TheResplendent

[FONT="Tahoma"]*waves hands and makes a "poof" noise* the thread is up :). Everyone take charge of your own introduction posts as your character arrives at the base by whatever means and meet up at the ship. After that, our first mission shall be revealed.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"][center][img]http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/70/starshiprl7.jpg[/img] [size=1]Banner by SunfallE[/size][/center] [color=darkslategray][u][b]Year 3027, Narisyan Armed Forces Base, General Rakon’s Office[/b][/u] [b]”Your expedition leaves in four hours, Colonel. I thought it would be necessary to remind you that while the military’s involvement in this is of great importance, you’ll have to remember that despite being ranking officer you don’t call all the shots. Despite my personal feelings, the CIF is very adamant about keeping your chain of command deviations in mind despite your qualifications. I don’t think they’ll ever let you live down the “Seichzen Incident” either…regardless of how much we’ve beaten that dead horse over the years.”[/b] Colonel DeSouza stood at attention during the entirety of General Rakon’s pre-launch speech. He was made aware long ago that there would be a separate expedition leader appointed to the crew, but part of the agreement on the side of the military was that three officers be appointed under the direct authority of Colonel Marcus DeSouza. He was less than thrilled with the idea of having someone in a higher position of authority as him, but it didn’t come as a shock either. Not only was the military involvement to be downplayed drastically from what the normal standards for such a mission would be, but doubts still lingered in the back of the CIF’s heads about Marcus’s ability to objectively lead a full team ever since his major past admonishments. [b]”Sir, if I may. You’ve already informed me that she’s a civilian, but what actual credentials does she have?”[/b] Marcus asked, keeping his focus straight-forward. [b]”Dr. Henderson is an acclaimed and certified expert in the field of ancient civilizations and has extensive experience with space expeditions. Her father is Patrick Henderson.”[/b] General Rakon replied, flipping through the file for Brianna Henderson. [b]”Patrick Henderson’s daughter? I remember seeing her in the papers a few times with her father. Who would have thought she had progressed as far as the CIF’s current infatuation.”[/b] General Rakon eyed Marcus briefly looking up from the files in front of him. [b]”In any case, you two will have to learn to get along if this is to be a success. Remember to respect her command. It’s imperative for this expedition to not be under sole military jurisdiction. It was the only way this crew could even be put together in accordance to international agreements.”[/b] [b]”Of course sir, I assure you everything will be fine.”[/b] Marcus assured his commanding officer. Rakon nodded back in acknowledgement and proceeded to see him out of the office. [center]* * * * *[/center] As the door opened, Marcus noticed a thin framed redheaded woman standing to the left of the door. She nodded to the uniformed officer who had escorted her and he took his leave. Marcus observed as General Rakon walked up to the woman and extended his hand to shake hers. [b]”Colonel, this is Kendra Erikson, she’ll be the engineer and co-pilot for the Argo Navis.”[/b] General Rakon introduced them. [b]”Kendra? Is that really you?”[/b] Marcus asked, extending his hand with a curious gaze. She took his hand and smiled back. [b]”Marcus…I mean, Colonel. It’s good to see you again…sir.”[/b] she replied, tripping a bit over how she should address him. General Rakon switched his focus back and forth on the two a bit befuddled. [b]”You two know each other?”[/b] he inquired. Marcus cleared his throat, keeping his hands clasped behind his back, [b]”Ms. Erickson and I worked together a few years ago aboard the Aquila. If I’m not mistaken I believe that was your last year in service.”[/b] Marcus explained, turning his attention back to Kendra toward the end. Kendra nodded, [b]”It was, since then it’s been strictly engineering work with some test flights here and there.”[/b] [b]”Well, you two can proceed down to the ship bay. Dr. Henderson should be waiting there already. The rest of your crew should be arriving anytime now, so when they arrive be sure to get well acquainted.”[/b] Rakon said, saluting the two and seeing them off. [center]* * * * *[/center] Marcus and Kendra took their leave and walked down the hallway toward the large security coded double doors leading to the entrance to the docking area. Marcus swiped his I.D card and passed the retina scan. Marcus felt at ease at seeing a familiar face, not only a familiar one but also a trustworthy one. [I]’She still looks as beautiful as she did back then.’[/I] he thought to himself as the two passed through the first set of security doors. Not that it really made much of a difference. To Marcus, there were no redeemable features a person could have if they were incompetent at what they were appointed to do. He was an easy-going guy most of the time in terms of his personality, and enjoyed joking around with people as opposed to being serious all the time. As time went on since the “Seichzen Incident”, there have been remnants of a burdensome sentiment looming over Marcus in the eyes of the governmental branch of the CIF. Marcus and Kendra approached the last security door as Marcus once again did what was needed to gain access. Kendra looked over at Marcus and turned back, taking some strands of hair out of her eyes. [b]”They told me the commanding officer of the crew would be a Colonel from the Narisyan army. I have to admit I didn’t expect to see you.”[/b] Kendra mentioned, as they walked through the double doors. [b]”They promoted me upon appointing me to this expedition, reluctantly I’m sure. Even though the military has always been on my side, the higher ups in the government have seen fit to tag me with their uncertainties.”[/b] Marcus explained. [b]”I’ve heard…because of what happened in Seichzen, right?”[/b] Kendra asked, but was met with Marcus’s silence. She turned her attention back forward and in a way thought that asking that was probably unnecessary. [b]”It’s in the past…I mean they have to still have some kind of trust for me if they’ve ultimately agreed with the military’s recommendation to appoint me as commanding officer, right?”[/b] Marcus asked rhetorically and optimistically, cracking a sly grin on his face clearly showing disregard for what the CIF politicians thought of him. The two crew members reached the dock where the Argo Navis is located and passed by with greetings from mechanics and assistants on their way to the entrance ramp of the ship. They were able to hear a stern female voice giving out orders to certain mechanics and reading off things for a checklist to herself. A bit further and they could see her observing the surroundings of the ship with a CCB (computerized clip board) in hand. She stood at a rather short five feet even, but her posture was taut. Marcus and Kendra stood beside on another in the entryway to the ship and observed a bit before calling her attention. Marcus cleared his throat and proceeded to speak, [b]”I take it you’re Dr. Henderson.”[/b] She looked up from her CCB and eyed Marcus firmly. She lightened her expression slightly and walked over to the two. [b]”Yes, I am Brianna Henderson. You must be Kendra Erickson, and Colonel Marcus DeSouza. A pleasure to meet you both.”[/b] she said, extending her hand to shake both of theirs. [b]”I must apologize but I’m just finishing up here, so I’ll be with you in just a few moments.”[/b] Brianna walked back and continued with the task she had been in the middle of. Marcus turned his body to face outside of the ship and then at his watch to see that it was close to three hours to launch time. [b][I]’Well…she doesn’t seem so bad.’[/b][/I] he thought to himself, a bit unsure of how to judge their expedition leader at that moment. He placed his bags down for the moment and took a stretch as he waited for the other members of the crew to arrive. [/FONT][/color]

