I have a Magic system based on experimentation using elemental crystals with basic abilities. In this word there are six elements Fire, Earth, Water, Wind, Light & Shadow. You can find crystals in the individual elements or in combination, combination crystals are rarer than single and the more elements that are in it the less common they are. For each Single and combination my goal is to have 8 abilities. The goal of this system is to make equipment and enhance individuals by combining different crystals. They also come in 4 lvls of rarity, Common, Uncommon, Rare & Unique, as well as 5 sizes, Dust, Chip, Chunk, Clump & Crystal. They can also be paired with organs from different creatures but that is far beyond where I am now.
Fire: -Control (Pyro-kinesis) -Radiance (Radiates Heat) -Absorption (Absorbs and Nullifies Heat) -Emission (Emits Fire) -Conduction (Absorbs, Stores & Releases Heat) -Combustion (Explodes) -Creation (Creates a Spirit When Placed in Fire) -Infernal (Releases Bursts of Infernal Heat) -Still missing
Water: -Absorption (Absorption and Destroys Water) -Production (Produces Water) -Creation (Creates a Spirit When Placed in Water) -Conduction (Absorbs, Stores & Releases Water) -Restoration (Produces Healing Water) -Control (Hyrdo-kinesis) -Monsoon (Mass Burst Release of Water) -Arctic (Bursts of Massive Cooling)
Earth: -Control (Terra-kinesis) -Creation (Creates a Spirit When placed in Earth) -Densis (Increases Density) -Levius (Decreases Density) -Petrification (Turns Flesh to Stone and Stone to Flesh -Meld (Melds with Earth) -Gravitron (Increases Gravity Around it) -Gravities (Decreases Gravity Around it)
Air: -Control (Aero-kinesis) -Production (Produces Air) -Creation (Creates a Spirit When Placed in Air) -Absorption (Absorbs Air) -Densis (Increases Air Density Around it) -Soniss (Transmits Sound Between Pieces of Itelf) -Still Missing -Still Missing
Light: -Emission (Emits light) -Purification (Cures) -Solidification (Solidifies Light) -Creation (Creates a Spirit When Placed in Light) -Radiance (Flashes) -Quicken (Increases Speed) -Meld (Warps Light around it) -Still Missing
Shadow: -Projection (Projects Shadow Around it) -Mutation (Creates a Spirit When Placed in Another Spirit or a Corpse) -Solidification (Solidifies Shadow) -Control (Umbra-kinesis) -Still Missing -Still Missing -Still Missing -Still Missing
Bonus Shadow: -The Void (Absorbs Magic Power)
Bonus All (All Same Crystal, Can be Used as Any): -The Gift (Eternal Youth When Placed in Someone) -The Seed (Creates a Biome Around it Based on it’s Elements) -The Spark (Used to Start the Ascension)

Mainly I'm looking for ideas from books or other sources, though I don't think that combat-magic would fit with my setting.
The plot so far is that two young men are wandering around, learning about the world, and maybe there's a purpose to it that MC doesn't know about. My current focus for the magic is the mage that's traveling with my MC; he's still young, and I want to have him limited in how much and what sort of magic he can do. There are a lot of "barely can do anything" mages, a good number of mages at around his level or a bit better, and it's rare to have a mage that can solve a bunch of problems with magic instead of mundane means.
This is what I think the system is like sofar, but I'm open for tweaking things to let the magic feel a bit more magical/useful instead of a type of science we don't have access to.
In this setting I want to make it so that for most people, trying to learn magic wouldn't be worth it even if they knew they wouldn't wash out of training. Sort of "you trained for ten years so you could light something on fire with magic instead of carrying a Zippo? You still need a piece of jewelry or that special ink." (An exaggeration, but mages do need to keep trying to find new spells as technology supplants them. Someone who could light a fire could do a lot of other things with access to the right spells.) Being able to cast magic without a spell diagram is freakishly rare.
A mage could either train for energy-capacity, knowledge, or a balance of both. A journeyman in energy-capacity with low-knowledge could activate only prepared spells. (A bit like how in Legend of Korra, they had lightning-benders channeling into the power-grid.) I don't want untrained mundanes to be able to activate magical objects, but I want it to be rare for people to be completely unable to train in magic. I'm thinking that "enchantments" where the spell runs on its own doesn't happen, but possibly an artificially-imposed limit; having an artifact gather additional magic so a caster only has to channel a small amount of the spell's required energy might be possible.
Sofar my ideas are:

• energy-conversion: The aether is a source of limitless magical energy, the limit is in how much the mage can channel. They could move heat into or out of an object or area, or turn aether energy into light. They haven't figured out how to really control electricity, and converting any energy into movement requires a bit more advancement in science. (Steam-engines are new.)
• element manipulation: limited to the atomic level, they could turn water into flammable gas but not lead into gold. Maybe someone could turn a rock into sand and then reform it into a quartz crystal, but that should be hard.
• teleportation magic: I'm still trying to figure out how it works, but it takes training to open an existing gate and only a master in both energy-capacity and knowledge could create a new one. (Basically make gate-travel expensive enough that most goods are still moved by barge.) Related would be some sort of magical cellphone that I'm still deciding how hard it is to use, and the possibility of having portable access to a dimensional pocket like a bag of holding. (I want creation of these things to be very expensive to keep them rare.)
• illusion magic: I'm thinking that being able to shape light requires specialized mental training to hone their ability to visualize what they want. A blank surface or an image baked into the spell-diagram is easier.
• Healing should be obscenely difficult to do, as in very few people have the training to not make things worse.

What I think I don't want:

• I don't want magic that directly affects thoughts, manipulates time, or see into unknown locations.
• I don't want resurrection to be possible. Trapping or releasing souls should be complicated so killing someone is easier to do with mundane methods.
• I don't want to create the illusion of sentience or animate something that should not be able to move on its own. (An artifact that looks like it could play chess is some sort of mechanical turk contraption and might need more advanced technology to be puppeted remotely with magic. At that point technology might just be a few years away from radio-control.)
• I don't think I want to make things fly unless science says it can fly.

Everything in my inventory is up for trade. The most valuable items are listed here, the rest you can find in My Inventory

Feel free to Add Me or even better send a Trade Offer. Open for any suggestions: upgrades, downgrades / knives, gloves, skins / stickers, patterns, floats.

All Buyouts are listed in cash value.

KNIVES

★ Butterfly Knife Lore (Factory New), B/O: $7194.77

★ Butterfly Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2025.74

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★ M9 Bayonet Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $557.87

★ M9 Bayonet Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $529.41

★ M9 Bayonet Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $465.39

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★ Talon Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $1295.27

★ Bayonet Tiger Tooth (Minimal Wear), B/O: $746.28

★ Karambit Bright Water (Field-Tested), B/O: $688.15

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★ Flip Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $547.93

★ Flip Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $476.69

★ Flip Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $278.18

★ Flip Knife Black Laminate (Well-Worn), B/O: $258.83

★ Flip Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $181.64

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★ Stiletto Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $686.04

★ Stiletto Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $665.41

★ Stiletto Knife, B/O: $601.39

★ Stiletto Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $418.25

★ Stiletto Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $227.80

★ Stiletto Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.96

★ Stiletto Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $192.79

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★ Nomad Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $518.11

★ Nomad Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $169.78

★ Nomad Knife Forest DDPAT (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $166.88

★ StatTrak™ Nomad Knife Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $335.79

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★ Skeleton Knife Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $442.05

★ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Minimal Wear), B/O: $426.24

★ Skeleton Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $314.03

★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2361.28

★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $376.53

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★ Ursus Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $557.12

★ Ursus Knife, B/O: $471.42

★ Ursus Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $212.37

★ Ursus Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $187.66

★ Ursus Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $178.18

★ Ursus Knife Ultraviolet (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $155.13

★ Ursus Knife Boreal Forest (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.26

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★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Minimal Wear), B/O: $204.83

★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Field-Tested), B/O: $184.50

★ StatTrak™ Huntsman Knife Lore (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $224.11

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★ Bowie Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $2142.02

★ Bowie Knife, B/O: $230.44

★ Bowie Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $209.20

★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.51

★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03

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★ Falchion Knife Night (Field-Tested), B/O: $132.54

★ Falchion Knife Urban Masked (Well-Worn), B/O: $112.81

★ Falchion Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $108.81

★ Falchion Knife Forest DDPAT (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.82

★ Falchion Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.46

★ StatTrak™ Falchion Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $143.08

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★ Paracord Knife Crimson Web (Minimal Wear), B/O: $486.48

★ Paracord Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $163.12

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★ Survival Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $138.26

★ Survival Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03

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★ Gut Knife Sapphire (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1127.79

★ Gut Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $286.17

★ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $246.55

★ Gut Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $240.77

★ Gut Knife, B/O: $210.49

★ Gut Knife Lore (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.22

★ Gut Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $151.51

★ Gut Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.94

★ Gut Knife Rust Coat (Well-Worn), B/O: $118.99

★ Gut Knife Boreal Forest (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.80

★ StatTrak™ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $237.96

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★ Shadow Daggers Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $264.92

★ Shadow Daggers Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $253.03

★ Shadow Daggers Tiger Tooth (Factory New), B/O: $237.22

★ Shadow Daggers Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.40

★ Shadow Daggers Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $144.42

★ Shadow Daggers Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $105.20

★ StatTrak™ Shadow Daggers Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $150.46

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★ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $365.99

★ Navaja Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $228.93

★ Navaja Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $227.43

★ Navaja Knife Slaughter (Factory New), B/O: $209.06

★ Navaja Knife, B/O: $203.16

★ Navaja Knife Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $132.57

★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $121.69

★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.95

★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $100.41

★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $369.01

★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $109.95

GLOVES

★ Sport Gloves Amphibious (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2394.67

★ Sport Gloves Omega (Well-Worn), B/O: $572.33

★ Sport Gloves Bronze Morph (Minimal Wear), B/O: $338.88

★ Sport Gloves Big Game (Field-Tested), B/O: $323.66

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★ Specialist Gloves Marble Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1652.07

★ Specialist Gloves Tiger Strike (Field-Tested), B/O: $599.14

★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Web (Well-Worn), B/O: $231.57

★ Specialist Gloves Buckshot (Minimal Wear), B/O: $126.21

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★ Moto Gloves POW! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $996.99

★ Moto Gloves POW! (Field-Tested), B/O: $383.31

★ Moto Gloves POW! (Well-Worn), B/O: $276.00

★ Moto Gloves Turtle (Field-Tested), B/O: $180.28

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★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $502.29

★ Hand Wraps Giraffe (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.73

★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $178.32

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★ Driver Gloves Queen Jaguar (Minimal Wear), B/O: $181.01

★ Driver Gloves Rezan the Red (Field-Tested), B/O: $101.66

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★ Broken Fang Gloves Jade (Field-Tested), B/O: $127.88

★ Broken Fang Gloves Needle Point (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.55

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★ Bloodhound Gloves Guerrilla (Minimal Wear), B/O: $127.94

