Kenso

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Not so long ago, I would've said I wanted to know when I was going to die. Now, I'm not so sure. I think the closer the time got, the lower my quality of life would get, because I wouldn't be able to keep from dwelling on that upcoming appointment, and that just wouldn't be cool. If we're assuming that this knowledge is set in stone, I DEFINITELY would not want to know. There's no point in worrying about what I can't stop. If it's possible to get around and buy myself some more time, well then, I'd probably want to know. I need as much time as possible to piss off as many people as possible with obvious truths that their pathetic and backwards little minds cannot seem to comprehend. (What can I say - I don't have much faith in the intelligence of humanity as a whole.)[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Matt']It's called them stealing as much money from us as possible. Especially since the Wii is kind of gimmicky anyways.[/quote] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I'd like to throw an argument out at this. The Wii itself is not gimicky at all. It's an innovative console with a huge potential for gameplay never before dreamed of in video games. The problem is that most of the games being released (including those by Nintendo) are treating its innovations as gimicks, thereby making it far harder to take it for the serious console it has the potential to be.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]As Des has already stated, technology is insanely quick at evolving, and the chances are pretty high that it did not exist in an affordable format at the release of the Wii. Or it didn't exist in a size that was viable for use with the Wiimote.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I for one am quite excited about the possibilities of the MotionPlus, and am quite looking forward to sword dueling games. Maybe something like Oblivion even, which could be pretty cool with an addition with the much potential for interaction. I think a big part of what can be done with it will depend on whether or not the Nunchuk can plug into it or not. Without that joystick and those two extra buttons, options can get pretty limited.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[SIZE=1]I almost felt sorry for the cop who was apparently handling things....Almost. He was too stupid to realize that Rai was just giving him the run around, though his constant pushing was pissing me off. Of course, I couldn't really say anything. Technically, he was doing his job. But when the city looks like it does, cops have better things to do than questioning the family members of shooting victims. I shot him a look as a warning, but he didn't notice, probably because he was too focused on his conversation with Rai. Little prick. What the fuck has become of our humanity around here? Even I went out putting bullets in people every night. Sure, they were people who needed it, but all the same, it was letting go of some level of my humanity. The doctor was nervous. Probably just an intern. We didn't keep doctors around for very long. But he seemed to know what he was talking about, and once he realized Rai actually gave a fuck, he sat down and explained things, no sugarcoating, no bullshit. I could learn to like this one. Maybe. It's fairly obvious that Gavin doesn't like the cop. Of course, from what I'd gathered about Gavin so far, it likely had something to do with the Rolex that pointed out a dirty cop. But I was used to that. It was when they started walking like the owned the city that I started to worry about them. At least this one still had the world-weary look to him. Maybe something would come along and wake him up. I could hope anyway. The cop's face as Gavin leaves tells me that Gavin had a few unpleasant words for him, and his glance in my direction says I was apparently involved. But then, it was likely to protect Rai, so I simply allowed one of those threatening little half-smiles to raise the right side of my mouth a little. I may not have had a clue, but the cop didn't know that. Hopefully, that would be all it took. The ride to Rai's was quiet, almost painfully so. But I wasn't sure what the hell to say, and some portion of me knew the smart thing to do was to say nothing at all. I played protector, almost by instinct, sweeping the house before I let Rai in. I knew it would probably be far more polite for me to go home, but I wasn't leaving her alone after everything that had gone down tonight. Neither of us said anything after I gave the clear for her to come in, and Rai seemed almost zoned, as though she just didn't care at the moment. I reached for the door to make sure everything secure, and before my hand reached it, I heard her voice, soft but clear. [B]"Please stay."[/B] I glanced over my shoulder, nodding an affirmation as I locked the door up and then pulled to make sure it was secure. I didn't glance back or turn around before responding. [B]"Planned on it." [/B]I glanced down, my still blood-soaked shirt officially registering in my thoughts again. [B]"What are the chances I might be able to borrow one of Mike's shirts?"[/B] I ask as I turn around. [B]"This blood is kind of uncomfortable."