[quote name='Retribution'][size=1]Thank you for making a hasty generalization without understanding my point. My point was that we should be attentive to all human suffering, not just that which is most published. We shouldn't forget a story just because it falls off the front page. As it stands now, we have hipster-causes people like to join. Save New Orleans! Save Darfur! But as soon as it falls out of print, people get on with their lives and start worrying about much smaller issues. I mean, I understand it's only natural to forget about unpublished stories. Out of sight, out of mind so the saying goes. But I'm saying we should resist this and remember that which is forgotten by the mainstream media.[/size][/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]As much as I get what you're probably trying to say, what you are coming off as saying is that only the most massive tragedies with high casualties should be paid extensive attention. That's why you are being misunderstood, unless of course that IS what you are trying to say. To react to this by bringing up greater tragedies and then stating how much worse they are as a reason to not lament over this one is pretty silly. Again before you overreact I remind you that I am not accusing you of doing this, merely stating that as truth as it relates to the situation. As time goes on, we move on, we get over, we forget, we forgive. Our progression is much more then just simple physical changes that come with age. We can't dwell on tragedies in the past forever, the same way we won't be dwelling on this one in the future. But as they are announced now as current events, it's the bulk of damage and the time of most sorrow for those affected either directly or indirectly. So it's understandable to be upset regardless of whether or not it pales in comparison to another time in history. It's true that many of these events are fleeting in mind for us, but it is in fact human nature. The same way it's human nature to sympathize, and everyone is different so the degree to how much we sympathize will vary. It doesn't mean people are forgetting things, or comparing things. I can tell you that when 9/11 happened, I did not sit down and start comparing it to times in the past or present where there were greater casualty counts and then go "Oh, well it isn't so bad then!". More goes into defining a true time of turmoil then simply people being killed. But this isn't a game of what tragedy can top what. Thinking of it that way is pretty morbid. Dependant on whose POV you are looking at it from, a murder of a single person in the streets can be a bigger tragedy then victims of an earthquake. Don't live your life thinking about all the mass murders in history and lamenting for the sake of a point, you are right...people get on with their lives, as should you. Anyway, that's my two cents. You've already clarified yourself, but you'll have to forgive me for wanting to add in my perspective. If it helps, think of everything I said as a general statement toward anyone that may share those types of aforementioned feelings.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Diplo >.>, dunno what you're talking about. :p Heh, but anyway. We didn't have the original design of the ship's interior in mind when we decided on the ship. We would rather that also be a part of the creativity of our participants. But to those who ARE famliar with the interior, it's much the same size, not large but at the same time seemingly more than accomodating for the ten of us. The food we set off with will be pretty basic, rations, etc. Food for later will become an obvious solution in time. Look for the thread to be up between tonight and tomorrow evening :). [b]Edit:[/b] In answer to your question about transport, for long range needs yes. But obviously if we are able to walk plain off the ship like if we are on a planet, it won't be necessary ;P.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Heh, I guess everyone has their own differential views on the way i decided to end the story ;P. But I am glad you too were captivated enough to want to read more, and yes I do very fully intend on elaborating and going deeper into many aspects of the story when i write up more of it. As for the protagonist issue, this is actually the frist time i've wrote with that type of character as a focus (plain male, wife and kid, etc) so it was something new to me to work with, lol. But yeah i do realize that there isn't much originality there, it was just something i wanted to take the opportunity to try out. And believe me, i'm all for deep and strong female characters, I mean The Boss IS one of my all time favorite video game characters ever :p. Heh, but in any case...yes Jenna's role will be portrayed as much more prominent. Glad you enjoyed it overall.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"][b]10[/b] - Am I a star or an ocean? Totally found the meow meow: [url]http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=43047[/url] Your welcome [i]White![/i] >.>[/FONT]

[quote name='SunfallE'][COLOR="goldenrod"]I've recently become addicted to this show. With its cute and ditzy opening sequence to Konata and all her funny ways of playing video games instead of doing homework. I finish one episode and just can't help but start the next. Especially after watching number six. Oh that was just too funny with the Inital D reference and Kotana setting it up for the other girl to [spoiler]slip on the soap in the bath while teasing the other one since they didn't get hit on by guys while they were at the beach.[/spoiler] The whole series just cracks me up. Even the ever so serious conversations about how to eat and cook certain foods. lol And one other thing... It's one hundred percent BKstyles fault for introducing me to this show. I just can't get enough of it.:catgirl:[/COLOR][/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]Lies! If i recall I was the one warning you about going on passed episode 1 :p. Anyway, another reason why Konata rules: She plays a tank in her MMO :). Dunno, I was going over a mental list of why she rules a couple of days ago...damn this show has really gotten to me hasnt it... [/FONT]

