Dragon Warrior

[size=1]Thanks, BK. I think we did pretty dang well this round. We pulled through together and made some fantastic stuff. I can see this being a good competition ahead of us :)[/size]

[size=1]I'm happy Sakura is fine. I mean, part of me wanted her to die for that morbid dramatic effect (no offense to Sakura, of course), but I still wanted her to live--that being my sensitive and caring side. Good work, Affleck. You sure do well with this! I see you took things into consideration and introduced more personality to your writing. The line "His gun was back home in my face" was perfect. Stuff like that gives it more attitude and totally more interesting to read. Keep that up! The rest I've already told you personally. So get to it.[/size]

[size=1]Actually, Zeke, he showed mercy to me :) I'm livin' in my flippin' sweet suite, baby! With a beautiful woman... who nags at me... all the time... damnit, Boss! You don't show mercy to any of your characters! Anyways, I finally finished all the chapters. I definitely think it's improving. Though I can see where Shy is coming from, I see a large difference between this and Kill Adam. You're getting better at describing, which was already your strong point. Now just take what I told you in PM and really start using your character's personality to up your writing. Especially when continuing the [b]Boss VS Gavin[/b] match, I'm sure it'd put ten times more dramatics into it if you really used The Boss' personality. It's apparent you're good at creating characters, so you'll be fine with everyone else. Gavin is pretty cool. Then again, what Gavin isn't? ;)[/size]

[size=1]Okay, my LOLanauts, our entry was first up and we're now in business. The flag looks superb thanks to Kitty. If anyone has objections and wishes to make a change, do post now. I think we're off to a good start ;) [b]To BK:[/b] Oh, well, I meant student independent films. That's all I do for now myself. I've made well over two hours of short movies with my pals and it's great fun. You just need a camera and a program to edit it and you're set! [b]To Rach:[/b] I think most artists doubt their work at first. I know I doubt all my songs eventually, despite how much I like them when I first start writing them.[/size]

[center][img]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v332/PicKitty/OBSurvivorTeambanner1.jpg[/img] [b][size=4]The Laugh Out Louds[/b][/size] [i]Formerly Team James[/i] [img]http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/9089/lols7if.jpg[/img] [i]The Laugh Out Louds is not just a group--it's a group with a really funky name. Nevertheless, it suits them well. Full of originality, humor, and creativity, the Laugh Out Louds are determined to deliver 110% or more and bring justice to the challenges. To those about to LOL, we salute you.[/i][/center]

[size=1]Yep, and I'll check it in a second, BK ;) Haha. I just didn't realize you wanted us to ask questions too. Now looking back at your post, I noticed you said that. Boy, do I feel silly. Haha. Okay... [b]To BK:[/b] Have you ever made any independent films? If so, what were they? If not, do you plan to before getting involved in the actual career? [b]To Kitty:[/b] Do you still use Photoshop for your graphics or have you gone toward different programs? [b]To My Peanut :):[/b] How has everything been?! It's been ages! Yeesh. Okay, anyways, how's the college life over there? I know mine is crazy, but I haven't heard about yours in a while. [b]To Rach:[/b] Since music is your life, do you plan to ever compose and record music in the future?[/size]

[size=1]Then it looks like it's all decided. I'm captain, our color is Green, Kitty's the flag maker, and we're The Laugh Out Louds. Darren's truely the last one to have to put in on the vote. It's up to him now. But since this is all being pressured for time, I'd say try making some flags right now, Kitty ;) Green and that say "The Laugh Out Louds." Just so we'll be ready for anything.[/size]

[size=1]Haha, honestly, that was the name I just pulled out of a hat quickly, but I actually like it the most out of my suggestions too. Funny thing is I never use the phrase "LOL" unless I'm parodying it ;) Hehe. So, as of right now, the official things are: [b]Team Color:[/b] Green [b]Team Captain:[/b] DW [b]Flag Creator:[/b] Kitty I think we've all agreed Kitty should make the flag, so it's now up to her to accept and then make it. We just need to officially decide on our team name.[/size]