★ Hydra Gloves Case Hardened (Field-Tested), B/O: $102.55

WEAPONS

AK-47 X-Ray (Well-Worn), B/O: $478.95

AUG Hot Rod (Factory New), B/O: $425.83

StatTrak™ M4A1-S Hyper Beast (Factory New), B/O: $413.95

M4A4 Daybreak (Factory New), B/O: $309.51

StatTrak™ AK-47 Aquamarine Revenge (Factory New), B/O: $305.43

AK-47 Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $196.38

StatTrak™ M4A4 Temukau (Minimal Wear), B/O: $174.64

P90 Run and Hide (Field-Tested), B/O: $167.03

AWP Asiimov (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.33

Souvenir SSG 08 Death Strike (Minimal Wear), B/O: $140.00

M4A1-S Printstream (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.70

StatTrak™ M4A1-S Golden Coil (Field-Tested), B/O: $117.48

AWP Asiimov (Well-Worn), B/O: $115.97

StatTrak™ Desert Eagle Printstream (Minimal Wear), B/O: $112.96

StatTrak™ AK-47 Asiimov (Minimal Wear), B/O: $110.85

Souvenir M4A1-S Master Piece (Well-Worn), B/O: $102.42

AK-47 Bloodsport (Minimal Wear), B/O: $100.53

Trade Offer Link - Steam Profile Link - My Inventory

Knives - Bowie Knife, Butterfly Knife, Falchion Knife, Flip Knife, Gut Knife, Huntsman Knife, M9 Bayonet, Bayonet, Karambit, Shadow Daggers, Stiletto Knife, Ursus Knife, Navaja Knife, Talon Knife, Classic Knife, Paracord Knife, Survival Knife, Nomad Knife, Skeleton Knife, Patterns - Gamma Doppler, Doppler (Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3, Phase 4, Black Pearl, Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald), Crimson Web, Lore, Fade, Ultraviolet, Night, Marble Fade (Fire & Ice, Fake FI), Case Hardened (Blue Gem), Autotronic, Slaughter, Black Laminate, Tiger Tooth, Boreal Forest, Scorched, Blue Steel, Vanilla, Damascus Steel, Forest DDPAT, Urban Masked, Freehand, Stained, Bright Water, Safari Mesh, Rust Coat, Gloves - Bloodhound Gloves (Charred, Snakebite, Guerrilla, Bronzed), Driver Gloves (Snow Leopard, King Snake, Crimson Weave, Imperial Plaid, Black Tie, Lunar Weave, Diamondback, Rezan the Red, Overtake, Queen Jaguar, Convoy, Racing Green), Hand Wraps (Cobalt Skulls, CAUTION!, Overprint, Slaughter, Leather, Giraffe, Badlands, Spruce DDPAT, Arboreal, Constrictor, Desert Shamagh, Duct Tape), Moto Gloves (Spearmint, POW!, Cool Mint, Smoke Out, Finish Line, Polygon, Blood Pressure, Turtle, Boom!, Eclipse, 3rd Commando Company, Transport), Specialist Gloves (Crimson Kimono, Tiger Strike, Emerald Web, Field Agent, Marble Fade, Fade, Foundation, Lt. Commander, Crimson Web, Mogul, Forest DDPAT, Buckshot), Sport Gloves (Pandora's Box, Superconductor, Hedge Maze, Vice, Amphibious, Slingshot, Omega, Arid, Big Game, Nocts, Scarlet Shamagh, Bronze Morph), Hydra Gloves (Case Hardened, Emerald, Rattler, Mangrove), Broken Fang Gloves (Jade, Yellow-banded, Unhinged, Needle Point), Pistols - P2000 (Wicked Sick, Ocean Foam, Fire Element, Amber Fade, Corticera, Chainmail, Imperial Dragon, Obsidian, Scorpion, Handgun, Acid Etched), USP-S (Printstream, Kill Confirmed, Whiteout, Road Rash, Owergrowth, The Traitor, Neo-Noir, Dark Water, Orion, Blueprint, Stainless, Caiman, Serum, Monster Mashup, Royal Blue, Ancient Visions, Cortex, Orange Anolis, Ticket To Hell, Black Lotus, Cyrex, Check Engine, Guardian, Purple DDPAT, Torque, Blood Tiger, Flashback, Business Class, Pathfinder, Para Green), Lead Conduit, Glock-18 (Ramese's Reach, Umbral Rabbit, Fade, Candy Apple, Bullet Queen, Synth Leaf, Neo-Noir, Nuclear Garden, Dragon Tatto, Reactor, Pink DDPAT, Twilight Galaxy, Sand Dune, Groundwater, Blue Fissure, Snack Attack, Water Elemental, Brass, Wasteland Rebel, Vogue, Franklin, Royal Legion, Gamma Doppler, Weasel, Steel Disruption, Ironwork, Grinder, High Beam, Moonrise, Oxide Blaze, Bunsen Burner, Clear Polymer, Bunsen Burner, Night), P250 (Apep's Curse, Re.built, Nuclear Threat, Modern Hunter, Splash, Whiteout, Vino Primo, Mehndi, Asiimov, Visions, Undertow, Cartel, See Ya Later, Gunsmoke, Splash, Digital Architect, Muertos, Red Rock, Bengal Tiger, Crimson Kimono, Wingshot, Metallic DDPAT, Hive, Dark Filigree, Mint Kimono), Five-Seven (Neon Kimono, Berries And Cherries, Fall Hazard, Crimson Blossom, Hyper Beast, Nitro, Fairy Tale, Case Hardened, Copper Galaxy, Angry Mob, Monkey Business, Fowl Play, Anodized Gunmetal, Hot Shot, Retrobution, Boost Protocol), CZ75-Auto (Chalice, Crimson Web, Emerald Quartz, The Fuschia is Now, Nitro, Xiangliu, Yellow Jacket, Victoria, Poison Dart, Syndicate, Eco, Hexane, Pole, Tigris), Tec-9 (Mummy's Rot, Rebel, Terrace, Nuclear Threat, Hades, Rust Leaf, Decimator, Blast From, Orange Murano, Toxic, Fuel Injector, Remote Control, Bamboo Forest, Isaac, Avalanche, Brother, Re-Entry, Blue Titanium, Bamboozle), R8 Revolver (Banana Cannon, Fade, Blaze, Crimson Web, Liama Cannon, Crazy 8, Reboot, Canal Spray, Night, Amber Fade), Desert Eagle (Blaze, Hand Cannon, Fennec Fox, Sunset Storm, Emerald Jörmungandr, Pilot, Hypnotic, Golden Koi, Printstream, Cobalt Disruption, Code Red, Ocean Drive, Midnight Storm, Kumicho Dragon, Crimson Web, Heirloom, Night Heist, Mecha Industries, Night, Conspiracy, Trigger Discipline, Naga, Directive, Light Rail), Dual Berettas (Flora Carnivora, Duelist, Cobra Strike, Black Limba, Emerald, Hemoglobin, Twin Turbo, Marina, Melondrama, Pyre, Retribution, Briar, Dezastre, Royal Consorts, Urban Shock, Dualing Dragons, Panther, Balance), Rifles - Galil (Aqua Terrace, Winter Forest, Chatterbox, Sugar Rush, Pheonix Blacklight, CAUTION!, Orange DDPAT, Cerberus, Dusk Ruins, Eco, Chromatic Aberration, Stone Cold, Tuxedo, Sandstorm, Shattered, Urban Rubble, Rocket Pop, Kami, Crimson Tsunami, Connexion), SCAR-20 (Fragments, Brass, Cyrex, Palm, Splash Jam, Cardiac, Emerald, Crimson Web, Magna Carta, Stone Mosaico, Bloodsport, Enforcer), AWP (Black Nile, Duality, Gungnir, Dragon Lore, Prince, Medusa, Desert Hydra, Fade, Lightning Strike, Oni Taiji, Silk Tiger, Graphite, Chromatic Aberration, Asiimov, Snake Camo, Boom, Containment Breach, Wildfire, Redline, Electric Hive, Hyper Beast, Neo-Noir, Man-o'-war, Pink DDPAT, Corticera, Sun in Leo, Elite Build, Fever Dream, Atheris, Mortis, PAW, Exoskeleton, Worm God, POP AWP, Phobos, Acheron, Pit Viper, Capillary, Safari Mesh), AK-47 (Steel Delta, Head Shot, Wild Lotus, Gold Arabesque, X-Ray, Fire Serpent, Hydroponic, Panthera Onca, Case Hardened, Vulcan, Jet Set, Fuel Injector, Bloodsport, Nightwish, First Class, Neon Rider, Asiimov, Red Laminate, Aquamarine Revenge, The Empress, Wasteland Rebel, Jaguar, Black Laminate, Leet Museo, Neon Revolution, Redline, Frontside Misty, Predator, Legion of Anubis, Point Disarray, Orbit Mk01, Blue Laminate, Green Laminate, Emerald Pinstripe, Cartel, Phantom Disruptor, Jungle Spray, Safety Net, Rat Rod, Baroque Purple, Slate, Elite Build, Uncharted, Safari Mesh), FAMAS (Waters of Nephthys, Sundown, Prime Conspiracy, Afterimage, Commemoration, Dark Water, Spitfire, Pulse, Eye of Athena, Meltdown, Rapid Eye Move, Roll Cage, Styx, Mecha Industrie, Djinn, ZX Spectron, Valence, Neural Net, Night Borre, Hexne), M4A4 (Eye of Horus, Temukau, Howl, Poseidon, Asiimov, Daybreak, Hellfire, Zirka, Red DDPAT, Radiation Hazard, Modern Hunter, The Emperor, The Coalition, Bullet Rain, Cyber Security, X-Ray, Dark Blossom, Buzz Kill, In Living Color, Neo-Noir, Desolate Space, 龍王 (Dragon King), Royal Paladin, The Battlestar, Global Offensive, Tooth Fairy, Desert-Strike, Griffin, Evil Daimyo, Spider Lily, Converter), M4A1-S (Emphorosaur-S, Welcome to the Jungle, Imminent Danger, Knight, Hot Rod, Icarus Fell, Blue Phosphor, Printstream, Master Piece, Dark Water, Golden Coil, Bright Water, Player Two, Atomic Alloy, Guardian, Chantico's Fire, Hyper Beast, Mecha Industries, Cyrex, Control Panel, Moss Quartz, Nightmare, Decimator, Leaded Glass, Basilisk, Blood Tiger, Briefing, Night Terror, Nitro, VariCamo, Flashback), SG 553 (Cyberforce, Hazard Pay, Bulldozer, Integrale, Dragon Tech, Ultraviolet, Colony IV, Hypnotic, Cyrex, Candy Apple, Barricade, Pulse), SSG 08 (Death Strike, Sea Calico, Blood in the Water, Orange Filigree, Dragonfire, Big Iron, Bloodshot, Detour, Turbo Peek, Red Stone), AUG (Akihabara Accept, Flame Jörmungandr, Hot Rod, Midnight Lily, Sand Storm, Carved Jade, Wings, Anodized Navy, Death by Puppy, Torque, Bengal Tiger, Chameleon, Fleet Flock, Random Access, Momentum, Syd Mead, Stymphalian, Arctic Wolf, Aristocrat, Navy Murano), G3SG1 (Chronos, Violet Murano, Flux, Demeter, Orange Kimono, The Executioner, Green Apple, Arctic Polar Camo, Contractor), SMGs - P90 (ScaraB Rush, Neoqueen, Astral Jörmungandr, Run and Hide, Emerald Dragon, Cold Blooded, Death by Kitty, Baroque Red, Vent Rush, Blind Spot, Asiimov, Trigon, Sunset Lily, Death Grip, Leather, Nostalgia, Fallout Warning, Tiger Pit, Schermatic, Virus, Shapewood, Glacier Mesh, Shallow Grave, Chopper, Desert Warfare), MAC-10 (Sakkaku, Hot Snakes, Copper Borre, Red Filigree, Gold Brick, Graven, Case Hardened, Stalker, Amber Fade, Neon Rider, Tatter, Curse, Propaganda, Nuclear Garden, Disco Tech, Toybox, Heat, Indigo), UMP-45 (Wild Child, Fade, Blaze, Day Lily, Minotaur's Labyrinth, Crime Scene, Caramel, Bone Pile, Momentum, Primal Saber), MP7 (Teal Blossom, Fade, Nemesis, Whiteout, Asterion, Bloosport, Abyssal Apparition, Full Stop, Special Delivery, Neon Ply, Asterion, Ocean Foam, Powercore, Scorched, Impire), PP-Bizon (Modern Hunter, Rust Coat, Forest Leaves, Antique, High Roller, Blue Streak, Seabird, Judgement of Anubis, Bamboo Print, Embargo, Chemical Green, Coblat Halftone, Fuel Rod, Photic Zone, Irradiated Alert, Carbon Fiber), MP9 (Featherweight, Wild Lily, Pandora's Box, Stained Glass, Bulldozer, Dark Age, Hot Rod, Hypnotic, Hydra, Rose Iron, Music Box, Setting Sun, Food Chain, Airlock, Mount Fuji, Starlight Protector, Ruby Poison Dart, Deadly Poison), MP5-SD (Liquidation, Oxide Oasis, Phosphor, Nitro, Agent, Autumn Twilly), Shotguns, Machineguns - Sawed-Off (Kiss♥Love, First Class, Orange DDPAT, Rust Coat, The Kraken, Devourer, Mosaico, Wasteland Princess, Bamboo Shadow, Copper, Serenity, Limelight, Apocalypto), XM1014 (Frost Borre, Ancient Lore, Red Leather, Elegant Vines, Banana Leaf, Jungle, Urban Perforated, Grassland, Blaze Orange, Heaven Guard, VariCamo Blue, Entombed, XOXO, Seasons, Tranquility, Bone Machine, Incinegator, Teclu Burner, Black Tie, Zombie Offensive, Watchdog), Nova (Sobek's Bite, Baroque Orange, Hyper Beast, Green Apple, Antique, Modern Hunter, Walnut, Forest Leaves, Graphite, Blaze Orange, Rising Skull, Tempest, Bloomstick, Interlock, Quick Sand, Moon in Libra, Clean Polymer, Red Quartz, Toy Soldier), MAG-7 (Copper Coated, Insomnia, Cinqueda, Counter Terrace, Prism Terrace, Memento, Chainmail, Hazard, Justice, Bulldozer, Silver, Core Breach, Firestarter, Praetorian, Heat, Hard Water, Monster Call, BI83 Spectrum, SWAG-7), M249 (Humidor, Shipping Forecast, Blizzard Marbleized, Downtown, Jungle DDPAT, Nebula Crusader, Impact Drill, Emerald Poison Dart), Negev (Mjölnir, Anodized Navy, Palm, Power Loader, Bratatat, CaliCamo, Phoenix Stencil, Infrastructure, Boroque Sand), Wear - Factory New (FN), Minimal Wear (MW), Field-Tested (FT), Well-Worn (WW), Battle-Scarred (BS), Stickers Holo/Foil/Gold - Katowice 2014, Krakow 2017, Howling Dawn, Katowice 2015, Crown, London 2018, Cologne 2014, Boston 2018, Atlanta 2017, Cluj-Napoca 2015, DreamHack 2014, King on the Field, Harp of War, Winged Difuser, Cologne 2016, Cologne 2015, MLG Columbus 2016, Katowice 2019, Berlin 2019, RMR 2020, Stockholm 2021, Antwerp 2022, Paris 2023, Swag Foil, Flammable foil, Others - Souvenirs, Agents, Pins, Passes, Gifts, Music Kits, Cases, Keys, Capsules, Packages, Patches

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Digital ICs, also known as logic ICs, are designed to process signals in binary form, utilizing only two states, 0 and 1, to represent information. This binary signal processing approach offers several advantages, including simplicity, ease of performing logical operations, and reduced chip area.
Operating Principle:
The fundamental structure of a digital IC consists of logic gates interconnected according to a specific design. Each logic gate performs a basic logical function such as AND, OR, NOT, etc. When binary signals (0, 1) are applied to the logic gates, they are processed and generate new binary signals at the output.
Classification of Digital ICs:
Digital ICs are categorized into various types based on their function and structure, including:

1. Logic Gates

Logic gates are the fundamental building blocks of digital circuits. They perform basic logical operations on binary data, such as AND, OR, NOT, XOR, and more. These operations are essential for manipulating information and implementing various computational tasks in electronic systems.
Key Characteristics:
· Binary Inputs and Outputs: Logic gates operate on binary data, represented by two distinct states, typically 0 and 1. They take one or more binary inputs and produce a single binary output based on the specified logical operation.
· Truth Tables: Truth tables define the behavior of logic gates by listing all possible input combinations and the corresponding output values. These tables provide a clear representation of the gate's functionality.
· Hardware Implementation: Logic gates can be physically implemented using various electronic components, such as transistors, diodes, and resistors. The specific implementation depends on the desired logic family and performance characteristics.
Common Logic Gate Types:
1. AND Gate: Performs the logical AND operation, producing a 1 output only if all inputs are 1. It represents the "and" condition, requiring all inputs to be true for the output to be true.
2. OR Gate: Performs the logical OR operation, producing a 1 output if any or all inputs are 1. It represents the "or" condition, indicating that the output is true if at least one input is true.
3. NOT Gate: Performs the logical NOT operation, inverting the input. It produces a 1 output if the input is 0 and a 0 output if the input is 1. It represents the "not" condition, negating the input value.
4. XOR Gate: Performs the logical exclusive OR operation, producing a 1 output only if the inputs are different (0 and 1 or 1 and 0). It represents the "exclusive or" condition, indicating that the output is true only if the inputs have opposite values.
Applications of Logic Gates:
Logic gates are the foundation of digital circuits, enabling the construction of various electronic components and systems:
· Digital Arithmetic Circuits: Logic gates are used to build arithmetic circuits that perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division operations on binary numbers.
· Boolean Expression Simplification: Logic gates can be combined to represent and simplify Boolean expressions, reducing the complexity of digital circuits.
· Data Encoding and Decoding: Logic gates are employed in data encoding and decoding schemes, such as binary to gray code conversion and error detection and correction codes.
· Control Logic and Sequential Circuits: Logic gates are essential for designing control logic in sequential circuits, such as flip-flops, counters, and registers, enabling state storage and timing control.
Logic Gate Families:
Several logic gate families have been developed, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
· RTL (Resistor-Transistor Logic): A simple and early logic family, but with high power consumption and slow speed.
· DTL (Diode-Transistor Logic): An improvement over RTL, offering better speed and lower power consumption.
· TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic): A widely used family known for its balance of speed, power consumption, and noise immunity.
· CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor): A modern family with extremely low power consumption, high speed, and high integration density.
· ECL (Emitter-Coupled Logic): A high-speed family used in high-performance applications, but with higher power consumption and complexity.
The choice of logic family depends on factors such as speed, power consumption, noise immunity, and cost. CMOS has become the dominant logic family due to its superior performance and integration capabilities.
Significance of Logic Gates:
Logic gates play a crucial role in the realm of digital electronics, forming the bedrock of modern computers and digital devices:
· Digital Computation: Logic gates enable the execution of complex computations and data manipulation, driving the processing power of digital systems.
· Logic Design and Circuitry: They provide the fundamental building blocks for designing and constructing various digital circuits, from simple logic functions to sophisticated microprocessors.
· Fundamental Building Blocks: Logic gates serve as the essential components that underpin the vast array of digital technologies that shape our modern world.
The development of logic gates has revolutionized the way we process information and interact with technology, enabling the creation of increasingly powerful and versatile electronic devices.

