Chaos

[quote name='G.D. Ryoko']I don't think the death penalty is alright. I mean it's like the criminal is getting off easily. That they are not being punished enough.[/quote] Spoken like a true fool. Have you ever even visited a jail cell? I've spent a few nights in the blue cage for being out too late and got picked up for fighting at a party once, and that's not fun at all. Now, imagine you're on a maximum security block, twenty-three hour lockdown, with convicted murderers, rapists, arsonists, etc. They have even more demented people on death row, and they're not afraid of much since they're gonna die soon any way. The average time spent on death row before execution is over a decade. Not only do you know you're gonna die, but you also know what you're up against. Not a pretty lifestyle at all. [quote name='G.D. Ryoko']I think that criminals should just rot in jail for life for what they done.[/quote] Typical underage attitude. Lock 'em up and throw away the key. Seems like it would work. Too bad we as tax-paying citizens pay for their housing, upkeep, and general living establishments. And at the rate in which people are convicted, we'd be making more and more prisons than we already have. [quote name='G.D. Ryoko']Plus, I think that its inhumane and it isn't justified. I mean you exicute a guy because he committed capital murder but why isn't the person that put the guy to death not being killed? Are they not committing murder? The death penalty is just a silly[/quote] Because the people that do the sentancing are voicing the law. They just represent what your parents and forefathers voted on. Plus they didn't slit a throat or pull a trigger. They happen to be, for the most part, upstanding citizens working for the government. [quote name='G.D. Ryoko']Sorry for sounding immature but I'm only 16.[/quote] Don't worry about it. We were all at some time. Or will be. *waves dismissively*

No, the main mistake with the death penalty is that it takes an inmate ten years to get there, all the while taking tax-payer money to make the bastards comfortable. They should just put them in front of a firing squad and be done with it. We all gotta die sometime, right? Why not make it quick? -_-; Seriously, it costs like a hundred thousand dollars for upkeep of an inmate on death row. Forget that, man. Just pay .47 cents for a bullet in the head.

Hi, everyone, I'm here to make sure the other side of the fence is well-stocked with overzealous opinion. -- Suicide in any manner, form, or way is not only selfish, but cowardly as well. It's the escape mechanism of either a weakling or someone who doesn't see other alternatives to the matter. I think that all suicide can be included in this because there is ALWAYS something you can do, be it morally acceptable or not. Now, don't get me wrong, I feel for those that take their own lives. Don't doubt for a second I get a pang of sadness or guilt when I hear about someone killing themselves, especially if I knew the person. But that still does not change my opinion that it is a cowardly thing to do. So you've had trouble in your life. Okay. I'm sorry to hear it, but don't slit your wrists or blow your brains out over it. Take up something constructive. Take up something nonconstructive. Just don't stoop so low as to end life earlier than should be expected. I would rather an abused person go off on a rampage and kill the sick bastard that beat/raped/whathaveyou the abusee than have someone just end their life. At least there you take a nonproductive member of society out of the picture, and you might be able to get help afterwards. To SunfallE, I'm sorry to hear of your more-than-turbulant past. And I'm glad to hear you worked past it, at least to a point. But no, those that harmed you are not okay oe justified. But what would you ending your own life prove? That you gave up without trying to find help. I won't lecture you further, because you've probably gotten enough of that, but I just wanted to include this because I felt it was necessary.

[quote name='elfpirate][b]This one's easy--no contest--it's [u]Jester on Socom[/u'].[/b][/quote] I'm assuming you mean from SOCOM, and not SOCOM II, because in II, Jester rarely does anything. Even when the fire team is sighted, he doesn't make that much commotion, even with the "Fire At Will" command. Boomer, on the other hand... God almighty what idiot did they base his AI off of? I have the entire team on standby and hold position when I'm waiting on a target to present itself, right? It's almost a habit to do so, that's how often I manage. I usually have the silenced M4A1 carbine or the M82A1, so anyone that steps out into my sights is not going to be happy. So what does this fool of a team member do? STRAFES RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME WHEN I SHOOT! "Tango spotted, twelve o'clock high." "No, j00 f00l!" "AHHH, ARGH UHHH! *gurgle*" "..." [/rant] Honestly though, SOCOM and SOCOM II are great. III looks even better. Don't knock it because maybe your game is slightly flawed or something. If Jester's moving about try reinforcing the commands. Use the "Goto" with your sights to specifically pinpoint Bravo at one area. And always keep them on the Hold Fire command unless you get in some serious trouble [like all members have red health indicators].

*smiles* Sorry, no, nothing that obvious. Don't feel bad, no one I've showed it to so far has gotten it. I suppose I had best reveal it. Take the first letter of the first word of each paragraph, and put that with the last line. Tada. It's a bit of an ironic result on the writer's fault. I think it gives a bit of a dramatic touch, no?

A little idea that came to me a few nights ago while I read an old story I made about a man on the beaches of Normandy recollecting his life as he saw men die before him, and eventually come to face his own death. This is like that, in that it is the last letter from a man in France during World War I to his wife. He never got the reply. [spoiler]Kudos if you can figure out the hidden title. It is pretty obvious to me, but it might take you all some time to come up with it.[/spoiler] And yes, the text if supposed to be a little blury.

Wow, I won. ...Wow, I missed out that I won. "Well, good news! It's a suppository!" "*whimper*" Futurama reference.

[quote name='Mitch']I found Raiden annoying. I just wanted to play as Snake, yet for whatever reason we're forced to play as "Jack the Ripper." Too bad you couldn't make Raiden shoot himself in the game, that would have been quite an innovation. We should've just been able to play as Pilskin instead of Raiden.[/quote] I would have to agree. The whole whiny "Is my girlfriend real?" pussiness of Raiden just threw MGS2 down the toilet. The game would have been awesome if they had let us play as Snake all the way through, or do an alternative story mode as Pliskin/Snake. The relationship between Raiden and Solidus seemed like it was thrown together, and Kojima's attempt at ironic wit with the whole "U.S. soldiers called Japanese air planes 'Jacks'," and that such just did not fit. The story, also, would have been much more bearable if there wasn't the love triangle between Raiden, Rose, and Arsenal. Thankfully, we got our retribution in Snake Eater when you [spoiler]are given the chance to kill Raikov[/spoiler] in just about any manner you choose, if you don't mind a brief Caution mode. But that still doesn't fully make up for the hours I had to watch his girly-*** cartwheel instead of an awesome crashing roll, or hear his high-pitched and confused voice instead of a gutteral grunt in reply to just about anything. *shakes fist eastward at Japan*

"...Annie donned a pair of jeans and a white tank top; which was stained on the front with red. (--and you all thought she'd be nekked..tsk tsk)..." [size=1]Curses![/size] Eh. Boooo. Cliffhanger ending. Boo. Imaginative story, though. Can't really say much that hasn't already been said. Look, Bailo Fairy! *runs away*[/end Shiji reference] [spoiler]I still say there needs to be an adult version.[/spoiler]

...How dare you degrade Mardi Gras, Kane. I should slit your throat with a spoon. "A glimpse of sixteenth century London raves."

