Annie

[size=1][b]Sun[/b]- I thoroughly enjoyed the feel and look this piece. It's relaxing and has that "care free" attitude. The use of light color really makes that attitude airy and mellow. Materialism, who needs it? [b]Ozy-J[/b]- I also enjoyed this piece. However, I liked it not because of the over-all appearance, but the meaning. You view on materialism seems to be more focused on the way it works, rather than Sun's care free view. Your focus is on how it effects us and how it is everywhere, and where its concerns are. Both of you have great views on "materialism", but my vote goes to [b]Ozy[/b].[/size]

[size=1]Thanks kindly. Hehe, yeah..the original version was more of a skeleton, and now I'm adding the muscles and skin. But yeah "scraping for reason", that line may get changed another couple times. I kept revising it on Word, but nothing really appealed to me...I'll keep working on the entire piece, of course.[/size]

[size=1]Well, this is something new for me. I like poetry, but have never been able to write it. However, someone's pushed at me to attempt and work at it. This one is a work-in-progress, and I'll probably clean it up more later on down the road. But I'm just curious to see what others thought of it. So, here goes: [i]Conforming needs of society force you to bend the back, Broken and bleeding, I saw you strewn beside your Pride Helpless and desperate for desertion, while begging for attention, I heard you crying before your Strength Confirmation for existence, I basked in your scraping for reason, Woe, misery is Me, became your Master Redemption towards loathsome emotions, I found you hopelessly corrected, and swallowed your Soul[/i][/size]

[quote name='ANTIWORLD']I won't tell you can trust me as the angels do above me;[/quote] [size=1]Welcome to the OB, ANTIWORLD. Firstly, I enjoyed this poem (as a whole) because of the strong emotional flow. You can clearly feel the devotion, the love, being expressed here. I quoted that line because I was slightly confused on what you were trying to say. Maybe the way it's worded confused me."I won't tell you can trust...." that, in particular, is what I keep stumbling over. I know you're saying "I'm telling you that you can trust.." and I can see why you didn't just write that; it's simply too long. Perhaps there's another way to word that? [/size] [quote]I won't speak one word so you may be discover[/quote] [size=1]I don't know about anyone else, but I foud that to be the most beautiful line in this poem. It reminds me of when you have had a crush on a good person for so long, and you don't want to say a word of it because you want to watch over that person and see them come to realize your feelings [and come into their own]. It just makes for a sweeter relationship, I think. You develope a stronger bond, and that is what I saw in this poem. Bonding and strength, passion and care. [/size]

[size=1]Jules chuckled to herself and repositioned a few meters away from the last Tyrant. Surprisingly, he didn't flinch or give hint that he knew she was approaching him. "What's going on with this? I know you can see me, fatty," she whispered and pulled her heavy machinegun in front of her. Her fingers squeezed the trigger, unloading rounds point blank into the Tyrant. Jules clenched her teeth as the smoke from the barrels cleared to reveal the Tyrant standing perfectly unscathed, and staring straight back at her. Taken back and a bit frightened by the eerie reaction, Jules tossed one of her impact grenades to his feet. Jumping back, she quickly switched on the comm link that reached all friendly company. "What the.." her voice struggled to stay calm and collective as she witnessed her infamous grenades explode and do minimal damage to the now approaching Tyrant. Frantic started to creep over her skin as she quickly conducted a scan of this mech. [i]Data Error 1512-- Unable to identify targeted information.[/i] "Everyone, we may have a slight problem," a nervous snicker broke through her throat. "What's going on, Jules?" Vince was the first to respond. "This Tyrant seems to have an unidentified armor. It's coming up as Data Error 1512. Either that, or they're hiding something." "Did you try blasting him?" Kaizu replied, sliding up next to her. "Of course, I did. But he's taking little to no damage with the explosives, or my bullets. Someone see if you can slice him," Jules jumped back, "I'll keep your perimeter covered if any other surprises want to jump out. Snipers, keep your eyes open. I'm getting some erroneous readings that keep popping up on my scanner." "I keep seeing them too," Sakura jumped in, "I'm not sure what to make of them." "Perhaps, they're playing around with us. I've heard rumors of cloaking devices, and I'm not about to let that go in one ear and out the other," Jules growled and readied her plasma rifle in one hand and a grenade in the other. "Right on. Vincent, Sakura, double-team on this wide load. Jules, Isaac, and myself will provide close proximity cover. Taka and Tobias, cover our rears and keep sharp on those squirrely pips on the radar," Kaizu readied Fang with his assault rifle and gave the signal for the Shinobi to launch their attack.[/size]

[size=1]Well, why do you like My Chemical Romance? What got you to like them? I'm not into any of the other bands you named, but I am growing fond of MCR. I haven't listened to their older stuff, yet. Their current album, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, is all I've really listened to. And I have to say, I like it alot. The lyrics are just so much more morbid compared to all the other alternative [pop] rock bands out there. I don't know how many kids actually realize some of the things that are being said, lol. But the music is good enough to divert the attention. What's interesting is that this band doesn't look as dark as they really are, sadly. Hopefully this wave of "happy anger" stuff goes away soon. It'd be interesting to see what they really can do. [/size]

