TheResplendent

[quote name='Peanut][SiZE=1'] It was a pain in the *ss looking through all of those threads, and I only found one. :( It's definately not fair especially since everyone is in different time zones. Hopefully we get a bit more warning next time, and no more races. I hate time constrictions. ;/ BTW, No hard feelings either. I'll still keep the banner however even if I get voted off.[/SIZE][/quote] [font=tahoma]I know what ya mean Peanut, I was missing the S in Legionnaires after going through the pages i did and i started looking at every S thread from beggining to end to see where I missed it. I went through the pages you were assigned as well and was like "Damn, this must have been frustrating for her", lol. Though it did turn out the S was on page 45. I, like you however missed it my first time through (that green S was hiding >.>). I had to check back on the page a couple of time.[/font]

[QUOTE=Nerdsy][color=deeppink]Pssh. Give us a challange! Opeth > Sweden > Denmark > Hamlet > Hamlet (disambiguation) > Hamlet (Place) [b]Superman[/b] to [b]Sefton[/b][/color][/QUOTE] [FONT=Tahoma]Okidoke: Superman -> Canada -> United Kingdom -> England -> Landcashire (took me a bit to find this one) -> Sefton Heres a bit of a challenge, link: [b]Joanna Dark[/b] to [b]Bronze Age[/b][/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma]Considering the situation I think no hard feelings goes without saying, we had to adhere to circumstances out of our control. We must pay the penalty, so let's get through it to get this ball rolling again. I will send in my vote in a bit, it is a shame though...I still believe we make quite a team. As for the others, [color=darkred]The Mercenaries[/color] have been significantly wounded with the loss of arguably their strongest members in Gavin and their captain Crystia. With only 3 left, they are gonna be swinging for the fences to get on track. [color=blue]The Titans[/color] are on the verge of repairing themselves, also significantly IMO with the impending addition of The Boss. He is a worthy addition and puts their team right back into the race. We must not yield however. A win will be important for us for the next challenge.[/FONT]

[QUOTE=Aaryanna_Mom] It is because truthfully, if all of the challenges were as ?[I]unfair?[/I] as this last one was, I would have no interest in being a part of it because at that point it becomes irritating and frustrating instead of fun.[/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]Trust me A_M (if i may call you that), nobody knows the extent of how unfair it was then the two teams that had to battle for third place, lol. Me and Darren were going toe to toe a few hours ago to get those links, mumbling all the while that it was for a opportunity to just vote one of our members out, i'm sure (though I don't speak for Darren). I too am glad that future events will not be based on similar stipulations, though the concept itself (hunting for letters to put together a certain word) I thought was a different idea for a challenge, albeit annoying =P. I was starting to wonder when the reserved people were gonna start coming into play too. Adding them as event completion stips is a great idea, it's like the team has to win themselves another member rather then each team gets one just because they lost someone.[/font]

[FONT=Tahoma]This event was a race against time, and despite doing Kitty's assigned pages by accident, i had the time on my hands so i persisted to do yours as well DW since I wanted to make sure we didn't get last. Darren was on the same time as I was searching the square so I took it upon myself. My apologies for this, but this event is much different from the first. This event might have been as teamwork oriented as Sandy thought had he not added in the "Race The Clock" stipulation, as feelings of rush tend to motivate others to do what they can. Sakura pretty much did the Titan's whole thing for them, so it isn't the most abundant example of a single member overtaking another member's area. Again, I apologize. I sincerely hope future events involve massive teamwork as I really joined up for that aspect of the event as much as i joined up to meet new people. Fastest team wins isn't a scenario that really works out too great on here.[/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma]This was a real b****. My comments concerning my choice to insert this answer will be explained to my team in our team thread. [/FONT][URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=27017&highlight=Siege]Siege 2. The Necromancer's Return....[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=9094]Resident Evil: Salvation(play)[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=11304]Gand Theft Auto: Ultimate Killerz (play)[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=14715]Neopets: The Battle for Neopia[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=18525]Lord of the Rings: Return of All Evil[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=44009&highlight=Ivory+Tower]Ivory Tower[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=36670&highlight=Inuyasha%3A]Inuyasha: Shadered Again[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=54670&highlight=Asylum]Asylum[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=47767&highlight=Nature+Necro]Nature and Necro[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=45813&highlight=Oppasistes]Oppasistes attract a final fantasy crystal chronical story[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=5701&highlight=Evangelion]Evangelion - a new genesis[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=1489&highlight=Endless+Waltz+Gundam+Wing]Endless Waltz Gundam Wing RPG sign up[/URL] The word is [b]Legionnaires[/b].