[size=1]Okay, folks. The results are in and Round One is complete. I'm sorry this took so long. I lost my internet for a little over a day due to bad weather. Here it is, nevertheless. Your top five, judged solely, yet fairly by me. I took all critiques into consideration and tried my best to take your opinions as well as what's fair into my efforts.[/size] [center][u]Round One Top Five[/u] [b]First Place[/b] - [i]Vicky[/i] - 5 Points [b]Second Place[/b] - [i]Anomaly[/i] - 4 Points [b]Third Place[/b] - [i]Shinmaru[/i] - 3 Points [b]Fourth Place[/b] - [i]Sara[/i] - 2 Points [b]Fifth Place[/b] - [i]Desbreko[/i] - 1 Point[/center] [size=1]My reasonings to as to why these people got these places are simple. I can't say everyone else were not interesting at all. These five had traits that showed through for this round, as everyone will have the chance to do for each round. Vicky took first because of, despite it being taken by a webcam, her picture was quite intriguing and artistic. Her hobbies went along well with her to make such an interesting person. Anomaly brought funk to the competition by taking a completely different point of view. With her creativity by using some familiar, yet altered lyrics placed nicely with an amusing parody (despite The Boss' opinion ;) Haha), she surely pulled through with originality. Her personality really shined here. Shinmaru also tried a different approach. The picture quality wasn't amazingly fantastic, but it's not always about who can out photoshop the others. His witty humor gave a completely different atmosphere to the round and therefore made him worth the third spot. Sara definitely brought out some unusualness with her whole "dead animal" deal. And we love her for it ;) It was new, interesting, and quite possibly the most bizarre, yet intriguing photography hobby I've heard of yet. Her photo was fun and artistic to boot. I so wish there was a dead rabbit in her lap, though. It'd set it all off in sparks. I know it may almost come off as being a suck-up or favorable to an admin, but Desbreko's style was just amusing to most. Whether he was being compared to a scared hobo or some form of turtle, his picture alone earned him a place in the top five. He proves you don't have to go far to find a little "Oomf!", if you know what I mean. And if you don't, then sorry. You just... are... yeah. I'm currently fixing everyone's OtakuBucks Bank Accounts for those who may have gained money or those who may have lost some. Points are being awarded to the deserving members in the competition as well. Contestants, report immediately to the Round thread for the next... er... well... round. I hope you enjoy it even more than this one and I also hope we get some interesting results :) Good luck.[/size] [center][b][size=4]Betting Is Now Open.[/size][/b][/center]

[center][img]http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/6750/round23iv.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1]Round One went smoothly, but don't get comfy. Now we're going to start getting heavy on you. And the interviews and challenges may strike you as bizarre and unusual. You know you just can't wait to answer those questions or take those pictures. So let's get to it![/size] [b]Round Two Picture:::[/b] [indent][size=1]Okay, girls and boys, this one should prove fun and get all of you shy birds out of your nests. Let's see your wild side by taking an action photo in the wild! Feel free to swing from trees and jump over tarpits. This is a good time to get crazy. Show your creative side and really bring out your personality. Don't think you can't be artistic here too.[/size] [b]Requirements:[/b] [list][*]Must be outdoors. [*]Must be an action shot (it [i]is[/i] possible to pose for action shots, you know). [*]Must not be blurry (movement can often cause blur, so be careful). [*]Must be 500x600 pixels at most.[/list][/indent] [b]Round Two Interview:::[/b] [indent][size=1]We seem to be in the theme of action in nature here, so let's try to get some of your opinions on things similar. Try these questions on for size...[/size] [b]Questions:[/b] [list][*]If you could combine two animals, what would they be, and why? [*]If you had to film an action movie, what location in the world would you think would suit the most exciting action scene ever? (In other words, where would you film it?) [*]Let's say you ruled a country. Whether your economy prospers or not is up to you. In otherwords, you can be a harsh ruler to your people or a kind one. But what of food? Do you vary in vegetation and agriculture? Do you have a large marketing system? Perhaps some world wide food industries were founded in your nation. The question is, how do you run your country's food situation following those guidelines? This takes more thought, folks. You can choose to make your food of plenty or not. What's it going to be?[/list][/indent] That should satisfy you all for now. Let's see what you've got! This round will end next [b]Saturday, the 27th of January.[/b] For those of you who aren't in the contest, feel free to now bet and critique.