[size=1][b]Sakura-chan[/b]- Though the cleanliness and over-all quality of your image is great, I can't say that it impresses me further than that. It takes more of a humorous tone, and something that just can't really capture the fright of "nightmares'". I like the font, I like the splatters of paint, and I'm a huge fan of black/white. I feel like it would've had more of an impact with just his wide-eyed expression. That seems to be the only thing haunting. [b]Doc-kun[/b]- This submission is pretty interesting. Again, usage of black/white is a plus. The image itself is in a way disturbing, and might give me a fright if I wasn't used to seeing things like that, lol. The choice of font is perfect for the image, however, I felt it stood out a bit. Too "bright" compared to the rest of the graphic. I enjoy the image though. It looks deformed and twisted, and tormented. The very things nightmares are made of, and can cause if severe enough. The thought of closing your eyes and knowing what will happen when it happens is the scary thought..and what becomes the nightmare. Good job, both of you. My vote goes to [b]Doc[/b].[/size]

[size=1][b]Name[/b]- ?Mel? Blanks [b]Age[/b]- 19 [b]Gende[/b]r- Female [b]City of Residence[/b]- Dragon?s Heights, Cadmus [b]Loyalty[/b]- Solely devoted to the Guild. [b]Job[/b]- Darkfire Army, Scavenger Division. One of the most dangerous positions in the Army. Mel is one of a few dozen who choose to risk their lives every day to cross borders of Nadine and acquire ?certain t?ings?, and on special occasion, assassinate major targets. If caught by a Nadine soldier, the penalty is immediate execution or imprisonment (depending on the mood of the Nadine council). This position is hardly filled due to cowardice men and their determination to stay alive, no matter the situation. [b]Abilities[/b]- Swift, agile, cautious, and very silent. Mel?s small body and keen sense of sight and hearing is very important to her job. Years of hiding by herself have tamed her breathing pattern and her ability to stay perfectly still for long periods of time. She plays ?dead? very well, and has very rarely gotten caught in the act. This all has been the key ingredients to her survival, and have allowed her to stay alive throughout her life and throughout raiding. [b]Weapon of Choice[/b]- Scavengers aren?t normally equipped with guns, and most certainly not any sort of explosives. It?s trusted that their quick-moving abilities should be enough to sneak in and out without being caught. But out of rough experiences in her past, Mel carries a handmade dagger that is tucked away in a small pouch in the cuff of her right boot. The dagger is made of a sharpened, jagged shard of metal she found in one of the thousands piles of rubble. The blade itself is only three inches long, tip is sharp enough to penetrate to the bone. The handle is a piece of plexiglass, the edges worn and rounded from years of use and abuse, and is wrapped in a strip of soft leather. [b]Appearance- [url=http://gothtopic.com/gothware/gallery/data/500/44.jpg]Mel[/b][/url]. Frail and small, she stands around 5?3? tall and weighs next to 115 pounds. She has a scar along the left side of her face starting from the top of her eyebrow to the corner of her mouth. Because of insecurities of herself and other people, Mel is never seen without her trench coat or long-sleeved shirts and jeans. She doesn?t take her trench coat with her on raids; causes too much noise. [b]Personality[/b]- Years of solitude and servitude to being a Scavenger have conditioned Mel to be mute and sort of the ?underdog?. She?s the shadow in the back of a crowded room and prefers staying that way. Those who hunt with her know how kind and merciful she could be. They also know how brutal, morbid, and insane she is. Perhaps, and is given much thought, this is why she chooses to be alone and quiet. Mel is aware of her mental instability, but has little control over it once she?s provoked. [b]Biography[/b]- Mel was born under the name of ?Melody Marcus? and to the parents Stanley and Barbara Marcus. Just like every other child in Cadmus, Melody?s childhood was no imaginary fantasy; it was hell. Her father was a merchant for a ship called ?The Black Bible?, one of the most recognized ships of the black market. He was hardly ever home, and when he was, it wasn?t joyous. See, Stanley was a miserable man (much like any other person in Cadmus) and loved his liquor, he also was a very aggressive man. And Barbara was quite the antagonizer, and pretty competitive. This amounted to no good late at night when Stanley came home drunk. The shouts and crashes of whatever they could pick up would stir Melody out of her sleep to witness horrible beatings and a disastrous theater of profanities. One night, the chaos stopped. Stanley had had enough of Barbara?s constant nagging, and Barbara had had enough of his drunken abuse. So, when Stanley came home, Barbara was waiting with a pistol. A few gunshots went off, and a few thuds. When Melody reached the living room, both of her parents lay in a pool of blood. Barbara had shot Stanley a couple of times in the chest, and Stanley had gotten a pocket knife into Barbara?s neck before he bled to death. She was only nine years old. Strangely, she was both happy and sad of her parent?s deaths. But, try as she might, Melody just couldn?t escape the pain of being alone. She had no other relatives, no friends. It seemed everywhere she ran in Cadmus was depressing and oppressing. All except one place, the one place Melody made her new home. It was, perhaps, the most beautiful buildings (if any buildings at all) in the city; the library. It was abandoned and half-demolished, but Melody found it to be the most peaceful place. She would regard it as her ?church? or ?heaven?. The library is where she taught herself the value of silence, solitude, and education; a luxury rarely afforded amongst children her age. She self-taught herself how to read aside from basic kindergarten ?ABCs?; the only good thing her parents did for her before they died. By the time she was twelve, Melody was reading high school level books and picked up every dusty, dilapidated book she could find to read. Food was always an issue for her, as it was for all poverty-ridden citizens. Malnutrition soon set in, and caused for desperate measures. Melody soon learned the art of stealing and stealth. Grocery ?shopping? only came once a month to the docks, and every visit, dozens of people would be caught and sentenced by the Guild. Miraculously, Melody perfected thievery very fast. But one winter?s night would cost her her ?freedom?. An undercover henchman for the Guild posed as a thief and followed along with Melody. Instead of being angry with her illegal acts, the henchman was impressed by her cunning and tactics. He reported her to the Guild as a possible valuable asset. Melody was brought in to Headquarters and questioned about a job as a Scavenger for the Darkfire Army. Without anything to lose, she quickly agreed and was sent off for training in the Research Base Ruins. For two years to come, Melody endured strenuous exercises on both the body and mind. However, the exercises on the mind were far more brutal than the body. The Ruins were rumored to have ?second-hand?effects on the human body from all the years of chemical neglect and the sorts. The lengthened exposure to this environment had many long term impacts on those who trained there; especially young Melody, who became known as Mel for her androgynous appearance. It was important for her to keep her gender under a mask; her extremely young age was dangerous enough for her. Most Scavengers are in the age range of 20-35; said age for most experience and maturity. And about 90% of every recorded Scavenger was male; females just didn?t last long amongst their own kind, and against opposing forces. Most females died, or were driven to the point of suicide, due to rape/murder. Few survived, one of which was Mel. Her last night in the Ruins, a fellow male Scavenger-in-training attempted to have his way with her. To his dismay, Mel learned the value of knives and severed the very thing that had made him a man. Despite his pleading for mercy, Mel?s mind snapped and her dagger kept going. Minutes afterward, Mel left the Ruins and traveled back to Cadmus. At the age of 16, Mel made her first, big kill. A chief justice of Nadine?s council, one of the most dangerous assassinations the Guild has assigned. For the next few years to come, Mel made a reputation of being one of the most sought out thieves/assassins; for both execution and ?to get the job done, and done fast?. She takes missions no other Scavenger of any experience will willingly touch, and comes back with her life and whatever it is she was assigned to retrieve. Those who go with her on these missions always come back with their lives; but she won?t be held responsible for missing body parts.[/size]