[FONT=Tahoma]Well looks like my first day of school came at the wrong time for this, lol. Seeing as how I went to bed exactly an hour before Sandy posted the challenge. I won't say anything bout how this is a bit unfair due to time zone differences, it seems to be lose/lose for us right now but to not complete the challenge would be quite foolish so I'll take care of mine now, and edit this post with what I find. Edit - Well my assigned pages were rather uneventful, heres what I got: -[URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=44009&highlight=Ivory+Tower]Ivory Tower[/URL] and -[URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=36670&highlight=Inuyasha%3A]Inuyasha: Shadered Again[/URL] I actually started looking after i read the challenge, then i decided to look over at our team thread so i accidently stumbled upon these (sorry, Kitty) [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=54670&highlight=Asylum]Asylum[/URL] [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=47767&highlight=Nature+Necro]Nature and Necro[/URL] So that's [b]A, N, I, I.[/b] Edit 2 - I feel bad for doing so, Kitty but i was already pretty far into your assigned pages before i checked out the team thread so i figured i'd finish it off so that way you didn't have to look for letters we already had =/. The last one on the first 19 is [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=45813&highlight=Oppasistes]Oppasistes attract a final fantasy crystal chronical story[/URL] That adds [b]O[/b] [/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkslategray]Outside, the rain poured on the seemingly destitute streets of the city at an ultimatley inactive time of six AM. Inside, a young man of roughly 24 years of age flips the dusty pages of an old book containing philosophical anecdotes from the time of ancient greece. He adjusts the thin square-framed glasses resting on his nose and brushes the front of his silvery hair away from his eyebrows. The dim lights in the old basement shop shone enough light to appreciate the coziness of the lay out. For one to actually be able to read any of the many historical and mythological books on the shop's shelves however, candles were designated to several old wooden tables. Xavier on the other hand, simply stood infront of his desk and glanced over the words between wall candles. His eyesight was more then ample to see the words in any book without the need for extra light. The creaking of the stairs from the corner was the next sound to be heard, as a much older man of about 60 descended from them. The man, clearly the owner of the small speciality shop looked on at Xavier; taking notice to the book he was reading. [b]"Pre-Socratic, eh?"[/b] the old man said, resting against his cane. [b]"Yes. It seems to much simpler yet at the same time harnesses what the true origins of philosophy should be."[/b] Xavier answered as he turned another page. [b]"Yes, well...not everything that makes the most sense must be so complicated to figure out. But philosophy, no matter how you look at it...will never offer concrete answers to it's own questions. We are far too challenging in our own rationalities and far too unconvinced in the purpose of so much to just accept what may seem logical."[/b] the old man replied, as he fiddled with a keyring he drew from his pocket. [b]"The fallacy of free-will in the eyes of those who dare to inquire, I suppose."[/b] Xavier said in a low tone as he adjusted his glasses again. The old man singled out one key finally but was drawn to the young boy's last action. [b]"Xavier...why in the world are you wearing those?"[/b] [b]"These?"[/b] he said, taking the glasses down from his face. [b]"I suppose I simply like the look. It isn't as if the lenses are of any perscription."[/b] The old man raised an eyebrow and just went back to unlocking an old oval shaped door next to the largest bookcase in the basement. Xavier turned his head back to his book and finished off the chapter on Parmenides. From behind the young man however, a shadow lurked unbeknownst to him as he gently closed the book in the palm of his left hand. [b]"Parmenides...a magician they say. How absurd."[/b] A voice interjected at that point, before Xavier could even turn around. [b]"Oh, and why is that? Don't tell me you...don't believe that magicians exist?"[/b] came the voice of a man with a darkened complexion in addition to his shadowy surroundings. Xavier turned abruptly, having not heard the man enter. [b]"Oh, good morning sir. I did not hear you enter."[/b] Xavier said, slightly startled. [b]"No need for the clerk act my boy, but if you insist on helping me...then perhaps you could accompany me."[/b] the man said. Xavier narrowed his eyes, unsure of what the man wanted or why he felt such a tense vibe from him. He tried to get a lock on the man's face but it seemed impossible. The light might have been to blame but Xavier knew if he couldn't see something clearly with his own eyes then something was strange. [b]"My apologies sir, I don't know what you mean. If you do not intend on searching for anything here however I must ask you to leave."[/b] [b]"Are you that unaware of what manner of person I am, or is that all just an act you hide behind? You are far too intellegent to hide such knowledge i'm afraid, and in this case it gives you away quite easily. Now, come with me Xavier and meet with my master."[/b] [b][i]'Master...? The magical power I sense from this one indicated enough of his status or so I thought, but it appears he serves another.'[/b][/i] Xavier thought as he placed the book down on the table and pressed the pointer and thumb fingers of his right hand to his chin. His pale blue eyes were not masked by the glasses at this time, as they sat softly unfolded on the same table. [b]"I'm afraid I would be of no use to you or your master. I am but a shop clerk."[/b] [b]"Oh but you are wrong, boy. Your extraordinary eyesight is but the tip of the iceberg is it not? You can do many things involving the human eye."[/b] the man persisted as he lightened his stance. It was then, the old shop owner emerged from the door to see the shadowy man confronting Xavier. [b]"Yo...you. Who are you? Xavier, is this man causing trouble?"[/b] he asked as he steadied his cane, taking as stiff a stance as he could. [b]"Stay out of this old man, I'm afraid it's not of your concern"[/b] the dark magician said in an increasingly vicious tone as he swung for him. The sound of his hand crashing through an old suit of armor was all he heard and felt however. The statue crumbles by his feet as the old man was no longer infront of him. He spun to look back to Xavier but only saw a long tunnel with torches lined up on it's walls. The tunnel seemed to go on forever like the dungeon of an old castle. [b]"Such a bothersome boy, you will come with me one way or another!"[/b] Meanwhile, Xavier helped the old shop owner out the door of the shop from the upstairs. He handed him an umbrella and told him to take the closest cab home and stay there. The old man resisted at first but was ultimatley convinced by the young magician. The old man was out of sight before Xavier became surrounded by shadows once again, along with the crashing sound of the window of the shop breaking outwardly as the darkened man jumped through it. [b]"That was quite a nasty trick back there. Your a quick thinker indeed, but there is no way out of this one, boy."[/b] Xavier focused his eyes on the man and brushed the wet bangs away from his peripheral vision. [b]"You are right, I can do many things to the human eye. But as well informed as you seem to be, you do not know everything about me."[/b] The dark magician advanced forward but suddenly stopped a few seconds after Xavier's words. He turned his head from side to side and lifted his hands up to his throat. Choking noises could be heard coming from the man as he tried to back away, but the increasingly dense atmosphere around him seemed to follow. The man scowled as he made an arm movement before dispersing his presence. From behind the shadow that encased their position rushed forward and engulfed Xavier, ramming him up against the wall of the store opposite the shop he worked in. The shadows dispersed along with the man shortly after, as the young magician rested on his left knee holding his right shoulder with his left hand. [b]"I got him to back off...but just barely. That was the extent of my air control though. Had he stuck around longer he would have simply suffered from consistent coughing."[/b] Xavier stood up and walked back into the shop. He patched up the window with a piece of wood and closed everything else down. He left and locked the front door and began walking to his house first for a change of clothing. [/color] [center]* * * * *[/center] OOC: Hope it isn't too long and meets your standards, Boss. The concept is interesting and hope it gets off to a good start. Oh, and in case Xavier's powers need elaboration (though I hate to do so since I like the way i played the scenario out), his abilities are that of Illusions. But though everything seen within his illusions seem and feel real and are tangible, they are ultimatley fake and will break very easily if they are material items or walls, etc. The air density control toward the end is a part of the illusion within the area of effect of the person, the air appears thinner or more moist or colder in accordance to the ambiances he can create in order to make the illusion seem more complete in it's atmosphere, though it is more deception as the person cannot actually die from the extent of his control of that aspect of the illusion.[/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkslategray]Leon stretched his arms out as far as he could and let out a yawn. He looked up at Altair and let out a significant smile. He was always proud of what he did, and even more proud of Altair. He treated it like a family member more so than a mecha just meant for riding. Many fellow pilots felt that was a large contributor to why he was such an efficient pilot in the first place. Leon's personal technicians ran in, as they were stopped promptly with an outstretched hand. [b]"No worries, Altair is fine. Nothing that couldn't be handled."[/b] Leon said, as he walked out of the door to his hangar. The technicians all looked at each other as the door closed behind him. He walked a few steps before a hand flopped onto his shoulder from behind. [b]"Leon, you shouldn't be so passive in the post-mission maintenance of Altair. I know it wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been for all of us but you were quite active out there."[/b] Alex said, looking up at Leon focusing her eyes on his. [b]"I know that. Don't worry, I'm no amateur...you know that. There's a few burn out issues with left-rear booster 3 and the beam sabre could use a power charge."[/b] Leon responded, as he waved his arm forward as if offering for Alex to accompany him. She walked out from behind him and the two captains walked down the corridor. [b]"Ah, I see. Another "personal" job? You really do love that Knight of yours, don't you?"[/b] Alex said, recognizing that Leon wanted to do his own personal tech jobs rather then a group of technicians, no matter how good they were. [b]"What can I say? We've been through way too much together, I've personalized Altair from head to toe and i'm probably the only one that truly knows it inside and out."[/b] Leon said, as they turned the corner toward the first door leading to the connecting tunnel. The view from the tunnel was incredible if you were really into seeing the stars and space from as close of a POV you could get without being in a Mech, or floating around in it without one. [b]"I figured as much. What are you doing now?"[/b] Alex asked in a half official half inquisitive voice. [b]"I thought i'd take a shower and grab something to eat...after I, um...take care of a few other things."[/b] Leon said, glancing over to Alex slightly then turning back as if to check if she was looking at him. Alex just let out a short and subtle giggle, one that could easily mistaken for a sigh. They stopped at a four way intersection. [b]"Very well then. I'll catch up with you a little later then, I have to give in the paperwork to Commander Lister"[/b] Alex said as she nodded her head to Leon and began to walk off to the left. [b]"Say hi to Min for me."[/b] Alex continued, waving her hand upward. [b]"Hmph...smart ass."[/b] Leon said quietly to himself as he placed his hand on his hip. Leon kept going straight and turned the next right toward the crew's quarters. Leon didn't want to let on that he noticed Min's injuries through a video link back out in the field, as he knew she would only tear into him about her being fine and to leave her alone in typical "Menerva" fashion. He was genuinely worried about her often though, it might have been due to her lack of real field experience or maybe for some other reason. Halfway there though, a younger man sped out from one of the two way intersections and turned toward Leon, stopping short after seeing him. [b]"C..captain Bromin! Wow, hey!"[/b] the young man said, waving his arm back and forth. Leon rolled his eyes in the back of his mind and walked up to the young officer. [b]"James, please...call me Leon."[/b] Leon said. [b]"Sorry, still havn't gotten the hang of the whole first name basis thing. But nevermind that, man that was really awesome out there! Fortescue told me that you were one of the original 5 pilots for the Crusade, along with him and Alex. Still though, everytime I see one of you guys in action it's so much greater up close then I can imagine."[/b] James explanined, wanting to express his feelings seemingly in a hurry. [b]"Heh, I hope you don't get as impressed with the enemy once we get back out there again."[/b] Leon said in a joking tone. [b]"No way, what's so impressive by getting destroyed by experts like us?"[/b] Leon laughed to himself a bit and couldn't help himself from grinning. [b]"Well said. You are a fine pilot yourself James. Is Paladin being properly tended to?"[/b] Leon asked. [b]"Yeah, no big damage so it shouldn't take more then 10 or 15 minutes to touch this and that up. Oh! crap...I lost track of time. It was great talking to you Cap...I mean, Leon. I gotta get goint though."[/b] James said, as he waved respectfully and took off. Leon stood there with his arms crossed and watched on almost with pride that the Crusade landed themselves a valuble rookie that could grow within their ranks rather then grow into their ranks like all the other pilots had to do. [b][i]'Hm, I wonder how Cora is...it's been a couple of days since I contacted her last.'[/b][/i] Leon thought to himself, as the subject of her sister was brought up in her head after thinking that James was around the same age as her. Leon continued on and walked over to Menerva's door. [/FONT][/color]

