The community center's small party room buzzed with excitement. A massive Batman-themed cake sat center stage, its fondant Batmobile and Gotham City skyline meticulously crafted. Emi sat at the head of the table, her eyes wide with wonder, surrounded by Sam, Yuna, Gail, Jake, and Marcus.
Jake, still recovering from his injuries, sat in a wheelchair beside his sister. His movements were slow, but his eyes sparkled with joy. Marcus stood nearby, ever vigilant, while Gail adjusted the party decorations.
"Ready?" Sam asked, his hand on the lighter for the candles.
Emi nodded, her Batman comic book collection already stacked neatly beside her. Sam had gone above and beyond, sourcing rare editions and even some signed copies.
"Happy Birthday to you," they began singing, their voices a mix of professional precision and genuine warmth. Yuna's voice was particularly melodic, while Marcus's deep baritone provided a rich undertone.
"Happy Birthday to you," they continued, Jake joining in despite his weakened state. Gail smiled, her usually professional demeanor softened by the celebration.
Emi's eyes sparkled as she prepared to blow out the candles. She took a deep breath, her small frame practically vibrating with excitement.
"Happy Birthday, dear Emi," the group sang, their voices rising together. "Happy Birthday to you!"
With one magnificent breath, Emi blew out all the candles in a single, triumphant moment.
Cheers and applause erupted around her.
The party room filled with cheerful chatter as everyone enjoyed cake. Emi sat at the center, carefully unwrapping presents with excited squeals. Colorful wrapping paper scattered around her as she revealed each gift.
Sam sat in a corner seat, his posture slightly hunched. Bandages peeked out from his neck and arm, a reminder of his recent ordeal. His gaze was distant, lost in thought, seemingly disconnected from the celebration around him.
Jake watched his sister from his wheelchair, a proud smile on his face despite his injuries. Yuna and Marcus chatted nearby, occasionally glancing at Emi's gift-opening spectacle.
Gail noticed Sam sitting alone and approached him. She walked with her characteristic measured stride, her professional demeanor softening slightly in the festive atmosphere.
"What are you thinking about?" Gail asked, standing beside Sam's chair.
Sam's gaze remained fixed on Emi, but his mind was elsewhere. His voice came out soft, almost vulnerable.
"I was useless," he said. "During the entire kidnapping, I could barely protect myself. I was dragged around like a helpless child. Ruby and Jake were the ones who saved me."
Gail listened quietly, her professional demeanor softening with understanding.
"I want to be stronger," Sam continued. "I almost died a few days ago, and I got lucky. I want to be able to defend myself, to protect the people around me. I can't keep relying on others to rescue me."
She nodded, her blue eyes studying him carefully. "Growing stronger takes time, Sam. You can't rush it. Physical training, skill development - these are gradual processes. You'll need to be patient and consistent."
Sam's shoulders slumped. "Patient isn't good enough," he muttered. "I want to be strong now."
Gail placed a gentle hand on Sam's shoulder. "Enjoy the party for now," she said softly. "You're still recovering, remember?"
Sam nodded, but his eyes remained distant. As Gail walked away, rejoining the celebration around Emi, he was left alone with his thoughts.
His mind raced through potential methods of becoming stronger. Artifacts and weapons seemed like an immediate solution. He could visit the Hunter equipment shops, invest in high-quality gear that might give him an edge in combat. The compact pistol and basic assault rifle he'd purchased earlier were just a start.
Sam's fingers traced the edge of his wheelchair, feeling the limitations of his current physical state. He needed more than just equipment. He needed powers that would be genuinely useful - something that could protect him and those around him.
The Batman simulation had given him a glimpse of what real power could look like. Martial arts training, strategic thinking, advanced technology - these were the kinds of skills that could truly make a difference.
As Emi's laughter echoed through the room, Sam continued to contemplate his path to becoming stronger, his mind focused on finding a way to transform his vulnerability into strength.
Sam's mind wandered from the birthday celebration, his thoughts drifting to the B-rank Simulation Gem tucked away in his apartment. The recent kidnapping had exposed his vulnerabilities, and he yearned for a way to become stronger. He remembered Gail's words about gradual improvement, but the B-rank Gem represented a potential shortcut.
The gem's higher ranking meant more powerful ability extraction. Sam knew he couldn't simply create a simulation focused solely on gaining strength - it needed to be engaging for players. His developer's instinct kicked in, understanding that a simulation must be entertaining first, powerful second.
God of War emerged in his mind - a perfect blend of intense combat, compelling narrative, and extraordinary abilities. Kratos represented the ultimate warrior: a god-killing protagonist with immense strength, magical abilities, and a deeply emotional backstory. Sam could see the potential for Hunters to not just gain power, but to experience a transformative journey.
He imagined crafting the simulation with multiple layers. Players would navigate Norse mythology, battle mythical creatures, and unlock progressively powerful abilities. The combat system would require skill, strategy, and precision - making it challenging and rewarding for Hunters seeking to improve their combat techniques.
The B-rank Gem offered Sam an opportunity to create something truly remarkable. A simulation that wasn't just about extracting power, but about the journey of becoming powerful. He could design environments that tested players' limits, create boss battles that required genuine tactical thinking, and weave a narrative that kept players emotionally invested.
Sam's mind raced with possibilities, the birthday celebration fading into background noise as he mentally began constructing the God of War simulation.
As Sam began to wheel himself towards the exit, Yuna noticed his movement and approached him.
"Where are you going?" she asked, her voice soft but curious. "The party is still ongoing."
Sam paused, his hand on the wheelchair's wheel. He realized he was being hasty, trying to escape the celebration before it was over. The warmth of the room, the laughter of Emi, and the presence of his friends suddenly felt more inviting than his previous urge to leave.
"You're right," Sam said, a small smile breaking through his serious demeanor. "I guess I can stay a bit longer."
Yuna's face brightened. She helped guide his wheelchair back to a spot near Emi, who was now showing off her new Batman comic books to Jake. The room's festive atmosphere seemed to soften Sam's earlier intense thoughts about strength and survival.
"Let's enjoy the party," Yuna said, her voice gentle and encouraging.
Sam nodded, deciding to be present in the moment and celebrate Emi's birthday.
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Advance chapters in my P@|r$0n/Najicablitz