Zen

[color=darkred][size=1] I hear ya. Do you plan on making this centered around one town? (I was going to make a Man with No Name type of character, so I wasn't planning on being a saloon owner or town sheriff.) I just kinda liked the idea of the characters being at odd ends with one another, but having some make alliances, others not, like The Man With No Name series (which, if you're not familiar with the movies, then your missing THE greatest series of westerns ever made).[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] I was just throwing ideas out there. I realize that its similar to Lost Oddyssey, but the amnesia plot point has been used in probably fifty percent if not more, of all RPGs out there, so I was just trying to make it a little more interesting. I like the concept of unexplained and amazing power to be coupled with the whole amnesia thing. [/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] I kinda do think the idea of a generic RPG idea being laid out and then seeing what we, the players, can do within that enviroment with or within the bounds of the story. Allow us to discover our memories, our abilities, maybe even have us be amnesiac immortals like in Lost Oddyssey, discover how we became immortal somehow, etc. I think it'd be an interesting plot point, explains why people are after us (maybe they don't want us day, but we don't know that), etc. I'd be down for that.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] I like the idea of there just being some plot point, and letting people create characters to interact in the world. Maybe there's a bunch of Gold lost in the Arizona desert, waiting to be found by the first man to find it. Maybe there's an unlucky fellow with a whole lotta money on his head. Maybe there's a race to find a safe out on the range, and take it from whomever has it (like in "For A Few Dollars More"). I've never been a fan of the "fill the slot" style of sign up because it shortens up my creativity within the story.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] You know, I'd be willing to help on any kind of quality RPG idea right now. I mean, if it entails any kind of cool story line like a Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, or Oblivion, then I'm down to try and help with whatever, man. Maybe even a LoTR style thing.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] One of my new favorite songs is "The Air That I Breathe" by the Boston Metalcore band [b]All That Remains[/b]. Here's the video [URL="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GG9qlKEyV4E"]here.[/URL] Really, just an awesome song. Great lyrics, instrumentation, and the vocalist kicks it just right for me to feel it. Not to whiney, not to high pitched, not to cookie-monster. Just right. I love this band.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1][center] The following videos aren't funny, just amazing. The potential of humans, I'm telling you. You'll be left wondering "How is this even possible?" [YOUTUBE="Sesshoumaru Tricking"]5NNxZ3svIs8[/YOUTUBE] [YOUTUBE="The Rules of Tricking"]VqzyYFpHt6M[/YOUTUBE] [YOUTUBE="World's Best Tricks Vol. 2"]DQ08vVN3e7U[/YOUTUBE] [YOUTUBE="World's Best Tricks Vol. 3"]jyo80IvIeMM[/YOUTUBE] It's a community I'm trying to become a part of. I've got down smooth cartwheels with two and one hands, Capoeria sweeps and pick ups, 360 kicks, and high flying kicks. I'm trying to get down the 540 kick, the misty flips, and a no hands cartwheel, and maybe a flip, cuz those are hard.[/color][/size][/center]

[color=darkred][size=1] I'd be into that personally. I could help you with any ideas you have. I'm interested in playing with unconventional character types in the setting. Also, Clint Eastwood western's are some of my favorite movies period.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] Now all I need is a matching avatar, heh.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] Well, me and Zeke survived the crash... And to note, I never showed Athena or Joe die. I kinda just left them to Gavin. I might let him explain what happened in a few more chapters And by the way, I have a World dedicated to The Hit on TheOtaku.com now. [URL="http://www.theotaku.com/worlds/thehit"]The Hit's World[/URL] I post all the chapters there from the Hit and the Hit 2, so you can read there from start to finish if you ever have the desire. Comments would be cool too. [/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] [center] [img]http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/5513/hitmantextxp7.jpg[/img] [b]Chapter 21:[/b] ‘Til Death[/center] Raiha desperately poured a small bottle of liquid down Gavin’s gaping jaw as his head lay back on her knees. It was obvious that her needles were highly poisonous. While Raiha tended to the injured Gavin, much to my deepest confusion, Erica filled me in on the current situation. [b] “Listen, this is something you might have a hard time comprehending, but those two are married.”