[FONT=Tahoma]Hm, didn't expect it to finish early. Then again I was going based on the time here though. In any case big congrats to us :cool: . I knew we'd win, our name and flag definitly spewed creativity and I'm glad we got commented for that. Though i'm not sure what was meant by a power struggle, i merely stated that [i]if[/i] I were to be voted i'd do my best, but ultimatley i casted my vote for DW as well. The choice of captain was pretty unanimous. No dissension in our ranks, though if the other teams think so because of Sandy's comments then it just puts them more off guard :p. Big ups to our cap DW and out GFX artist Kitty. Let's keep the momentum rolling into the next challenge. I guess everyone can still share some stories/jokes/answer the questions if they want, suppose it doesn't only have to be down time to chat amongst ourselves. I can't wait for the next challenge, though. [/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma]I recall your last thread, and it seems as if the situation has changed very little. Thus my advice to you is very much the same as what I told you last time. [quote=me]I happen to be a very big wrestling fan in addition to being an otaku, profesisonal and ametuer. There is one very big decision you need to make which will end everything if your answer is a certain way. Wrestling is something that needs to be a lifestyle, you need to be extremely passionate about it in order to succeed. Decide whether it's something that your blood has stained already and if you want to continue to dedicate your blood to it. In other words, drive and dedication is the most important factor. If you have that, then nothing should hold you back. To avoid injuries, learn to train your body in specific ways. Show your mother that your diciplining yourself further in order to prepare your body for the punishment. That's really the only thing you can do about injuries, keep in shape and be diciplined. Know your extents. If your getting injured from armbars and hammerlocks or other common joint locks than you may have a longer way to go but it isn't impossible. The cracked ribs however, if injuries like that happen too commonly than it deserves a lot of attention, especially if it's the same ribs. It's very hard to wrestle even with wrapped ribs, you become very short of breathe easier. Everything is about what measures you take to avoid and solve the problems. As for your mother though, if it isn't enough for her...the decision has to be yours in the end. It's as i said, wrestling needs your unconditioned dedication.[/quote] What I didn't touch upon before is your mentioning of the harrassment you've received from your teammates. It appears that you've dealt mostly with all girl squads (from what I can draw from what you wrote) so unless you have done something to prompt any kind of responses like that, I can only say that there are going to be incidents like that all the time. People have to deal with being called out and hated on for whatever reason because that's the nature of people, while it may not be in abundance for many people, down the road everyone has experienced some kind of "bashing" or discrimination for whatever reason. From what I've seen in terms of teams that include both genders when it comes to a sport that involves as much contact as wrestling, a big problem is sexual harrassment. There have been a few cases over here but none so serious that it needed to be blown out of proportion through public periodicals. Nevertheless, whether you want to admit it or not, getting into something like wrestling as a female is ten times harder then it is for a male. Reasons range from difference in limits and ability to sexism. But nothing changes the most important point that I've tried to make clear to you, and that is wrestling is something that drives you past anything short of a life-threatening or career-ending injury. Wrestling whether it be prefessional or ameteur is not a sport or a job before it is a lifestyle. If you love it like you say you do, then it is the reason you heal your injuries, the reason you train in order to not be injured, and the reason you tell your mother that you even want to live. If you are wavering in your resolve to persue a career in wrestling, then you don't need to be doing it. What I see being the biggest problem here, is the hospital bills. This is probably a large reason as to why your mother wants you to stop so badly. I'm sure much more of it is the concern for your health as well as what is more reliable in terms of making a living. These are all things parents tend to prioritize when thinking of their children. So you really have to take into consideration your ability, not just your determination. Lemme elaborate more on that since I know as somebody who wants to "prove everyone wrong" and for someone who even wants to pursue this kind of life, you are really going to need to stamp this into your head (sorry if that sounds a bit harsh, but this is necessary). Your determination, drive, and heart may be the absolute most important qualities to have when taking this into consideration. But in reality they will only get you so far if your body is simply not fit for this. It is like being only as strong as your weakest link when involved in a team, your determination will only bring you as far as your body will allow. It is unfortunate, but we are only human. Part of forming your resolve over this [b]must[/b] include facing the facts about how far your body can go with it. If you truly believe that you can handle it, then absolutely nothing should stop you. I understand that you want to respect your mother's wishes, and it must be very conflicting for you to make this decision seem as easy as I'm making it. But just remember that this decision ultimatley effects your life directly, and if it makes happy then your mom must make the adjustment to understand that. Just try to make it a little better for her by meeting her half-way. Don't just train your body for yourself, do it for her as well so she has less to worry about. Let that fuel more and more of your determination so you can fully combine body and mind into your hopeful success.[/FONT]

[font=tahoma]Under the blessing of [b]SunfallE[/b] I have decided to recreate one of the more interesting and original games the OB lounge. Many already know how this is played, others may not but the rules are fairly simple. Copy and Pasted from the game's original creator: [quote=Lost Lightbulb]This game is based upon the 6 degrees of seperation theory, which speculates that anybody on the planet can be connected to anybody else using only 6 intermediate people, or "degrees", if you will. If you've ever looked up an article or two on Wikipedia, you'll notice that each topic has these nifty little link words placed throughout the article from time to time, which can take you to a topic that is, or contains something about that word. Seasoned Wikipediasts like myself will have also noted that through a series of link word clicks, one can end up on an article so totally removed from the original article it's funny. This will be the focal point of the game. The game works like this, I will post two articles that contesters must link together in 6 or less link words or degrees. The person who answers first with the correct answer becomes the gamemaster, and must coin two articles for the next round of contesters to link up. For example, I say to link Canada with President Bush The correct answer would be... "To get from Canada to President Bush, I used these steps; Canada Day, National Holiday, July 4: Independence Day, United States. George W. Bush is linked on the right-hand side under the title president.[/quote] [quote=Lost Lightbulb]1) The Gamemaster must know if a link is doable in 6 or less link words, as he/she will ultimately have to give the solution and give another two topics to link if no-one can get it. 2) If no-one is able to get to the topic, contesters may sharte what they have got with so far with other members, the Gamemaster cna then give hints or clues, and may even give the contesters a link word to steer them in the right direction. 3)If all seems hopelessly lost, the Gamemaster may either pick a new set of topics, or abdicate the position of Gamemaster to the person who h as contributed the most amount of links or topic suggestions to the in-game discussion. A typical in-game discussion may look like:[/quote] [Quote=Originally Posted by Forumer A] I can't seem to link Popcorn to Dan Aykroyd yet, I have gone from Popcorn, to movies, to films by year, to 1982 films, to Ghostbusters, but I jsut can't seem to get there, and I'm going around in circles, help?[/quote] [quote=Originally Posted by ForumerB] That's easy, Look in the cast links, Dan Aykroyd should be credited as an actor in that vey movie! Alrighty then, link these for me....[/quote] [url]http://www.wikipedia.org[/url] - The link in case anyone would like to use. I will take the liberty of presenting the first challenge, an easy one to get the game rolling again. Hopefully more than just myself found this game to be worth playing again. Remember always, it's 6 links or less not including the given topics, anything more will not be valid. Link [b]Taco Bell[/b] with [b]Cold War[/b] [/font]