2. Memory

Memory is an essential component of any digital system, responsible for storing data and instructions that enable the system to function. It serves as the repository of information that the system processes and manipulates.
Key Components:
1. Memory Cells: The fundamental units of memory, each capable of storing one bit of data (0 or 1). Memory cells are typically based on transistors or other electronic components that can maintain a stable state.
2. Address Decoder: Responsible for translating memory addresses into specific memory cells. It receives an address from the CPU or other accessing device and identifies the corresponding memory cell where the data resides.
3. Read/Write Control Circuit: Manages the data transfer process between the CPU or other accessing device and the memory cells. It controls the reading of data from memory cells during read operations and the writing of data into memory cells during write operations.
4. Buffer: A temporary storage area that holds data during memory access operations. It acts as a bridge between the faster CPU or accessing device and the slower memory, reducing overall system latency.
Operating Principle:
Memory stores data by altering the state of memory cells. Each cell can represent one bit of data, either a 0 or a 1. The memory address serves as a unique identifier for each cell, enabling the system to locate the specific cell where data resides.
When the CPU or another device needs to access data from memory, it issues a memory request that includes the desired address. The address decoder translates this address into the corresponding memory cell. The read/write control circuit then activates the appropriate cell, either retrieving the stored data (read operation) or updating the cell's state with new data (write operation).
The buffer plays a crucial role in optimizing memory access by temporarily holding data during the transfer process. This reduces the overall delay experienced by the CPU or other accessing device, improving system performance.
Types of Memory:
Memory can be broadly classified into two main categories based on its data retention characteristics:
1. Random Access Memory (RAM): Volatile memory that stores data that can be changed or modified. Data in RAM is lost when the power is turned off. RAM is typically used for storing temporary data, such as program instructions, operating system data, and currently active applications.
2. Read-Only Memory (ROM): Non-volatile memory that stores fixed data that cannot be altered. Data in ROM remains intact even when the power is turned off. ROM is typically used for storing permanent data, such as firmware, boot code, and system configuration information.
Additional Memory Types:
· Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM): A type of ROM that can be programmed once by the user, typically using a high-voltage device.
· Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM): A type of PROM that can be erased and reprogrammed multiple times using ultraviolet light.
· Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM): A type of non-volatile memory that can be erased and reprogrammed electronically, without the need for external light sources.
· Flash Memory: A type of EEPROM that offers fast erase and write operations, making it suitable for use in portable devices and solid-state drives.
Significance of Memory:
Memory plays a fundamental role in modern digital systems:
· Data Storage: It provides the storage medium for essential data, including program instructions, operating system files, user data, and multimedia content.
· System Operation: Memory enables the continuous operation of the system by retaining critical information, such as system state, application data, and intermediate results of calculations.
· Performance Enhancement: Memory plays a crucial role in optimizing system performance by providing fast access to frequently used data and instructions.
The development of memory technologies has been a driving force in the advancement of computing, enabling the creation of increasingly powerful and versatile electronic devices.
3. Clock Circuit
Significance of Clock Circuits
Clock circuits play a crucial role in the operation of digital electronic devices. They provide the essential timing signal that synchronizes the operation of various components within the system, ensuring coordinated and efficient data processing. The frequency of the clock signal directly impacts the speed of the circuit, enabling faster and more powerful electronic devices.
Advancements in clock circuit technology have led to the development of higher-frequency, more stable, and lower-power clock circuits, contributing to the continuous improvement of electronic devices in terms of performance, efficiency, and reliability..
Components of a Clock Circuit
The basic components of a clock circuit include:
1. Oscillator: Generates the fundamental clock signal. Oscillators can utilize various elements, such as quartz crystals, ceramic resonators, or RC (resistor-capacitor) networks, to produce a stable and accurate clock signal.
2. Frequency Divider: Divides the clock signal from the oscillator down to the desired frequency. This is necessary because the oscillator may generate a much higher frequency than required by the circuit.
3. Counter: Counts the clock pulses from the frequency divider. The count value can be used for various purposes, such as generating timing signals or keeping track of time.
4. Decoder: Decodes the count value from the counter into specific time signals, such as seconds, minutes, or hours. This is particularly useful for applications that require real-time clock functionality.
Operating Principle:
A clock circuit operates by generating a clock signal with a stable frequency. This clock signal is used to synchronize the operation of other ICs in the system. The oscillator generates the basic clock signal, which is then divided by the frequency divider and counted by the counter. The decoder decodes the count value into time signals.
Types of Clock Circuits
Clock circuits can be categorized into two main types:
1. Internal Clock Circuit: Integrated within the IC itself. This type of clock circuit is commonly found in microcontrollers and other integrated circuits that require a clock signal for their internal operation.
2. External Clock Circuit: Provides a clock signal for multiple ICs. This type of clock circuit is often used in larger digital systems where multiple ICs need to be synchronized.
Common Clock Circuit Types
Several types of clock circuits are commonly used in electronic devices:
1. RC Oscillator Circuit: A simple and inexpensive oscillator circuit that utilizes resistors and capacitors to generate a clock signal.
2. LC Oscillator Circuit: A more stable and accurate oscillator circuit that employs an inductor and capacitor to produce the clock signal.
3. Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) Circuit: A sophisticated oscillator circuit that locks its frequency to a reference signal, ensuring high stability and precision.

4. Communication Circuits

Communication Circuits

Communication circuits enable integrated circuits (ICs) to exchange information with external devices, facilitating data transfer, device interaction, and system control. These circuits play a crucial role in modern electronic systems, enabling them to function as interconnected components within a larger network.
Key Components:
1. Physical Interface: Establishes a physical connection between the IC and the external device. This can be realized through pins, connectors, or wireless transmission mediums.
2. Data Transmission Circuit: Handles the encoding and decoding of data for transmission and reception. It ensures that data is converted into a suitable format for transmission over the physical interface and accurately interpreted upon reception.
3. Communication Control Circuit: Orchestrates the data transfer process, ensuring proper timing, synchronization, error detection, and error correction. It manages the exchange of data between the IC and the external device in a controlled and reliable manner.
Operating Principle:
Communication circuits operate by establishing a physical link between the IC and the external device, enabling the exchange of electrical signals. The data transmission circuit then encodes the data from the IC into a format suitable for transmission over the physical interface. This may involve converting the data into a serial bit stream, modulating it onto a carrier signal, or encapsulating it in a communication protocol frame.
Once transmitted, the data is received by the external device and passed to its communication circuit. The data transmission circuit then decodes the received data, converting it back into a format that the IC can understand. This may involve demodulating the signal, extracting the data from the protocol frame, or converting the serial bit stream into parallel data.
The communication control circuit oversees the entire data transfer process, ensuring that the data is transmitted and received in a synchronized and error-free manner. It may employ techniques such as clock synchronization, error detection codes, and retransmission mechanisms to guarantee data integrity.
Types of Communication Circuits:
Communication circuits encompass a wide range of technologies tailored for specific communication protocols and applications:
1. Data Bus: Enables multiple ICs to communicate with each other over a shared data path. Data buses are commonly used in microprocessors and other digital systems to transfer data between various components.
2. Serial Communication Port: Facilitates sequential data transmission between ICs, one bit at a time. Serial communication is often employed in applications where bandwidth is limited or long-distance communication is required.
3. Parallel Communication Port: Allows for simultaneous transmission of multiple bits of data between ICs, providing faster data transfer rates compared to serial communication. Parallel communication is commonly used in high-speed data transfer applications.
4. Wireless Communication: Enables ICs to communicate with other devices without the need for physical cables. Wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks are becoming increasingly prevalent in modern electronic devices.
Significance of Communication Circuits:
Communication circuits are indispensable components in modern electronic devices, enabling them to:
· Exchange data with other devices, such as sensors, actuators, and peripherals.
· Interact with user inputs, such as keyboards, buttons, and touchscreens.
· Respond to network requests and commands.
· Participate in distributed systems and control networks.
The advancement of communication circuit technology has led to the development of higher-speed, more reliable, and more energy-efficient communication interfaces, enabling the creation of more sophisticated and interconnected electronic devices that can seamlessly interact with the surrounding environment and with each other.

5. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The central processing unit (CPU) serves as the "brain" of a computer system, orchestrating the execution of instructions and processing data to drive various operations. It is the heart of a computer, responsible for carrying out calculations, manipulating data, and managing the overall flow of information within the system.
Key Components:
1. Processing Unit: The core of the CPU, responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations on data. It comprises components like arithmetic logic units (ALUs), floating-point units (FPUs), and registers that handle data manipulation and computations.
2. Control Unit: The maestro of the CPU, directing the overall operation and execution of instructions. It fetches instructions from memory, decodes them into understandable commands, and coordinates the activities of other CPU components to ensure proper instruction execution.
3. Cache Memory: A high-speed storage area that temporarily holds frequently accessed data and instructions, reducing the need for slower memory access. Cache memory acts as a buffer, improving overall system performance by providing faster access to essential data.
4. Data Bus: The communication highway that transports data between the CPU and other system components, such as memory and input/output devices. It serves as the data transfer channel, enabling the exchange of information between the CPU and various parts of the system.
5. Address Bus: The address decoder that identifies the specific location of data or instructions stored in memory. It acts as a pointer, pinpointing the exact memory address where data or instructions reside.
6. Control Bus: The traffic controller that manages the operation of the data bus and address bus, ensuring synchronized data transfers and maintaining overall system coordination. It regulates the flow of data and addresses between the CPU and other components.
Operating Principle:
The CPU functions by executing instructions stored in memory. These instructions dictate the operations to be performed and the data to be processed. The control unit plays a pivotal role in this process, fetching instructions from memory, deciphering their meaning, and directing other CPU units to carry out the specified tasks.
1. Instruction Fetch: The control unit retrieves instructions from memory, typically from the main memory or cache memory.
2. Instruction Decode: The control unit interprets the fetched instructions, breaking them down into their constituent parts and understanding the operations they represent.
3. Instruction Execution: The control unit directs the appropriate CPU units, such as the ALU or FPU, to execute the decoded instructions. These units perform the specified calculations or data manipulations.
4. Result Storage: The outcomes of the executed instructions, such as calculated values or processed data, are stored in registers or memory locations, making them available for further use.
The CPU continuously cycles through this fetch-decode-execute-store process, tirelessly processing instructions and manipulating data to drive the computer system's operations.
Significance of the CPU:
The CPU is the cornerstone of a computer system, enabling it to perform its fundamental tasks:
· Execute programs and applications: The CPU interprets and carries out the instructions that make up software programs, allowing users to run various applications.
· Process data: The CPU performs calculations, manipulates data, and transforms information, enabling the computer to handle complex computations and data analysis.
· Control system operations: The CPU manages the overall flow of information and coordinates the activities of other system components, ensuring smooth and efficient system operation.
The performance and capabilities of the CPU significantly impact the overall responsiveness, speed, and processing power of a computer system. Advancements in CPU technology have led to the development of faster, more efficient, and more powerful CPUs, enabling the creation of increasingly sophisticated and capable computers.
Many Sources

1. Resistors:

Function: Limits current, divides current, creates voltage drops, adjusts voltage.
Variable Parameter: Resistance (R) - measured in Ohms (Ω).
Significance: The higher the resistance value, the lower the current through it, and vice versa.
Construction: A resistive core (carbon, metal, ceramic, etc.) coated with an insulating layer.
Operating Principle: Based on the collision of electrons with atoms in the resistive core, reducing the energy of the electrons and converting it into heat energy.
Applications: Widely used in electronic circuits, from simple to complex circuits. For example: limiting current through LEDs, dividing current in amplifier circuits, creating voltage drops for voltage regulator circuits, adjusting voltage in filter circuits...

2. Capacitors:

Function: Stores electrical energy, filters signals, blocks AC current, passes DC current.
Variable Parameter: Capacitance (C) - measured in Farads (F).
Significance: The higher the capacitance value, the greater the ability to store electrical energy, and vice versa.
Construction: Two parallel metal plates separated by an insulating dielectric (paper, ceramic, mica...).
Operating Principle: When a voltage is applied, an electric field is created between the capacitor plates, charging the capacitor plates. When the power is turned off, the electric field remains and keeps the capacitor plates charged.
Applications: Very diverse in electronic circuits, from power supply filtering to oscillator circuits. For example: filtering power for electronic circuits, generating pulses for oscillator circuits, blocking noise signals...