[quote name='Keyblade Wielder'][SIZE="1"][COLOR="DarkSlateBlue"]I'll go after Shy, if nobody minds. ^w^[/COLOR][/SIZE][/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]Request granted :p. Good post Shy, good stuff. Looks like we await the Sunflowers once again.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]With only Allamorph needing to finish his sign up, I would like to take this opportunity to announce that sign ups are now [b]closed[/b] since we have an ample amount of them to make our decisions. Look for the underground thread soon which will include the acceptance list and other important information.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Heh, Indeed length was the culprit here, but we had to ensure that things wouldn't be too long so the judges would either feel the need to skim through or something of that nature. I purposely left it at a cliffhanger, hoping that there would be an appreciation for the way I had wrote the story as an excerpt with indications toward possible pasts and futures that lead up to / will follow the posted part respectively. I do actually intend on continuing the story as i'm rather fond of the idea. I'm glad you enjoyed it Allamorph (as well as SunfallE's, hers was a good read as well). I very much want to avoid giving off the wrong idea here, and I certainly don't want to sound ungreatful or anything of the sort, but I don't quite see support for your issue with my "wordiness". It's not that i'm [i]not[/i] willing to admit that I can be wordy at times, but it seems the issue your alluding to is more about an idea being conveyed in more words then necessary to the minimum required. I do like going into detail with certain descriptions but I had actually felt that because of the length I didn't really do as good of a job with that as I would usually. So it's odd for me to read that you thought i went overboard, lol. I am very glad to hear that i'm not being compared to Mitch >.>, lol. The difference between us (Mitch and myself that is) is that while I may have an extensive vocabulary, i don't feel the need to flaunt it every other word of every sentence to try and create a distraction. I thought my story was a rather easy read though in terms of vocabulary. Also in reference to whether our formats will play a part in judgement, it's up to the judges themselves but I included in the first post what would be most important. [quote name='BKstyles][font=tahoma']They will be judged on how well they represent the genre, their creativity, and overall how well written their story is.[/font][/quote] With possible contraversial perspectives about my response to your critisism, despite sincerely having no ill will in mind, I figure i'd leave off with something that would be unmistakably positive ;P. I very much appreciate your ability to judge my story from a reader's POV in addition to a technical POV. As in grasping the story itself and finding points that interested you enough to want to keep reading, that is what I look for the most in my stories when I write them. For the reader to be able to immerse themselves in the story itself.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Tis quite unfortunate, but I am allergic to most fruits. Watermelon being the absolute worst. If i take a bite out of watermelon, my gums and throat swell up and it's really quite an annoyance. It would be easier to simply name the fruits i'm NOT allergic to, those being apples, grapes, and bananas. Oranges are second worst next to watermelon, however I still eat pineapple and strawberries despite being slightly allergic to those. I like em too much, what can I say. In any case, i am quite thankful for my allergies not translating to smoothies as I love getting smoothies at dunkin donuts. Mango and strawberry especially. I happen to like Lychee very much too, and luckily i don't have a noticeable reaction to those as well. [/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"][center][b][u][size=3]Alpha and Omega[/size][/b][/u][/center] [i]Dear Rachel, It’s been two years and three months since the Velpecula has departed, we’ve come out of hyperspace after eight hours of agonizing confinement to our quarters due to some repairs going on around the ship. Though I suppose the best thing about it has been being able to write this letter. How is Erica doing? I’m sure she is doing well. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss the both of you. The crew has been great though…well, for the most part. Sometimes I question why some of these “experts” are called just that. They seem to do a lot more talking than anything else, talking that doesn’t really make sense to me. Anyway…this was our final leap. In a few hours we should be in orbit of Alpha Delphinus, it’ll serve as our base point for making the journey into the Summer Triangle. If the gate is really in there, we’ll find it. The future of the human race depends on it. The other ships should already be in surrounding locations, today will mark our victory day…but once the gate is found, we still have to find a way to activate it and see what’s on the other side. It may still be a couple of years before we are allowed to return. But keep your head up, and keep us in your thoughts and prayers. We will return with the solution to the Vespa threat. Then, I can hold you and my baby girl in my arms and finally live in peace. Anyway, I’ve enclosed a few more pictures of the ship and some pretty awesome sights in space. I love you both with all my heart. [right]Sincerely, with love Benjamin.[/i][/right] [center]* * * * *[/center] The ship known as the Velpecula, one of Earth’s greatest and last hopes, had emerged from its final leap through hyperspace. They’ve reached their destination of the northern most point in the known galaxy, where the last hope for human survival lay. It was ten years ago, the threat of the Vespa became known. They were believed to be demons of some sort…but in reality, the Vespas were all too alike to humans not only in physical form, but mentally as well. Yet their capabilities far surpassed what we thought could ever be possible. Considering how far the human race has come, with the ability to travel the vast reaches of space with amazing technology, it still seemed like we have yet to reach the top of the food chain. The Vespas made contact with our geocentric orbiting station known as Lacerta Space Station. Their message was short and to the point, but above all else chilling to the bone. A threat upon our people, followed up with an undeniable back up to their word in the form of one of the their ships leaving Lacerta Space Station as nothing more then orbiting debris. The higher ups in each of the major governments were in panic just as much as the people were. Eventually, after several futile attempts to match the Vespas in strength, portions of Earth were used as further examples of their power. Parts of the Middle East, Africa, the states of the central United States and eastern Russia were all attacked from space and left in ruin. There wasn’t anymore doubt that there was no choice but to act in accordance to the preservation of human life. Field experts have long since studied the vastness of space, and many stars and constellations were known to man since far back in history. But this time of impending ruin for humans prompted the revealing of something meant to be kept secret. Dr. Victor Raskin, an astrologist and scientist brought to the attention of the Russian government about a message they had decoded from the findings of an ancient relic believed to have fallen from space over the course of thousands of years. It spoke of a threat on a galactic level, and the means of survival for certain life forms, including carbon based life forms. The message was near impossible to read completely, but the language it was written in could be decoded far enough to discover that there was more then meets the eye to the space asterism known as the Summer Triangle. [center]* * * * *[/center] [b]”Ben! Are you awake?”