested teehee‼️

- Darry (and Dally) are the only people who can hold Two’s perching weight, so Darry very commonly has a bird just, there.

- Dally still snaps and loses it. Johnny ‘dies’ (heart stopped, declared clinically dead— gets resuscitated though) and Dally bolted the second after he ‘died’. Dude gets shot by the cops, the gang gets him to the hospital and he lives thank god. Two stress plucks tho lmao.

- The socs who jumped two wear his stolen feathers out loud n proud. Just to mock him, pretty much. He is NOT happy and neither are the other harpies!

(Speaking of which, the Shepard gang is a bunch of harpies too, a lot of vultures compared to the Mathews being a crow)

- Two-Bit n Dally were childhood friends, he’s the one who found Two after he got jumped. Dally’s so pissed ab what happened with Pony n Johnny that he wants some sick gratitude by seeing exactly where Bob took his last breath, so that’s where he finds him. I AM SO BRAINROTTED ON THIS AU DUDE. It's so over, I can't come back from this. We got so much talked about for it and it's only existed for like 2 days, it's so good. We made an ao3 collection for the AU as well that you can find here! Timewing has already posted a little drabble to it, so have fun >:)

{ Tag List: @nova-drawzz @timewing06 }

[reve-writes]

—all aboard; kaz brekker.

ʚ kaz brekker x reader | grishaverse | 0,5k words.

ʚ kaz sees you off when you are leaving for shu han. will your feelings remain unuttered to the very last second?

ʚ post soc & ck; spoilers for crooked kingdom (major character death!); pining with no resolution (yet?); soft!kaz.

ʚ a/n — i wish i wrote more. consider this a writing warmup.

Kaz Brekker doesn't need a reason.

He never does, although you suspect he has always had his own justifications. His trick is to never let anyone know, to conceal his cards in places no one dares to look.

You stand on the docks. The sea ravenous and sprawling in front of you; Kaz pensive and his usual brooding self on your right. The air is salty, mixed with the stench of debauchery permanently wafting from the Barrell. Your belongings that you've accumulated in Ketterdam have dwindled to nothing more than a trunk and a bag, slung across your body from your shoulder.

"I'll say," you start, cracking the silence that has settled over the two of you for too long. "I thought this city would bind me here for the rest of my life."

You chuckle, not that you find your freedom particularly funny. The endless possibilities. Places to go, people to meet, countles versions of yourself you can be. Something more than a barrel rat. You can't help but chuckle at how absurd it all feels. How nearly incomprehensible it is that you're boarding a ship soon, headed off to Shu Han.

"I hoped it would," Kaz says, never mincing his words as usual. Casually cruel to a fault. "Everyone else is quite hopeless with bookkeeping. You are the expert."

You nudge his shoulder with yours slightly, rolling your eyes. You let the implications of everyone go—that everyone includes a certain Fjerdan, for whom you've held a funeral for just weeks prior.

"We each have our strengths," you answer, grip unconsciously tightening on the railing. You feel the cold rusty metal burn against your palms. You try to keep your tone light. The two of you carry enough grief to drown this entire island if you start going down that path. Not exactly what you have in mind for a send off.

You brave a look at Kaz Breaker, finding him in his usual dark overcoat and dark shirt and dark trousers. For a moment, it'll be so easy, you naively think. The words are caught on your throat, punching themselves down before it even reaches your mouth. His dark eyes flit over to you and you immediately swallow.

Love is a foreign concept. To you, whose only family left you for dead when you were barely a teenager. To him, who will forever remember the slick, slimy cold skin of Jordie brushing against his. Your bravery has died as swiftly as it rose. Words of affection staining your tongue but never leaving your lips.

"Have you remembered everything? Shu Han is quite the trip." He nods towards your trunk. "You haven't packed too lightly?"

You raise an eyebrow at him. "Since when have you become so fussy?"

"Since forever, although I prefer the word 'thorough.'"

"What are you, my mother?"

He exhaled sharply, his lips curving into an uncharacteristic amused smile. "Neither you nor I are qualified in talking about parental figures."

You blink at him, mouth agape. "Kaz!"

He shrugs, leaning on his cane. Dark eyes start to drift behind you where a ship has already started boarding. A line of passengers form, many amongst them are talking in Shu, while others Kerch. Kaz points his chin towards the ship, "I believe that is you."

You take your ticket out of your pocket, clutching it in your hand. "I'll be going."

Neither of you move, rooted to your respective spots, staring at each other. Something unsaid hangs in the empty space between you. The tip of your tongue grazes your teeth. Once again, it will be so easy. Just, say it and leave. Bolt as fast as you can to the ship. You will be oceans apart anyway.

The distance may dampen whatever rejection he will hurl your way.

"Best be off," he says. "You might miss your departure."

He clears his throat, looking away. Once again, the ease you've deluded yourself into feeling disappears. There's something tight-wrung in you, fed up of being such an illicit thing.

"I am going," you mumble, lazily hauling your trunk. "Take care, Kaz."

Your stomach drops as you turn around, stepping uncertainly towards the large passenger ship. You turn around swiftly — too quick even — when Kaz calls your name. Like a blossoming flower, you perk up, looking over your shoulder.

His hand is awkwardly hovering, like he's going to shake your hand—or grab it—but it drops right back to his side. It's uncharacteristic; makes him look more like a boy and less of a ringleader.

"Be back in two moons," he says. "For a visit, if you would like."

You let out a puzzled noise. "Why?"

"Would you... be opposed to it?"

"No!" You flush at your exclamation.

"No?"

You gather yourself before saying, "I'll be here in one, how does that sound?"

"I will see you then," he says. "Remember to write."

You feel a little lighter now, less like you're abandoning your closest friend with whom you've shared priceless adventures with. You will see him again. Soon. You will bear stories of faraway lands to him. They may pale in comparison to your escapades and heists, but after what you've been through, mundanity may be what he needs.

