#Optimization Toolbox

[modmad]

I need you all to appreciate that, due to a year of this shit, Engineer now has expertise in perception AND a level in rogue and yes I think this was worth it

an animation based on old discussion regarding engineer asking for volunteers to help him with his reflective magic  

The engineer is @modmad‘s and larry is @yunisverse​‘s

[fairmaiden8]

Inside Google's SEO Toolbox: The Essential Tools You Need to Know About

Welcome to the world of SEO tools! Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a crucial aspect of digital marketing that helps businesses improve their online visibility, attract more traffic and generate leads. In this blog post, we will explore some of the essential SEO tools you need to know about to boost your website’s performance on search engines like Google. Introduction to SEO Tools: Before…

[nenelonomh]

improving your memory

having a good memory is like having a personal archive of valuable information at your fingertips. it enhances efficiency by allowing you to recall facts, dates, and tasks quickly, making daily life and work more productive.

good memory also aids in learning, helping you retain knowledge and skills, which makes acquiring new information easier. it plays a crucial role in problem-solving by enabling you to draw from past experiences to tackle current issues.

additionally, remembering details about people—such as their names, interests, and past conversations—helps build and maintain strong relationships. keeping your memory sharp also has health benefits, as studies have shown it can delay cognitive decline and reduce the risk of conditions like dementia.

essentially, a good memory is a mental toolbox that equips you to handle life's challenges more effectively and can even help you stay organized and on top of things. improving your memory can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes and mental exercises.

below are some strategies:

stay mentally active: keeping your brain engaged is crucial for maintaining cognitive function. activities like solving puzzles, reading books, playing chess, or even learning a new language or musical instrument can create new neural pathways and enhance mental agility. continuous learning and challenging your mind can prevent cognitive decline and improve overall brain function.

get enough sleep: during sleep, your brain processes and consolidates information from the day. deep sleep stages, particularly REM sleep, are essential for memory consolidation. aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure your brain gets the rest it needs to function optimally. establishing a regular sleep routine and creating a restful sleep environment can also improve sleep quality.

eat a balanced diet: nutrition plays a significant role in brain health. foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, and those high in healthy fats, like nuts and avocados, can protect the brain from oxidative stress. omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are particularly beneficial for brain function. vitamins, especially vitamin E and B vitamins, are essential for maintaining cognitive health. staying hydrated is also important, as dehydration can affect cognitive abilities.

exercise regularly: physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can enhance memory and cognitive function. regular exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells and improves the connections between them. activities such as aerobic exercises, strength training, and even yoga can be beneficial. aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to keep your brain healthy.

practice mindfulness and meditation: these techniques can help reduce stress, which is known to negatively impact memory. mindfulness and meditation encourage relaxation and focus, allowing your brain to function more efficiently. regular practice can increase grey matter in the brain, which is associated with improved memory and learning. incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can help you stay present and retain information better.

stay organized: keeping your environment and tasks organized can significantly improve your ability to remember things. using tools like calendars, to-do lists, and notes can help you manage your time and responsibilities more effectively. breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps and setting reminders for important deadlines can also enhance your ability to remember and complete tasks.

limit sugar intake: high sugar consumption has been linked to cognitive decline and impaired memory function. excessive sugar intake can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells. reducing your sugar intake and opting for healthier alternatives can help protect your brain and improve cognitive function over time.

stay socially active: engaging in social activities and maintaining relationships can stimulate your brain and keep it sharp. social interactions can provide mental stimulation and emotional support, both of which are important for brain health. joining clubs, volunteering, or simply spending time with friends and family can help improve your memory and overall cognitive function.

incorporating these strategies into your daily routine can help keep your brain healthy and improve your memory. consistency is key, so try to make these practices a regular part of your life.

i hope this post was helpful! 🫶nene

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[tainbocuailnge]

You post about AK ops all having a spot has given me a sliver of hope that maybe...Sand Reckoner might be useful to me...someday...somewhere...bc I wanna build him once he's out in global but it's somewhat disheartening when I actually think about using him for anything...

alright let's take a look at what sand reckoner can do. a summoner will always have a place in low operator optimisations btw because they're literally five dudes in one, though I should probably preface this with a disclaimer that I'm not that good with summoners myself and most of my understanding of how to use them is from watching others do it

sand reckoner is notably the first lower rarity summoner with ranged summons, which patches that hole in the subclass and gives him an edge versus flying enemies compared to mayer, scene, and deepcolor. unlike ling and magallan, the amount of summons he can deploy also isn't capped at lower than the amount he can hold, so he can descend with a flock of five funny birds if you want.

his summons are basically just durin without her talent, they deal arts damage, have the same range, and roughly the same stats. arts damage doesn't face any flat reductions, so their low-ish atk won't get thresholded and their damage should be solidly okay. one durin is weak, but five durins piles up. defensively they'll keel over almost immediately so they're not very good as bait

sand reckoner's talent is 20% increased damage against machine enemies, of which there aren't many, but basically all of them are high priority targets, and several of them are also fairly commonly used outside their debut maps precisely because they're familiar dangerous enemies (rhine robots, londinum artillery, vampire cars). it's conditional, but the condition isn't all that rare and 20% is such a big number he's going to be doing very noticeable damage in these situations. arknights toolbox lets you filter enemies by traits like this

s2 has special targeting priority (good) and slow (good) and will give him a new summon (good) and lasts 20 seconds with a 40 sp cost for a clean 50% uptime (preddy good). it's a slower cycle than scene's s2 but also doesn't have the major drawback scene has, which feels like a fair exchange.

as you can see on the list of mechanical enemies most of them are heavy, and a lot of them are also fast, so this skill is very effective at countering them. being able to single out and separate priority targets is very useful, and usually the heavier the enemy the more dangerous, so even without the talent damage this skill can still see a lot of supportive use. since it's the summons doing the slowing he can separate elites from trash in multiple places on the map with this, which can make him a better pick than just a regular decel binder.

the summon attack interval is 1.6 seconds (down to 1.48s with lv3 module), so optimal sand reckoner use would probably want to stagger the summons' attacks somehow to make sure there is no downtime in the slow.

I'll be honest his s1 looks kinda shit by comparison. 10 seconds of increased aspd on a 30s cooldown without the ability to generate more summons is very unlikely to see much use over his s2. it's only a 10 second startup too though, so I can see it having use in fast and short maps where you wouldn't be using enough birds to have to regenerate them anyway, or maps without any ranged enemies that could threaten the birds. +60 aspd on multiple units also goes along way for hitcount mechanics

his module is the one that makes the first summon not take deployment slots which is just incredibly convenient and literally makes it easier to find room for him on your team. I think the talent upgrade from higher levels isn't that great, it makes the slow on s2 a little more consistent but the number is so small that I personally wouldn't level it beyond stage 1 even if I intended to use him a bunch unless i fell in love with his character and wanted to show favoritism

[thepersonalwords]

Social orientation can be used to your advantage to make a great first impression; however, it can also backfire when we violate the boundaries of someone else’s personal space. Awareness of space, orientation, and proximity is a powerful tool for your relationship toolbox.

Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact

[morgan-va]

Chapter 16: Oil and Optimism (Serial Designation V x Reader)

Masterlist

Balancing precariously on the top rung of a ladder, you twist a fresh bulb into the ceiling fixture, the dull flicker of the dying light replaced by a clean, white glow. You step down a rung, shifting your weight as you pull another bulb from the box resting on the desk below. The mundane rhythm of work keeps your thoughts tethered, a temporary reprieve from the strange undercurrent of unease that's been growing steadily in your mind.

The classroom is eerily silent, the empty desks and chairs giving the room a ghostly atmosphere. You reach up again, fixing your focus on the fixture to avoid getting lost in the labyrinth of your own head.

The sudden, unmistakable sound of the door slamming open almost sends you toppling off the ladder. A loud, familiar voice cuts through the air like a knife.

“Yo, Techy, you die up there or something?”

Your grip tightens on the ladder as you glance down, your pulse quickening. There, leaning casually against the doorframe, is Uzi. Her arms are crossed, her ever-present scowl softened by a flicker of mischief in her eyes.

“Uzi!” you blurt, catching yourself just in time. “You trying to get me killed or what?”

She snickers, stepping into the room and giving the ladder a dubious glance. “Bite me,” she says, rolling her eyes. “You’re the one wobbling around like a baby deer.”

You sigh, carefully replacing another bulb. “What are you doing here? Don’t tell me you’re joining the Maintenance Team now.”

“Nah, just checking in on my favorite ladder jockey.” She smirks, pulling out a chair and spinning it backward before sitting down, chin propped on her arms. “Guess you haven’t electrocuted yourself yet. Color me impressed.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” you mutter, stepping down to grab another bulb. “Let me guess, you’re bored?”

“Painfully. Everyone’s too busy pretending to care about bunker duties. Thought I’d annoy you instead.”

You chuckle despite yourself. “Mission accomplished. So, what’s new in Uzi’s world of high-tech carnage?”

She shrugs, glancing around the room. “Eh, nothing exciting. Just tinkering with a few… projects. By the way, if anyone asks about that hole in the wall from yesterday—”

“Didn’t see anything, don’t know anything,” you interrupt, giving her a knowing look.

“Good answer.” She grins, leaning back. “You’re starting to get the hang of this whole bunker politics thing.”

As you finish installing the last bulb, you feel her gaze on you. It's not uncomfortable, just… expectant, like she’s waiting for you to say something. You step down, dusting your hands off.

“So, what brings you to this fine establishment of higher learning? You don’t strike me as the type to come to class when you aren’t forced by Khan.” you ask, gesturing to the empty classroom.

“Thought I’d see what all the hype for after-school clubs is about,” she says dryly. “This is where Dad says we’re raising the next generation of drone geniuses, right? Looks like a bunch of empty chairs to me.”

You chuckle, packing up your tools. “You’re not wrong. I think the hype died about the same time the fluorescent lights did.”

Her expression softens, almost imperceptibly. “You okay?”

You pause, caught off guard. “Yeah. Why wouldn’t I be?”

She shrugs, standing up and brushing imaginary dust off her sleeves. “Dunno. You look… I don’t know, tired or something.”

You give her a small smile. “Just a long day.”

“You’re a horrible liar if you say that’s all it is,” she retorts, but there’s no bite in her voice this time.

“Thanks for the concern, I guess, but really I’m fine” you reply, letting out a light laugh as you grab your toolbox.

Uzi narrows her eyes, leaning slightly closer. “Hey, can you do me a favor?” she asks casually, though the tone suggests something more devious.