[b]1. Introduction Of The DW[/b] [indent][size=1]Okay, so I'm Dragon Warrior, as you know. My real name is Gavin Kendrick Brown. My main passions are movies and music. I plan to become a famous film actor who directs, writes, and stars in his own movies. If all else fails, I'll join a rock band. I'm currently [i]in[/i] a rock band called [b]Red Sky Romance[/b], and we're alternative indie pop rock (quite the genre, I know). I play the keyboard/piano for the band as well as lead vocals (so, yes, I sing, but poorly, I'd say). So there, I'm based around acting and playing music. But I like to just about anything else too. I draw, do photography, graphic design, sports, hang with friends, go to the movies, run, write (big time!), make independent films, make cartoons (including animated ones, as some of you may know), and etc. [center][img]http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/4133/outsidegavin39jg.jpg[/img][/center] I just graduated high school last year and now attend a small community college to get my grounds before transferring to the big Michigan State University next Fall as a Theatre Major. I'm a very optimistic person and love life. I try to make the best of it, even if I'm stuck working at McDonalds right now as the drive-thru order-taker/dishwasher/laundry washer/everything else under the sun extraordinaire. I'm always on the run now, whether it's with college, the two plays I'm currently starring in, or--as I said before--living in Hell's Outhouse (AKA, work). My personality consists of, as I said before, a positive outlook on things. I try to be as nice as I can to everyone and though I have the tendency to come off as conceited, it's all just for humor purposes and I'm truely not too full of myself. I know some people once long ago didn't like me for that particular reason. I also tried ruling the boards once and overthrowing James, but that's another story. Humor is my crutch. I use it for almost everything, trying to keep laughter in my life. I love to make people laugh and feel better--it is truely one of the best feelings you'll ever have. I'm a big time [b]romantic[/b]. Despite what some may say, it is not weak to go out of your way to do something special for someone you care for. I go to tremendous lengths to do romantic things for girls. I like to prove nice guys do exist. That's about it for me. I do love friends and of course I'd like to get to know you all better (even you, BK, because you're so insistant we all get lovey dovey ;) Haha). So here I am. I'm ready to take on the world.[/size][/indent] [b]2. It's All In The Name[/b] [indent][size=1]Names are difficult to choose, but I have a trillion to select from. I have no idea what you guys are really going for, but if we're looking for something simple like [b]The Desperados[/b] or what-have-you, I have a few that may work. I mean, I'm all for the ones you guys are spouting out. We just really need to come down and decide on one. Uhh, I'll just throw some out there and we can all decide on something as time rolls on (hopefully soon). [list][*][b]The (Insert Color) Daggers[/b]- This name matches with our color. Whatever color we choose can be inserted into the name. If Red was chosen, for example, we'd be The Red Daggers. [*][b]The Coffee Consumers[/b]- Just for fun, it's an unusual name, I know. I thought it was quirky. We don't all necessarily drink coffee (I rarely do, unless it's cappachino). But fun fun! [*][b]The Knights On The Town[/b]- Oh yes. Oh yes. You know it. [*][b]The Hat Thieves[/b]- Coming from a story idea I had a while ago, The Hat Thieves were a robber gang. I just think it's fun. And we can all wear different stylish hats to represent ourselves :D Yay! [*][b]The Laugh Out Louds[/b]- LOL. 'Nuff said. [*][b]The (Insert Color) Rooks[/b]- Same thing as the Daggers one. Our team color goes in it. But Rooks is different, in terms to chess. Castles in chess are the shiz.[/list] Now I dunno if we can have team themes, but I think it'd be kind of cool if we did somewhat have a theme. Being in a rock band, I know the friendship between bandmates and how strong it can be. You rely on each other completely. If someone messes their part up, the whole song goes down. It's truely a group effort. That's why I think we should theme our team as a band. Rock band, punk band, whatever band. Just a band. Some of my names above might come off sounding like band names (particularly because some of them were old selections for my band back when I was naming it). I just think it'd be neat and I'm throwing it out there. Just so you guys can give me your two cents. Maybe you guys would want a different theme. Throw it out there.[/size][/indent] [b]3. Shades Of LOL[/b] [indent][size=1]Besides black and white (which aren't really colors, scientifically), I adore green. So naturally I'd back that up. But apparently the larger vote in the group is for a blue color. Now if I just go lay on my back and say, "I'll let you guys decide," things will never be done because we'll all do that. Haha. So I'll root for my [b]green[/b] anyhow.[/size][/indent] [b]4. Aye, Aye, Cap'n![/b] [indent][size=1]Though I will gladly accept the job as Team Captain, I will still nominate [b]BKstyles[/b] for the job 'cause he seems to have a good head on his shoulders. And it's crazy--I didn't even realize when I put "Captain" as my name that if I got Team Captain, it'd match. Funny. I was just referring to pirate captains... Haha.[/size][/indent] [b]5. Represent![/b] [indent][size=1]I, myself, like to graphic design, but I am not nearly as good as Kitty. I will definitely back everyone up in saying she should make our flag, if she wishes. Cheers to you, [b]Kitty[/b]![/size][/indent] [b]EXTRA: To BKstyles:[/b] [indent][size=1]You know, I have contemplated that before. It's a hard choice to make because you're so used to seeing Depp do it and, quite frankly, master it. Then again, of course he masters his own creation. Who better knows their own work than themself? We have not seen anyone else play Jack Sparrow, so we cannot say whether Depp is truely the best or not. But I really can't say I can think of actors that would do a better job. I'm really digging deep into my actor database of knowledge in my brain and it's hard. I think of all the actors who are geniuses at character development: Robin Williams, Jim Carrey, etc. But not even they could do the job justice because they wouldn't feel the part, I don't think. Of course, they'd make Sparrow completely different. And that's where your question opens to many more views. More or less, there are actors I'd love to see play the part, but I don't know if anyone can do Depp's Sparrow better than Depp himself. The man's genius with the parts he plays. He's a one-of-a-kind, jack of all trades actor who can't be touched talent-wise. And I'm sure I sound like a giddy Depp fanboy right now, but I'm actually not an amazingly large fan of his work (he just happens to be in a lot of what I like). From an actor's point of view, he is just good at what he does. And I hope to become even half as close to what he's accomplished someday when I too become a film actor. Sorry, I didn't fully answer your question, but I'm afraid I have no true answer.[/size][/indent]