[/b] [b] “…. Say what?”[/b] I could only ask again, because the words just spoken couldn’t have been correct. [b] “They’ve been married for some years. But they separated sometime ago after Gavin found out about Raiha’s secret occupation.”[/b] A strange sinking feeling overcame my body all at once and I sat back for a moment thinking of the highly unlikely chain of events that have conspired in the past months of my life, and how these things were connected. [b] “You must be shitting me…”[/b] [b] “Afraid not, Zen. You are looking at the most lethal married couple in the world.”[/b] [b] “Is Gavin going to be alright?”[/b] [b] “Well, he took two very lethal doses of puffer fish venom to the forearms. However, the antidote was applied quickly. A normal human’s chances of survival at this point are around fifty-fifty. But you and I both know durable The Crusader is.”[/b] [b] “Yeah,”[/b] I laughed while I remembered our last encounter as enemies, [b] “… I can vouch for that much.”[/b] I looked over to the two in time to see Raiha lean over and kiss Gavin’s lips while his eyes slowly opened. His body was still limp, probably numb and in great pain from the dangerous dose of poison he just caught. He struggled to move as Raiha began to whisper to him some unclear sweet nothing. Erica then tapped me on my shoulder to catch my attention. [b] “I think we should give them some time alone.”[/b] her eyes jerked to the side, her head motioning toward the show. [b] “That’s fine, but where should we go?”[/b] I reached over and withdrew my odachi, scabbard and all, from the armory suitcase. I didn’t plan on being caught with my pants down again. Figuratively of course. [b] “Well, I still remember a few nice spots to visit from my last stay in Tokyo… are you feeling hungry?”[/b] [center][b]****************************[/center][/b] Erica had taken me out to a chic sushi bar a few blocks down the road, located on a busy street corner. We could watch the dense human traffic moving on the sidewalks through the large glass windows. Plates of various sushi and sashimi moved past me on a conveyer belt. Erica patiently selected several pieces of her choice. I took note and did the same, grabbing up pretty much everything that passed me. I was still dressed in my lazy travel clothes, a black Adidas running suit with white stripes down the side. My shoes matched my suit in both color and brand. Despite my snazzy threads, I still looked sloppy due to nearly 20 hours with no sleep. [b] “So, is this supposed to be our first date or something?”[/b] I wasn’t too tired to be witty. Or maybe the sleep deprivation was just loosening my inhibitions. [b] “Zen… I do believe it was but two weeks ago I nearly ended your life. Don’t you find it a bit odd to be hitting on me this soon?”[/b] Erica’s eyebrow had raised and I caught a glimpse of spunk in the normally business like woman. [b] “Oh, don’t think I haven’t forgotten. You owe me at least three more dates to make up for that.”[/b] [b] “I think that’s a bit much. I didn’t take you as one to hold grudges…”[/b] Erica placed a chunk of rice in her mouth with chopsticks, chewing with a smile on her shining lips. [b] “Are you willing to work out a better deal, then?”[/b] I took an entire piece of sushi and shoved the oversized morsel in my mouth, chewing messily. [b] “Oh, I’m sure I could offer you [i]some[/i] kind of service to make up for it…”[/b] she looked to me from the corner’s of her glasses’ lens, causing me to blush and choke on my food all at once. I was hunkered over away from her, trying force my food down my throat when the electronic door chime sounded off. The sound was followed by the first English speaking voices I’d heard since entering the country. They sounded oddly familiar. I looked over to see a pair of males dressed in a white and black suit walk forth and in a window booth behind me and Erica. The sandy haired blonde dressed in black began to speak. [b] “Man… how do they expect us find one guy in fucking Tokyo? It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack, except the needle can kill you… and the haystack is a city… that moves… Shit, I lost the metaphor.”[/b] His companion, a fair complexioned black fellow dressed in white, replied. [b] “Don’t strain yourself, I’m the brains now anyways. You’re the brawn.”[/b] [b] “Are you trying to call me stupid or something?”