"As if you would let me forget."

[ ]

[sstardustt3]

Johnny Cade never thought he had a real purpose.

He thought he would just end up like his parents or working minimum wage at a job he didn’t like or shady quick jobs to survive. He wasn’t very smart, it took him too long to write, to say what he meant correctly. He didn’t really understand math, took him longer than most to understand the work and it just made him feel stupid. He was scrawny with a light build but he was still underweight, he didn’t care too much for sports either. He a little sense when it came to how to survive in the real world but not enough to make a living.

He’d stop trying In general, he would sometimes sleep in class to make up for lost time at home, most of the time he would just stare at a blank wall silently. Sure sometimes his classmates would be concerned but eventually they started ignoring him too.it was better that way, he didn’t he have anything to contribute anyways he knew one thing for a fact, for absolute certain.

Johnny Cade would be another no named poor kid turned criminal to die and rot.

It seemed his fears came true when he killed that Bob kid. He never liked him from the start, even more so when he beat him within an inch of his life and left him that nasty gash on his cheek. He didn’t feel sorry about killing that soc. He tried to drown his friend, he beat him black and blue and here was so much blood gushing out of his nose you would’ve thought a pipe broke. He didn’t feel sorry about getting his payback.

He felt sorry that he proved himself right, that he had disappointed dally in someway by getting into more trouble than required. He proved himself right that he would amount to nothing but a low life criminal who would be locked up in a prison cell and rot there for the rest of his life or die in agonizing pain.

Was he a fool for wanting more? Hoping that he could be strong like Dallas. Strong and tough like dally. Maybe even help people. He was too hopeful, it was a nice fantasy though. That maybe he could amount to more.

When he was in the church with Ponyboy, he felt bad, guilty. It sunk in that this was his life now, he wasn’t gonna see the pearly gates after he killed that boy, if he ever got caught he even if he didn’t go to jail on the count of self defense he would still have to face his family. He did too much, he wasn’t thinking clearly.

When those kids were trapped in that church he felt like he was responsible for it. He was torn between listening to Dallas and going into that church with Ponyboy. But he knew it was his fault, he had to fix his mess, also it would’ve been irresponsible to let him wander in by himself. So he followed. He when he saved those kids he felt a rush of adrenaline. The smoke, the humidity, the heat, the sounds around him. It lit a fire in him, it made him feel like he actually had a purpose, Like he was worth something, that he was actually good at something.

The adrenaline came crashing down when the curch fell. His back hurt for a few seconds, bolts of pain coursed through under the weight of beams and oak wood and his nervous system screamed and ached in pain as the fire melted his flesh.

In the hospital he was in pain constantly. He couldn’t move, he could barely talk or open his eyes. He was right. he would die in agonizing pain. He thought his tombstone fit him well though.

“Johnny Cade. the boy who died right as he realized he was worth more than he ever imagined, that things didn’t have to suck.”

[iliveinyourceiling65]

SOC incorrect quotes

part 4. Will I ever get bored of making these? Probably not. This time it’s mostly only Inej, Jesper and Kaz.

Inej: Jesper, can I talk to you for a second? Jesper: Yeah, what’s up? Lemme guess. You and Kaz are having problems and you want me to teach you how to kiss? Inej: What? No, stop that. I know how to kiss. I’ve read books.

Inej: In your opinion, what’s the height of stupidity? Kaz: *turning to Jesper* How tall are you?

Inej: I told Kaz his ears flush when they lie. Jesper: Why? Inej: Look. Inej: Hey Kaz! Do you love us? Kaz, covering his ears: No. Jesper:

Inej: Do you ever want to talk about your emotions, Kaz?  Kaz: … No.  Jesper: I do!  Inej: I know, Jesper.  Jesper: I’m sad!  Inej: I know, Jesper.

Jesper: I'm incredibly fast at math. Inej: Alright, what's 30x17? Jesper: 47 Inej: That's not even close. Jesper: But it was fast.

Inej : What's a word thats a mix between 'sad' and 'mad'? Wylan: Disgruntled, miserable, desolated- Jesper: Smad.

Matthias: Violence isn't the answer. Nina: You’re right. Matthias: *sighs in relief* Nina: Violence is the question. Matthias: What? Nina, bolting away: And the answer is yes. Matthias, running after them: NO-

Inej: I love you guys, you're the best thing that's happened to me. Kaz: We're the best thing that's ever happened to you? Inej: Yes! Jesper: I'm starting to feel a little sorry for you.

Jesper: I can explain. Kaz: Can you? Jesper: If you give me thirty seconds to think of a lie.

[sunshinesmebdy]

Moon in Aquarius: Embrace Innovation and Disrupt Your Business Game

Get ready to ditch the ordinary and embrace the eccentric, entrepreneurs! The moon is transitioning into the unconventional realm of Aquarius, bringing a wave of innovative ideas, social consciousness, and a rebellious spirit. As an astrologer and business consultant, I’m here to guide you on harnessing this revolutionary energy to take your business to the next level.

What does the Moon in Aquarius signify?

Imagine a lightning bolt, sparking sudden insights and revolutionary ideas. That’s the essence of this transit. It’s about thinking outside the box, embracing technology, and prioritizing the collective good. Expect a surge of inspiration, a desire for social change, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Tradition takes a backseat to progress, and collaboration becomes key.

How this moon affects your business and finances:

Innovation Explosion: This is the perfect time to brainstorm new ideas, experiment with cutting-edge technology, and disrupt your industry with unique solutions. Embrace the unconventional and don’t be afraid to challenge the norm.

Unleash your inner revolutionary under the Moon in Aquarius! This transit ignites a firestorm of creative thinking, making it the perfect time to brainstorm like never before. Ditch the tried-and-true and embrace the unconventional. Challenge assumptions, explore untrodden paths, and let your imagination run wild. This is the phase to experiment with cutting-edge technologies like AI, blockchain, or virtual reality — anything that can push the boundaries of your industry and offer unique solutions to existing problems. Don’t be afraid to disrupt the norm; under this moon’s influence, revolutionary ideas have the power to not only shake things up but also propel your business to the forefront of innovation. Remember, sometimes the most disruptive solutions come from embracing the strange and unexpected. So, tap into your Aquarian spirit, step outside your comfort zone, and get ready to create something truly groundbreaking!

