#retractable shade systems

[neilsnyder]

San Francisco Rustic Patio Patio kitchen - mid-sized rustic backyard concrete patio kitchen idea with a pergola

[fairytropics]

San Francisco Rustic Patio Patio - mid-sized rustic backyard concrete patio idea with a pergola

[rainier-shading]

How to Choose the Right Retractable Shading System for Your Patio?

Creating a comfortable and stylish outdoor space is a priority for many homeowners, and a retractable shading system can be a perfect addition to your patio. These versatile systems provide shade on demand, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor area regardless of the weather. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right retractable shading system for your patio? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best decision.

1. Assess Your Patio Space

Before selecting a retractable shading system, it’s essential to assess your patio space. Measure the area you want to cover to determine the size of the system you’ll need. Consider the shape and layout of your patio, as well as any existing structures like pergolas or walls that may influence your choice.

2. Determine Your Shading Needs

Identify your specific shading needs. Do you need full shade coverage or just partial protection from the sun? Consider the direction your patio faces and the amount of sunlight it receives throughout the day. For patios with intense sun exposure, a retractable awning might be ideal, while a lighter shade sail could suffice for areas with moderate sun.

3. Choose the Right Type of Retractable Shading System

There are various types of retractable shading systems available, each with its unique benefits:

Retractable Awnings: These are perfect for providing full coverage and can be easily extended or retracted using a manual crank or motorized system. They come in various materials and designs to match your patio decor.

Retractable Pergola Canopies: Ideal for adding a touch of elegance to your patio, these canopies can be attached to existing pergola structures, offering adjustable shade and protection from light rain.

Retractable Roof Systems: For ultimate flexibility, retractable roof systems can cover large areas and provide full protection from sun and rain. They are often motorized and can include additional features like LED lighting and side screens.

Shade Sails: These are versatile and cost-effective options, perfect for creating a modern look. Shade sails are made from durable fabric and can be positioned in various configurations to provide the desired amount of shade.

4. Consider Material and Durability

The material of your retractable shading system is crucial for its durability and effectiveness. Look for high-quality, weather-resistant fabrics that offer UV protection. Acrylic and polyester fabrics are popular choices for their durability and ability to withstand the elements. Additionally, consider the frame material — aluminum and stainless steel are excellent options for their strength and resistance to rust.

5. Evaluate Ease of Use and Maintenance

Choose a shading system that is easy to operate and maintain. Motorized systems offer convenience with the touch of a button, while manual systems may require more effort but are often more affordable. Ensure that the system you choose has easy-to-clean materials and requires minimal maintenance to keep it looking and functioning well.

6. Match Your Style and Budget

Finally, select a retractable shading system that complements your patio’s style and fits within your budget. With various designs, colors, and finishes available, you can find a system that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. While it’s essential to stay within your budget, investing in a high-quality system will provide better durability and performance in the long run.

Conclusion

Choosing the right retractable shading system for your patio involves careful consideration of your space, shading needs, material, ease of use, and budget. By assessing these factors and exploring the different types of retractable shading systems available, you can find the perfect solution to enhance your outdoor living area. Enjoy the benefits of adjustable shade, improved comfort, and added style as you make the most of your patio, no matter the weather.

[earthideasout]

Introducing Earth Ideas Awnings and Sunscreens

Welcome to Earth Ideas Awnings and Sunscreens, where innovation meets quality in the world of Houston Commercial Canopy Awnings and Houston Motorized Shade Awnings. As a premier provider in the industry, we're dedicated to revolutionizing outdoor spaces with our exceptional range of awnings and sunscreens.

Unraveling the Essence of Houston Commercial Canopy Awnings

In the bustling city of Houston, commercial spaces demand a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics. Our Houston Commercial Canopy Awnings offer an unparalleled solution to shield your business from the scorching Texas sun while enhancing the visual appeal of your establishment. Crafted with premium materials and cutting-edge technology, our canopies are tailored to suit diverse commercial needs, be it cafes, storefronts, or office spaces.

Elevating Comfort with Houston Motorized Shade Awnings

Our Houston Motorized Shade Awnings redefine convenience and sophistication. Designed for modern living, these awnings seamlessly integrate into your space, offering customizable shade solutions at the touch of a button. Experience the ultimate comfort and control with our motorized awnings, perfect for patios, decks, or any outdoor area in need of shade and style.