[/B] If I was at home, the shirt would simply be pulled off and tossed with no replacement, but here at Rai's that was likely a bad idea. She nodded, then vanished into a room for a minute before emerging with a plain blue shirt. I asked where the bathroom was and she told me, though she looked almost confused as to why I cared about changing around her. But modesty was good sometimes. When I came out in his shirt, which was rather tight thanks to his lanky build, Rai had the TV going and was sitting on the couch. I walked over, removing my guns and placing them on an end table where they'd be easily accessible. After placing the guns down, I sat on the other side of the couch from Rai, keeping my eyes on the door. Some movie I hadn't seen before appeared to be just starting. "Army of Darkness" or some such thing. Sounded cheesy to me, but I wasn't about to be fussy. We didn't really talk, though the heater took a dive apparently, and the place got noticeably colder not long after it started. After that, it seemed that Rai was edging closer and closer, but I figured it was just because of the cold room. After about an hour, she was right against me, and I wasn't even certain she was actually asleep. Then, I very well could've been imagining things, as I wasn't utterly certain I was awake. I started to let my arm wrap around her, but caught myself, and let it rest innocently on the back of the couch. Then I put my head back, and never managed to see the end of the movie. [/SIZE]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I haven't been to Phoenix in about 7 years, so I could be a little off here, but I'll go with what I remember.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Don't worry too much about the heat. Don't get me wrong - it's definitely warm. But while 100 degrees sounds pretty bad, it's actually fairly tolerable when the humidity is all of 2%.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]What there is to do depends a lot on your interests. I know that one of the malls has a [B]2-floor[/B] arcade, which I thought was cool as hell. There's a waterpark nearby, and if you have the time on a weekend at some point, Flagstaff isn't too far of a drive (I went there to check out the Grand Canyon, which was pretty cool).[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]If you're into any medieval Ren Fair stuff, there's a group down there that does it, and I could probably get you contacts for that (my mom and stepdad are/were a part of it - not sure if they're doing it right now thanks to real life and all that).[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]If you like basketball or other sports, keep in mind that you can do that pretty much all year round in Arizona. It just doesn't really get cold enough to make it so you can't have some fun outside. (Although it does get hot enough that you can't sometimes.)[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]When I was down there, they had a laser tag place, which was loads of fun, but I don't know if it's still there.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Anyway, don't know it that helps any, but there's what I can think of right now.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[SIZE=1]This was just not my night. Corrupt cop, attempted rape, messy kill, and now this. And just after Rai invites me in for dinner! As if Gavin (who's apparently supposed to be dead) showing up wasn't enough of a monkey wrench in things, Mike stumbles in bleeding to death. No offense to either of them - the more good folks we've got alive the better - but for the love of all that is merciful, when does it stop?! As Gavin took control of the medical situation (thank the gods, as it's not one of my strong suits), I was already calling an ambulance. I gave them my ID number and all the details I could, knowing that at least with the medics, a cop still meant something. I told them it was a friend, but failed to mention said friend wasn't another cop. Rai goes for Gavin's uniform, clutching it as she sobs, and I can't help but be a little bit jealous. Of course, I get the strange feeling there's more to it than I know about, which may or may not make things worse. Just because I know I don't stand a chance doesn't mean I wouldn't still like that dinner. I hold back behind everyone, almost feeling out of place. Sure, I know Rai, and just saved her and Jae, but damned if I don't feel quite right. I watch Gavin and Rai follow the medics hand-in-hand, but try not to focus on it as I grab a set of keys off the end table near the door, taking the time to lock up behind us. Leaving a gang leader's door unlocked was NEVER a good idea. At least if someone broke in this way, we'd have warning before entering. I quickly follow to the ambulance, hopping in, though it's getting tight. I glance at Mike and then at Rai, wishing I could lighten the situation a little bit. "What do you think Mike's gonna say when he finds out I told the operator he was a friend?" I'd heard that Mike didn't like me much. Probably the whole cop thing... [/SIZE]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]This makes me very sad. Not because I don't like Diablo (as that would be entirely untrue), but because I highly doubt my computer will be running any new games (especially since it crashes when I play WoW)....I really need to come up with a way to upgrade....