Darren

[CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/beatrist-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/charlesavatar.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] [SIZE="1"][INDENT][B]"Oh come on Grandma Beatrist, can't we stay longer?"[/B]Bertram whined, [B]"Look, Harrison [I]and[/I] Victoria are allowed to stay out longer."[/B] [B]"Well I should think so, Harrison and Victoria are quite a bit older than you Bertram. Now you've been at the party for quite some time, but I think it's time for bed. Now off with both of you. Go clean up."[/B] The children's grandmother sternly grasped Bertram's arm and pulled him out of the throng of people -- Almagests and family friends -- through the dining hall doors. Bertram was just as stubborn as his mother and alwasy had a knack for breaking the rules. Pearl, however, was much more quiet and patient like her father. She sullenly followed behind her grandmother clutching the side of her evening dress. Tonight, however, Pearl wasn't as cheery as she used to be and she wasn't smiling like she was before the party started. As the group reached the stairs, Beatrist said to Bertram, [B]"Run along now child. Wash up. I'll be in shortly to tuck you in and you had better be in bed by then."[/B]Then, to Pearl she said, [B]"What's wrong?"[/B] The child's eyes were downcast, and it took quite a bit of coaxing before she would even look at her grandmother. That was when she saw tears in Pearl's eyes. [B]"Daddy didn't come. You called him on the phone, and I know he said he wouldn't , but I just hoped with all my heart that he would be here."[/B] [B]"Don't be so sure about that."[/B]Charles had just arrived at Rosengard and happened to overhear his daughter's words. [B]"I realized that I needed to see you and Bertie more than anything. Now, dry up those tears Pearl."[/B] He said, wiping her eyes. [B]"Now off to bed. I need to speak with your grandmother."[/B] Pearl started to protest, but Charles insisted, [B]"I'll be up shortly to tuck you in and then we can spend all of tomorrow together. But for now, I need to speak to Grandma Beatrist."[/B] Pearl left reluctantly, and Charles embraced his mother in-law. [B]"I hope your healthy. Have you been eating? Why do you look so pale and dirty? I hope the railroads haven't been too unkind..."[/B] Beatrist did this ever time he came to visit. When she was done, he spoke. [B]"Don't worry. I'm fine. I needed to at least pay my respects to Leonhart even if I'm not really an Almagest."[/B] [B]"I'll not have that nonsense again. You will always be an Almagest. If anything, you're linked by the two wonderful children you and Elizabeth have..."[/B] [B]"I know. I can't bear to think of it either."[/B] he replied, [B]"I only came for the party. I'll be leaving in two days."[/B] [B]"Is that all? Why don't you stay longer Charles?"[/B] Beatrist pleaded for the longest time, but Charles would not discuss it further. Perhaps Bertram's stubbornness was inherited from both parents. [B]"I'm just happy you're home, regardless of how long. And I know the kids will be pleased."[/B] She continued, [B]"Now. We must get you ready if you're to make an appearance at father's party. You take a bath, while I set out your old suit. Then, you can tuck the children in and you should be ready in time for a good portion of the party."[/B] Charles started up the stairs to the bithroom. [B]"Charles?"[/B] She asked, [B]"Did you remember to bring a present?"[/B] His heart raced. How could he have forgotten a gift for Leonhart on his birthday? [B]"Not to worry. Somehow I knew you would be unprepared. I have one for you. And I have a feeling that Leonhart will be very pleased with it."[/B] [B]"Thank you,"[/B] Charles sighed. [B]"Now I must hurry and get to that party."[/B][/INDENT][/SIZE]

Sorry about the lack of activity. I had a post typed up, but my computert went bonkers on me so I had to B-slap the ho and put it in its place... Unfortunately, it responded by eating all my info and spitting it in my face. Technology these days: So rude. Anyway, I promise to have a new post up by tomorrow. (Or today, since it's actually 3:20 am) But don't expect it to be long. And I was wondering Shy or Sandy: What's the form of communication? Are there telegraphs or telephones? (early prototypes at least?) Or is it all just by mail? And, Malkav, I'm totally up for any character interatction between Charles and Jack, just let me introduce him. I'll look you up on AIM and we can chat about some ideas, perhaps.

