SunfallE

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sabrina;810376][FONT="Tahoma"]That post of yours was fun Crystia; I really enjoyed how you portrayed Karl. For someone who didn’t want to be involved, he sure is smug! And in a totally unrelated tangent… >_> [spoiler]As cute as Victor is, Karl is much cuter.[/spoiler]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER][SIZE="3"][B]Do As I Say[/B][/SIZE][/CENTER] Lucia did not want to go to her appointment with the company she intended to work for. There were several reasons of course, all of them quite valid in her mind. The first one was the obvious irritation of having to explain to someone just how stupid they really were. That one never failed to annoy her, having to constantly prove that she knew what she was doing when she had already done work that proved it. Did they really have such short term memories? It was something that she often wondered about since their behavior usually indicated it was posturing, a belief that they were somehow superior over her and not a real need for her to prove it yet again. The second one was different and yet equally annoying, something that as she walked into the building in question was brought to the surface by the receptionist objecting to Ruby?s presence. Lucia knew the humans didn?t allow animals into their workplaces except under special circumstances, but that was something she wasn?t going to budge on. Ruby was always to be allowed with her. No matter what or where, it was her rules and she expected them to be followed. Like always she ignored the woman?s protests and then followed her after a quick check by the woman showed that she was expected. Of course the protests over Ruby?s presence ended as well, which was good, Lucia was in no mood to put up with it. ?[B]Lucia, thank you for coming as requested.[/B]? The blonde human, her contact, smiled as the receptionist showed her into his office before leaving. ?[B]No thanks are needed Jason.[/B]? She was about to continue when the soft chime of her Crystal communicator sounded. [I]Who could that be?[/I] She had not contacted the one responsible for giving her assignments to let them know she was ready yet. Puzzled she ignored Jason in favor of pulling it out, oblivious to his curious look over what she was holding. The message was short and to the point and only served to irritate her even further. The language was clear; there would be no objection to this assignment.[I] Of all the times to?! Why the hell did they assign her to me? [/I] ?[B]Lucia, is everything alright?[/B]? She forced herself to smile reassuringly as she put the communicator away, ?[B]It?s nothing, and I?m ready to meet this director of yours.[/B]? She made herself relax as much as possible, getting upset would change nothing after all. ?[B]This way then,[/B]? he took her back out into the hallway and further into the building. It took him little time to reach their destination a set of fancy double doors with an equally fancy plaque on the door, something Lucia did not bother to read. She had no interest in knowing the name of the person she would be talking to. She just waited patiently for the inevitable stupid conversation of [I]tell me why you are interrupting me[/I] and so forth to finish, only turning to face the man when he called her name. ?[B]So you?re Lucia,[/B]? the taller dark haired human had a bit of a sneer on his face. ?[B]And I?m supposed to believe that you really are capable of what Jason tells me?[/B]? ?[B]That depends on what you?ve been told,[/B]? Lucia answered. His eyebrow shot up at that reply while Jason who was standing to the side was giving her an odd look. ?[B]You do have to tell me what you?ve been told if you want an answer, I do not read minds.[/B]? Lucia explained patiently. ?[B]Cute, that's [I]really[/I] cute.[/B]? The director said snidely. The sarcasm was not lost on Lucia; she just sighed inwardly and answered. ?[B]I am going to assume you are referring to my ability to write and understand computer programs. It?s simple; there is nothing here that I cannot do.[/B]? ?[B]Nothing, are you sure about that?[/B]? ?[B]Why would I lie?[/B]? Lucia was genuinely puzzled. ?[B]If you wish for me to prove this, then chose something that you think I could not do and I?ll do it right now.[/B]? ?[B]Or you?ll just tell me it would take too long.[/B]? ?[B]Only if you?re stupid enough to pick a task that requires time.[/B]? She ignored his look of anger over the insult. ?[B]You are the Director of the project I am interesting in working on, so I?m assuming you can think of a good test.[/B]? His eyes narrowed in anger but Lucia was unfazed, she knew her ability was in demand. Just as she knew that many human programmers were rather arrogant about their ability as well. It was something she had run into in the past, others who saw her as a threat to their job. She did not care, after all their threats to get her fired had been rather amusing, like the attempts to sabotage her work had been. It was possible that her terms were considered arrogant as well, but she did not care about that. Her priority was not to her job as a programmer but as a Shinigami, something they could not understand nor could she explain. ?[B]And what if I were to tell you to just leave?[/B]? He finally replied. ?[B]What if I were to tell you that you?re an idiot?[/B]? Lucia countered. ?[B]Either you wish to have me working for you or you don?t. Or is this your way of saying you need me to think of a test for you?[/B]? She sighed, not bothering to hide it. ?[B]You?re all the same and I find it tiresome really,[/B]? She brushed past him and took a seat at his desk, pulling out the keyboard to his personal system there. ?[B]Watch and learn fool.[/B]? ?[B]There?s nothing to watch, you?re to leave immediately before I call security.[/B]? He finally demanded after watching Lucia doing something to his terminal. Lucia just raised an eyebrow and fixed him with a side glance while she proceeded to hack into his personal network. ?[B]Go right ahead, though I?ve already activated the locks to your office.