3. Inductors:

Function: Stores electrical energy in the form of a magnetic field, resists sudden changes in current, creates time delays.
Variable Parameter: Inductance (L) - measured in Henrys (H).
Significance: The higher the inductance value, the greater the resistance to sudden changes in current, and vice versa.
Construction: A coil of conductive wire wrapped around a core (plastic, iron...).
Operating Principle: When current flows through the inductor, a magnetic field is created around it. When the current changes, the magnetic field also changes, generating an induced voltage in the opposite direction of the current, counteracting the sudden change in current.
Applications: Common in power supply filtering, resonant circuits, transformer circuits... For example: filtering power for electronic circuits, generating pulses for oscillator circuits, converting voltage...

4. Diodes:

Function: Allows current to flow in one direction, blocks current in the opposite direction.
Variable Parameter: Threshold voltage (Uf) - measured in Volts (V).
Significance: The higher the threshold voltage, the higher the voltage required for the diode to conduct.
Construction: Two semiconductor layers joined together to form a P-N junction.
Operating Principle: Based on the principle of electron and hole diffusion. When there is a forward voltage, current flows through the diode. When there is a reverse voltage, the current is blocked.
Applications: Widely used in electronic circuits, from rectification circuits to protection circuits. For example: rectifying AC power to DC power, protecting electronic circuits from reverse voltage...

5. Transistors:

Function: Amplifies electrical signals, controls current, switches on and off electrical circuits.
Variable Parameter: Hfe (β) - current gain.
Construction: Three semiconductor layers joined together to form N-P-N or P-N-P.
Operating Principle: Based on the control of current through one semiconductor layer (base) by current in another semiconductor layer (emitter, collector).
Applications: Very diverse in electronic circuits, from audio amplifier circuits to microprocessor circuits...

Integrated Circuits (ICs): Operating Principle

Integrated circuits (ICs), also known as microchips, are assemblies of electronic components interconnected on a small semiconductor substrate. These components can include transistors, resistors, capacitors, diodes, and many other types. ICs are used to perform a wide range of electronic functions, from simple to complex.
The basic operating principle of ICs is to utilize the properties of semiconductor materials to create transistors and other electronic components. These transistors are then interconnected according to pre-designed circuit diagrams to perform the desired functions.
There are two main types of ICs:
Digital ICs: This type of IC uses electronic signals at two voltage levels (usually 0V and 5V) to represent data. Digital ICs are used in electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, and many other devices.
Analog ICs: This type of IC uses electronic signals that can change continuously to represent data. Analog ICs are used in electronic devices such as audio amplifiers, filters, and other devices.

Essential Circuit Blocks in Integrated Circuits (ICs)

Integrated circuits (ICs), also known as microchips, are the cornerstone of modern electronics. These tiny marvels of engineering pack millions of transistors, resistors, capacitors, and other components onto a single semiconductor substrate, enabling them to perform a vast array of functions. Understanding the fundamental circuit blocks that make up ICs is crucial for comprehending their operation and appreciating their versatility.
1. Amplifier Circuits:
o Function: Amplify electronic signals (voltage or current) to enhance their strength.
o Structure: Comprises transistors, resistors, capacitors, and other components connected in amplifier configurations like BJT amplifiers, FET amplifiers, etc.
o Operating Principle: Utilizes the principle of controlling current through a transistor to modify the voltage or current at the output.
o Applications: Widely used in electronic devices like radios, televisions, computers, etc.
2. Logic Circuits:
o Function: Perform logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, etc.) on electronic signals.
o Structure: Consists of logic gates constructed from transistors, resistors, capacitors, and other components.
o Operating Principle: Employs the principle of switching voltage states (0 or 1) to represent the outcome of a logical operation.
o Applications: Employed to build central processing units (CPUs), control circuitry in electronic devices, etc.
3. Oscillator Circuits:
o Function: Generate electronic signals with a periodic oscillating waveform of specific frequency and amplitude.
o Structure: Comprises transistors, capacitors, resistors, and other components connected in oscillator configurations like LC oscillators, RC oscillators, etc.
o Operating Principle: Relies on the principle of charging and discharging a capacitor coupled with transistor amplification to produce an oscillating signal.
o Applications: Utilized in electronic devices like clocks, radio transmitters, etc.
4. Memory Circuits:
o Function: Store data in the form of electronic signals.
o Structure: Consists of memory cells like flip-flops, SRAM, DRAM, etc.
o Operating Principle: Employs the principle of altering the state of memory cells to retain data.
o Applications: Employed in electronic devices like computers, mobile phones, etc.

5. Pulse Generator Circuits:

· Function: Generate electrical pulses with square, triangular, or other waveform shapes at specific frequencies and amplitudes.
· Structure: Comprises multivibrators, 555 timer ICs, and other components.
· Operating Principle: Utilizes the principle of charging and discharging a capacitor coupled with transistor amplification to produce electrical pulses.
· Applications: Employed in electronic devices like clocks, computers, etc.

6. Filter Circuits:

· Function: Eliminate unwanted components from electronic signals, such as noise, harmonic signals, etc.
· Structure: Consists of inductors, capacitors, resistors, and other components connected in filter configurations like RC filters, LC filters, etc.
· Operating Principle: Relies on the principle of blocking or attenuating components with frequencies different from the desired frequency.
· Applications: Widely used in electronic devices like radios, televisions, computers, etc.

7. Comparator Circuits:

· Function: Compare two electronic signals and generate an output signal indicating which signal is greater, smaller, or equal.
· Structure: Comprises voltage comparators or current comparators constructed from transistors, resistors, capacitors, and other components.
· Operating Principle: Employs the principle of comparing the voltage or current of two input signals to produce an appropriate output signal.
· Applications: Utilized in electronic devices like control circuits, timing circuits, etc.

8. Signal Conversion Circuits:

· Function: Convert electronic signals from one form to another, such as converting analog signals to digital signals and vice versa.
· Structure: Consists of A/D converters, D/A converters, comparators, filters, and other components.
· Operating Principle: Relies on the principle of sampling analog signals, encoding them into digital signals, or decoding digital signals into analog signals.
· Applications: Widely used in electronic devices like computers, mobile phones, etc.

9. Control Circuits:

· Function: Control the operation of other circuits within an IC or an electronic system.
· Structure: Comprises logic gates, flip-flops, counters, decoders, and other components.
· Operating Principle: Employs the principle of processing logic signals to control the state of other circuits.
· Applications: Utilized in most electronic devices.

10. Communication Circuits:

· Function: Enable ICs to communicate with other devices in an electronic system or with users.
· Structure: Consists of communication buses, buffers, communication controllers, and other components.
· Operating Principle: Relies on the principle of transmitting and receiving data between devices.
· Applications: Employed in most electronic devices.

11. Voltage Regulator Circuits:

· Function: Provide a stable voltage supply to other circuits within an IC or an electronic system.
· Structure: Comprises transistors, Zener diodes, resistors, and other components connected in voltage regulator configurations like linear regulators, switching regulators, etc.
· Operating Principle: Utilizes the principle of adjusting the output voltage by modifying the resistance or current through the transistor or Zener diode.
· Applications: Widely used in electronic devices like computers, mobile phones, etc.
These essential circuit blocks form the foundation of ICs, empowering them to perform a vast array of functions that underpin modern electronics. From amplifying signals to processing data and enabling communication, ICs have revolutionized technology and continue to drive innovation across various industries.
Many sources

Cascaded control circuits, also known as ladder logic circuits, are a type of electronic circuit used to perform logical operations and control electrical signals in a hierarchical manner in automation systems. These circuits operate based on the principle of comparing the input voltage to predetermined voltage thresholds, thereby generating output signals at different voltage levels.
Basic Structure of a Ladder Diagram
Ladder diagrams are a visual tool for describing logic systems, particularly useful in the field of PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming. This diagram is composed of the following main components:
1. Power Rail (Left-hand Rail):

• Contains the program's inputs. These inputs can be signals from sensors, switches, or other devices.
• Represented by vertical lines on the left side of the diagram.

2. Output Rail (Right-hand Rail):

• Contains the program's outputs. These outputs can be control signals for motors, valves, LEDs, or other devices.
• Represented by vertical lines on the right side of the diagram.

3. Rung (Ladder Step):

• Each rung represents a step in the logic process.
• Consists of two parts:
  • Condition Part:
    • Contains contacts that represent the logical conditions that must be met to execute an action.
    • Contacts can be normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC).
    • Represented by square or round symbols.
  • Action Part:
    • Contains coils that represent the actions to be taken when the conditions in the condition part are met.
    • Coils are represented by rectangles.

4. Connections:

• Used to connect contacts and coils to each other, forming complete logic expressions.
• Represented by horizontal lines connecting elements within a rung.

Examples of Components and Sample Rungs
Example 1: Turning on a Light When a Switch is Pressed
Power Rail: Switch (input) Output Rail: Light (output) Rung:

• Condition: NO contact of the switch
• Action: Coil controlling the light
• Connection: Connect the NO contact of the switch to the coil controlling the light

Example 2: Using a Temperature Sensor to Control a Fan
Power Rail:

• NTC temperature sensor (input) Output Rail:
• Coil controlling the fan (output) Rung 1:
• Condition:
  • NO contact of the temperature sensor (when temperature > 25°C)
• Action:
  • Turn off the coil controlling the fan Rung 2:
• Condition:
  • NC contact of the temperature sensor (when temperature < 20°C)
• Action:
  • Turn on the coil controlling the fan Connections:
• Connect the NO contact of the temperature sensor to the coil controlling the fan (Rung 1)
• Connect the NC contact of the temperature sensor to the coil controlling the fan (Rung 2)

Explanation:

• When the room temperature is higher than 25°C, the NO contact of the temperature sensor will close, activating the coil controlling the fan and turning on the fan to cool the room.
• When the room temperature is lower than 20°C, the NC contact of the temperature sensor will close, activating the coil controlling the fan and turning off the fan to keep the room warm.

Note:

• This example only uses two basic rungs to control the fan at two fixed temperature levels.
• The diagram can be expanded with more rungs to control the fan at different temperature levels or combined with other sensors and devices to create a more complete automatic control system.
• The choice of temperature sensor, threshold temperature values, and control logic depends on the specific requirements of the application.

Structure of Various Sensors
NTC Temperature Sensor:

• Operating Principle: NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) temperature sensors are a type of resistor whose resistance decreases with increasing temperature.
• Structure: Consists of a semiconductor material made into a small resistor. When the temperature changes, the resistance of the semiconductor material also changes.
• Operation: As the temperature increases, the crystal structure of the semiconductor material changes, creating more conductive holes, leading to a decrease in resistance. Conversely, as the temperature decreases, the resistance of the NTC will increase.
• Applications: Heating system control, air conditioning system control, temperature alarm, etc.

Optical Sensor:

• Operating Principle: Detects the presence, position, or characteristics of an object using light.
• Structure: Includes a light source (such as LED, laser) and a receiver (such as photodiode, phototransistor).
• Operation:
  • Reflective Optical Sensor: Light from the emitter is reflected by the object and received by the receiver. When an object appears or moves, the received signal changes, activating the output.
  • Beam-Break Optical Sensor: Light from the emitter is blocked by the object, affecting the received signal. When an object appears or moves, the received signal changes, activating the output.
  • Spectroscopic Optical Sensor: Analyzes the light reflected from an object to determine the color, material, or other characteristics of the object.
• Applications: Optical sensors are widely used in various fields such as industrial automation, door access control, security, healthcare, etc.

Proximity Sensor:

• Operating Principle: Detects the presence of an object at a close distance without direct contact.
• Structure: Includes an emitter and receiver of electromagnetic waves, electric fields, or sound waves.
• Operation:
  • Electromagnetic Proximity Sensor: Uses a coil to create a magnetic field. When a metal object approaches, the magnetic field is distorted, affecting the received signal.
  • Eddy Current Proximity Sensor: Uses an antenna to transmit and receive electromagnetic waves. When an object approaches, the electromagnetic waves are reflected, affecting the received signal.
  • Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor: Uses a speaker to emit sound waves and a microphone to receive reflected waves. When an object approaches, the reflection time of the sound waves changes, affecting the received signal.
• Applications: Proximity sensors are used in various fields such as industrial automation, door access control, elevators, robots, etc.

Pressure Sensor:

• Operating Principle: Measures the pressure of a liquid or gas.
• Structure: Includes an elastic diaphragm, a strain gauge, or a semiconductor pressure sensor.
• Operation:
  • Diaphragm Pressure Sensor: When pressure changes, the elastic diaphragm is deformed, affecting the resistance or voltage signal.
  • Strain Gauge Pressure Sensor: Uses a strain gauge to measure pressure. When pressure changes, the resistance of the strain gauge changes, affecting the voltage signal.
  • Semiconductor Pressure Sensor: Uses a semiconductor chip to measure pressure. When pressure changes, the voltage signal on the chip changes.
• Applications: Pressure sensors are used in various fields such as healthcare, aerospace, automotive, industrial, etc.

Accelerometer:

• Operating Principle: Measures the acceleration of an object (rate of change of velocity).
• Structure: Includes an accelerometer mass, a spring, and a position sensor.
• Operation: When the object moves, the accelerometer mass is subjected to inertial force, causing it to move relative to the spring. The position sensor measures the position of the accelerometer mass, from which the acceleration of the object is calculated.
• Applications: Accelerometers are used in various fields such as aerospace, automotive, smartphones, robots, etc.

Force Sensor:

• Operating Principle: Measures the force applied to an object.
• Structure: Includes a mechanical deformation (tension, compression, bending) and a position sensor or strain gauge.
• Operation:
  • Electromechanical Force Sensor: When a force is applied, the object is deformed, affecting the resistance of the strain gauge.
  • Semiconductor Force Sensor: Uses a semiconductor chip to measure force. When a force is applied, the voltage signal on the chip changes.
• Applications: Force sensors are used in various fields such as industrial automation, electronic scales, robots, healthcare, etc.

Humidity Sensor:

• Operating Principle: Measures the humidity (amount of water vapor) in the air or surrounding environment.
• Structure: Includes a hygroscopic material (such as polymer, salt) and a resistance or capacitance sensor.
• Operation:
  • Resistance Humidity Sensor: When humidity changes, the resistance of the hygroscopic material changes, affecting the voltage signal.
  • Capacitance Humidity Sensor: When humidity changes, the capacitance of the hygroscopic material changes, affecting the voltage signal.
• Applications: Humidity sensors are used in various fields such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), healthcare, food production, agriculture, etc.