You step down from the ladder, toolbox in hand, and glance at her. “What kind of favor?”

She crosses her arms, glancing toward the door as if to make sure no one’s around. “I need something from my dad, but I don’t want to draw suspicion or anything. And, well… I have no idea where he keeps it.”

You blink at her, deadpan. “Let me guess. You’re looking for his door master key?”

Uzi’s jaw drops slightly, her cheeks puffing out in frustration. “How did you—? I didn’t even—”

“Please.” You smirk, crossing your arms. “You’re predictable once you get to know you.”

Her expression hardens, and she jabs a finger in your direction. “Bite me!”

You laugh, genuinely amused as you tuck the tools back into your box. “Oh, don’t worry, Uzi. That’s why I like you. Anyway, yeah, I know exactly where he keeps it.”

Her glare softens into something more inquisitive. “Okay, spill. Where’s he hiding it?”

You shrug, feigning indifference. “What’s in it for me?”

She groans, rubbing her temples dramatically. “You’re seriously asking for payment now? After all those times I didn’t blow you up?”

“Tempting offer,” you say with a grin. “But I’m curious. Why do you want the master key? What’s this for?”

Uzi waves you off, her tone nonchalant but evasive. “Nothing major. Just… a project.”

“Uh-huh,” you reply, unconvinced. “Well, if you must know, your dad keeps it in his bedroom. Big surprise, right? Along with the rest of his, uh, door memorabilia.”

Uzi tilts her head, looking both intrigued and exasperated. “You’re joking.”

“Nope,” you say, popping the ‘p’ for emphasis. “It’s a little shrine to his one true love—door technology. Pretty sure you’ll find the key in there somewhere.”

She lets out a breath, shaking her head. “Okay, first, that’s embarrassing for me. Second, thanks, I guess. And third—if you tell anyone about this, I’ll make sure you regret it.”

“Noted,” you say, mock-saluting her. “Good luck with… whatever this project is.”

As she turns to leave, she stops for a moment and glances over her shoulder. “Seriously though… thanks. Even if you’re an annoying know-it-all.”

“Anytime, Uzi. Anytime.”

She rolls her eyes but doesn’t say anything else, vanishing out the door as quickly as she entered. You shake your head with a chuckle, wondering what sort of chaos she’s about to stir up this time.

.

.

As you settle into your usual spot for lunch, tucked away from the noise of the bunker’s bustling common areas, the solitude is a welcome reprieve. With a sigh, you take a sip from your cup of oil, the smooth texture and faint tang oddly comforting. For a moment, the world feels calm.

But, of course, peace doesn’t last long here.

“Привет. (Hello)”

The sudden voice makes you glance up mid-sip. Standing a few feet away, her expression unreadable as always, is Doll. Her piercing eyes seem to scan you, though her face remains impassive.

You set the cup down slowly, swallowing. “Oh, hey, Doll. Didn’t see you there.”

She doesn’t respond right away, her head tilting slightly as if she’s assessing you. Finally, she speaks again. “Ты другой.” (You are different.)

Her words hang in the air, vague and unsettling.

“Different?” you echo, frowning. “Different how?”

Doll takes a slow, deliberate step closer, her gaze unwavering. “Ты не такой, как они.” (You’re not like them.)

You lean back slightly, confused. “Okay… but could you be a little more specific? I’m kind of running on fumes here.”

Her eyes narrow slightly, and for a moment, it feels like she’s looking through you rather than at you. She finally sits across from you, still silent as her presence weighs on the moment.

“Look, I don’t know what you’re getting at,” you say, trying to ease the tension. “But I’m just... me. Same as I’ve always been.”

“Нет,” (No,) she replies, voice quiet but firm. “Тебе это известно. Внутри.” (You know it. Inside.)

Her words stir something, a faint unease you’ve tried to push down for months. That phantom pain in your chest, the fragmented whispers in the quiet of your mind—it all comes rushing back for a moment.

You force a chuckle, trying to shake the feeling. “Maybe I’m different because I don’t sit around playing cards with Khan and the WDF, well.. most of the time. That’s gotta count for something, right?”

Doll doesn’t laugh, but there’s the faintest twitch of her lips. She stands without another word, as abruptly as she arrived.

“Подумай об этом.” (Think about it,) she says before turning and walking away, her silhouette blending into the crowded corridor.

You sit there, staring after her, your appetite suddenly gone. Different. The word sticks with you, an itch you can’t quite scratch.

With a sigh, you down the rest of your oil in one gulp and try to focus on your next task, hoping to bury the nagging thoughts that have been stirred to life once again.

After finishing your cup of oil and shaking off Doll’s cryptic words, you head out of the lunchroom, toolbox in hand. You’ve got a meeting scheduled with Khan and the Worker Defense Force—something about faulty mechanisms on a few bunker doors. Not exactly thrilling, but it’s all in a day’s work.

The walk to the WDF office is short, the chatter of drones in the halls fading into the background as you focus on the task ahead. By the time you step through the door, the familiar, chaotic energy of the group greets you like a slap to the face.

Khan is at the head of the room, as usual, leaning back in a chair with a self-satisfied grin. Around him, the other WDF members are seated, though none of them seem particularly focused. A stack of cards is suspiciously visible in the middle of the table, and a bag of chips lies half-spilled across the surface.

“Ah, our favorite maintenance drone!” Khan calls out, spreading his arms dramatically as you enter. “You’re here to save the day yet again, eh?”

You can’t help but smirk. “I’m here to keep the place from collapsing on you. Big difference.”

Khan laughs boisterously, slapping the table for effect. “Semantics! Anyway, we’ve got a couple of doors jamming on Deck C. Not great for bunker morale when folks can’t even get to the good vending machines, you know?”

“Right, vending machine access is priority one,” you deadpan, setting your toolbox on the table.

“Exactly! See, you get it.” Khan flashes a grin before gesturing toward the room’s projector screen, which remains resolutely blank.

One of the WDF drones, slouched in a chair, pipes up. “Also, uh, the main storage bay door is stuck halfway open. It’s been like that for three days.”

“Three days?” you echo, incredulous.

“Yeah, but we, uh, put a cone in front of it,” another drone adds, as if that solves the issue.

You pinch the bridge of your nose. “Cones aren’t door repairs, you know that, right?”

Khan waves a hand dismissively. “Details, details. Anyway, that’s why you’re here! Deck C first, then the storage bay. Easy stuff for a pro like you.”

You roll your eyes but grab your notes. As ridiculous as this group can be, you know you’ll get the job done—just another day in the bunker.

“Anything else I should know?” you ask, slinging your toolbox back onto your shoulder.

“Yeah,” Khan says, grinning. “If you’re heading down there, grab some chips from the vending machine for me. The jalapeño ones. You know, as a show of gratitude.”

You shake your head, already heading toward the door. “I’ll see what I can do, Khan. Try not to break anything else while I’m gone.”

Khan’s laughter follows you out into the hall. Another day, another repair job.

You make your way to Deck C, navigating the usual maze of hallways with practiced ease. The hum of the bunker’s machinery fills the air, but there’s an unsettling quiet that seems to settle over you as you approach the vending machine hallway. You’re not sure if it’s the anticipation of dealing with another broken mechanism or something else entirely.

When you reach the entrance to the vending area, the problem is immediately apparent. The door is stuck halfway open, just like Khan said. It’s not the most complicated issue, but it’s a pain when the only thing standing between you and a snack is a stubborn door. You reach down to examine the mechanism and notice the faint squeal of grinding metal when you touch it, telling you exactly what needs fixing.

The jamming is likely caused by something in the track—either debris or a misaligned part. You kneel down, pulling out your toolbox, and start to work. There’s a bit of rust around the edges of the door’s sliding track, and you can feel the tension in the mechanism as you pry it open just enough to slide a wrench into place.

You manage to pop the first panel off, revealing the mess inside. As you work, your mind drifts, not to the task at hand, but to the strange conversation with Doll earlier. You replay her words in your head: “You are different.” The words keep echoing in your mind, and you can’t help but wonder what she meant by that. Was it something she noticed in the way you handled your work? Or maybe it was something more personal, like the ongoing strain of trying to keep your sanity intact in this place.

Shaking your head, you push the thoughts aside. You came here to fix doors, not to unravel your mind.

With a few more twists of the wrench, you’ve loosened the mechanism enough to free the door. It slides open with ease now, and you give it a quick test.

"Perfect," you mutter, wiping your hands on your jumpsuit.

You stand up, stretching your back as you take a moment to survey the vending machines. They’re fully stocked—well, most of them are. It’s easy to imagine Khan’s excitement when he’s eyeing those jalapeño chips.

As you gather your tools and start heading back to the exit, the quiet of the hallway suddenly feels too thick, too oppressive. You can’t quite shake the feeling that something’s off. You look around, but it’s just the usual dull walls, metal doors, and flickering overhead lights. Nothing unusual.

Just a typical day.

You push the uneasy feeling down, turning to leave. The job’s done. Now, time to move on to the next.

You make your way to the main storage bay, grumbling to yourself about the WDF's antics. The idea that such a critical door had been left malfunctioning for three days—with only a single cone as a warning—was peak WDF. The cone might as well have a little sticky note reading, "Problem solved!"

When you arrive, the sight is exactly as you expected. The massive storage bay door is jammed halfway open, with the solitary orange cone sitting proudly in front of it like a guard on duty.

You can’t help but scoff. “Unbelievable,” you mutter, shaking your head. The cone, predictably, has a comically handwritten label taped to it that reads: CAUTION: DOOR STUCK.

“Yeah, that’ll stop someone,” you add dryly, kicking the cone lightly out of your way as you approach the problem.

The door, which is supposed to slide effortlessly on its heavy-duty tracks, is caught mid-motion, revealing just enough space for someone to crawl through if they dared. It’s probably caused some delays for deliveries and restocking, not to mention the obvious safety hazard. Yet somehow, no one in the WDF had thought it was urgent enough to fix themselves. Typical.

Setting your toolbox down, you step closer and begin inspecting the tracks and the motor above the doorframe. The control panel blinks in a way that immediately spells trouble. A quick diagnostic confirms your suspicion: the sensor alignment is completely out of sync.

“Of course,” you mutter. “Can’t ever just be something simple, can it?”

Grabbing a screwdriver and a diagnostic tool, you start making adjustments to the sensor module. It’s finicky work, requiring you to get up close and personal with the grime-covered machinery, but you fall into your usual rhythm.

The quiet hum of the machinery fills the space as you tighten screws, recalibrate the sensors, and reset the motor's alignment. You even clear some debris lodged in the upper track that was likely contributing to the problem.