[/B]? A fact that was reinforced by them hearing the sound of them clicking in place as the electronic locks snapped on. ?[B]Now you listen here,[/B]? the Director sputtered as he moved to force her to get up, something Lucia beat him to by standing up, leaving everything she had done up on his screen. ?[B]No, you listen here,[/B]? she echoed his words. ?[B]I demand certain conditions and if that?s a problem then I?ll go elsewhere. I don?t need you or anyone else for that matter. I choose to work because it?s quicker, not because I actually need to.[/B]? Lucia moved to leave, intending to contact the next company instead. ?[B]Sir?[/B]? ?[B]How do I know you won?t just vanish? That you?ll finish what you start?[/B]? Lucia?s hand was about to touch the keypad next to the door, she stopped and turned back to face the man. ?[B]I have always finished everything I start, check the records of what I?ve done. I did pull them up for you so they?re right there on your screen.[/B]? She folded her arms and waited for him to take a look. It would be interesting since not only did she always finish, but in spite of her odd hours and conditions, she did things in less than half the time other programmers did. But then for her, it was easy. Human programs were primitive and very simple. [I]If this idiot doesn?t make up his mind and soon?[/I] She couldn?t stick around for long, her message had seen to that, though it wouldn?t hurt if the one indicated in the message had to wait a bit. ?[B]Fine,[/B]? the director finally finished, looking up to meet her gaze. ?[B]I?ll have Jason contact you shortly with the details.[/B]? Lucia just nodded in answer and let herself out, not bothering to stick around to talk to Jason. She, unfortunately, had another appointment, one that by now was probably waiting outside her apartment. [I]I?m going to have to help them find their own place to stay.[/I] She certainly wasn?t going to have them staying at her place any longer than was necessary. The moment she was free of the building Lucia moved to an invisible state and took to the air, heading towards her own abode with haste. In all honesty she didn?t know whether to be glad they would have a replacement since that would in the long run make things easier, but in the immediate picture, it would require time helping them settle in that she would rather spend doing other things. Sure enough as she approached her place she could feel the unmistakable aura of another Shinigami, one she had never felt before. The woman was standing on the street next to the stairs leading down to her studio. A moment later she looked up in Lucia?s direction, probably picking up on her approach. The moment she had landed the woman stuck her right hand out with the intent to shake hers, grasping it firmly before letting go. ?[B]You must be Lucia,[/B]? she seemed polite enough. ?[B]I?m Phaidra and this,[/B]? she indicated a tan colored fox sitting on the ground next to her, ?[B]is Sarvel.[/B]? [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Since Lunar got mentioned, I hunted up my folder with the download for it. I rather like the Wall of Sound album and right now I'm listening to [B]Synthonic[/B]. Though for this one I pretty much like all the songs in it.:catgirl:[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Pumpkin;810353][color=#CC6600][font=Tahoma] SunfallE definately is awesome and should talk to me more because I am an awesome goddess and who wouldn't want to talk to me? She was technically the first person to greet me back when I came back to OB. Rach is pretty cool as well. [/color][/font][/QUOTE]Exactly! You[I] are[/I] awesome. I remember the first time you changed your user name and I thought you were gone. I was sad over that since you were one of the first friends I made here. XP I never change mine and I really should take a picture to prove it since Sunfall is my personalized license plate for my car and e-mail for ten years. So when people do change theirs... it's always a double take. Also, Rach is definitely cool. :catgirl:[quote name='Pumpkin;810353][color=#CC6600][font=Tahoma] P.P.S But I do like Volcanoes and Cream Cheese.[/color][/font][/QUOTE]Even more proof that you are awesome.[QUOTE=Pumpkin'][color=#CC6600][font=Tahoma]P.P.P.S Why the heck are you still reading this?[/color'][/font][/quote]Because it's fun! Heh. Now in general, there are plenty of people I'd miss if they weren't around, some I already do. It's just how it goes I guess, people get busy and move on. Others are easier since like Crystia, I knew them in real life before OB and some I've since met in real life so naturally we'd still know how the other is doing. There's still plenty that I want to eventually meet though, because if you consider OB an online family, they're those relatives that I know, but haven't met yet. Heh. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sandy;810150]I have seen documents and read articles about normal Americans who buy guns to their homes to feel safe (the most recent one being the Virginia Tech students who want to be able to carry guns in school). Does that mean I think [I]all[/I] Americans are like that? No, Beth, no.[/QUOTE]Then say so from the beginning and try to avoid sweeping generalizations. ^_~ I know you well enough to know that you don't mean it, but you can't assume everyone does. You've got to include those disclaimers that let the readers know you don't. Ironically, there were guns in the home when I grew up because my father and brothers were hunters. It was never about feeling like we needed them to be safe. I myself, other than to perhaps handle one to move it, have no experience with guns at all, I've never even fired one.[quote name='Sandy;810150]I have also met plenty of immature youngster - many of which haven't even gone to the army yet - who think I'm a coward and a wussy for choosing the 13-months civilian work service over going to the army. Does that mean I believe all who support army are like that? Again, Beth, no.