Gas Sensor:

• Operating Principle: Detects the presence or concentration of specific types of gases.
• Structure: Includes a gas-sensitive material (such as semiconductor, conductive polymer) and a resistance or capacitance sensor.
• Operation: When the target gas comes into contact with the sensitive material, the resistance or capacitance of the material changes, affecting the voltage signal.
• Applications: Gas sensors are used in various fields such as industrial safety, environmental control, healthcare, gas detection, etc.

Additional Notes:

• The provided information on sensors covers a wide range of commonly used sensors in various applications.
• Each sensor type has its unique characteristics, operating principles, and applications.
• The selection of the appropriate sensor for a specific application depends on factors such as the target parameter to be measured, the required accuracy, operating conditions, and cost considerations.
• Sensors play a crucial role in various industries and scientific fields, enabling data acquisition, monitoring, and control processes.

The Advent of PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers)

Prior to the introduction of PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), industrial control systems primarily relied on relays to perform control logic. However, the use of relays presented several drawbacks, including:
· Difficulties in Design and Programming: Designing and programming control systems using relays for complex circuits was time-consuming, labor-intensive, and required high expertise.
· Challenges in Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Identifying and rectifying faults within relay-based systems was a lengthy and laborious process.
· Lack of Flexibility: Modifying control logic in relay systems was intricate and expensive.
· Bulky Size: Relay systems often occupied substantial space due to their large size.
The advent of PLCs addressed the limitations of traditional relay systems, offering numerous advantages:
· Ease of Programming: PLCs can be programmed using user-friendly languages like Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, and others. This facilitates quicker and simpler design and programming of control systems.
· Simplified Troubleshooting and Maintenance: PLCs possess self-diagnostic capabilities, enabling faster and easier fault identification and rectification within the system.
· High Flexibility: Control logic in PLCs can be readily modified by altering the programming code.
· Compact Size: PLCs are compact, saving installation space.
Owing to these benefits, PLCs rapidly gained popularity as preferred control devices in industrial applications. Today, PLCs are extensively employed across diverse sectors, including:
· Manufacturing: PLCs control automated production lines, encompassing electronics, automotive, food processing, and other manufacturing industries.
· Building Automation: PLCs manage lighting systems, HVAC systems, security systems, and more in buildings.
· Energy: PLCs oversee power systems, water systems, gas systems, and the like.
· Transportation: PLCs handle transportation systems, including railways, roadways, aviation, and others.
The introduction of PLCs marked a revolutionary step in the field of industrial automation, contributing to enhanced production efficiency and productivity.
Many sources

Throw away account for reasons. I live in Tacoma, WA.
Context: I live in a strictly non-smoking apartment building. Myself and my partner are both very sensitive to cigarette smoke so this has been a plus for us. Our downstairs neighbors have in the last several months taken to smoking on the balcony below us and blowing smoke out the bedroom window below ours. We live in an old building with crappy ventilation and have to have our windows open most days and nights with a fan to keep the heat down. So basically every day at multiple times, we get blasted with cigarette smoke.
Normally we’d just talk to the neighbors but we were actually good friends of their former roommate who said they are not good or reasonable people and one even got fired from his job for assault this year. The neighbors are three large men and our friend warned us to stay away from them. We’ve spoken with our rental agency and the agent’s warnings to all tenants have so far gone unheeded. The agent seemed to sort of imply that she needs to see it for herself to take any action as she said she’d try to scope it out. Obviously there’s a good chance she’ll miss the smoking timing wise so I’ve taken several clear videos from above of the neighbors knocking ashes off their balcony.
So my question is: can the rental agency legally use the video I took if I send it to them? I’m not even sure if taking the video itself was legal? I was just so pissed at the time that I took it without really thinking. I read something online about how as long as people are where others could normally see them, ie on their porch facing a public street, it’s legal to film them as they couldn’t reasonably expect total privacy there but IANAL.
Thanks in advance, all.

So, I have a very amateur lab, no access to glove boxes or fancy things like that.
I have been needing some AlCl3 and I'd rather not order it.
What I have been trying instead is:
1.) First making anhydrous ZnCl2 with HCl and elemental zinc and melting it (it melts at around 290C) in a round bottom flask in a powerful heating mantle.
2.) When the flask seems nice and dry and the ZnCl2 is all molten I add finely chopped aluminum foil bits in rough stoechiometric amount that I have previously dried in the oven on max heat.
3.) I then increase the temperature of the reaction flask mantle to about 380C and after a while a vigorous reaction starts, producing a white gas that I condense in another flask that I immediately connect (when the vigorous reaction starts) to the first one by a short, non refrigerated and even thermally insulated (with glass wool and aluminium foil) borosilicate glass condenser / arm (or whatever it's called, sorry). The reaction seems self-sustained enough, I stop the heating as soon as it starts.
4.) A white-yellowish product then condenses in the second flask and it has all the properties of AlCl3 that I can think of testing.
5.) I've been trying to store that AlCl3 by dissolving it in dried acetone, with limited success (ends up yellow after a few days, but if it can last one day it'll already be useful). For my use case rn, it being in acetone is not an issue.
The problems I can see are: - the short distillation arm ends up clogging, I think I might need a system to warm it to at least 180C (AlCl3's boiling point) - there is obviously residual water in the system that deteriorates the quality of the end product
As I have no access to inert gas I have been thinking of trying to flush the atmosphere of the whole system with dry acetone, but I'm afraid I'll inadvertently hit an explosive composition mixture in the reaction flask and getting my whole system to explode once the ZnCl2 + Al reaction occurs, as it is exothermic but how much so I don't know.
Does anybody know what temperatures this reaction can reach? is it close to acetone's auto-ignition temp? 380C is already not that far... so I'm reluctant to try this.
Any other ideas or advice please?
EDITs: minor stuff - format, typos, grammar...