As you work, the absurdity of the lone cone comes back to mind, and you let out a chuckle. “I should’ve left a sticky note: ‘Head Tech was here. Fixed your door. You're welcome.’”

Finally, after a few more adjustments, you step back and press the reset button on the control panel. The door groans loudly as the motor engages, but after a tense moment, it begins to slide open and shut smoothly.

“Victory,” you announce to no one in particular.

You pick up your toolbox and glance down at the cone you’d kicked aside earlier. With a smirk, you grab it and place it neatly to the side, right in view of the next WDF member who comes by.

“Your real MVP,” you say, patting the cone sarcastically before heading off to your next task.

Noticing the time on your watch, you realize it’s getting late. Time always seems to slip away when you’re neck-deep in repairs, but it’s not like you have much to do after hours anyway. With a sigh, you gather your larger tools and start the trek back to the workshop, toolbox clanking softly in rhythm with your footsteps.

Once there, you carefully place the tools back in their respective spots on the pegboard, ensuring everything is neat and ready for tomorrow. Your toolbelt, as always, is hung on the hook by the door—a small but comforting ritual. Stepping back to admire the orderliness of the workshop, you allow yourself a faint smile. At least something in this bunker is reliable.

With that done, you make your way back to your room. Opening the door, you’re greeted by the same spartan interior you’ve grown accustomed to. The small couch in the corner, the desk piled with spare parts and unfinished gadgets, and the bed you’ve never bothered to personalize. It’s a far cry from cozy, but it’s yours.

You hang your jacket on the back of the chair and plop down on the couch, letting out a long, tired sigh. Your mind starts to wander to the events of the day—Uzi’s antics, Doll’s cryptic comments, the vending machine door, the ridiculous cone guarding the storage bay. It’s a lot to process, but dwelling on it isn’t going to help.

Looking for a distraction, your eyes land on the stack of old VHS tapes sitting next to your portable player. You’d found them in a dusty storage closet a few weeks ago, half-buried under a pile of forgotten junk. The labels on the cases are faded, and most of the handwriting is illegible, but that only adds to the intrigue.

“Why not?” you murmur, grabbing one of the tapes and sliding it into the player.

The screen flickers to life with the familiar grainy quality of old recordings. A logo for some ancient entertainment company appears, followed by the opening credits of what looks like a cheesy sci-fi movie. You chuckle softly at the retro-futuristic designs, the overly dramatic narration, and the comically bad special effects.

As the movie plays, you let yourself relax, sinking into the worn cushions of the couch. It’s nice to escape, even if just for a while, into a world of laser guns, space pirates, and melodramatic plot twists.

Your mind drifts somewhere between the action on the screen and the hum of the bunker around you. Despite the chaos of the day, for a brief moment, everything feels… still.

And for now, that’s enough.

As you settle into the familiar routine of watching the old movie, your eyelids grow heavy. The nonsensical dialogue, the over-the-top explosions, and the absurdly dramatic soundtrack begin to blur together, forming a haze that wraps around your mind like a blanket. You try to focus, but your brain feels too slow to keep up with the bizarre happenings on-screen. The dim light of the TV flickers in the room, casting strange shadows on the walls.

The film starts to distort in ways you can’t quite explain. The voices on the screen warble, the images jump and shift like a broken signal, and it feels less like you're watching a film and more like you're inside it. Everything feels off.

Then, out of nowhere, a symbol flashes on the screen—sharp, angular, and unsettling. It’s not like anything you’ve seen before, a jagged design that feels both familiar and alien at the same time. Your heart skips a beat as a strange unease settles in your chest. The symbol pulses on the screen, growing larger with every flash, as if it’s trying to pull you in, drag you deeper into its meaning.

A sudden, sharp pain slices through your chest. It’s the same phantom pain you’ve felt before—like something is tearing at you from the inside. Your vision blurs, and the room around you starts to distort, the edges of the walls warping into strange shapes, the air becoming thick and heavy.

You gasp, the pain intensifying, but before you can react, everything fades to black.

.

You sit up, disoriented and groggy, your body feeling strange, like you've been jolted awake from a deep sleep. But the sense of unease is still there, gnawing at the edges of your mind. You’re no longer on the couch, and as you try to gather your bearings, you realize—this isn’t your room.

Instead, you're standing in a desolate, darkened place. The floor beneath you is cracked and uneven, stretching out into an endless abyss. Shadows twist around you, forming shapes that almost seem to move on their own. It’s cold—no, not just cold—empty.

A low hum vibrates through the ground beneath you. The walls are lined with rusted, mechanical structures, like broken machines abandoned long ago. This place—it feels like a dream, a nightmare, but not one you can wake up from.

And then you hear it. That same, robotic voice again. It echoes around you, disembodied, too distorted to understand. The words blur together into something indecipherable, but the tone—the tone is wrong. It’s off.

Your chest tightens with that phantom pain once again, almost like it’s pulling you in, like it’s part of the air, part of the environment here. You can’t escape it, not even if you wanted to.

The voice grows louder, more insistent, and the symbol from the TV flashes again in your mind’s eye—sharp, jagged, familiar—and it pulls at you, drawing you toward it, deeper into the nightmare.

You try to scream, but no sound comes out. All you can do is stand there, helpless, as the world around you shifts and warps even further.

The shadows around you seem to thicken, pulling in closer like a living fog. The low hum grows louder, resonating through your bones as the air seems to buzz with tension. You feel paralyzed, your breath caught in your throat, as a figure emerges from the darkness.

At first, it’s hard to make out the details. The figure’s frame is humanoid, but something about it feels wrong, unsettling. As it steps closer, the dim, flickering light reveals a worker drone. She’s dressed in a pristine maid’s uniform, the lace and frills at odds with the ominous atmosphere surrounding her. Her movements are slow, deliberate, as if she’s completely aware of your presence and savoring every step.

You try to call out, but the words stick in your throat, trapped under the weight of the phantom pain still clawing at your chest. The drone stops a few feet away, tilting her head with an almost childlike curiosity. Her screen flickers, glitching for a moment, before displaying that same jagged, alien symbol that had flashed on the TV.

The whispers in your head, those endless, incomprehensible voices that had haunted you for months, suddenly stop. The silence is deafening, and for a moment, you think it might be over. But then, the drone’s screen flashes again, and a voice—her voice—cuts through the stillness.

“Your time has almost come,” she says, her tone eerily soft, almost gentle, yet dripping with something darker beneath.

Her screen flashes again, and the symbol pulses in time with the words, as if emphasizing their weight.

You manage to force out a shaky, “Who—who are you?”

The drone doesn’t respond right away. Instead, she smiles, a strange, unsettling expression that doesn’t quite reach her glowing eyes. Her body twitches slightly, as if something inside her is struggling for control.

“I’ve been… waiting,” she says, her voice layered with static, the edges of her words fraying into distortion. “You’re so close now. So very close.”

You step back instinctively, your pulse racing as you feel the air around you grow heavier. “What—what do you mean? Close to what?”

The drone takes another step forward, and her head tilts again, almost mockingly. “You’ll see,” she whispers, her tone dropping to something that feels like a mix between a promise and a threat.

And then, without warning, the world around you begins to crack apart. The ground beneath you shatters like glass, and the figure of the drone disappears into the void below, her screen flashing one last time with the symbol as her distorted laugh echoes all around you.

You wake with a start, gasping for air, back on the couch in your room. The TV is off, the VHS tape ejected, sitting innocently on the floor.

But the phantom pain in your chest is still there, lingering like a scar.

You glance at the clock on the wall, its neon digits glowing faintly in the dim room: 3:00 AM. The stillness of the hour wraps around you, suffocating and heavy. The remnants of the nightmare cling to your thoughts like cobwebs, and the confined space of your room suddenly feels unbearable.

Grabbing your jacket, you step out into the hallway. The cold, metallic walls stretch endlessly before you, the faint hum of the bunker’s systems your only company. You try to focus on the rhythmic sound of your footsteps, anything to drown out the phantom pain still echoing in your chest.

As you turn a corner, you stop in your tracks. There, not far ahead, stands Uzi, her silhouette unmistakable. She’s clutching her railgun in one hand, the sleek weapon gleaming faintly in the low light. In her other hand, she holds a floppy disk, the words “DOOR MASTER KEY” scribbled on it in bold, messy handwriting.

For a moment, the two of you just stare at each other.

“…Should I even ask?” you say, your voice breaking the silence.

Uzi jumps slightly, clearly not expecting anyone to be wandering around at this hour. She quickly tries to act casual, stuffing the floppy disk behind her back. “Oh. Uh. Hey,” she stammers, her tone awkward but defensive. “What are you doing up?”

“Couldn’t sleep,” you reply simply, glancing at the floppy disk she’s failing to hide. “What about you? Midnight scheming?”

Her screen narrows into an unimpressed glare. “Bite me,” she snaps, holding the disk up as if daring you to ask more questions. “It’s called strategy, okay? Not that you’d get it.”

You raise your hands in mock surrender, fighting back a smirk. “Fair enough. I didn’t see anything, I swear.”

“Good,” she huffs, stepping around you with a purposeful stride. “You’d better not rat me out, or I swear—”

“Relax,” you cut her off, chuckling softly. “I’m not about to ruin your master plan. You do… whatever it is you’re doing. Just don’t blow anything up, okay?”

She glances back, her screen narrowing again in mock suspicion. “No promises,” she says with a smirk before continuing down the hall, railgun slung over her shoulder and floppy disk in hand.

You watch her disappear around the corner, shaking your head with a mix of amusement and exasperation. “Classic Uzi,” you mutter to yourself as you continue walking, trying once again to distract yourself from the lingering unease in your chest.

The hum of the fluorescent lights greets you as you step into the empty lunchroom. It’s quiet—eerily so—save for the faint hum of machinery somewhere in the distance. The tables and chairs are neatly arranged, a stark contrast to the cluttered chaos of the workshop or the rest of the bunker’s corridors.

You make your way to the small kitchenette, your footsteps echoing faintly. Grabbing a clean mug, you pour yourself a cup of hot oil from the dispenser, the rich, familiar scent filling the air. The warmth of the cup seeps into your hands as you take it to your usual spot near the corner, away from the center of the room.

Sitting down, you lean back in the chair and let out a long sigh. For a few moments, you just sit there, staring into the swirling surface of the oil. The nightmare still lingers in your mind, vivid and unsettling. The drone’s distorted face, that unsettling smile, and her chilling words—all of it feels burned into your thoughts.

"Your time has almost come."