[b]1. What name would you like to be used for you during this competition?[/b] [size=1][indent]Captain[/indent][/size] [b]2. What is your age and gender?[/b] [size=1][list][*]Age: Nineteen [*]Gender: Male[/list][/size] [b]3. What country do you come from?[/b] [size=1][indent]United States of America[/indent][/size] [b]4. What areas of OtakuBoards you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses? (Choose one or two for both.)[/b] [list][*][b]Strengths:[/b] Social Interaction, Creative Writing/Literature [*][b]Weaknesses:[/b] Anime/Manga, Video Games/Computers[/list] [b]5. Name one member of OtakuBoards that you consider your friend here.[/b] [size=1][indent]Anomaly. We have slowly became close friends and now I consider her one of my best. She's always there for me and I'll always be there for her. Mad lobins.[/indent][/size] [b]6. What one thing would you take with you to a deserted island?[/b] [size=1][indent]I'd bring company. As selfish as it may be to drag someone along with, it makes everything better when you have someone there with you. A best friend, a soulmate, even an enemy. Yes, an enemy would be fine because over time, your differences will resolve and you'll both realize you're both in the same pickle and you need to work together to get out of it. Just like in the movies. Besides, when it all comes down to it, friends are truely the only thing that can make you happy when all else fails. And if none of my friends would come, maybe I'll bring a muppet. That counts as company and their crazy, fabricated antics will always be good for a laugh--right down to the last moment they're breathing before I cannibalize them over angry and crazed hunger.[/indent][/size] [b]7. Why do you want to participate in OtakuBoards Survivor 4?[/b] [size=1][indent]I have never participated in an OB Survivor game yet and I'm curious how it will flow. I am apparently never around when sign ups are or when the event is even occurring, so I completely miss it most of the time. But this time I feel I'll take a shot at it, if I get in. Something wrong with some good competitive fun with your fellow Boardmates.[/indent][/size]

[size=1]Interesting work, mate. Being an Otaku Parody writer myself, I have nothing against people writing fanfics, as long as they're done well. You aren't doing too bad at all. The story is thick, well set, and has the solid pillars to keep it up. You definitely have an imagination for mobs and stuff. Naturally, I don't like it simply because I'm in it. As I said, the story is good and the characters are gripping. I await to see Joe and Annie in action (why do I think of the White Stripes with them? I have no idea). There's definitely a positive future for this. Now I will come down on you for the sake of constructive critiques. You have a tendency to write out sentences that are in a way almost rambling. They're on the verge of run-on sentences. Not to sound mean or anything. I'll throw an example out.[/size] [indent]"She followed me quickly with the blade of what had to be a wakizashi glistening in the moon light coming in from the window."[/indent] [size=1]Now, see, good description. Your description is great and that's what makes your writing strong. But don't try to fit too much into one sentence. Read that sentence out loud and you can see how it kind of comes off oddly. Didn't it seem to drag on? You can easily split that sentence up. "She followed me quickly with the blade of what had to be a wakizashi. It waved around as she darted, the sword edge glistening in the moonlight from the window." That's simply an example, of course and most certainly not the best of writing, but it's there. That's just the point I'm trying to make. You're doing very well. I'm intrigued to see more. As I already said, I wanna see Joe and Annie in action. And, of course, myself doing what I do. Carry on![/size]

Okay, everyone. Bets are in and now the critiquing starts. [b]Don't even think about changing your bets now either because I have them all logged away, so it'd do you no good ;)[/b] However, you may now throw in your two cents and it may help you. We're at the stage where we will vote for Round One contestants. You, of course, may only give critiques to those who have actually submitted an entry. If someone did not, they cannot be voted on in this round. To give critiques, simply look at the guidelines in the first post of this thread. Good luck! Critiques will go 'til Wednesday night close to 11pm (EST). [b]Also![/b] Charles and Alan had to drop out of being judges for their own reasons. The spots are officially open and can be filled as long as they're not a contestant. Do contact me if you're interested and we'll see what happens. (Also, if you become a judge, your betting account will be removed. Judges cannot bet). [center][size=4][b]Start Critiquing![/b][/size][/center]