[/b] the sound of a female voice came, piercing through the closed door of Benjamin Crux’s living quarter. Ben turned his head from his laying down position toward the door. He certainly wished he could sleep, but he was far too anxious from nearly eight hours of what seemed like captivity on his own ship. He slowly got to his feet and waddled over to the door while running his fingers through his short yet messy dark brown hair and tossing on his uniform jacket, leaving it open. He put in his five-digit code into the keypad next to the door and opened it. He leaned against the doorway and focused his eyes on the tanned brunette standing in front of him, dressed in a light tank top and black shorts. [b]”Of course I’m awake, as if I could even get to sleep right now.”[/b] Ben finally answered, in a morose tone of voice. The woman smiled a bit, not really taking Ben seriously and just gave him a playful punch in the shoulder. [b]”Andarc says it’s ok for us to come out now, the repairs are mostly done but the rest will have to wait in any case. Though I’d come and retrieve you from your ward of tedium.”[/b] she said, giving him a bit of a sarcastic smile. [b]”Jenna…you…really have no idea how bad it was.”[/b] Ben answered. He grabbed his watch from the desk next to him and walked out beside his colleague. The halls of the Velpecula resembled something out of a sci-fi movie. Who knew that when the human race would actually come to the point where they would be flying around space that the ship design wouldn’t deviate much from popular ideas. Still, it was calming with the cool color scheme mixed with the silence and beauty of space just a glance out the window. If anyone enjoyed the peacefulness of gazing at the stars from the ground to sooth themselves, this was practically a Nirvana for the mind and soul. The two walked down several corridors speaking about several topics. Their roles aboard the ship were quite similar. Amongst the scientists, astrologists, military personnel, ship crew, mechanics, etc…they were the youngest stargazers aboard any of the six ships that were launched. Showing great promise and knowledge in the study of the stars and ancient space relics and phenomena in past symposiums and showcasing irrefutable proof of great findings that not even top scientists could interpret, Benjamin Crux and Jenna Meliana were chosen as representatives of the United Nations as part of the team to ensure a way to activate the gate within the Triangle. [b]”Hey, you hungry? I know you probably haven’t eaten anything for a while.”[/b] Jenna asked, prompted by her own growling stomach. [b]”I am starving, actually. So food sounds like a good vote to me.”[/b] Ben answered with haste, already turning at the end of the corridor toward the cafeteria area. [center]* * * * *[/center] The bridge of the ship was indeed grand; the Velpecula was the flagship of the fleet after all. The captain of the ship, Sigurd Lyle, engaged in last minute planning and detailing with his assistants and crew. Sitting around a rather oversized oval shaped table that was primarily used for important discussion, they went over the intended plan. [b]”Alpha Delphinus is within view now gentlemen, we are closest to the vertex Altair of the Summer Triangle, located within the constellation Aquila. Once the other ships are in position, we are to head into the Triangle and search the primary coordinates listed in the ship’s database. The Horologium will enter from the vertex Vega located within Lyra and rendezvous with the Pegasus near the Ring Nebula. The Hydra and The Pyxis will enter from vertex Deneb located within Cygnus. The Dorado is of course, our own back up. They should be arriving within the hour.”[/b] Captain Lyle spoke, as he pointed out the positions and entry points in the holographic map in the center of the conference table. [b]”Captain, we’re receiving an incoming transmission from the Horologium, it’s Captain Grace’s identification code.”[/b] a tall dark haired woman in uniform alerted. Captain Lyle nodded and waved his arm, [b]”Patch him through, Tannith.”[/b] The vice-captain nodded her head in acknowledgement and proceeded to bring the captain of the Horologium on the main screen. The image came in with some heavy static, with bit and pieces of the sound coming through making words barely coherent. [b]”…gium…i….pl……urgent….nder….tack……ship….uit…”[/b] the transmission cut off seconds afterwards. The bridge stood at attention and stared at the screen in a mutual feeling of shock. Captain Lyle rushed to the control panel and tried to re-patch the transmission to no avail. [b]”Captain Grace, answer me! What’s going on!?”[/b] Silence was the only thing that graced from the other side. A commotion arouse from the room as officers and crewmen scattered to the call of multiple alerts from the control panels. [b]”Captain! The Horologium…it’s been destroyed!”[/b] came the hysterical voice of one of the navigators. Personnel rushed to the radar that indicated the questionable existence of what once was the ship Horologium. Two non-earth ships were in the vicinity of the Vega rendezvous according to the radar, presumably the ones responsible for what was understood to be an all out attack on the Velpecula’s sister ship. [b]”Identify them immediately!”[/b] demanded the stern captain. The command prompted another rush in action as everyone manning a chair in front of the control panel made identifying the ships top priority. It was only a few moments later when the radar began to show signs of similar ships within the vicinity of the Velpecula. Captain Lyle intended to bring up a visual on the screen to give them a closer view, but it wasn’t long before a communication channel was opened up, an unknown identification code, but it was no matter as a holographic image was put up on the conference table seconds after the channel was established. [b]”Who authorized the channel to be opened!?”[/b] the captain furiously inquired. [b]”N…nobody, captain! It…it came through on it’s own!”[/b] came a bemused response. Everyone turned their attention to the image in the hologram. The atmosphere in the room changed, and if fear had a scent it would have filled the air like an overfilling garbage dump. The faces on everyone froze and grew pale, as the only one brave enough to approach the table was Captain Sigurd Lyle himself. [b]”You…you sons of bitches.”[/b] he said, seething under his breath. He stared down the image of a tall and lanky humanoid like figure. It had shoulder length pale blond hair and its body appeared as if it was drained by some force, veins and bones were visible through the flesh. If the figure had been any thinner its bones would have protruded clear through the skin. Its eyes sank deep within its head and glowed a pale green, almost like emitting a light to overcome all in its sights. The figure tilted its head to the side and his expression remained listless as he began to articulate, [b]”We…cannot…allow…you…to…reach…the…Triangulum…Gate…”[/b] the remnants of the sound of his voice creeped underneath the skin of everyone within range. The hairs on the back of their necks stood at attention and goose bumps overcame their skin. Before anything else could be said on either side, the radar picked up sign of smaller aircrafts exiting out the backs of two of the mother ships and headed for the location of the Vepecula. [b]”Dammit, sound the alert! Get every pilot in a fighter jet out there and buy us some time. We have no choice, full speed into the Summer Triangle now!”