[quote name='Konata']Girls aren't all the same ='( They all have different interests and preferences. Some girls like young guys, some girls like older guys, some girls like little boys, and some girls like old (in their 60s) men =P Likewise, some girls like their guys to be hot, others cute, or sometimes it doesn't matter. I'd have to agree with Retribution though. Could you elaborate and tell us the details of who you're looking for, and describe yourself. That way, we'll be able to tell you more.[/QUOTE] Or some girls don't know what they want in a guy... Based on your age, (and pure logic would set her at or around that same age) I would say that the initial attraction was purely physical. (or maybe not... I don't really have enough information to go on here. So I don't mean to make assumptions and call her shallow or you ugly) But high school relationships usually don't amount to much. The whole point of being a teenager is to figure out what you like. She may have dumped you because she was scared of you two getting close, and then hurting you some day, thus ruining your friendship. AKA: The Friend Zone (Jeez. I've been put there more than enough times) She also could have dumped you because she saw a cuter guy who she wanted more. The way I see it, don't worry about it. I've heard so many break-up and get-together stories that I don't even bother to remember who's a couple anymore except for my close friends. (So I won't hit on their girlfriends) But truth be told, if she were so easily swayed after "dating" for a week or so, then give it a couple more weeks... She might be into you again by then. And remember, of all the high school romances, probably only about 5% actually make it after school. And even then, with divorce rates going up, that number is probably vastly outdated. But best of luck to you! EDIT: Woops! I didn't mean to imply that you wanted anything long term out of the relationship, (because I know a lot of people who don't) but if that's the case, then there's really no reason to be heart-broken over.

You know I would love this... But what do you mean, the new characters would have to be the heirs of the original? Are we experiencing a major time jump or what?

I would definately say that I agree with Sakurasuka the most, while I wouldn't say my definition of cheating is exact... Actively avoiding women/men like the plague is practically impossible what with more and more women getting jobs outside the home. (In the old days, it was easy to avoid foreign women because they were at home, cooking or cleaning. Not to sound sexist) And because of that, it's obvious that people are going to get work buddies of the opposite sex. However, it becomes painfully clear (to the person being cheated on) that infidelity has occured when the person acts on physical attraction. Now I'm not saying that after marriage, you won't ever find anybody but your spouse attractive. However, if you're tempted by that person towards infidelity, you should politely avoid them. I'm not saying that hugging is cheating. Let's face it, sometimes men just don't think, and an innocent hug in their mind should not be held against them. But if it ever becomes more than that. (holding hands, kissing on cheek, etc.) that's when I'd consider it cheating. Here's an idea: If you have a man/woman with a lot of friends of the opposite sex, spend more time with your spouse/boyfrind/girlfriend... If they go to business (or personal) parties, go with them. Of course, if you trust them, you shouldn't worry. (But in many cases, you can't trust as far as you can throw; people just don't expect it to ever happen to them) It's a hard thing to say exactly, and a large majority of it depends on the person... For example, for someone who is extremely jealous, even helping a co-worker (of the opposite or same sex, depending) carry his/her business supplies (or whatever they carry) could be borderline cheating... On the contrary, take this one couple I know. They've been together for years and years. (Since before I was born. They're very good friends of my parents) They know 100% that neither one would cheat on the other. The man has many friends. (My parents call him metrosexual... I call him closeted bi-, but whatever) And has been caught on numerous occasions kissing another girl on the cheek, or going shopping for BRAS with them! Even I would consider that cheating, but she knows him better than I do and she has assured me that he's not cheating. It's all opinion.

[quote name='Sandy']And to [B]Darren[/B], your character's romance with Lady Artemis is totally okay, but we should make Elizabeth the daughter of Zelgadis (and sister to Alecia). Angelina could be his wife, but I resent the name since we already have an Evangeline in the family. So if you don't mind, me and Shy would fit you in the family tree that way. ;D[/QUOTE] Okay, that's perfectly fine... You could even change the name if you want... I'll play with my sign-up info accordingly, assuming that this is okay with Andrew...

