SunfallE

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]I've always been a good cook, for the simple reason that I know how to follow directions. I have plenty of things I've made that I don't like, but it's almost always been a matter of taste instead of the food being bad. In all honesty, I positively hate stuff made for the microwave, most if not all of it just tastes funny to me so I prefer to get the stuff and simply make it from scratch instead. I love making stuff like lasagna, oven baked chicken, pot roast and potatoes and deserts to go along with it like peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies or pie and pecan pie. And then there's the fun of holiday baking with turkey, deviled eggs, spicy rice and shrimp, cornbread sausage stuffing... the list just goes on and on. I usually make a point of trying out some new recipe at least once a month, just for fun. It's usually pretty easy to do since I also like to use a Crockpot and make slow cooked meals. In fact, even when I was working as a truck driver, I had a Crockpot specially made for use in a semi and I would start something when I got up so it would be ready to eat once I was done for the day. The only thing I don't like about cooking is cleaning things up when I'm done! XP I like making it and eating it, but the clean up? I'm just glad for dishwashers since the cleanup was a lot more work when I was on the road. I often relied on paper plates to keep that fuss down to the bare minimum. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]"[B]You've got to be kidding me![/B]" Kendra exclaimed loudly, startling everyone else who was on the bridge of the Argo Navis since per instructions Kendra had changed the COM channel to a headset as Colonel DeSouza talked to her. She was too caught up in what the Colonel was saying to realize that everyone had edged a bit closer to where she was sitting. "[B]Fine, I understand sir. Even though we've lost control of the Argo Navis, at the moment, we are close enough that Bishop can get a lock on your location. I'll send Dr. Henderson to manually operate the transporter and get everyone back.[/B]" Kendra took the headset off and turned to get up ignoring the others in favor of speaking directly to Dr. Henderson. "[B]I don't have time to explain this, but I need you to go and retrieve everyone but the Colonel, I'll join you there in just a moment alright?[/B]" For just a moment Brianna looked like she was going to object and then with a nod she simply turned and left the bridge. "[B]Maintain the lock on the team at all costs![/B]" Kendra ordered before she too was out the door and heading for Marcus's quarters, not even sticking around long enough to hear Bishop's reply. [I]Why didn't that fool tell me? [/I]She wondered as she entered the code Marcus had given her so she could get into his quarters and retrieve the special case that would be locked up. Though even as she retrieved it she knew he could not, if there was one thing she had hated about the military, it was all the secrets. It was why she had left and entered research instead of continuing as a pilot. With a grunt she hefted the heavy case, barely managing to carry it out the door and down the corridor. Fortunately she didn't have to go far and from the loud voices she could hear already it was clear that Dr. Rhodes had returned to the Argo Navis. "[B]I'm telling you Dr. Henderson! The Colonel won't listen to me! He's making a grave mistake! Please! You have to stop him![/B]" Nakeisha declared heatedly. "[B]Dr. Rhodes, we don't have time for this.[/B]" Brianna sounded irritated and upon coming around the corner, Kendra's eyes caught Brianna's as she sighed, causing Nakeisha to turn and see what she was looking at. [I]Oh hell![/I] Kendra thought as Nakeisha came towards her. "[B]Miss Erickson, I tried to warn that fool that he is making a grave mistake but he won't listen, you see...[/B]" She tried to explain but Kendra rudely cut her off. "[B]Do you want to die Dr. Rhodes?[/B]" She snapped at her not giving Nakeisha a chance to explain herself. "[B]We do not have time for this, the Argo Navis is going to crash into the space station in only a few hours unless we do something to stop it. If blowing that damn thing up is what it takes then I'd rather risk the ship being hurt by the explosion than dying from hypothermia![/B]" She glared at her a bit. "[B]Now get out of my way![/B]" Kendra declared as she moved past her, nodding to both Teresa and Cameron as well as Michael who were simply standing to the side, waiting on her to tell them what to do next. She set the case on the transport pad and then stepped back before operating the transporter, sending the case to Marcus. All of them waited patiently until ten minutes later, DeSouza returned to the ship as well, pausing only long enough to nod at Kendra before he headed to the bridge with the others following along closely. Once they were at the bridge he turned to face them. "[B]You'd best take a seat and strap yourselves in, this could get ugly.[/B]" He waited for them to do as ordered, indicating that Kendra take a different seat as he took the one next to Bishop and worked with the controls, linking up to something. "[B]I want it on record that I strenuously object to your actions Colonel.[/B]" Nakeisha finally said. "[B]I refuse to be held accountable for what might happen since you have refused to listen to a word I've said.[/B]" "[B]Your objection is noted Dr. Rhodes.[/B]" DeSouza said without bothering to turn around. "[B]On the count of three... One... Two... Three![/B]" Everyone tensed, bracing themselves for the explosion, but instead a brilliant flash filled the bridge causing everyone to cry out in surprise as they shielded their eyes. It took a moment for Kendra's eyes to recover well enough for her to be able to see again. But when she did... "[B]Marcus![/B]" With a jerk she tore the seat safety restraints free and flew to the pilot and co-pilot seats where both Bishop and Marcus had been sitting. Confused she looked out to see that the space station was gone as well. A soft hum caught her attention as all of the systems on the Argo Navis came fully back online. "[B]I was afraid of this.[/B]" Nakeisha said grimly, causing Kendra to whirl and approach her quickly. "[B]What are you talking about?[/B]" Angry, she grabbed the front of her suit that she was still wearing. "[B]Answer me! What is going on here? What happened to Marcus and Bishop?[/B]" "[B]Miss Erickson![/B]" Brianna voice sang out sharply. "[B]You're not helping things, let Dr. Rhodes go and calm down.[/B]" Frustrated, Kendra jerked her hands free, stepping back and then she turned around to slam her fists angrily into the console before she finally sat down, still agitated. Nakeisha watched her until she sat down before turning back to Brianna. "[B]I tried to explain to the Colonel that the energy readings coming from the rift in the space station was similar to the readings obtained from the gate when it is operational.