[QUOTE=Dragon Warrior][size=1]Thanks, BK. I think we did pretty dang well this round. We pulled through together and made some fantastic stuff. I can see this being a good competition ahead of us :)[/size][/QUOTE] What we talked about looks good, DW. Concise and meaningful. In the meantime let's keep things going here so it doesn't look like we're simply wasting time for the other teams to get their stuff in. Though other teams have pretty much gone the way of the Q&A, the interview idea was a bit different so I thought i'd put another little twist on a used concept. Since we are the LOLs, perhaps we should share some laugh-worthy banter with one another. So i'll jump-start it with these little themed questions and suggestions: [b]1) Who is your favorite comedian? Either stand up or movie actor/actress.[/b] [b]2) Share 3 of your favorite jokes with us, let's keep em clean for the most part though. At least no racial/sexual jokes (though I know we've probably heard our share)[/b] [b]3) Share with us a funny incident that happened in your life. Something you did with your friends, something accidental, maybe a botched move in driver's ed? It can be anything you feel we could get a good laugh out of, perhaps without incriminating yourself =).[/b] [b]4) If LOL was not the common slang to express laughter or acknowledgement on the internet to things that warrant such responses, what other 3 letters should be? And what would they stand for?[/b]

[QUOTE=Blayze][b][font=Lucida Sans Unicode]BKStyles[/font][/b][font=Lucida Sans Unicode], I salute you. I really do. In this current trend of OB fanfics pouring out left right and centre, it really is refreshing to see such a detailed piece of original work. You have clearly put a lot of thought into this, and thought a lot about the whole background of the world. This is an incredibly important thing to do when writing something, but then again, having written a lot in the past, you probably know that already. I really like the idea of dragons actually being peaceful creatures, but ones which men have corrupted to use for war. It does sound like the kind of thing humans would do in such a situation. Your description is superb - I really could imagine just what was happening here. So, in summary - good work, and please keep it up. I look forward to the next chapter of this with great anticipation. [/font][/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]I greatly appreciate the feedback, Blayze. It doesn't seem like I have impressed too many other people, but I will probably continue the story anyhow, lol. I already had a second chapter in mind so might as well go with it. But again, thanks for the compliments and your interest. [/font]

[QUOTE=Adahn][size=2]SunfallE,[/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]I apologize for overlooking the rules when creating this thread, and I will try to be more conscious of what I am doing next time.[/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]I really have to learn that not everyone's a mind reader. I was trying to be cryptic, but not to the point that it angers and confuses people.[/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]DigitalBoy,[/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]I still can't make much sense of what you're trying to say. None of the words I used should have required but a moment's thought to ascertain their meaning. Yet, even your explanations require special attention due to their staggered sentence structure. What voice would I like to hear? One that is cryptic, but can also be unravelled without the use of a specialized dictionary. I cannot tell you how much I [i]love[/i] complete sentences.[/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]As for what I wrote originally, I will explain everything I wrote, and the intent. It would be [i]fun[/i] if I didn't have to, but what can be done?[/size] [size=2]The first sentence places you in a chair in front of a computer, and tells you that you are being asked why. Everything following it is meant to confuse you as to the question, and cause you to lose your train of thought. It is [i]especially[/i] meant to separate the first sentence from the next two paragraphs.[/size] [/size][size=2][/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]Here I am, explaining why I am here. I am answering the question I didn't quite ask, but to which I alluded. I thought for [i]sure[/i] people would understand this and think to themselves, "Wow, that's a strange way to ask a question!" Unfortunately, I failed completely. The last two sentences are tangentially inspired bullcrap. I thought that might not be obvious, so the first sentence of the next paragraph starts as you can see below.[/size] [/size][size=2][/size] [size=2]Apart from the first sentence, the rest is essentially true. It is also a continuation of my answer to the question, which I thought would be even [i]more[/i] painfully obvious.[/size] [size=2][/size] [size=2]I [i]like[/i] being cryptic, but I also wanted people to be [i]able[/i] to interpret what I said. I suppose my hints are visible to me alone, unless some of you can see what I was getting at, now that I have explained everything. If you still think I was impossible to understand, please don't tell me. I can't be cryptic [i]and[/i] be clearer than I am here without feeling cheap. I suppose my flaw is that I am more afraid of being taken as an idiot trying to be cryptic than an idiot trying too hard to be cryptic.[/size][/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]I was holding off on posting in this thread because I easily saw things getting a bit out of hand, but this post alone really does wonders for how I am about to approach what has been discussed in this topic thus far. What you've realized here, regardless of whether you are being sincere or facetious, is a concept essential to maturing your intellectuality. The concept is realizing that when you've thought something through in your own head, no matter how it's worded it is initially understandable by yourself only. The level of everyone's knack for understanding, analysis, or linguistic decoding varies greatly. Considering this when conveying your messages, questions, opinions, etc etc is the difference between being presumptuous and being humble. A community like OB is full of all kinds of people, when posting here or any other publically open venue it's important to remember that when things are worded they should appeal to the understanding capability of the masses unless otherwise noted beforehand. Not necessarily because of the varying levels in people's intellegence, but because your personal ways of thinking and understanding may simply be different from other's. So it's more of a case pertaining to perception and comprehension then it is a case of intellegence. As there are also many different forms of intellegence, and descriptions for those forms. In reference to the reason why you believe your flaw is what it is, that very fear comes naturally to many people. You have to try and realize though that people truly put less stock into their judgement about you when you're not trying to impose yourself through the means of how you posted your first post in this thread. I think White has already said that it would have been more than acceptable to word the questions the most obvious way, and that it seems you tried to overshadow the intention of the post with your desire to showcase your level of intellegence to everyone. When you are an intellegent person, respect comes much in the same way as it does for anybody...there is no real exception. Do not try to force it upon others, just contribute what you can and let people see it for themselves. The results may seem to come slower, but when they come it will be in a much larger effect. To be an idiot you have to showcase idiocy, not the lack of intellegence. Do not feel like an idiot because you are unable to reveal what you want to the fullest extent of how you want. People are not judging you based on your own standards, remember that. In any case, I did originally understand what you wanted to ask but just chose not to post in it yet. But since i've decided to post this, it would seem appropriate that I answer the question and keep the thread on topic as best I can =). Why am I here? Well, like many others I was probably drawn to OB while looking for something elsewhere (in my case, a search engine) and I was taken to a thread dedicated to a thread in the anime section (about Naruto if i remember correctly). For the longest time i visited Theotaku.com for whatever purpose (wallpapers, articles, etc) and rarely ventured into OB itself. Then when I finally decided to register and start posting, my main goals was to contribute to the topics that piqued my interest so I could enjoy discussions and debates on topics of common interest between myself and others. From there I found myself to the Adventure Square, since RPing has been an interest of mine for years. It's there I met many of my the current friends I speak to now from OB, and at this point it has really become a cozy place for me to be. Still being rather new in comparison to the majority of the active members on the board, I've settled in rather well I feel.[/font]