Arano continued to smile broadly, a clever front to those unwary enough to pick up on the subtleties. He had indeed laid the trap, and regardless of what Kane thought, his mind had already been made up for him. The Leading General was always regarded as a military genius, and what better way to express it than by applying his practice to his life? Inwardly, he sneered at Kane. True, he was a fitting warrior, a man worthy of his blood, but he obviously looked for the ends to the means of an unsolved problem. In Arano?s eyes, he could see the ideas forming in Kane?s head, doing whatever was necessary to expel his seed and further his heritage. He looked for an uncertain and vague future over a secure investment. The talk of Elites also reminded of Arano?s distaste for the haughty. He was born in the old age, where he was classified as a First Class, not enough to get him the best of life, but enough to sustain him. Granted, he progressed naturally, through time, with little aid and raw ability, and was now one of the figurehead warriors on Vegetasei, but he never had anything handed to him. He had surpassed his own father by the age of six, and from then on out, considered himself a man, no more, no less. By the time he was fifteen, the changes had been made to the social structure. It was at this time he was catapulted into the cream of the crop, but never really grew accustomed to it. Whether or not subordinates feared him, he did not account that to his rank, but instead of his strength. Being around others who were considered Elites, he saw their true nature, and how they weighed the lives of lesser classes against their own. Scores of men would fall just to live up to an aging Saiya-jin?s name, and the lesser crowds were considered rugs to walk over so that one?s boots would not become dirty. Arano had lived his life around the very people he was now categorically destined to abuse. He had seen how he they were treated just because of the rating of their ki. No man should ever be considered a weakling just because he does not possess the energy to blow up a planet, especially not a Saiya-jin. Arano picked up a scent of lust from Kane, albeit a faint one. He sought her for the simple purpose of mating and creating another thorn in society?s side, not that Arano could exactly blame him. It was, after all, instinct, but Karakkaze could not help but think that it was a tad shallow, even for an Elite. But, even for his hatred of such an act, he decided it would be best to use that to his advantage. Thus, he sat forward, arms over his knees, with a slightly more serious air about his body. ?Kane, if you?ll clear your head for a moment, I think we should discuss the terms of this contract a bit more thoroughly,? Arano said, his voice booming, as if he were addressing an entire audience. It could be said he was preparing for later on in the day. ?As you probably know, I have two half-brothers, and a cousin, all of which are fine warriors.? Arano stopped, smiling, and thought to himself: [I]"One a bit more than the others."[/I] He resumed, ?Burori and Turles are currently out of the Saiya-jin system, conquering and setting up a training and stationing base deep in outer space. The youngest of my family, however, Gaul, is still here. And he has found out about our newest threat.? And so, Arano began to explain the strife that loomed overhead.

The dead silence of the room was broken as Arano approached, his heavy footsteps melding to the polished hardwood floor. His half-brother had been dozing on one of the couches and cringed slightly at the warm beer that awaited his dry throat. Arano merely waited, his arms crossing over his chest in a rather clichéd stance of aggravation. Gaul opened his encrusted eyes, a shine coming over him as he stirred. For a good, long minute, neither of them said a word, and just listened to the faint tocks of the clock. After the silence grew to a deafening level, as anticipation often seems to do, Arano inhaled sharply. ?Gaul, I will give you the benefit of the doubt here and let you explain why you willingly escaped,? said the Leading General, slowly, both to make sure his words could not be misunderstood and to cut through the slight buzz he had gained over dinner. Gaul remained quiet, the only noise coming from the groan of the couch as he adjusted himself to sit upright. ?You know as well as I do, boy, that I would have talked to you before the night was done, if you had just waited,? Arano continued, taking a seat across from his half-brother. Gaul nodded gently, looking at the slight froth of his beer disappear as it settled. ?Evrada had me locked in a holding room, and I guess I just?? Gaul near whispered, remaining respectful. ?She did, hmm?? Arano said, eyes clouding in thought. ?I did not make mention of imprisoning you. Ah, well.? Arano shrugged once, his face clearing as he returned to matter at hand. ?I left it to her good judgment, and she did what she thought was best. Still doesn?t give you the excuse to knock out one of my guards and go through my personal log.? Gaul looked up briefly at his brother, before glancing back down to his drink and started to run his finger along the glass, wiping condensation off. ?I am a Saiya-jin, Arano, and if something big was happening, something that could endanger our species,? Gaul said, pausing every few words to make sure his vocabulary was carefully chosen. ?I think I should be let in on it, if only for my? Our,? he corrected himself. ?Heritage. We carry within us the blood of the Legendary Super Saiya-jin. We should be the first to find out such things.? Arano stared hard at his brother, noting the fire in his words, however calm he attempted at being. Gaul had obviously developed a complicated view of the world, one that should give him everything as soon as it happened, with no filters for either the good or the bad. Arano decided to drop that matter, and move on. ?You said you wanted to fight, child, but you do not even know the specifics of our enemies.? ?Such is a Saiya-jin?s destiny.? Arano nodded absentmindedly, quite taken aback at Gaul?s use of the Leading General?s own philosophy against him. ?If I were to send you into battle, this very moment, surrounded by strange fighters, outnumbering you impossibly, with no definite help anywhere around you, would you still want to go through with it?? Gaul stood slowly, turning to watch where the dancing flames once roared in the fireplace diminish to a mere flicker. He clenched up his fist, and spoke through gritted teeth. ?I was born for a reason, Arano. If it is to die in battle, then that is my fate. I have no choice but to accept that.? Arano rose from his seat, at a mild pace, and lowered his arms to his side. He faced the door, and dismissed the guards with a toss of his head. ?Very well then. When it comes to it, you will fight by my side, Gaul,? Karakkaze said, his voice now strict and devoid of affection. ?There will be an official announcement at ten in the morning, from the Defense Department headquarters. Make sure you?re up to watch. Go home now.? Arano looked over his shoulder to see his half-brother shyly turn to face him, Arano?s calmness taking out the last of Gaul?s determination. ?We will not speak of this to father.? Gaul dipped his head in brief acknowledgment, and watched his brother leave the anteroom. -- [b]Three minutes past one.[/b] Arano climbed into his bed, his clothing neatly laid out over the bed?s bench, ready for the morning. But for now, he would rest, and marshal his thoughts. Slipping under the covers, he gently brought his arm over Bianya?s stomach. She faced away from him, similarly nude, and curled slightly in anticipation of sleep that would not come. A moment later, she rolled over violently, and began sobbing as she buried her head into Arano?s chest, her hands wrapping tight around his barreled chest and nails digging into his skin. She wept loudly for some half an hour, Arano holding her in his arms without care of his masculinity; Bianya needed him, and he was not going to turn his back on her. After her wailing subsided, she continued to cry softly as she rested her head on his breastbone, unwilling to look him in the eyes as her dread consumed the room. ?Arano, you can?t,? she finally managed, after much stammering. ?Please, you can?t.? ?Bianya, I?? ?No, Arano, I won?t let you. You can?t leave me. Yesterday was just the beginning, I know it.? ?Bianya, listen. This is who I am. You know that. You have always known that. Every time I go on a mission, or I get into a fight, I become a different person. I become what every Saiya-jin covers in a layer of civility and sentience.? ?Arano, you can?t. This is too much.? ?I must. There is no stopping it. This is my purpose. I was placed in this world to fight, Bianya. I was placed in this world to conquer.? ?Please, no, no, NO!? Bianya shouted, over and over again, until her throat was hoarse and she finally stopped to catch her breath and sob once more. Arano pulled her up on him, bringing her face to nestle beside his own. She dug her claws into his back, in some defiant way of keeping him there. He did not waver, neither in pain or sorrow, but only brought his thick arms to wrap around her, binding them even closer. ?I promise I?ll come back. I promise I?ll protect you. I promise?? Bianya said nothing, only listened to his words and her own moaning. ??That when this is over, we will always be together.? After another hour in his arms, Bianya pulled away, and rolled over again, back to his side, but remained very close. Arano?s arms pulled her in tight in an embrace, his left arm under her smaller frame and his right over her side. Their hands joined, and Bianya sobbed no more. As she drifted off to sleep, she heard Arano?s voice one last time, before she passed out. ?I love you.? -- [b]Eight fifty-two.[/b] As Arano stood from his personal office?s chair he made his way around the dark, oaken desk, his standard battle armor in impeccable condition, and began to rattle off. ?So, this is Kane, eh?? he said, his powerful, commanding voice once again recovered from his gentler murmur that he reserved for the nights. ?I have heard many rumors. I can tell they do not do justice already.? Kane lowered his head slightly in reverence, a mild motion that maintained his arrogance but also acknowledged the compliment. He stood perfectly still as Arano paced circles around him, inspecting, calculating, reviewing. Kane had heard Arano was particular with those he did not know yet invited into his home, and he was somewhat glad he heard right. A man that is that picky has just reasons to be so. ?You are reported to have the highest success rate for the more?discreet missions we are hired for, am I correct?? Arano questioned as he came around to stare at Kane with a smirk on his face and his muscled arms crossed tightly over his armor. ?Of course I?m correct. That?s why I?m talking to you.? Kane?s right eye twitched as he heard this. Something about this comment struck him as odd, as almost as if Arano was pumping him up. ?What would you say if I were to offer you fifteen million in both gold and property if you were to undertake the hardest task of your life?? Kane?s attitude suddenly vaporized in the realization that Vegetasei?s most prominent non-royal military figure was trying to hire him. The repercussions rang through Kane?s mind as he tried to imagine what could possibly cause Arano to offer so much so that Arano would not face whatever chore it was. ?Hmm. Your hesitation makes me wonder if you are as brutish as I?ve heard,? Arano said with a laugh, enjoying the irony since he was known, too, for being particularly violent on conquests. ?Tell you what, Kane, enjoy breakfast with me. We?ll discuss the terms over some good food. How?s that sound? When was the last time you ate something that didn?t come in a packet?? And with that, Evrada entered, a guard ushering the door open.