[/B]" Nakeisha turned on her CBC and showed it to Brianna. "[B]I can't be certain of course, but based on what little I've observed, it looks like the gate is tapping into dimensional rifts, resulting in people being either sent to another time or in the case of the space station, brought to our time from the past.[/B]" She shot Dr. Travis an irritated look. "[B]Dr. Travis told the Colonel what was in the notes he found left by one of the researchers on the space station. Without giving me a chance to explain what I had observed, the Colonel decided to go ahead and collapse the rift.[/B]" Michal stood up and interrupted her. "[B]It worked didn't it? Don't imply that my translation was inaccurate, the explosion did close the rift![/B]" "[B]As well as dragging both the Colonel and our pilot into it since they were tied to the rift because of the link to the device the Colonel used.[/B]" Nakeisha shot at him. "[B]I was trying to warn that fool that it was possible that anyone too close or connected by some form of communications link could be affected.[/B]" Brianna shook her head. "[B]Wait, how would you know that?[/B]" "[B]It would take to long to explain, or rather it's imperative that we get to the gate as soon as possible.[/B]" "[B]I'll be the judge of whether or not it would take you too long to explain Dr. Rhodes.[/B]" Brianna corrected her. "[B]You don't understand Dr. Henderson, it really would take too long.[/B]" She held her hand up for silence and then continued when the others hushed. "[B]To put it simply, if I'm right, we have a very short window in which we can operate the gate and retrieve the Colonel and the pilot. If you go to the Creid Capitol first, it will be too late and they will both be lost forever.[/B]" "[B]Are you sure about that?[/B]" Brianna finally asked her. "[B]No, but consider this, the only way that space station could have appeared, if I'm correct that is,[/B]" She paused briefly and then continued in a more serious tone. "[B]Is if the Creid government has been lying about shutting things down until our arrival.[/B]" "[B]They've been using the gate.[/B]" Kendra said flatly. "[B]Unless I'm wrong, and to be frank Miss Erickson, I am rarely wrong.[/B]" She turned back to Dr. Henderson. "[B]I can explain everything I've learned by studying the data, [I]after [/I]the ship is on it's way.[/B]" Kendra started to say something but Brianna called for silence. "[B]We don't have time to argue,[/B]" She turned to Kendra, "[B]Set a course for Telvaris.[/B]" "[B]But...[/B]" Kendra started to object. "[B]Are you kidding? She nearly got us killed the last time she plotted a course![/B]" Nakeisha objected. "[B]I most certainly did not![/B]" Kendra exclaimed heatedly. "[B]I'm more than...[/B]" "[B]Enough![/B]" Brianna barked. "[B]Both of you, give it a rest already![/B]" "[B]Yes ma'am.[/B]" Kendra said as she turned around and started charting a course for Telvaris. [I]This is going to cause a lot of trouble, bypassing the government and going directly to the site.[/I] She thought as she started prepping the course. [I]Though if we're able to retrieve Marcus and Bishop, it will be worth it. Provided Dr. Rhodes even knows what she was talking about. [/I] A moment later, the course set, the Argo Navis made the jump to hyperspace. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Since you've moved more into site specific questions which is a different topic altogether and really belongs in the Information Kiosk... I've gone ahead and moved that part of your thread over here. ^_~ Now like I said before, just use the report post button in the top right hand corner of your post and remember, everyone has different ideas as to what they consider appropriate. Now as for the member bit, the member list isn't really accurate since my understanding is that until someone has over fifty posts they don't show up on the member's list. As for the post length in rpg's that would be better addressed by someone more familiar with the Theater than I am. I am only familiar with what I expect from the rpg I currently run. And my standards are more demanding than three to four paragraphs. Your other concern is something that if you feel is a problem is something you can pm either Desbreko or James about. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='dragoonreaper;799920]Ok Deus. First of all, if your going to continue to post spam in here. Im going to ask a Moderator to remove you. Watch your language and your grammer in here.[/QUOTE]First of all I'm going to remind you to [I]not[/I] attempt to play mod. If you have an issue with a post, that's what the report bad post button in the top right hand corner of a post is for. Next time I expect you to use it. [QUOTE=dragoonreaper']But sayin what you said is not approved by me. That post is not necessary and not wanted. Don't post anything like this again Deus and anone else who sees that post.[/QUOTE]That's besides the point, you asked a question, you got an answer. The moment you attempt to dictate what one can put as an answer is the moment it's no longer research since you are tampering with the results. Even if his answer was meant to be a joke. Don't go telling members what they can or cannot post, that's our job and again, that's what the report bad post button is for. If you don't like a post, report it and we'll decide if any action is warranted. That applies to all of you, really, the moment this snipping started is the moment[I] no one[/I] needed to add to it. I'm going to leave this open for the moment, but if it continues... then I will simply close this thread. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Alecia wasted no time in heading for the small office that was hers in the prestigious Eshe Rehema medical center. Though there was staff dedicated to seeing to the needs of the sick, many of them workers from New Czenoble, she still was required to check with each patient who was under her care. Though even if she were not required she would have done so just the same. No worker from New Czenoble had the knowledge or understanding of when or if it was necessary to change the medicines that she was skilled at making. Though the art of Potionism was at times miraculous as to what it could cure, it was also just as lethal and dangerous if the individual was given the wrong potion. It was part of why she and other potionists spent a part of each day in careful research expanding on the uses of magitechnology in order to better explore the potential as well as lesson the risk. As much as Alecia enjoyed seeing others respond well to the treatments, she enjoyed her research even more. Especially since she was certain she was close to discovering new cures for some of the diseases that still eluded their grasp. It didn?t take long for Alecia to finish checking those who were currently checked into the Eshe Rehema, nor to check the lab where her experiments were. Satisfied that all was in order she headed back to her office to drop off her small bag with the equipment and potions she used while doing her rounds. Once she had done the necessary paperwork she would be able to head to the small restaurant down the street where her and Alexander often met and shared lunch together. She was almost to her office when a soft voice from one of the corridors caught her attention. ?