Well, as you know, I have no knowledge of shinobis pretty much. Plus, I've never seen Naruto nor read the manga, so I can't really slam you for being too similar to it as you said. So I'll get to the essentials, especially since you're not just writing for fans of shinobis, but for the little guys like me who have no prior intellect on the subject. Here's the nitty-gritty: You have pretty good grammar. A few spelling errors arose, but that's most likely typos and can easily be fixed with a quick look over. (Like you spelt capital wrong in one of the starting paragraphs). My main concern is it's hard to follow. It can be a bit confusing, not because the facts are vague, but because you jump around a lot. Something will be going on or it's being explained and you suddenly throw a note in about something that you felt should also be known. The funny thing is, in real novels, those would be excellent spots for endnotes ;) You can do the same thing here too. Let me show you... [indent]He survived all of the assassinations. When Marajin first heard about this from the Strojin, the Jin of the Academy of Storm, Suvakao, the Hebi could not believe his ears. [b]How could a mere boy ? the Strojin said Izumi was seven when the Jin gave the order ? survive these attacks.[/b] Especially from tajins, who are squad leaders of each choujin team?[/indent] It's true that explaining he was seven is a valuable fact, but it's not properly placed in the text. What I said before about the endnotes could be particularly helpful to you. Instead of doing it that way, you can do it like this: [indent]He survived all of the assassinations. When Marajin first heard about this from the Strojin, the Jin of the Academy of Storm, Suvakao, the Hebi could not believe his ears. How could a mere boy survive these attacks? [1] Especially from tajins, who are squad leaders of each choujin team? Blah blah blah. END OF PROLOGUE. [size=1]1.) The Strojin said Izumi was seven when the Jin gave the order for his assassination.[/size][/indent] The thing with endnotes is you can have these facts given, but not interrupt what is being said in the main text. All the reader has to do is, when they see a number next to the statement, they have to simply scroll down to the bottom where the story is done and read the endnote with that number. Now, obviously you can just revise your sentences; you don't necessarily have to write endnotes. It's just an idea and they can be fun to use. Having said that, your grammar wasn't the only good thing. You built up some interesting characters and backgrounds that make the reader eager to see how these four students progress. I'm not aware of the termonology (Marajin, etc.), but as the story progressed, I put two and two together and got the main idea of it. So I think it's going well. There are just those few things to keep in mind: [list][*]Proof-read for typos if you haven't already. (Sometimes you miss them). [*]Avoid rambling and jumping around your facts. [*]Remember that you're writing for those not-so-knowledgeable of the subject. Then again, not everyone is as stupid as me when it comes to things like shinobis.[/list] Good luck with the rest.

[size=1]Shinmaru's correct. Just because someone else takes it doesn't mean it can't be your creative side as well. It's not just who takes the picture, but the subject in the picture that makes the end product special.[/size]

[center][img]http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/3707/otakutiesnz1.jpg[/img] [img]http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/9339/round3listqa5.jpg[/img][/center] [b]The Points As Of Before Round One:::[/b] [indent][size=1][i]Anomaly[/i]- 4 Points [i]Baron Samedi[/i]- 0 Points [i]Blayze[/i]- 0 Points [i]Boo[/i]- 0 Points [i]cancer[/i]- 0 Points [i]celestialcharm[/i]- 0 Points [i]Clurr[/i]- 0 Points [i]Darren[/i]- 3 Points [i]DeathKnight[/i]- 0 Points [i]Desbreko[/i]- 6 Points [i]di.fm[/i]- 0 Points [i]Ezekiel[/i]- 0 Points [i]Ikillion[/i]- 0 Points [i]Japan_86[/i]- 0 Points [i]Jokopoko[/i]- 0 Points [i]Katana[/i]- 0 Points [i]Kazuko[/i]- 0 Points [i]Kitty[/i]- 0 Points [i]Lady Asphyxia[/i]- 0 Points [i]MistressRoxie[/i]- 1 Points [i]Mr. Maul[/i]- 0 Points [i]nezzyjean[/i]- 0 Points [i]Ozymandius Jones[/i]- 0 Points [i]Peanut[/i]- 0 Points [i]Perfection[/i]- 0 Points [i]Retribution[/i]- 0 Points [i]Revelation[/i]- 0 Points [i]RiflesAtRecess[/i]- 0 Points [i]sakurasuka[/i]- 0 Points [i]Sara[/i]- 2 Points [i]Shinmaru[/i]- 3 Points [i]Sinistra[/i]- 0 Points [i]Stuart[/i]- 0 Points [i]taperson[/i]- 0 Points [i]The Boss[/i]- 4 Points [i]Veritas[/i]- 0 Points [i]Vicky[/i]- 5 Points [i]SHUN[/i]- 0 Points [i]White[/i]- 2 Points [i]Zidargh[/i]- 0 Points[/size][/indent] [center][img]http://img477.imageshack.us/img477/3918/round1ex6.jpg[/img][/center] Okay, everyone! Here's Round One, ready to go! If you're a contestant from the list in the first post of this thread, you may participate. Otherwise, you may give critiques to contestants and even bet! Check the other OtaKuties thread for more information on that. But for now, onto the good stuff. [b]Round One Picture:::[/b] [indent]The first round we're going easy on you. Simply make a good black and white photo. Black and white photos are often very stylish and come out really nicely. Let's see what you can do! Add anything else to it you want to make it more creative. [b]Requirements:[/b] [list][*]Photo is black and white. [*]At the most 500x600 pixels.[/list][/indent] [b]Round One Interview:::[/b] [indent]Like the picture part, we're taking it easy on you guys for now. Let's just get to know you a bit better. Just simply answer the following questions as thoroughly as you can (not too lengthy, just enough to give us an idea). Length is important. Too little won't give us enough to work with and vote for you. Too much may bore the public. Keep that in mind. [b]Questions:[/b] [list][*]What's your favorite hobby? [*]What do you think your best personality trait would be? (Kindness, humor, etc.)[/list][/indent] That's it, everyone. Good luck to you on this round. It'll close [b]Sunday, January 14th, 2007.[/b] Feel free to post your submission anytime from now to then. Betting is now also open (see the other thread for details on that). Good luck again and if you have any questions, IM or PM me. Thanks! [b]Note:[/b] If you're unable to participate in a round, that's fine. Just contact me and tell me. Otherwise, if you miss two rounds without communicating me, you'll be eliminated. Thank you :)