Hmm. A plot against James you say? *eyes darken-- Ooh, scantily clad women. *stare* *shakes head violently* No, I don't think so. Retribution for James must be found. I will not stand for this degrading of his moral character. Revenge must be handed dow-- *oogle oogle oogle* *plot plot plot* *oogle oogle oogle* *plot plot plot* [spoiler]*ploogle?*[/spoiler] PS. Thank you for changing that background, Annie. As much as I love a good ocean beach, it gets a bit tedious to read that blue text over it. [spoiler]*ploogle indeed*[/spoiler]

Three projects right now, all are highly recommended if you have the time. First off is All Quiet On The Western Front by Erich Marie Remarque. I've read it many times before, and I love it. It's a classic war novel about World War I from the perspective of a young German man, for those of you unfamiliar with it. It spans from the middle to near the end, and it is a very in-depth look at the main character's mentality and how he has changed. Just a few pages into it is completely involving, and by the time you get to, say, the third chapter, it will have you very friendly with Paul, the narriating character. Secondly, and for the third time, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, by Luo Guanzhong. A Homeric novel about the fall of the Han dynasty and the events to restore peace afterwards. Very involved, and very artful. Though very biased towards Shu-Han and Liu Xuande, it is still a fantastic story, which has survived in basic form since around 200 A.D. China. Not for the light reader. The Crucible, by the recently late Arthur Miller, who died just last week. It was his critique of the McCarthy trials during the fifties, of which Miller himself was a victim of. He used the same degrading and public slandering that McCarthyism put forth in this story about seventeenth century Salem, during the witch trials. He heavily favors the hypocritical side of people and the selfishness that is often hidden from prying eyes. I really enjoy the in-depth look we get just by the characters' words, and how much the can express in just a few moments of emotion. Worth a look.

Arano's fury was instantly and widely noticed. He moved as if he were possessed, and crossed the distance of the room in a literal blur. Various cloth articles danced in his wake as he appeared before his half brother, the air wavering in a gentle distortion as his ki could be sharply detected. He picked up Gaul by the hair alone with his left hand, bringing him to eye level, the smaller teen resisting the urge to cringe in the pain that ran like lightning through his scalp. "What part of my orders did you not understand, child?" Arano bellowed, his voice ringing out into the entire homestead. He did not even give his half brother the chance to respond before he planted his right fist deep into his stomach. As the blow sunk in, Gaul curled into a ball, his hands clutching at his gut. Arano dropped him without a second thought. Gaul tucked his knees under his body and landed solidly. Though in pain, his eyes still held their ferocity and he slowly inched himself back to his feet. His arms lowered to his side, with his chin high and his arms at his side. Thus, he stood at attention, and looked his brother dead in his face. "Leading General Arano Karakkaze, I humbly request you allow me to aid you in your endeavor against our foes," Gaul said, in a quaky voice, as he dipped his knee and bowed his head in salute. Arano turned to the stocky Quartermaster that had originally found Gaul, Volga. "What the Hell happened?" Arano questioned with hard eyes and his voice stern. "He read your personal journal, Sir," was his response. Arano's eye twitched as he turned to look at the gathering, all of which were staring right back. He quickly glanced back to Volga, his face slightly warped in suppressed rage. "The book or the terminal?" Arano asked, sighing. "The book, Sir," Volga replied simply, looking down to the slightly quivering Gaul who returned to his stance prior to making his statement. Arano began to walk back to his seat at the head of the dinner table, speaking calmly and clearly as all the eyes in the room traced his movements. "Take him into the anteroom, and if he gets out again, your head will be payment for allowing him to escape." Volga crossed his right arm over his chest and dipped at the waist to bow swiftly, and ushered Gaul back to the original meeting room. -- After a moment of collecting himself, Arano looked back at Mannix, who had not moved much since the outburst. He cleared his throat and squared off his shoulders in a rather vain attempt to calm down. "Mannix, I applaud your ability to see the direct point, as always. But I have to say; I am shocked that you can make such an understatement of our race. Even the weakest of Saiya-jin warriors could easily destroy a hoard of these creatures on his or her own. While they are a swarm, yes, they are not unified in mind like Insettites you mentioned, or any of the other countless hive species in the universe. "They are all individuals, and can barely plot more than five minutes ahead of their raving hunger. From the data we have gathered, they use sheer numbers to overwhelm the targets. More humanoid creatures order the simple grunts, and they are significantly more intelligent. They will not throw millions upon millions of Takrei at our own army at once. A large gathering is a large target. We have reports of previous attacks they made in which they made tactical strikes as opposed to a rushed invasion. "And even if they did, we would have our full army in alert and stationed in position to intercept. While your point is notable, it is also flawed in that you were on a solitary conquest; here we can call in support of all kinds, including interplanetary back up. There is no need for concern. If we do this right, we will triumph." Arano paused to look at Ares, and over to Bardock and his two sons. "But we must rely on each other as brothers in arms. We must work together. All of the Departments must cooperate. Flawlessly, at that," he delayed again, casting a harsh glare at Ares once more. He glanced at the clock mounted on the wall, and saw that it read fifteen minutes until midnight. "Gentlemen, we have had an extensive evening. Tempers have spiked, and horrible burden has been unfurled. I suggest we retire for the night, and I will call for an official press gathering tomorrow at the Defense Department Headquarters. And I know most of you still must report to the Council Members and have other duties to attend to," Arano concluded, flicking his neck to Mannix in acknowledgment. And with that, Arano stood slowly, and the rest of the gathering followed suit.