You shake your head, taking a sip of the oil. The warmth helps, but not by much. The pain in your chest has mostly subsided, but the memory of it feels more real than you’d like to admit. Why now? Why after all these months of pushing it to the back of your mind did it feel so immediate, so present?

The symbols, the voices, that drone… none of it made sense. Yet it all felt so deliberate, like you were being pulled toward something you couldn’t understand.

You sigh again, resting your head on your hand. “What the hell is wrong with me?” you mutter under your breath, swirling the mug in your hands.

The lunchroom remains quiet, save for the faint ticking of the clock on the wall. It’s peaceful in its own way, the stillness giving you a moment to gather your thoughts. You don’t know how long you sit there, but the tension in your shoulders begins to ease, your breathing slowing as you focus on the steady rhythm of your heartbeat.

For now, you let yourself be. The questions, the fear, and the confusion can wait. For just a little while longer, you allow yourself this moment of calm.

You sit there for a few minutes longer, savoring the rare, quiet peace. The nightmare still lingers at the edges of your mind, but for the first time in hours, the swirling thoughts seem to quiet. You take another sip of oil, letting the warmth settle into your core.

“Maybe everything’s gonna be okay after all,” you murmur to yourself, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at your lips.

And then, as if the universe itself heard your words and decided to mock you, the lights suddenly shift to an ominous red, bathing the room in a harsh, pulsing glow. A deafening alarm blares through the speakers, echoing throughout the bunker with an urgency that makes your mug rattle on the table.

You freeze, staring at the red-lit walls as the alarm continues to wail.

"...Of course."

[sensualnoiree]

astro notes: balancing elements for optimal well-being

In the intricate tapestry of astrological understanding, the concept of every sign being your tool can be enlightening. It's a realization that within each of us, the celestial alignment at our birth contributes distinct traits and predispositions, yet these elements can sometimes tip out of balance. Much like a well-stocked toolbox, astrology offers an array of therapeutic approaches derived from signs, planets, and elements to restore equilibrium.

Understanding the interplay between elements, signs, and planets forms the foundation of utilizing diverse healing tools aligned with specific astrological influences. Elemental balance is pivotal; an excess or deficiency in any element can manifest in physical or emotional symptoms. For instance, an overabundance of water might contribute to gut issues or melancholy.

Astrologically, elements influence and regulate each other. Fire fuels and controls air, while earth grounds and regulates water. To restore elemental equilibrium within the body, employing opposing or complementary elements becomes crucial. This metaphorical perspective translates into tangible practices: stoking fire when feeling sluggish, airing out excess air when feeling scattered, grounding earth when feeling unmoored, or calming overflowing water when faced with emotional turbulence.

Moreover, delving deeper into zodiac signs unveils their relationships and synergies. Sign pairs situated opposite each other in the birth chart, known as polarities or sister signs, possess complementary energies. Collaborating rather than fluctuating like a seesaw enhances their effectiveness. Aries finds harmony with Libra, Taurus aligns with Scorpio, and so forth.

These sign relationships extend beyond mere symbols; they resonate within the human body. Disruptions in the harmonious functioning of complementary signs can lead to health imbalances. Remedies lie within understanding these connections; employing Scorpio's tools to alleviate Taurus-related issues or tapping into Aries' nutritional suggestions to aid a Libra's blood sugar instability.

The dynamic cosmic movements, such as planets traversing through different signs, exert influences that extend across the astrological spectrum. For instance, if planets in Capricorn affect your Cancer moon, exploring Capricorn's astrological insights might refine your self-care regimen.

A structured approach to employing astrological insights involves asking pertinent questions. Is the remedy hot, cold, wet, or dry? Which signs or planets exhibit these qualities? Which body functions does it target, and which signs or planets govern them? Understanding how remedies resonate with elemental qualities, signs, and planetary influences enhances their efficacy.

In essence, delving into astrological health reveals a wealth of knowledge beyond the conventional. It empowers individuals to utilize diverse astrological tools for holistic well-being. As above, so below—a symphony of cosmic energies orchestrates the dance of life, and within its rhythm lies the key to harmonious existence.

𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘤. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘢 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘶𝘵! 𝘔𝘺 𝘢𝘴𝘬 𝘣𝘰𝘹 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯!

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘺 🤸🏿‍♀️

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[simxess]

Life After Christmas

Life with Duke and Ava after Christmas was starting to feel like a fresh chapter. Despite the tumultuous months behind them, things seemed to be slowly falling into place. Although Duke is not officially back home, he comes over frequently, creating a mix of relief and cautious optimism to their household.

Duke had taken a break from the league, giving him an unexpected but welcome chance to focus on his family. Brandon, for one, couldn’t be happier. The weekend visits had been nice while they lasted, but they never felt like enough. Now, with Duke unofficially home full-time, the two were making up for lost time. Whether it was shooting hoops or building epic pillow forts in the living room, their bond was flourishing in a way Ava hadn’t seen in years.

With Duke and Brandon so wrapped up in their adventures, Ava was finally able to spend more uninterrupted time with baby Khloe. Ms. Nancy, their ever-reliable nanny, was thrilled to take a much-needed vacation, leaving Ava to cherish these moments on her own. It reminded her of the early days—before life got so complicated.

Duke had also surprised Ava by stepping up in ways she didn’t expect. When he noticed a leaky faucet in the kitchen, he didn’t wait for her to call a plumber; he grabbed his toolbox and got to work. When dinner was over, instead of leaving his plate on the table as usual, he rolled up his sleeves and helped with the dishes. Ava couldn’t help but chuckle to herself, realizing she couldn’t remember the last time she’d seen him do that.

The best part, though, was the time Duke and Ava were spending together. They’d started playing board games and going to the arcade like they used to in college.

But it wasn’t all perfect. They hadn’t yet addressed the elephant in the room: Duke’s lingering connection to Ivy. The hurt and mistrust from his past infidelity were still there, a quiet undercurrent beneath their newfound joy. Yet for the first time in a long time, Ava felt hope. They were talking, laughing, rebuilding—not just their relationship but the foundation of their family.

Could this really be it? Was their past finally behind them? Ava wasn’t sure yet but she allowed herself to believe it might be. One day at a time, she thought. One step closer to healing.

[klanced]

you Must speak on what makes keith a barbie. for the people

1. comically large skill set

barbie MUST be highly skilled at an EXPANSIVE number of things. i am of course alluding to the sheer number of careers barbie has had (over 200!!!!). a barbie must be able to somehow solve every problem she encounters by drawing on her staggeringly large toolbox of Things and Stuff. and keith, to me, fits this bill better than lance.

the other day i was joking about how keith is the most guy of all time, and i stand by that. i think keith has worked a surprising number of jobs considering how young he is. i firmly believe keith has a weird amount of skills and trades under his belt, and with them, he can at least brute force his way through any problem he encounters.

i just think keith can do way more things than lance. BUT, and this is important, most of the things he can do are not life-savingly important. keith is not smarter than lance, he just knows things like how to do the heimlich maneuver on dogs, the best way to select a watermelon (organized by variety and season), how to ground an electric fence, etc.

2. simple zest for life

another defining characteristic of barbie is her simple zest for life. this is not to be confused with like........ idk, constant optimism and being an extrovert (although barbie is pretty optimistic). i just think barbie goes through life pretty confident in herself, and it helps her move through the world feeling very unbothered. it's about being satisfied and content.

i think keith operates in a similar way. like he does the things he does because he thinks it's the best way forward, and then he just does it. lance, meanwhile, is bogged down by a lot of anxiety about himself and his place in the world. keith also has a lot of anxiety about his identity, because of how much is completely unknown to him, but he's not afraid of the not knowing. (well, until the galra thing becomes a possibility, then he has a lot of feels about that.) but besides that, keith in the face of a self-crisis is just like "yeah ok whatever. can i go now? i have to go change the oil in my speeder." like he has shit to do, y'know? like who cares. his dog likes to go on walks at specific times in the day, he doesn't have time for this.

also can we be real for a second. if lance went as barbie for halloween he'd prepare like a million different reasons/justifications for why he's wearing this neon pink cowboy vest and bell bottoms. meanwhile keith would roll into the party dressed as cowgirl barbie purely because he saw the movie and liked the outfit enough to remember and wear it. no further thought.

3. serving cunt

look. i'm just going to be frank with you all: i think keith can, has, and will outserve lance any day of the week. like i'm sorry, but unless we all start getting real desperate with our fanon, that's just the plain truth.

you can put lance in a crop top all you want, but keith's p*ssy p*ps s*verely!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[krisp-xyz]

Found your work. You inspired me to take another shot at technical art and graphics programming. Do you recommend any specific resources for getting started and beyond?

Thanks so much! Really glad I could inspire you to do that bc graphics and tech art things are so much fun :D

(Also sorry for the late response. I've been a bit busy and was also thinking about how I wanted to format this)

I'm mostly self taught with a lot of stuff and have done lots of research on a per-project basis, but Acerola and Freya Holmer are two of my favorite channels for learning graphics or technical art things. Shadertoy is also an amazing resource to not only create and view other's shaders, but learn about algorithms and see how people do things!

While I don't have many general resources. I'll steal these resources for graphics programming that Acerola shared in his discord server:

For getting started with graphics engine development: DX11: https://www.rastertek.com/tutdx11s3.html OpenGL: https://learnopengl.com/ DX12: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/direct3d12/directx-12-programming-guide Vulkan: https://vulkan-tutorial.com/

For getting started with shaders: catlikecoding: https://catlikecoding.com/unity/tutorials/rendering/ the book of shaders: https://thebookofshaders.com/ daniel ilett's image effects series: https://danielilett.com/2019-04-24-tut1-intro-smo/

For getting started with compute shaders: Kyle Halladay: http://kylehalladay.com/blog/tutorial/2014/06/27/Compute-Shaders-Are-Nifty.html Ronja: https://www.ronja-tutorials.com/post/050-compute-shader/ Three Eyed Games (this one teaches ray tracing AND compute shaders, what a bargain!): http://three-eyed-games.com/2018/05/03/gpu-ray-tracing-in-unity-part-1/

I also wanted to talk a little bit about I do research for projects!

A lot of my proficiency in shaders just comes from practice and slowly building a better understanding of how to best utilize the tools at my disposal, almost like each project is solving a puzzle and I want to find the most optimal solution I can come up with.

This is definitely easier said than done and while a lot of my proficiency comes from just doodling around with projects and practicing, I understand that "just practice more lol" is a boring and kinda unhelpful answer. When it comes to projects like my lighting engine, I came up with a lot of the algorithm stuff myself, but there were certainly lots of details that I learned about from past projects and research like ray marching (calculating the ray intersection of a distance function) and I learned about the jump flood algorithm from a tech artist friend (calculating distance functions from textures)

Each new algorithm you learn in various projects ends up being another tool in your toolbox, and each project becomes a combination of researching new tools and applying the tools you've learned in the past.