[B]Lady Almagest.[/B]? The soft feminine voice was almost a whisper. Alecia stopped and turned towards the voice, it was one of the workers. ?[B]Yes?[/B]? The woman shifted nervously, refusing to meet Alecia?s gaze. ?[B]I?m sorry to trouble you ma?am, but?[/B]? ?[B]Well? What is it?[/B]? Alecia prompted when the woman did not continue. ?[B]I?[/B]? Alecia started to get impatient, until she realized that she could see tears running down the woman?s cheeks. [I]What in the world?[/I] Alecia took the woman by her shoulders and steered her into her office and then closed the door behind her. Wondering just what had her so upset. ?[B]I can?t help you if you don?t tell me what the trouble is.[/B]? Alecia said once the door was shut. ?[B]I?m sorry, it?s just that my son is sick and I don?t know what to do.[/B]? The woman finally told her as she looked up at Alecia. Alecia started to ask her if she had talked to someone there at the medical center and then changed her mind, she knew the answer already. Even if the woman and her son worked there, even if the sickness had come from being exposed to one of the patients they helped take care of, citizens of New Czenoble would be denied treatment and simply sent home on the train for carrying workers between the two cities. Which was the same as getting no care at all. ?[B]Where is your son?[/B]? ?[B]He?s here, waiting in the laundry room until my shift is over and I can take him home.?[/B] ?[B]Take me to him.[/B]? Alecia commanded her. ?[B]Yes ma?am, thank you![/B]? She started to say but Alecia cut her off. ?[B]Don?t thank me, I can?t promise that I?ll be able to help after all.[/B]? ?[B]Begging your pardon ma?am, but most would not even spare him or myself a glance.[/B]? More than anything, as Alecia followed her to where the laundry room was located, she would have loved to disagree with the woman. But unfortunately, she was correct. Very few cared about what happened to those less fortunate than they were. Something that as she checked the poor boy out only to find that his illness was so easily treated, just made her angry. Not that she showed that anger to his mother as she soothed her worries and assured her that he would be just fine so long as she made sure he took the medicine she gave her as prescribed. Finished, she checked her pocket watch only to see that it was almost time for her to leave to meet Alexander, she had just enough time to drop her stuff off in her office, but she had only gotten free of the laundry facilities when Alecia ran into one of the head Potionists responsible for not only the facility but for overseeing the progress of students like herself.[I] Lovely.[/I] It just had to be one of the Potionists who strongly disagreed with her views about equal treatment and care. ?[B]Alecia Almagest.[/B]? He frowned at her, clearly displeased. ?[B]You have been told many times that our services are not for those of New Czenoble, if a worker is sick, they can return home and receive treatment there. I will not continue to ignore your obvious disregard of policy and procedure.[/B]? ?[B]And I will not ignore your continued disregard for the sick based on one?s [I]status[/I].[/B]? Alecia snapped. It was an argument that she was tired of hearing. There was no decent medical care in New Czenoble and he knew it. What little medical services that did exist in New Czenoble were often far more than any citizen there could afford. ?[B]You?re leaving me with no choice but to restrict all?[/B]? He started to say but Alecia beat him to it by slapping him. Causing quite a stir among those who were passing by. ?[B]Don?t presume to think that you can restrict who I choose to treat.[/B]? She said icily. ?[B]We?ve had this discussion before and I grow tired of it. If my conduct concerns you so much then stop with the idle threats and simply dismiss me. I assure you, there are many places far more deserving of my skills than some of the overly spoiled patients who are catered to here.[/B]? Furious, she turned and left, her bag still clutched in her right hand as she exited the building to go where Alexander would be waiting for her. [I]I?m sorry grandfather,[/I] she thought as she walked down the street. As much as she didn?t want to cause trouble or create strife for the family, at the same time she could not stand by and watch someone die when it was so easy to care for them. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]So many reasons... but friends is definitely up there at the top of the list. I've got quite a few here so I can't imagine not stopping by. And as others have said, I like how we can have just about any topic and it's rare for the fights or arguments to get out of hand. Admittedly we put an end to any fights, but really, they don't happen a lot to begin with. ^_~ Then there's the rpg's that I'm addicted to doing and the list goes on. I've tried out a few other forums and places, but so far, I've yet to find one that I like as much as I like this place. I always stop by here, where the other sites? Those are more of an occasional drop in instead of a regular stop like OB is. I come here so often that I've got my browser set up to open up multiple tabs when I launch it and OB is the home page for one of the tabs. XP[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]It's really simple and can be described in just two words, well other than what Rach said about the point system; if you followed along in the backstage thread of the Ragnarok then you already know how I feel about it. Anyway... the two words I have for you in regards to this... [SIZE="3"][B]Too Soon[/B][/SIZE] Also... Ignore Allamorph *pokes and shoves Allamorph* :p [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][B]Ability:[/B] [U]Light of Judgment[/U]. The ability to summon small globes of pure white light about the size of a softball and hurl them at an opponent or object with but a thought. Powerful, deadly and capable of shearing through metal. They are limited to short range use only and no more than three can be actively summoned at any time. [CENTER] ***********************[/CENTER] Why? Out of all who were on the side of the stones tainted with evil, why did it have to be Sena, the bearer of the stone of destruction who was left? More than any of the others, he terrified and disgusted Sandra in a way that was hard to describe. Perhaps it was because of his manner, cold, distant and yet ruthless in a way that the others had lacked. But now as Sandra ignored the blood flowing down her right arm since the cut was not serious, she couldn?t help but feel afraid. It was a simple matter to navigate along the narrow space between the seats while jumping up a level or down one each time she avoided one of the spears of darkness being sent her way. Each one reminding her of how lethal they were as they tore apart the seats made of hardened materials as if they were but paper.