[quote name='Shy'][size=1]I'm not sure about giving Leonhart a third wife, but I don't see a reason your character can't be a half-sibling of sorts. Leonhart Almagest is a larger than life character; I suspect he's got more than a few illegitimate children floating around... As I have said before, some slight retooling may be neccessary in order to make everyone's character fit under the same general umbrella. [B]The existance of Darren's character in particular introduces a lot of NPCs that I'd simply rather not deal with.[/B] Hopefully we can adjust this somehow, but right now I'd rather players make the characters they want... we can sort out the bloodline later. -Shy[/size][/QUOTE] Haha, yeah... I guess I did go a little overboard, didn't I? Well, since I killed several of the characters that I inttoduced as NPCs, that brings my total up to 3. Still, since everyone else introduced a whopping total of 0, (Not including the implication of spouses, which were added later) I guess that makes me the winner... Or loser however you want to look at it. Still, though... I went through and drew out the family tree thus far. (On the assumption that everyone were to be accepted) and it's really not that difficult... So maybe if after everyone was accepted, you could provide us with some visual aid. The way I see it, Celcius had at least two children. One of them gave birth to Daedalus, Leonhart, and Catherine. The other gave birth to Dawlish. We already know that Daedalus fathered Harrison, and so far Catherine and Dawlish seem to be without children. Patrice and Leonhart had 5 kids! (In order of birth) Angelina, Zelgadis, Fauntleroy, Evangeline, and Macey... Bartholomew was born from a secret mistress, and so far, Bavaria has had no children... The two eldest of Leonhart's (Angelina and Zelgadis) had one child each. (Elizabeth and Alicia) Then they were both married to mine and Rach's Characters... And I wanted Charles to have kids, so I created Bertram and Pearl... Okay, so it sounds confusing in writing, but it really isn't. Besides, Angelina, Bertram, and Pearl can be very minor characters... Or, they can be moderately important. (Depending on how everyone else uses them throughout the RP. After all, they are NPCs) But I do understand Shy. If you and Sandy would like for me to cut them out of the RP, I will. (Reluctantly, but I will) But, I never had my question answered, was the whole fling between Charles and Meredyne okay?

It's a sad thing, that's for sure... I hate to claim Kansas as my home state because of the Westboro Baptist Church... The really sad thing is knowing one of the soldiers that they protested at in Norman, OK about two years ago, which is what led Oklahoma to ban the protests. I don't even want to imagine what I would have done had I been at that funeral... Or for that matter, if they had been at one of the funerals I had attended. (Because I know that if they had found out about it, they would have been there) Yes, I realize that wouldn't be smart on my part, but what they're doing is wrong. What really gets me is how they can be so self-absorbed... How can the Westboro Church actually say that God cares about them SO much, that he would punish others for it!?!? I've read a bit on their official site. They claim that predestination has determined who goes to hell and who doesn't, and that God is only good to those whom he already knows will be attending heaven. They claim that they have the right to pass judgement on God's behalf as long as they are not guilty of the sin themselves. I don't beleive in either God or Lucifer, but it sounds to me they've got the two mixed up. They sound more like the Calvinists of the Old World than the baptists. "God hates fags," No, you hate. The God they preach about, the same one I grew up with as a child, is not capable of such deep hatred over the violence President Bush has caused... Violence is all over the world (I mean look at the church; they're inspiring some) but they want to point fingers at Bush... They completely ignore the issues as to why we're at war right now. They talk about the wrath and vengence of God upon America, but what about our wrath and vengance? We don't have a right to stand up to what we think is right. (Not that most American's still stand behind Bush's decisions anymore, but that's beside the point. And don't give me the whole "Do not kill," bull. Remember the crusades) They're obsessed with themselves... I only suppose it's going to take a huge tornado that tears apart the Westboro Baptist Church to make them see the error of their ways.