[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Ikillion'][COLOR=#6d527f][FONT=Trebuchet MS][SIZE=1]She eats them, obviously.[/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR][/quote] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I thought that was only the cute girls.........*ducks flying objects*[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1] All humor aside, removing the bandanas would likely be about as useful as using a fork to drink a bowl of milk. As has been said, you can go to a different store, bye a white one and dye, or any number of various other options. Not to mention I doubt Wal-mart would give much of a damn about it to begin with, the heartless bastards.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Epitome'][SIZE=1][COLOR=#4863a0]Whoever is telling someone to deal with their emotional problems or feelings by using drugs, is just a rotten therapist in my opinion.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/quote] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I feel that something needs to be said about this comment. The term drugs encompasses an awful lot of things, including prescription anti-depressants and similar such medications. These are things that many people RELY on to get through circumstances. My father is on an anti-depressant right now, because he's emotionally crashing thanks to a work injury that has completely stopped most of the things he could do before it occurred. He doesn't want to be on it, but he needs it.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]So if someone finds that pot works for them (and may very well be cheaper, considering the costs of prescription drugs if you don't have insurance), then maybe the therapist that says they should continue using it, but be careful for all of the obvious reasons, is doing exactly what they should. Hell, the side effects of pot are a lot less dangerous than the side effects of a lot of antidepressants and other medications prescribed for 'mental issues'.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Epitome, I'm going to have to shoot down your idea of 'if for legalization, obviously a user'.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I do not, have not, and will not smoke pot. It's just never interested me. I do, however, support its legalization.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Of the people I've known who do (of which there are many), only two ever tried anything harder, and neither of them continued on with them.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]This isn't to say I haven't seen the downsides of pot. A friend of mine (Dave for privacy reasons) with whom I played D&D for a while was high pretty much 24/7. He was smoking pretty much from the second he woke up to the second he went to sleep. And while he could function, he was not the person he was when he was doing it casually. But he'd fallen into heavy use in a depression due to the death of his mother.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]It took another friend (who also smokes pot) (Jerry, privacy again) to make him realize just how bad he'd gotten. To Dave's credit, he managed to beat it, withdrawals and all, partly thanks to support from Jerry and the rest of the group, and partly due to his own desire to do so.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Dave and Jerry both still use casually. Neither of them have displayed any of the problems mentioned. Both of them find the idea that they would try something harder straight up offensive, and Jerry is raising two absolutely wonderful children (though he does not smoke in front of them, and I'm fairly certain they're not aware he does at all). Jerry is, without a doubt, one of the three smartest people I have EVER met, and Dave is not exactly stupid himself.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I've also known alcoholics and tobacco addicts who were much like Dave (my father included when it comes to cigarettes). NONE of them have been able to beat the addictions, period. My father periodically tries to quit smoking, but it leaves him sick and he gets nightmares (and he can't use the patches, b/c he's allergic to the adhesive). And this is from a man who has had multiple back surgeries and has been told he'd be in a wheelchair the rest of his life more than once, but walks on his own (most of the time without a cane) because he refuses to give in. But he can't quit tobacco.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]My other big reason is simple. It's true that if it was legalized, no one would be able to make any real money on it since it's easy to grow. However, how much money would be saved if we stopped having to try and stop it. How much money is spent every year on catching, persecuting, jailing, etc. criminals with pot-related crimes? I don't know the exact number, but I'm certain it's damned high. So while you're not making any money on it directly, you're saving a lot not trying to stop it. (Not to mention freeing up the manpower for better uses.)[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Anyway, I'm very tired right now, so that may not be as coherent as I would've liked, but that's my thoughts on the matter.