The Earth Ideas Advantage

At Earth Ideas, we pride ourselves on delivering not just products, but experiences. Our commitment extends beyond mere functionality. We prioritize:

Superior Craftsmanship

Every awning and sunscreen are a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. We ensure durability, reliability, and a touch of elegance in every design, setting new standards in the industry.

Tailored Solutions

Understanding that every space is unique, we offer bespoke solutions. Our team works closely with clients to understand their vision, providing tailored designs that blend seamlessly with the aesthetics of their space.

Innovation at its Core

Staying at the forefront of innovation, we incorporate the latest technology to offer smart solutions. From automated controls to eco-friendly materials, we're dedicated to sustainable, forward-thinking solutions.

Customer-Centric Approach

Our commitment doesn't end with the sale. Earth Ideas prioritizes exceptional customer service, ensuring a seamless experience from consultation to installation and beyond.

Conclusion

In a world where quality meets innovation, Earth Ideas Awnings and Sunscreens stand as a beacon of excellence. Elevate your commercial space or outdoor area with our top-tier Houston Commercial Canopy Awnings and Houston Motorized Shade Awnings. Experience the perfect amalgamation of style, functionality, and durability with Earth Ideas.

[newmas]

Patio in Boston Patio design for a sizable courtyard with decking and a pergola

[essiedoessummer]

Patio Providence Large image of a stamped concrete patio in a tuscan backyard with a gazebo.

[ushomeguard]

Patio - Patio Inspiration for a large courtyard patio remodel with decking and a pergola

[dylanobrns]

Contemporary Sunroom - Compact Sunroom - small contemporary sunroom idea

[girlkisser13]

hephaestus cabin headcanons

children of hephaestus

• OIL, SOOT, and GREASE STAINS EVERYWHERE.

• the have the most intense games of hide-and-seek in bunker 9.

• a lot of them lose limbs, become disabled in some way, or are born that way, and they often use it as a reason to build themselves cool robot prostheses and other tools to help them get around.

• along with the athena cabin, they come up with weapons and armory specifically for disabled demigods.

• they build advanced prosthetics for campers who have lost limbs in battle.

• they’re warmer than most demigods, even if they don’t have fire powers.

• they always know when someone is in need of a weapon and they just create it without thinking about it. like they just know when someone needs a weapon before they ask for it.

• they're the only ones who can pick out stuff from hephaestus's junkyard without getting hurt.

• everything, the cabin, the forge, the bunker, is 100% handicap accessible.

• they worked with the athena and hecate cabins to upgrade bunker 9 to allow better lighting, safer rooms, new areas to test weapons, etc. they wanted it to feel like an underground space station.

• they name each of their tools and inventions.

• on birthdays, they give each other personalized gadgets that solve everyday problems, like a self-tying shoelace or a self-stirring spoon.

• they design and wear fireproof clothing.

• they actually have numerous secret hideouts and mini-workshops hidden around camp half-blood (bunker 9 is the only one we know about).

• they keep detailed journals filled with sketches, ideas, and notes about their inventions, passing them down through generations of hephaestus kids.

• they build small, mechanical pets or companions that help them with tasks around the forge, each one with a unique personality programmed in.

• they all have a set of personalized tools that they've crafted themselves, often with special engravings or modifications to suit their style.

• they have made so many modifications to their cabin over the years that none of the original material is still there, and there’s a constant debate at camp as to weather it’s still the same cabin.

cabin exterior

• the cabin has an industrial look, with a mix of metals like iron, copper, and steel. rivets, bolts, and exposed beams are prominent features.

• life-sized metal automatons, resembling ancient greek warriors and mythical creatures, stand guard at the entrance.

• they have created intricate metal sculptures that decorate the cabin’s exterior. these range from small, detailed pieces to larger, more abstract art.

• the entrance has large, reinforced double doors, that are automated.

• these doors swing open smoothly despite their weight.

• they have a pulley system for lifting heavy materials, a retractable awning for shade, and a mechanical clock tower that chimes periodically.

cabin interior

• the floor is covered in spare parts and tools that never get picked up (unless somebody wants to use them for something).

• they have underground bunkers for bedrooms.

• the walls are adorned with gears, cogs, and blueprints of various inventions. some of the gears are part of intricate mechanisms that move or serve as storage spaces.

• their cabin has several fire extinguishers and a state-of-the-art ventilation system to manage the smoke and fumes from the forges.