[QUOTE=White][COLOR=DimGray][FONT=Tahoma]The [b]definition[/b] of Atheism is the disbelief in the existence of any deities. And I wouldn't call Dane a devout Catholic. He swears like nothing else. Anyway, my favourite Dane Cook skit (aside from the Atheist one) would have to be one of the parts on Vicious Circle. My friend got the DVD for Christmas and we watched it countless times. Lots of luls. I love when he's talking about women and men in an argument and how the woman always has this secret weapon. Ah, you'd have to watch it but it really is hillarious.[/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]Swearing isn't so much of a sin as it is something that is frowned upon in Catholocism. Unless of course it is using the lord's name in vain. Which would I guess technically make me not such a devout catholic since I tend to do that from time to time, heh. Though I suppose that's nothing compared to not being in a church since two easters ago. But anywho...as it pertains to Vicious Circle my favorite part is definitly when he's talking about how cheating comes back to haunt you. It's not nearly as funny listening to it as watching it while listening to it though, heh. A close second would be the B&E skit, just for the part where he imitates the father of the family everytime when he's like "WHAT THE HELL DID THEY TAKE!?". [/font]

[FONT=Tahoma]Everything looks awesome. Kitty you are one talented...um...kitty ^_^. The splash of our team in the main OBS thread is sick too, kudos to DW big time for that piece of art. Now everyone is gonna try to out-do us, heh. In reference to your answer Darren, I definitly know what that's like. It's the same i believe for many professions that involve creation through writing. Whether it be music, stories, scripts, etc etc. It's like DW said already, doubt and dis-satisfaction come naturally i think. At least at first. It's why i'm greatful i'm faster on a keyboard than I am with a pen, i can just delete or put something aside instead of having piles of crumpled up paper :cool: . As for your musical preferences, I've actually heard of and like very much The Song of the Nibelungen (which will probably surprise you, lol). I am a fan of most Baroque composers, especially Monteverdi and Bach (Baroque is pretty much the first era of music in history i really started to appreciate, though it is not the only). Mozart as well however, I am indeed a fan of. Anywho, it seems we sit and wait for our oppositions now. [/FONT]

[QUOTE=Dragon Warrior][size=1] [b]To BK:[/b] Have you ever made any independent films? If so, what were they? If not, do you plan to before getting involved in the actual career? [/size][/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]Hm, well while i've never stepped foot into an independent production studio I have been in several student independent films. Though i've never actually directed one, i was co-director (in which I did pretty much most of the work anyway) in one. It took place during the time of WWII, involving perspectives from being in an actual nazi concentration camp from both POVs (nazis and victims). Not exactly something that would take priority on my personal list of stories i'd love write/direct but it was not under my control at the time anyhow. Still, it was a rather enjoyable project. I'd like to do quite a few before actually trying to break into the industry. One of the upcoming classes that I'll have to take for my major will involve making a film, hopefully from a free script of our choice. Movies are not the only forms of media/tv that I'd like to conquer though, many ideas I have in mind would be better suited as animes or even video games then movies. I like to be as versatile as possible, but my primary focus will indeed be with films based either on my own original scripts or certain other ones that i'd like to either re-do or convert. [/font]

[FONT=Tahoma]You guys know the point of the interview was so that you could all ask things as well =P. Though you don't have to. It looks like we're pretty much done with the exception of the flag, so all of our hopes rest on Revey's shoulders now :P. Also, DW I sent you a PM about something concerning the official judgement. [/FONT]

[QUOTE=Peanut][size=1][font=tahoma] Personally for [u]color[/u] I think we should go for a sage green or turquoise. While I love your name for the team BKStyles, it seems a bit too long for me. I'd be opt to go for "Sapientes" because I think that would be a very elegant sounding name and green like a "serpent" just seems like it would make a perfect fit. But that may just be me.[/size][/font] [/quote] [font=tahoma]The shortening of the name sounds good to me. I don't mind. As for the color, it looks like Green is popular so far, so as I said i do not mind whatever the majority choice is. But if it is in the best interest of avoiding common indecisiveness, I say we officially make Green our color, to go along with the unanimous decision that Dragon Warrior is our team captain. Thus knocking 2 decisions out so far. Our name and flag should however involve more intricate deliberation. Though I am still a fan of Sapientes, out of all of DW's proposals though I do enjoy the Laugh Out Louds the best. Hehe. The most important thing to remember about choosing the team name though is that it must describe us in the most appropriate manner in order to meet round 1's requirements. [/font] [quote name='Dragon Warrior][size=1']I plan to become a famous film actor who directs, writes, and stars in his own movies[/size][/quote] [font=tahoma]I can honestly say i've never met another person with the same exact life goals as myself. Though i do enjoy acting, writing and directing my own material takes high priority over actually starring in them, as I probably don't have the most ideal look for the screen despite having ample talent. But as I said in my intro thread, I am studying Film and Media in hopes to gain ample experience to turn my dream of being a Writer/Director into a reality, despite still believing at this point that it is the "dream job" in the sense that it's still a bit difficult to see it happening. I've always described this ideal as wanting to "bring my own creations to life" rather then just coming out and saying I want to be a Writer/Director. [/font] [quote name='Dragon Warrior][size=1']That's about it for me. I do love friends and of course I'd like to get to know you all better (even you, BK, because you're so insistant we all get lovey dovey Haha). So here I am. I'm ready to take on the world.[/size][/quote] [font=tahoma]Yep, one big happy family.[/font]

[font=tahoma][b]1[/b]. A formal introduction it is then: -[b]Name/Age/Basics:[/b]As the handy little quick profile feature in Sandy's first post has told you, my name is Matt, my name here on OB is BKstyles. I am 21 years of age and I am from New York. [center][IMG]http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b191/Bklynstyles/matt1.bmp[/IMG] [IMG]http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b191/Bklynstyles/NewKoW.jpg[/IMG][/center] -[b]Strength and Weakness Elaboration:[/b] Despite my strengths reading out only Creative Writing and RPGs, I also believe that my strength in writing transliterates easily to my skills in speaking, and therefore I can debate as easily in writing as I can through words. Thus I feel my strengths lay with anything involving my imagination, articulation, and logical deduction and reasoning. Aside from those, based on the standards of how our strengths should be measured according to the OBS4 system, I am also essentially strong in Video Games (RPGs, FPS, and Fighting Game specialist). Hooray for the nerd in me =). My weaknesses are indeed anything that involves taking physical action in art (drawing, painting, even gfx). While I have an appreciation for good art, I simply cannot make it myself no matter how hard I try :p . I am actually taking a drawing class this upcoming semester to see if I can improve in some way. -[b]School/Work:[/b]I am a college student, majoring in Film and Media, minoring in Psychology. I typically enjoy my classes, especially if they are psych classes. I am currently under consideration for an office job at a local funeral home (nothing having to do with the dead bodies mind you, just the administrative duties) since I was unable to procure my more desired position working at a Gamestop. -[b]Movies:[/b] I mostly enjoy martial arts and action movies. Especially Jet Li or Tony Jaa movies, and any James Bond movie. John Travolta is however my all time favorite actor. Some particular favorite movies include FFVII: Advent Children, Interview with the Vampire, Hero, Fight Club, and Face/Off. -[b]Food:[/b] I love Quiznos and Taco Bell =). -[b]Music:[/b] Aerosmith, RHCP, Breaking Benjamin, Foo Fighters, The Black Mages, FLOW, UVERworld, Orange Range, Ayumi Hamasaki just to name a few. [b]2[/b]. Alright i'll pitch an idea. Just so we have something out there to play around with until someone else proposes something: [b]Sapientes Gladio[/b] - Name taken from a particular game, but the meaning of the name i believe is well rounded (Sages of the Sword) as it describes our team as not only being wise, creative and intellegent but metaphorically and equally capable on the flipside. Or the "Sword" itself can be representative of the competition itself as a sword is most obviously a tool for defeating one another in combat, it's latent functions are that of decision and representation. It is used to decide many aspects of life other then whether it is kept or not. In the past swords were used to decide status, such as when an individual was knighted by a King. Or the sword itself that decided who [i]would be[/i] King during a particular time, the sword known as Excalibur. Ceremonial swords would be used to display and represent power, with such examples of such being the Sword of Justice used to grant executioners power that is representative of the law in certain times. Claiming ourselves as the Sages of the Sword, it says that we not only control but we are masters of everything the sword and therefore this competition represents, which is power, status, and the ability to defeat our opposition. Sorry if that seems a bit obscure, just thinking off the top of my head at the moment. [b]3[/b]. I vote either [color=darkred]Dark Red[/color] or [color=darkslategray]Dark Slate Gray[/color], but I will be fine with anything chosen. [b]4[/b]. I would very much like to undertake this role myself, but I will heed the majority's decisions. If I were to choose another invidual it too would be Dragon Warrior. [b]5[/b]. From what I see, we have one proficient GFX artist in the group so once we figure everything out I guess it will be up to Kitty to present us with the finished product. My apologies if anyone else is a GFX artist and i've overlooked them, I just went with who I know is for sure. [b]On some side notes[/b], I'd just like to say that I already know Kitty, and am looking forward to getting to know Dragon Warrior, Peanut, and Rachmaninoff better as the competition plays out =) [b]Edit[/b] - A nifty little idea to further the interactivity between one another, though it may seem more useful to myself then it will to others for I am not entirely sure on how well everyone else knows each other. But there must be many things that we all do not know about one another despite how much we may know. So I will address one question to each member in the form of an interview in hopes to learn more about them. Each member can do the same, and as their questions are answered we may all learn at the same time by reading them and eventually everyone will have answered a total of 4 questions, one from each of their teammates. I will start: -[b]Kitty:[/b] I know that like myself (and i'm sure many others on the board) you want to eventually visit another country other then the U.S, in both of our cases it seems the first one we'd like to visit is Japan. My question is what would be the very first thing you'd like to do there, that you would not be able to do where you currently live? -[b]Dragon Warrior:[/b] To my understanding you are a fan of Pirates, and have probably seen both Pirates of the Carribbean movies. My questin to you is who do you think would have made a great alternate actor for Captain Jack Sparrow if Johnny Depp could not do the role, and why? -[b]Peanut:[/b] Though I suspect that [b]Mameha[/b] and [b]Pumpkin[/b] have both been influenced by Memoirs of a Geisha, my question to you involves wanting to know the origins of your current and past usernames here on OB. -[b]Rachmaninoff:[/b] Clearly you have a heightened appreciation of music, including forms of classical music (though i may be misinterpreting). My question to you is who are some of your favorite composers, and what style of music has influenced you the most? [/font]