One last example. I made a Chladni plate simulation in blender (that thing where you put sand on a metal plate and play noises and it makes patterns) and it started with me researching and looking up chladni plates, I watched youtube videos related to why the sand forms the patterns it does, which ended up being due to how the sound waves displaced the plane. I googled some more and found the actual equation that represents it, and used it to simulate particle motion.

Figure out some projects you want to do and just do some googling or ask for help in game dev discord servers or whatever. Lot's of research on a per-project basis is honestly how you'll learn the most imo :3

[dreamrefuge]

Finally, I started playing this game (∩˃o˂∩)♡

It's part of my childhood since I played and I'm a huge fan of Harvest Moon: Back to Nature. I've always wanted to play as a girl and it's happening now (╥﹏╥)

Some of the starting pictures I wanted to share ꒰ᐢ. ̫ .ᐢ꒱

First, we have the intro and then pictures about the past (which are very similar to the original FoMT/BTN). Aaand, I'm very excited we can change our costumes now. This is a great improvement for the original series ˙ᵕ˙

The new animals are nice! Look at the pink cow ꒰✿´ ꒳ ` ꒱♡

The Harvest Sprites are back (੭˃ᴗ˂)੭

The landscapes are beautiful (..◜ᴗ◝..)

In the last, we have 3 of the bachelors and bachelorettes. Popuri was my character's wife in BTN, Ran (previously known as Ann) was my character's crush in BTN but Cliff took her away (｡•́︿•̀｡), and, ironically, Cliff is my character's future husband (つ≧▽≦)'

Their visuals are different, but I think they got pretty cool! Ann is more girly, and Popuri got prettier with her pink hair (is that possible?)

Anyway, I'm enjoying the game and it gives me the school days nostalgia. I think some things are easier, but the one I really appreciated was the bell for calling the animals. The songs are similar to the original ones, but a little bit modernized. Talking about the map, it seems bigger and optimized. Oh, I loved the toolbox outside of the house, it helps a lot!

[govindhtech]

AI Frameworks Help Data Scientists For GenAI Survival

AI Frameworks: Crucial to the Success of GenAI

Develop Your AI Capabilities Now

You play a crucial part in the quickly growing field of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as a data scientist. Your proficiency in data analysis, modeling, and interpretation is still essential, even though platforms like Hugging Face and LangChain are at the forefront of AI research.

Although GenAI systems are capable of producing remarkable outcomes, they still mostly depend on clear, organized data and perceptive interpretation areas in which data scientists are highly skilled. You can direct GenAI models to produce more precise, useful predictions by applying your in-depth knowledge of data and statistical techniques. In order to ensure that GenAI systems are based on strong, data-driven foundations and can realize their full potential, your job as a data scientist is crucial. Here’s how to take the lead:

Data Quality Is Crucial

The effectiveness of even the most sophisticated GenAI models depends on the quality of the data they use. By guaranteeing that the data is relevant, AI tools like Pandas and Modin enable you to clean, preprocess, and manipulate large datasets.

Analysis and Interpretation of Exploratory Data

It is essential to comprehend the features and trends of the data before creating the models. Data and model outputs are visualized via a variety of data science frameworks, like Matplotlib and Seaborn, which aid developers in comprehending the data, selecting features, and interpreting the models.

Model Optimization and Evaluation

A variety of algorithms for model construction are offered by AI frameworks like scikit-learn, PyTorch, and TensorFlow. To improve models and their performance, they provide a range of techniques for cross-validation, hyperparameter optimization, and performance evaluation.

Model Deployment and Integration

Tools such as ONNX Runtime and MLflow help with cross-platform deployment and experimentation tracking. By guaranteeing that the models continue to function successfully in production, this helps the developers oversee their projects from start to finish.

Intel’s Optimized AI Frameworks and Tools

The technologies that developers are already familiar with in data analytics, machine learning, and deep learning (such as Modin, NumPy, scikit-learn, and PyTorch) can be used. For the many phases of the AI process, such as data preparation, model training, inference, and deployment, Intel has optimized the current AI tools and AI frameworks, which are based on a single, open, multiarchitecture, multivendor software platform called oneAPI programming model.

Data Engineering and Model Development:

To speed up end-to-end data science pipelines on Intel architecture, use Intel’s AI Tools, which include Python tools and frameworks like Modin, Intel Optimization for TensorFlow Optimizations, PyTorch Optimizations, IntelExtension for Scikit-learn, and XGBoost.

Optimization and Deployment

For CPU or GPU deployment, Intel Neural Compressor speeds up deep learning inference and minimizes model size. Models are optimized and deployed across several hardware platforms including Intel CPUs using the OpenVINO toolbox.

You may improve the performance of your Intel hardware platforms with the aid of these AI tools.

Library of Resources

Discover collection of excellent, professionally created, and thoughtfully selected resources that are centered on the core data science competencies that developers need. Exploring machine and deep learning AI frameworks.

What you will discover:

Use Modin to expedite the extract, transform, and load (ETL) process for enormous DataFrames and analyze massive datasets.

To improve speed on Intel hardware, use Intel’s optimized AI frameworks (such as Intel Optimization for XGBoost, Intel Extension for Scikit-learn, Intel Optimization for PyTorch, and Intel Optimization for TensorFlow).

Use Intel-optimized software on the most recent Intel platforms to implement and deploy AI workloads on Intel Tiber AI Cloud.

How to Begin

Frameworks for Data Engineering and Machine Learning

Step 1: View the Modin, Intel Extension for Scikit-learn, and Intel Optimization for XGBoost videos and read the introductory papers.

Modin: To achieve a quicker turnaround time overall, the video explains when to utilize Modin and how to apply Modin and Pandas judiciously. A quick start guide for Modin is also available for more in-depth information.

Scikit-learn Intel Extension: This tutorial gives you an overview of the extension, walks you through the code step-by-step, and explains how utilizing it might improve performance. A movie on accelerating silhouette machine learning techniques, PCA, and K-means clustering is also available.

Intel Optimization for XGBoost: This straightforward tutorial explains Intel Optimization for XGBoost and how to use Intel optimizations to enhance training and inference performance.

Step 2: Use Intel Tiber AI Cloud to create and develop machine learning workloads.

On Intel Tiber AI Cloud, this tutorial runs machine learning workloads with Modin, scikit-learn, and XGBoost.

Step 3: Use Modin and scikit-learn to create an end-to-end machine learning process using census data.

Run an end-to-end machine learning task using 1970–2010 US census data with this code sample. The code sample uses the Intel Extension for Scikit-learn module to analyze exploratory data using ridge regression and the Intel Distribution of Modin.

Deep Learning Frameworks

Step 4: Begin by watching the videos and reading the introduction papers for Intel’s PyTorch and TensorFlow optimizations.

Intel PyTorch Optimizations: Read the article to learn how to use the Intel Extension for PyTorch to accelerate your workloads for inference and training. Additionally, a brief video demonstrates how to use the addon to run PyTorch inference on an Intel Data Center GPU Flex Series.

Intel’s TensorFlow Optimizations: The article and video provide an overview of the Intel Extension for TensorFlow and demonstrate how to utilize it to accelerate your AI tasks.

Step 5: Use TensorFlow and PyTorch for AI on the Intel Tiber AI Cloud.

In this article, it show how to use PyTorch and TensorFlow on Intel Tiber AI Cloud to create and execute complicated AI workloads.

Step 6: Speed up LSTM text creation with Intel Extension for TensorFlow.

The Intel Extension for TensorFlow can speed up LSTM model training for text production.

Step 7: Use PyTorch and DialoGPT to create an interactive chat-generation model.

Discover how to use Hugging Face’s pretrained DialoGPT model to create an interactive chat model and how to use the Intel Extension for PyTorch to dynamically quantize the model.

Read more on Govindhtech.com

[janetjacksonseo]

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[aokozaki]

Opus Magnum is the best game of all time because it's about inventing solutions using a toolbox of parts, encouraging you to optimize your solution along three categories (part cost, steps/cycles required, and space taken up), and then letting you export a looping gif of your solution.

Anyway this is slow, but cheap and compact! HAHAHA! YESSSSSS~

[capstonees]

BIM Careers: Building Your Future in the Digital AEC Arena

The construction industry is undergoing a digital revolution, and BIM (Building Information Modeling) is at the forefront. It's no longer just a fancy 3D modeling tool; BIM is a collaborative platform that integrates data-rich models with workflows across the entire building lifecycle. This translates to exciting career opportunities for those who can harness the power of BIM.

Are you ready to step into the octagon of the digital construction arena? (Yes, we're keeping the fighting metaphor alive!) Here's a breakdown of the in-demand skills, salary ranges, and future prospects for BIM professionals:

The In-Demand Skillset: Your BIM Arsenal

Think of your BIM skills as your tools in the digital construction toolbox. Here are the top weapons you'll need:

BIM Software Proficiency: Mastering software like Revit, ArchiCAD, or Navisworks is crucial. Understanding their functionalities allows you to create, manipulate, and analyze BIM models.

Building Science Fundamentals: A solid grasp of architectural, structural, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) principles is essential for creating BIM models that reflect real-world construction realities.

Collaboration & Communication: BIM thrives on teamwork. The ability to collaborate effectively with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders is paramount.

Data Management & Analysis: BIM models are data-rich. Being adept at data extraction, analysis, and interpretation unlocks the true potential of BIM for informed decision-making.

Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: BIM projects are complex. The ability to identify and solve problems creatively, while thinking critically about the design and construction process, is invaluable.

Salary Showdown: The BIM Payday Punch

Now, let's talk about the real knock-out factor – salaries! According to Indeed, BIM professionals in the US can expect an average annual salary of around $85,000. This number can vary depending on experience, location, and specific BIM expertise. Entry-level BIM roles might start around $60,000, while BIM Managers and BIM Specialists with extensive experience can command salaries exceeding $100,000.

Future Forecast: A Bright BIM Horizon

The future of BIM is bright. The global BIM market is projected to reach a staggering $8.8 billion by 2025 (Grand View Research). This translates to a continuous rise in demand for skilled BIM professionals. Here are some exciting trends shaping the future of BIM careers:

BIM for Specialty Trades: BIM is no longer just for architects and engineers. We'll see increased adoption by specialty trades like HVAC technicians and fire protection specialists.