Community & Collaboration: Aquarius thrives on collaboration. Partner with like-minded individuals, leverage online communities, and build a network that supports your innovative vision. Remember, strength lies in numbers, especially under this transit.

Forget the lone wolf mentality, Aquarius thrives on collaboration! This moon phase is all about the power of “we,” urging you to ditch the solopreneur struggle and embrace the magic of teamwork. Seek out partnerships with individuals who share your innovative spirit and complement your skillset. Attend industry events, join online communities focused on disruptive ideas, and leverage social media to connect with like-minded individuals. Remember, under this transit, synergy reigns supreme. Don’t underestimate the power of a diverse team bouncing off ideas, challenging perspectives, and fueling your creative spark. Collaborations forged during this period have the potential to birth truly groundbreaking concepts, so open your network, share your vision, and watch your innovative ideas flourish with the collective strength of a passionate community behind you. Remember, in the spirit of Aquarius, the whole is always greater than the sum of its parts!

Social Impact: Align your business with a social cause or environmental initiative. Consumers are increasingly drawn to brands with purpose, and this moon phase amplifies that connection. Let your values shine through!

The Moon in Aquarius isn’t just about innovation; it’s about innovation with a conscience! This transit urges you to connect your business to a social cause or environmental initiative that aligns with your values and resonates with your target audience. Remember, consumers are increasingly drawn to brands with purpose, and under this moon’s influence, that connection is even stronger. Whether it’s supporting local communities, promoting sustainability, or advocating for social justice, find a cause that speaks to your core values and weave it into the fabric of your business. Donate a portion of proceeds, volunteer employee time, or highlight your commitment in marketing campaigns. Remember, authenticity is key. This isn’t about token gestures; it’s about integrating your social impact into your business model in a genuine and meaningful way. By harnessing the Aquarian spirit of collective good, you’ll not only contribute to positive change but also build stronger customer loyalty and attract talent who share your values. Remember, when purpose meets profit, everyone wins!

Financial Surprises: Expect unexpected financial inflows or outflows. This isn’t a time for rigid budgeting, but rather for adapting to sudden changes with a flexible approach. Remember, sometimes the best opportunities come disguised as surprises.

Hold onto your wallets, entrepreneurs! The Moon in Aquarius brings a dash of unpredictability to your finances. Expect the unexpected — both in terms of positive windfalls and unforeseen expenses. This isn’t the time to cling to rigid budgets; instead, embrace flexibility and be prepared to adapt to sudden financial shifts. A surprise investment opportunity might arise, or an unexpected cost could land in your lap. Remember, under this moon’s influence, staying agile is key. Don’t panic over fluctuations — view them as potential catalysts for growth. Perhaps that unexpected influx allows you to invest in new technology, while a temporary dip could push you to explore innovative cost-saving measures. Remember, sometimes the best opportunities come disguised as challenges. Keep your eyes open, stay adaptable, and trust that even financial surprises can propel your business forward in exciting new directions. After all, as the saying goes, “fortune favors the bold,” and under this moon’s influence, boldness means embracing the unpredictable with an open mind and a flexible financial plan.

Tips for this Transit:

Embrace Technology: Explore how technology can streamline your operations, reach new audiences, and enhance your products or services. Remember, innovation often lies at the intersection of humans and machines.

Think Collaborative: Don’t go it alone! Collaborate with diverse teams, host brainstorming sessions, and leverage online communities to generate groundbreaking ideas. Remember, synergy breeds innovation.

Give Back to the Community: Align your business with a social cause you care about. This fosters customer loyalty, attracts talent, and creates a positive impact on the world. Remember, purpose fuels profit.

Stay Adaptable: Be prepared for unexpected financial shifts. Embrace flexible budgeting and be open to new opportunities that arise. Remember, agility is key under this unpredictable moon phase.

Remember, the moon moves quickly, so make the most of this transformative transit. By aligning your actions with the Aquarian moon’s energy, you can disrupt your industry, build a loyal community, and create a business that makes a positive impact on the world. As always, consult a professional astrologer for personalized guidance tailored to your unique birth chart and business needs.

[foxdemon-loser]

Okok you can do this as a Drabble/ imagine/wtv m!greaser is mute but is chill with the gang. One time the gang + m!greaser is ganged up by socs. A soc pins mute m!greaser to the wall and barks “anything you wanna say to me, hood?” And then mute m!greaser just goes; “Not to you.” And SOCKS HIM.

what is the gangs reaction?

YESYESYEDYED

You and the gang walked down the street. It was a pretty cold night and most of you were talking. Most. You weren’t obviously because you were mute. Everyone knew that, no one knew why, no one asked why. You were down near Soc territory. Walking down the street you hear a loud car horn go off. Johnny jolts and everyone’s head snaps over to the car. “Damned blue mustang” you hear Dallas mumble under his breath as it pulls up to the end of the street and at least seven Socs jump out. The gangs reactions range from terrified to annoyed, but they keep their cool. You just had to be at the front. One of the Socs circle you, interrogating you relentlessly, the other six monitoring the gang, who know you can take it, but are all on edge still. The Soc gets annoyed from your lack of an answer and slams you into a brick wall, the hit knocking the air out of you.

“Anything you wanna say to me hood?!” the Soc barks, scowling at you. You stare at him with a cold gaze.

“Not to you.”

You say calmly, and slam a fist into his stomach

You and the gang watch as the Socs bolt into the blue mustang, bloody and bruised, the worst you’ve all got is Ponyboy with a black eye, but Sodapop gave them a right smack for that. Now the eyes are on you.