[font=tahoma]Though I've written many stories, this is the first i've written for the purpose of posting here in the Anthology. I hope it is an enjoyable read for most of you, and do not hold off on the feedback please :p . This particular story takes place in a fantasy world, in a similar setting to that of most medieval dragon movies (or Elicoor II from Star Ocean for those who are familiar with the game). [center]* * * * *[/center] [center][size=4][b]Prelude / Chapter 1[/b][/size][/center] In the land of [color=green]Grateus[/color], man and woman lived together among creatures of lore that one typically only hears about through stories and tales. Winged creatures such as Wyverns that roamed the skies until they were harnessed and Serpents that rule the waters from coast to coast. Many years ago however, magnificent creatures known as Dragons also roamed the land. Massive in size, they could take to the air with their wings or walk the earth in similar affinity. Unfortunately, it was also due to man?s desire for power that led to the dragon?s extinction. Once plentiful in numbers, dragons were harnessed by several groups throughout the years that fought one another for whatever purpose. War is a product of man no matter what era it is in, and the reasons seem to vary as much as we human?s do in physical appearance. As dragons were used as vessels for man to ride into battle, their lives have been shortened by a number of tragedies. Most of which involved all out attacks on dragons and their nests to weaken the advantages of the opposing army. In such expedited executions however, despite being fairly difficult it also effectively diminished the chances for mature eggs to hatch with healthy baby dragons to be born. At the end of what has come to be known as the Continental War, the eastern continent of [color=teal]Kythira[/color] and the western continent of [color=teal]Nidorram[/color] became almost entirely torn asunder in human contact, following the victory of the forces of [color=teal]Nidorram[/color]. In addition, only nineteen dragons remained in [color=gree]Grateus[/color] after the chaos. Over the next few decades, some began to die out from either old age or wounds that even the strongest curative magic could not heal. Forty years later, with fourteen dragons left they were now the victims of assassinations. A branch from the forces of [color=teal]Kythira[/color] that fought during the Continental War have emerged after going into hiding, under the leadership of a man named Garai. Garai and his followers sought to take revenge on those who remained from the opposition of the war, as well as their children and the dragons that remained in their keep. A new empire was born after much of [color=teal]Kythira[/color] was overrun by Garai and his forces, which grew greatly in number from town to town, city to city, and outpost to outpost. Many were still bitter from the outcome of the war, and forsook hope of one day reconnecting the continents between people in peace. They were easily convinced that the gaining of power under those who were adept a leadership and tactics in order to intimidate those of [color=teal]Nidorram[/color] was truly the right path. A sudden uprising in power for Garai would have been impossible however if it were just a couple of hundred seeking to form an empire. It was with the help of several inhabitants of [color=teal]Nidorram[/color] who were displeased with their status, creating riots and assassinating several leaders of the Western Kingdom that allowed Garai to take full advantage of the anarchy in the capital cities of [color=orange]Pharesh[/color] and [color=orange]Khardok[/color]. Four of the remaining dragons were killed by a massive nest assault by Garai?s wizards and necromancers. The rest of the continent fell easily with the capitals in shambles, and soon enough Garai?s empire had majority control over both continents with private usage of the ports that connected travel between [color=teal]Kythira[/color] and [color=teal]Nidorram.[/color] The remaining ten dragons were hidden due to lack of numbers to contest the Empire?s forces. Today, two resistances against the Empire exist on both continents. On the west, the [color=blue]Sapiens[/color] Resistance led by Gavlin Leonus. On the east, the [color=blue]Validus[/color] Resistance led by Vidarr Kaien. Though there is not much contact between the two, their goals are the same. Private ships are run in the blind spot of the empire with hopes that it can be continued as long as needed as a form of sending messages and communicating. In addition to an agreement made between the two, 5 dragons were granted to the [color=blue]Validus[/color] in order to be on equal grounds to fight the [color=red]Empire[/color]. Each dragon has only one rider, the roles of these riders are incredibly important to the ideals of the resistances and the eradication of the [color=red]Empire[/color]?s influence and hold on [color=green]Grateus[/color]. [center]* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *[/center] Donovan turned his attention down toward the field from his position upon the mountaintop. The enemy?s Wyvern Brigade was sure to reinforce it?s ground units, and in very little time. It was hardly anything to worry about at that moment however, the numbers were greatly in the favor of the Resistance. It was exactly that however that puzzled Donovan. [i]?Why launch an attack on a strategic stronghold of the Resistance with such a menial force??[/i] and [i]?Doesn?t Garai care about the slaughter that is sure to befall his troops this day?? [/i]were two prominent questions that ran through his head. Time passed by as the field began to grow more abundant in numbers that supported a victory for the Resistance. The young commander rested his eyes for a few brief seconds, as his thoughts seemed to be answered by his companion. [b]?It does not seem as if Garai will be sending his Wyvern Brigade in, Donovan. This battle has been won with no aid from us.?[/b] Donovan stood from his kneeling position and grunted as he fixed his weapon to the custom made sheath that was strapped around his companion, in a gesture of agreement with her. Donovan wielded a hybrid knight?s sword that was fashioned like a lance. A 24 inch hilt with a thick blade nearest the hilt that narrowed into a more than ample piercing capable point. [b]?Such a wasteful battle, what was its purpose? In comparison to the Empire we are little in numbers, yet on this day we crushed an attack by their Legion. Garai is not such a fool that this was merely unfortunate, this is most unsettling.?[/b] Donovan said, as he tugged lightly on his beard. [b]?Let us return and check with Felix. Though it appears to be a tactical victory for us we should get the official report.?[/b] Donovan nodded to his companion, as he grabbed hold of her side and leaped up onto her back. He settled himself in and gave his faithful dragon a light back and forth pat on the back of her neck. [b]?Adria, let?s go!?[/b] Donovan yelled as the dragon spread it?s massive wings and swooped down from their mountaintop position. As they descended, the final remnants of the [color=red]Empire[/color]?s Legion could be seen scattering from the mere sight of the grandiose dragon. The sight of one of the five dragon riders of the [color=blue]Sapiens[/color] Resistance also caught the eye of another under the service of Emperor Garai. [center]* * * * *[/center] A laugh came from a thin yet muscular soldier from the opposite side of the field. He stood, adorned in black armor with the golden crests of the Empire on his breastplate. With his fingers he swiped away a piece of his long black hair from his eyes and motioned with his hand for a group of particular soldiers to accompany him away from the battlefield. [b]?I?m sure that?s been plenty of time. Can?t say I?m too pleased with Garai sacrificing a number of my men for this but we have enough to spare I suppose,? [/b]the man said as he sheathed an unusually long Katana style sword by his side. Soldiers dressed in the recognizable armor of the Legion followed their commander as he climbed atop his horse. [b]?But sir! What of the wounded??