• emergency buttons are strategically placed around the cabin to shut down all machinery in case of accidents.

cabin traditions

• every month they hold a competition to see who can make a device that fits a certain theme.

• they’re judged by a panel of five consisting of the head counselors of hephaestus, athena, hecate, and a volunteer counselor, as well as chiron.

• each judge judges something different on a scale of 1-5: safety and usefulness, ease of use and functionality, utilization of magic, presentation/looks, and on-theme-ness. chiron calculates and delivers the final score, which is the total points given by the counselors.

• the winner receives a medal and bragging rights (until the next competition), as well as first pick when it comes to tools each morning.

• anyone in camp is allowed to participate (though it’s mostly just the hephaestus and athena kids) and contestants have a week to create their contraptions, during which they have access to all the tools and spare materials in the hephaestus workshop (and later bunker 9) that nobody has yet claimed (whether for the competition or not).

• the event is taken very seriously by everyone involved, and even athena and hephaestus have been known to show up from time to time to watch from the shadows, but they always watch from olympus.

divider by @anitalenia

[carefreecoffee]

❛ ━━･❪ Rainy day: Monoma Neito x reader ❫ ･━━ ❜

Word count: 808, Gender- Neutral reader

You and Neito had been walking along the sidewalk on your way back to the dorms from a dinner date in Musutafu, holding his umbrella over the both of you. His attention was completely on the city around him, watching the other passersby's and cars drive by. However, his attention changed when he noticed that you were not by his side anymore.

“Hey, where-“ he glanced back, noticing you playing in the rain like a gleeful child. A soft smile touched his lips. “Are you serious..” He muttered, walking towards you.

Neito stopped behind you, his boots getting a little wet from the puddles. He looked at you with a rather soft and fond expression. “What are you doing? You’re going to get your clothes wet in this rain.” He said in a fond tone, a small smirk dancing on his lips.

You look at him before sending a small smile his way. “It's fun! C'mon, join just a lil?” 

Neito chuckled, looking down to the wet pavement. “Join you in playing in the rain?” He said, lifting his eyebrows and tilting his head a little, as in a silent question to make sure that he heard it right. 

You grab his free hand into your slightly damp ones, “Mhm, just for a little. You can handle some rain, right?”

Neito chuckled again, his smirk widening a little. “I guess I could....” He would consider it childish if anyone else had offered, his reputation would be bruised if had been caught in such behaviors. But for you, he wouldn't resist. He closed his own umbrella, putting it away. “I hope you’re happy. I’m risking getting sick now.” He said teasingly, before he stepped a little closer, standing right in front of you under the rain.

He watched as your boots splashed upon the puddles, making him get a little bit more wet. He let out a small sigh, rolling his eyes. “I can’t believe I’m actually doing this.” He muttered, his clothes and hair getting a little wetter from the rain drops from above, his hand still holding onto your's gently.

Over the period of time, his hair had become completely soaked, damp clumps sticking to his forehead, the blond color darkened. You chuckle softly, looking atop his head. He glanced down to you, his eyes sparkling with warm amusement.

“What? What are you laughing at?” He asked with an arched eyebrow, his gaze following yours.

You reach a hand up, pushing his hair back. “Your hairs all screwed up, babe”

Neitos brows raised, watching as you reached up. His smirk returned once more as he couldn’t help but tease. “Really? Screwed up?” He said in a slightly cheeky tone. The damp, almost clinging hair fell back down over his forehead, a few strands sticking to his skin as soon as you retracted your hand. “Is it really so bad?”

You shake your head, “Looks good on you” 

He chuckled quietly, his gaze roaming slowly over your face, taking in the water droplets dripping down your lashes and skin. “I’m definitely going to get a cold now.. all because of you.” He muttered.

You grab the umbrella from his hand, holding it over you to cease the rain. You sling an arm over his neck, leaning in. “Gah, is the prince gonna catch a cold now? Pretty weak immune system you got there babe” 

Neito chuckled again, closing his eyes and letting out a small, mock-pained groan, as if complaining. “You’re so mean to me, love..” He said in an almost pouting tone, looking like a grumpy little child. He moved his arms around your waist, his hands resting low on your hips. “All I’m saying is that you better take care of me then.” He started with a smirk.

“Pft, okay my liege”

“Oh shut up.” He rolled his eyes playfully. He leaned closer to you, his eyes locked with yours, the familiar gray-blue shade with an amused sparkle.“I will have you know that I am a very pleasant patient.”