[SIZE="1"]I feel a bit rusty on my sign-ups, and RPing for that matter... But I signed up nonetheless. I have a feeling there will be some character problems with my entry. I wasn't sure if you had already fleshed out some of the NPCs, and I wanted to tie Charles into the Aristocracy more than just "Widower," so I added a bit about his romance with Meredyne Artemis... If you think this shouldn't happen, or you had a specific age picked out for her that wouldn't allow for such a romance, then let me know... I'm sure I can think of something.[/SIZE]

WOW! I go away for a little bit only to return to a steampunk RPG! This is so excititng, I hope I'm not too late to join. Here 'goes... ----- [SIZE=1][B]Your Name:[/B] Charles "Charlie" Garnett Cornwall Almagest [B]Your Age:[/B] 31 [B]Your position inside the Almagest family:[/B] Widower to Leonhart's eldest granddaughter, Elizabeth. [B]Your portrait: [/B][URL="http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/7020/victorianbyeleganzedn1.jpg"]Charles[/URL] [B]Your Occupation:[/B] Train Conductor [B]Your Story:[/B] [I]Leonhart and Lady Patrice bore their first child Angelina at the age of 18. Angelina Almagest married Arthur Wellington at the age of 20 and bore her only child, Elizabeth, at the age of 21, just before Arthur was killed. Charles Cornwall married Elizabeth Almagest when she was 19. (He was 24) She gave him two children, before dying of a strange illness. A boy named Bertram, (age 7) and a baby girl named Pearl. (age 5)[/I] Charles Cornwall was the only child of Maryanne and Robert Cornwall, successful and hardworking citizens of Czenovia. Charles discovered a talent for alchemy at a young age, and his parents quickly sent him off to various academies to better his education. He was a good student, but was known widely as a trouble-maker. After he turned 15, and was expelled from his fifth school, his parents decided to give him one final chance to make something of himself. They send him to Czenoble High Academy of Sciences. Strangely, a change did occur in Charles, and he began to mature. Many thought it was the fear of becoming just another miner that straightened him out. Or perhaps, the strict rules and difficult coursework left no room for running rampant. Truth be told, Charles fell in love with Meredyne Artemis, heiress to Artemis Air Transports. They were together for quite some time, and naturally, Charles was given a job at Artemis when Meredyne inherited the company. Rumor was the couple were to be married, but that never happened. Charles discovered that Meredyne had another love that far surpassed her own for Charles: Work. Meredyne was a control-freak, workaholic, who hardly spent any time with Charles. They slowly drifted apart and when Charles met Elizabeth Almagest, they fell in love. Outraged and embarrassed, Meredyn fired Charles and promised to never allow him work at Artemis again. Even though, his education with alchemy and magitechnology was great, Charles never really needed to work due to the inheritance Elizabeth was receiving. They married and Elizabeth gave birth to Bertram and Pearl, just before she passed. Elizabeth's untimely death, was quickly followed by the death of both of Charles's parents. He lived in depression for the longest time. His only family left were his children and mother-in-law, Angelina. She supported him for some time, until he refused to accept her money any longer. The painful memories of were too great for Charles and he left the city, using his knowledge of magitechnology to become a train conductor. The life suited him; he didn't have to be tied down for too long and didn't risk getting hurt again. Charles used alchemy to improve the travel of the basic machines and uses he troubleshoots any problems that may occur during transport. His two children live with their grandmother.[/SIZE]

It looks like I'll have to withdraw my last statement... I'm grounded and my computer time is supposed to be 0... If I didn't have a friend who was willing to let me use his computer for a bit, then I wouldn't even be posting this. Basically, I've received my first B on a report card in my high school career. Mom didn't take it so well, giving me this major speech on how a B doesn't look good, it will drop me in class rank, then I won't get to be Valadictorian or Salutatorian (Not that I want to be anyway) and then I'll less of a chance to get into the college that I want to, etc. etc. etc. Sorry everybody, I'll be able to get on for brief posts and updates at school, but a full-length post ususally takes me about 1 1/2 hours... Sandy, my deepest apologies. Especially after DB and BK left. To everyone else, good luck!;)