“D-did you talk?” Johnny asks, almost frightened with how sudden it was. Steve is flabbergasted and Darry is stood there, his hands on his hips as he stares at you. The silence is defeating until, without warning Two-Bit grins, slamming his arm around your neck and bringing you close

“That was badass!” Two exclaims, patting your back. Everyone lets out a small chuckle, minus Two-Bit who’s full on laughing his ass off. You all walk on like nothing happened and you didn’t just beat up a bunch of Socs.

You started speaking more now after that.

I loved writing this!

Reqs open!!

[sonic-oc-showdown]

ROUND 1 BRACKET A

Myo belongs to @limon-florcempoalli

Bolt belongs to @addysfandomdump

Find out more about them below!

Myo:

Myo is an ocelot of around 18 years old. They live in an small mobian town in the coast where she is native from, she spends her days taking care of the nature that surrounds their town and guiding tourists thorugh tours around the jungle. They love all about the natural world, plants and animals; Myo will do anything to protect her home and friends. She has a very strong sense of justice, comunity, identity and loyalty. Myo is considered a local hero for their deeds around the district, helping to make things better is her goal and passion. They also have several abilities like great agility, speed and knwoledge about ecology; but her most remarcable is her hydrokinesis, swimming and controling their movement underwater. Because their principal color is blue, Myo is named after the scientific name of the forget-me-not.

Bolt:

Bolt is best described as a nervous wreck. He's extremely anxious, a massive crybaby, and a huge coward. To be fair, it isn't entirely his fault. His almost-roboticization from Eggman Nega has left him quite scarred by the whole ordeal.

Bolt was kidnapped by Eggman Nega to test out his roboticization technology. Bolt was about 90% of the way through the process when out of sheer desperation his latent electricity powers activated and blew up the machine he was kept in. He used the opportunity to escape and has been living on the edge on insanity ever since.

Bolt is exceptionally powerful and incredibly fast. Despite his cowardice he can defeat most of his opponents in battle and can give Sonic a run for his money in the racing department. This is all immediately brought down by the fact that he's a giant loser. A pathetic little meow meow, if you will. He is transgender but has no t-boy swag. Absolutely zero sauce. He can beat the hell of out you if pressed but he will be shaking and crying and shitting himself the entire time while he does it. Sopping wet cat. I hope he loses the first round lmao.

Oh and he's also Blaze's distant cousin but that isn't really relevant in any significant way at all.

[aoibhinnslater04]

SOC x ACOTAR

Chapter 9: The deal’s the deal

Word count:2985

I've also started posting this on ao3

Jesper didn’t know how he was going to react when he saw Rhysand and his gang today. He hadn’t been able to sleep all night, choosing instead to go watch the sunrise on Inej’s favourite roof ledge. She had brought him here before, when it was just Jesper, Inej and Kaz, after a particularly frustrating night of Kaz refusing to tell them anything he had planned for a job, just expecting they would trust him blindly. They had, and it had worked out, but Inej and Jesper had sat up all night, discussing how to tell their boss that he could never do that again without angering him, before watching the sunrise together. 

He didn’t know when he had started seeing Inej like the sunrise, dark and hidden at times, but when she was happy she was radiant, she brightened the whole sky. He really hoped she was ok.

Kaz had known, from the moment he answered the phone, the caller ID saying ‘Inej’, that they held the upper hand over Rhysand. How, Jesper would never understand. Rhysand held their friend’s mind in his hands. She could have been killed many times, especially once he realised she had called them to beg for help. Jesper would never forget the terrified sobs from that call. If there was one thing Inej needed, it was control over her own body, especially after her years under Tante Heleen’s thumb. And it had been taken away from her in a single moment. 

But Kaz had managed to get them to agree to his choice of venue for the parley, as well as allowing Inej to go free for the simple price of agreeing to hear them out. They clearly were desperate, only asking for the dagger Inej had stolen in return. 

So tonight, Kaz, Nina, Wylan, Matthias and Jesper would go to Black Veil Island. Tamar and Tolya, who had just returned with a letter addressed to Inej from Queen Zoya, as well as their captain “Sturmhond”, would be waiting in their ship in Fifth Harbour to hear from the Crows, so if Rhysand decided to kill them or steal their minds, at least they would be aware. But they had brought something else of value also: they had brought the secrets of a technique called ‘mental shielding’, which should protect them from Rhysand.