[/b] commanded the dedicated captain. [center]* * * * *[/center] Ben and Jenna sat across one another in the cafeteria, surrounded by others eating an early dinner. They continued to chat with one another between bites and sips. [b]”Ben…how old is Erica now?”[/b] Jenna asked, wanting to speak on a more personal level as a change of pace. Ben took another bite of his roast beef sandwich before answering. [b]”She’s turning five next month. Another birthday I’m going to miss…”[/b] Ben said, keeping his focus straight ahead not necessarily looking at anything in particular. Jenna’s expression lightened a bit and she reached her hand over to his. [b]”Don’t worry…we’re so close. You’ll see them again, just keep reminding yourself of that.”[/b] Jenna nodded to him briefly. [b]”…but you have to promise me something…”[/b] Ben raised an eyebrow at his grinning colleague and finished taking a sip of his water. [b]”What would that be?”[/b] Jenna giggled subtly and looked at Ben with a facetious disappointed expression, as if she was taken by surprise that Ben couldn’t guess for himself. [b]”I want to meet them, of course. You talk about your wife and daughter so much, the majority of everyday really. They’re like celebrities around here thanks to you.”[/b] she explained. Ben couldn’t help himself but to crack a smile. He had only just met Jenna since they were both appointed to the Velpecula, but they have both worked extensively with one another on many issues concerning their route and the area surrounding and within the northern constellations. Ben knew she was a chipper and kind person who really enjoyed the closeness of family. It took him a bit to get used to it, since it was a slight contrast to his own personality. He loved his family, but Ben wasn’t seen nearly as often walking around with a smile on his face. [b]”Yeah, I can do that. I think the both of them would really like you.”[/b] he answered, putting a heartfelt smile on Jenna’s face. She sighed to herself and shifted her focus down to the table. She glanced up at Ben briefly but quickly returned her eyes to the table. [b]”You know…you have no idea how good you really have it…I wish I could…”[/b] A resounding blaring of the alarm throughout the compartments of the ship interrupted Jenna’s sentence, as the red lights filled the cafeteria. Everyone stood and looked around confused, until the voice of Captain Lyle came over the intercom system. [b]”This is a red alert, all fighter pilots report to the bay at once and prepare for combat! I repeat, all fighter pilots report to the bay at once and prepare for combat!”[/b] [b]”Combat? Are we under attack!?”[/b] Ben asked as he stood in his place. Jenna wore a concerned look on her face as she looked around at the scrambling room as those who are pilots rushed to the bay leaving their unfinished meals. Ben grabbed hold of Jenna’s hand and pulled her with him, headed for the bridge. [b]”Where are we going?”[/b] Jenna asked between breaths, as she tried to keep up with Ben. [b]”We’re right here, the Summer Triangle is just ahead of us…we have to find the quickest way to locate the gate, the captain needs to know this!”[/b] he answered, quickening his pace even more. [b]”I’m sure he knows that! If it’s the Vespa that are attacking, surely he’s already issued the order!”[/b] she tried to explain. Ben just kept running, working his way around pilots rushing to the docking bay and others either running to their quarters or to their stations. Mere minutes later, jets flew from the bay of the Velpecula and followed the directions of the bridge toward the fray with the Vespa ships. Ben and Jenna reached the bridge and inserted their identification codes. Their status also came with one of the highest levels of clearance around the ship. They ran in and approached the Vice Captain who stopped them before they could reach the Captain’s position. [b]”What are you two doing here? It’s dangerous, you two should be in your quarters. We need you both unhurt, in case the ship comes under attack.”[/b] Tannith tried to explain, but Ben continued to try and push his way passed. [b]”If it’s the Vespa, then we don’t have any time to lose nor can we afford to be somewhere else right now. We need to enter the Summer Triangle and find that gate…we’re too close to fail now!”[/b] he pleaded. [b]”The Captain, is aware of this!”[/b] Tannith retorted, asserting more of her strength to push Ben back. [b]”The fighter jets are buying us time so we can enter the Triangle. We’ve already received word that the other ships are doing the same. We’ve already lost the Horologium and the Hydra, we don’t intend on wasting any more time.”[/b] [b]”You have to let us stay, we can locate the gate quicker if we can work on the bridge.”[/b] Ben explained firmly. [b]”Absolutely not…”[/b] [b]”Tannith! Allow those two through, I believe it’s better if they are here helping directly. Our fighters are dropping like flies and time is more of a factor now then it ever was.”[/b] Captain Lyle shouted. Tannith immediately bowed her head in acknowledgement and allowed the young astrologists through. The sight outside was bright and fiery with explosions just minutes away from the Velpecula, the source of which being the fighter jets that were meant to combat the Vespa’s brigade. The Velpecula flew at full speed from their point at Alpha Delphinus into the Summer Triangle. Multiple Vespa fighters flew in afterwards, followed by the mother ships in pursuit of the earth craft. Ben and Jenna hastily unfurled the map with their coordinates on it and began collaborating with the navigators. The Velpecula flew through narrow space created by space debris and meteors inside the Triangle. The ship zig-zagged and evaded as best possible at the speed they were going. Ben rushes to the main screen and pointed something out, as he looked back and yelled. [b]”Look! It’s Alpha Sagitta. The coordinates indicate the gate is inside a miniature nebula between that star and Altair! We’re close by.”[/b] The Velpecula approached the nebula, now coming under fire of stray blasts from the Vespa mother ships. A few hits rocked the ship, causing everyone to lose their footing and holding on for their lives. Captain Lyle shouted out to make sure the pilots and navigators kept up with their duties. [b]”Faster, we have to go faster…”[/b] Jenna kept repeating, loud enough to be heard. [b]”I assure you young lady, this is the fastest we can go without crashing this ship. Our speed is barely enough to outrun the Vespa ships, if we don’t find the gate soon…we might as well consider being shot out of the sky.”[/b] the Captain replied. [b]”C…captain!…L…look! Ahead of us!”[/b] then nervous voice of one of the pilots called out, capturing the attention of the room. Ben gazed up at the screen and couldn’t keep his jaw from dropping. [b]”It can’t be…I thought…it was just a legend…there’s never been any proof of this being real!”