“Uh-huh” You hum, leaning your damp forehead on his.

He lifted one of his hands to touch your jaw gently, his thumb tracing softly over your chin. “You better believe me. I expect you to bring me soup when I get all sick and bedridden because of you.” He said in a playfully accusing tone, a smirk slowly appeared on his face.

You huff before nudging him back enough into the rain, taking the umbrella with you as you jogged off, leaving him to his dampened doom.

Neito’s eyes widened, gasping in surprise.. “Hey! Give that back!” He called after you, beginning into a sprint as his hair stuck to his forehead, water running down his face.

His boots splashed in the puddles, shouting over the pattering rain. “Get back here! You little thief, come back here!”

Safe to say, you both looked like wet dogs once you got back to the dorms.

[venbetta]

Night Light

Ven x Glam Freddy SFW Drabble (OC x Canon)

Beneath the cut

This tension was familiar to Ven, the way their blood froze at their heels as the heavy presence was upon them as they stood before their late master. His eyes probed her small frame, she remembered that horrible look he gave her when she spoiled the mission.

The clawed hand yanked her chin, and Ven gasped as her gaze was set on Ulysses, never having thought she would see him ever again. Not ever.

Despite their fear, Ven wriggled from his touch and recoiled, the demon stiffening from her defiance. The room shifted and flickered as Ven's legs pumped to escape from his deathly hold, Ulysses’ roaring for their return.

Not long after, his hard steps shook the ground beneath her as she ran through jello, slow and unwilling to move forward.

The corridor wobbled, and a door was barely in their grasp when a hand gagged them quiet.

A strained squeal uttered from her, kicking but met air. His piercing red glare tore through her, and just like his gaze, a dull searing pain gutted through her, Ven managed a horrible scream, clawing at his penetrated arm.

He struck her again, her torso bent and pulled, she could feel herself being split again, she expected to see gore but only for an inky substance to coat Ulysses’ forearm as he dug into her flesh. Flailing, Ven incoherently begged, even though there was no ounce of contrite in that demon's face…

Ven still had the robust to wail, only for the hall to close in on them. Or her own vision closing in, as she managed another shriek.

The air was dry in the room and Ven had become shrill, clambering upwards in a panic and grabbing for… something. She wasn't sure what. But a hard, yet warm pair of arms gathered her back and that baritone coaxed into her ears, melting away the cries.

“You are safe– you are fine...” He ushered, “I am here.”

Ven darted her eyes, seeking the demon that had her in the shadows of the space. I'm looking for those red dots that bored her. She fell to the foot of the bed, finding nothing but her and the mascot’s feet partially buried beneath the covers. The weight of the bed was heavy, that being due to having a large robot in the bed…

A rattling exhale leaves them, mimicking chills, but she was hardly cold. The room was dim, hardly lit by the moonlight leaking in through the shades, yet the artificial glow of Freddy's eyes created the effect of a night light. Something Ven never knew she needed again, believing them to be childish after having given them up for that reason… and most nights, she regretted getting rid of it.

“Everything is alright. Settle your breathing.” Freddy nudged into her temple, feeling her staggered breaths against his metal frame. The way her heart was racing, he would have believed she had run a marathon. Their body was still trembling.

“Breathe…”

Ven couldn't breathe, not properly, when her systems were overwhelmed with a terrible prickling sensation in her legs and a cramp seizing up her abdomen. Her eyes clamped shut, and she buried into Freddy's chest, trying to swallow any sound that left. Freddy felt her body flinch, and a wobble took over her throat. The imp shook as she unwounded in his arms.

“H…He kill– he killed me– he killed me a-again…” Ven gasped, in a horrible breathing state, “I was…he had me–”

Freddy wavered, “You are safe now. You are here.” Ven shook their head, but Freddy just held on.

He caught her instability, stroking her shoulders and lowering his palm to her navel. The pain was almost a phantom, Ven whirring from his touch, but Freddy didn't retract it. He kept it there. A soothing heat overtakes his palm, and he rests it there for her.

The room remained quiet with Ven weeping and gulping for air, Freddy's voice occasionally uttering solace. Eventually, Freddy rests Ven on top of his chest, letting them soak their tears against his metal exterior. His systems picked up her deescalating heart, and what was once a constantly thump became a legato beat. Sniffles were lessening, and ultimately, Ven became subdued…

“Do you want to talk about it?” Freddy asked gently, his voice vibrating his frame. Ven quietly shook their head, reduced to silence now. A sigh leaves him, resting his hand on her backside.