[/b] the blonde responded. I looked into the reflection of a soy spoon to make out there faces, but the image was too distorted to make out much more than their basic features and color. [b] “I’m not [i]trying[/i] to do anything. I was just saying, you got the physical edge now, which leaves me in a more, contemplative role.”[/b] [b] “Well, that edge came at the expense of my ass gettin’ blown up in an epic car wreck. Easily one of the greatest moments in ownage history.”[/b] [b] “You’re lucky it was into the ocean…”[/b] my heart suddenly sank into my chest. [b] “It could’ve been another road we fell onto. None of us would be here if that were the case…”[/b] [b] “You and you’re pessimism, Alex. I swear to God.”[/b] I slowly and carefully turned towards the two, knowing that what I would see would definitely not be good. [b] “Hey, I’m trying to get you in the whole ‘half glass full’ mindset. I mean, now there’s no debate of who can beat the other in a fist fight now.”[/b] My eyes set down, and my heart dropped into my stomach, I shuddered, and laid my hand on Erica’s shoulder, turning her in my direction slowly. [b] “Damn right. Now order, weakling! Mwuahahaha!”[/b] White laughed, sitting across from his partner Retribution. I’d killed them. I’d watched them die. I saw their dead, lifeless bodies floating lifelessly in the water myself. I know I did…. Why were they still alive?! [/color] [b]OOC:[/b] picture credit goes to the fabulous Erica/Revelation.[/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] I just made my first lolcat thingie at canihazcheezburger.com I think its good. [img]http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/completestore/2008/4/1/urkungfuizn128515664021035285.jpg[/img][/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] Wow, I really, really like this. Alot. Honestly I think it's some of your best work. I laughed aloud at the "So you gonna ask me out on a date or something?" part, good stuff. I look forward to reading some more. I wanna know who Toby is and why Kensley is able to make ceiling fans fall out of ceilings.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] Well, I did plan on sharing some awesome videos, but I suppose these motivational posters will have to suffice. [img]http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j114/Monkeytruck88/Guile__s_Motivational_Poster_by_Drb.jpg[/img] [img]http://www.marcofolio.net/images/stories/fun/imagedump/demotivational_posters/moms_minivan.jpg[/img] [img]http://img467.imageshack.us/img467/333/greenlanterngk0.jpg[/img] [URL="http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/4566/womenjz3.jpg"][U]picture[/U][/URL] [URL="http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/7306/motivator0f9cc9b43be95a9351312.jpg"][U]picture[/U][/URL] [URL="http://www.myconfinedspace.com/watermark.php?src=wp-content/uploads/2007/09/internet.jpg"][U]picture[/U][/URL] [URL="http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y181/Cybernator/4chan.jpg"][U]picture[/U][/URL] I made these two myself... [IMG]http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y181/Cybernator/motivator802890.jpg[/IMG] [URL="http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y181/Cybernator/Pimps.jpg"][U]picture[/U][/URL] [/color][/size] [COLOR="Indigo"] People, if the picture stretches the layout that much use a link. ~indifference[/COLOR]

[color=darkred][size=1] For me, Yu-Gi-Oh: The Abridged Series is the best. Funny as hell, constantly and consistantly. Bandit Keith is one of the funniest characters ever. "I'm didn't understand a thing you just said. Try speaking American, its the only language I understand.... In America!"[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] [b]No Country For Old Men[/b]: Amazing. Not much to say was wrong with it. Chigur (or how ever you spell it) is one of the scariest bad guys since Hannibal, the story was just great, to be expected by Cormac McCarthy and the Coen's, and really I liked everything about it. [b]Superbad[/b]: Hilarious. Loved it. Watch it or die. [b]Knocked Up[/b]: One of my favorite comedies ever now. Its good stuff, really funny, and has kind of a feel good story, I loved it. [b]American Gangster[/b]: You know the drill. The new American gang film to take the place as our generation's Godfather and Scarface. [b]The Bourne Ultimatum[/b]: I love the Bourne series as a whole and this instalment was really fantastic. I loved the fight scene in Istanbul (it was Istanbul right?) and the chase scenes were awesome as usual. I plan on buying the second DVD and watching the three in a row one day. [b]The Darjeeling Limited[/b]: One of my favorite new movies. I loved it more than I can really say. Its hard to say what I like about it exactly, but it touched something for me, because I have two younger brothers and I can see how their lives could take turns like that. I enjoyed every second of it. It was really nice to look at also.