[quote name='Shy'][size=1]My only concern is that over time earning cards will become virtually impossible due to the way the point system is structured. That, and Darren doesn't post enough. Otherwise I'm enjoying myself so far, but only because my last post earned me some points. Heh. -Shy[/size][/QUOTE] School, Work, College, Speech/Drama, Honor Club, History Day Club, Yearbook, Newspaper, and ALL MY EXTRA-CARRICULARS takes up about 14 to 18 hours of my day constantly! Not to mention, that I've got to get my stuff together to apply for colleges and stuff. You can imagine how stressed/tired/crabby/anxious I am. Not to mention that I've lost a lot of weight (to my already measly 135) and I look like I'm strung out on drugs now... I'm sorry, but I'm sure you understand that senior year is a hell hole of stress and that's where my number one priority is right now. That's not to say that I want to quit... But I've been so busy that I haven't even had time to read the last few posts, but merely log in to check for an update. I'm sure after I read the posts I've missed, (Which I will do tonight or tomorrow now that I have a 4 day weekend) I'll be able to post... I am really [SIZE="4"]really[/SIZE] sorry guys. If my lack of posting becomes a problem, I will gladly concede. (At this point, I'm extremely grateful that I didn't start The Abyss) [quote name='Sandy']And about posts not earning points: Why are they a problem? You guys post to RPGs all the time without getting [I]anything[/I] back, but you don't whine about that! ;P [/QUOTE] Well, to be honest Sandy, if the other RPs I have been in were a competition, such as the Death Card Series, I [I]would[/I] whine if I didn't get anything... But then I suppose you're right: The more I post, the more chances I have to win stuff... I just wish I weren't so busy.

I agree with Rach. But then again, I've already whined about this before. And seeing all the life actions I've performed, it really makes me want to shoot myself in the foot for getting those death points. I could have already had a card and everything if it hadn't been for that [B]stupid[/B] cancellation rule!

[quote name='SunfallE'][COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Sandy... I can't even manage to get a card let alone kill anyone! :animesigh I'm the only one who hasn't managed to get a card either way. Honestly, it's a little depressing. I gain points and then lose them due to the [I]one cancels out the other[/I] deal, and I seem to suck at guessing the right actions that would even earn points. [/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE] Don't be so sure. I haven't received a card either. I thought I was doing pretty good once I got to 5 life points, but then I dropped to 2 and my last post only gained me one point. :animecry: We're in the same situation. And I apolagize for the absence this past week. We had a drama competition and I was prepping for it all week. Now that it's passed, I'm good to go. (If only I didn't have to work. GRRR) Not to worry, I aim to have a post up by tomorrow around noon.