[center][img]http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/3707/otakutiesnz1.jpg[/img] [img]http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/9339/round3listqa5.jpg[/img] This thread is the part of the contest where the public may get involved. It is used for the critiques of contestants and the all-new betting system! Read on to learn more![/center] [b]Critiques:::[/b] [indent]After every round ends, the public will begin their scoring of the contestants. Though I previously stated that voting will be done where members literally vote their favorites, Charles and I have developed a better system that will also let the public do more than simply shout names they fancy. It's simple: when each round ends, anyone (aside from contestants) may begin critiquing the contestants. You will post who your favorite contestant(s) is/are and the one(s) that were/was lacking a bit. You'll give constructive critiques about what you enjoyed in their submission for the round or what they could try and do better next time. Then, after the "Voting Session" is over, the panel of judges (Charles, DeadSeraphim, and myself) will look over the critiques given by you, the public. We will then award the top five with points like normal: [list][*]1st Place- 5 Points [*]2nd Place- 4 Points [*]3rd Place- 3 Points [*]4th Place- 2 Points [*]5th Place- 1 Point[/list] Though some of you may scoff at this idea, it does help secure some fairness in the contest as well and your critiques are what sway our judgement, so be specific with your notes! So in the end, just follow these steps: [b]1:[/b] When I say the round is done and voting is open, you may begin. [b]2:[/b] Make a post in [i]this[/i] thread stating your critiques on your favorites and least favorites of that round with what you liked and what you didn't like. [b]3:[/b] Wait patiently like a good Otakulite for the three judges to post their results and begin the next round. Of course, if you think your job is less fun now, why not take up your gambling side? Read on to learn what I mean.[/indent] [b]Betting:::[/b] [indent]Introducing one of the most exciting features of The OtaKuties Contest, the Betting System! The public and contestants alike may bet "OtakuBucks" on the people in the contest for who they think will get a certain place. It's great fun and it'll save you money by not making you go to a real casino and blow all your cash there. The system is simple and fun! Each member who wishes to bet starts with 200 OtakuBucks. You cannot bet more than you have, so at the very beginning, the most you can bet is 200 OtakuBucks. Place as much money as you can on a contestant when the Betting Window is open and if, at the end of the round, the contestant gets the place you bet they would, you win the money you bet back and more! For example: This scenario is being used as if Charles wasn't a judge. [i]I announce that the round has began and the betting window is open. You have 200 OtakuBucks. You bet 150 OtakuBucks Charles will get 2nd Place this round. The betting window closed when the round ends. Everyone starts critiquing. The voting session ends and the judges make their decision. The scores are announced and Charles did end up getting 2nd place. You will back your 150 OtakuBucks as well as 150 more. So in the end, you win 300 OtakuBucks and now have 350.[/i] The betting is simple. You can bet on as many members as you want (I suggest bet on only a few, at most) as long as you have enough OtakuBucks. To begin your betting session, just simply post in this thread and I'll start your OtakuBucks Bank. You can always come back to this post and check how much is in your OtakuBucks Bank. [b]You must either join betting during Round 1 or Round 2.[/b] Joining during Round 3 or later is not allowed. In other words, you must place a bet during Round 1 or 2 to be entered into the Betting Contest portion of the event. As said before, your betting maximum is how many OtakuBucks you have. The least amount you can bet is 50 OtakuBucks. All betting will occur while the round is open and contestants are posting their pictures and answering their questions. Betting will stop when the round ends and critiques begin. All critiques end when I say so and then the judges give their scores. A new round will begin and betting will start once more. The cycle will continue as that. Everyone can bet, even contestants. The only ones who can't are the three judges. The benefit of betting is that the person(s) with the most OtakuBucks after all rounds are done get to choose the style/theme of the picture for the last round as well as the interview questions for the last round. Yes, there will be a special ending round later. So get betting![/indent] If there are further questions on critiques, betting, and posting as a contestant, feel free to IM me or PM me. I will answer any of your questions. [center][size=4][b]Betting Window Is Now Closed. Critiques Are Now Open.[/b][/size][/center] [b]OtakuBucks Bank Accounts:::[/b] [indent][size=1][i]Retribution[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Sandy[/i]- 250 OtakuBucks [i]Tekkaman[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Shy[/i]- [i]Broke![/i] [i]indifference[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Swedish Chef[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Aaryanna[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Nerdsy[/i]- [i]Broke![/i] [i]NIKI12345[/i]- 200 OtakuBucks [i]ForgotteN-HerO[/i]- 150 OtakuBucks [i]Kurayami Oji[/i]- [i]Broke![/i] [i]MissWem[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]BKstyles[/i]- 50 OtakuBucks [i]Darren[/i]- 400 OtakuBucks [i]Ezekiel[/i]- 50 OtakuBucks [i]Rachmaninoff[/i]- 200 OtakuBucks [i]Dodeca[/i]- 250 OtakuBucks [i]SunfallE[/i]- 200 OtakuBucks [i]RiflesAtRecess[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Veritas[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Mariskah[/i]- 100 OtakuBucks [i]Kitty[/i]- 50 OtakuBucks [i]Raiyuu[/i]- 400 OtakuBucks[/size][/indent]