[I] I can?t let that hit me again[/I] she thought desperately as she came to where the path intersected with a set of stairs leading down behind the seats. Sandra paused for the briefest of seconds as she debated on whether to go inside the structure or continue by virtue of running along the east side of the stadium. [I]Sandra! Look out! [/I] The pink stone?s voice shrieked in her mind as movement out of the corner of her right eye alerted her to Sena coming towards her as he ran up to the edge of the seating and leaped up until he landed on the steps going up towards where she had hesitated. With a wicked grin he was moving towards her as slivers of darkness began to form in front of him.[I] Hell![/I] He was even quicker than the last time she had run into him! At this point it would be a mistake to turn and run, exposing her back to him. Instead she drew upon the energy of the stone she was bound to, stepping back as she hurled glowing orbs of light directly at him. To her surprise they ripped right through him as if he were nothing more than a shadow. With a swift intake of breath she moved frantically to avoid the next flash of movement she saw as it swiftly approaching her from the left this time? [I]How?[/I] She gasped for air as Sena hit her from the side, catching her full in the chest with a powerful blow, sending her half turned body head over heels down the stairs. Desperately Sandra called upon the Barrier of Light to protect her from slamming into chairs and the steps on her way down as she tumbled out of control. Seconds later she finally came to a rest in a half sitting position with her back against the railing. With a grimace of pain she struggled to her feet, tasting blood where she had bitten the side of her cheek. If not for the barrier the fight would have been over at that point since even through the shields she had felt the strength of the impact as she hit the railing. Sandra looked up to see Sena who was just slowly walking down the steps towards her, shaking his head in disappointment. ?[B]Surely you can do better than that.[/B]? He chided her. ?[B]And here I thought you would actually be a challenge, unlike the others.[/B]? Sandra took a couple deep breaths, stalling for time as she moved backwards along the railing, in front of the lowest seats as he approached. ?[B]I?m just getting started. After all, I wouldn?t want you to feel bad when I put an end to your pathetic existence.[/B]? She ignored the pain in her chest, standing up straight as if the blow had meant nothing. ?[B]I?ll destroy you just as I destroyed Lust and Greed.[/B]? Sena threw his head back a bit and just laughed at her. ?[B]Lust and Greed were weak, if you think those two were a challenge then this fight really will be a disappointment.[/B]? He sighed as if saddened. ?[B]And here I was looking forward to your lovely screams of agony.?[/B] ?[B]The only screams you?ll hear will be your own when your stone is destroyed.[/B]? Sandra shouted as she hurled more globes of the pure light in his direction. In the same moment that he moved to avoid her attack her attack Sandra was over the railing, landing lightly on the grass, pivoting in place as she moved to run in the opposite direction, heading not for the entrance to the locker rooms but rather for the stairs heading up to the west side where the seats were in shadow as the sun continued to set. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Sorry for going so long between posts. >_< But then you already know all the fun I've been having until my Internet finally got fixed last week. Though that meant I was horribly behind in real work and other responsibilities online. Anyway, that being said... I'm back on track and shouldn't vanish for so long anytime soon. XP At least I hope not.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Her Majesty, Queen Elisabeth Helena Hohemburg was not amused as she glared at her closest adviser who was carefully looking elsewhere in her private fitting room as the servants carefully measured her for her newest outfits to be made. Though she was fully covered, she was only wearing the bare petticoats and her corset as different fabrics were being held up and compared to her complexion to see how they would work if turned into a dress. ?[B]You can stop averting your eyes.[/B]? Elisabeth snapped a bit as she toyed with the elaborate card in her hand, the invitation that her adviser had insisted on bringing to her immediately, along with a seamstress and her entourage carrying festive silks and satin materials for dresses. ?[B]I?m sorry your Majesty, but if not for how important this is, I would not have troubled you.[/B]? He said as he bowed and though he finally did look at her, he still kept his eyes carefully on her face alone. ?[B]I already told you that I would not be attending any festivities this year?[/B]? Elisabeth started to say, but for once her adviser stopped her by interrupting. ?[B]Please your Majesty, forgive my rudeness but you cannot afford to slight the King of England by not attending the party you have been invited to. It would not be seemly for you to still be in mourning for the loss of your brother over a year later.[/B]? He explained in a tone of voice that was attempting to pacify her. Elisabeth sighed as she looked at the invitation yet again, reading the details as to what was expected. It wouldn?t be hard to arrange to be gone for a short while and traveling there by train would not take that long, it was just that she would rather not. Last year had been easy, it hadn?t been that long since her brother had died and she had been made queen, turning down invitations had been a simple matter. ?[B]Fine,[/B]? she finally said. ?[B]You can send word that I will attend the party being hosted by the King of England.[/B]? She ignored his outburst on what a wise decision it was until he started in on setting things up for while she was gone. Elisabeth raised her hand indicating she desired silence and then spoke once she had it. ?