[size=1][i]"Sergeant Pilot Jullian Ray, please report to docking bay fourty-seven, immediately. Once again, will Sergeant Pilot Jullian Ray please report to docking bay fourty-seven, immediately. Command Post out."[/i] The intercom speakers blared and echoed in the empty Olympic pool room. Jules lay in the middle of the water, staring up at the all-glass ceiling. It was Tuesday, her "swim day", her day of relaxation; and they just had to call for her. They didn't sound too happy either. Reluctantly, Jules swam to the side of the pool and pulled herself to the surface of the grey tiles. "I wonder what they want with me this time," she gripped as she towled her hair dry. She threw the towel around her waist and scooped up her gym bag. The wet bottoms of her feet padded gently across the tile, sending a series of soft slappings bouncing off of the water and walls. Outside the serene pool room the hallways buzzed with excitement of the military base. Only, this excitement was not joyous or victorious; instead, shouts of panic and tension throbbed in the small space. "Colonel Matthews, what the hell is going on?" Jules shouted. Colonel Matthews was one of the top pilots of the aerial defense, and a good friend to the mech class. "Where have you been? You've been called for several times! Get your ass down to docking bay. Prepare your mech to launch in five minutes," the Colonel quickly jogged past, throwing on his flight suit and tossing Jules hers. "But--" "You're needed for artillery," he interrupted and disappeared behind a wall of soldiers. "Great, what has Kaizu done this time," she muttered and trotted barefoot to her designated bay. Once she got to bay fourty-seven, she quickly dressed in her pilot uniform and struggled to strap on her boots. "I want to know who, what, when, where, and is Caboose's ammo stocked?" she barked, climbing the rickety catwalk to the cockpit of her mech. Quickly, and with careful precision, Jules began start up procedures and listened intently as a lower class sergeant spouted off information. Unfortunately, Jules had a small patience scale, and it only intensified with the sergeant's nasal voice. "Just patch the rest of the information through the com link!" With a quick thrust of her right hand, Caboose groaned to life and took off towards the pre-programmed position. As a traditional ritual, Jules braided her hair and hummed "Mary had a little lamb". The radar started to flash in the far corner as she gained up on Kaizu's position. She then took manual control and swivled the heavy machine around to come up from behind him. Caboose was Templar Class, and much heavier than a Shinobi or Knight. However, from "a lot of lovin' and enough practice", as she would say, Jules has perfected flawless, free-flowing movement. Colonel Matthews always told her she should've been a Shinobi; but Jules' heart told her otherwise. "I guess I should call him," she switched on her communications link, "Sergeant Pilot Ray reporting for duty. Patrol Kaizu, do you copy?" "Took you long enough. Where are you?" Buzzing and static of Kaizu's fire and taking fire made his voice barely audible. Jules snickered and pulled back on her left hand's trigger, releasing a powerful blast from her plasma rifle over Kaizu's shoulder and straight into a Tyrant's cockpit. A playful smile danced across her lips as the massive mech burst into flames. The explosion forced both Caboose and Fang to take a step or two back. "Right behind you."[/size]