[b]SIGN UPS ARE CLOSED.[/b] Please see the "Round One" thread to begin ;)

[size=1]Matthias stayed quiet for quite a while after what had been said. He saw that Ceredwin was loosening up, but she blocked off everything he said like a large barrier, nevertheless. Instead, he began turning to his attention to the wilderness. It had just occurred to him they were traversing through dark woods at night, in an area he wasn't very fond of. His nearby town was now out of sight and all that was visible was the half moon peering through the eerie canopy above. A noise echoed about the trees and Matthias got spooked. He almost clung to Ceredwin's cloak, but figured he wouldn't find much safety with the woman willing to chop off his fingers with her dagger for just smirking at her. Nevertheless, he kept close to her. He really had no choice anyways. She constantly kept watch of him. And he knew he wasn't in enough shape to outrun a trained bounty hunter. Overtime he grew weary. He wasn't a night person. The most he stayed up for was when he was really into an invention he was creating. He'd spend long nights working on it. But endless walking wore him out quickly and he whined for a rest. "What're you complaining about now?" Ceredwin scolded. "Nothing," he squeaked. "Just a bit tired." "Oh, be a man," she grumbled back. "Sorry," he winced. "I'm fresh out of that." "Keep up," she hissed. "You can't very well get your quarry to Akubar if the quarry is fatigued." "And the quarry can't very well walk without legs, can he?" she countered, waving the dagger. "Point taken," Matthias yipped, speeding up his pace. He then began tripping over Ceredwin's feet from being almost too close to her. "Get back! We'll fall!" A sudden noise startled Matthias, who jumped into Ceredwin. "Hey! Watch it!" she shouted, just before they both fell tumbling down a ditch. The ditch rolled them into some sort of cave, which happened to have yet another pit they fell through. They both landed with a thump. Ceredwin pushed Matthias off her. She looked around and grumbled. "Great. I can't see where we are. Nice going." She began feeling around for something when suddenly the cave was illuminated. She looked to Matthias who held a small stick with a flame at the end. "You have a tiny torch?!" She seemed upset and grabbed it away from him. "Give me that!" She looked at it curiously, realizing it wasn't a torch. The small wooden rod had a tiny flame at the end incased in a glass orb. The orb caused the flame's light to expand further than normal. It worked wonderfully. "Such a small flame. But how is it so bright?" "It's one of my older inventions," Matthias said proudly. "I haven't named it yet, but I usually just call it my flamer stick thing." Ceredwin peered queerly at Matthias. "I see." She stood up and walked around the cave. "Well, I don't see a way out. At least not from where we came. We'll have to find a new way." She shined the light on the ceiling, seeing it was made up of just various plants. It was apparently not a real cave, but merely an undergrowth of the forest floor. Therefore, there had to be an exit. She looked back to Matthias, who was still sitting where he had fallen. "Well, c'mon. let's move." He obeyed and followed her, the flamer stick thing lighting the way.[/size]