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I must say, this is an absolutely excellent read. You have successfully managed to convince me I want to give FF8 another shot (and I've never convinced myself it's worth playing past the first disc, though I've never gotten rid of it). I don't really think I can say enough good things about this, though I did notice one typo.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][quote][FONT=Book Antiqua]?You know, the boys often [b]ten[/b] to choke on these exams when I come with them,? [/quote][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Book Antiqua][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]That's in Chapter 3. I'm assuming the bolded part should say [B]tend[/B], not ten.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I watched Rai drive away, following the movements of the car and the occupants until they actually entered the apartment, just in case. One incident was enough for tonight, and quite a while to come really. Realizing my gun was still in my hand, I slid it back into the holster and turned to the mess I'd made.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]One cop, two blasted elbows, a missing groin area, and half his skull missing....Yeah, that wasn't good. Granted, chances were good he'd never be reported, but leaving the mess still wasn't a good idea. Thankfully, alleys around apartments tended to have dumpsters, and this one was no different.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Disposing of the body was easy. Getting rid of the car would be far more difficult. But then, chances were good that it wouldn't matter. The cars almost regularly got ditched by guys who just quit, so finding a cop car laying about wasn't entirely unusual. Fuck it, it wasn't worth it.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Having taken care of the body, I started walking up the alley towards the apartments, and stopped dead as I glanced down at my clothes. Shit....Completely covered in blood. Well, at least my shirt was. I hoped nobody would mind too much, considering the circumstances.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I jogged the short distance to her place, and knocked. Jae let me in, and the trail of clothes leading off gave me a pretty good hint as to where Rai was. I raised an eyebrow and smirked, feeling the need to lighten the situation a little, especially considering my stained shirt, which was quickly starting to feel real umcomfortable.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Well, well. That's one hell of an invitation, ain't it?"[/SIZE][/FONT]

[CENTER][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][img]http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/Desbreko_Fanclub/VBO/avatar6_guest.gif[/img][/SIZE][/FONT][/CENTER] [LEFT][FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]A well-built and deeply tanned arm stretched across 3 feet of space to slam the button on top of a blaring alarm clock. As the sound stopped, the hand slid off the nightstand lazily, almost as though the body attached to it had no intention of actually moving. Devin Letrad opened his eyes slowly, reaching up to wipe the sleep away as he eased himself up. He was not accustomed to such obnoxious noises pulling him from a sound sleep, and while it wasn't all that early to him, he had forgotten just how unpleasant an experience it could be.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]He pulled the blood red comforter to the side as the swung his legs from the bed, unsteadily standing and sidling towards the bathroom for a shower. Thankfully for him, sleeping in the nude (and the bathroom's walk-in shower) made that a significantly simpler process than it may have otherwise been.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]After a lengthy 30-minute shower, Devin emerged from the bathroom looking much better than he had when he climbed out of bed. His dark brown hair was brushed back, though he hadn't bothered to get rid of the day's worth of stubble on his chin, which worked alright on him anyway.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]He had two suitcases and his packpack already packed, with a tailered Armani black suit with a grey shirt and black tie laid out the night before. Devin preferred to look well-dressed when he wasn't off exploring, although his inconsistent shaving habits often threw off that look.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Grabbing his luggage, he left the hotel room and locked the door behind him, chuckling a little. He often lived better when traveling then when he was home, a fact that he found a little amusing. But it wasn't really worth buying a big expensive house if you wouldn't be living in it most of the time.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Checking out was simple, as was finding his called ahead for cab to the port. Getting through security was not such a quick task, although it was relatively painless (it always went smoother when he left his weapons at home). As he advanced through the gates and outside to where the Von Braun was parked, for lack of a better term, Devin actually came to a stop.