[B]We can discuss that later,[/B]? she eyed the seamstress who was coming over eagerly along with those who were carrying the materials for making her dresses for the occasion. Wincing at the thought of being required to endure even more fussing over her wardrobe for another couple of hours at least. ?[B]Leave us.[/B]? She commanded her adviser. He bowed deeply before turning and leaving the fitting room, wisely accepting that for now it would be better to wait until later to finish making the arrangements. Though he was unable to hide how pleased he was at getting her to accept the invitation. He did not see Elisabeth's exasperated look as she rolled her eyes and then tossed the invitation aside carelessly onto one of the benches in the room. ?[B]Your Majesty,[/B]? the seamstress said with a formal bow once her adviser had left, ?[B]If I may, I have a suggestion for a newer style of dress that would be most flattering for you.[/B]? ?[B]Fine.[/B]? Elisabeth said resigned to accepting the fact that she would be going. ?[B]So long as it?s not stiff and scratchy I really don?t care what the dress is made of or what it looks like.[/B]? All she was thinking was that the sooner she went and got the party over with, the better.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"] [quote name='Chabichou'][COLOR="#004a6f"]Anyway, I've noticed a lot more young people using canes these days. I just find it odd I've only seen this in the past couple of years. What gives? Sure, It's common to see someone using crutches if they've sprained a leg or something, but I'm seeing as many young adults in their 20s using canes as old people. Weird[/COLOR].[/QUOTE]To be honest, I don't see the point really. I think this sort of thing has always happened and you just weren't in the right place to see it. I speak from experience as in the past I've had surgery on both knees and also had to have physical therapy when I got hurt on the job three years ago. And by the way I was in my twenties when those surgeries happened. Anyway, what I am getting at is depending on the injury, sometimes all you need is a cane and it's far easier to use and cart around than crutches are. ^_~ I still have the one I got from when I had my first knee surgery. Age has nothing to do with it, it's all about need and circumstances. And maybe those young people you speak of have a reason to actually need it. In the end, I don't see why it would even matter if they do and I'd hardly consider it weird in any respect. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Since this is talking about anime, I have gone ahead and moved this over to Anime Central for discussion. Also, as I stated in your original post Furry-Chibi, providing links to copyrighted material is not allowed. It's perfectly fine to talk about what shows you watch online, just don't go adding links to them in your posts. ^_~ Anyway, as for the topic, it's pretty obvious that I do watch fan subs myself since I've started several threads in this area about shows that the only way I could have seen them was through fan subs since like Lovely Complex they are not licensed yet and even if I lived in Japan... I don't understand the language so I'd still need some form of sub titles. XP I prefer to get things I want on DVD though since I like having a hard copy of the shows I enjoy and having the option to have both English and the original track with subtitles. Which is why I will pick up Lucky Star once the DVD's are released. Right now I don't have a show I'm watching since I've been too caught up in my newest game purchase, Final Fantasy XII. Though I do intend to watch more of Sayonara Zetsubo Sensei once I get around to it.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]You are correct, no one had gotten their objectives. I can't even begin to describe just how messed up this week has been for me. XP Between my Internet issues, getting hurt and other personal stuff that kept cropping up. Anyway, I've now gotten those sent out to everyone so we can get going again. I already said so in the pm's but again... sorry for the delay. >_< If I had known things were going to keep getting so crazy, I would have said something sooner. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='indifference'][COLOR="Indigo"]hahaha, Sandy... we already know who has won. Why do you think Rach ran off? Won't save him from getting smacked and clobbered by Beth and I tomorrow. [/COLOR][/QUOTE]You know it... I'm going to tickle that rat without mercy. [IMG]http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/9642/thglarerq6.gif[/IMG] [quote name='indifference'][COLOR="Indigo"]Still if anything, I am glad this is finally over. Oh and he's right, everything is[I] [B]your[/B][/I] fault! :p[/COLOR][/QUOTE]Same here, I'm ready for it to be finished and over with. XP And yes Sandy... I agree, everything is [U]your fault[/U]! :p [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]I?d have to say that I?m pretty honest and that for the most part I don?t even use white lies very often. For the simple reason that I try to find a way to say what I think tactfully instead of outright lying. Not that white lies don?t serve a purpose, but rather I prefer to avoid them since it?s just easier to keep things straight later on if you didn?t use one. I think there are times when they are necessary, similar to like what Retribution was saying about one for the child. It was a lie and yet the child needed the medicine, so that kind of lie or deception is acceptable in my opinion. I really dislike white lies when used on me though. The cooking is a good example, I?m a fairly decent cook and like anyone else, there is times I mess up or I fix something that they don?t care for. In that case it?s not going to offend me if they are honest about not liking it or mentioning that it tastes funny. XP Though if I do mess up, usually at that point even I can tell since I know it shouldn?t taste bad. lol Also like Ravenstorture mentioned, in a relationship? I don?t outright demand it, but I do expect pretty clear honesty at that point. Especially when you?ve moved past the point of simple dating into the phase where you know you like each other a lot. At that point I want to know that I?m getting to know the real person instead of dealing with white lies. And that includes him being honest enough to admit if a shirt I have is a color he thinks looks hideous. ^_~ As for lying for friends who have gotten in trouble? that?s iffy. If it?s a friend avoiding a previous boyfriend who won?t take the direct words leave me alone seriously. Then yeah, I?ll lie and say she?s not home when she really is. If it?s something serious, it would depend on just what happened as to why she/he would wish for me to cover for them. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Alecia carefully stifled a yawn as she glanced at one of the time pieces on the closest wall. It wasn?t quite late yet, but both her and Alexander had already had a very long day with work and though she would wish it otherwise, she was starting to feel quite tired. She kept it well hidden from the other guests but not Alexander who leaned over and spoke in a near whisper. ?[B]Unless it would be considered rude, perhaps we should call it a night and head home?[/B]? She looked up and favored him with a smile. ?[B]No it would not be considered rude and though I would have liked to have spoken with more of my relatives, I do need to be up early for work tomorrow.[/B]? ?[B]It?s settled then,[/B]? Alexander took her arm in his and together they headed for the doors leading out of the Grand Hall. They were almost there when they came across Catherine Sara who had just finished talking with someone else. Upon seeing both of them she moved to intercept both of them with a smile. ?[B]I?m pleased to see that you youngsters have common sense.[/B]? ?[B]Common sense?[/B]? Alexander asked her confused as to what she meant, a remark that caused Alecia to chuckle a bit. ?[B]She?s referring to sensibly calling it a night instead of partying into the early hours of the night.[/B]? Alecia explained. ?[B]A smart student is a rested student.[/B]? She quoted a saying that Catherine was known for. ?[B]You are quite correct.[/B]? Catherine said with a smile. ?[B]Not that relaxing and having a good time doesn?t serve a purpose, but at the same time it?s good to know when you?ve reached your limits.[/B]? ?[B]Thank you Catherine.[/B]? Alecia said as she leaned forward to give her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. ?[B]We enjoyed the party very much.[/B]? ?[B]Yes, thank you.[/B]? Alexander said with a small formal bow, a gesture to which Catherine laughed a bit. ?[B]Goodness, there?s no need to be so formal, I assure you. Now off with the two of you.[/B]? She said kindly before heading off to attend to yet another guest. Both of them watched Catherine as she moved off and smoothly interjected herself into other gatherings, going from group to group as she tastefully made sure that everyone was enjoying themselves and that any potential disagreements were nipped in the bud. ?[B]She?s really quite amazing,[/B]? Alexander finally said when they turned and left, pausing only long enough for one of the servants to fetch Alecia?s cloak. ?[B]She is.[/B]? Alecia said once Alexander had helped her into her cloak and it was fastened. ?[B]She?s a fantastic teacher as well. I only hope she?s still teaching when we finally have our own children.[/B]? ?[B]Ah? yes.[/B]? Alexander finally replied. ?[B]She teaches at Chaos right?[/B]? Alecia nodded as they lazily strode through the nearly empty street on their way back to their small home. It was a clear night out and the soft breeze from earlier was now a bit more stiff and chilly. Alexander walked with his left arm around her shoulders and the two of them simply walked home in silence enjoying the peaceful night. A short while later they were home and the two of them discussed their plans for the next day while they got ready for bed.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Premonition'][COLOR="77656"]I'm just glad you didn't have some weird fetishes Beth, you and creepy fetishses don't go together. But if you do have any, that's none of my buisiness.[/COLOR][/QUOTE] No danger of that, I'm pretty normal in that respect or rather I don't really have any creepy fetishes. Sometimes I find it baffling as to how people even like certain things let alone love them, it just seems so bizarre to me. XP[/font][/color]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Though the battle to retake sector seven had ended the other day, the fleet was still present as they finished reestablishing Versilan rule. Celestia and Jason did not know where they would be heading next though the rumors running around on the [I]Creator[/I] indicated that they would be heading for the next sector closest to them. Sector eight. It did not matter to them though as they were still working on the revised update program for the fleet and though things had seemed quiet when they reported to work that morning, Celestia couldn’t shake the smug look that Kenath had given her when they arrived. But other than that brief glance nothing had been said and as the day went on she forgot about it entirely. It was later on after taking one of the few breaks they were allowed that Celestia’s patience snapped. All morning long she had been hearing the crew bragging and boasting about how they had crushed the members of the New Alliance. It hadn’t been easy to ignore how they relished the details surrounding what had happened, especially that of the newest sub-commander; Vallon Drace. Time and time again Jason had in quiet tones told Celestia to tune it out, to let it go, but when one of them laughed over how he had executed prisoners after they had surrendered, she lost it, snapping at the Versilan who had spoken. “[B]That’s nothing to brag about.[/B]” She said coldly. “[B]Executing someone by virtue of shooting them from behind after they have surrendered no less is the act of a coward![/B]” The computer technician turned to see who had spoken, startled that a fellow crewmember would speak like that. But when he saw just who had spoken he sneered instead. “[B]I hardly expect one of the inferior races to even begin to comprehend just what constitutes a cowardly act.[/B]” But Celestia was not done, her anger roused as she stood up and glared at him even more, ignoring Jason’s frantic attempts to get her to sit back down and let it go. She brushed Jason’s hand off of her sleeve and moved until she was standing closer to the Versilan in question. “[B]Comprehend? Understand? Are you stupid?[/B]” She asked rhetorically. “[B]Or is it that you’re unwilling to admit that a member of an inferior race who is capable of understanding your technology, is also capable of knowing when someone is a cold blooded murderer?[/B]” The technician stood up to face her, his face turning red at her accusation of his stupidity. Flustered at her words for the simple reason that there was no question as to her ability to work with their technology. He opened his mouth to reply but Celestia, in a rare display of anger shoved him back down into his seat and continued from the position of standing over him and lecturing him. “[B]You’re newest Sub-Commander is a monster! Deliberately killing others when it was clear they had no means of fighting back! Only the most cowardly of men would use an innocent civilian to get his way, would order the execution of unarmed prisoners and kill someone for daring to think differently than he did![/B]” “[B]Celestia![/B]” Jason grabbed her pulling her back to their seats. “[B]Let it go![/B]” “[B]I am sick of letting it go Jason![/B]” She cried as she turned to face him and then look beyond him when she realized that Kenath along with four security guards were approaching. “[B]Oh hell.