The game was on.

~~~~~

Cassian watched his brother pace back and forth, his face like thunder and a swirl of shadows swirling around around his legs, like the darkness was trying to soothe him. Kaz Brekker held all the cards and Rhys knew it. The Crows were a bunch of kids, but they were resourceful and knew Ketterdam better than they ever could. If anyone could help get Nyx back, it was likely to be them, but that didn’t mean he had to be happy about it. Cassian was currently on ‘get Rhys to get his shit together’ duty, but if Feyre couldn’t get him to pull himself together (and honestly he didn’t want to know what she tried, cause his imagination could do a lot with what he heard from the next room- no way anyone could beat that), then no one could.

“Rhys,” he said, going for the safe option that likely wouldn’t get him thrown in the river by his balls. But Rhys did not answer.

 “Rhysie poo?” he tried, smirking a little before Rhys actually did whirl to meet his gaze. That smirk fell flat awfully fast. The fire in Rhys’s eyes… shit, Cassian thought the reason Nesta and Rhys didn’t get on was because they were too alike, and this was just more proof of his theory.

He gulped quickly before rushing on. “We need to get going. The Crows are going to be waiting, and you’ve been wallowing long enough.”

“They can wait,” Rhys responded, icily. “They won’t move against us when we have Inej.”

Cassian glanced quickly at the girl who sat calmly on the couch, ignoring them. Rhys hadn’t let her mind go yet, despite it being part of the conditions from the call with Kaz. 

“Don’t you think we should let her go first? Obviously not to go bolting off again, but so she’s aware of what’s going on? They won’t see us as potential allies if we’re keeping their friend under our control. Let’s just go in, with her free, as a gesture of good faith. We can’t afford new enemies if we already have some we don’t know anything about.”

Rhys glared at him, but there was less fire in it, as he sighed and released Inej. She blinked a couple of times, and glanced around, before her entire body stilled as she took in the two winged males before her. Cassian couldn’t be sure she was breathing, if he was being honest.

 She had the stillness of the Fae, but her eyes were human. And they were terrified. 

Rhys took a step back, his wings disappearing, before he gestured to Cassian, a silent not my monkey not my zoo, although Cassian would argue it was very much his zoo, and they were all definitely clowns. They thought this change would be so simple, and everything would be better. It’s just been getting so much harder, and not only for them, he realised, before tucking in his wings and crouching to be less imposing for poor Inej, one of the casualties in their dream. 

She stiffened slightly, but it was like she had completely given up. She wasn’t trying to run, probably because she realised Rhys could just stop her again. She was right, but it broke Cassian’s heart to realise how poorly she viewed his kind hearted brother, and honestly, all of his family. And his heart only cracked more when he realised how they had taken this teenager and broke her trust in herself completely. She wouldn’t be the same person after all this was over, and they all knew it. 

He touched her knee gently, and she flinched slightly but didn’t move. “It’s ok, Inej. We’re gonna meet with your friends now. You’re gonna be home, and Rhys will stay out of your head. Ok?”

Her voice cracked slightly when she answered, as her gaze flicked between him and Rhys. ”Why? What are they giving you in exchange for me?”

Ah, Ketterdam. A place where nothing good came without a catch, clearly. 

Cassian turned to glare at Rhys, who was looming imposingly against the back wall, and he could swear that Rhys was making the room darker on purpose, before turning back to the Wraith. “Nothing, Inej. It’s a show of good faith. We need some help, and we offered you back if they would just hear us out.”

“I’m not some collectible that you can trade back and forth. I’m a person!” she bit back, tears threatening to fall.

Cassian glanced helplessly back, but Rhys already had moved forward and crouched beside him. Inej went deathly still again, but this time he could hear how fast she was breathing. The girl was close to a panic attack before anything really had been said, and he had no idea how to help. She was hardly likely to agree to train with him in this state, right?

But Rhys was answering her now, his tone smooth and gentle, like he was trying to soothe a frightened animal. “You are, Inej. I’m sorry that this went so far. I thought Kaz had taken something from me, and I wanted to take something from him in return, and I thought you would be the most useful to me. And I was right, but I couldn’t understand how you of all people didn’t know where he was. Until you and Az went into that house. And I saw your memories from it. He’s not with your Kaz. He’s with them.”

“Who’s with them?” she whispered, her eyes not moving away from Rhys’s, like if they did, he would attack. 

“My son”, he finally responded. “They took my son.”

~~~~~

Feyre finished tying her braid, then stepped back, regarding herself in the mirror. Her face was drained of colour, and the dark rings under her eyes said plenty about her current sleep habits. Oh, what an impression she would make on the Crows. She jumped as her door swung open, Nesta striding in.

"Oh good, your hair is done. That only leaves the makeup to do."

Feyre shook her head in disbelief. "What do you mean, Nesta? I'm ready, I wasn't planning on wearing makeup."

Nesta grabbed Feyre's shoulders, holding her still as she looked her up and down, something like sympathy in her gaze. "Feyre. You look like shit. You are High Lady of the Night Court, and no matter how little that means here, it means a lot to all of us. You are a leader, and for anyone else to believe it, you need to believe it first." She sat down, patting the piece of bed beside her, before noting Feyre's hesitance, and she sighed. "You're hurting. I know. I miss him too, and we'll bring down hell until Nyx is back. But you need to keep your armour up until we get home. You can scream, and cry, and do whatever will make you feel better then, but for now? Armour up."

Nesta finished Feyre's makeup quickly, and stood up, checking her watch, before informing her they were to leave in ten minutes. She turned to leave, before hesitating. "I love you Feyre." Feyre smiled sadly at her older sister, who still struggled to say those three words aloud. But she was trying. Feyre was trying too. "I love you too."

~~~~~

Nina was wringing her hands in anticipation as the other Crows stood tense beside her. She had the Shadowsinger's blade in her belt, the only weapon other than Inej's knives, which should be returning with her, that were allowed. That being said, Jesper and Wylan had spent all morning hiding some of Wylan's bombs and Jesper's pair of guns, if things went wrong, just in case. It wasn't like the Court of Dreams didn't have their own powers to protect themselves, anyway. Better safe than sorry, after all.

There was no sign of any boat coming, but she had no doubt the Fae could come up with their own impressive entrance, if only to prove how much lesser the Crows were to them. And sure enough, with a sudden shift in the air, there came a group of tall, beautiful people who did not look of this world. Kaz didn't wait for a second before stepping forward, Saints bless him.

"Rhysand", he greeted, somehow looking down on the male who stepped forward, power rippling off of him. "I believe you have someone of mine?"

Inej crept forward from where she was hidden within the crowd, bolting across as soon as she was over an arm's length away, to where Jesper was waiting, who pulled her into a bear hug, before pulling back and looking her up and down.

"She hasn't been harmed, Jesper," came Rhysand's cold, amused voice, the darkness in it sending a chill down Nina's back. Inej shrank behind Jesper at the sound. "Of course, why would I ever think that? You only kidnapped her and kept her under your control for how long, exactly?" Jesper snapped back, his anger only seeming to amuse Rhysand further.

"You've all got mental shields up now", he observed. "How... Quaint. I could break through them without much more than a thought, but the effort is appreciated."

Nina grabbed Inej's hand, and squeezed it tight. She couldn't tell if it was Inej or herself that was trembling. They had been preparing for this meeting since Inej had called them, they had done their research and did everything they could to get their mental shields ready for his inevitable attack, but it was a lot harder to keep it up when they were standing in front of him. He had hundreds of years of experience, they had only been practising for a few days. But they weren't planning on backing down now. Inej had needed them, and this old bastard would not be the end of them yet.

The Fae lady beside him stepped forward, her hands lifted in a peaceful gesture. She was thin, and pale, and had so much pain in her eyes, but the other Fae beside her stepped back, looking at her with so much respect that this could only be their High Lady, Feyre. "We don't intend on breaking through your shields", she said, throwing a glare towards Rhysand. "I'm sure Rhys only meant that as a warning, should you face any other daemati, right, Rhys?"

Rhysand lowered his gaze sheepishly and picked at the shoulder of his dark suit. "Of course, darling." He turns to speak directly to the Crows. "My apologies. Although I would appreciate at least an attempt to keep them up when you’re all screaming ‘old bastard’ towards me. Please?”

Nina glanced uneasily around at the rest of the Crows. Apparently it’s more difficult to keep a mental shield up than they thought. Who knew?