[QUOTE=Baron Samedi][size=1] I think there should be a group of people elected to review every court-case and [b]throw out the dumb ones[/b].[/size][/QUOTE] There are. Court magistrates, anyone? That's what really worries me. That someone, who gets paid to decide on the fate of a trial based on it's valitidity, actually sent this case to an actual coutroom. I have to say, even if the girls shouldn't have been out that late, even if they shouldn't have been going door to door, even if this happened a thousand times, this is ******* stupid. There is no other way to explain it other than people are just retarded. What kind of idiot thief knocks on the damn door he's about to rob? What kind of disgruntled neighbor who wants retribution for some horrid deed in the past runs off the second he hears your voice? What kind of villainous fiend leaves COOKIES ON YOUR DOORSTEP WITH A HEART-SHAPED LETTER? And what kind of moron has a panic attack for several days over a basket of home-baked treats? Stupidest. *****. Ever. And what judge in his right mind would actually waste time, resources, and tax-payer money on something as enragingly foolish as this? He should have been thrown out of office for even considering this as a crime worthy of stepping foot in a courtroom. [/end_rant]

There was a quiet chuckle from most of the gathering at the boy?s arrival. Arano smiled, somewhat embarrassed that his half-brother would choose now to snoop around in his home, but also somewhat expected it. He put down the large rib bone he had been modestly gnawing on while simultaneously telling a story from one of his conquests to the ten nearest Saiya-jins and wiped his hands and mouth with the uniform ruby-colored cloth napkins that dotted the table. He leaned forward, his elbows resting on the tabletop and stared directly at Gaul, half-mad and half in hysterics. ?Gaul, why do you choose tonight, of all nights, to come breaking into my home?? Arano asked, a stern tone in his voice and a slight smile on his face. ?Well I needed to talk to you, brother,? Gaul said, nervous and still in the grip of the patrolman that kept watch over Arano?s estate, one of dozens of personally-trained Saiya-jins with ire for rule-breaking. ?Oh, is that so,? Arano said wryly, his eyes narrowing as his become more annoyed than bemused. ?About what?? ?Um,? Gaul stammered, but could make no real progress. ?Lighten up, Arano,? Bianya said, giving him that emphasizing eye that most females give whenever they want to stress their point. She turned to look over her shoulder and glanced from the boy to the guard. She said, ?Let go of the poor child, you?re scaring him half to death.? The guard obeyed, and slightly jumped as Arano slammed his fist down on the top of the table, causing all of the plates and glasses to jump significantly in the air. It was at this time that the conversations died down, and all eyes were on Arano, with the exception of Orin who cursed once, and reached for the servant making her rounds to refill his spilled mug of beer. Arano glared hard at the guard, breathing a notch higher than he was a moment ago. ?Just who exactly keeps you well fed and sheltered, Kurna?? the Leading General. ?I don?t see this woman here paying for your physical upkeep, now do I?? The guard was now shaking, not so much as to be having a spasm, but enough to be jittery. ?Now, now, Arano,? Bianya coyly said, daintily forking a small square of steak and bringing it up to her mouth. Before she chewed it briefly and swallowed, she continued with ?Behave, or otherwise you?ll be sleeping on the couch tonight.? The entire gathering of guests roared into sudden laughter as the tension lifted in the room, and Arano himself could not help but guffaw at the plainly-said comment. As the boisterous noise calmed, he turned back to Gaul, still chuckling slightly. ?Very well, Gaul,? he said, a broad grin plastered on his lips. ?I?ll speak with you later tonight. But I am very busy right now, being the butt of one too many good jokes.? He looked to his right, and looked Evrada right in the eyes. ?Make sure he is well-taken care of. Send him elsewhere in the homestead with someone trustworthy enough to make sure he doesn?t wreck havoc,? he said, seriously, but with a twinkle in his eyes. ?After all, he is my brother.? ? After a few more minutes of eating, the table was cleared of the piles of plates and discarded bones, but there were ample drinks left. The congregation now all turned to look to Arano as he sat upright in his chair. He pressed a button on a remote control panel near the corner of the table?s edge, and small plasma screen monitors rotated into place, originally under the table?s top. Six monitors were unused, as the table accommodated for thirty persons. A slide show began, showing various energy readings and space/time graphs. ?Gentlemen, most of you are no doubt very eager to understand what exactly is going on, and why our military is on maximum alert. Why we?ve been scanning with the deep-space sensors more often.? Arano paused, nodded once at Mannix, who did similarly. ?Why we?re being attacked by an unseen force.? There was a slight murmur from the gathering. ?Why there has been a major marshalling of our armies.? On the screens, a very primal animal appeared, and it showed a small, six-legged herbivore that looked much like a common white tail deer getting ripped to shreds by this tan beast. ?They are called the Takrei. A swarm of insect-like monsters. They go planet to planet, feeding on the natural habitats and absorbing the nutrients from the soil, leaving behind a withered husk. They are lotuses with the ability to regenerate limbs. They are rats with the ability to fight like a humanoid. They are viruses that can use energy freely like you or me.? Arano looked around the room, from face to face, slowly. ?They are creatures, bent on destruction, headed here.? The sudden uproar of bewildered yells seemed harsh in contrast to Arano?s quiet, refined tone. He called for silence once, not quite shouting but making sure he could be heard. ?They will arrive here in...? He paused, looking at the wall clock, which read seven minutes after nine. ?Four days, fifteen hours, and fifty-three minutes.? This time, the crowd did not whisper a word. Orin crossed his arms as he leaned back in his chair. Mannix stared hard at the video of the creature decimating the fawn, replaying the video over and over again. ?They have hundreds of millions of these beasts. They all have the power level of, on average, two thousand. They are roughly twice as intelligent as a Saibaman, and can stand erect to fight in hand-to-hand combat, but they are limited in the arts. A child past the age of ten could easily defeat one if he had the same power level. ?The can use ki freely, as I said before, instinctually, so don?t be expecting some form of charged or refined energy blast. They can regenerate lost limbs, cuts, gashes, holes, and burns fairly easily. The only real way to kill them are to either bleed them or sever the nervous system. The brain is the deciding factor, or so we can best tell, that forces their regenerative powers. ?They are extremely tough. They can handle vast, polar opposite temperature changes. They can survive the vacuum of space, the heat of reentering a planet?s atmosphere at full flight velocity. Their bones are about as strong as carbonized steel.? Arano sighed, long and fully, and looked at Bianya, who stared at the screen uncomprehending the horror she saw when the slide changed to show the energy scan of the swarm. It covered the same area as a star did. He took her hand, slowly caressing her fingers with his thumb. She just continued to stare. ?This is why I have called for our forces to be pushed so hard in the last two months. This is why training has been so harsh. Only the strong must fight, and the weak will just take up rations and medical resources. As damnable as it is to say, the means will justify the end in this case.? He looked up from his mistress? face, and prepared himself for the onslaught of questions.