Part 14.3

Heracles VS Lernaean Hydra

Author Note: I was thinking about it and I really wish that GT9 used more draconic symbolism throughout the story when (or if) I revisit Team Crowley VS Rosencreutz I'll have symbolism of Aleister (TheBeast666), Aiwass (Codename: DRAGON) and Coronzon (The Dragon of the Abyss) all have symbology of them being Dragons preying on a God/Hero like CRC and the reversed conflict of Chaos VS Order you see in mythology, I also wanted to achieve something similar with Kakine Teitoku as he can represent the Fallen Angel and the Seraphim but for now I'll try adding draconian symbolism into Gunha VS CRC.
True Expert Christian Rosencreutz, with his golden rosy cross sword, clashed relentlessly against the indomitable force of the Strongest Gemstone, Sogiita Gunha. With each clash of their powers, the air crackled and compressed, and the pavement trembled beneath.
CRC, observed Sogiita with a mixture of intrigue and disdain. "You fight like the legendary Heracles," he remarked, his voice carrying over the din of battle. "But know this, I am the Lernaean Hydra, and no matter how many heads you sever, I shall always rise again!" Rosencreutz roared to slice the #7’s midsection.
Sogiita, his entire body wreathed in unknowable energy, met CRC's blade unyielding. "Bring it on, old man!" he retorted, his voice brimming with confidence. "I'll knock you down as many times as it takes! I won't stop till you come to your senses and remember your roots, like the roses you love so much, Rosencreutz!!"
Their clash intensified, that old man’s higher dimensional sword colliding with the raw power of that boy’s fists and kicks as they pushed each other to their limits with each sword swing, punch, kick and flash.
Sogiita unleashed a barrage of punches, each strike carrying the force of a meteor, while that silver young man countered: he wielded his sword in his right hand and released impacts followed by white light that was enough to previously take down all of The Bridge Builders Cabal.
As the battle raged on, the very fabric of reality seemed to warp and shift around them, bearing witness to the titanic struggle between two unparalleled forces.
The founder of Rosicrucianism who intimidated reality itself to obey his will and that Gemstone with an unstable personal reality that could change on a whim.
The atmosphere crackled with electrifying distortion.
Sogiita's fists tore through the air with the ferocity of meteors, their velocity enhanced by his ability to adapt and accelerate, surpassing even CRC's speed. As each blow was released, the friction with the surrounding air molecules ignited a scorching heat, intensifying the impact.
The rapid movement of molecules generated an escalating thermal energy, causing the air to seethe with increasing temperature. It was akin to a tempest of incandescent projectiles hurtling towards CRC, their speed surpassing the limits of human perception.
It was like a storm of brilliant fiery arrows was fired at Rosencreutz.
These blazing arrows of force were reminiscent of the elusive strikes employed by the Rose & Cross Leader, ignoring distance with deceptive agility.
With each thunderous punch, that bandana boy sought to overpower his adversary through sheer kinetic force, his unwavering resolve palpable in every motion.
But that wasn't enough for this superhuman.
CRC, wielding his cross sword with precision and skill, deflected each and every one Sogiita's flaming arrows with calculated strikes of his own. Each impact unleashed a burst of blinding white light, sending shockwaves rippling through the chaotic city.
"You think brute strength alone will defeat me?" the silver man taunted, his voice cutting through the chaos of battle. "You may be strong, but strength without strategy is nothing but raw power wasted."
Sogiita grinned, his confidence unshaken. "Strategies for cowards who can't handle a real fight," he retorted, his voice ringing with defiance. "I'll K.O. you with my fists and guts alone!!!!"
Rosencreutz's eyes narrowed as he parried another of Sogiita's punches. "Your arrogance will be your downfall," he warned, his tone tinged with certainty. "I may not match your overall speed, but I have something you lack: intellect and precision.”
Christian Rosencreutz then plunged his cross sword into the ground.
"This is what harmed Kamijou Touma," he declared, grinning and unleashing a torrent of lethal invisible attacks from his outstretched palms.
However, the #7 countered with a relentless barrage of flaming arrows from the thermal aftershock of his punches.
Each strike akin to a particle accelerator in its intensity and speed. That Gemstone was the particles being fired on the right and that True Expert was the particles fired on the left.
As the attacks clashed, the battlefield became a spectacle of raw power and precision.
“Roar!” CRC held his open palm to his mouth and blew gently on the tip of the middle finger.
That was all it took for a blaze easily outdoing a flamethrower to rush out. And this was not just any fire. It fed on the power of a ley line and stole vitality from space itself. This overwhelming mass of light and heat was wielded for no other purpose than to take lives. Anyone who tried to survive it using simple composite armor or special fibers would dry up and burn away in less than a second.
But that wouldn't kill another superhuman would it?
Of course not.
“Aaaaarghhhh!!!!” screamed the #7.
Some assaults bypassed the fray entirely, slipping through the chaos like elusive particles in a collider.
A smokescreen.
Those brilliant fireworks from hell weren't meant to take Sogiita’s life. They were meant to disrupt the Gemstone's senses and sight so he couldn't counter all of that old man’s deadly attacks.
Invisible strikes found their mark on that Gemstone, and the searing arrows of the arrows scorched Rosencreutz.
CRC was wounded but he rejected to make any whimpers. Instead with a sudden burst of velocity, the young silver man picked up his cross sword from the ground and launched a flurry of strikes, cutting at the #7’s body with pinpoint accuracy.
His arms, his head, his face, his stomach, his legs, his midsection, his back.
Each blow landed with devastating force, causing Sogiita to stagger back under the onslaught.
If that bandana boy hadn't had his defenses and general stats raised by the #5 he’d be cut to pieces.
The #7 fell on his back.
"There's a fire," Sogiita declared, his voice ringing out amidst the chaos of battle.
With each attempt to break his spirit, Sogiita's resolve only grew stronger, fueling the flames of his determination. "Every time someone tries to make me give up, it's like wind feeding my flames, making them burn even brighter just like my punches," he explained, his words carrying the weight of his unwavering determination.
He refused to stay down.
With a roar of defiance, Sogiita surged forward once more, his movements blurring with speed as he disappeared from view. In the blink of an eye, he reappeared behind Christian Rosencreutz, catching the magician off guard.
"Hey, old man," Sogiita taunted, his voice filled with confidence as he seized Rosencreutz from behind.
Christian Rosencreutz's eyes widened in surprise as he realized he had been outmaneuvered.
As Sogiita Gunha faced off against Christian Rosencreutz in their airborne duel, he felt the flames of determination burning within him, driving him forward with unstoppable force.
Before he could react, the boy lifted him effortlessly and slammed him onto the pavement below with a resounding thud.
"I'm not just a kick-boxer!!" Sogiita sang.
As the impact reverberated through the air, the young silver man let out a pained cry. The force of the collision compressed the surrounding air, heating it up until it crackled with energy. Christian Rosencreutz's head struck the ground with a velocity equivalent to mach 20, igniting his body in flames upon impact.
This move is called a suplex.
Struggling to regain his bearings, Rosencreutz muttered in a daze, "The House of the Holy Spirit...the seven walls..."
"You said it yourself, didn't you?" the gutsy boy retorted, cocky. "My power and my guts can break through your impenetrable walls. And I can spread those same guts to the world around me."
With a grimace, Christian Rosencreutz acknowledged the truth of the boy's words. "Your uncontrolled AIM field grants you the ability to imbue non-organic objects with the properties of your virus," he observed, his voice tinged with begrudging admiration. "Allowing them to bypass even the defenses of the seven-walled tomb.”
"A virus? Don't be so gutless, CRC," the #7 retorted, his voice filled with defiance. "This battleground ruled by wills is a two-way road between you and me."
Christian Rosencreutz raised an eyebrow at the boy's words. "Hey Gemstone, you could've killed me if I weren't a superhuman with an idealized body that accomplished The Great Work and crossed the Ungrund, what then short-stack?" he questioned while fitting an insult against his height.
Even without the seven-walled tomb or sheets of diamonds Rosencreutz was cartoonishly durable.
"Sorry, old man," Sogiita replied, his tone tinged with annoyance. "I might've gotten carried away, but I know it'll take more than that to kill you. No matter how many heads you regrow, like Hydra, I will not give up until I've completed all my labors."
"Mhm, so you do know your mythology," CRC remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice. "The Lernaean Hydra, or simply Hydra, is a serpentine lake monster in Greek and Roman mythology. Its lair was the lake of Lerna in the Argolid, known as an entrance to the Underworld. In the canonical myth, the monster is slain by Heracles as part of his Twelve Labors."
"Yeah, I know," Sogiita replied confidently. "I studied the tales of great gutsy heroes in school.”
"So, short-stack," Christian Rosencreutz began, his voice carrying a hint of scholarly interest. “Have you ever considered the parallels between our battle and ancient Near Eastern religions?”
Sogiita listened intently. "Are you saying you see yourself as a god of war or a hunter?" he inquired.
CRC chuckled softly. "In a sense, indeed. We are both assuming roles in this grand theater, are we not? I, the Hydra, and you, Heracles."
He continued, "Consider the Second Labor of Heracles. Eurystheus, the king of Tiryns, sent Heracles to slay the Hydra, which Hera had raised specifically to defeat him. Heracles approached the swamp near Lake Lerna, where the Hydra dwelled. To protect himself from the poisonous fumes, he covered his mouth and nose with a cloth and shot flaming arrows into the Hydra's lair, causing it to emerge and terrorize the surrounding villages."
CRC paused, drawing a comparison. “In our own clash, the flaming arrows that Heracles hurled at the Hydra find their echo in your lightning-fast fists, generating shockwaves that ignite the air with their speed and force. It's as though each strike of yours is akin to shooting a flaming arrow, much like Heracles did.”
“Huh? Are you suggesting we're caught in a time loop? That some enigmatic group, like the Bridge Builders Cabal, manipulated events to resurrect you, pitting us against each other in a timeless struggle? I've never met them, and I'm certainly no child of Zeus. Are you implying that our battle will be distorted into a Greek legend by a meddling time traveler?!” frantically asked the boy.
“No, no, you simpleton. This world contains synchronicities. In Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian mythology, the war and hunting god Ninurta was celebrated for his deeds. The Angim credited him with slaying eleven monsters during an expedition to the mountains, including a seven-headed serpent, possibly identical to the Mushmahhu, and Bashmu, whose constellation was later associated with the Hydra by the Greeks. In Babylonian contexts, the Hydra's constellation is also linked to Marduk's dragon, the Mushhushshu.”
“Uhhh….” That shounen boy was dumbfounded.
"Hhm, I suppose calling it a time loop isn't technically wrong," Christian Rosencreutz began, his tone measured. "I'll break it down from history class and reconstruct it through the lens of the occult. Historic recurrence, young Gemstone, is the phenomenon of events echoing throughout time. Whether it's the rise and fall of empires or the repetitive cycles within a single society, it's all part of this grand plan that was decided when Adam ate the forbidden fruit."
The #7 with his guard up but curious listened: "So, history just keeps repeating itself? Just a series of coincidences?"
Christian Rosencreutz shook his head sagely. "There is no such thing as coincidences. Take, for instance, the Doctrine of Eternal Recurrence, pondered upon by thinkers like Heinrich Heine and Friedrich Nietzsche. While it's said that 'history repeats itself,' it's not quite that simple. Rather, these recurrences stem from identifiable circumstances and chains of causality."
He continued, his voice carrying the weight of centuries of philosophical debate. "Consider the phenomenon of multiple independent discoveries in science or the reproducible findings in natural and social sciences. These recurrences, whether in the form of rigorous experimentation or comparative research, are vital to our understanding of the world."
Christian Rosencreutz paused, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. "G.W. Trompf, in his seminal work, The Idea of Historical Recurrence in Western Thought, illustrates the recurring patterns of political thought and behavior since ancient times. Through these patterns, history offers us invaluable lessons, often leading to a sense of resonance or déjà vu."
Their words reverberated like a challenge to destiny itself, a testament to their unyielding determination in the face of adversity.
That Gemstone didn't surrender his characteristic fervor. "History echoing through time, huh? It's like the universe itself is stuck on repeat, and we're just caught in the cycle. But you know what? If history's gonna keep looping, then let's break the pattern! Let's smash through those chains of causality and forge our own path. Who cares about déjà vu? We'll create something entirely new, something that'll shake the very foundations of this world and we’ll do it with guts!!!" He defied that silver monster.
But Rosencreutz wasn't finished. He pulled out his Crystal World Map.
The supposedly old man listened intently to that boy's impassioned response, his expression inscrutable behind his clairvoyant card. After a moment of contemplation, he spoke.
“Gemstone, you speak of breaking free from the chains of repetition, of forging a new destiny against the backdrop of eternal return. It is a noble aspiration, indeed. However, consider this: eternal return is not merely a philosophical concept or a whimsical notion of fate. It is the very fabric of existence, woven into the nature of time itself.” He pressed his finger on the Miniature Garden and a 3D holographic projection flew out—
“In ancient times, the Stoics grappled with the idea, seeing in it both a sense of cosmic order and a challenge to individual agency. Augustine and others recoiled from its implications, fearing it as a negation of free will and salvation. And yet, Nietzsche, in his brilliance, dared to confront the concept anew, exploring its depths in the crucible of human consciousness.”
Didn't Aleister Crowley say that he had to shatter every single phase in order to eliminate the concept of fate?
“I will shatter every last phase and put an end to all mysticism. It can be helped and we need not restrain our tears and bite our lip when faced with tragedy. I will bring back the pure world in which everyone can feel anger like normal and question it all like normal!!”
And didn't Coronzon appear to break down all the phases including the Pure World?
Partial destruction would be meaningless. If anything remains and an eternal distortion is born from that, then it will all happen again. I will eliminate the ten spheres, the twenty-two pathways, and the hidden eleventh symbol. Collisions between phases? Sparks and spray? You cannot save anyone if you only treat those symptoms. All of the fundamental clogs must be removed. All so we can pass the baton to whoever comes next.”
“Sparks and Sprays…” Rosencreutz muttered.
“Eh?” The #7 didn't quite hear him.
"Beside time stands fate, cruelty's steadfast herald. In the silent chambers of the soul, whispers the most profound wisdom. Humanity, in its folly, neglected to exalt life's splendor, its radiance, its grandeur. Truly, it is a rare gift to comprehend the forces that shape our existence.” That magician spoke in despair.
“From the moment man ate the fruit of knowledge, he guaranteed your species’ failure... Entrusting his future to the whims of fate, man clutches to a flickering hope. Yet, within the Miniature Garden lies the key to all revelation. Beyond the well-trodden path lies the ultimate terminus. It matters not who you are; Death is the sole certainty awaiting all.” he finished with scorn.
Shokuhou Misaki was currently linked to Sogiita Gunha so was overhearing the entire conversation.
“Are you okay, Leader?” asked Kamijou back at the hospital.
“Yeah…” she responded.
“Really?” Mikoto breathed a white sigh. “It wasn’t the shock of seeing their school destroyed. Nor was it the fear of having those rioters attack. …They’re afraid of their own power. And after learning how exactly to use that power to survive, they’re not sure they can just switch it off and return to their normal lives. So their gears have ground to a halt.” Tokiwadai Middle School was a prestigious esper development school.
The young ladies registered there were Level 3 at the lowest and Level 5 at the highest.
Almost all of the students had a power that surpassed that of a blade or handgun if used properly, but something had become twisted.
Yes.
“A lot of them weren’t really sure why they were training their powers.”
Shokuhou breathed a white breath, wrapped her own arms around herself, and rubbed her thighs together.
Why are you studying?
How many people could give a proper answer to that question? Because my parents told me to, because my teachers taught me to, because that’s how the world works. Those would be most people’s answers. Even the students with a clear vision of their future would only have something vague like “for the entrance exams” or “for my future”.
Only a small handful would have specific puzzle pieces in mind, such as “I need to learn how to use this equation so I can build a rocket”.
The young ladies of Tokiwadai Middle School were the same.
What if the very gears that humans have…their actions, reactions, inactions were all the result of some transcendental entity hovering above.
Like God or The Devil watching over humanity’s reality sphere and ordering around his system like everyone was a pre-programmed NPC that had specific events occur to them to get them to develop in the way that they did and determined their genetic bloodline that composed their psyche?
Is there truly a free will?
It was said that in order for you to break out of the system of society that the working class was stuck in you had to climb to the top where the corrupt elites resided.
Imagine Breaker negated sparks, Aleister Crowley could see through the veil thanks to Holy Guardian Angel Aiwass, Great Demon Coronzon could always see the cogs.
Christian Rosencreutz could view the entire world through his Miniature Garden.
The rest of humanity was at the mercy of their own destinies.
A Guardian Angel wouldn't arrive to save a parent’s child from fate every single time.
"Okay, nice poetry, can we get back to fighting already?" asked the #7 impatiently.
"Seems I got carried away," the old man conceded with a nod. "The synchronicities of this world, akin to the astral configurations in astrology, serve as an example of synchronicity, according to Jung. It describes circumstances that appear meaningfully related yet lack a causal connection, much like the parallel relationship between celestial and terrestrial phenomena. Synchronicity experiences entail subjective encounters where coincidences between events in one's mind and the external world may lack a clear causal link but still harbor an unknown connection.”
"Ah," Sogiita chimed in, recalling his philosophy class discussions. "We talked about synchronicity back then. Jung thought it was a good thing for the mind, but said it could get dicey in psychosis. He cooked up this theory as a kind of mental link between those meaningful coincidences, calling it a noncausal principle. This term came about in the late 1920s, and then he teamed up with physicist Wolfgang Pauli to dive deeper. Their work, The Interpretation of Nature and the Psyche, dropped in 1952. They were big on this idea that these connections, even the ones that don't seem to have a cause, could still teach us a lot about how our minds and the world work."
“Mhm, you know more than you lead on, Gemstone.” pondered CRC.
“Oh this? My teachers say I'm not good at remembering speeches hahaha…” The #7 looked slightly nervous. “You know, analytical psychologists really push for folks to get what these experiences mean to boost their awareness instead of just feeding into superstitions. But funny thing is, when clients spill about their synchronicity experiences, they often feel like no one's really hearing them out, or getting where they're coming from. And hey, having a bunch of these meaningful coincidences flying around can sometimes ring the schizo bell. Delusions aren't healthy.”
Where was this conversation going?
"Delusion! Hah! That's a good one coming from you," CRC fired back.
"The real delusion is thinking humanity isn't worth a damn," Sogiita shot back, pulling out some info from Johansen and Osman. "Some scientists think coincidences are just random flukes, but counselors and psychoanalysts reckon there's more to it, like some deep-down stuff needing to come out.”
"Delusion! Hah! That's a good one coming from you," CRC fired back.
"The real delusion is thinking humanity isn't worth a darn," Sogiita shot back, pulling out some info from Johansen and Osman. "Some scientists think coincidences are just random flukes, but counselors and psychoanalysts reckon there's more to it, like some deep-down stuff needing to come out. Unconscious material to be expressed."
Rosencreutz interjected, his expression reflecting a mix of confusion and concern. "Aleister Crowley's actions have left a lasting scar on this world and this city," he began, his voice weighted with solemnity. “The vacuum-like dichotomy between magic and science created by the use of that colossal psychotronic weapon, has damaged this world's memory irreparably.”
Psychotronic weapon?
The Archetype Controller?
He paused, his gaze piercing as he continued, "Jung's exploration of synchronicity as evidence of the paranormal paved the way for further inquiry, notably by Koestler and the subsequent embrace of these ideas by the New Age movement.”
Sogiita shrugged, "Some folks say synchronicity is impossible to test or prove, so it gets labeled as pseudoscience. Jung even acknowledged that these synchronicity events are basically just coincidences, statistically speaking. But hey, who's to say what's really going on without some solid scientific studies, right?"
"Dubious as his experiments may have been," CRC interrupted, "Jung believed in a connection between synchronicity and the paranormal, drawing parallels to the uncertainty principle and works by parapsychologist Joseph B. Rhine.” CRC posed a thought-provoking question, "How are we to recognize acausal combinations of events, since it is obviously impossible to examine all chance happenings for their causality? The answer lies in the fact that acausal events are most readily expected where a causal connection appears inconceivable upon closer reflection. It's impossible, with our current resources, to explain ESP or meaningful coincidences as mere phenomena of energy. This challenges the very notion of cause and effect, as these events occur simultaneously rather than in a linear cause-and-effect manner. Hence, I have coined the term 'synchronicity' to describe this phenomenon, placing it on equal footing with causality as a principle of explanation."
Getting closer to that Gemstone, CRC emphasized, "Esper abilities cannot be fully understood with science alone. They defy traditional cause-and-effect explanations, instead representing a convergence of factors that create a quantum phenomenon affecting both the micro and macro. Why were there the naturally gifted and the naturally ungifted?”
Why did some students get praised for their abilities while others needed to work harder?
Others among them would have worked every hour of their free time and not progressed anywhere in this city’s leveling curriculum.
Why did this city present such an unfair and unpredictable status quo of potential?
Why did hard work barely matter in a city of empirical evidence to record any possible progress?
Sogiita Gunha wasn't a normal Level 5 but he wasn't always this powerful. He went through the curriculum same as everyone but if the outside conditions for his Gemstone ability to manifest didn't form in the exact way that it did, in such an acausal form then would he even be here to challenge Christian Rosencreutz right now?
Everything just happened to fall right into place.
All those puzzle pieces that would lead to this moment here and now.
Was it all just talent? God picking a fool as his champion?
The #7 leaned back, absorbing CRC's words with a thoughtful expression. "So, what you're saying is, there's this whole other layer to reality that we can't quite wrap our heads around," he summarized, nodding slowly. "I mean, it's like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands—slippery and elusive."
He chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "Historic recurrence, synchronicities, all these things—they're like pieces of a puzzle scattered across this substantial reality. And sometimes, they just... click into place, right? It's like the universe has its own plan, and we're just along for the ride."
That bandana wearing boy's gaze drifted, lost in thought. "You know, CRC, it's funny," he remarked, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Here we are, with all our powers and potential, but at the end of the day, we're still grappling with the same questions as everyone else. Talent, destiny, divine intervention—maybe they're all just different sides of the same coin."
He shrugged, the weight of the philosophical musings settling over the broken city. "Who knows? Maybe God does have a sense of humor, after all.” that boy chuckled.
There was a deep silence between them.
Rosencreutz’ response was swift and resolute, his tone filled with certainty. "All this ‘universe has a plan’ banter is just a distraction from the inevitable," he declared, his eyes narrowing. "We can debate the nature of us being all-powerful yet struggling with mortal issues until the sun burns out, but it won't change the fact that our fate was sealed upon the knowledge Adam learned."
“To think so many trivialities have developed while this old man wasn’t watching. Heh heh. Then I should assume the thread of fate has again begun to weave its strange connections between myself and some unknown human.”
He rose forward, his movements purposeful. "It's time to put an end to this dance of platitudes," CRC continued, his voice cold and unwavering. "We'll settle this the only way that somewhat matters—through objective action in this grand play."
“Silence, preserved doll. Illusionists are meant to remain silent. That is all we magicians are: wielders of substanceless illusions. Opening your mouth serves only to break the illusion.”
With a flicker of resolve in his eyes, he locked gazes with the #7. "I am Hydra, Gemstone," he said, his voice carrying a hint of challenge. "Our battle ends now.” CRC opened both his palms and began shooting at their surroundings, the buildings, the pavement, the apartments, the rubble.
It probably wasn't random as it seemed to create a pattern.
“Huh are you getting senile old man?” asked the young Gemstone.
“What fun. I never imagined someone would bother diligently polishing their skills this far while knowing it is all essentially an illusion. Didn’t you ever feel silly going to the effort?”
Rosencreutz dropped to all fours, his rosy cross sword gripped tightly in his right hand.
He moved—
“Arrgh!” Sogiita yelled amidst the relentless and precise and precise strikes from that golden cross. “Old man?” he asked.
That magician didn't say anything.
That silver man’s movements became more beastly.
Faster.
Stronger.
Fiercer.
Something new was beginning to manifest.
With each strike of his higher dimensional blade that old man’s blows seemed infused with an otherworldly energy.
The wounds inflicted by his weapon burned with a venomous intensity, sending searing pain coursing through Sogiita's body.
That boy grimaced as the poison from that silver man’s strikes surged through his being, each wound feeling like it was ablaze with venomous fire.
"Damn... That burns…like a killer hornet’s sting," he muttered through clenched teeth, his voice strained with effort. Gritting, he fought to maintain his focus, despite the agony threatening to overwhelm him.
Was this another application of The Four Stages? Citrinitas? No, there was nothing yellow here, it was more like a dirty purple.
But it wasn't just the physical damage that posed a threat.
As the Rosy Cross leader leaped on all fours his movements took on an almost erratic quality, he was bouncing from one building to another with an animalistic agility.
With each jump, a shockwave rippled through the air, carrying with it a palpable sense of dread.
Something was spreading.
The air around them seemed to thicken with a toxic miasma. The #7 struggled to breathe, the noxious fumes clouding his senses.
Like a chaotic monster’s venomous poison breath.
The once-clear air now felt thick and suffocating.
Gasping for breath, the bandana boy struggled to maintain his focus amidst the swirling chaos.
His vision blurred, his movements sluggish as he fought against the oppressive atmosphere.
Blinded that heroic boy could only fire a flame arrow without his sight.
His fists striking out with all the strength he could muster. Igniting in that poisonous compressed air.
It seemed to be flammable like a dragon’s breath.
???
At the hospital, Shokuhou's voice carried a mix of surprise and relief. “He caused real damage.” she exclaimed.
Kamijou turned his attention to her, intrigued. “What happened?”
“It's hard to see clearly, but it looks like the #7 managed to rip off CRC's left arm,” she explained. “Though, I'd say it was more of a lucky shot. I can read he acted on pure instinct.”
Kamijou nodded, a hint of melancholy in his tone. “Yeah... the psychic link and all.”
Had the #7 Level 5 given up on the old man?
Back on the battlefield, Sogiita cursed under his breath. “Dammit... Sorry, old man,” he muttered. “I was aiming to hit your whole body to maximize the surface area, maybe break a few bones as a casualty. We can probably get your arm reattached at the hospital. Heaven Canceller has enough guts to even fix me.”
It was clear—he hadn't given up.
It was an accidental strike of his arm.
“As each ghastly head was severed from its serpentine form, dreadfully, two more writhed forth from the abyss.” a cryptic voice amidst the chaos spoke.
Wasn't it said that the Hydra’s lair was the lake of Lerna in the Argolid.
Lerna was reputed to be an entrance to the Underworld.
The abyss.
The Ungrund.
There is no limit to the depth of the Alcyonian Lake, and I know of nobody who by any contrivance has been able to reach the bottom of it since not even Nero, who had ropes made several stades long and fastened them together, tying lead to them, and omitting nothing that might help his experiment, was able to discover any limit to its depth. This, too, I heard. The water of the lake is, to all appearance, calm and quiet but, although it is such to look at, every swimmer who ventures to cross it is dragged down, sucked into the depths, and swept away.
The keeper of the gate to the Underworld that lay in the waters of Lerna was the Hydra.
The serpentine Lake Monster.
“Rosencreutz……?” The #7 muttered.
That magician chuckled ominously. "Indeed, young Heracles," he intoned, his voice echoing with a bizarre resonance. “The Lernaean Hydra's curse is upon you now.” as he said that he ripped off a bit of his arm that was cuterarised and it began bleeding.
Anna Sprengel’s blood was said to create unknown miracles when spilled.
Christian Rosencreutz’ blood was so virulent that even its scent was deadly.
As Sogiita Gunha glanced at his severed arm lying on the ground, a creeping sense of horror enveloped him. "All fate is a curse and that curse," he murmured, his words barely audible over the din of battle, "extends even to my severed limb.”
Christian Rosencreutz’ left arm grew back.
No.
Two new arms grew in its place.
The arm was fully functioning with no defects.
Although one of the arms appeared somewhat scaly and lanky like a serpent.
It had human anatomy but something was abnormal here.
He almost looked like a spider as he emerged from the poisonous fog as he remained on all fours.
“So short-stack. Are you ready to complete your final labor: Crossing the abyss!!!” He challenged that boy with his cross sword facing him.
"Boss, what's up? You look kinda stuck," Kamijou asked, his tone concerned.
Two students were sitting together in the waiting room at a hospital.
"—abyss, Hydra, curse, synchronicities, Historic recurrence." she replied, her words carrying a weight of unease.
"Huh? What? Can you give me the lowdown?" Kamijou prodded, his urgency evident.
"Can't quite wrap my head around it. But what I can tell you is that after CRC started talking about these esoteric concepts, he leveled up his power ability, managed to seriously hurt the #7 despite me cranking up all his stats for the win condition," the honey-blonde girl explained, frustration creeping into her voice.
"Can you beam all that stuff into my head, like a memory download? You're a psychological esper, right? My right hand won't mess with it, and we've done the telepathy thing before," Kamijou suggested.
"Memory download's not quite it, but I can send you a recording," she clarified.
"Got it," Kamijou muttered as he absorbed the info.
"You got any ideas to help the #7’s situation ability, Kamijou-san? We're kinda desperate here," she asked.
"I wish Index was still here, dammit.” he lamented, “But you know about magic, right?" he queried.
"Yeah, people converting their delusions into reality right?," she admitted.
"Well, magic's not just about delusions; it can be tied up to the whole world. Not sure if it's relevant, but based on Idol Theory, Rosencreutz might be pulling in 'energy’ from the Greek 'phase’ of Heracles for an edge," Kamijou theorized.
"Like a chessboard flip?" Shokuhou Misaki inquired, her brow furrowed with concern.
"No, more like... imagine you're playing checkers with a buddy, and you're totally crushing it because you're a checkers pro. Then suddenly, your buddy switches it up and challenges you to an arm wrestling match, and you lose because, well, arm wrestling isn't your forte," Kamijou Touma explained, trying to paint a vivid picture.
"So, by taking on the role of the Hydra from Greek myth, he's essentially forcing the #7 into the role of Heracles? But didn't Heracles defeat the Hydra?" Shokuhou sought clarification.
"Yeah, but..." Kamijou recalled the tale from the movies he'd seen. "Lichas gave Heracles a shirt soaked in the Hydra's poisonous blood from his arrows, which ends up killing him by tearing his flesh down to the bone," he elaborated.
"It was actually Nessus seeking vengeance and tricking Deianira into giving it to Heracles as a gift, delivered by Lichas without disclosing the tunic's lethal bloodstained secret from the Lernaean Hydra, but you're right," Shokuhou corrected gently. "So, Rosencreutz is harnessing the power of that legend to slowly poison the #7?"
"Not literal. I mean the poison is real but his slashes do significant harm now so it's more like shifting the paradigm in his favor…shifting his position.” The spiky-haired boy wasn't in the mood to explain Phases, “Earlier, he mentioned Sogiita spreading his 'virus' throughout the world. A virus isn't a poison in the traditional sense, but the Rosicrucians originally sought to create a universal cure for all illnesses. Now, CRC is spreading a literal poison, positioning himself as the ultimate predator and his opponents as prey rather than his savior role, the paradigm has been shifted." Kamijou concluded, his voice tinged with gravity.
“So he’s changed the environment to get the win condition? The #7’s durability doesn't matter in the face of the world being forced to go about a certain way because of Rosencreutz stage play?” The girl asked.
“Yeah…if things keep going this way…Sogiita will….goddamnit….” The spiky haired boy swore. “I can't let someone else die after all that's happened but I feel like if I go out there I really will kill him…” he muttered that last bit while clenching his right fist that began shaking uncontrollably.
The girl’s eyes seemed confused. “What did you say?” The honey blonde middle schooler asked.
“Nothing, just mumbling to myself.” he spat out.
That boy and girl could never come to the right conclusion on their own without the aid of former Magic God Othinus by their side.
“Did you think I had challenged you with no hope of succeeding, you cesspool? The magic born on earth is bound by the directions based on the earth’s magnetic field and by the density and composition of the air which is determined by air pressure which is in turn influenced by gravity. That is inevitable when you are focused on the cardinal directions of north, south, east, and west or on the basic elements of fire, water, wind, and earth. But what you will find upon leaving the atmosphere is an unknown. Coronzon, are you sure there will be no malfunction in the magic giving you control of Avatar Lola? And before, my power was bound by the puny speck named earth which failed to become a black hole or even a sun, but once we enter outer space, just how far do you think that power will be released? I do not mind at all that I will lose the support of Academy City.”
Well the boy was half right.
“Let us test it out, you cuspidor. On one side, we have you using the planet and bound to an avatar. On the other, we have me exposed and freed from the planet. Now, who will be the star of this show?”
Christian Rosencreutz did not shoot at his surroundings for no reason.
The battlefield transformed into Rosencreutz's canvas, resembling the legendary battleground of Lerna where Heracles once clashed with the Hydra.
Yes.
He didn't unleash his powers randomly; every action was deliberate.
In the magical side of Idol Theory, mimicking an object, event, or person allowed one to tap into a fraction of its power.
And that even applied to locations that essentially worked as stage plays.
Idol Theory was so absolute that even the basic cross held a portion of the son of God’s power.
As Above, So Below.
As Below, So Above.
Macro to micro.
Micro to macro.
And the macrocosm and the microcosm are always linked.