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] When I had long hair, I looked like Gene Starwind from Outlaw Star. [IMG]http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y181/Cybernator/MikeyShirtless003.jpg[/IMG] [URL="http://www.projectbag.com/outlaw_star/pics/gene30.jpg"][U]Picture[/U][/URL] And since I've gotten my hair cut, I still look like Gene Starwind, just at the end of the series. [img]http://wiki.outlawstar.net/images/GeneStarwind.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y181/Cybernator/Yuss003.jpg[/IMG] Albeit I need a tan, but the rest of my features pretty much match up.[/color][/size][COLOR="Indigo"][INDENT]I fixed the link that was stretching the layout. I hardly need to remind you of all people about that. So next time... Link it please. ~indifference[/INDENT][/COLOR]

[color=darkred][size=1] Sick. I know you'll do a good job. I appreciate it.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] [center] [img]http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/5513/hitmantextxp7.jpg[/img] [b]Chapter 20:[/b] The Ones We Love[/center] Tangible intensity filled the air as Raiha held a sharp eight-inch needle centimeters from Gavin’s throat. Gavin stood almost serenely, his eyes not diverting from Raiha’s with a look of mysterious passion. With her back to me, I could not make out Raiha’s face, however I could assume it was contorted into fury and sorrow, due to her heaving breathes and shaking voice. For a short moment, no one moved or said a thing. Calm. Quiet. A car horn sounded off loudly in the city’s distance and in a nanosecond, both bodies moved in front of me at an incomprehensible speed. Raiha’s arm shifted forward quickly, attemping to stab Gavin through the neck, however, his large body leaned to the side, his feet staying in the same place, spread apart for balance and stability. With no room to leap or jump, Gavin continued dodging Raiha’s lighting quick attacks in the same manner, ducking and weaving in between needle-point punches. It soon dawned on me that Gavin was far faster than I could have ever imagined, I’d fought the man myself, and I’d never seen even a glimpse of reflexes such as this. For a few moments, the two continued as they were, Raiha attacking and Gavin dodging. Then in a single motion, Gavin snatched Raiha’s wrists out of the air with both hands, carefully holding her hands away from his body. [b] “Raiha… please stop this.”[/b] he spoke in a calm, deep tone looking deeply into her eyes. [b] “Fuck you!”[/b] she shouted in fury, pulling her body away from him, twisting her arms in a circular motion, and releasing Gavin’s grip on her. Her body continued in the circular motion and she pin-wheeled on a single foot, bringing her heeled-shoe across Gavin’s face at a wicked angle. The Crusader’s body hinged sideways, however his feet still remained rooted firmly in the ground. As his body angled back to an upright position, Raiha swung around with her needles now in a double stabbing motion going towards his rising head and neck. Gavin’s arms quickly blocked her attack off at the elbow, circling her arms in the opposite direction and stopping them as her hands pointed towards the floor. His thumbs applied pressure to a point on top of her hands, causing her to drop the needles. Gavin attempted to keep her hands secured, but Raiha was not a weak woman. She quickly released his grip on her by twisting her wrists towards the thumb and brought her hands forward quickly in a double punch to Gavin’s solar plexus. Gavin’s body rocked back hard, hitting the crucifix in the window. I was confused while watching the fight. Gavin had yet to attack, as if he were afraid of harming the woman trying to kill him. Before I could continue my train of thought the action had started again. As the dazed Gavin recovered from the harsh blow dealt to him, Raiha continued to rain down fire with a barrage of her speedy punches and elbows, wrecking most of Gavin’s body. I had to do something, regardless of how I felt about the man, he’d saved my life. I began to push Erica aside to stop Raiha’s attack, but my weight suddenly shifted underneath me as I tumbled to the floor. Erica stood over and in front of me still. [b] “I told you not to interfere.”[/b] she said with a strict tone. Looking back to the action, my eyes caught Raiha swiftly reach into her coat’s pocket and withdraw two silver needles and bring them down in a smooth motion towards Gavin’s chest. But the tall Irishman’s guard was already waiting. The needle’s plunged into his forearm, driving deep into his flesh. He growled in anger and pushed Raiha back away from him with surprising strength. She fell back several feet and was caught by Erica. My eyes followed her as she tumbled into the other woman’s arms. I then placed my sights back on Gavin, who was busy pulling the long needles from his arm. Tossing them aside, he seethed in pain and fell onto his backside, grabbing at his wound in agony. [b] “No… no, what have I done?”