A faint smile came to my face when you replied. Actually, in both the manga and anime it is explained that females cannot transform to any degree of Super Saiya-jin. No, a name's a name. The Romanji literally comes out "Baadakku," so you're, again, wrong. I never said power levels never existed, I said that none were ever stated after Trunks arrived and hacked Furiza apart. In either case, the movies were made and produced by Toei, so Akira Toriyama wouldn't really have control over Burori's power level. In fact, Toei producers themselves said Burori's power level was less than that of a USSJ2, but they contridict themselves in movie 10 when Gohan says Burori is just as strong as he was, but Gohan was more than twice as strong as he was before transforming to Super Saiya-jin 2. Movie 13 was the Hildegarn, or, "Super Explosive Dragonfist! If Gokou can't do it, nobody can!!", 12 was the appearance of Gojita, "Rebirth of the Fusion! Gokou and Vejita!!". And the fact of the matter remains that Burori didn't die, since we did not see him in Hell, but we saw all of the other evil spirits roaming free on Earth. Burori was supposedly killed in 10, "Dangerous Partners! Super Warriors Never Rest!!", and we did not see him in 12. Thus, he did not die. The Kanji spells out in Romanji as "Saiya-jin." You fail. Do not post in this topic again, or I can promise you it will be the last time. If you want to continue to push your incorrect views, do so in a PM. Either way, I am, if for the only time in our argument, asking you nicely to please not post in this topic again. That's as simple as I can put it. PS. I did not use a single curse word in my post dealing with you, so how did I "curse" you "out for" your "indifferences?" If my country is so hated, then why does your country and just about every other country look to us for help in a crisis? Please, just stop while you're ahead. And practice what you preach, as well. Keep YOUR mouth and SHOW some respect. If you want to yell at me, do it all you like, but not here. As for everyone else, I apologize for taking up this space. I'll continue on the story later on, maybe tonight if I get the chance.

Hushed voices mingled as jumbled conversations wandered the air. Within the estate's parlor, taking up a good portion of the second floor, a collection of some of the most important men in power awaited. Those most noted among the gathering were apart from the larger groups; Vegita and Mannix stood close enough to be seen together, but not necessarily literally so; Bardock, Orin, and Raditz held a conversation within their loose triangle, each holding a stem glass of wine, keeping with the image of orderly appearance. In detail, the parlor was large, the ceiling some fifteen feet high, with luxurious black leather couches and easy chairs dotted around the perimeter of the thirty by fifty room. There were extensively stocked bars on the north and south walls. Seven servants walked silently around, will full, platinum platters of either appetizers or pure crystal stem glasses of various liquor. The hardwood floor was covered by an extensive and exquisite rug that came within ten feet to all of the walls; it was an oval shaped, handwoven masterpiece. On the west wall, there was a fireplace large enough to roast a bear within, and it roared with vigor. There was a total of twenty-four men in the room, mostly high officials in the National Army and Defense Department. The actual War and Defense Council members themselves were not present, as they were busy with duties to ensure the progress of the preparations for invasion. Vegita was the only noble present, and he wore the customary armor; long, flowing crimson cape with an Elite's armor bearing the Royal Emblem on the left pectoral cover. The members of the National Army were distinguished by their First Class status armor, no markings, and a navy blue shawl over the left shoulder. The Defense Department officials were similarly dressed, but with black shawls over their right shoulders. Over the fireplace's mantle, a lush oaken clock chimed six times, a soft gong akin to a grandfather clock. Upon the last ring, the French double doors leading to the dining hall opened to reveal Arano with Bianya at his side. He wore his traditional armor, with the battle flag shawl of the Defense Department over his right shoulder, but with blood red tribal scrolls imprinted as opposed to the solid black. His scouter was nowhere to be seen. Bianya was radically different than what her work outfit portrayed her as. She wore a tight-formed spaghetti strap dress, a brilliant sky blue, with a side-split up the left leg. Her hair was tied back in a much more refined way than her teased, feathered look. Her ears were adorned by dangling sapphires, two gems, the free-hanging portion larger than the stud and suspended by a diamond-cased gold chain. Around her neck was a heavenly necklace of large diamonds and jades, in a web pattern that almost covered her shoulders. "Gentlemen, good evening. I hope you are all well, considering the circumstances." Arano looked around the room all eyes pointed decidedly at him and listen to the few that answered respectfully. "Well, as you can plainly see, I am doing fine, so whatever rumors you may have heard, forget them," he said with a warm smile that seemed foreign. "I am here to tell the truth about the past night's incident. I welcome you all to my estate, and hope you will enjoy the dinner. I have been told it will be something to tell tales about by my staff. So, if you all would kindly follow me, you will find reserved seats for the each of you." As he walked to the far end of the huge banquet table, he sat himself at the far crest, after easing Bianya to the seat to his left. --- Just so we're clear, the shawls are to be thought of Raziel's before Kain tossed himinto the Abyss, not some fruity scarf. If you've never played the Soul Reaver series, do a Google image search for "Raziel" and you should be set.

[QUOTE=maki_hitokiri]Well, I was wondering if it is not to late to join the party, of course a bio would be helpful please look over it and tell me what you think. The only problem that may occur is that Burdock( Japanese name setting) was killed shortly after Frieza's attack along with King Vegeta and Prince Vegeta was on another planet doing grunt work..However seeing that this is probally alternate from the orginal works I will have my own created character somewhat adjecent to the orginal. Name- Ryoko Gender- Female Relation- One of the kings royal guards, Ryoko was the older and far more elite of her brother Broli. However after reaching an amazing potential Ryoko was cast aside rather than killed for her help in assisting the King and Prince. Landing on Planet Yarjdrad ( Where Goku learned Instant Transmission) Ryoko took over awaiting the call to be at her beloved Prince's side when he needed her. Power level- Ryoko has a standerd Sayi-jinn power level at starting, however she can reach to that of 120,000,000,000 like that of her brother. Fullest reached form- Ryoko has reached the form of True Super Sayi-jinn level two surpassing her Brother and those around her. Special Moves- Hikari So Nan ( Light Of death) A standered Ki attack to that of the Galic Gun Hitokiri sho ten- (Dark Assassin Wave)- A more heavy ki attack consisting of two large Tiger heads forming of energy at the tip of each palm and then cascading down onto the opponet like a Spirt Bomb Fininshing Move- Bi Hiten Ryu sho ton-(Onyx Heaven Dragon from Darkness)- Quite like the big bang of Final Flash this move is alomost life consuming, It takes an opponets anger as well as her own, and combines it with energy of hate and despair and sends it forth upon the opponet with her whole body acting as the conduit for i\the move itself enabling Ryoko to attack with agility strength and power Appearence- Ryoko is 5'6 with short spiky hair that is tinted brown almost like Vegeta's, She has violet eyes that look almost black, Two scars are quite visiable one on her left cheek like a cross, this was given to her by Prince Vegeta in a formal battle of wits and power. On her left arms are another pair of scars quite like an x as well which also were given to her by Vegeta. Her outfit is a tight black body suit except for the sayin shoes and the scouter which she wears at her waste broken by the velocity of her might. Around her neck is a single chain that was given to her by the royal family showing her rank and her power.[/QUOTE] *clears throat* Does the term 'logic' mean anything to you? If you had taken more than five seconds to be familiar with the system of RPGs, you would have looked in the Adventure Inn for the sign-up thread before even formulating that poor sheet. Then you would also find that I had requested that people post their applications there, and then, if I felt they had put forth enough effort, I would allow them to join my workings. If you had made it that far on your own, you would then understand that RPGs have limits, boundaries, and that you pretty much destroyed the ones implimented here. Yes, this is an alternate universe of the Dragonball/Z manga. No, you are not welcome. You have wasted not only my time, but yours as well. There were no power levels stated after Trunks' appearance on Earth. Akira Toriyama felt they limited his ability to let the fights flow. And if Burori, or Brol[b]l[/b]i, can be defeated [read, defeated, not killed], by three Super Saiya-jins [again, read, [b]Saiya-jins[/b], not Sayi-jinns or Sayin], I don't think he has a power level of one hundred twenty billion. Not to mention females can't go Super Saiya-jin at all, not even to speak of the "true" Super Saiya-jin Two level. How did your character suddenly surpass the Legendary Super Saiya-jin with no real fights? Oh, and just so you know, Bardock's Japanese name is "Baadakku." Please, do not post again within anything I create. That last message of yours was a mockery of any form of intelligent writing.