So caveat right off the bat that this is just my current concept that I'm still workshopping, and this won't be one size fits all for all tables and parties etc etc.
I really like the campaign, I think it lays out a great foundation for a truly memorable campaign that I can't wait to start. That said, I also really hate how it's Central Hub and then a series of fetch quests with little to motivate the players, especially since the fetch quests are to get an item that's not even needed to destroy Vecna, so it can feel punitive unnecessarily. I know a lot of folks have put forth their own ideas on how to improve these things, this is just my take after having read the book and speaking with a bunch of folks.
Prologue/Setting:

• Evernight is cool, but the book wants you to complete that portion, give the players the Vecna Link, and then do a time skip. Instead I plan on running that chapter as part of Tomb of Annihilation, which my party will be running to go from levels 1-10 before Vecna truly starts. The players will be unaware of their Vecna Link until they're summoned to Sigil.
• Most interplanar travel is limited due to Vecna's unraveling of the universe but powerful NPCs aren't yet sure why. Alustriel deduces that she can still travel due to being a Chosen of Mystra, but rather than go hopping around the Multiverse herself, she's secretly using her Sanctum to collect other powerful beings to try and empower and stop Vecna. The players can travel because of the Vecna Link, and Kas can also travel because the Dark Powers give him the power to do so. This is why the players must take on the quest rather than the Wizards themselves, Kas has to pretend he's Mordenkainen and Alustriel is using all her power to keep a window open.
• The Dark Powers want Kas to defeat Vecna so that he can be their pawn and they can feed off of the souls he enslaves.
• MordenKasnen will suggest the players find the pieces of the Rod as it is rumored to be the key to unlocking a vault holding the Sword of Kas, which can defeat Vecna. This way the players aren't totally wasting their time trying to find it and they still have the Sword as a goal.
• If players die, they can resurrect with the power of Vecna but at a cost. They will gain a new element of madness and Vecna will become aware of his power being sapped. From this point on, he will keep an eye on the party, growing increasingly concerned as they grow in power. He can't leave his base due to the ritual, but he will start haunting their dreams, sending members of his Cult, and generally trying to impede them if he sees them as a potential threat.

Underdark:

• Honestly no major notes, I like how this is laid out and always enjoy running around the Underdark. The players will get their first piece and then excitedly return to Sigil to start on the second. I plan to keep this portion short since it's not as exciting for many players as going to other worlds.

Spelljammer:

• The players go to the Astral Sea to try and retrieve their first piece, although I'm going to have them sail the high seas for a while first so they'll need to actually navigate to the dead god and all that.
• The rod piece is locked in a chest that only Inda can open. She is willing to help the party if they fix her prosthetic wing. Unless your players have an artificer in the party, consider pushing them to find one in Eberron, which may be where Inda first got the wing made. My plan is to actually keep the players from getting this Rod piece until after Eberron.

Eberron:

• This will be the first world wherein the players run into members of the Cult of Vecna. I plan to replace the Lord of Blades' followers with Cultists, or at least have them work together. The cult will try to steal the rod piece before the Party can.
• I'm giving Mercy an engineer in her party of pilgrims that could repare the angel wing (see Spelljammer notes). They'll agree to do so if the party assists with the Cyran veterans.
• Kalyth and the Cyran veterans meanwhile will know where the players can find a decent Docent.
• The host of Landro should be a vast supply of knowledge, but not infinite. Maybe he can tell the party of the rumored Hand and Eye of Vecna (which I'll have in Avernus and Greyhawk, respectively). He may also have heard of the Amber Temple in Ravenloft or some other important info.