“I understand… When you wish to, I will be here to listen.”

Ven doesn't respond, only shifting to rest comfortably against him. Freddy noted the rise in her abdomen, unsure he wanted to mention this symptom; he recognized their cycle patterns, and it appeared that it was coming soon. Instead, he kept it to himself, not wanting to burden them with this right now. Their exhaustion was prevalent, and he just wanted them to rest.

“Let me know if this is comfortable, I do not mind moving if you aren't.”

After some shuffling and getting settled, Ven rested on their side, pressing their back to the bear's front. Freddy returned his hand to her navel, hoping to soothe the pain that haunted her. Before long, he heard deep, elongated breathing, and Ven was fast asleep.

All he could do was press into her tighter…

_________

[dhddmods]

Some new varsex terms!

(Please read and reblog our intersex guide, by the way! Its important to educate yourself and spread awareness!)

Neurosex

Neurosex: A term describing a varsex person whose neurodivergence is linked to their sex in some way. This could be an altersex person who feels as though their sex identity is directly correlated to neurodivergence, or an intersex person whose variation caused neurodivergence.

A few examples include the following:

-An intersex person with a chromosomal variation, and the chromosomes caused a developmental condition as well as their sex-traits.

-An intersex person with hypergonadism/hypogonadism or otherwise atypical-levels of hormones, who experiences a mood disorder or sexual disorder as a result.

-An altersex person who experiences sex-repulsion as a result of their neurodivergence, and identifies on the sexless spectrum because of that (such as desiring for their genitals or reproductive organs to be removed, so that sexual urges will dissipate.)

-An altersex person who feels as though they are xenosex due to one of their hyperfixations/special-interests, and desire to have sex traits relating to that interest.

-A system that is nonhuman-heavy, and desires for their shared body to be mythicsex as a result.

This term was requested by a user that wishes to remain anonymous.

The colors of the flag are taken from the neurodivergent flag. It takes the format of the varsex flag. The neurodivergent infinity symbol is also present.

___________

Invisiex, Invisigenital, Invisifluid, & Invisixenive

Invisiex: An altersex term, describing someone that desires one or more of their sex traits to be invisible, either solely to other people or to themself as well. When referring specifically to genitals, the term Invisigenital is used instead.

Invisifluid is used to describe someone that desires the ability to turn one or more of their sex traits invisible at will.

Invisixenive: An altersex term, describing someone that desires for their gonads or reproductive organs to be invisible, or to turn invisible at will. This generally refers to people with descended testes/ovotestes, however it could also apply to non-humans within systems, whose innerworld body is see-through in some way, or otherwise visible by outsiders, and they wish they could hide it.

Invisiex, invisifluid, and invisixenive is not the same as desiring retractable genitals, as the terms morphisex and morphixenive would be used instead.

The invisiex & invisigenital flag uses shades of bluish-grey to symbolize different levels of visibility.

The invisifluid flag follows a similar format to the invisiex flag, except bottom half of the flag inverts the top half, representing fluidity. There are also arrows within the altersex symbol to represent fluidity as well.

The invisixenive flag follows the theme of the other transreproductive flags.

___________

Objectex, Objenital, & Objectoxenive/Obxenive

Objectex: An altersex term, describing someone that desires one or more of their sex traits to be objects or object-like. For example, a person that desires a sex-toy in place of their genitals, or somebody that desires an inflatable chest. When referring specifically to genitals, the term Objenital is used instead. Cyberex and machinex might be considered subsets of this.

Objectoxenive: An altersex term, describing someone that desires for their gonads or reproductive organs to be objects or object-like. For example, a person that desires a toy uterus. Technoxenive might be considered a subset of this.

The objectex & objenital flag uses yellow to represent childhood-themed objects, brownish-yellow to represent adult-themed objects, dark green to represent objects formed through nature, brown is for culturally-themed objects, black is for non-tangible objects, and the white sparkle is for fictional objects.

The objectoxenive/obxenive flag follows the same theme as the other transreproductive flags. The teddybear represents childhood-themed objects/toys. The sparkler represents holiday-themed objects. The pot represents decorative objects. The couch represents furniture. The moon, star, sun, and planet represent space-themed objects. The buildings represent construction and location-based or cultural-based objects. The screw, nut, gear, telephone, and screen represent technology. The rocks and plant represents nature-based objects. The paper, paintbrush, and pencil represent art. The arrow represents weaponry. It also uses similar symbols to the luduace flag, to represent adult-themed objects.