[size=1]I just got back from seeing The Corpse Bride. The rumor that it was nothing like The Nightmare Before Christmas is true. Though, it was a great movie, it still can't beat old school claymation. I also agree with Dagger. [spoiler]Once he found out that Victoria was to wed that creep, it just seemed like there wasn't anything for him. It was like "well, there goes the love of my life, maybe I'm better off dead?". I think he did feel something for Emily, but not enough to willingly and intentionally giving his life for her.[/spoiler] I'm not sure how I felt about the ending, but the movie was beautiful. Certain scenes of the movie did remind me of Burton's other films, but then there were a few that brought in a breath of fresh air [spoiler](like the jazz/blues music for the skeletons)[/spoiler]. I think I fell in love with the small, old skeleton. [strike]I can't remember his name, though. I know it's "Elder ___". I know, I know, I just got done watching the movie...but it is after 1 AM.[/strike] Elder Gutknecht! That's it! He was just so old, so small...I wanted to cuddle him ^-^ (thanks for helping with that DW) It wasn't all I expected, but it was good to see.[/size]

[QUOTE=James][font=franklin gothic medium] [b]A) Which aspect of OtakuBoards do you find to be the most negative/confusing?[/b][/font][/quote] [size=1]Honestly? The only thing negative that I've seen on the 'Boards is a [i]very[/i] few members. [strike]Then again, I'm not an ideal person[/strike], and I'm sure I've done things that should[strike]n't[/strike] allow me to say that. Other than that, there isn't anything technical or quality related aspects I would consider to be negative/confusing. Everything has started to iron itself out. From being here for 2 years, I've only seen vast and incredible improvement; in both members and technical ways.[/size] [quote name='James][font=franklin gothic medium][b]B) What is your favorite aspect of OtakuBoards?[/b'][/font][/quote] [size=1]My favorite part of my OB experience is the friendships I've had the honor of making. I love being able to say that I belong here, that I have friends here, and can be considered a second family. It's...something rare to have on the internet. To have a sort of connection with people. I don't talk to many, if any, other people outside of the OB; I just can't trust them. Sure, I've visited other message boards, stayed with them for a few months, but drifted off. And I realized that I can only find that the OB has that quality and charming characteristic. Friendly and a blend of so many different personalities, the OB is absolutely unique. There is no other, nothing even comes close. The organization of staff and how the 'Boards is ran is probably the most important aspect of the OB, and is what's so amazing. The staff, in my experience, has always been very helpful and guiding. Well, all of the moldy-oldies that is, lol. It's sad to see some of the old staff dwindle away, but it makes more of an impression and impact on how appreciative you are of them. Those that were here a couple to few years ago are the ones who have inspired me and who have helped show me the way. I really miss that, but I'm very apprehensive of the new staff members; and I'm happy to be the "oldie" who helps them, and new incoming members. [/size]

[size=1][b]Name[/b]- Anger [b]Gender[/b]-?he..he made me do it..?[i]~ Calon[/i] [b]Age[/b]- 18 years, and counting [b]Appearance[/b]- [quote=Calon?s last visit to the shrink][size=1] [b]Doctor[/b]- ?Okay, Calon, one last question. What does ?Anger? look like to you?? [b]Calon[/b]- ?He?s?.just a shadowy figure.? [b]Doctor[/b]- ?You mean, he doesn?t have a body like the rest?? [b]Calon[/b]- ?N-no. Every time I see him, he?s?just dark. I can?t make out his shape.? [b]Doctor[/b]- ?Then how can you be sure if he?s a man?? [b]Calon[/b]- ?Because his voice is scary. He yells at me a lot. When he gets really angry at me, he gets bigger and bigger. ? [b]Doctor[/b]- ?So, he?s just a huge, black shadow?? [b]Calon[/b]- ?That?s what I said, you f--king moron!?[/size][/quote] [b]Personality[/b]- Anger is pretty dominant in Calon?s life. Conceited and arrogant, but unfulfilled like a spoiled brat. Anger is frustrated with Calon?s cowardice and hesitation to do his will. Anger feels he is more powerful than the rest of the ?others?, and should have free reign over Calon. But when Calon gives the slightest hint of repression and doubt, Anger quickly retorts violently and mercilessly. [b]Writing Sample[/b]- ?You know he deserves it, Calon.? ?He didn?t mean-? ?Horseshit. You?re just a pansy, Calon. This man tried to hurt you, and you?re just going to let him get the best of you? What a p.ussy. Desire has more gull than you.? ?Shut up! Stop making fun of me!? Calon shouted at him. ?Making fun of you? Let me tell you something, you little sh.it. Truth hurts! I don?t hurt you, the truth of yourself hurts you.? ?You?re a liar!? Calon?s fists balled so tightly, his untrimmed fingernails dug deep into his palms. Blood seeped between his whitened knuckles and dripped to the carpet. ?Since when did you gather the balls to speak to me like this? You know what I will do to you, Calon. So do as I say!? ?Bu--? ?Don?t you dare defy me!? Anger lashed out with the seat Calon had been sitting in, belting the fragile body across the face. Calon lay limp over the man?s body. He was hardly breathing now. His face was stained in coagulated blood, and his greasy hair became to his face like a fly to a piece of sticky paper. Perhaps Anger was right about this man. Perhaps Anger had saved Calon from this man?s attack. The man was known to be abusive, and had been reported on a few to several occasions of domestic abuse to his wife and children. One wouldn?t tell from the looks of this apartment, but the family was messed up. Anger had forced Calon to sneak into the apartment, and here they stayed for nearly an hour. ?Here, Calon,? Anger handed Calon the man?s rusted and dulled knife, ?Be kind, and aim for this spot right here..? Anger traced Calon?s throat. ?This blade won?t cut his skin,? Calon eyed the blade. ?Make it cut!? Anger lashed out again, only this time it was a picture frame from the small coffee table, ?Do it, or I?ll stab you in the chest with it! And don?t think for a split second that I won?t! You are mine, Calon. ?[/size]