[/QUOTE]See, I've met just as many individuals who think nothing of the fact that their friends aren't interested in military service. Again, it's better to be a little more clear than using generalizations because that way, people understand what you feel and think upfront instead of having to wonder if you really [I]do[/I] think that way.[QUOTE=Sandy'']I simply can't know what every individual thinks about these things, nor can I list all of those thoughts into my posts. That's why I have to use generalizations and my own observations in my posts. I cannot give you the objective truth, because I only have subjective knowledge about this issue.[/quote]The problem with relying on generalizations is that they come across as an intent to argue just to argue, something you even joked about. But for a lot of people who take serving and protecting their country seriously, it's like a slap in the face. I may not serve but I have relatives who do. I have ancestors who [I]died in wars[/I] doing what they believed was the right thing to do. So when you use a generalization that can be taken as a negative slight against people who have served; I [I]will pin you down [/I]on it because otherwise, I too would be wondering if you really meant it or not. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sandy;810027]At least I got some real discussion going on after all those posts that basically repeated the same arguments over and over again. ;D[/QUOTE]Matter of opinion really. That and you know you love to cause drama, changing your custom title doesn't fool me. :p [quote name='Sandy']Politically-wise, I wouldn't actually terminate the army, but [U]I'd prefer to see one with hired personel motivated by the right reasons instead of a ragtag group of [B]immature youngsters[/B] thinking that no man is a true man if he hasn't crawled in a forest with a big gun.[/U'] I would want to see that the young men of Finland were given a true choice of how to serve their country.[/quote]That is a generalization and I sincerely doubt it's true. I'm sorry but I just don't buy it. I think your using examples of a few to describe the military service as a whole. Finland is a peaceful country so I find it hard to believe that the general consensus is that they are what you just described. I find your debate/discussion riddled with these types of sweeping generalizations and all they do is destroy the foundation your views are standing on. Your making the same mistake you accuse those who support it of doing, unfair personal judgments that just aren't universally true. You placing the slant of your immature or a warmonger if you support the military, them of you're a hypocrite if you don't support the military. One can want improvement, but no one is going to listen if you're insulting them. Now as for being required to serve, I do see why you would want a choice, because like Crystia mentioned, unless it's war time, we do. More so for women than for men. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][B]Aaryanna:[/B] What I like best about your poem is the simplicity. The duplicate word of dust in the second line could be fixed, but it does flow well just the same. I like how it wraps up, the final line, Serene Sierras just paints a nice image in my mind. [B]Aberinkula:[/B] You got this already, but it holds true. Your poem is a bit too heavy, the ideas are there, but they need to be simplified a bit to make the impact more obvious. As Allamorph said, I think you tried a little too hard. ;) Now I like both poems, but I do like simplicity better when it comes to poetry so for this round [B]Aaryanna[/B] gets my vote. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][B]Aaryanna_Mom:[/B] I enjoy how your poem is like a song telling you to go and then wraps up with the memories of having done so. I can see it as a journey to get out there and experience things. [B]Darren:[/B] Yours is fun in how it?s a vacation when one can?t, the dream of being able to get there someday. It has a fun feel of; I need to get the heck out of here! Heh. Excellent poems, both of you, I cast my vote for [B]Aaryanna_Mom[/B].[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][B]Treble:[/B] Your poem is fun in how it really captures how much you?d want to be at the ocean. It?s simple and to the point and flows well. [B]8bit:[/B] I like how your poem not only talks about the ocean, but ties in the connection between father and son. It?s expressive and I like the feel it gives. Deciding between the two of you is kind of hard. Both of you have points that in my opinion outdo the other. Treble for the simplicity in his poem, 8bit for the depth of expression it conveys. Excellent poems, both of you, I cast my vote for [B]8bit[/B]. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][B]Gavin:[/B] The thing I like best about yours is how it feels like the reader is kind of lost in the city. The first paragraph gives the hint of someone almost buried. I don?t care for how it wraps up since I think it?s telling two different stories. The first of the voice lost in the noise, the second, it's life. I hope I'm not confusing here. Regardless, I enjoyed it. [B]Allamorph:[/B] Your poem has a very nice feel or rather a sense of the city standing alone. It?s like only the city is talking instead of the person, I get no feel of you in there at all. If that makes sense that is. I think both of you captured different essences of the city, making it hard to decide. Excellent poems, both of you, I cast my vote for [B]Gavin[/B]. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]I think it goes without saying that poetry judging is subjective, especially when you know next to nothing about it. XP Anyway? [B]Raiha:[/B] The thing I like best about yours is how it seems to speak of enjoying the desert with someone you love. However, at the same time that makes it seem less like a poem about the given topic and more of one about love. [B]Rachmaninoff:[/B] The thing I like best about yours is how it focuses clearly on the land itself. I found the line about [I]a glimmer of blue-green mist[/I] a bit awkward, but overall I think it nailed the topic well. Excellent poems, both of you, I cast my vote for [B]Rachmaninoff[/B]. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sabrina'][FONT="Tahoma"]I was going to mention that storm we had back in August of 2006 that clobbered the area, tearing down power lines and creating havoc with all the high winds... If I remember correctly though, that hit Beth's area harder. Anyway, now I'm going to have to go with the tornado instead. Because as bad as the storm was in 2006, that was a whole lot worse. [/FONT][/QUOTE]You remember correctly, a section of the city was shut down since so many power lines went down, it was impossible to get around. It was several blocks if I remember correctly. Then huge sections of the city had no power at all. Some for several days while they replaced the downed power lines and poles. XP But in spite of that, it wasn't the most scary storm I've been in. I didn't see the tornado in SLC, but I did see the storm from further down south, I remember thinking at the time... If I was still in Texas, that would spell trouble. So it was startling to learn a little later that it actually had, since we just don't get those here. Now as for storms, I always hated the thunderstorms when I lived in Dallas. Because I'm afraid of lightening. They weren't too bad, but damn if they didn't drive me up the wall. Utah doesn't get intense storms like that so I like it here much better. Now as for really scary? Some stuff I ran into as a truck driver was downright nerve wracking, like one where the rain combined with fog was so dense I couldn't drive more than five to ten miles an hour because I could barely see the road at all. Or the blizzard that left me semi-stranded at a rest stop since the road got shut down. That one made me glad I was a truck driver. Since unlike a four wheeler, I could just wait it out in the relative comfort of the cab. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sandy;809860]I jokingly said that the consensus in this thread was "nauseating" simply because everyone thus far have been in agreement on a matter that usually sparks controversy. I really expected to find at least [I]some[/I] debate in this thread, but there was none before I posted. My words were in no way meant to be an insult to anyone, and you really read too much into them if you thought that.[/QUOTE]You mean we can't have similar opinions? :p Joking aside, it sounds like your military where you are is quite different, so naturally we are going to have a different view on it.[quote name='Sandy;809860]And I'm sorry if I gave the wrong image that I would actually support being a soldier by a profession. Because I don't. In my perfect world of lollipops and rainbows, I don't want to see people trained as professional killers. But it's their choice, really. I can't and won't deny anybody the right to join the army if they so wish. But I won't be a part of it.[/QUOTE]Professional killers? I honestly wonder how much you really know about the military. No one is turned into a "professional" killer. I've had friends who served and learned to be doctors and other professions within the military. [QUOTE=Sandy'']Defending my family or children against harm has nothing to do with pacifism. There are other means of protection than violence, and I'm happy to live in a civilized country where you don't have to get a personal arsenal to your home just to feel safe. I'm sorry that it cannot be so everywhere in the world, but I put my money on sending humanitarian aid to the countries at war rather than sending more soldiers (or "peacekeepers", as they're often called).[/quote]You make it sound like everyone who isn't a pacifist has an arsenal in their home. Many of us rely on the regular police force and other law enforcement to keep us safe, the only real difference is that the military is on a country level instead of a local one. To advocate against the military, is to advocate against law and order altogether. And humanitarian aid can't change someone's viewpoint. To think that by sending aid people would not fight is naive. Honestly, if that actually worked, it would have already happened. [quote name='Sandy']Just to make this perfectly clear, I'm for the soldiers as humans (as in I don't want them to die), not for their profession. I do not agree with what they are doing in the countries at war, but I do know that's how the world still works. People respond to violence with violence. It seems that not many of you are actually willing to break that vicious cycle.[/QUOTE]I really do not appreciate the assumption that just because the military exists, we must therefore be heartless and only respond to violence with violence. That too is rather naive, I support the military because it is like any law enforcement agency. I don't think it's perfect, but at the same time, it doesn't mean I blindly support violence in general.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]And I am now done as well since my poem is up. Now in response to the idea of double instead of single elimination, if we did do that, I'd go for those losing having to battle the others who didn't advance. And at that point the second loss would mean your out or the win would keep you in the game. Though you'd still have that one strike so one more loss would mean you are out. But, that's only if others like the idea. Personally, I'm fine with single elimination. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER]It?s far more than just that time of year, Memories are to be had, they?re everywhere, From spring, summer, whichever one is near, Not a moment to be wasted, not one to be spared. Precious flowers to be seen and treasured, The days, beautiful wonders beyond compare, Walking in the rain as one?s steps are measured, Dancing among the leaves, such sweet pleasure. It?s more than that time of year, that one holds so dear, Remembering soft fragrances, the crisp clean air, Those recollections of back then, precious, clear, No matter which season, I will always be there. [/CENTER][/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER][B][SIZE="3"]When you're busy...