[/b] Raiha’s tone switched from hellfire and fury to sickly worried. She rushed over to Gavin as his body went slowly limp. She grabbed him up by the back of the head and shoulders and held him in her lap, rubbing his hair carefully. [b] “I’m so sorry, Gavin.”[/b] [b] “You really stuck me, my little angel.”[/b] he laughed through choked breathes. [b] “Erica, get the antidote out of my bags, quick.”[/b] she commanded. [b] “But Raiha.”[/b] [b] “Just do it!”[/b] After a few moments of sitting in disbelief and confusion, I finally stood up and shouted. [b] “What the hell is going on?!”[/b][/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1]I've slowly started to become a bigger fan of [b]All That Remains[/b], a Metalcore band from Mass who's sound, while my friends tell me is influenced almost entirely by Killswitch Engage, is more suited to me than anything else in the genre. Normally, I'm a Hip Hop fan almost strictly, listening only to the best that other genre's have to offer. At the moment, [b]All That Remains[/b] is the only Metalcore band that I listen to and really I enjoy it more than most other music related to it. The super brutal guitars, the heavy, heavy drums, and the singer who's ranges from relatively easy listening singing tofull on battle cries is all great. Some of my favorite songs by them currently are: [b]Six[/b] (as featured on Guitar Hero II's bonus tracks.) [b]The Weak Willed[/b] [b]This Calling[/b] Most bands in their genre are too dark or depressed sounding for my tastes, where is [b]All That Remains[/b] feels more "aggressive" to my ears, and rarely veers from its firey sound. Love it.[/color][/size]

[quote name='SaiyanPrincessX'][SIZE="1"]I've been debating back and forth about joining the Air Force since I was in eleventh grade. I almost did, but didn't. I have always liked the idea of the military, and I think it would be something I'd enjoy doing. Whats holding me back is my love for the martial arts I do, and my church. I love working out, and doing martial arts. I say, congratulations. ^_^[/SIZE][/QUOTE] [color=darkred][size=1] From a martial artists perspective, the military actually teaches you a bit of martial arts for hand to hand combat. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Judo concepts along with other things. Also, the Marines (which is tougher, but I suppose if that's your sort of thing) have their own martial arts system, which you can take, rank up in, have a ribbon to signify your knowledge of the art if you choose to continue learning it, and eventually you start teaching it. I dunno if any other branch has that, I'm certainly not a Marine but I know that much about 'em. Also, hand to hand is a regular part of PT from my understanding thus far, so unless you're practicing Kendo or something, I think the military would actually help your martial arts, or vice versa, you'd do well because of them. Note to Starwind: My father is my recruiter actually, and I trust him for his word. He didn't sugar coat anything for me, he told me how it was and how it is, and how its gonna be, and I accepted anyways. I signed a contract saying I get my college first, and I'm hoping my father didn't lie to me about that much.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] I see what you mean. Actually, for a while, I refused to join the military unless I absolutely had to. I was too dead set on following my dreams first. But I figured that going into the military would still give me time and the opportunity to pursue my dreams while still have a steady income and base for myself if my dreams don't pan out. Also I get a free college education at my own choice university, so I'm pretty happy. To follow my dreams, I don't need a college education, those being martial arts and writing. Those are just things I can pursue in my spare time while having money and a career to support myself on. Another big concern for me was killing people, and not wanting to go to war. I joined the military to help my country, help my fellow soldiers, not kill people. So I took up Paralegal where I pretty much just write up court reports and what not. Once I'm done with college, I'll be helping people more directly, and I'll also be in a leadership position, which will give me a bit of self accomplishment along with cool job. But the military isn't for everyone, definetly. I can see where you, Rach, being a music major (am I correct?), the military couldn't really service you much. For me though, I'm just using it as a tool to gain my education.[/color][/size]