[size=1]Really, what Ozy just said is the truth of it. There's not really any system you can come up with to guarantee nonbiased votes, but the majority of those planning to vote are the more active members anyways. The more you've come to this community, the less chance you are to be so biased in regards to mods, looks, etc. To keep this contest from just being about mere looks, the question and interview system was created to represent personality as well. But this contest, though asking who's "Otakute," is more about personality than anything. The pictures aren't to show how attractive you are, but more how fun you can be with a camera and how artistic you can get. That's what it truely means to be Otakute. As Ozy said, mods don't always get all the glory and neither do the "more popular members." I, for one, will simply vote according to the rules. I cannot stop everyone from voting biased, but I've been here a long time and I believe we'll get the majority of the votes from people who participate fairly. I'm sure that probably doesn't make you feel better about it, but also remember--it's all for fun ;) This isn't American Idol.[/size]

Hah, thanks. I do miss making these. I'm thinking maybe I should publish the 100-something comics that got finished. Each page would have a comic and some commentary from the creators (Sean and me). And then maybe someday we'd continue to make them. Just maybe...

[QUOTE=Raiyuu][FONT=Trebuchet MS][b][color=red]Phaedrus,[/color][/b] if you want to take part please re-post with a picture that doesn't blow up the Boards like a balloon. DW, I'd like to suggest that as an addendum to the rules - pics that distort the tables on which the site is built should incur penalty points. Because, you know, surfers [i]hate[/i] to scroll sideways. I'll be in there judging, too. I don't have a camera either, so if I wanted to take part I'd have to rely on someone having taken an appropriate picture and posted it on Facebook some time in the past.[/FONT][/QUOTE] Yes, I don't even know why I never wrote down that rule. I planned to make sure that was a rule when the competition starts. I have also edited the first post with said rule. We're set :)

[QUOTE=Shy][size=1]Only members not posting their own pictures can vote for the winners, yah? With so many entries it seems like the judge pool is going to be quite small, since anyone even remotely interested in the idea probably posted their own pictures. I plan on being cruel and unflinching in my criticism of these OtaKuties (since most are anything but.) -Shy[/size][/QUOTE] That's an understandable concern, but I have confidence that since there's so much interest in competing, that the judging side will also have a substantial portion of interest. Did I just spell substantial right? It looks wrong to me. But anyways, yes, I'm already well aware of several people who plan to judge, so I think the turn out will be satisfying. Also, if someone doesn't post a pic in the round and gets disqualified (or for some other reason they are taken out of the competition), they may feel free to vote in the following rounds like anyone else. Charles and I have also discussed another part of this event that shall occur just before Round 1 begins. It'll be somewhat like a betting window you'd see at a horse race. That shall be further explained when the time comes :)

[center][img]http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/4087/epicrpguu6.jpg[/img] [img]http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/999/destinedyo1.jpg[/img][/center] [size=2]"Okay, Calvin, are you ready?" "Honestly, Flynn, I don't think it's going to work." "What makes you say that?" "Who would want to buy a chorse?" "Everyone. It's a horse and a chicken bred together!" "Sounds looney." "C'mon. It's a horse that lays eggs. And maybe it'll be able to fly!" "Chickens don't fly in the first place." "But a chorse might!" Calvin shook his head and walked away. Flynn stared puzzled at the chicken, who just clucked around the horse's legs, showing absolutely no interest in mating with the different species. "Wait up, Calvin!" Flynn ran to Calvin's side, who was now making his way through the village, squinting into the sun. "I think it's our turn to get water by the stream for the animal troughs." "What?" Flynn whimpered. "I thought we have to do that Thursday." Calvin stopped walking. "It is Thursday." "Really?" Flynn looked surprised. Calvin began walking again. "Already?" "You've slept a lot of the past few days," Calvin mumbled, making his way towards the town stables. "Yeah, but that sacred hike we had to go on the other day wore me out." "Flynn, putting on your clothes wears you out. Now give me a hand and take some of these buckets." Flynn walked over and began picking up pails when a tall, bearded man appeared behind them. He looked stern and upset. "Mr. Calvin and Mr. Flynn," he muttered. The two jumped around startled. "Elder," they said in unison. "Getting water, I see," the Elder spoke, peering down at the empty buckets in each of the two's hands. "Little late, isn't it? It's midafternoon and that should've been done before midmorning." "Sorry, Elder," Calvin said. "It won't happen again." "We had an emergency," Flynn added. "Emergency?" the Elder said, his attention turning to Flynn. "What, not enough rolls for your breakfast this morning?" Flynn gukped and lowered his head. "You boys are to do this duty again tomorrow instead of those scheduled." Flynn and Calvin made motions to speak, but the Elder interrupted. "And if it's not done before even the time I wake up, you'll be doing this duty every day for a year!" He snorted, then walked away to do other town duties. Flynn whimpered and Calvin stomped away, tossing his buckets to the ground. "Damn your stomach, Flynn!" "I'm sorry," Flynn pleaded. "I have a problem." "In your head," Calvin snapped. He then bent down and picked up the buckets. "C'mon. We have to go get that water before the Elder slaps us with more work." They then made their way towards the river near the village.[/size]