[/SIZE][/B][/CENTER] When Lucia woke up the next morning it was clear what she needed to do. She was going to have to take on more work in the human world to do it, but that was irrelevant since unless she got hurt again, sleep was unnecessary. The only potential issue would be the reaction of her ?keeper? once they realized what she was up to. Technically what she was going to do did not violate her agreement, but it could be taken in the wrong light by the Council. If she did it, there was the possibility that it would lead to harsher measures being used, such as the second seal. However, if she didn?t, there was also the possibility that another assignment like the Count could result in her and the others getting killed. In her mind, that was an unacceptable risk, to continue blindly in the dark when knowing more about Vampires was essential. She was certain there were others far more powerful than he had been. For one who was immortal, so long as they were around, it was only a matter of time until she ran into them again. ?[B]You?re up to something.[/B]? Ruby was sitting on the makeshift desk next to Lucia who was checking her messages while pulling up information on work that was available. Lucia smiled a little, feeling oddly pleased with her decision to do something instead of blindly accepting what she had been told. Or perhaps it was because even if it would be primitive, the idea of building her own computer lab and security for the studio, was something she was looking forward to doing. It had been far too long since she had done any form of real research. ?[B]What gives you that idea?[/B]? ?[B]You have that look you get when you?re going to do something that will annoy the Council.[/B]? Lucia smiled even more. ?[B]I am, though technically what I intend to do is within my agreement. I may have agreed to give up the research in my original lab, I did not give up the right to do research outside the void. And what I have in mind isn?t the same type of research anyway.[/B]? ?[B]They won?t see it that way.[/B]? Ruby cautioned. ?[B]That?s too bad.[/B]? Lucia?s voice was flat. ?[B]I?m going to build a computer lab here so I can track down information on the Vampires, what I have now just isn?t up to that kind of work.[/B]? ?[B]Lucia.[/B]? ?[B]I know what you?re thinking Ruby, but it?s clear they aren?t going to give us the information we want. I?d rather risk another seal than continue and end up with another assignment that could end with our deaths. I find it unlikely that the Count was the only rouge Vampire, just as I?m sure there are others who are far more powerful.[/B]? ?[B]Well yeah,[/B]? Ruby hedged. ?[B]But I don?t want to see you get into trouble either.[/B]? She reached over to scratch Ruby behind the ears for a moment. ?[B]I know, but I think we are already.[/B]? She went back to what she was doing, which was logging into the network of one of the major companies she had done work for in the past. It didn?t take her long to request a quick conference with her contact there, she never had to wait for long and a few minutes later she had him on screen, a blonde haired human male in his mid thirties. ?[B]It?s been a while Lucia, what can I do for you?[/B]? He was being polite of course, since Lucia never called him unless she was looking for work. ?[B]I?m looking for an assignment, only this time, I need something that will pay a lot more.[/B]? ?[B]As blunt as always Lucia,[/B]? He laughed a bit. ?[B]I do have several projects that would most likely fit, but they wouldn?t suit your terms.[/B]? ?[B]Then I?ll look elsewhere,[/B]? She started to close the connection only to halt when he moved to stop her, speaking quickly. ?[B]Whoa! I?m not finished![/B]? Once he had her attention again he continued. ?[B]What I was going to explain is that you?d need to come in and meet with the director of the projects.[/B]? He ran his right hand through his hair in a nervous gesture that he seemed to be unaware of. ?[B]You see, he doesn?t believe me that you?re as good as I tell him you are. These guys are use to setting the rules, not the other way around.[/B]? He smirked just a bit. ?[B]It would be a simple matter for you to convince them otherwise I?m sure.[/B]? Lucia sighed inwardly, even if she sort of understood the nature of how humans thought, it still annoyed her at times that she had to prove to them that she was more than capable of doing the work. If what he said was true, she?d run into the same problem no matter where she went. And there was no getting around the fact that she was going to need more than just a light cash flow for what she had in mind. Plus, even if it was a simple matter to get money if she wanted to, it was best to not disrupt the human world by doing it in what they would consider an illegal fashion. ?[B]Very well then, what time should I stop by?[/B]? ?[B]How quickly do you need to? Because normally, they?ll make you wait for weeks, but I intend to skip all that.[/B]? ?[B]This afternoon. That?s not a problem for you is it?[/B]? Not that she really cared, but again, it went along the lines of not creating unnecessary ripples for the humans. ?[B]Are you kidding? Of course it is.[/B]? His expression wasn?t serious though. ?[B]But, like I said, they?re use to calling the shots and my job is to make sure they don?t miss out on opportunities; even if that means butting in when I see fit.[/B]? He paused to look at another screen before he turned back to the one with her. ?[B]I can clear my schedule for two this afternoon, how?s that?[/B]? Lucia had already checked her communicator after waking up, the messages going from an insistence that she call back to a final one of we?ll wait for you to contact us for work again. She was healed, but that could wait until after she got this taken care of. ?[B]Two o?clock then.[/B]? She barely waited for him to nod before she ended the call. It was sort of annoying to have to deal with what she was sure would be pigheaded humans who had an overinflated opinion of themselves. Her contact was right though, she would have no trouble proving them wrong. After all, their kind of work or rather projects were so utterly primitive that it was almost no work at all. The only challenge and even it wasn't much of one, was to make sure she didn't actually improve it more than what was currently out in the human world.