[size=1][b]Name[/b]- Jullian ?Jules? Ray [b]Age[/b]- 26 [b]Gender[/b]- Female [b]Mech[/b]- [url=http://www.catsuka.com/interf/bdfr/buchet/tech/mecha.jpg][b]?Caboose?[/b][/url] MT-H091*: Templar Class [b]Speciality[/b]- Heavy Artillery [b]Mech Weapon[s][/b]- 120mm Heavy Machinegun [1, located on left shoulder], Fire-and-Forget 10 ton Bazooka [1, located on right shoulder], A-Class Plasma Rifle [1, location slung around the back until in use], and Megaton Impact Grenades [several dozen, location on a belt around the mid-torso of the mech]. [b]Description[/b]- [url=http://www.psycko-manga.com/gallery/babe/15-7.htm][b]Jules[/b][/url] is normally seen wearing a camo uniform. But when she?s in civilians, Jules likes to lounge around in a good pair of worn, faded, torn, blue jeans and a short, white T-shirt (which usually has some sort of rip or a series of holes). Her light, orange-red hair hangs to her mid-back, but is braided tightly when in her mech suit. [b]Personality[/b]- Jules?s personality is just as kind and gentle as her looks. She is friendly and considerate, understanding and merciful. Well, that is, when she?s not piloting Caboose of course. But once she?s in that pilot seat, Jules becomes a completely different person. Her emotions cut off and her mind focuses on the mission and keeping her team alive, or in the best possible condition. Jules can be hearty and happy in the most dire of situations, but it isn?t suggested you take her lightly; for, as simple as she may seem, Jules is quick to shove a grenade up your bazooka if you cross her. Mess with her friends and country, you?ll be meeting the barrel of her rifle. [i]*Mech serial number. "M" Mobile, "T" Tank, "H" Heavy, 091= number in production line[/i][/size]

[size=1]Honestly, if I had to choose, it wouldn't matter. Why and what do I mean? I only dream of one thing, and that is my love, and my love is my only dream. My dream is Joe, and my love is Joe. So, either way, I'll be set. [/size]

[size=1]I am a hot-head. I get angry in the drop of a hat, and everyone near me can tell. Normally, I get quiet and isolate myself as to keep from saying things I really want to say. I'm the type of person that when I get pissed off, it's best to just let me be and give me time to myself to cool off and think of what's going on. Have I hurt someone? Emotionally, yes I have. Am I proud of that? No. I have hurt someone physically, but it was sort of unintentional and intentional at the same time. A couple years ago, I was downstairs at my [now] ex's house. We were watching his cousin play PS2, and he started hitting me with a couch pillow and tickling me. So, I got mad because I asked him to stop (I was getting a headache from it) many times. I retorted with a couch pillow to his face, and he knocked his head back into the cement wall of his basement. >_> I really didn't mean for him to crack his head on the wall, but I did feel better. Normally, when I get angry, the only thing that gets hurt is myself. But if I ever get mad at you, you'll know and you'll wish you'd just kept your mouth shut. Supposedly, I'm the rutheless, cold-hearted b.itch.[/size]