[/b] Ben exclaimed, still in disbelief of what he saw. [b]”Ben…BEN! What is it!?”[/b] Jenna cried out. [b]”I can’t believe it…the guardians of the Summer Triangle…”[/b] everyone gazed up at the screen in awe of what appeared to be a celestial being of some sort, made up primarily of stardust and glowing a fluorescent blue. It stood firm in its gigantic frame, not taking any noticeable form…but clearly standing guard of something. [b]”Excuse me, would you like to explain this to me Mr. Crux?”[/b] Captain Lyle demanded to know. Ben sighed deeply and walked to the conference table and leaned on it, Jenna next to him watching on with a concerned look. [b]”Astrologists of ancient space constellations and stars have considered the possibility of guardians in the form of manifestations by stars. These guardians are said to protect the most important areas of deep space, the most notable being Canis Major and Canis Minor, the Orion Constellation, The pieces of the Argo Navis, the Eagle and Rosette Nebulas, and of course The Summer Triangle.”[/b] Ben explained. [b]”Of course something like that seemed like ridiculous legends, how could stars manifest a guardian…”[/b] Jenna added in. [b]”My apologies for perhaps not being as understanding as I should be, but is there a reason you felt like only bringing this up NOW?”[/b] Captain Lyle shouted, clearly exasperated. Ben opened his mouth to speak again, but was interrupted by a loud screeching noise of sorts, followed by an ominous voice which inspired as much fear as the sight of the Vespas. [b]”Human and Vespa Ships, I am Altair of the Summer Triangle. I cannot allow you to proceed.”[/b] the guardian spoke in a voice loud enough to nearly burst eardrums. Captain Lyle sighed and turned to his young astrologists while trying to shake the ringing out of his ears, [b]"Well...what now?"[/b] [center]* * * * *[/center] [size=1]OOC: Written in Word in Times New Roman font, size 12. Making the story roughly 7 and 1/2 pages.[/size] [/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"][b]Note:[/b] Just a reminder to everyone, positions aren't first come first serve. So if you see a position signed up for, you may also sign up for it. [center]* * * * *[/center] [color=darkslategray] [b]Name[/b]: Marcus T. DeSouza [b]Gender[/b]: Male [b]Age[/b]: 34 [b]Photograph[/b]: [url=http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b191/Bklynstyles/0000039119_20070413120425-1.jpg]-Marcus[/url] Marcus stands at 5'11, 186 llbs. Well built and constantly keeps the military tags of his younger brother Cameron on him at all times since being presumed dead after his mysterious dissapearence. [b]Position[/b]: Military Commanding Officer [b]Credentials[/b]: -10 years Narisyan Elite Military -8 years SITF (Special Interplanetary Task Force) -Served in the 3 major battles of the Disputing Nations era. -Served in the Kaelius War as Platoon Commander for the Narisyan/Creid alliance. -Served as co-captain of the Starship Aquila during the days of the alliance. -Served as guest drill seargent for the Creid Conscription of 3019 -Promotion to Colonel decided on by the CIF upon selection for expedition based on past records. [b]Living Immediete Family[/b]: -Thomas F. DeSouza Father ? Military General -Terry K. DeSouza Younger brother ? Military Seargent -Chloe S. DeSouza Younger sister ? Government Secretary [b]Other Expertise[/b]: -Renowned and awarded marksman with pistols and rifles. -Versed in certain non-nucleur explosives, including the disarming of and the building of. -Piloting for certain starship and cargo-craft models. -Ametuer boxing background [/FONT][/color]

[FONT="Tahoma"]I love my old RPGs mostly. There's nothing better then going through from beggining to end an old RPG that really makes an impact on you. I've played [b]Final Fantasy VII[/b] from beggining to end fourteen times and it was a great experience each time, doesn't matter how many times I know what's going to happen, it still seems like the first time for me. Minus some adjusted battle strategies of course ;P. FF 6, 7, and 8 all share the title of great nostalgic games. [b]Xenogears[/b] is another fantastic RP to play through again and again, despite it's length. The longer the better to me. Graphics mean absolutely nothing to me when it comes to replay value, or else i'd probably never touch most of the good oldies again. Going even further back though, to real oldies, I love the [b]Star Tropics[/b] games for NES. The first one especially was fun as hell. [b]The Metal Gear Solid games[/b], [b]Resident Evil 4[/b], and [b]Soul Calibur[/b] are other games that are currently on my good replay value list. [/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Posted. You have no idea how restricting 500 words really is >.>. I spent more time editing this thing then writing up the first product. Well, it looks pretty good to me. Hopefully a good start according to Sandy's eyes. It's the Sunflower's move. Now, who wants to go next?[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"][b]?Sasuuuuuka! Wake up honey, you?ll be late for school!?[/b] came the deep voice of a middle-aged woman. Sasuka turned her body and glanced leisurely at the alarm clock. The time of day slowly sank into her mind as she jolted up suddenly and gasped. [b]?Oh no! Did I sleep through the alarm again? Ohhhh?I?m going to be late again!?[/b] she shrieked as she leaped out of bed and hastily stripped out of her pajamas while running into the bathroom. The brunette high school freshmen brushed her teeth and washed her face in record time and proceeded to get dressed in her uniform. Sasuka ran down the stairs like a gust of wind and hurried into her shoes. [b]?Sasuka! At least have a piece of toast??[/b] [b]?Thanks mom! I gotta go!?[/b] Sasuka yelled back as she grabbed hold of a piece of toast and ran out the front door with it hanging out her mouth. She polished off her food in a matter of seconds before feeling a stirring in her backpack. A little furry head poked out from the top through the zipper and shook itself free of the little fuzzballs located in Sasuka?s bag. [b]?Gwaaah! Sasuka, do you have to disturb my sleep every time you?re late for class??[/b] the beige baby winged dragon asked in a high squeaky voice. Sasuka turned her head around. [b]?Fuzzers! I thought I told you to stop sleeping in my bag!?[/b] Sasuka shot back at her furry little sidekick. [b]?But it?s soooo comfyyyy. Besides, when you accidentally summoned me from the book, you told me that I could make myself at home right!??[/b] Fuzzers claimed. Sasuka sighed [b]?I knew I should have listened to mom when she told me to study my incantations?how am I ever going to carry on the family legacy if I can?t even summon a normal dragon!?[/b] [b]?Hmph, well you?re stuck with me like it or not Sassy!?[/b] the fur ball shot back. Fuzzers sank his head back into the bag and stayed silent. Sasuka finally made it to school, just one minute before the start of class. Not being able to stop running, she tripped over her own feet and fell forward as she ascended the stairs to the front entrance. [b]?Ahhh!?[/b] she screamed as she fell gently into someone?s waiting arms. She looked up dizzily and noticed the smooth face of a familiar boy from the school. [b]?K?Kenji!? Eep!?[/b] Sasuka squeaked as she jumped up and turned her back, blushing heavily into her own hands. She had always had a secret crush on the handsome captain of the track team, but because he was an upper-classman she never gathered the courage to speak to him. [b]?Sasuka?right? Be more careful next time. See ya around.?[/b] Kenji spoke, as Sasuka listened through the half muffling of her ears by her thumbs. He walked away as two of Sasuka?s friends came running over to her. [b]?Hehe, she?s red like a tomato again!?[/b] the well-endowed redhead said with a cute giggle. [/FONT]