[/b] asked a soldier, trying to help one of his own who sustained a serious wound to his torso. [b]?Leave anyone that cannot walk on their own. We must make haste back to the capital. The small force we attacked with today should have caused enough of a suspicion for Wyvern reinforcements to keep the guard around the mountain area tight. If Titus and his men have not made ample use of the diversion we created to steal the scroll then it is of no fault of mine.? [/b] [b]?But sir! We cannot leave our own behind!?[/b] The second plea was met with a swift draw of the Legion Commander?s blade and a thrust right above the unsuspecting soldier?s collarbone. Blood trickled, then streamed down the blade as it was pulled out and promptly cleaned using the clothing beneath the armor of the murdered soldier. The other soldiers watched in horror as their temperamental commander slain one of their own without hesitation. [b]?Does anyone else have any qualms about leaving anyone behind??[/b] [b]?No Commander Deimos!?[/b] was the cohesive response. Commander Deimos nodded and smiled slyly with satisfaction as he flew off with his battalion following behind. [center]* * * * *[/center] Donovan landed beside the mountain base of the [color=blue]Sapiens[/color] Resistance and dismounted from his dragon to speak with the Garrison Lieutenant, Felix Orion. Felix stood tall and was rather large, mostly with muscle however. His beard was as thick as the leaves on a small tree and his eyes were sturdy and focused, the calling card of a true soldier. He was years older than Donovan, yet his lower position never once caused him to feel malice or discontent. Felix was all about doing his duty, and cared very little about glory. [b]?Felix, what have you gathered??[/b] Donovan asked, as he pulled the gauntlets from his hands and stuffed them into his belt. [b]?Commander, it is as you probably noticed from your position. The Legion was pushed back and minor damage was sustained to the base?s gate. We are still in possession of [color=purple]Beliarr[/color], and as long as I have anything to say about it we will not lose it so easily!?[/b] Felix exclaimed, standing at attention while his battle axe reflected bits and pieces of the sunlight beaming down from the sun?s lingering position towards it?s setting. [b]?While that is good news, I fear there was more to this attack then meets the eye. The inner city guard was light but the base?s inner gates themselves were astutely watched over. Despite this, it?s possible that the false anticipation of reinforcements from the [color=red]Empire[/color] was part of a ploy to concentrate a great amount of force on breaching the inner city. Have you received word from Kraus??[/b] [b]?Come to think of it, no. What you say is a cause for concern, sir. Allow me to go and check on things. You can bring Adriana back to the falls.?[/b] Felix said in an assuring tone. [b]?I will come with you, Felix. It will be thanks to my oversight of this possibility if this scenario is indeed truth.?[/b] Donovan said, already leading the way. Felix followed as Adriana stood guard outside of the gate. [i]?Hm, and how I was hoping I?d get some exercise today. Ciela is probably having the time of her life on the western coast.? [/i]Adriana thought to herself as she stretched out her wings a bit more trying to create the illusion of getting a work out. [center]* * * * *[/center] Halfway into the tunnel leading to the inner city gates, Donovan and Felix were greeted with blood emblazoned guards along with many other clear signs of a break in. Felix rushed inside as Donovan knelt by a couple of the guards, checking to see if there was a chance they would still be alive. Negatives on the vital signs were the general response, as he gritted his teeth in an attempt to hold back his anger toward himself. [b]?Commander! It?s Kraus!?[/b] the voice of Felix echoed through the first corridor. Donovan ran to Felix?s position to see another high-ranking officer of the [color=blue]Sapiens[/color] Resistance in Lieutenant Kraus Balder on the floor surrounded in a pool of his own blood. Donovan knelt before him and lifted his head slightly. Felix watched on as he pulled a dagger out of Kraus?s side and applied pressure to it immediately with a thick sheet. [b]?Kraus! What happened??[/b] Donovan pleaded, trying not to move his head too much. Kraus reached his hand up to Donovan?s head but could barely speak coherently. It was clear seconds afterwards that his wounds were much too serious for him to survive. Donovan looked over to Felix who had given up already on keeping the wound closed. Donovan looked back down and noticed Kraus?s head slumped in his arms. [b]?I should have known this would happen?there was no way Garai would have been so foolish as to not have a plan behind this faux attack.?[/b] Donovan exclaimed in a disdainful tone. He closed his fallen ally?s eyes with his fingers and commenced to recite a short prayer for him. [center][I] Pater noster, qui es in caelis, Sanctificetur nomen tuum. Adveniat regnum tuum. Fiat voluntas tua, Sicut in caelo et in terra. Panem nostrum quotidianum da nobis hodie. Et dimitte nobis debita nostra, Sicut et nos dimittimus debitoribus nostris. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem: Sed libera nos a malo. Amen. [/I][/center] [b]?Sir, this is of no fault of yours! Garai and he alone is to blame for all the atrocities that have befallen this land. This should be no different. If I may, however??[/b] Felix began to say, before stopping in order to ask Donovan?s permission to ask him a question. Donovan nodded his head, as he stood straight once again. [b]?What would the purpose of breaking into the inner city be? What was the Legion looking for??[/b] [b]?I know not, it is a mystery to me as well.?[/b] Donovan answered, as he began to walk toward the residential area of the city. Felix followed as they walked through the open gates leading to the city within the mountain that served as the base of operations for the [color=blue]Sapiens[/color] Resistance. It was more like a town then a city, as much an ample area for living normal lives as it was a headquarters for offensive and defensive tactics. [b]?Sir Donovan! Sir Felix! You?ve come!?[/b] an elderly female citizen screamed as she ran toward them. [b]?Tell me, what has happened? Did the Legion attack the people?? [/b]Donovan asked. The women shook her head and struggled to catch her breath. Her vocal chords shook with signs of trepidation, clearly caused by the sudden break in. [b]?They killed nobody my lord, but they sacked the vaults and held us at bay with soldiers. We?re all sorry my lord, there was nothing we could do!?[/b] she cried as she wavered in her stance. Felix rushed to catch her and keep her steady. [b]?Please, you?ve nothing to apologize for. Any of you! You did the right thing, your lives come before any possessions??[/b] Those words reached more then just the citizens, as the somewhat deep and official sounding voice of a female came from the direction of the vault. It was the type of voice that seemed to command as much as it allured. [b]?That may be true, Donovan?but the [i]possession[/i] they took is quite important. I fear this will cause much trouble for both resistances in the near future,?[/b] came a female voice, cutting off Donovan before he could finish his sentence. Donovan and Felix looked toward the top of the stairs that served as the entrance to the city vault to see a well-fit woman with ear-length dark brown hair. She was dressed lightly, but in cloth and chain mail. One look could tell that she wasn?t a citizen, but a member of the resistance as well. [b]?Lucia!?[/b] Donovan exclaimed, surprised to see her standing there. [b]?I came in through the back tunnel when I saw a unit from the Legion keeping watch outside the gate. I assumed they had already breached and decided to sneak in to see what I could do. Turns out I was too late, and found that the Uroboros Scroll was missing.?[/b] Lucia said, leaping off the stairs to the floor. Her words hit Donovan hard as he began to curse himself for not realizing that the scroll would be the ideal target for a breaking in tactic. [b]?Sir, forgive me for asking. It is unfamiliar to me what this Uroboros Scroll is. What is its importance??