Integration with AI and Machine Learning: Imagine BIM models that can predict potential issues or suggest optimal design solutions. AI and machine learning will revolutionize BIM capabilities.

VR and AR for Enhanced Collaboration: Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) will allow for immersive BIM model walkthroughs, facilitating better collaboration and design communication.

Ready to Join the BIM Revolution?

The BIM landscape offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for those with the right skills. If you're passionate about technology, construction, and shaping the future of the built environment, then BIM might be your perfect career match. So, hone your skills, embrace the digital revolution, and step into the exciting world of BIM with Capstone Engineering!

[morgan-va]

Chapter 8: Countdown to Perfection

Masterlist

The house was alive with a hum of activity as the countdown to Saturday’s gala began in earnest. Morning sunlight poured through the mansion’s grand windows, illuminating the faint dust motes in the air as you meticulously worked on fixing a temperamental chandelier in the foyer. Tools clinked softly as you adjusted its wiring, your face set with concentration. Below, V and N stood ready to assist, their optics scanning your movements.

"Almost there," you muttered, holding a loose wire in place. "N, pass me the soldering iron."

N cheerfully obliged, hurrying to your toolbox and retrieving the tool with a wide grin. "Here you go! Hey, did you know that soldering smells kind of funny? Like... metal soup."

You couldn't help but chuckle. "I'll take your word for it, N. Thanks."

V, who was holding the base of the ladder steady, glanced up. Her expression was as neutral as ever, but her optics flickered briefly behind her glasses—a telltale sign of some unspoken thought. "Are you sure this will hold through the gala?" she asked quietly, her tone tinged with worry.

"That's what I'm here to make sure of," you replied, giving her a small, reassuring smile. "The last thing we want is the chandelier crashing down in the middle of someone's speech."

V nodded, though her optics lingered on the chandelier with faint unease.

The morning pressed on with a steady rhythm of tasks. After finishing the chandelier, the three of you moved through the mansion, inspecting and repairing anything that could risk being an embarrassment during the gala. Loose floorboards were nailed down, ornate fixtures polished to a mirror shine, and the finicky dumbwaiter received a full recalibration.

While J had initially been your liaison for most of the household's operations, her absence this week was palpable. She had taken command of a fleet of rented drones assigned to handle the intricate dining setup for the gala. The occasional sharp bark of her "motivational speeches" echoed faintly from the direction of the kitchen, punctuated with phrases like, "Streamline the silverware symmetry!" and "Plate rotation efficiency at 110%, team!"

"J’s probably loving this," V muttered as you all passed the dining hall. Her voice was barely audible over the synchronized clattering of plates and the clipped tones of corporate jargon.

"I don’t know if 'loving' is the right word," you replied dryly, suppressing a grin.

"She’s in her element," N added enthusiastically, his optics practically sparkling. "She really cares about getting things just right!"

V snorted softly but didn’t comment further.

By midday, you found yourself kneeling by one of the mansion’s large windows, tightening its latch to make sure it could withstand an unexpected breeze. V knelt beside you, inspecting the frame for cracks.

"You’ve been awfully quiet," you remarked, glancing at her out of the corner of your eye.

"I’m just... focused," she replied, though there was an uncharacteristic hesitance in her voice.

You decided not to press her, instead directing N to test the latches on the windows further down the hall. He eagerly obliged, bouncing off with his usual cheer.

V's optics followed him for a moment before she spoke again, her voice barely above a whisper. "Do you think it’ll all be perfect? For the gala, I mean."

You paused, considering her question. "Nothing’s ever perfect, V. But if we do our best, it’ll be good enough."

Her optics flickered, and for a moment, she seemed to mull over your words. Then she nodded, her usual reserve settling over her once more.

"Come on," you said, standing and brushing off your hands. "There’s still plenty left to do."

V rose with you, ready to tackle the next task. The days ahead promised to be grueling, but with her at your side, you felt the faintest glimmer of optimism.

The grand hall was unusually quiet as you focused on the task at hand: straightening and securing the gallery of ornate paintings lining the walls. Each frame was an intricate masterpiece, heavy with gilded edges and delicate carvings, making the job of leveling them perfectly both tedious and precarious.

V stood at the base of the ladder, her hands firmly gripping its sides. Her optics followed your movements with a rare attentiveness, her expression unreadable.

"You good up there?" she asked softly, tilting her head slightly.

"Yeah, just give me a second," you replied, balancing awkwardly as you reached for the corner of the next painting. "This one’s a little crooked."

V’s optics flickered in acknowledgment, and she tightened her grip on the ladder. "Careful. I’m not exactly built to catch humans if you fall."

You chuckled lightly, adjusting the painting’s angle. "Duly noted. But don’t worry, I’ve got—"

Your words cut off as your foot slipped, the ladder wobbling dangerously beneath you. Your stomach lurched as gravity took hold, and you felt yourself falling backward.

"V!" was all you managed to shout before you collided with something solid—and unmistakably metallic. The world spun as you hit the ground with a loud thud, the air forced from your lungs as you realized what—or rather, who—you had landed on.

You hit the ground with a hard jolt, a sharp crackle of static electricity sparking between you and V as you landed squarely on top of her. The unexpected shock left your body tingling, but a quick assessment told you there were no serious injuries—just some bruised pride and, no doubt, an irritated drone beneath you.

"V! Are you alright?" you asked, quickly scrambling off her and extending a hand to help her up.

"I—" V started, her voice catching as she stared up at you, optics wide and flickering. She didn’t move to take your hand, instead remaining frozen on the floor, her fingers trembling as they lifted to point directly at you.

“What’s wrong?” Panic began to creep into your voice as her optics seemed to track every detail of your face with an unnerving intensity. “V, say something! Are you hurt?”

Her optics flickered again, a faint static hum breaking the silence. "I—" she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "You’re... not a shadow anymore."

You blinked, momentarily unsure if you’d heard her correctly. "What?"

V finally took your hand, her grip uncharacteristically shaky as she allowed you to pull her upright. Once she was standing, she stepped back slightly, her optics scanning you from head to toe in an almost disbelieving manner.

"You’re not... a shadow. I can... see you," she repeated, her tone awestruck.

For a moment, neither of you said anything, the weight of her words sinking in. You stared at her, trying to process the impossible. She wasn’t supposed to see anything other than a vague black silhouette when looking at you or any human. That’s just how she—and all drones—were programmed. Yet here she was, gazing at you like you were some kind of miracle.

“How is that possible?” you asked, your voice hushed.

“I... I don’t know,” she admitted, her optics darting nervously, her hand lifting slightly before dropping again, as though she wasn’t sure whether to reach out. “You’re—this doesn’t make any sense. You’ve always been a shadow. But now you’re... you’re not.”

You swallowed hard, your own shock mirroring hers. “You’re sure? This isn’t just... some kind of glitch?”

“It’s not a glitch,” V whispered, her tone soft yet filled with certainty. She stared at you, an almost childlike wonder in her optics. "I don’t understand why, but I can really... see you."

The moment hung heavy between you, an unspoken realization dawning on both of you. Something had changed—something neither of you could explain, but that had undeniably shifted the way V saw you.

And for the first time, she didn’t seem to know how to respond.

V’s optics remained locked on you, her hands twitching slightly at her sides as though she wanted to reach out but didn’t dare. “You’re... different,” she murmured, her tone soft and awestruck.

You rubbed the back of your neck, unsure what to make of her reaction. “Different how?”

“I mean—I can see you,” she repeated, her voice trembling. “Your face, your... everything. You’re not just a shadow anymore. I didn’t even know that was possible.”

Her words sent a shiver down your spine. You frowned, glancing at your hands as if they held some kind of answer. “Maybe...” you began, hesitant, “it’s because of the fall? Or that static discharge? It could have done something to your visual processors.”

V blinked rapidly, her optics flickering. “Static? You think that’s it?”

“It’s the only thing I can think of,” you admitted. “Your programming makes it so drones only see humans as shadows, right? Maybe something shorted out and...” You trailed off, feeling her gaze boring into you.

V took a small, hesitant step closer, her optics scanning you like she was seeing something extraordinary for the first time. “If it’s a glitch, I... I don’t know if I want it to stop,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “You’re... I didn’t realize how much I was missing.”

You weren’t sure how to respond to that. The way she looked at you—with a mixture of amazement and vulnerability—was enough to make your chest tighten. “Well, uh...” You fumbled for words, trying to keep the situation grounded. “If this is a glitch, I should probably check it out. Just to make sure it’s not dangerous or something.”

“Dangerous?” V asked, her optics darting nervously.

“Not to you,” you reassured her quickly. “But if something’s gone wrong with your systems, it might cause problems down the line.”

“I—” V started, but her words caught in her vocalizer. She took another step closer, her optics never leaving you. “It’s just... weird. I’m used to shadows, not... this.”

She stumbled over her words, her usual awkwardness amplified by the situation. "Your face... it’s... it’s..." Her voice trailed off, and she quickly turned her head away, as though embarrassed by her own reaction.

“You okay?” you asked gently, tilting your head to meet her gaze.

“I’m fine,” she said quickly, though her optics betrayed her nervousness. “It’s just... a lot. Sorry. I’ll—I’ll stop staring.”

“It’s alright,” you said, trying to lighten the mood. “I guess I’d be shocked too if things flipped like this out of nowhere.”

V didn’t respond immediately, but her optics lingered on you for another moment, her expression soft and unsure. Finally, she turned away, still visibly rattled.

“I’ll, um... let you figure out what happened,” she muttered, her voice quieter than usual. But even as she stepped back, her optics darted back to you, as though she couldn’t help but keep looking.

You exhaled, trying to steady yourself. Whatever had just happened, it was more than either of you could make sense of. And the way V kept glancing at you, wide-eyed and unsure, only added to the surreal weight of the moment.

The tension in the room was cut short by the sudden clatter of hurried footsteps on the stairs. Both you and V turned toward the sound, and moments later, Tessa appeared, her hair slightly disheveled and a wild gleam in her eye.

“I’m heading out!” she declared, her voice bright but edged with urgency. “Don’t tell anyone—I’ll be back soon. If my parents ask, just say I’m studying outside. Fresh air, you know?”

You blinked at her, caught off guard by the abruptness of her statement. “Uh... okay, but where are you going?”

Tessa waved a hand dismissively as she pulled on a jacket she’d grabbed from the coat rack. “Just—somewhere. It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.”

“That’s... not exactly reassuring,” you said, your concern creeping into your tone.

“I’ll be fine,” Tessa insisted, shooting you a quick, almost playful grin. “Promise. Just cover for me, okay?”