~~~~~

Kaz kept his expression cold as he stared down Rhysand. He could feel the tension in his Crows, and he wasn’t going to let that OLD FAE BASTARD (Coincidentally, said Fae bastard winced at this exact moment) screw with them. The Fae lost every bit of leverage they had when they gave Inej back, and so Kaz would let them say their piece, as he had agreed, but if they didn’t get started soon, he would be taking his Crows and leaving.

Feyre shot a look at Rhysand, and Kaz could almost hear their silent, mental argument, before Feyre turned back towards them with a quick smile. “Thank you for agreeing to hear us out. We-”

“Don’t make that sound so civil,” Kaz interrupted. “You had taken my Wraith hostage, we only agreed to hear you out in order to get her back. Let’s not try to appear like any of us wanted this. You were desperate. Likely because whatever happened in that house left Inej with free will, the free will YOU took away from her. Now I’m guessing there’s more to it than that. Probably you wouldn’t have let her in without an escort, likely your shadowsinger -by the way Nina, he’s probably eager for his dagger back- but something happened in that house. Something which blocked your power over Inej, and probably affected your shadowsinger’s powers too. There is something in that house which you want, something you can’t get to, and you need non-Fae people who aren’t under your power to get it. So that means you have to trust us. My only question is why, in the name of all the Saints, you thought WE would be willing to help you, after everything you’ve done to us.”

Feyre’s mouth had fallen open, and Rhysand had gradually gotten paler with every word. Saints, he loved being underestimated. It made beating high-power people so much more entertaining when they didn’t see it coming. But even though he had a little smirk on his face, he raised his eyebrow in a clear challenge. Feyre coughed slightly to clear her throat, before she hurriedly continued. “We know it mightn’t be…the MOST appealing of jobs. But we can pay well, and…”

“And what makes you think we want your money?” Jesper interrupted. Usually Kaz would stop him here, but he and Jesper had talked on the way over to Black Veil Island, and both agreed that they would rather not accept the job than just roll over at the mere mention of kruge. The damage between both gangs ran too deep, and they wouldn’t make Inej work with them because of greed. “Don’t think just because you’re desperate, and sorry, and whatever, that it makes up for what you did. You took Inej-”

“And they took our son!” “And why would we care about anything to do with your family?”

“We thought YOU had taken him!”

“So taking Inej was your solution?”

“You don’t know what you would do in that situation.” “Sure we do, we’ve done it before. All we did was take Wy’s stepmother, and we gave her cookies, and let her sing, despite how shit it was, and-”

“You clearly don’t know shit about family, and what you should do for them.”

At this Kaz’s cane banged on the ground, and everyone, even the huge Fae, fell silent. He stalked forward between the groups, and turned to the Fae. “We know what we would do for our family. You TOOK part of our family, and we are here, listening to you, because of it. You started this war between us, and you came to regret it. That? It’s not our problem. As far as I’m concerned, you haven’t suffered enough,” he said, his voice as cold as ice. 

Rhysand stepped forward, his face white with rage, and Nina quickly threw her hands up, slowing his heart before he could do anything. The two Illyrians snarled and ran at her, but Matthias blocked their way with a roar of rage as they began to fight. Jesper and Wylan ran forward to grab him when he was knocked to the ground, leaving a crater in his wake. Those Batboys clearly weren’t holding back. Nina growled with anger, not loosening her grip on Rhysand as the bones of the dead began crawling towards them, and they began to move hurriedly backwards yelling at her, but before anything else could happen, Inej stepped forward, and all the Crows turned to look at her. She was shaking, and Kaz reached out towards her without thinking but she raised her voice over all the commotion. 

“Enough!” She looked at Kaz, a plea in her gaze. “Can we talk?”

[addysfandomdump]

You're looking a little tangled up there, Bolt!

Decided to fill out the questionare that’s been going around the @sonic-oc-showdown​​!

Name: Bolt the Cyber Cheetah

Species: Asiatic Cheetah (and also cyborg)

Type: Speed

Alignment: Neutral Good

Home: Sol Empire

The rest under the cut! 👇

✨ - How did you come up with the OC’s name? 

I didn’t! Bolt originally belonged to my partner Zed! He was a recolor/edit of one of those Sonic character bases you find on DeviantArt lol. He originally had, and still has, electricity powers-- he’s also related to Blaze, and 5th grade Zed wanted a B name, hence Bolt! He also tends to “bolt” off a lot, haha.

I’m the one who made him a cheetah, though. Bolt used to be just a regular old cat. But then I thought “hm, y’know for a series about a fast hedgehog, there is the striking lack of the cheetah rival” so I made him a cheetah! An Asiatic cheetah specifically, since Blaze is Indian-coded! The Asiatic cheetah is dying out :( There are only 12 Asiatic cheetahs left in the whole world as of writing this :(( It’s so sad :(((

(A cheetah in Iran. Source: Wikipedia)

🌼 - How old are they? (Or approximate age range) 

Bolt is 18 years old!