___________

Xenochest: An altersex term, describing someone that desires a chest/breasts and/or nipples that are "unusual." (For example, desiring a chest made of clouds.)

The flag goes along with the xenophallus & xenoyoni flags and the xenoclitoris & xenovulva flags. A symbol meant to represent a chest is atop the altersex symbol.

[hatefueled]

very specific cyborg anatomy related thoughts. because... i love cyborgs. and this is all universal tbh. like it's not just hsr exclusive-

yes, his feet are boots. yes, the spurs are retractable.

all of his front panels ( the silver ones ) can come off. but they're only to be removed for more intensive repairs, and upkeep. like cleaning, or patching something that may of come loose or been damaged. he only trusts himself to do this, or people he is very close to, and trusts enough to not damage anything in there.

his organs. if youd like to call them that... are pretty close replicas. though almost none of them do what you'd expect of each one their mimicking. everything is built to be durable, to last. fascinatingly enough, the woman who made his body- used his actual flesh and blood to craft these synthetic replacements. so while much of it is non organic, it's based out of organic material and tissue. all of his organs are colored gunmetal greys, blacks, and varying shades of dark, dark blue.

his blood is a thick viscous dark blue.

can he feel them? yeah. but it's not painful? because he doesn't really have pain nerves that can act on their own. not without the sensory systems triggering them so he's aware of damage to his body. oof it's all very. complicated.

his "stomach" is an omni synthesizer. it's what allows him to transform materials into fuel, into ammunition. it's all an involuntary, and seamless process. something you'd be unlikely to notice ( and it doesn't cause him discomfort ).

he can. detach his upper and lower half. at the waist.

there is a special system in place for cooling AND heating! his body was made with all sorts of environments in mind. as well as venting systems to let out excess steam / expel water. honestly, all the neat little additions for specifically this? kind of deserve their own post. considering the intent behind his body- it makes sense it was given ways to survive many extremes.

so yeah man, he can take baths! and showers! he's so heavy though he unfortunately can't swim all that well.

[earthideasout]

The Ultimate Guide to Houston Awning Systems: Outdoor Shade Bliss

Houston Awning Systems play pivotal roles in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. Awnings are versatile coverings primarily used to offer shade, while sunscreens provide protection against harmful UV rays.

[vlad-theimplier]

WIP Wednesday: Custos Custodium

This week marks an exciting new direction for the story, and indeed the series: after Jensen succumbed to the Orchid, our focus shifts to Daniel "Smiley" Fletcher. Will he rise to the occasion and win the battles Jensen could not? Will he get the girl, and/or realize she's an enemy plant? Will he absolutely serve in his new suit? All this and more awaits you here, dear reader.

Nah, Jensen's mostly fine, and now he has a whole installation to investigate. Too bad his pilot's a traitor--if only he knew another one...

It was the cold that woke him. A score of icy daggers pierced his chest and back, sapping his strength but unpleasant enough to rouse his mind. He prised his gummy eyelids open and blinked. His eye sockets ached. So did everything else.

With a stifled groan, Jensen lifted his head and looked around. Walls of rock and ice surrounded him where he lay in a narrow gulch carpeted in snow. A security ladder, its stringers collapsed together, rose in black and yellow stripes up one wall; a normal ladder led to a platform on the other amidst silos and compressed-gas cylinders. He was half-buried at the bottom of a mound of—he grimaced as he realized—corpses, frozen stiff where they’d been dumped. Dumped? Yes, definitely dumped. They were all lined up roughly parallel to the higher, currently inaccessible platform. Probably tossed by a pair of the Gold Masks, one by one. At least they’d insulated him a little.

Artificial joints aching in an unfamiliar way, he gathered himself and tried to stand, but he only managed to drag himself a foot or so out from the pile, into the fresh snow. His energy display read flat and dismal crimson: all out. He’d probably burned it all running his heaters. Fortunately, he had that pair of biocells. With fingers even more nerveless than usual, he fumbled one out and plugged it in. The rush of power let him plug in the other one and stand clumsily, the cold ache at his shoulders and phantom knees already beginning to ease.