Ravenloft:

• I have a lot of ideas to change this portion and I haven't fully settled down on one yet. Here are a few of my thoughts which I may combine or select from:
  • Rather than fight at Death House, I may start my party in the village of Barovia where they meet Ismark, who suggests that if they seek guidance they find Madame Eva. She then conducts a Tarroka reading that points the party to the Amber Temple.
  • Madame Eva may also read that they can find allies in Vallaki or Krezk (or wherever you want) where they can meet Esmeralda and van Richten who tell them lore of Kas and the Domains of Dread.
  • The rod piece would be located in the Statue to the God of Secrets (Vecna) in the Amber Temple, protected by the Arcanaloth.
  • As the players leave, they're confronted by Strahd, who has been watching their actions. If for some reason the players have deduced that they're fighting Kas, then Strahd would be willing to let them leave Barovia and take the Rod piece to punish the other vampire lord, whom he finds annoying. Otherwise he tries to claim the piece, they have to fight him, upon his defeat they can leave the mists.
  • I think I'll have Sarusanda be a member of the Vecna Cult disguised as an Inquisitor. She might lure the players into Death House to try and have them killed amongst its traps, thus allowing the cult to steal their assembled rod pieces.
• Like I said, my thoughts here are still messy and I'm figuring out what would fit best for the party.

Krynn:

• After their defeat in Ravenloft, the cult will move back and try to refocus their efforts not on the Rod, but on trying to reclaim the Hand and Eye of Vecna. As such, they will be mysteriously absent from Krynn in such a way taht should make the party paranoid.
• I plan to move the Rod piece to Dargaard Keep and have the characters showdown with Soth. I like Teremini and her plotline, but I think it might work better as a precursor to the main event.
• The players will find MordenKasnen speaking with Soth in a heated argument, trying to get the Death Knight to give him the rod piece and join his side. When discovered, Kas will attempt to flee, but he leaves behind his amulet that goes to his homeworld (Oerth). Before he goes, he destroys the portal to Sigil, leaving the players only one option to escape Krynn.

Oerth:

• Oerth is the homeworld of Kas, Mordenkainen, and Vecna himself, so this will be a chance for them to learn some lore. I plan on the players being transported to Kas's old stronghold, which still has some broken down statues of Kas in his hey day. They will have to navigate to the Tomb from Keoland. This way, when the players go to the unreality, they see the same setting but with vecna statues, etc.
• Acererak will have already made an appearance in my game, since we're going through Tomb of Annihilation first. As such, Acererak will be the final boss of this setting.
• Acererak will have gained the Eye of Vecna during his travels, but his distrust of Vecna means that he doesn't like carrying it on his person. As such, he has put the eye into Rerak. The cult will navigate the dungeon along with the players, forcing occasional run ins. the final fight should be large and epic and have 3-4 competing factions (Players, Cult, Acererak, and Rerak if he's turned against Acererak)
• Once Acererak does fall, he makes an escape through a portal to Avernus, leaving the Rod piece behind. The cultists will try to convince the players to take the Rod and they'll take the Eye.

Avernus:

• Avernus will be home to the Hand of Vecna, in possession of Arkhan. The cult is desperate to get the Hand and is willing to work with the players to get it. Arkhan will offer the players access to Tiamat and the Rod piece if they side with him and destroy the Cultists. The players will have to choose either side or attempt to fight both of them at the same time.
• Once again, the cult is willing to let the party take the Rod if they get the Hand.
• Keep Windfall and her motivations, as they're great in the game. If the players aid Arkhan, he'll bring them to Tiamat but in chains.
• There's a spelljammer in the casino that an unlucky patron gambled away in the past, the players can use this to get back to Sigil after claiming the last Rod piece.

Betrayal:

• Once players return to Sigil with the completed Rod, Kas reappears in the Sanctum and attempts to steal it. Big fight, Alustriel and Tasha join the party, Kas escapes quickly into Pandemos, ideally with the Rod.
• Alustriel and Tasha suggest the players follow him so that they can still regain the Sword of Kas and defeat Vecna. They go to Pandemos and there I go back to book to pretty much run as written, apart from beefing up Vecna's stat block significantly, especially if he does regain the Hand and Eye.

Again, it's not for everyone but I think I'm going to try and go about it in a similar vein to this. My notes on this are still scattered and I'm purposely not trying to iron out every detail, since of course the players will have a lot of agency on how precisely this all turns out. Still, feel free to offer some feedback on what you think may or may not work.

Hey Reddit fam! Whether you're a seasoned power chair warrior or a new rider hitting the pavement for the first time, navigating public spaces can feel daunting. Fear not, fellow adventurers! This guide is packed with tips and tricks to transform your power chair into a trusty steed for conquering the concrete jungle (or park, museum, airport – you name it!).
Prep Work Makes Perfect:

• Know Your Ride: Familiarize yourself with your power chair's turning radius, battery life, and terrain handling. This helps you plan outings efficiently. Need a refresher on your chair's quirks? Consult the manual or chat with your therapist/provider.
• Map It Out: Before you roll out, research accessibility features like ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms at your destination. Google Maps and other accessibility apps like Wheelmap can be lifesavers. Pro tip: Look for reviews from other wheelchair users – they often have hidden gem insights!
• Weather the Elements: Be prepared for Mother Nature's whims. Rain covers keep you dry, while sunshades protect you from the heat. Remember, extreme weather can affect battery life, so plan accordingly.

Conquering Different Environments:
Airports: Air travel with a power chair requires some advanced planning. Contact both the airline and airport beforehand to arrange assistance with check-in, security, and boarding. Most airports offer these services, but a heads-up ensures a smoother journey. Don't forget to check the airline's policy on transporting power chairs, especially regarding battery types. Lithium batteries are generally okay, but lead-acid batteries may require special arrangements.
Public Transit: Many buses, trains, and subways have made significant strides in accessibility. Research accessible routes and boarding procedures specific to your chosen mode of transport. Don't be shy to ask for assistance from transit staff if you need help – that's what they're there for!
Retail Therapy (or Errands): Modern shopping centers and stores are usually designed with accessibility in mind. However, navigating crowded aisles or reaching high shelves can still be tricky. Most stores offer assistance services, so don't hesitate to inquire at customer service if you need help grabbing that awesome pair of shoes on the top shelf.
Foodie Adventures: Craving a delicious meal out? Call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm accessibility. Ask about table height, aisle width, and restroom accessibility. Online reviews and recommendations from other wheelchair users can also steer you towards the most accommodating places. Bonus tip: Mention your dietary restrictions at the same time – who doesn't love a one-stop-shop for information? The DASH from Travel Buggy would be a perfect lightweight chair for this occasion.
Cultural Escapades: Museums, theaters, and cultural venues often provide accommodations like wheelchair seating, accessible restrooms, and sometimes even guided tours specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Always contact the venue in advance to arrange any necessary accommodations and inquire about potential discounts for disabled visitors.
Nature Calls: Parks, zoos, and outdoor recreational areas vary in accessibility. National parks often have accessible trails and facilities, but it's always best to check the venue's website or contact them directly to get an idea of what to expect and plan your visit accordingly.
Overcoming Obstacles:
Accessibility Gaps: Despite advancements, you might still encounter barriers. Don't let that discourage you! Seek alternative routes or politely ask for assistance. Don't be afraid to advocate for change by providing feedback to establishments. Remember, even a small complaint can make a big difference for future visitors. For an extremely compact and durable chair you'll want to check out the AEROLUX by Travel Buggy.
Battery Life Woes: To avoid getting stranded, keep an eye on your power chair's battery level. Plan your activities within the driving range – like the impressive 15.5-mile range of the Travel Buggy CITY 2 PLUS. Knowing the locations of charging stations can also be a lifesaver, especially if you're planning a longer outing.
Crowd Control: Navigating crowded spaces can be a test of patience (and sometimes, horn skills!). Be assertive but courteous as you move through groups. Let people know you're there to avoid accidental bumps. Some users find attaching a flag to their chair or using a small horn helps in gaining attention.
Tech to the Rescue: Embrace technology to make navigating public spaces easier! Apps like Wheelmap offer detailed accessibility information for various locations, while GPS apps can help you plan the most accessible routes. Smart devices with compatible wheelchairs can even control certain functions, improving maneuverability and comfort.
The Social Side: Interacting with the public is part of navigating spaces. Most people are happy to help if asked politely. However, there's also a need to advocate for yourself. Communicate your needs clearly and politely, and don't be afraid to ask for some space if you need it.
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This one was inspired by a quote that was floating around and fairly popular I’m sure most of you have heard it.
“When you grow up in a burning house, you think the world is also on fire.” Anyway, this is “Love’s Inferno” -REC …
I have always known the burn of devotion. My mother’s molten hands made and raised me
She kept me warm but on edge, never knowing when I would be burned. Her love is like living in an inescapable forest fire.
She takes over my senses, her voice crackles in my ears, spilling her cigarette perfume as it fills my lungs and stings my eyes, and her touch sears my skin to the bone as she envelops me in a hazy hug.
I am so used to the heat of love, feeling it on the backside of my hand through a closed door.
I open the window for cool air, and he’s there,
Pulling me out of my burning house and into his blazing world.
A match to a wick, my pride ignites his ego, our souls melt together, waxy colors of red and blue drip from our lips.
I yearn for the heat of home as his flamed fingers drag across my heart, scarring me forever.
If our destiny is to catch and burn, that won't stop us from bathing together in gasoline and ballroom dancing in an indigo inferno.
Burn blisters form on my hands, hips, and lips as he leads me further into destruction.
When I'm burned and brokenhearted, I’ll crawl back home to sleep at the hearth. My mother waits for me at the door, after a long drag from her cigarette she says.
“Daughters are destined to make the same mistakes as their mothers.”
Smoke flutters from her mouth enticing me inside, I put my pride aside and give in to it as blue lips shiver and I ask for a hit, salivating for the buzz of home.
1 2

I have this old KitchenAid Fridge (KSCS25INSS01) with a defrost problem. I can't afford buying a new fridge right now, and I have to admit that it has been fun to keep it alive this long.
However, I can't figure out why the fridge is not defrosting correctly. It takes about 3 weeks to build all this ice seen in the picture. Then I have to use a heater or a hair dryer to melt it.
I have had other problems with this fridge, so I already replaced 4 relays and a capacitor from the control board (there is one relay left and a couple capacitors that I didn't). That seemed to have resolved the other issues.
I also replaced the thermistor and the defrost thermostat in the freezer. No changes.
The heating element and the fan are working well. It looks like it turns on and I see signs on the first days that it melts some of the ice, but it looks like it can't keep up with it.
I replaced the display board (WP2307037) to no success either.
Any ideas of what could be preventing the defrost system to work properly?

I moved into a new build flat in Cambridge I'm renting a few months ago and its way warmer inside than outside and I'm worried about how it'll be when it gets warmer outside.
Today its 17 degrees outside but 25 degrees in my living room, I was away for 2 days and no electronic on and I still came home to it being 24-25 degrees.
Theres underfloor heating which I turned off weeks ago by putting it on frost protection mode. I havent felt the floor being warm and thermometer shows its on frost mode so I'm confident its off.
The only two windows (bedroom and living room) are East facing but they have black out blinds/curtains over them and its still this warm even at night when its like 10 degrees outside.
Theres an MHVR system which I never had before but its on just running, it has a summer bypass mode which my understanding is it will take in some air from outside and not heat it. I have the indoor temperature set to 19 on this and outside as 14 ( this was the default but I figured it automatically can check the outside temp?) https://www.bpcventilation.com/vent-axia-sentinel-kinetic-bundle
The MHVR is loud so doing something but I dont feel any air coming in/out from the vents in the living room and bathroom but maybe thats normal.
Theres these white vents in the living room which I think are for the MHVR circulation but I dont feel any air coming from them at all but a neighbour told me its very subtle.. https://forum.buildhub.org.uk/uploads/monthly_2019_09/20190930_093518.jpg.9bc42d2af74c15a122e6d181ce817cd2.jpg they look like this
I'm completely confused how it can be staying this warm when its colded outside by quite a bit and doesnt event cool at night. Should I email the renting agency as its getting uncomfortable

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1. Windshield Repair and Replacement: Our specialty lies in repairing minor chips and cracks in your windshield, preventing them from spreading and compromising your safety. If the damage is extensive or irreparable, we also provide professional windshield replacement services using high-quality glass materials that meet or exceed OEM standards.
2. Side Window Repair and Replacement: Whether your side window has been damaged due to an accident, vandalism, or a malfunctioning mechanism, we can swiftly repair or replace it to restore your vehicle's security and aesthetics.
3. Rear Window Replacement: A damaged rear window not only compromises your vehicle's appearance but also poses a security risk. Our expert technicians are equipped to replace rear windows efficiently, ensuring a perfect fit and seal to protect your vehicle's interior from the elements.
4. Sunroof Repair and Replacement: Enjoy the open road with confidence by entrusting us with your sunroof repair and replacement needs. Whether it's a minor adjustment or a complete replacement, we'll ensure that your sunroof operates smoothly and securely.
5. Window Tinting: Enhance your vehicle's privacy, comfort, and aesthetics with our professional window tinting services. We offer a variety of tint shades to suit your preferences while providing protection against harmful UV rays and reducing interior heat buildup.
6. Glass Maintenance and Care: Keep your automotive glass in pristine condition with our regular maintenance and care services. From cleaning and polishing to sealant application, we'll help prolong the lifespan of your glass and maintain optimal visibility on the road.
7. Mobile Services: For your convenience, we offer mobile glass repair and replacement services, bringing our expertise directly to your doorstep or preferred location. Whether you're at home, work, or stuck on the roadside, we'll ensure timely assistance to get you back on the road safely.

At Alex's Auto Glass, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction with every service we provide. Trust us to protect and enhance your vehicle with our superior automotive glass solutions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can meet your needs.

I want a dishwasher like the old school kind. I want it to have a disposal on it to grind up food waste and take it away. (No horrible filter trap like modern ones have.) I want it to have a heating element that actually dries everything, and doesn't leave water on everything in the top rack. I want things bone-dry when the cycle is done, and clean.
Am I just out of luck with modern dishwashers? Should I buy and refurb an old kitchenaid or something?