🌺 - Do they have any love interest(s)?

Yes! Bolt has a girlfriend named Chilli, who’s a Chocolate Labrador! They met in junior year high school and are T4T ❤ Don’t ask him how he scored, he doesn’t know either.

🍕 - What is their favorite food?

I don’t know! Since he’s so anxious all the time, probably warm and filling foods, like soup! Since he’s 90% robot, though, he doesn’t really need to eat. He’s powered by his own electricity!

💼 - What do they do for a living?

Bolt does a variety of odd jobs to pay rent. He usually works as a living battery for a lot of people, though, restarting grids and charging people’s phones for a dollar.

🎹 - Do they have any hobbies?

Bolt has a lot of hobbies, usually ones that keep him calm. Visiting museums, going on long walks in nature, anything that handles weaving like crocheting or knitting or plush making... he made his jacket himself!

🎯 - What do they do best?

Worry. And cry.

🥊 - What do they love to do? What do they hate to do?

Bolt loves engaging in his hobbies and hanging out with his girlfriend, Chilli :)

Oh boy does he hate a lot of things. Many things stress him out. Watching a scary movie, trying something new, talking to people who aren’t his usual friend group, loud concerts, big crowds, whatever new adventure Blaze inadvertently drags him into this time, etc etc.

❤️ - What is one of your OC’s best memories?

Going to see the stars with his girlfriend for the first time.

✂️ - What is one of your OC’s worst memories?

Getting kidnapped and roboticized, easy. And [SPOILERS FOR THE UNDEVELOPED AND UNRELEASED FANGAME SONIC RUSH: LIGHTNING SPEED].

🧊 - Is their current design the first one?

Nope! Bolt went through sooo many designs. I’m still figuring him out. Every new drawing of him looks different. I feel like I’m getting close, though!

🍀 - What originally inspired the OC?

Zed wanted to make a cool elemental Sonic kitty ala Blaze. Then I basically took him and transformed him completely. At first he was gonna be another cocky Sonic rival, since I’ve always imagined a cheetah rival for Sonic, but then I was like “hmm, he has a lot of those already... not very unique...” and then I remembered @/thehydroxian-art-blog’s Jeff the Imperfect Shadow Android and though “Ah! I shall make him pathetic. And also a robot.” And thus the current version of Bolt was born!

🌂 - What genre do they belong in?

A sci-fi action comedy film, for sure!

💚 - What is your OC’s gender identity and sexuality?

Bolt is a trans man, he/him pronouns, bisexual. That yellow chestplate you see was originally a binder before it got welded into his body by the roboticization machine!

🙌 - How many siblings does your OC have?

None so far! He’s an only child! He does have his cousin, Blaze, though. Which technically makes him royalty. He doesn’t really live like royalty, though... or know that he’s royalty in the first place.

🍎 - What is the OC’s relationship w/their parents like?

They kinda just peaced out after Bolt graduated from high school. They weren’t particularly close with Bolt, and vice versa. They lowkey wanted nothing to do with him...

✏️ - How often do you draw/write about the OC?

A decent amount! A member in a Sonic server I’m in asks all sorts of prompt questions about other people’s OCs and I love answering them! It’s really helped me develop not just Bolt, but my other OCs such as Faye Moreau, Seafoam the Sailfish, Charlotte Webb, Chaos Clown, Ms. Host, Cabinet Man, and even Kryztal!

💎 - Do you ever see yourself killing off the OC?

Nah, not really.

💀 - Does your OC have any phobias?

Yes. Too many to list, though. He’s practically afraid of everything.

🍩 - Who is your OC’s arch-nemesis or rival?

Blaze is kiiinda his rival, but saying that is kind of a stretch. He’s an alright rival to Sonic when the hog visits, though.

🎓 - How long have you had the OC?

I don’t quite remember. A few months at least. Maybe even a year.

This one is something I came up with myself:

💥 - What are your OC’s powers, if they have any?

Bolt can channel and manipulate electricity! He can also shapeshift his mechanical body into various weapons like energy cannons, guns, and blades! His tail stretch out really far, and manifest temporary platforms!

Aaand that should do it! Hoo, that was a lot of questions! It was fun!!!

[deepspacedukat]

Telltale Drip

I know Tolaris is a shitty person. I do. But he is also pretty. So, for this little drabble, we’re gonna all collectively agree that the Tolaris in this fic is a version of himself who didn’t do the creepy mind meld thing to T’Pol. Okay? Okay. So! In the episode he was in, he mentioned that he used to teach literature at the Shirkar Academy, which is a Vulcan university. This is a little drabble of an idea about why he really left, beyond all that “more to life than logic” reasoning that he gave.

Day 17: Precome

SoC prompt list here. SoC Masterlist here. Cross-posted to AO3 here.

~*~

Tolaris (ST:ENT) x Vulcan!Reader

[A/N: This is smut, so 18+ ONLY, MINORS DNI!!!]

Warnings: Teacher/student fantasy, sexual fantasy, one-sided attraction, masturbation, the heart and lok want what they can’t have, copious amounts of precome.

~*~

She was one of his most accomplished students. With two degrees to her name prior to enrolling in his literature class, Tolaris knew she was something special. It was illogical to dwell on her beauty since she did not attend his lectures for the purpose of pleasing others with her appearance, but he couldn’t help it.

Demure and proper yet opinionated, she’d challenged one of his assertions on the very first day of class, and Tolaris had to admit that she defended her position admirably. She would have a distinguished career and make many leaps forward in her research, he could tell. There were even rumors of the Vulcan Science Academy inviting her to join.

Her betrothed was indeed a fortunate man. They’d met on campus once when she needed to discuss some scheduling detail, and Tolaris wished nothing more than to take his place. In the recesses of the literature professor’s mind, he harbored a sort of fantasy - a daydream in which he challenged her betrothed and won her through the ritual combat. The thought of proving himself to her by killing the unworthy oaf to whom her parents had promised her sent a bolt of satisfaction through him.