In the dark, early hours of the new day, the residence that easily took up a standard city block on the outskirts of Varnga and overlooked a dense forest complete with a small waterfall running into a manmade river. Nary a light was on, and all was quiet. On the third floor, the main rooming floor, a figure could be seen within, shuffling back and forth, making with precise, practiced movements of somewhat ritual acts. Arano moved in complete silence, dressing himself like he always did. He already had his combat pants and boots on, and he was not tightening his grip within his left gauntlet when the one spot outside his door creaked. He had asked specifically for that when the floorboards were laid, so that he would always have some form of notice if someone were creeping about. But today was no exception to the norm; he hurried over, though, and opened the swinging door easily. There stood Evrada, still as ever, but in a manner, like always, that seemed lithe. She carried an elegant tray, platinum and silver carvings depicting a scene of battle, with various foods arranged neatly and orderly on crystal plates. A large steak, scrambled bird's eggs, milk of an alien version of a cow, assorted fruits... Arano took a step back, not beckoning her to enter but not dismissing her right away. Instead, he talked, while still getting dressed in his standard armor. "I don't have time for breakfast today, Evrada," he said quietly, glancing at his large four-post canopy bed briefly before affixing his right gauntlet. "Why don't you have it? You took the time to cook it, so why not enjoy it for once?" She said nothing in response, only looked at him through the gray morning. He had several large cuts going down his back, and many burns along his arms and shoulders. The backs of Arano?s hands were scraped raw from when he had to push debris from over himself and Bianya. There was also a noticeable gash along the ridge of the right side of his jaw. Yet he moved and acted like there was nothing to complain about. Just more scars with more stories to explain them. "Also, I'd like for you to look after Bianya. I don't expect her to be wandering around much, but if you could just help her out if she needs it that would be a big help," he said, quietly, remaining a respectful tone, regardless that he did not need to ask his handmaiden to fulfill a request. "But don't spoil her or anything. I'll leave it to your good judgment." As he finished slipping his armor over his chest, and attached the waist guards to the bottom ridge, he turned to walk around to the far side of his bed. "That will be all, Evrada. I am needed in the city." She bowed her head slightly, and disappeared as silently as she arrived, closing the door in her wake. Arano looked at his mate as she slept, and could not help but smile and notice that she barely had but a few scratches all over. Arano had focused most of the energy of his shield directly over himself, and when the blast exploded, he scooped up Bianya in his arms to act as a barrier. Still, the shockwave from the explosion took a lot out of her. He raised the silken covers to above her shoulders, and she mumbled something while lost in a dream. With a serious manner about him down, he opened the doorway, a thin door with a frosted glass pane, to the balcony and took off into the air, a blazing red aura forming over his body and leaving a comparatively sparse trail as he headed for Varnga. -- [center][b]Six hours after initial explosion.[/b][/center] Wretched ruins reached up with burnt steel fingers into the morning air, begging for one last glimpse of the suns, the previous glory of seedy urban life vanished to a mere memory. Craggy cement littered the dipped crater, twisted metal scattered like leaves in the wind, and bodies were unceremoniously buried under heaps of slag. The cries and moans of the living served as a siren to their presence; though most were far too gone to do anything but wither. Fires still raged, sending thick black smoke into the heavens. The destruction encompassed ten miles, the shockwave going five times further than the actual dome of pure, uncontrolled energy that vaporized most resistance on contact. The power supply had been cut to the downtown sector of Varnga, to prevent any mass shortages in the areas whose stability was not confirmed. Bare wires hung in the air, subject to any passing object or the wind. Underground cables were fried, and many household appliances and networked systems went with them inside the affected area. "Goddammit." Arano sighed as he tromped along the edge of the crater, looking at the devastation that encircled him. A line of city officials followed him be some paces, with their own hoards of lackeys relaying and blasting off with information about certain disruptions. One, however, seemed above the rest, walking past at a rate not uncommon for one who busied himself with his own work. The crowd parted for him, his facial expression enough to make most warriors flinch. It was Mannix, making good on his word about visiting the site personally. Arano turned, hearing the change in steps behind him, and allowed a small smirk to come onto his face. "Mannix, my good man, how are you on this fucking lovely day?" Arano asked, flashing a very fake smile that did not belie his fury. "Arano," was the only response he got. The Leading General turned to continue his walk, and Mannix seemed to instantly be along side him, arms behind his back, in an almost stately manner. "To what honor do I owe this conversation, Mannix? Surely, it can't be because I didn't invite you out for a beer last night?" Arano muttered, not bothering to make with the formalities. "I came to supervise the replacement and repair of several deep space scanners, and to talk with you as well," Mannix replied, calmly laying out the bait. "To me? What could you possibly want with me, of all people?" was the obviously false coy retort. "I understand you must be enraged right now, Arano, but do not make this difficult," Mannix warned, eyes darkening with limited patience. "I want certain answers, and you can tell me." "Like what?" Arano snapped. "Like what did this. Like what's forcing me to be out here at this time in the morning. Like what killed thousands of Saiya-jins at approximately nine past midnight," Mannix growled, his voice growing in intensity as he continued. Arano just sighed. He stopped soon after, causing everyone behind him to as well, as to not impose on the obviously ill tempered Leading General. He stared outward over the destruction, shaking his head slowly and clenching his fists to the point his gauntlets creaking in protest. He gently relaxed his squeeze, and turned back to Mannix, a calmer air overcoming him. He looked down at his fellow Saiya-jin, being almost a foot taller. "There will be a meeting at my personal residence tonight, at six. Others will be invited. Call it a press conference if you wish. I will answer any questions you have then. But for right now, I have to check in with the Defense Department." Arano extended his right hand towards Mannix, who repeated the gesture. They shook once, a casual salute if anything, before Arano slowly ascended into the air. After gaining a bit of altitude, he shuttled off into the sky above.