[/b] Felix asked, generally perplexed. Donovan sighed deeply and turned himself toward the entrance. [b]?The one advantage the [color=blue]Sapiens[/color] and the [color=blue]Validus[/color] have had all these years against the Empire were the preservation of the last ten Dragons in [color=green]Grateus[/color]. Though there are nine left, due to death of Raiden a short time ago. In any case, it was the Uroboros Scroll that contained the ancient text that was used to create bonds of magic between a dragon and it?s rider. Anyone who can learn the text and master it could possibly take command of a dragon in addition to obtaining the magic related to the dragons.?[/b] Donovan explained, as he began to recall briefly his time learning the text so he could understand Adriana as well as be recognized by her. [b]?Yes, it looks like Garai?s plan is to take our advantage out right from under us and turn it into our disadvantage. Can?t say it?s not a smart move, but it?s a real bad one for us.?[/b] Lucia added. [b]?Indeed it is.?[/b] Donovan began to say, as he turned his head toward Felix. [b]?Felix! Send word to the [color=blue]Validus[/color], and send for the other riders to return here.?[/b] [b]?Yes, Commander!?[/b] [/font]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkslategray]While the other Knight pilots lay waste to the mechs that the main ship sent out, Leon tried to find himself an opening to get inside the assault and damage the source. He teared through enemy mechs with swift slashes, as he seemed almost impressed at how astute the mechs were at protecting their main vessel. [b]"Hm, if only these units were more amply built and stocked they might actually serve as decent defensive mechs. Though it doesn't really matter, they'll never be able to outrun Altair!"[/b] Leon proclaimed as he tore through 3 units with one slash of his beam sabre. From the view of the other Knight pilots it seemed like only a swift flash of lightning. Leon saw flares and debris falling from the position of the nearest Knight to him, which was Alex's Ares. He grinned a bit, as he dodges blows from more enemy mechs. As he took them out he opened up a link with Alex. [b]"Mighty fine shooting there Captain, it's obvious they aren't putting up much of a resistance. What say we take this to the next level?"[/b] Leon said, implying that it would be best to combine their efforts on attacking the deployment sections of the main vessel. [b]"Min still has to finish, once we find out more about it's capabilities and facilities we will know how to handle it."[/b] Alex answered, turning her vocal focus subtly over to Min as she finished her sentence. Leon and Alex both noticed the QUESTA lagging a bit as the Aibou stayed within it's range to fend off oncoming units. [b]"Yeah yeah...everything is practically done...just, just a little bit more..."[/b] Min said between huffs. Leon raised an eyebrow as he noticed Min's vital sign read outs on the panel of Altair where the other Knight Pilot's were displayed. Leon turned Altair toward QUESTA, though from their distance it was difficult to make anything out without the flashes and destructive actions between the drone mechs and Mari's Aibou. [b]"Min, is everything alright?"[/b] Leon said, in a concerned tone. [b]"Yes! Everything is fine, just give me another minute or two!"[/b] Min replied, clearly frustrated. [b]"That's not what I mean!"[/b] Leon continued, before noticing two red flashes approaching the QUESTA from it's seven o'clock. He narrowed his eyes and noticed Mari busy with groups of units coming at her in full force. Aibou seemed to disptach them with ease using strong surges of electricity. Leon took notice to the next closest Knight which was James's Paladin. [b]"James! To QUESTA's seven, two disruptor bogeys!"[/b] James seemed to snap to as he quickly turned his attention to the scanners. He almost seemed startled as he dodged away from his own bogey and took it out. James tried to make his way toward the aforementioned position but was stopped by 3 more, as he began to fight them off. [b]"S..sir! I'm sorry, I'll be there as soon as I get rid of these bums!"[/b] James replied, swinging his trusty Knightsabre infront of him and ripping through one of the units. He could here Fort's voice in his head at that moment going [i]"Stop saying Sir, dammit!"[/i]. Leon gritted his teeth as he activated two extra boosters on Altair's upper back. Another unit came for him but he grabbed it's head with Altair's hand and tossed it aside roughly as he sped off at the quickest speed Altair could reach without going into beserk mode. Min wiped a drop of sweat from her head as the necessary decoding was to finish in another 30 seconds. She turned her head slightly and took notice to her scanners which showed the red blips practically on her tail. [b]"Crap! Where in the hell did they come from! That's the opposite direction from where the ship is!"[/b] Min said as she tapped her fingers impatiently on her panel waiting for the information to finish. [b]"Alright! I took care of..."[/b] James began to say as he finished off the last two, but his sentence was stopped as he saw Altair zip by him and with a pair of vicious slashes, take out the two disruptor units meters before they reached QUESTA. [b]"Damn disruptor units, they were going to try and short circuit QUESTA's systems. Whoever sent them, is definitly smarter then we expected. So much for a sweet and simple mission."[/b] Leon said, as he retracted the boosters. [b]"Leon...?"[/b] Min said, glancing behind her and then at her scanners, noticing the blips had dissapeared. [b]"W..whoa! That was awesome! How did you get there so fast!?"[/b] James said, still surprised at how quickly Altair made it from it's pervious position to theirs. James heard a laugh over the intercom, and recognized it. [b]"You've never seen Altair in action before have you?"[/b] Fort's voice said. James just shook his head, not realizing at the time that without a video feed his gestures could not be seen. [b]"Wow, the Altair and the Equinox are seriously bad ass."[/b] James said, referring to the mechs he had already seen up close. [b]"The Paladin has plenty of potential James, it is an excellent mech as well. We all have out areas of expertise, keep training and you'll begin to clearly notice yours."[/b] Alex's voice said, which prompted another "stand at attention" kind of reaction from James. [b]"Y, yes ma'am! Thank you."[/b] James said, as the silent chorus of heads shaking could be heard from the other Knight pilots. The barrage of mechs seemed to die down slightly as the information QUESTA has been downloading finally finished. [b]"Menerva, how's that information coming?"[/b] Leon asked, as he stood infront of QUESTA, his beam sabre still on full power. [b]"Finished...i'll send it over to everyone in a few seconds."[/b] Min said, as she fixed her hair away from her face. [center]* * * * *[/center][/color] OOC: Gavin, judging from your sign-up I assumed James was like the "new member" of the Knights so hope I portrayed him properly. [/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma]Don't use your neighbor's water and hose without asking, and don't take their snow shovels from their back deck and not give them back. Yeah, that's about it. lol But yeah, when it comes to co-existing with your new neighbors and what not, just don't instigate anything or purposely pick a fight or whatnot. People are typically less then enthusiastic about going out of their way to start up trouble with someone simply because they just moved in. Of course this depends on what kind of neighborhood it is, but I wouldn't worry too much about that. Packing and unloading will probably be more of a problem than that will be.[/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma]I think ya mean Dane Cook. But yeah, he's quite funny. I wanted to get some tickets to his Vicious Circle tour while he was here at MSG, but alas we did not consider how long in advance we should have ordered in order to get even decent seats. He's up there as one of my favorite comedians, and Vicious Circle is just a halarious show. Unlike many other comedians that I've seen live though, it's like a whole different experience from seeing him on the screen. He interacts with the crowd a lot and it's really a better experience then just watching him on TV or whatnot.[/FONT]