You exchanged a look with V, whose optics flickered in silent confusion, then back at Tessa. “If you’re planning something, it might help to at least—”

“No time for explanations!” Tessa interrupted, already halfway to the door. “You’re the best, bye!”

And with that, she was gone, the door swinging shut behind her.

You stood there for a moment, processing what had just happened. “Studying outside,” you repeated flatly, looking to V.

V tilted her head, her expression still slightly dazed from the earlier revelation, but she managed to focus enough to mutter, “That was suspicious.”

“You think?” you replied, already dreading the questions you’d inevitably have to dodge if anyone noticed her absence.

Still, there was little you could do now except wait and hope Tessa wasn’t about to get herself into trouble—or worse.

V’s optics lingered on the door long after Tessa had disappeared, her earlier awe replaced with something more contemplative. You were about to ask her what she was thinking when she spoke up, her voice low and uncertain.

“There’s... something else,” she said, her optics flickering slightly as they turned back to you.

You frowned. “What is it?”

V hesitated, her fingers twitching as if trying to grasp at the right words. “When Tessa ran by just now,” she began slowly, “she was still... a shadow to me.”

The weight of her statement hung in the air like a lead balloon. Your stomach sank as the implications began to settle in. “Wait,” you said, narrowing your eyes. “You’re saying I’m the only one you can see? Like... really see?”

V nodded, her gaze fixed on you with a mix of confusion and awe. “It’s just you. Everyone else is still... the way they’ve always been. But you…” She trailed off, her optics brightening as if struggling to process the enormity of it.

Your thoughts spun, trying to piece together the why and how. “That doesn’t make sense,” you muttered, rubbing the back of your neck. “The static discharge, maybe? Or... could it be something with your optics? Or your processing unit?”

V’s lips parted as if to respond, but she quickly shut them, glancing down at her hands. “I don’t know,” she admitted, her voice soft. “But it’s... strange. And it’s not bad—just... new.”

The way she stared at you—earnest and unguarded—sent a chill down your spine. It wasn’t the unnerving kind of stare, but one filled with a sincerity that made your heart skip. You were so used to being an afterthought in this household, another cog in the machine. Yet here was V, looking at you as if you were the most fascinating thing she’d ever encountered.

“This doesn’t feel like just a glitch,” she murmured, her optics narrowing slightly as if trying to read something hidden beneath your skin. “It’s like...” She stopped herself, shaking her head as if unwilling to finish the thought.

You cleared your throat, trying to bring the conversation back to something grounded. “Whatever’s causing this, we’ll figure it out. First things first, though—I should probably take a closer look at your optics and your processing unit when we have some time. See if I can find anything unusual.”

V nodded, her gaze still locked on you. “Yeah. That sounds... good.”

But even as she said it, there was a lingering sense that neither of you would be able to explain this easily. Whatever had changed between you, it was bigger than a simple malfunction. And as much as it unnerved you, it also intrigued you.

“Come on,” you said finally, gesturing toward the ladder and the paintings still waiting to be adjusted. “We’ve got work to finish.”

V blinked, as if snapping out of a daze, before following you back to the task at hand. But even as she held the ladder steady, you could feel her gaze on you, as though she were still trying to comprehend the inexplicable shift between you both.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of work. With N cheerfully dusting and organizing as you and V tackled the repairs, the tasks went quicker than you’d expected. The three of you moved as a team, almost instinctively aware of each other’s roles. By the time evening settled over the mansion, the bulk of the day’s list had been checked off.

You let out a satisfied sigh as you returned your tools to the workshop, setting aside the checklist for tomorrow’s tasks. V followed close behind, her usual quiet demeanor more introspective than usual.

“Alright, let’s see what we can find,” you said, motioning for her to sit on the workbench. She climbed up with a nod, her optics glowing faintly in the dim workshop light.

“I’m still not sure this is worth the trouble,” V murmured, folding her hands in her lap. “Everything feels normal... except for, you know.” She gestured vaguely toward you.

“Well, normal doesn’t explain why I’m suddenly not a shadow to you,” you said, gently removing the panel on the back of her head. You worked in silence for a while, carefully inspecting her processors and circuits. Everything appeared pristine—clean, untampered. You ran a few tests through her diagnostic systems, but each result came back normal.

“Processing speed is optimal,” you muttered, scrolling through the results. “No memory corruption, no circuit degradation...”

V tilted her head slightly, watching you with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. “So, nothing?”

“Nothing,” you confirmed, leaning back with a frustrated sigh. “No physical damage, no glitches in your software. As far as I can tell, you’re in perfect condition.”

Her optics flickered thoughtfully. “Then why?”

“I don’t know,” you admitted, replacing her panel and stepping back. “There’s no logical reason for this—at least, none I can find. Whatever’s happening... it’s beyond anything I’ve seen before.”

V hopped down from the bench, brushing herself off. “So, I’m just stuck seeing you like this?”

You glanced at her, noting the faint blush of light on her optics—a sign of emotion she rarely displayed. “Does it bother you?”

She paused, as if genuinely considering the question. “No,” she said quietly. “It’s just... different. I’ve never seen anyone like this before. It’s a lot to take in.”

You couldn’t blame her. It was a lot for you to take in, too. As much as you wanted an answer, the lack of one left a gnawing uncertainty in the back of your mind.

“Well, if you notice anything else strange, let me know,” you said, crossing your arms. “We’ll figure it out eventually.”

V nodded, her optics lingering on you for a moment longer before turning toward the door. “Thanks,” she said softly, her tone carrying an unusual warmth. 

And with that, she slipped out of the workshop, leaving you alone with your thoughts and the growing mystery surrounding her sudden clarity.

The quiet hum of the workshop was your only company as you leaned over the latest repair, the methodical work offering some solace from the lingering questions in your mind. V’s strange new clarity still loomed large, but for now, you focused on the tangible tasks at hand.

Above you, the muffled sound of movement reached your ears. Tessa must finally be home. You glanced toward the ceiling, momentarily distracted, but soon returned your attention to the delicate mechanisms in front of you.

Minutes passed, and you became absorbed in your work—until a soft knock on the workshop door broke your concentration.

"Come in," you called, setting your tools aside and wiping your hands on a nearby rag.

The door creaked open, revealing Tessa. She peeked inside, her posture slightly hunched as if already apologizing for interrupting you.

“Hey,” she began, her voice small but carrying a note of urgency. “I, um... I need your help with something. I know you’re busy, and I hate to add to your plate, but... I can’t do this without you.”

You blinked, surprised by her hesitation. Tessa was rarely this uncertain, her usual energy replaced by an almost sheepish demeanor. Whatever this was, it had clearly rattled her.

“Of course,” you said, rising to your feet. “What do you need?”

She stepped aside, gesturing to someone—or something—just outside the door. Your heart stopped.

A drone stepped into view, its sleek frame darkened from wear and tear, with striking yellow optics that gleamed unnervingly bright in the dim light. It was her.

Your breath hitched as the room seemed to close in on you, the walls pressing inward, suffocating. Memories of your nightmares flooded back in an instant—screaming, fire, carnage, and that unnerving, bone-chilling grin.

What was she doing here? Why had Tessa brought this thing into the house?

The drone tilted its head, optics focused on you with an unsettling precision, as if it could sense your growing dread.

You couldn’t move, couldn’t speak—until the silence was broken.

The oppressive silence of the workshop wrapped around you, a sharp contrast to the swirling storm of thoughts in your head. The drone from your nightmares—the one who had haunted your visions with blood and chaos—stood in the doorway, her presence enough to make the air feel heavier. Tessa’s voice had faded to white noise as your attention zeroed in on Cyn.

She tilted her head at an odd angle, supporting it with her hand as her neck joint gave a faint, unnatural creak. Her glowing yellow optics stared at you, unblinking, and when she finally spoke, her voice was soft, almost childlike, but carried an unsettling hollowness.

“Step forward,” she announced as she shuffled into the room, her feet pointed slightly inward. “Polite smile.” Her lips curved into an imitation of a grin, but it didn’t reach her eyes, which flickered faintly like a glitch.

You couldn’t help but flinch at her words, your stomach knotting tighter with every second she remained in your presence. The way she moved was wrong—stilted and awkward, her body swaying as though unaccustomed to balancing itself properly.

Tessa stepped in behind her, her usual energy dampened by a nervous edge. “So, uh… I found her in the dump, like V and N,” she said quickly, rubbing the back of her neck. “But she’s… not like them. She’s different.”

You blinked, finally pulling your focus away from Cyn long enough to meet Tessa’s eyes. “Different how?”

Tessa hesitated, glancing at Cyn as though she might say something. When the drone remained eerily still, save for the occasional flicker of her optics, Tessa continued.

“Well, she doesn’t act like V or N. Or any drone I’ve seen before, really.” She gave a small, uneasy laugh. “I thought maybe you could, y’know, run some diagnostics or something? See if there’s something wrong with her?”

“Greetings,” Cyn said suddenly, cutting into the conversation. Her optics locked onto you as she raised one hand in a slow, deliberate wave. “Friendly gesture. Hello, human.”

Your chest tightened as she addressed you directly, her unsettling grin widening as though she were testing out the expression. You struggled to find your voice, unsure how to respond to something so… uncanny.

“Uh,” you finally managed, turning your attention back to Tessa. “You want me to…?”

Tessa nodded quickly, her voice almost pleading. “Please. I don’t know what else to do. I mean, look at her!”

As if on cue, Cyn’s head fell in the opposite direction, as if her neck joint was nothing but a ball socket. As her hand rose to hold her head up, her optics narrowing slightly as though studying you. “Curious glance,” she narrated softly. “Awaiting orders.”

You hesitated, the weight of Tessa’s request pressing down on you. Every instinct screamed at you to turn away, to refuse. And yet, the look on Tessa’s face—one of genuine concern—kept you rooted in place.

With a deep breath, you nodded. “Alright,” you said, trying to keep your voice steady. “Let’s… take a look.”

Tessa exhaled in relief as Cyn turned toward the workbench. Her movements were jerky, yet purposeful, her posture somehow both rigid and unstable.

“Walking to the table,” Cyn murmured, her tone eerily calm as she climbed onto the bench. She turned to face you, her optics bright and unblinking. “Seated. Ready for inspection.”

Tessa lingered in the doorway, her hands clasped nervously in front of her. You could feel her gaze on you as you gathered your tools, each motion slower than usual as though your body were reluctant to proceed.

As you approached Cyn, the tension in the room grew heavier. Her optics followed your every movement, her unsettling smile still fixed on her face. You tried to focus on the task ahead, but the nightmares plagued your mind.