Steady footsteps tramped through the spacious hallway, coming to a stop before the large, polished doors. A simple tap served for a knock, and the gold, diamond-encrusted handle lurched in its wide arc. The slab pushed inward, and exposed the enormous room to the visitor. The Prince glanced slowly from his small computer terminal, a decidedly apathetic look crossing his face. His studies always seemed to be interrupted just when he got fully immersed in his work. But, however, this time was worth the disruption. Arano stepped into Prince Vegita?s personal office, leaving the posted guard outside to close the door behind him. He walked with a casual swagger; a man on task has no time for gloating. Vegita stood slowly, and walked with the same type of steady pace to the small mini-bar he kept fully stocked along the far side of the room. ?Ah, Arano, glad to see you are as punctual as ever.? ?My Prince,? was the only thing Arano said, nodding his head in a somewhat formal-yet-familiar bow. Vegita poured a solid brown liquid into a small drinking glass, with two chunks of ice clattering about as the drink swished around. He then made another, with the exact same results, a practiced effort among men. He handed Arano his glass, then took his own, and made way back to his chair, offering Arano the one in front of his desk. ?So, my good man, what can I do for you?? asked the Prince after a swallow of liqueur left a slight tingle in the back of his throat. ?I have come on business, I am afraid, Prince Vegita,? Arano said, twirling his glass within his left hand, staring hard at the ice as the cubes gently clinked against the sides. ?I got a report yesterday that my half-brother was to be sent on a conquest mission. To a planet far beyond the normal stomping grounds.? ?Yes, Burori had sent in a request to capture Yanoliak as a training and housing base,? said Vegita. ?I obliged him.? ?Hmm,? was the grunted response. Prince Vegita placed his glass on a small, marble coaster on his desk, and leaned forward to the point where he sat erect and his hands rested on the edge of his keyboard. ?What? Do you not agree with that?? Vegita asked, a hint of aggravation in his voice. ?Honestly, my Prince?? Arano said after a moment, still rotating his drink. ?Yes. Yes, I do disagree. Have you not read my report?? Vegita stood quickly, but calmly. He paced from behind his desk to look out the large window that overlooked the skyline of the Saiya-jin capitol city, Varnga. His arms crossed, in that trademark stance, and he focused at the now-common civil life below. ?I received your report a few days ago, Arano, the same day I approved your requests for wartime priority command,? Prince Vegita said quietly. ?I fully understand the threat above us. We do not need that magnitude of assistance for such a task. We survived Furiza?s presence?? Vegita looked over his shoulder, smirking slightly at Arano. ?With gracious help from dedicated Saiya-jins.? His head turned back into the tinted pane before him, the harsh noon sunlight not bothering him slightly. ?And we will surely survive this.? Vegita turned back from the window and sat back in his office chair, already focusing back on his management of the civil budget. ?It was good to see you again, Arano. We haven?t really had the chance to catch up lately, and, unfortunately, we are both very busy right now.? Arano nodded, sucking on his cheek for a split second before gulping his drink. He stood up, placed the glass on a similar coaster as before, the two ice blocks protesting against the friction with the round instrument with a few clicks. He turned towards the door, walking just as he did before. He did, however, stop short. ?Six days, Sire. Six days. They chanced the gravitational pull of the Gemti?s star. They want us badly enough to forfeit twenty-two percent of their numbers.? Vegita looked up to see Arano continue walking, and quietly slip through the door. He leaned back in his chair, tented his fingers in front of his face, and sighed. -- The neon-green sign above the small, concrete building shone brightly in the dead of night. In the light smog, it cast odd and oblong shadows against the other structures nearby, vibrating with every flicker of the electrons that ran through the tubes. The dulled music, a slow, steady pounding of synthesized drums, seeped into the cool air each time the door opened to make way for a laughing warrior or drunken fool. Inside the large room was simplistic in the respect that it followed the general consensus of every bar ever. The main bar was chest high, with mounted stools and a foot rail. Beyond that, towards the door, were circular tables, enough to fit three or four people on small metal chairs that scraped the floor with every movement of the seated. It was dark, with toned-down lights and hazy smoke to buffer the rays for the hung-over. The speaker system was nothing booming, but was enough to be heard over conversations. To the left, about fifteen feet away, there was a primitive and quasi-alien pool table, with different patterns making up similarities between solid and stripe. Some were mesh, some torn, some flame designed, but the basics of the game remained. At the far end of the bar, though, he sat, not drinking, but a frothy beer waiting to be downed in a single gulp. He hunched over, his tail actively swinging to the beat of the music, but otherwise, he was completely preoccupied by his dilemma and that was obvious. ?What did that mug ever do to you?? Arano looked up sharply, unsure of just exactly who addressed him. He was greeted to a familiar face, one he had seen in many situations, often at night and with vivid shadows to cover a cringe of a mixture of pain and pleasure. She stood only three inches over five feet, and was thinly muscled to the point where she was vastly underestimated in terms of strength. With full curves and an exotic scent, she was dressed in a simple outfit consisting of a light blue shirt that fit tightly against her well-formed torso, and black combat pants. She wore no scouter, no gloves or gauntlets, and simple boots, more akin to shoes than anything combat worthy. Most noticeably of all was her hair. The length of it came to her shoulder blades, but the top was flung back in dainty spikes. It was also striped, much like a tiger?s coat, but black and honeydew blond as opposed to orange or white. Her tail wagged playfully behind her, but it was the common brown, not following the radical change of pace as her mane. Her name was Bianya, and she was known as Arano?s mistress. ?What?? Bianya chuckled, ?Are you deaf now, Arano? I said, ?What did that mug ever do to you??? Arano merely looked in a questioning manner, as if she was speaking in prose. ?You were staring at it hard enough to break it, Pet.? Arano?s eyes darkened slightly at the nickname he loathed and refused to acknowledge his self by. ?I?ve got a lot on my mind right now,? he simply said, resuming his glare at his drink. ?No kidding?? Arano looked up again, his hard stare softening slightly at Bianya?s playful smile. She took one of his hands, which was limply resting against the countertop and began kissing his open palm softly. ?Listen, I?m off in an hour and a half. Right now I gotta make some more rounds,? she said, looking over his shoulder at one of the groups of battle worn Saiya-jins calling for more beers. ?But just wait a little, and we?ll?discuss?this further.? She winked, and let go of his hand. He pulled it back slowly from its suspended position and brought it back to its original spot. He hardly noticed her and other barmaids running about, laughing, cheering, and breaking up the occasion scuffle. He continued to delve into his mind, thinking more and more of the current threat just over his head. He did not notice the lights go off, he did not notice the music die out, and he did not notice his woman sigh as she rested on the stool next to him. He did not notice her calling his name several time. He did, however, notice her tail, which suddenly seemed to appear, as it slowly slithered up the inside of his thigh, going back and forth in a very slow and light manner. He shook his head strongly, almost violently, coming out of his daze to find Bianya nibbling on his left ear. ?Not right now, girl.? Bianya stopped, pulled back slightly to look at the side of his face, and for the first time, saw the worry in his eyes. Furthermore, he addressed her by the common reference he gave when she was out of earshot, so he was certainly serious. ?Oh, hey now, Arano,? she whispered, starting to get a little anxious herself. ?What is it?? He halfway chuckled once, more of a body spasm than a laugh, if even that much. ?I wish I could tell you. But, like more than most of the shit I tell you, it?s classified.? ?Well, if it?s like all the rest,? she said, coming closer, sliding her hand along the width of his chest. ?Then why can?t you just tell me?? He turned, a sad, almost sympathetic look in his eyes, and smiled gently. ?This one?s straight from the top,? he said, an almost happy tone in his voice. ?No bullshittin around with this one.? Arano stood up, and took Bianya?s hand in his own, the hard gauntlet clicking against various bracelets and her nails. ?Ready to go?? he said, in a much cheerier voice that was obviously forced. ?Yeah, finished all the cleaning and booking,? she replied, playing along. They exited the building, and stepped out into harsh, golden light. Arano looked up, issued a mighty ?Holy shit?, and threw Bianya on the ground, standing over her with his arms spread wide? -- ?It appears as if the energy tide came from deep within outer space, from a previously undetected source. Officials say that the blast was a tactical strike to test the effectiveness of a large offensive against Vegetasei. Most of Varnga?s Red Light district is without power, and there is a large crater two miles wide in the center. We also received a report that Leading General Arano Karakkaze, the famous war hero of many deeds including the Resistance of Furiza, blunted the attack with a ki shield. We are told he was in fair condition and at his personal residence with no serious injuries.? -- ?I can?t believe we didn?t pick up on it before,? Bardock said, at his mansion just outside of the capitol city, overlooking his vast hunting fields. ?That?s the problem,? Orin said, cross-armed and staring at the screen displaying the damage reports on the news. ?The scans at the National Army Headquarters were running, and fully.? Bardock turned swiftly to his oldest son, a harsh look in his eyes. ?You mean to tell me someone conjured enough energy and launched it quickly enough to not only get past our deep-space sensors but to also break through a shield Arano himself put up?? Orin only nodded. ?Had to have. We would have detected it. For that much energy to be amassed, we could have gathered information on it from hundreds of thousands of miles away. This was either done faster than we can fire off a random energy wave, or gathered very slowly.? ?Okay, let?s assume it was gathered slowly, Orin,? Bardock said, now pacing in front of the sliding glass door that lead to the open air garden. ?Where was it stored? How did they gather it? How did they launch it so fast?? ?I don?t know,? Orin said, shaking his head. ?But the fact of the matter remains, it was done with almost no charge time.? ??Jesus.? --- Well, there we go. The public at least now has some inkling of the danger at hand, but no specifics. I did this to give some of you who were not exactly resting at the head of a military committee could have something to base your next few actions on. Enjoy.