The ladder was clearly the best route out. He knew the model: when activated, the stringers would separate, the rungs locking into place between them, and his remote-hacking suite should be able to reach the controls at the top. But when he tried it, his software threw an array of errors. He wondered whether the Orchid was still wreaking havoc on his body. He wondered how he’d survived. Chalk up another one for the good old Sentinel, presumably.

He clawed his way up the regular ladder to the platform by the silos. None of the controls there seemed helpful, or even active, but he laboriously scrambled across some of the pipes that bridged the gulch until he could hook his fingertips on the edge of the higher platform and pull himself up. Thankfully, he found a door, a red-bordered employee access like the other. He hacked it with care, awkwardly positioned to one side, but no one burst through and stabbed him this time. It let into a hallway lined with lockers, several hanging open to display cold-weather gear.

Jensen slumped against the wall as the door closed, relieved to be out of the cold and wind, and checked himself over. The injector was still stuck in his leg. He pulled it out, fiddled with it until the needle retracted, and pocketed it for possible later study. His limbs responded to his commands, as did his shades, but the remote hack system still fuzzed with errors. His blades stuttered and jerked as they emerged. The Tesla readied itself happily enough, but its targeting laser was on the fritz. The dart launcher, on the other hand, seemed wholly unaffected, but he wouldn’t rely on it without some practice under his belt.

Munching on an energy bar and watching his energy readout, he thought his bioconverter was acting sluggish, too. But smart vision worked fine, and once he had the energy to venture a cloak, it coöperated. His attempted Icarus dash was a feeble letdown, though. He hoped the aug would keep him from splattering himself if he fell.

They’d left him his weapons and grenades: the Destrier in its shoulder holster, the Sanction mag-locked to his lower back, the tranq rifle in its own bespoke holster and pockets. He hadn’t bothered with the Zap, thinking it superfluous to the Tesla—a choice he regretted, now. His ammo seemed untouched. His vest had held up to Marchenko’s sucker-punch, the aramid taking a few percent off its power before it rattled his ceramic plates against his ribs. He supposed he should be glad Marchenko had used the arm that was mostly flesh.

He bowed his head and struggled to dredge clarity from the mélange of images he hadn’t processed as he choked on his tongue and tried to scream his lungs out of his own chest. Someone had carried him through bare metal corridors. Shouldn’t there be more blood? Rucker was covered in it, he remembered hearing in a distorted voice. Perhaps one of the Gold Masks.

Rucker had more meat in him than this one. Maybe that’s the difference. That had been Marchenko, he thought, the voice close enough he’d probably been over the giant’s shoulder. Broken, like that drone in Útulek. It had been hard to focus.

But you’re sure he’ll die?

The Orchid has no mercy. His end will come. It will be slow. And it will be painful. Just time enough for a man to think on his sins.

Then his heart had stopped. The Sentinel had whined and kicked it back into shuddering motion, its sound drowned out by the conversation. Things had gotten even hazier at that point, though.

… the facility is compromised. We should…

… warned that this one was coming. We have time…

… friends from ARC?

The appeasers, Rucker’s clique? Those fools have… with the Orchid. Dump the bodies with this one. He’d hit the deck, hard, head bouncing limp from metal plates, stunned on top of the whiteout agony into missing most of what followed.

He’d squinted against the pain, behind his lenses, and focused enough to hear … stay here and proceed as planned?

Yes, Brown confirmed everything with Picus last night. Date and time.

Then heavy footsteps clomping away, while he’d slid on his back, flickering in and out of consciousness. He’d woken up a bit when the cold air hit, and a distorted voice had said, End of the line for you, friend. Then he’d flown, and fallen, and it had been lights out for real.

[komorim]

you who is so dear

-> itoshi sae x gn!reader

[ synopsis. ] with so much on your plate, your health was the last thing on your mind. and even when you started feeling unwell, you decided to push through. however, your boyfriend wasn’t so okay with this problem solving method of yours

[ content warnings. ] none. (can you believe it??)

[ word count. ] 1k

[ author’s note. ] (new layout!) wow. my first non-angst fic. this is such a huge milestone honestly :x this was also super self-indulgent. i’ve been getting sick a lot recently though it’s nothing unusual (i have a terrible immune system) so this just kinda made me feel better i suppose.