[center][img]http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/cillian-murphy-01.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1][b]Show host[/b]- "33-year-old Devon Moore appeared in many independent films before making it big in Hollywood. He was truly what critics would claim 'the perfect face for charm', and had the charisma to prove it. Comfortable and confident with his sensuality and sexuality, Devon braved U.S. morale and dared Christianity with his most recent role in a daring, and down right twisted, independent film, [i]There Comes a Time.[/i] Here with us today is the man himself. Devon Moore, welcome." [host turns in her chair] [i]Applause[/i] [b]Devon[/b]- "Thank you, Stacey. It's good to be here on one of the best night time television shows. Never, in my wildest dreams--well, maybe my wildest--would I expect to be here."[Devon sets his glass of water down] [i]Laughter in the audience[/i] [b]Stacey[/b]- "It's a great pleasure to have you here. Tell us about this new film I've been hearing so much about. What kind of character do you play?" [Stacey brushes her bangs from her face] [b]Devon[/b]- "Uh, where to begin? It's a controversial part, Justin [my character] is a troubled, single father who," [pause, Devon makes empty hand gestures] "slowly deteriorates within himself. His life falls apart in, literally, a drop of a job. His wife of ten years leaves him with two, five-year-old daughters [twins], his friends are all moving forward in their lives, their careers." [Devon repositions himself in his seat] "And he can't get a grip on himself. He's the type of person who cannot handle humliation; very prideful." [b]Stacey[/b]- "I see. You said he has twin daughters?" [b]Devon[/b]- "Yes. Two very beautiful little girls. As time goes on, Justin loses his sanity, and starts to hallucinate that the daughters are not five, but are of age." [Devon scratches his chin] [b]Stacey[/b]- "He--molests his daughters?" [b]Devon[/b]- "Sadly, yes he does. But I will not speak anymore of the movie. I wouldn't want to ruin it for you. The movie may seem unorthodox, but it's powerful. There are other things in the movie that will totally change your look on the film. It really is amazing." [Devon chuckles lightly] [b]Stacey[/b]- "Will do. Moving on, we have some questions here," [pause, Devon nods and scoots closer] "First of all, other than indie acting, do you have another profession?" [b]Devon[/b]- "Well, I did flip burgers when I first started acting. I even had to hold three jobs to survive in the area I lived in. But once I started landing more gigs, the less and less time I had. So, to answer your question, I do not have any other careers. But, I will say that I have a mean burger-flipping skill." [Devon holds up his hand as if he were flipping a spatula and smiles at the camera] [i]Laughter from the audience[/i] [b]Devon[/b]- "But after this movie, I decided I needed a break. I plan on going home for a couple of years, and hope to get back into the jist of reality. Take up that burger joint again and live like a real person. Sometimes, Hollywood can be mesmerizing and frightening. You lose yourself, and I almost did. As exciting as this is to be sitting in on one of my favorite shows, I'd rather be kicking it back at home." [b]Stacey[/b]- "That's understandable. You have been on constant move for nearly seven years now, right?" [Stacey points, Devon nods] [b]Devon[/b]- "Absolutely. There's a point in your career where you need to take a year or two away from publicity. Just to get in touch with family, friends, and yourself. " [b]Stacey[/b]- "So, what will you do?" [b]Devon[/b]- "I am not completely sure. My good friend has talked me into trying to date." [b]Stacey[/b]- "Oh, that's interesting. And for your safety, we won't release the information of where you live." [Stacey laughs] [b]Devon[/b]- "As flattering as it would be to see that I had fans, I greatly appreciate the security." [i]Chuckles from Stacey, Devon, and audience[/i] [b]Stacey[/b]- "Well, Devon, it was wonderful to get some insight from you, but I'm afraid that's all we have for tonight. Please enjoy your break, and good luck with your dating." [b]Devon[/b]- "Oh, you are most welcome. And thank you for your kind words, perhaps I should find myself back here someday." [Devon stands to hug Stacey] [i]Applause[/i] [b]Stacey[/b]- "Now, a word from our sponsors." [cuts to commercial][/size]

[size=1][color=darkred]Roffle. Ah, that was a flippin' awesome quest. I went with Des into the Furnace to complete the quest for the High Priest. We had to gather 4 crystals that were spread throughout the area around the Priest's altar, while fighting through dozens of enemies to get to them. On top of that, we had to protect the Priest from random patrols/attacks by the enemy. So, what we decided to try (and to our success) splitting up. Des was playing with the most awesomested Monk in the entire game, Arik, and I with Belial--of course. He helped me in the first group, but we all had to hurry back to the Priest to protect him. While Des stayed with the Priest, I went out with the henchies (except for Cynn some of the time, she really likes Arik O_o) and gathered the crystals. But every now and again, me and the henchs had to run back to Des to help slaughter :devil: Mucho fun. Running around in the Furnace, then running back to Des and the Priest. Very good fun. Now, that nipple picture..>>; I won't tell you anything![/size][/color]

[size=1][color=darkred]No, it's just that the administration of the OB is aware of whatever goes on with the OB. There's nothing that can be done about it at this point in time. If it were so, then things would've gotten done some time ago. It's just not that simple. Me being offensive? Sure, I'll be the first to say that I'll get hot-headed. Why? Because I've been here, seen the unbelievable progress, and seen all the fixes to problems and seen how it effects the Boards. I also get defensive for people who bust their *** in trying to make a better environment, while bending over backwards to helping others out, and juggle their personal life with all of that. Should I cool down? I don't think so. Anyway, the point is, the defects in the rules will eventually get evened out. We all know that James has ever intention of revising the rules. But he's in a position where he can't really get to it as often as he desires. I'll stop speaking for him now. But I'll say again that if these errors were able to be zapped away by an admin, it would've been done by now.[/size][/color]