[quote name='Dagger']Just saw it for myself, and I'd say "Lookin' good" if Utada's rendition of Fly Me to the Moon wasn't so distractingly awful. They really should've 1) had her do a super-fast dance-beat version, which seems to be what she's best at, or 2) gotten someone like Chiaki Ishikawa or Lena Park to sing it. ~Dagger~[/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]I don't think it's that bad. Sure it's very different, but for what it is it's pretty good. She has a great voice if anything. The trailer itself looks awesome, though the quality is a bit off for this particular video. Looking forward to more.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Seems like an interesting idea, and a good attempt at immersing the MMO elements with OB elements. Though the "Catalyst" job makes me laugh with it's description. I'm assuming major cities and places of habitations and other "zones" would be named after notable places on OB...something like [b]Hardwired Castle[/b] or [b]The Lounge[/b]. Where each member would have their respective hometown and guildmasters or what not.[/FONT]

[quote name='2007DigitalBoy'][COLOR="DarkOrange"]Um... porn is legal. Well, the kind of porn you probably look at. Apparently the kind I like isn't quite so much >_>[/COLOR][/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]Porn is legal, obscenities are not. There is a difference. Aside from one being legal and one being illegal that is.[/FONT]

[quote name='Tatsubei Yagyu'][FONT="Comic Sans MS"][COLOR="Navy"] Side-note: Retribution is black!?! :O lmao[/COLOR][/FONT][/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]Thought you were the only one, eh? ;P Nobody could have miscalculated more than me though at first, for whatever reason that I cannot remember now I used to think Retribution was a chick. Hehe.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Hm, I'm amazed actually at how many people dislike the beach. I'm not much of a fan of a scorching hot day as everyone else is but if I can stand it, i'd rather be somewhere I can cool down and hang out with a bunch of girls wearing small bikinis freely. Granted some days are just too hot, and the air conditioning inside the house seems appealing...and hell that works for me too. But the beach is great as long as you aren't self conscious about how you look (and even if you are, i garauntee you there is someone else at that beach bigger then you, and running around with his shirt off proudly with his love handles swinging about). Around here it's just like that, you go to the beach and there are people who look good, and people who don't, but nobody cares about how bad ya look because they're just doing what everyone else is to cool down or have fun. I love the beach near me, it's big with a handball court on each side of it. So I can switch from hanging out on the sand or humiliating people on the handball court. I still have to plan a few beach days for the summer around my work schedule and what not. [/FONT]

[quote name='Retribution'][size=1]Haha, well said. I have yet to hear any valid arguments against marijuana (and its legalization), so I don't really care about people doing that. [/size][/QUOTE] [FONT="Tahoma"]Lol, this seems familiar. We tackled that very subject in an OBS4 debate challenge. Our side was required to argue against the legalization, and despite whatever my personal feelings may be about it...we pretty much won the moment the first post went up ;P. Personally, I don't care if people wanna smoke weed and whatever. I got friends that do it, it dun bother me despite not smoking myself. White is right to an extent, smoking may change the way you act or behave for some time, but essentially doesn't replace who you are or kill who you are. Does it have its adverse effects? Sure, of course. But I know a lot of people like White, who feel no need to do anything more because they get what they want from weed. So if it's serving as an anti-drug, then might as well view it like that. My anti-drug is pretty much just the fact that there's no appeal in it for me. I have never needed anything of the sort to improve my life or make me feel better about something. Nobody has ever offered me and i've never been curious. I have known many people whose lives have changed drastically for the worse because of multiple drugs, such as dust or coke. It just seems like common sense to me to not be as stupid when you're faced with seeing those things happening to other people. Though it [i]is[/i] a lot easier to view things that way from the POV of someone who hasn't done anything to begin with. I also have known people who wanted to stop desperatley but just feel they cannot. The only such addictions I have are things that I already know better my life, like girls and Quiznos.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]I can't help but watch it every damn time myself, hell it's at the point now where I can [strike]mimic the dances in my chair while humming it[/strike] hum it >.> The endings are on and off, depending on what song they do. Has anyone else checked out that live action version of the opening on youtube though? Minus the lack of enthusiasm only in comparison to the opening sequence itself, it's actually pretty creepy how accurate it is.[/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Thread is up in the Square, and the underground has been edited with some info and of course the finalized accepted list. Start posting at will :). [/FONT]

[FONT="Tahoma"][SIZE="4"][center]The Adjutants: Chapter 1 - The Trial[/center][/SIZE] [center]* * * * *[/center] [b]"Mr. Takeda! Are you paying attention?"[/b] Hidemori-sensei yelled out, startling the dozing Hiro from his state of semi-repose. The other students turned to him, mostly confused at the uncharacteristic behavior of a student who normally paid attention in class despite not being the most active. Hiro made a habit of correcting others when they were wrong, which at times earned him annoyed stares, and other times adoration. Hiro shook his head and assured his teacher that he was fine with a nod and quickly turning to the correct page by glancing over to the girl next to him to see which page she was on. [b][i]'Man...ever since Berith showed up I have been getting less and less sleep...I've never felt this tired before. He always returns to his spirit form at night though so it doesn't make any sense. Ugh...'[/b][/i] The bell rang, indicating the end of the period. Hiro stood up and slid his book into his bag, and hurried to the door. His mind was wandering around, after all...today was supposedly the day. [b][i]'The master will have chosen all eight representatives by the end of this month. You are the first, the last one will be chosen on the 30th of November...no later, no earlier. When that time comes, you must be prepared to return to the master and receive the instructions for the trial.'