The workshop was heavy with the low hum of equipment as you reluctantly began your inspection of Cyn. You told yourself that the drone perched before you couldn’t possibly be the same one from your nightmares. Those were just dreams, after all. Fantasies cooked up by a stressed mind. There was no way this jerky, soft-spoken drone was the winged monstrosity from your visions.

Even so, you found it hard to shake the feeling that you shouldn’t be anywhere near her.

Cyn sat perfectly still, her optics following your every movement. Occasionally, her head would tilt or shift unnaturally, forcing her to brace it with her hand. "Awaiting inspection," she murmured once more, her voice calm, almost... childlike. The words made your skin crawl and softened your resolve at the same time. There was something unsettling about her behavior, but it was also strangely endearing in its simplicity, almost as if she were trying her best to seem normal.

You worked in silence, your tools moving methodically across her frame as you conducted the diagnostic. Each ping and error code that appeared on the screen deepened the furrow in your brow. Processor failures. Servo malfunctions. Damaged memory banks.

By JCJenson repair standards, Cyn was completely unsalvageable.

“How is she?” Tessa’s voice pulled you from your thoughts. She had been lingering just outside the workshop, hesitant to disrupt you but unable to stay away for long.

You turned toward her, giving a small shake of your head. “She’s… a mess,” you admitted, gesturing toward the diagnostic screen. “I don’t even know how she’s still functioning. According to these results, she shouldn’t be.”

Tessa frowned and glanced at Cyn, who sat still as a statue on the workbench, her optics focused on you with an unreadable intensity.

“Is she dangerous?”

The question hung in the air for a moment, and you hesitated before answering. Cyn had done nothing to indicate any sort of threat. She was strange, yes—deeply strange—but her demeanor so far had been entirely harmless.

“No,” you said finally, though the word felt heavy in your throat. “I don’t think so. But she does have… a lot of issues. It’s going to take time to figure out how to fix her. If I even can.”

Tessa nodded thoughtfully before giving a small smile. “Well, she can stay, right? I mean, she hasn’t done anything wrong. Maybe we can give her something simple to do in the meantime.”

You hesitated again, but there didn’t seem to be a better option. You let out a sigh and rubbed the back of your neck. “Yeah. I guess she could clean glasses or something. There’s a room under the library, isn’t there? That should work for now. It’s out of the way.”

Tessa lit up at your agreement, her excitement seeming to bleed into Cyn as the drone sat a little straighter. “Humble lodgings,” Cyn muttered softly, her optics flickering for a moment. “Acceptable.”

You gave Tessa a look, but her expression was too hopeful for you to dampen it with your own worries. Pushing the unease to the back of your mind, you nodded toward Cyn. “Alright, let’s get her set up.”

As Tessa led the way, chatting about how Cyn could help, you caught the faintest glimpse of a smile on the odd drone’s face. Whether it was genuine or just another mimicry, you couldn’t tell.

For now, you decided it was better not to think too hard about it.

The walk to the library was weighted with a heavy silence. Tessa led the way, her earlier enthusiasm tempered by everything that had happened. Cyn trailed behind with her uneven gait, her occasional muttering barely audible but enough to raise the hairs on your neck.

As you neared the library, Louisa’s sharp voice rang out from within.

“…lazy pile of scrap metal! What did I tell you about wasting time?”

The three of you froze in the hallway, Tessa’s hands balling into fists.

“I—I was just looking at the pictures,” N stammered, his voice soft and unsteady. “I’ll get back to work, I promise!”

“You were supposed to be dusting, not standing around gawking like a broken drone!” Louisa snapped. “If you can’t do your job, I’ll make sure you end up in the swamp with the other useless trash. Is that clear?”

The sound of her footsteps stomped down the hall, and the air seemed to grow colder.

Tessa muttered something under her breath, her face contorted with barely concealed anger. You were about to say something comforting when N emerged from the library, clutching a small book to his chest.

“H-Hi, everyone,” he greeted shakily, his optics flickering nervously.

“N, are you okay?” Tessa asked, her tone softening.

“Y-Yeah, totally!” N forced a wide, innocent smile. “No big deal! Just gotta get back to dusting and stuff, right?” He laughed awkwardly, holding up the book. “But, uh, maybe after I finish this chapter…”

Before anyone could respond, Cyn spoke up from the back of the group. “Fragile, isn’t she?” Her voice was quiet but sharp, laced with an eerie calm.

N turned to her, confused. “Huh? Who?”

“The one who shouts,” Cyn replied, tilting her head. Her optics flickered briefly, her voice taking on an almost sing-song quality. “Loud words, brittle shell. Cracks are inevitable.”

Her comment hung in the air, heavy and disconcerting.

Tessa blinked, her expression a mix of confusion and unease. “Uh, Cyn, what do you mean by that?”

“Things break when pushed too hard,” Cyn continued, swaying slightly. Her gaze flicked down the hall where Louisa had disappeared. “Some cracks just need a little... help.”

N chuckled nervously, clearly trying to break the tension. “W-Well, I guess, uh, that’s one way to look at it? Anyway, I should probably get back to work! Dust waits for no drone!”

He gave a quick wave and darted back into the library, his usual cheerful energy awkwardly forced.

Tessa exchanged a look with you, her brow furrowing, but she said nothing as she turned toward the library door. Cyn trailed behind, her head tilted at an odd angle as if she were listening to something no one else could hear.

“Let’s just get this over with,” Tessa muttered, her earlier energy completely drained.

You nodded, casting one last look toward the hallway where Louisa had disappeared. Cyn’s cryptic words gnawed at the edges of your mind as you stepped inside the library, a foreboding weight settling over you.

The library was quiet, the soft hum of the house's systems barely audible over the muffled creak of the wooden floor beneath your boots. Tessa knelt near a corner of the room, brushing aside a rug to reveal a hidden trapdoor.

“There it is!” she said, her tone bright. “It’s not fancy, but it’ll give you a space to call your own, Cyn.”

She pulled the trapdoor open with a slight grunt, revealing a narrow staircase leading down into the faintly illuminated room below. From where you stood, you could make out the edges of what looked like a small, clean basement.

Cyn moved forward, her stilted gait surprisingly quiet against the floorboards. She stopped at the edge of the opening, her optics glowing faintly as she peered down. “A private space,” she murmured, her tone even. “For me?”

Tessa smiled. “Of course! We want you to feel comfortable here.”

You nodded, stepping closer. “It’s a good setup. I’ll come by in the morning to check in on you and help you get situated. Maybe even figure out a task or two to ease you in.”

Cyn turned her head toward you, the glow in her optics intensifying for a brief moment. “Thoughtful,” she said softly, as if weighing the word. “I’ll look forward to that.”

Her voice was calm, almost pleasant, though there was an odd deliberateness to her tone that you couldn’t quite place. You brushed it aside as unease from your earlier thoughts and gave her a small, reassuring smile.

“Get some rest if you can,” you said. “We’ll sort things out tomorrow.”

She inclined her head slightly, a gesture of acknowledgment, before descending the staircase. Her movements were slow and deliberate, one hand trailing lightly along the wall as she disappeared into the room below.

Tessa closed the trapdoor gently and looked at you, her smile soft. “Thanks for helping her,” she said. “I think she’s been through a lot… but I’ve got a good feeling about her.”

“Yeah,” you replied, glancing back at the now-covered hatch. “Let’s hope so.”

Tessa beamed before heading toward the door, her footsteps light as she began humming to herself. Left alone in the library, you lingered for a moment, staring at the spot where Cyn had disappeared.

Despite your reservations, you couldn’t deny the strangeness of her situation—or the possibility that she truly needed help. For now, all you could do was give her a chance.

With a deep breath, you turned and made your way out of the library, leaving the room silent once more.

The workshop’s hum was a constant companion, the faint vibration of machinery running in the background as you sat at your desk. The clutter of tools and spare parts surrounded you, but your focus wasn’t on any of it. Your hands idly fiddled with a screwdriver as your thoughts spiraled into the events of the day.

The symbol from your nightmares—etched into V’s circuits like a taunting reminder—seemed to glow in your mind’s eye. It made no sense. That same mark, haunting your dreams and now present in the real world. But it couldn’t mean anything, right? It was just a coincidence. That’s all it could be.

And Cyn…

You leaned back, the chair creaking under your weight as you sighed deeply. She shouldn’t even be functioning, let alone walking and talking. Diagnostics showed her as riddled with faults, her systems barely held together by sheer will or luck. Yet there she was, standing and learning, imitating politeness with a sincerity that almost seemed… endearing.

But despite her awkward, almost pitiable demeanor, there was something undeniably unnerving about her. You couldn’t place it, but being around her felt like standing too close to a barely contained fire. The way her optics followed you, how her words carried an undertone that sent a chill down your spine—it was subtle, but it was there.

Then there were your dreams. The flashes of chaos and destruction, with Cyn—or someone like her—at the center of it all. Were they just dreams, or something else entirely? You shook your head. No, they had to be dreams. You couldn’t see the future.

“Just… overthinking again,” you muttered to yourself, the sound a small comfort in the silent room.

Yet even as you tried to push Cyn from your mind, another thought barged its way in, one that sent an entirely different jolt through you.

V could see you.

Not as a shadow, like every other human, but as you. That had almost slipped your mind entirely amidst everything else.

You sat forward, gripping the edge of the desk as your heart picked up its pace. The shock in V’s optics, her stumbling words—it wasn’t just surprising. It was impossible. By design, drones weren’t supposed to see humans. It was a failsafe, a way to ensure detachment and obedience. Yet there was no denying what had happened.

Only you.

And the diagnostics had shown nothing wrong with her systems. No damage, no tampering, nothing to explain why she could suddenly see you. It wasn’t the static from the fall; it wasn’t some freak accident. At least, not one you could find evidence for.

Why you?

The question hung in the air, unanswered and maddening. Your grip on the screwdriver tightened as you tried to make sense of it. Was it another coincidence? Or was there something about you, something you didn’t understand?

Your gaze drifted to the ceiling, the dim light above you casting long, thin shadows across the room. It felt like the world was growing stranger by the day, each revelation stacking atop the last like a precarious tower threatening to collapse.

“V can see me. Cyn shouldn’t even work. And the symbol…” you trailed off, the words echoing softly in the stillness.

You shook your head, trying to clear it. It was too much for one day. The answers, if they even existed, would have to wait.

“Perplexing doesn’t even begin to cover it,” you muttered.

Rubbing your temples, you leaned back again, staring at the mess of tools and checklists strewn across your desk. It had been a long, maddening day, and tomorrow promised to be no less chaotic. For now, all you could do was prepare for whatever came next.