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]He lifted an eyebrow and let out a long, low whistle, as though he were watching some gorgeous classic vehicle drive by. Being what he was, Devin had seen many an impressive structure in his lifetime, but this was beyond anything he had imagined.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]He started walking again, but didn't stop staring. He barely registered his interactions with the hostess, only reacting to display the requested items and turn down any assistance from the staff. His luggage really wasn't that heavy, and he was not fond of being waited on hand and foot, though he imagined as a first class passenger he'd better get used to it.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]He ignored the crowds as he entered the lobby and headed for the elevators, though he was once again reacting, his eyes absorbing the scenes around him. He was now standing in a piece of history, and one that wasn't falling apart and nearly lost to time. He suddenly wished he'd gotten his parents tickets, but that somehow hadn't even crossed his mind to start.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Good day, Mr. Letrad,"[/B] V.I.C.I. spoke as he entered the elevator, and nearly caused him to jump back out again. That was a new one, even for him, though he imagined it was something unique to the Von Braun.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Um, good day, Ms...."[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"V.I.C.I. will do, sir. Considering your luggage, I presume you would like to be taken to your living deck first?"[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"That would be most appreciated, Vicki."[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]"[B]We are headed to Deck 3. If you need further instructions to your room, please let me know.[/B]?[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]"Thank you."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]The ride was smooth, the transistions of starting and stopping absolutely flawless. V.I.C.I. spoke one last time as he stepped off. [B]"Enjoy your stay on the Von Braun, Mr. Letrad."[/B][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]The layout was fairly intuitive on the deck, and Devin easily found his 'house'. He once again stopped to stare for a second. The living area was actually nearly as large as his own home, though he kept a tiny home compared to many of the first class passengers. He didn't plan on lingering long, as he had every intention of going to the opening party at Ceasar's Palace. Bringing his luggage to the bedroom, he took a few seconds to admire the plush bedding and then quickly left.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]He did take his time to explore a little, knowing he had time to arrive. After some walking around, he finally decided to head tor the casino. His timing somehow perfect, he showed up just in time for the first performance, and he stopped to listen, her voice causing a smile to lift his lips. As she stopped, he headed for the bar, noting the other passengers, but not interacting just yet, always feeling a bit out of place in social settings.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]The bartender wasted no time in responding to his presence.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]"What can I get for you, sir?"[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]"I'll just be having a cola, please."[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]The bartender smiled, wondering why someone at a lavish party like this would be avoiding alcohol, but not questioning him.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]Devin's tip equaled the cost of the drink, and the bartender's smile grew just a little wider. This was going to be a good customer, especially if he started ordering drinks.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][COLOR=#202020]"Thank you." Devin turned to watch the crowd, leaning against the bar as he sipped at his soda, his eyes catching the singer engaged in conversation with someone else.[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/LEFT]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Devin can likely fit that bill if I drag his sorry behind into this, which I should likely get around to doing. I'm just having problems coming up with an opening post that doesn't sound almost exactly like everyone else's (especially reactions to the ship, as it'd be insanely impressive even to a professional explorer).[/SIZE][/FONT]