[SIZE="1"][COLOR=#3D597E][B]"Is something bothering you, sister?"[/B] Raone spoke, his gold eyes examining every muscle in her body. [B]"You look troubled."[/B] And of course, Telumas was a fool for thinking she could possibly hide it from him. The others were clueless, but the bond they shared only magnified his power of truth for her. All of the others turned to her, surprised by Raone's comment. Perhaps they suspected a bluff or one of the goddess' traps gone awry. But if Raone knew the truth, there was no sense in hiding. [B]"It only pains me to see the mortals die so brutally."[/B] she said. Some rolled their eyes and turned back to the pool, but Celesta continued to stare with an awe-struck look in her eyes. [B]"Don't act so surprised,"[/B] she spoke to the goddess, [B]"Just because I beleive in killing for sport and survival. I would never condone the murder of innocents. If I were granted, this Christopher fellow would have already met an arrow between the eyes."[/B][/COLOR] [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-ash.png[/IMG][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-charles.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-jamie.png[/IMG][/CENTER] Charles had run as long as he possibly could. His legs were tired, but no more than when he was forced to work out in the field. Finally he came to a stop and sat to rest next to a tree. [I]"What have I done?"[/I] Charles own anger was increasing as he deliberated. He thought about how Ash had saved him. How he couldn't possibly have meant any harm. How he had foolishly left that boy alone to fend for himself against the other man. [I]just because he's white doesn't mean he's a slave-owner. I need to go back and help. I still own him.[/I] And so he turned back, headed for where he thought the collision with Ash had occured. [CENTER]***[/CENTER] Jamie had awoken late in the morning to find that had gone in the middle of the night. [B]"Shit. I can't even keep them when I'm not trying to sleep with them."[/B] He cursed himself for not being more awake the night before. Maybe he could have stopped her from leaving, because now he was all alone again. After finding any remains that Ira had left behind, he packed a bag and headed out. Jamie decided that the forest was his best option out of this hell hole. Because as he knew it, the city was abandoned and the only other two girls he'd met had abandoned him. Not ten minutes after leaving his house, he came across someone. From a distance, he could only tell that it wasn't the crazy burka woman and that was all he cared about. The figure was lying on the ground, seemingly unconscious. As Jamie got closer, he noticed that it was rather young boy and looked like he had just been mugged. Having experience as a bartender in the bad part of town, and thus experience with mugging, Jamie leaned over the boy to check his pulse... Jamie sighed with relief; the boy was alive, but it wouldn't be for long. Looking at his hand, and the strange injury that had healed since the day before, Jamie touched the young man lying on the ground. [B]"Get away from him!"[/B] Charles screamed as he emerged from the deeper parts of the forest. He had anger in his eyes, and Jamie backed up from the boy. [B]"Ash? Can you hear me? Wake up."[/B] He called, but Ash did not even move. He turned to the bartender. [B]"What did you do?"[/B] Protection of Ash was the only thing on his mind [B]"Nothing! I found him like this. I was trying to help."[/B] Jamie proclaimed his innocence, but somehow saw that the black man did not believe him. His mind seemed to be on revenge. [B]"You're lying!"[/B] he screamed. [B]"No. I can prove it to you."[/B] [B]"Why should I beleive you? A white man?"[/B] Jamie found it odd that Charles would find him racist. Not that this man knew him, but surely he couldn't just think he was racist because of his skin color. [B]"Just trust me."[/B] Trust. Charles found the word odd, but when he thought about it, and thought about his grandfather's kind words, he realized that this man's eyes did not lie. [I]How strange to find a place with two white men who do not judge me.[/I] Charles backed away and let Jamie resume his position beside Ash. The slave was confused at what he saw. One second, the man was touching Ash's ribs and forhead, then there was some kind of warmth in the air around them. The next second, Ash was sitting straight up, as if he'd been given a second chance and the other man gripped his ribs and fell to the ground. Both men ran quickly to Jamie's side, worried for his life, and confused about the obvious miracle performed by a complete stranger. Jamie was still awake, but only barely. [B]"What's going on?"[/B] Ash spoke in a raspy voice. [B]"Why am I alive?"[/B] [B]"This man saved you and don't ask how."[/B] Charles was too scared to make a move. He didn't know what to do. Why would this stranger make such a sacrifice for someone he didn't even know? He kept saying, [B]"I'm sorry,"[/B] over and over. He was sorry for leaving Ash. Sorry for yelling at the man and for not trusting him. [B]"Charles, it's okay. Run and see if you can find something to help this man."[/B] Ash spoke in a voice commanding authority, but the demand was needed or else Charles never would have left. When he was gone, he and Jamie locked eyes. [B]"Thanks for saving me. I owe you big time."[/B] The bartender moved his lips and mouthed 'No big deal' before clenching his eyes in pain. It hurt to breath, but the thought of even moving almost put him into unconsciousness. [B]"Don't try to talk. Charles is going to go get something to help you. You just need to stay with me."[/B] But it was no use, Jamie slipped into unconsciousness. Meanwhile, Charles was running again. Only this time he was headed back into town. He didn't know what he was lookig for, but he knew that all he wanted to help this man. He hoped that finding medicine would be rather easy and at the moment, he pushed all other thoughts of revenge and anger out of his mind.[/SIZE]

I am also wondering if I canceled some out... Because now my points say two. :animecry: This is harder than I thought, and I really doubt that I was able to do five "life actions" in one post... This sucks! If it stays this hard to get any kind of points, this game will drag on forever!