[/b][/i] Berith's words from the second day after receiving the book. Hiro disregarded them for the most part...until he was reminded yesterday. He glanced at his cell phone and checked the time, twelve noon. He walked toward the front door and went outside, his next class was in a half an hour, which was just enough time to get a snack from the vending machine and put a stop to the incessant growling in his stomach. He walked over to the machine infront of the school, but before he could insert his money, a hand draped over his shoulder from behind. [b]"Hiro, you ok?"[/b] a soft female voice asked. Hiro turned his head to see a red-headed female student standing behind him. [b]"Kagami, yeah...I'm fine."[/b] Hiro responded. He inserted his money and made his selection. [b]"Didn't seem like it...you didn't return my call yesterday either."[/b] Kagami added. Hiro took a bite out of his candy bar, and turned his body toward his classmate. [b]"I know, my bad about that...but i was really bus..."[/b] Before Hiro could finish his sentence, the candy bar dropped from his hand and his eyes grew wide at the sight he saw behind Kagami. [b]"G...gah! Hey!"[/b] Hiro yelled out. Kagami jumped a bit, startled by Hiro's sudden change in tone. [b]"W...what's wrong!?"[/b] she asked, looking around her general vicinity only to see other students walking back and forth. [b]"N...nothing! Look, I'm really sorry I didn't call...we'll do something next weekend, I promise! I'm really hungry though so i'll see you later, ok?"[/b] Hiro said frantically. Kagami stood there with a confused look on her face but sighed and agreed. She walked away, back into the building for her next class while Hiro let out a sigh of relief. He turned his attention back to where she was standing. [b]"Why did you freak out like that? I've already told you, unless we choose to let other people see us, we are invisible to all those but the chosen."[/b] Berith reminded his master. [b]"If she could have seen me, so could everyone else...and one of the other students would have already said something."[/b] [b]"Yeah, well what do you expect? It may have been a month since we've met but i'm still getting used to a normally visible only to me knight following me around all the time, ok?"[/b] Hiro retorted, walking passed Berith casually. [b]"Hiro, it's time."[/b] Berith spoke once more, stopping Hiro in his tracks. He turned his head back toward his adjutant. [b]"You're kidding, right?"[/b] Berith shook his head, walked over to Hiro and took hold of his wrist. [b]"Nope, the eight have been decided. Let's go."[/b] [b]"W...wait! I still have another class, and I can't just leave..."[/b] Before Hiro could finish, he was gone in a flash along with Berith. They emerged moments later in a room similar to the lair Hiro had his first encounter with the man Berith called The Master. He always put the emphasis on "The" so not to give off the wrong idea, because Hiro was indeed Berith's master. The Master seemed to indicate something else...but Hiro didn't know what. [center]* * * * *[/center] The lair was bigger, but decorated very much the same. Hiro looked around at his surroundings. The thone, this time in the middle of the room, was empty still. However, surrounding it he saw seven other people. They ranged from japanese to other nationalities, and in age as well...though they all looked relatively young. Four females, three males...four including himself. Beside each of them...their respective Adjutant. The various different looking appearences captivated his attention for a few moments, as Berith took his place beside Hiro. [b]"Berith wasn't kidding...there's seven more."[/b] Hiro said quietly to himself. Hiro attempted to walk forward but notices that hit foot would have only plunged him into a narrow stream of water that served as a ground divider. He caught his balance and backed up. [b]"He's here, you'll soon learn everything."[/b] Berith assured Hiro. As if on cue, the man who bestowed the books to the chosen and his eldery assistant appeared in a cloud of smoke on the center piece where the throne was located. The eight chosen turned their full attention to the middle. [b]"Welcome. I must thank those who received their book much earlier for waiting as long as they did. Your patience is quite the virtue, but now that you are all here...it's time to first learn the truth of the power you all now hold."[/b] [b]"About damn time."[/b] one of the males exclaimed, he stood three sections over from Hiro's left. Behind him was a giant armored Adjutant holding a version of a maul. Hiro turned his head back slowly and noticed one of the girls standing directly to his left. She had long dark hair, a very calm and pretty face. Behind her, a black and silver haired Adjutant with a short sword sheathed inside a small shield. The man's voice brought Hiro back to attention though. [b]"The first thing you should all know, is that since the first day your Adjutant has been summoned...the page you read off of has changed from it's original text to the name of the adjutant's master. This book is proof of your bond, and should never be carelessly misplaced. Your Adjutants are now summoned by your will, and not by your books. Do with them what you wish, keep them on you or in safe keeping...but when you are not in battle, your Adjutant may take what is known as a "spirit form". When the time comes, you must summon them to your side using your mental bond with one another."[/b] [b][i]'So looks like I did the right thing by putting that book in the locked safe. He mentioned...battle though, didn't he? What kind of battle is he intending to put us in?'[/b][/i] Hiro thought to himself. [b]"Everything else you must come to know, can only be learned in battle. Hence why you are all here, this is your trial. In thirty minutes time, you will all be sent somewhere for your Adjutants to test their skills, and for you all to test your skills as their masters. You must all work together to best the obsticles that will be in your way. Though it is a trial...it is very real. Be on your guard at all times. Now, if you all wish to converse with one another or do anything else you may wish before you are teleported, you may do so now. I shall see you all on the field."[/b] The man spoke before dissapearing with his assistant from his throne. [b]"Remember what I told you about this, Hiro. Because if you mess up, there's only so much I can do to save your ass."[/b] Berith reminded. [b]"For now, why not do what The Master suggested."[/b] [b]"What about you, Berith. The other Adjutants are your friends, aren't they?"[/b] Hiro inquired. [b]"Ha, I wouldn't use the word "Friend" to describe how we all know each other. Or atleast how I know them. I know them yes, but it's imperative for us Adjutants to not formulate those types of relationships...you will discover why after this trial."[/b] Berith explained. Hiro just shrugged, figuring Berith knew more about what was going on then he did. The ground evened out, connecting everyone's section to the main section. They were free to mingle as they saw fit until they were summoned. [center]* * * * *[/center] OOC: Jus as said, take this time to conversate with whomever, do what ya want. The Trial will start after a few posts, and we can get to the action ;).[/FONT]