“i’m home!”

you groan a bit, both as a response to your boyfriend’s greeting and as something to convey your current state.

you can almost hear the furrow of his eyebrows when he speaks, “what’s wrong?”

you’re hyper focused on the laptop in front of you, and in the dim light, the white light spreads across your face, painting your face a sickly shade. you keep typing on the keyboard and hear the soft footsteps of your boyfriend approach you slowly. yet you still don’t turn around or pause the work on your hands.

sae stands beside you and leans down a bit to stare at your screen, only to find that you’ve been cranking out an incredibly long essay for class. the crease between his eyebrows deepens as he captures your hands that continued to dance across the keyboard in an attempt to stop you. however, you only whine and slip your hands out of his larger ones to continue typing.

sae obviously did not like this behavior of yours. he grabs the back of your laptop and closes it slowly, giving you a bit of time to react and pull your hands away. it was this motion that finally allowed him to see your beautiful, yet distraught features, as you look up at him.

“please, sae,” you softly groan, “i have to finish this.”

he ignores your comment, and the tension between his eyebrows doesn’t let up as he looks at you. “you don’t look well.”

you run a hand through your hair, “uh,” now that you have a bit of a breather, you realize that you were indeed not feeling that good, “maybe i don’t feel the best. but it’s not a big deal.”

he brings an arm up and presses the back of his hand against your forehead softly. you notice how concern and worry fill his eyes as he retracts his hand.

“you’re burning, y/n.”

you raise a hand of your own to confirm his words, and when your hand comes into contact with your forehead, your eyes widen in surprise.

“whoa. i am hot. i thought that warm feeling was just a headache. i didn’t expect it to be my actual body temperature.”

“i can’t believe you got sick again. you’re such a dumbass, you know? who gets sick every week?”

your figure grows impossibly smaller, sinking into the couch even more as you listen to him scold you. “me,” you respond quietly.

“yes, you. only someone as irresponsible as you,” sae stands straight and heads for the medicine cabinet, “have you been taking your pills?”

“what pills?”

you hear the irritation in his voice as he replies. he’s probably filled with annoyance right now. he always hated it when you don’t take care of yourself.

“what do you mean what pills?” sae scoffs, shocked that you don’t remember, “the supplements the doctor gave you last time. you know, to help with your immune system?”

“ohh…i don’t remember if i did, if i’m honest.”

you hear sae counting something in the back, probably trying to figure out if you have taken your pills or not. “well, you haven’t. you forgot two doses.”

he pours a glass of warm water and grabs your supplements. walking over to the cabinet, he reached for the bottle of fever medicine before walking back towards you. “i seriously don’t understand how you survived this long. with your character, i wouldn’t be surprised if you died three years ago.”

“hey, i take care of myself just fine.” sae gives you a pointed look and your confidence decreases a bit. “well, that’s why i have you,” you joke, hoping to soothe his irritation a bit. you look up at sae as he stands over you, giving him a loving smile.

he passes you the bottles of pills and you take them. he sets the glass of water on the table in front of you.

“you’re such a nuisance,” he responds. and although his words are harsh, you know he doesn’t mean it genuinely.

“oh, but you love me.”

a slight tint appears on the tips of his ears, and even though that’s enough to give him away, you still play ignorant when he opens his mouth to deny your statement.

“just eat your medicine,” sae responds. after he watches you down pills after pills, he grabs your laptop. “come on now, go to sleep. it’s late.”

“but i didn’t finish yet. this thing-”

“i’ll finish it for you. get your rest. it’s more important right now.”

“but-”

before you can finish your sentence, sae grabs your wrist before gently dragging you after him as he heads for your bedroom. as you trail behind him, you smell the clean scent of his soap and you automatically start feeling better already. after all, you’re in the company of someone who loves you so much.

sae ushers you into the comfort of your shared bed, and he proceeds to tuck you in. “i’ll work in bed right next to you, so you don’t have to worry. just go to sleep first. i’ll finish pretty quickly.”

he climbs into the bed next to you, and you move over a bit so you can lean into his body heat. he moves closer to you in response as well. he begins typing on your keyboard and speaks without breaking his focus. “your only job right now is to get better, okay? can’t have my s/o getting sick all the time, now, can i?”

you pull the blanket underneath your eyes and you stare at his profile. “i love you,” you say.

and even if you always wish for him to say it back, you know he wouldn’t. he’s just like that. he turns to look down at you and replies with his usual, “i know,” reaching a hand to comb through your hair. the corners of his lips tug up slightly, smiling at your confession as if it was the first.

you feel your eyes droop as they struggle to stay open. and eventually, you fall asleep to the sound of sae typing on the keyboard.

a sound that proves he loves you too.

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