[QUOTE=Sage] [B]1) Introduction threads:[/B] Moderators close them all the time, saying they are agains the rules and aren't allowed, but either I'm blind or there wasn't a [I]single[/I] mention about introduction threads anywhere in the rules! How are you supposed to demand that people don't post them if it isn't stated clearly anywhere that they can't? I'm not sure but I think I remember James admitting the lack of this section from the rules once, but I thought it was fixed already! How hard could it be?[/quote] [size=1][color=darkred]For one, introdcution threads are not productive in the quality of the OB. You were, or are, concerned about the OB's quality, right? New memebers post their "Hi, I'm new!" and a moderator welcomes them to the OB, and closes their thread down soley based on the fact that it [b]will[/b] become a spamfest. It isn't like the mods are being bullies or anything. Secondly, James is working diligently on not just the OB, but on a handful of other projects. Would you blame him for not being able to update the OB as much? I'm going to hope you wouldn't. The OB is still under construction, whether you realize it or not. There are small changes that happen whenever James can afford the time. I'm sure that when he's able, everything on the OB, including the rules and FAQ's, will get updated.[/size][/color] [quote][B]2) Playing Mod:[/B] I know this should be self-explanatory, but why wasn't this listed in the "spam"-list? Also, it should be clearly defined what exactly is "playing mod". Again, you can't discipline people about things that they don't clearly know is against the rules![/quote] [size=1][color=darkred]Because it is self-explanatory. Mods are moderators for a reason. They have the characteristics needed to moderate a certain area of the OB, and that's why they are there. If the OB was "self-regulate", then there wouldn't be any mods. Playing mod defeats the purpose of the moderator, [b]and[/b] it causes confusion among new members about "who's boss?". Plus, what if someone was trying to help out in a situation they really weren't prepared for, and things went totally out of their hands? It causes a big mess, and the mod is left to try and salvage this situation. New members are aware of moderators, and they know their responsibilities. Stepping on the moderator's feet (when they clearly understand why there are mods) is taking away their job and only putting them into a corner. [/size][/color] [quote][B]3) Moderator Teams:[/B] Weren't these ditched a long time ago? Why does the FAQ still include them then? Honestly, what good does it do to tell new members to read the Rules and the FAQ if they contain invalid and outdated information?[/quote] [size=1][color=darkred]Re-read my response to the Intru Threads.[/color][/size] [quote][B]4) Arena Ratings:[/B] Aside from the issues discussed in the thread I created about these earlier, I found that the actual rules don't mention these at all. So the whole system is dependent on that new members read one sticky thread? No wonder so many new members don't know the ratings are a must... [/quote] [size=1][color=darkred]The ratings [sigh] only apply to the Arena. They are included in every sticky of the every forum of the Arena. People are asked to read the stickies, and they clearly visible.[/color][/size] [quote]So, to summarize things, I'm amazed that the Rules haven't been updated, apparently for quite some time. Yes, I may sound whiny again, but this is really a serious matter. You simply can't expect new members to abide rules that aren't written into the actual Rules! Also, if things change, like the moderating system has, it isn't unreasonable to assume that the Rules and FAQ are changed accordingly, is it? Hope I'm not offending anybody, and I honestly hope that the admins have noticed/acknowledged these errors before this thread and are about to do something about them. ;)[/QUOTE] [size=1][color=darkred]To summarize the truth and obvious, the rules are part of the OB, and the OB is under construction (like I said). Sure, there are things that aren't included and updated in the rules, but that is why we have moderators and admins. They inform members of what's going on, what's accepted and what's not, until the rules have been updated. There are plenty of mods, so the word gets around. You just need to chill. Revising an entire website is not an easy task, especially if there are other pressing matters that continue to involuntarily hold you back. These "errors" haven't effected the way the OB looks or runs. If they did, I'm sure there would be more than one person making these sort of threads about it. When the rating system came up, there was a few redundant threads about it, and the problem with it simmered down and disappeared [until recently with your previous thread, of course]. The playing mod problem will always be there subtly with people like me still hanging around. Yeah, I'll admit it, I'm in the wrong place sometimes, and I get what I deserve at the end of it all. This area has been present since the begining, and was never really a big problem. So, yeah. Take a chill pill. If this were pressing the quality of this site, then it wouldn't be as organized and one of the best forum message boards out there. [/size][/color]