[/B]” Confused Jason turned, the color draining from his face when he saw who was approaching, he started to say something, anything, but Kenath motioned for him to be silent. “[B]Both of you have been summoned by Sub-Commander Drace,[/B]” He shook his head with disgust. “[B]Rest assured I’ll be informing him of this shameful display of yours as well. You were warned to behave.[/B]” He motioned to the security who moved to surround Jason and Celestia and then herd them out of the main computer lab. Celestia did not miss Kenath's smug look as the security took both of them away. Instead of calming down as her and Jason were taken through the corridors of the[I] Creator[/I] to wherever Drace was located, Celestia just kept getting even more angry. She was not the one who enslaved other races, she was not the one who killed others just for the sake of killing. And Jason’s attempts to get her to calm down only made her angrier.[I] It’s not fair! [/I]She thought angrily as they continued on their way with two guards in front of them and two following along behind. Celestia did not know what to expect when they finally came to a door that lead to what appeared to be some sort of office, inside was of course the new Sub-Commander, Vallon Drace. Sitting behind a large desk with his feet up and an older styled weapon in his hands that he was lazily looking over. To his right was the dark haired woman who had been with him when he had barged into their quarters a while ago. Celestia didn’t know what to expect but Drace simply ordering the security to wait outside was not it and the moment the door closed behind them she started in on Drace, ignoring Jason’s urgent grip on her right arm as he harshly whispered for her to calm down. “[B]I won’t take it back![/B]” She growled at him, referring to how she had called him a monster earlier in the labs, assuming that Kenath had already told him what had happened. “[B]I heard about what you did to those innocent people. You're a monster![/B]” “[B]Celestia![/B]” Jason jerked on her arm until she was facing him. “[B]Please! Let it go![/B]” “[B]Why should I Jason?[/B]” She declared angrily, forgetting for just a moment where she was. “[B]It’s true, he killed those people in cold blood. He murdered them![/B]” She started to say more and then jumped a bit at the sound of Drace shifting a bit. Startled she turned back to face him and halted at the look in his eyes, wondering if in that moment she really had gone too far. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Aaryanna_Mom'] I understand that SunfallE will be including some new objectives surrounding that and I suspect that will include having to fight our way free of the sector.[/QUOTE]That's correct. It's unfortunate but for a while there my Internet was completely unreliable. And even though they finally came out today and did some major repairs to the main line in my area... I had the misfortune to fall down a flight of stairs earlier today and totally clobber my left knee. >_< I did not break anything but taking pain killers is making it hard to think straight. :animesigh I'll try to get those to everyone tonight, but it might not happen until tomorrow. Sorry for the delay.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]I haven't really posted in best of such and such threads before. XP I'm assuming this is the best according to your own tastes... Anyway, for 2007 there were two music albums that really stood out for me. [B]Nightwish: Dark Passion Play.[/B] This is unusual in that though I don't mind metal [[SIZE="1"]I've no clue what type of metal mind you so other than a general statement I'm not placing it in a genre[/SIZE]] it's not a type of music that I typically go looking for something to listen to in. I blame this solely on Rachmaninoff who learned about it from Jakehammaren. The thing is... it's the type of music I really like. For starters it was recorded with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, something that I have always enjoyed. The real thing instead of using technology to simulate an orchestra. It has a deep and powerful dramatic sound to it that makes it more like a dramatic, expressive play instead of just a song. And though I had to import a copy to get the set with the dual disk so I could have the copy of all the songs that were just instrumental versions [[SIZE="1"]which is what I like the best actually[/SIZE]] it was worth every penny I paid to get it. It has turned out to be my favorite new album to my music collection that I really love. I get stuff that I enjoy obviously, but it's not often that I get something that I absolutely love to listen to. Especially the song [B]The Poet and the Pendulum[/B], which has a Cello solo about four and a half minutes into the song that I enjoy listening to. [B]Mannheim Steamroller: Christmas Song.[/B] Mannheim is my absolute favorite type of Christmas music and they don't release albums often enough. So I was beyond thrilled to realize that they finally had a new album out after going nearly six years without one. Honestly, I was almost feeling like I was going into withdrawal here. lol Mannheim does a combination of modernizing Christmas songs so they sound more like rock songs and recreating authentic ones more true to the original era they come from. And though this album had more of the rock style than the older style, it still has lots of new arrangements by them that I've really enjoyed listening to since I got the album. I also got to hear them perform live shortly after getting the album. Something that was fantastic to hear and I'm only sorry that there was only one performance in my area. I would have so forked out the money to hear them perform live again. Anyway, I'm sure there are others, but really, for music, these two are the ones that really stick out the most in my mind. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]For the most part... I don't really have any specific fears, or rather most of the things that really frightened me as a kid no longer do. XP The only example I can give is lightening in a storm. It positively terrified me when I was younger, but now? Sometimes it still startles me but I haven't had that overwhelming fear of it in a long time. I have other things that though they make me uncomfortable, at the same time it's not a total fear either, in fact, take heights. Even though sometimes it's uncomfortable, other times when it includes flying or hiking it's exhilarating instead of frightening. I wasn't bothered when I went hot air ballooning and I plan on doing a sky diving trip eventually just for the fun of it. Anyway, as for what I love... Like Des I too love escapism, or rather getting into video games, anime and reading. My day doesn't feel right if I haven't done one of those things. I also love the dark. And by dark I mean at night when it's time to sleep. I have thick curtains just for the purpose of making sure my room is 100% pitch black while I sleep. There's just something restful about utter darkness when I'm sleeping. Light, just annoys me when I'm trying to rest. On the flip side, during the day, I love bright light. To the point that I use florescent light since it uses less wattage and therefor lets me have really bright light bulbs in my room. I love being able to have 150-200w for each one in my room since they use less power. Currently I have three. XP Making my room wonderfully bright. I love sunlight as well, even though I have to use sunblock since I burn so easily. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] It wasn't truly cold out yet, but Mount Grail was often home to chilly breezes and this evening was no exception. Even in the fairest of weather the higher elevation always made things unpredictable. So though there was a breeze, it was not quite strong enough to mess up her hair. It was still just cold enough to make Alecia glad for the cloak she was wearing. Though even if it was colder, it would not have mattered since the walk to the Almagest Estate wasn't all that far. The neighborhood was a pleasant place to walk through with all the neatly kept homes and before long the main gates to the Estate came into view. Alecia gave Alexander's arm a gentle squeeze as she could tell that he was a bit tense, "[B]There's no need to be so nervous.[/B]" She looked up and smiled up at him. "[B]You'll do just fine.[/B]" Alexander just laughed a bit anxiously, "[B]That obvious is it?[/B]" He pulled her arm closer to his side, clasping her right hand in his. "[B]I'm sure you're right.[/B]" "[B]Of course I am.[/B]" Alecia teased as they approached the massive gates that lead into the Estate, heading for the side door where someone was there, waiting to let guests through the side door meant for those who were arriving at the party on foot. "[B]Lady Alecia,[/B]" one of the servants inclined his head ever so slightly. "[B]Tonight's festivities will be held in the grand hall.[/B]" "[B]Thank you.[/B]" Alecia replied before her and Alexander walked through the small side gate and into the grounds. It was clear that others were arriving with all the hustle going on and even without being told where to go, it was easy for her to tell just where the party would be. After all she had attended so many over the years while living at the Almagest Estate as a child. "[B]Did you remember the present?[/B]" She asked, only just remembering that she and Alexander had picked something up to give her grandfather earlier that week. He patted his right pocket. "[B]I have it right here. Though I still think you should be the one to give it to Leonhart.[/B]" Alecia just smiled as they entered the doors leading into the home and then took the various corridors to get to the entrance to the Grand Hall. The soft sound of music being played could be heard and though she didn't recognize them, voices could be heard as well, indicating that others were already in the Grand Hall. She paused to take off her cloak and hand it to one of the servants who was waiting to take it and then turned back to Alexander who was waiting patiently for her. Alecia stepped forward and reached up, placing her right hand on his cheek and leaned forward to give him a quick kiss. "[B]Alecia,[/B]" He said in a pained voice, "[B]Not in public.[/B]" With a soft laugh she took his left arm and steered him towards the doors which had been opened to admit those who were coming. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='The13thMan'][COLOR=DarkOrange][FONT=Century Gothic]Y'all a bunch a squares. =P[/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE]There's a difference between discussing the negative and positive effects of the drug and telling people they should go and 'try' it. Regardless of what anyone thinks it's illegal and encouraging others to 'try' it once, is really not appropriate here at all. It is not important to try things before having an opinion on them or making a claim. So lets drop the you should try it bit since pushing for others to try illegal drugs isn't what this discussion is about. OtakuBoards is [B]not[/B] a place for encouraging people to check out illegal drugs just so they can have an opinion on them. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Red']Aye, a little common sense & caution goes a long way towards protecting yourself from threats on the internet. [/QUOTE]Totally true and probably the reason why I've never had an issue with stuff like this. Anyway, my main experience would be with helping friends who couldn't be bothered to turn their updates to automatic, couldn't be bothered to use software designed to stop threats, in short couldn't be bothered to learn a little bit about simple steps to keep your computer safe. So I've battled plenty of this kind of nasty stuff, since I was helping my friends fix their computers. But for myself? It's never been an issue. As for why people do it? As others have said, lots of reasons. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"][quote name='Premonition;798677][COLOR="77656"]No offense SunfallE, but I don't think 'nasty habit' is a good enough reason for him. [/COLOR][/QUOTE]It's good enough for me and that's what matters. If it were to come up where I had a say in voting yes or no... I'm saying I would vote no. That's all there is to it. [quote name='Premonition;798677][COLOR="77656"]Honestly it shouldn't be illegal. I've never heard valuable evidence that it is dangerous anyways. Do you ever see stories about people getting high and getting in an accident as much as alcohol related accidents? If smoking cigarettes is legal, so should smoking marijuana. If it was legal I'd smoke it when I was the legal age. Not constantly, more like every year at least once or twice.[/COLOR][/QUOTE]Most evidence I am familiar with is that of how it causes cancer, etc. I don't really care that cigarettes and alcohol are legal for the simple reason they already are. I'm against adding more to that list.[QUOTE=Premonition'][COLOR="77656"']I don't' give a **** what any adult or other kid thinks about this matter. it should be legal and that's final. No if and or butts about it. [/COLOR][/quote]Nice sentiment, but it won't change my opinion. Arguments about how it's less dangerous are meaningless to me. For the simple reason that every single person I know who has used it has changed for the worse. Not one of them ever got anything positive out of it other than for their own benefit. You can argue that it's not the same for others, but I've yet to see a single person I know use it and not be adversely affected. [/FONT][/COLOR]