He was very aware that by indulging such thoughts he was allowing his emotions to control the direction his mind took, but was there not more to life than duty and logic? Was there no room for the passion which he desired to shower upon her? Given the opportunity to do so, he would happily show her what a devoted mate could do for her.

As it was, he always made sure to give her his full attention when she spoke or asked a question - an extra hint of focus spiraled through his irises as his eyes focused on her, much like they had today. She had requested clarification about a thematic variation he’d discussed, and he had given her the most thorough answer he could possibly muster.

His heart had thrummed rapidly in his side at her gentle, murmured gratitude.

“Lesek, osu.” He’d managed a nod of acknowledgment, but he was forced to stand behind his desk as he continued his lecture. Tolaris had no choice. Until he could control his body’s reaction to her, he needed to hide the evidence of his arousal. He would have suspected that his pon farr was approaching had it not been for her repeated ability to draw such inappropriate reactions from him.

As soon as the lecture had ended and all the students had filed out, Tolaris went into his office and activated the appropriate privacy precautions. This was a weakness, but he needed release. He unwrapped his robes enough to get at the trousers and tunic he wore beneath, only to find a large damp spot over the bulging fabric.

His pre-ejaculate had always been rather prolific, so, truly, he should not have been surprised that his clothing had already been soiled. Thinking ahead, he carefully removed his outer robes and draped them over a chair to the side. Sitting behind his desk and removing his damp, leaking lok from the confines of his clothing, Tolaris moaned quietly at the visible evidence of what she did to him simply by existing.

He almost hoped that his pon farr had been knocked out of its cycle simply so that he could let out a little of the emotion that he’d been bottling up since this term started. This was beginning to become too much for him.

How shameful was he that he would feel the need to rut into his hand in broad daylight in his office? Anyone could catch him. Tolaris would be thrown out in disgrace, and a position at the Shirkar Academy was too good of an opportunity to be wasted.

...Or was it? Would it even be wasted if he allowed himself time to explore these persistent, building feelings? Surely such an endeavor would be dangerous. Most others who had attempted to do so ended up reverting to their primal natures - they became savage beasts so intent upon allowing passion to control their minds that they were practically feral.

A shiver ran up Tolaris’s spine when he allowed himself to consider what it might be like to allow himself to succumb to such urges. The hunger that he felt stirring beneath his normally calm surface would be displayed proudly and prominently on his face.

Would she like him better that way? Would it give her pleasure to see how desperate and lustful she rendered him with a simple glance? Oh, he would strip naked and crawl to her, if such an action pleased her!

His hips jutted upwards, forcing his lok through his palm’s tight grip at an even more rapid pace than before. Precome dripped over his fingers and down his wrist, dampening the sleeve of his tunic in a trail of damning desire. He would need to remain cautious when walking home this evening lest he unknowingly allow others to view the evidence of his momentary weakness.

His pleasure built more rapidly than he was expecting, and just when he had begun imagining what it would be like to mate with the object of his desire while in the throes of such savagery, the taut, delicate string of his arousal snapped throwing him into the strongest orgasm he’d had since his last Burning. With his mouth open in a silent shout, Tolaris covered the head of his lok with his other hand and caught his cum in his palm before he could make too big of a mess.

While he caught his breath, he laid his head back against his chair, trying to control his emotions once more. Perhaps it was time that he consider looking for others who were having the same difficulty that he was. Perhaps if he sought out the V’tosh ka’tur he could make a more informed decision about his future...and his options.

For now, though, he needed to clean himself up and head home to meditate.

~*~*~

Vulcan Words:

lesek = thank you

osu = sir

V’tosh ka’tur = Vulcans without logic

~*~

Taglist:

@akamitrani @android-boyfriends @attention-bajoranworkers @bigblissandlove1 @darkmattervibes @emilie786 @horta-in-charge @live-logs-and-proper @slutty-slutty-vulcans @starrynightgardens @toebeans-mcgee

[totallyseiso]

do you have any advice for someone trying to get into the first stalker game?

I haven't played the first one (SoC) in many years, so I don't have a lot of advice for that one specifically. But I do have some advice that works for all the games:

Do not forget that it's survival horror

Just because you have a gun doesn't mean you should use it. If you're unsure about whether you'll survive fighting a certain mutant, try to find a way around it without fighting. Better to save your ammo and your life rather than get into a pointless fight.

Repair equipment every time you enter a safe zone. You do not want your guns jamming during a firefight.

Don't just go for the most expensive gear you can afford right away. A fancy NATO rifle is worthless if you can't reliably find ammo for it, and heavy armour won't do you any good if repair costs will bankrupt you (that's why I rarely use exoskeleton suits) use what fits your current situation.

Pay attention to what you're carrying and if that suits what you'll be doing. Don't bring 10kgs of medical supplies and 30kgs of ammo if you're going out for a single job and then returning to base. Take a bit more than what you think you'll need, but don't overdo it. You don't want to be over your carrying capacity while sprinting to shelter to avoid an emission.

Also, if there's anomalies in front of you, switch to your bolts and start throwing. Don't just try to rush through. Going slowly through an anomaly field is always the best option.

Now, two things I do remember about SoC specifically is that 1) anomalies just poop out artefacts all the time, but getting to them is dangerous. However: after an emission, the anomalies move positions. So if you see a bunch of artefacts in an anomaly field that looks too tough to navigate, just come back after a few emissions have happened, and it should hopefully clear up a bit. This doesn't work for the other two games because anomalies in those don't just crap out artefacts. You have to actually enter the anomaly field with a detector to make it happen.

2) In SoC, bloodsuckers can be killed while invisible, and their eyes glow while invisible. So if a bloodsucker is fighting you, don't panic, just spin and look for the eyes and then aim there. Should drop it quickly. Bloodsuckers are much harder in the other two games