[size=1][color=darkred]So, Belial made it to Sorrow's Furnace. The first quest I tried to do was escorting Kilroy. Where you have to go through the Furnace and kill various groups of baddies and that jazz. Firstly, it took me a good while to even get to the Furnace. Then, when I finally get there, and start the quest, I get really damned far into the Furnace, and Kilroy decides to get his fatself killed. There was an area where there were two groups of enemies. One group, he totally ran right through and left me to get the aggro. The second group was about 6-7 Enslaved Ettins (massive, ugly mean things that do a good deal of damage), and he decides to run directly to them. I tried to get to him, but the group that I was stuck behind kept blocking me. By the time I got to Kilroy, I started casting a Well of Blood, but he died before the spell was finished. >: ( Nevertheless, I had a blast running through Grenth's Footrpint and the Furnace itself. The scenery in the Footprint is awesome, and incredible in the Furnace. The riches you get...Des was [b]not[/b] exaggerating. When Warlock and I travled up the Footprint to get to the Camp, I banked like 1K. Then, running around in circles to get to the Furnace, I picked up about 2K of coin drops and weapons, crafting materials, etc. I kept what I needed/wanted, salvaged and/or sold the rest. So, Boss, you were looking to collect money...you're going to be very pleased.[/size][/color]

[QUOTE=Sage] This isn't a question of life and death to me, but call me a "worried citizen", if you will. [/quote] [size=1][color=#660000]Then let it go. There is nothing to worry about. Personally, I think the threads are just fine. I look through them, out of curiousity, and they live up to the rating that's tagged on them. I can't speak for every RPG creator, but I know that slapping the larger rating tag on the story isn't about being "cool" or whatever. It's just that the story they wish to carry out happens to be violent, or may become violent. People can choose to write in them, or go after the lighter threads, and that's all based on a personal decision. I'll agree that you don't really see lighter-rated RPGs often, but it's all based on the person's story and preference. The main problem that the rating system [b]had[/b] was "why do I have to do it in the first place?" I had a hard time gripping onto the reason, but now, I understand it. And agree with the system. Since it's been initiated, the only suggestions/requests/complaints I've seen is "do we have to..and why?" This question has been answered over, and over; the answer is always "yes, you have to" and the reason everyone in this thread has explained. You say it's useless because it is defeating the purpose of the system? I think not. Everyone is doing what their supposed to. It happens that they like to have more of a violent story. And you can't change what people feel.[/size][/color] [quote name='Sage']I'm sure everybody in the staff and most of us members want the great quality of these boards to maintain its level.[/quote] [size=1][color=#660000]The OB has only gotten better over they years. In fact, I've been here a little over 2 years now, and I've seen outstanding progress in quality of both threads, members, and the Boards all around. I don't see how this worn out issue with the rating system would boof the quality of the OB. Clearly, the rest of the forums break the clouds.[/size][/color]

[color=indigo][size=1]I'm going to spoil tag my responses. If you haven't seen the episodes, and don't want to ruin anything for yourself, don't read it.[/size][/color] [QUOTE=r2vq] I'm curious, although Sakura, Sasuke, and Kakashi haven't been introduced yet, the Hokage and Iruka have.[/quote] [spoiler][size=1]Those three weren't really introduced right away in the manga, either. They were introduced later in the first volume or second, I can't really remember. But I know it wasn't right off the bat. Whereas, Iruka was in the very begining.[/size][/spoiler] [quote name='r2vq']How are the voices for those two? How about Konohamaru?[/quote] [spoiler][size=1]The voices for Hokage and Iruka? Hokage's would be like I originally imagined. Sort of calm and and mellow, mature and wise. Now, Iruka's, on the other hand, was a bit higher-pitched than I would've liked to imagine. Not feminine, but not as manly as one would think a ninja would sound..[/cheese] I was a bit disappointed, but not enough to make me turn my nose at it. Konohamaru's was child-like and was expectedly annoying. But it fit his character, so it's all good. [/spoiler][/size] [quote=r2vq]How about the Jutsu names? I doubt they kept "sexy no jutsu" or "harem no jutsu" 's name. Did they? [/QUOTE] [size=1][spoiler]Hehe....yes, they did keep the "sexy no jutsu" and harem no jutsu". However, CN cut out the nosebleeding ;_;[/spoiler][/size]

[size=1][color=indigo]I just watched Naruto tonight, and I must say I'm actually a bit relieved with the voice of Naruto. I was expecting a bit more of a high-pitched/annoying voice [like Shippo's >_>]. I missed the first episode, sadly, but I will watch it tomorrow night. I'm just happy I finally get to see the anime, even if it shot up a bit. [/size][/color]

[QUOTE=Desbreko][color=#4B0082]....Arik, Amelia, or Eddie will be on hand to [strike]pull along your dead weight[/strike] accompany you. [/color][/QUOTE] [size=1][color=indigo]>:-o I think I'm handling fine! .....okay, yes. Having Arik, Amelia, or Eddie really does pull things along. Shamed. :animesigh I'm very excited. Alex sent me a link to show what new items were released into the game, and I'm anxious to get my hands on a few of what I saw. And so curious to see what other things are at hands reach.[/color][/size]

[size=1][color=#660000]Oh, all right, Neil. As per request [click on the images to enlarge]: [/size][/color] [center][URL=http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/rotting.jpg][IMG]http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/th_rotting.jpg[/IMG][/URL] [URL=http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/pout.jpg][IMG]http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/th_pout.jpg[/IMG][/URL] [URL=http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/frontal.jpg][IMG]http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/th_frontal.jpg[/IMG][/URL] [URL=http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/flex.jpg][IMG]http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b7/anne-mae/th_flex.jpg[/IMG][/URL][/center]