The first Barbershop you can access has a fairly normal 'fro. It's the one where in the beginning Ryder and CJ go to Cluckin Bell and Ryder tries to hold up the place. I know because that's what I keep on CJ. 'Fro, 100% muscle, no shirt, tatted out, and urban camo. Menace II Society, boi. *West Side*

Evaluation time. [b]Burori:[/b] A pretty bland sign-up, considering how long you knew this was coming and how many versions of the rough draft I showed you. You're in, but I'm going to keep an eye on you. [i]Accepted[/i] [b]Rai:[/b] Another halfbreed, eh? Can't say I didn't expect it. Like the old days, almost. I liked the sign-up, a bit of a change from the usual "girl power!" type, but we all know what it will turn out to be. Heh. Just try to keep up with the power level stat, okay? [i]Accepted[/i] [b]Venge:[/b] Well. What can I say? I got the feeling that you skipped most of the story and just zoomed on down to the sign-up sheet. The lack of detail and effort you put into your post somewhat offends me, since that specifically defies what I asked for at the footer of my original post. Also, the lack of attention to your numerous spelling errors makes me question the integrity of your role-playing. First off of the bat, it's 'Bardock' and 'javelin'. Secondly, I don't think any warrior could just join an elite squad. In fact, in this universe, a logical one, they can't. Either the military would seek them out individually, or they would have to try out for some sort of position. Also, using a direct image of Bardock and saying that he has shorter hair and a different color for his eyes seems very childish. Sure, not all of us are artists, but you could at least explain various changes in body structure and whatnot in an articulate manner. You did not make the cut, I'm afraid. [i]Rejected[/i] [b]Craig:[/b] You're in. I know you understand the backstory and current setting enough to do this blindfolded. But don't type when you're drunk, all right? -_- [i]Accepted[/i] [b]Skye:[/b] To be honest, I would have appreciated a deeper History, but I know you can bounce back from that. I'll give you the chance to go a little more in detail ICly, provided you don't post up 10,000 word messages. [i]Accepted[/i] [b]Piro:[/b] From what I've seen and we've talked about in our PMs, you're solid gold for this. No real problems, except for that you still don't have your history up. I want you to repost your entire sign-up sheet including your Biography in your first post in the play thread. [i]Accepted[/i] [b]Kane:[/b] You're damn right it's intriguing. Took me long enough to work it out. Anyway, your sign-up is all right, but I hope you plan to explain what made your character revert to his former self at one point in the context of the RPG. Oh, and if you think you're going to steal Arano's position, you're dead meat. ^_~ [i]Accepted[/i] Well, that's that. Applications are still welcomed, and I will evaluate them like I did for these first ones. Look for the actual play thread tomorrow, around two o'clock Central time.

Charles, look back on what you called unique. You rattled off platformers that changed so-and-so with the features and the method of getting the _____ item/goal. That, and revamped survival-horror and action games. You mentioning Paper Mario alone would be sufficient to at least agree with my problem with the GameCube. Twin Snakes. Resident Evil [you can have just about any game from the originals since Capcom had the wonderful idea to port]. Zelda. Even the famed Ninja Gaiden. That is not to say that the other systems don't have remakes and whatnot, but it's just that that's all I basically see on GameCube. Maybe I don't look hard enough, but that's what sticks out to me. The problem is not the available variety of CONTENT on the GameCube that I don't like, but the fact that something unique rarely comes along. Sequels are impossible to avoid, I know that much. But when an older game gets remade and then put on a new generation system, it just makes me mad. The Mario games have changed very little over the course of the billions of years they've been around, with the odd exception of this feature or that. I don't doubt that there are a lot of games for the GameCube, I can walk into BestBuy and find just as many games nearly as the XBOX. My problem is that there are few unique ones, or at least not enough sequels that change enough to distinguish them. Take, let's say, the Prince of Persia series. What started off as a revolutionary PC clunker turned into a 128-bit masterpiece with Sands Of Time. It kept the same name, but the creator himself turned it about drastically. Then came Warrior Within, that made even more changes. Twin Snakes, going from the original Metal Gear, if you wish, did the same thing, but it was already seen in Sons of Liberty, and Twin Snakes kept far too much from the original Metal Gear Solid. Hell, they didn't even change the old Codec transmissions. The one real exception I can markedly think twice on would be Resident Evil 4. It features the same setting, "universe" if you will, but changes it radically. The controls are fresh, updated, much better than that old "stand-and-rotate" system Capcom seemed to have a love for. Make no mistake, I'll admit there are quality titles on the GameCube, but [b]I[/b] don't like them. Isn't that what this is about? What makes the system a big disappointment? Where do you get off telling me what I should or should not think? ;P Eh. It's a love-hate thing. The GameCube has really put forth some great titles and changes for the gaming industry, but I just find most of its games to be... Too dull wouldn't be the right phrase, since almost all of the GCN games offer at least some form of acid-trip excitement. I would suppose they are too "unique", to use your term.