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sabrina'][FONT="Tahoma"]The original Tabernacle on Temple Square has a better organ. At least I understand that's the case since it was rebuilt. I can't tell the difference, but I understand it's impressive to hear live. :catgirl: [/FONT][/QUOTE]Oh I know, that one I've heard many times since when I use to be Mormon and Conference was held there, I went several times. I've also been to many concerts held there too. But I've yet to actually see the inside of the newest center. I keep meaning to, but never get around to it. So I'm curious to hear the difference. Now as for what I'm listening to... I've been going over some of my Sting cd's and have this song playing right now. [URL="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rk78eCIx4E"][U]Russians[/U][/URL] Man, it's been a long time since I listened to this song. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Aceburner']Considering how all this came about, I think it's only fair we get a Love Shack Skin.[/QUOTE]Oh my hell. No, just no. *shudder* [quote name='Desbreko'][color=#4B0082]I can't even imagine how to make a skin based on those. [/color][/QUOTE]Thank God. As for making skins, I remember that James... I took a look but had no clue how to go about doing it since I'm not really good with graphics. XP If I was, I would have tried.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium]Yes, those edit/reply buttons are truly mesmerizing! :catgirl: Now we know that this little incident will live on in infamy. Meanwhile, new members will be scared to death (or oddly entertained) when first choosing a skin at OB, lol.[/font][/QUOTE]I agree, those buttons are awesome. I love the animation to them. :catgirl: And yes, no will [I]ever[/I] forget how Gavin is responsible for Caramelldansen taking over OtakuBoards to the point that we have a new skin for it. Heh. It's like sweet revenge for the teasing over the VD incident. Haha! Rest assured, Des will be getting another batch of homemade cookies for this. :catgirl:[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]You other two should be on more at night; [COLOR="indigo"]Indi[/COLOR] and I have been doing massive brainstorming without you. =P Impending finals aside, of course. This time of year gets nastie.[/FONT][/QUOTE]I know, we should. I may not have finals... but lately my work has moved into evening hours, even tonight, I have stuff coming up in just forty five minutes no less. XP Anyway, it makes perfect sense to me, especially since both Karl and Isen were around during the war. Without some form of ability, they'd be useless and a hindrance instead of helpful. Also, another question, are werecats immortal? Or is that something else that they also gain from becoming a familiar? I'm thinking that though long lived, they are not, though that's up to debate. But it does lend more credit to why many of the other species/races would want to work with the Shinigami. Protection from extinction. Regardless, it's something to hash out. Also, as soon as I get done with my work this evening, provided nothing comes up that demands further attention... I'll be getting a post in soon. If not tonight then certainly tomorrow, based on what you and I discussed Allamorph.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Allamorph;809583][FONT=Arial]Very nice "sex"-quain there, ma'am. [I]*ducks*[/I][/FONT][/QUOTE][quote name='Rachmaninoff'']Six lines Beth. *poke* But nice poem just the same... even if it was sad.[/quote]Uh... I meant to do that. >_> Six lines that is. XP [CENTER]Love Enduring; True Slowly growing Between the two Cherishing[/CENTER] Something to balance out the darker poem based on that fight I saw. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Sabrina'][FONT="Tahoma"]Well technically for me it's Sunday so I'm listening to this kind of stuff right now. I almost always do when Sunday comes around: [URL="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mw6H3crLzpg"][U]Mormon Tabernacle Choir - Hallelujah Chorus[/U][/URL] I enjoy choir music and it's a nice break from all the louder stuff I listen to during the week. :catgirl:[/FONT][/QUOTE]Considering that it's conference weekend, I'm not surprised that you're listening to that. ^_~ I use to do the same when I was younger, listen to quiet stuff on the weekend. Not anymore. Though I wouldn't mind hearing the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in the new center. I understand they have a 7,667-pipe and 130-rank pipe organ. I'd love to hear that in person. Anyway, right now I'm listening to [URL="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMcfy-gp4ic"][U]Elton John The One[/U][/URL] It's been quite a while since I've listened to his stuff. His music is one of those that if I'm in the right mood, I enjoy it. The rest of the time... XP[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]This one is from a fight I saw between two people the other day. It was rather sad. [CENTER]Hate Dislike; Disgust Scorn; Spurn; Abhor Malevolence that is misplaced Belligerence is most unbecoming Anathema[/CENTER][/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]Ha! Ha haaa!! :D[/FONT][/QUOTE]How'd I end up going against Crystia? I think I need to borrow that image of yours Allamorph, for a good headdesk moment. Seriously. XP [[SIZE="1"]and yes I know how, I'm being silly here[/SIZE]] Other than that, it looks like fun. So I'll be sure to get my poem done before the deadline. Since it seems I'll need to clobber the [I]Gaki[/I] in Gavin's place. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='sbsp13668;809559][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"]I've been getting the impression that MyOtaku is being ignored in all these changes/improvements because some people think that those who are sticking with MyOtaku are unwilling to change. The fact is that some people are sticking with MyOtaku because they don't like change and other people are with MyOtaku because they simply don't like the changes that have been made around TheOtaku and MyOtaku. There are many reasons people don't like these changes, they're inconvenient and they're seperating TheOtaku and MyOtaku. Maybe I'm a little late in voicing this, but this point of view needs to be voiced and it would be great if something could be done about it.[/COLOR][/FONT][/QUOTE]I'm not sure if I would agree with inconvenient, for the simple reason that the changes aren't finished. Though I suppose it's inconvenient to wait on those changes to be finalized. I would still be more inclined to refer to it as a preference in how one likes to be able to blog since clearly Worlds at theOtaku is quite different and it's also clear that we are a long ways away from seeing everything Adam has in mind for the site.[quote name='sbsp13668'][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"]The first change should be well known by now, since many Otaku-ians agree that it's caused some inconveniences for them. That change would be the limit placed on pictures, music, and videos in Worlds. The limit on pictures in World blogs disables users from joining clubs, since the club banner is a picture. Of course several users also like posting a few images in their posts, such as avatars, captioned pictures, photos, and pictures of the week (or however often the user posts). Then there's the no playlist rule, which makes Worlds dull compared to MyOtaku sites. Besides, some people post rather long posts and one song just isn't going to last long enough for a music lover to get through the whole post with their sanity intact. Well, I think you get the point here; Worlds aren't as interesting as sites.[/COLOR'][/FONT][/quote]Though I agree that the change limits how many pictures and videos one can put on a site, visually that is, it does not stop one from being a member of a fan club. It simply requires you to use a link to the banner instead of having it displayed along with other pictures as well. So though a member may prefer to have that banner showing along with other pictures, to say it keeps you from being a club member is incorrect. As for music, again you're going by preference. I can see how people who like having music on their blog find it annoying, but on the other side of the coin, I hate visiting a site where music starts playing the moment I arrive. So in all honesty, that's a feature that I don't miss at all. Since I've never required music in the background in order to read a post. ^_~ Whether or not the music will return as a feature, I don't know. [quote name='sbsp13668'][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"]Another inconvenience created by Version Vibrant is commenting and private messaging. On a similar note with the picture, music, and video limit, the new comment system is dull. No colour and no font styles=no fun. Comments are [I]always[/I] interesting to read, but font style and colour allow users to get a little more creative with their comments and it can show off personality or identification. Some users use colours to identify themselves, such as Raina always using the blue font and Magnus Lensherr always using the indigo font. Also, the new comment window on TheOtaku doesn't work so well with older computers; sometimes the comment box takes [B]forever[/B] to open or just freezes the computer up. As for the PM problem, the link between both websites in PMs was a luxury we all took for granted. Those on MyOtaku are forced to go to TheOtaku to read their PMs, so it seems that the two websites are being divided purposely, since the only link still holding the two together is the portfolio link that everyone's used to. I could go on for ages about the inconvenience of the PM problem, but I don't have ages to go on about something and I'm sure other members have already voiced their opinion on this problem too. [/COLOR][/FONT][/QUOTE]Pm's inconvenient? This is a complaint that on some level I just don't agree with. Why? Because if you have any sort of e-mail, you have to log into that separately don't you? In that respect I don't see having pm's in only one location as an issue at all. And when you consider that the new system is a part of theOtaku, they've become closer in that respect. Now as for the comment system, like everything else, it's new. So that's something that I imagine will only grow with time. Since I'm quite sure that it's possible to add new features to it like different fonts and text colors. As for the box loading, I do know that if I use IE I get that freezing issue you mentioned. But the moment I switch to Firefox, I no longer get it. As for older computers, not much I can say about that. [quote name='sbsp13668'][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"]Here's the major point put up against people still hanging out on MyOtaku: those who stick with MyOtaku are anti-social and are mean to the new members for not wanting to talk to them. [I]Not true.[/I] Now that TheOtaku and MyOtaku have been divided, some people have chosen TheOtaku blogging and others have chosen MyOtaku blogging, the smart people have chosen both. It doesn't sound totally fair to be choosing sides (or to even be forced into choosing sides), but MyOtaku-ians prefer the friends who are still on MyOtaku too. Whereas, TheOtaku-ians prefer the friends who've gone to TheOtaku. Then there's smart members, such as ElvesAteMyRamen, who are blogging on TheOtaku and MyOtaku, so they don't have to make people choose. Therefore, users still on MyOtaku aren't being mean towards new members or anti-social, they're choosing (what they believe to be) a sort of lesser of two evils. Most MyOtaku-ians are blogging on MyOtaku to keep their better friends stuck to MyOtaku happy, but are commenting on Worlds as well. (I think Elves' approach to this issue is still the best though, since it allows both types of Otaku-ians to feel comfortable). [/COLOR][/FONT][/QUOTE]I'm afraid I have to disagree with you just a tiny bit here. I do