[B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Passenger Name: [/SIZE][/FONT][/B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Devin Jayne Letrad [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Age: [/SIZE][/FONT][/B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]34 [/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Identification: [/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][IMG]http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/Desbreko_Fanclub/VBO/avatar6_guest.gif[/IMG][/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]Occupation & Background: [/B]Devin is a professional explorer, prone to dangerous excursions and exceedingly deadly voyages into the completely unexplored. Thankfully for Devin, he's both very skilled and very lucky. The son of an archaeologist and a history teacher, Devin was pretty much destined to either love history or despise it. He's taken to loving it, but needs a far more direct approach to it than his father, his need for action motivating him to traverse jungles and deserts and other harsh environments in search of hints of things no one else has ever seen. The years have turned Devin into something of an adrenaline junkie. He explores now just as much for the thrill of something new and exciting as he does the prospect of finding something old and equally exciting. Thankfully, being willing to go places and do things no one else will pays well if you know where to look, and Devin has done well for himself. He purchased his ticket onto the Von Braun because he views it as one more big adventure, a chance to see things no one else has, to discover who knows what in the depths of space. [/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=1][FONT=Verdana]Having been involved in multiple troubles through the years that ended up using weaponry, Devin has become quite formidable in armed combat (and he's not so bad at unarmed combat, thanks to his constant presence in bars, though he does not drink). He is not opposed to assisting the security team if it should ever prove necessary (though he doubts it), and is nearly guaranteed to somehow attract a bar fight at some point in time.[/FONT][/SIZE]

[quote name='Gavin'][SIZE=1]I think my favourite parts to the film were actually the more light-hearted moments, or any of JARVIS's lines. They oddly gave a greater sense of realism, at least for me.[/SIZE][/quote] [size=1]Oh, I agree entirely. The 'chemistry' between Stark and JARVIS was great. I particularly like one of the lines in the final battle, though I'm not sure why. [spoiler]JARVIS: It appears that his suit can fly as well, sir. Stark (in a rather exasperated, obviously tired voice): Duly noted. Now FLY![/spoiler] That's probably paraphrased a bit, but I was never very good at nabbing exact quotes from movies.[/size]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Alright, somebody had to start a topic on this one.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I went to see this with my gf and a friend last night, and I have to say, it was awesome. The casting was perfect (Robert Downey Jr. was absolutely brilliant), and it had a pretty good soundtrack too. I thought the story was pretty good, but not knowing much about the comic, I can't say how faithfully it represented the comics (although I've heard it was very good, including from the friend I went to see it with). Of course, the special effects were top-notch, and some of the one-liners were just great.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]If you haven't seen it yet, you need to. And stay after the credits. Trust me, it's worth it. If you're going to see it again, and didn't stay, stay. If you've seen it, and don't plan on going again, I ask you....WHY NOT?[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Let's see....First thing I do when I pop on OtakuBoards is check to see who's online, which helps dictate what I'll do next. If I'm part of an RP and someone is on who is part of it, I'll pop into the Theatre and see if they've posted. Otherwise, I usually hit Anthology first, then the Backstage, the Auditions, and then the actual Theatre.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]After that, it's wherever I feel like it, generally based on the most recently posted in topic (often the Lounge or the Arcade). I pop in and out of the Anime and Ampitheatre a lot, even if I don't post often.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='PyrusDragon'][U]Golden Sun[/U] should be given a sequel. So many questions left unanswered, a great storyline, good plot and characters, beautiful landscapes. It's great and I shun those who have never played it. Either way, rumors of a DS sequel ran high for a while and there just now springing back up. Camelot should do it.[/quote] You are keeping in mind Golden Sun 2: The Lost Age, right? It's been forever since I played it, so I don't remember all of it, or if it closed up the loose ends or not.

[quote name='Drizzt Do'urden']Actually that's not true. I got it from R.A. Salvatore. Though I'm not sure where he came from first.[/quote] Driz'zt is an original creation of R.A. Salvatore, created for a book series (now mulitple book series, but I digress) set in the Forgotten Realms. He has since been made an official NPC of the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, and has been given real stats on numerous occassions (many of which will be debated for ages to come). Now consider that the Realms are NOT an original creation of R.A. Salvatore, and you'll have your answer as to why people buy these books. Yes, our imaginations are vast, but sometimes you need a catalyst. On top of that, actually designing the rules is a HUGE investment of time (I know, because I do it myself as a bit of a hobby), and laying out an entire world is something many people simply can't make space for in their schedules. So the books are both a catalyst and a convenience, ones that allow people to just jump right into things instead of spending months of out-of-game time just trying to set things up.