[color=darkred][size=1] So, many people may be suprised to know that during my hiatus, I joined the United States military in the Army National Guard. Currently, I'm a Private 2nd Class, and I just recently had my first drill weekend. Next October, I ship off for basic and after that, I'm going to college, being paid to do so by the military, for a Psychology degree, and then I'm going to officer's school in active duty Army. I plan on becoming a military psychologist and treating PTSD victims and other people. My life's finally got direction. But right now, my job in the Guard, after I get outta basic, is Paralegal, so I won't be shooting anybody or running down any battlefields. That's cool beans. So I guess, I'm asking. What is your opinion on military service? Would you ever serve in your military? What's your opinion on the military? Discuss.[/color][/size]

[URL=http://p-images.veoh.com/image.out?imageId=user--Grimmjow-68.jpg&version=4]Picture 1[/URL] [URL=http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee146/Jessica_aka_Misa/grmj.jpg] Picture 2[/URL] [URL=http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u207/Amyz_Amazing/Wallpapers/GrimmjowReleasedForm.jpg]Picture 3[/URL] I'd like very much a Grimmjow Jeagerjaques Avatar and Banner if possible. I've provided some reference pics to be used but feel free to use a better pic if you have one available. Feel free to use any color scheme or words. Though my name and/or the phrase "Tear You Apart" would be cool. I'd really be happy if this one got anything.

[color=darkred][size=1] [center] [img]http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/5513/hitmantextxp7.jpg[/img] [b]Chapter 19:[/b] Old Acquaintances.[/center] A flood of strange emotions flooded over me, but strangely, dread was absent. Here stood before me the man who could have and should have killed me, but here also stood the same man who had saved my life. The same man who spared the life of a close friend, and as far as I’m concerned, my own life. He stood in the center of the room, examining the small beds inconspicuously, as if I shouldn’t be surprised by his presence. His crucifix sent a cross-shaped shadow across the room from the window’s light. He slowly turned his large frame towards me, and nodded in acknowledgment. [b] “Well, hello there… Boss.”[/b] I attempted my best to disguise my shock, [b] “What’re you doing here Crusader?”[/b] [b] “Well…. The usual I suppose. God’s work. And please, call me Gavin would you?”[/b] [b] “Are you trying to make friends with me or something?”[/b] My hand slowly reached towards my sheath that was not there. I still hadn’t unpacked my bags. [b] “I suppose you could say that.”[/b] [b] “What the hell is that supposed to mean?”[/b] [b] “You owe me, young man. First you try to kill me,”[/b] Gavin consciously ran his hand across a discolored scar across his throat, left there courtesy of me, [b] “And then I consecutively saved your life twice.”[/b] [b] “I don’t owe you shit! You tried to kill me first!”[/b] [b] “I suppose that lays the record at two to one, then… Regardless, I’m not here to collect at this moment. I just want to protect my investment, until the proper time presents itself.”[/b] [b] “You don’t own me, Gavin…”[/b] [b] “Is that how you thank your guardian angel?”[/b] Gavin’s expression quickly changed from smarmy sarcasm to a sudden disbelief. [b] “Gavin…”[/b] Raiha’s voice muttered from behind me. I turned quickly to see her and Erica staring through the open doorway. Before I could speak, or even blink, Raiha’s body had disappeared and shot past me like a bullet. I began to utter words, [b] “What the fu- “[/b] but Erica had already leapt in front of me as I turned to confront Raiha. [b] “Do not get involved in this, Zen.”[/b] Looking past Erica’s shoulder, I saw that Raiha stood in an aggressive stance, her hand outstretched, holding a needle to Gavin’s throat while he stayed still and silent. [b] “But he’s not here to cause anything…”[/b] I tried to move past the bodily obstacle before me, but Erica grabbed my arm tightly, holding me still with surprising strength. [b] “You don’t understand, Zen. This goes beyond anything you think you know.”[/b] I was about to speak again when I heard Raiha’s voice mutter something softly through tears. [b] “I’ll kill you…”[/b] [/color] [b]OOC:[/b] Please forgive the extreme shortness, but my day has been busier than I can explain, and I needed to get this part out of the way. Tomorrow, I'll have another chapter up, and I can assure there will be some action involved. Consider this the prologue.[/size]