agree that for the most part those who are sticking to myOtaku are not mean nor anti-social, however, there are some who have made the others look bad by viciously speaking out against others who favor the new Worlds blogging system. As well as alienating the new members who were not around for myOtaku. I have to say that because it's the truth. I'm sure being staff at theOtaku contributes to them ranting in my direction, since they are only frustrated, but still, I've been at the receiving end of some very nasty rants and personal attacks over the change. Now I do not see it as a trend nor do I think all myOtaku users are like this, I'm only saying that I can see how such a belief or rumor is floating around. Because there is some level of truth to it. But again, that's more of a case of individuals and not an indication that myOtaku users in general are like that. Now as for preferring one site over another, I think ElvesAteMyRamen has the right approach, not expecting either group to choose. I don't blog at both sites, but that's more because I prefer to stick to the change, and an issue of time too, though I do log in and check up on those friends of mine who have stuck with myOtaku.[quote name='sbsp13668;809559][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"]The next change serves as an inconvenience and a separation, subscriptions. Subscriptions are a great feature, they really let you keep up with your friends' activities. However, if you've subscribed to a lot of members, you won't be able to keep up with a lot of their activities. The list showing new updates from the subscribed members only shows about 15 of the newest updates and bumps any older updates on the list. So people who are subscribed to a lot of members can't keep up with all the updates, since they keep getting bumped off the list by other updates. MyOtaku allows users to see who's updated most recently, but that's only for blogs, so even that has a downside. If Version Vibrant hadn't come along, users would be able to keep track of subscribed members' artwork and blogs through MyOtaku's backroom and the Artist Tracker feature that used to be on TheOtaku. [/COLOR][/FONT][/QUOTE]This is a concern that I've noticed myself, that the list is only so long, making it easy to miss an update. I would suggest addressing this with Adam directly at his world blog since I'd like to see a change made to that as well. I would imagine that making a change so keeping track of updates is easier is certainly possible. I imagine that one of the biggest benefits of the change is from a developing point of view, I'm positive that it has far more potential for adding features that myOtaku probably was not set up for on account of how old it is.[quote name='sbsp13668'][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"]Lastly, MyOtaku acted as a home to several members, expecting them to leave those memories and friends to make Worlds isn't fair. The Guestbook and Archives on MyOtaku are full of memories for members who've been around a while. MyOtaku has a few flaws, but with all these changes happening to TheOtaku it's being ignored. The reason for the lack of acknowledgement seems to be the idea that MyOtaku-ians will never accept change and that TheOtaku is better than MyOtaku. Both sites are awesome, but improvements need to happen to[I] both[/I] sites. I'm not saying stop blogging on TheOtaku, or that MyOtaku is better than TheOtaku. I'm saying that introducing a different blogging system was a screw up (and it can't be helped now), but there are more improvements needed on MyOtaku as well as on TheOtaku in order to satisfy all members.[/COLOR'][/FONT][/quote]Fair to who though? As much as I love myOtaku, I'm still not the one footing the bill. I'm not the one putting my time ([SIZE="1"]well maybe a little since I work as a moderator for free[/SIZE]) into it. What's not fair is expecting someone who has provided a service for free all these years to only do things based on how some of the members prefer it. As much as I'd like to see both sites receive improvements, I have to wonder from a developing side if doing so is really feasible. Adam has already kept it online so that those memories won't be lost, and since it's usually common for an older blogging system to be retired when a new one is launched; I think that's more than fair. Other than to maintain myOtaku, I imagine the main improvements are going to happen at theOtaku since I'm sure it's much easier and can do so much more. So I do not agree that the new system is a screwup. Things, especially software, become obsolete over time, requiring a change to keep up. I don't know how far behind myOtaku was, but I do remember comments to the effect that making changes was a royal pain on account of how it was set up.[quote name='sbsp13668;809559][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="DarkRed"]Well, it's just an opinion. A poorly written opinion that I might have to come back to later, but at the moment I'm out of time. So try to understand this and let's all try to push for[I] better[/I] changes. :catgirl: LOL! I never liked OtakuBoards very much, but I'm kinda glad nothing bad has happened to [I]this[/I] website at least! :catgirl:[/COLOR][/FONT][/QUOTE]Your opinions are certainly welcome. ^_~ Though you might want to take them to Adam's World blog or address them in a pm or via e-mail. That would be the best way to get them addressed.[quote name='chibi-master'']Actually, I'm pretty annoyed with theotaku's changes! Some quizzes won't show up, only the "ask guru" button! I want to create a quiz but I don't know how anymore and I can't figure out how to send the e-cards! It might just be that I'm a moron but that doesn't stop my confusion!:animecry:[/quote]Right now the quiz system is not fully up and running other than the already existing quizzes. Once it is, you'll be able to submit quizzes again. As for sending an e-card, I'd have to take a look since I have not sent one since the change, I've been using the share links and inserting those into pm's or e-mails instead. [/FONT][/COLOR]