[quote name='Kei'][COLOR=darkblue][SIZE=1]I'm a tabletopper, actually. D&D, Vampire, Fudge... I've played a lot of various things during my time in college. Been in many games and DMed (Dungeon Mastered) a few. It's really quite a lot of fun once you get a hang of the system. (For all you out there that have yet to try and want to, don't be a cleric your first time out. You'll just give yourself a headache, lol.)[/SIZE][/COLOR][/quote] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]What's Fudge? I've never heard of that one before.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]4th Edition actually looks kind of promising mechanically, but a lot of what's going on with it and licensing for it makes it feel more like a cash grab than anything. The Digitial Initiative for it is cool, but I think it's going to be too expensive. Plus, they're dumbing things down in 4th Edition, and while I can understand why, I'm not sure I like it.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Do you prefer playing or DMing? I think they both have their good points, but I definitely prefer to be on the player's side of the table. What's your style of DMing? Do you use published adventures, write your own, or do you just ad hoc it as you go along? I'm an ad hoc sort of DM myself, meaning I end up taking as many or more notes than the players so I can keep up with myself. I don't have to worry about plot derailment that way, which is nice. I just have to worry about possibly being forced into giving life to a part of the world I hadn't planned on addressing until a little later.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]Arrgh-you-stole-my-sarcasm!!! :p (Same game and everything.)[/FONT] [FONT=Arial]Hey [COLOR=darkred]Kenso[/COLOR], how's about you go spellin' out those lovely little acronyms that us uninitiated don't yet understand?[/FONT] [FONT=Arial]I mean, I know your target audience will get ya?hopefully?but still, I'd like to know what you're talkin' about. I mean, I might even be interested.[/FONT][/quote] My apologies. I hadn't really thought about that. D&D = Dungeons & Dragons - A tabletop RPG published by Wizards of the Coast, with supplements published by multiple 3rd party publishers (Malhavoc Press, Dreamscarred Press, Mongoose Publishing, numerous others). OGL = Open Game License - The Open Game License is a legality originally conceived by WotC that allows other companies to use any material they deem Open Content (such as basic mechanics, similar such things). GSL = Game System License - Effectively WotC's version of the Open Game License for the upcoming 4th Edition, this appears to be more restrictive (though details are still pending), and may mean many 3rd party publishers continue to stick with the current edition (3.5). BESM = Big Eyes, Small Mouth - A strangely named point-based RPG system, BESM is designed for those who want to build RP characters in an anime style world. Known for over-the-top abilities and some crazy powers, it's probably one of the worst balanced systems out there (but fun if you're just looking for something crazy). GURPS = Generic Universal Roleplaying System - All I know about GURPS is that it's point-based like BESM, but designed with game balance in mind. Apparently, it can get really complicated, and it has rules for nearly everything. Hope that helps.

[FONT="Verdana"][SIZE="1"]I'm not much for my birthday really. I usually try to avoid it at all costs. I managed to get away with nothing but a cake this year. I just don't think of it as that big of a deal. I didn't even bother getting drunk for my 21st b-day (as a matter of fact, my first and only time drunk was this New Years Eve). That said, Happy B-day to both of oyu, even if I'm a bit belated here.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='Gavin'][SIZE="1"]Call me a master of stating the obvious, but D'Ann, you really do look hot in that little red dress.[/SIZE][/QUOTE] You, sir, are a master of stating the obvious. Sorry, somebody had to. That said, he's right. And I don't even like red clothes for the most part. (Black is more my color.)

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Raiha, that may've been the scariest thing I've read here in a long while.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]All kidding aside, I actually found that one amusing, although the thought of all those flowers makes me want some Claritin.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Hey, I was wondering how many of you out there play any tabletop games? You know, D&D, Vampire: The Masquerade, True20, things like that. If you do play, what systems do you use, and what do you like about them? Are you by the books, or does homebrew make its way in?[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I play D&D, and that's about it. I haven't gotten the opportunity to test any other systems (except BESM) yet, though I had a friend who kept trying to get me to play GURPS. I only play 3.5, though I use quite a few 3rd party publishers (I especially like [URL=www.dreamscarredpress.com]Dreamscarred Press[/URL] and homebrew material. I don't often use pre-established campaign settings (Forgotten Realms, Eberron), instead taking what I like and building from there. I prefer to play instead of DM though, and I'm willing to play in just about any campaign setting.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I can't really say what it is I like about 3.5, especially since parts feel overly complicated and end up a huge drain on game time. I love the 3.5 psionics system though (hence Dreamscarred Press), and a lot of the new books that have come out (Magic of Incarnum, Tome of Magic, Tome Of Battle) are pretty impressive.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I'm not much looking forward to 4E (though I was initially, I don't like how WotC is handling the OGL/GSL issue), although I'm witholding judgement until I can see how things go when they release more accurate details on how things are going to run.[/SIZE][/FONT]