I retyped my old post: It didnt' turn out as bad as I had thought it would. I just wanted to point out and inform that my post was not intended to change the character that Farah had developed into. I was just merely trying to say that Farah had felt bad for attacking Jamie. And I didnt' even say that directly, so you guys can still take her to be a crazy psycho if you want. I wasn't really focusing on her feelings so she could be betraying Ira if you'd like...

[SIZE="1"][COLOR=#3D597E]Everything was going according to plan. After opening old wounds with her speech about Celesta's capablility to rule, everyone had gotten quite. The discussion had been reiterated through the years and it alwasy ended in violence. No doubt that right now, the same fact was running through everyone's head. This was even more obvious now that the other, more silent, gods were doing all the arguing. They even seemed to ignore Telumas, as she had exhausted her feelings that no one even wished to hear her opinion. The goddess smiled inwardly and tried her best not to match that smile on the outside. [I]Rattle the players. Rattle the game. Take the win.[/I] she thought to herself before turning back to the pool at the center.[/COLOR] [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-ira.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-farah.png[/IMG][/CENTER] Ira couldn't sleep for the life of her. Was she in hell because that forest she emerged into sure as hell wasn't Russia. Yet, the unmistakable sound of bones snapping, that tunnel-vision blackness, and then... Ira sat up abruptly, too frustrated to sleep. She only remembered light. Sudden light and then the jungle. [I]And that boy[/I] she thought, looking over at Jamie. Light should be designated as heaven, but Jamie said a woman had attacked him. Then the thought struck her, [I]Could it be purgatory? What have I done to deserve this?[/I] But Jamie had said, he was at work, and suddenly walked into this place so how was it that she remembered dying and he didn't? [I]It's all so fucked up![/I] She stood and crossed to the closet, where a brown shoulder bag was hanging. She and Jamie had searched the entire home and found two bags with about seven days worth of clothing. Each new outfit seemed to be imported from different countries, and Ira figured that if she wasn't coming back, that at least she could use the clothing. [B]"Sorry,"[/B] she whispered to the sleeping boy as she left. After packing, she left the house via the back door. She figured Jamie could be part of the illusion and her only option was to find her store and her way back to her home. After about an hour of treking through brush and overcoming the fear of an attack, she arrived at the exact spot where she had first appeared. Nothing was there. An opening in the forest shown a silver light, but everything else was bare. She let out a deep sigh and sunk to her knees, crying. [B]"Please help me, please. What did I do?"[/B] she prayed to god to give her strength. She prayed that this was a test of faith. She prayed that she was asleep in a hospital or perhaps in her bed and that the earthquake was fake as well. Sobbing, she gripped onto the rosarie around her neck for support. She heard a twig snap behind her and Ira's first thought was that a wild animal had finally caught up with her, but it appeared to be a human. [B]"Jamie?"[/B] she called out? But instead it was a woman in a royal blue burka. [B]"I'm sorry. My name is Farah."[/B] By the look of her clothing, Ira guessed her to be from the middle east. [B]"I hope I'm not intruding, but I saw that you were praying."[/B] Ira just nodded. She couldn't really speak at all with her crying. [B]"I, too, have sins which I must attone for. I hope that you would allow me to joing you?"[/B] Farah approached her, placing her hand on Ira's shoulder. Ira nodded again and began praying again. Farah got on her knees and took a stance that the russian was not used to seeing, but the two women were already enthralled in the moment. Scared and confused, Farah thought that any woman regardless of her appearance was better than that disrespectful man. She hoped he was dead and prayed even more for forgiveness.[/SIZE]

Ever since Columbine, and now Virginia Tech., school's have been a lot more... *searches for appropriate word* on edge. At my school, what with the intergration of the larger schools, (long story short, they couldn't pass at their school, so instead of summer school, they chose our school) violence has definately improved. Last year, I saw my first [I]real[/I] fight. There was this one girl who called on of the new girls stupid, and there was a brawl. Involving everyone in the whole school. I got thrown into it just because I was in the hall. (out of nowhere, I get knocked to the ground and fist to the face) Then this year, there's already been two fights, a "stabbing" if you'd call it that, (this kid got stabbed with a knife on his hand and had to have surgery to reconnect some tendons) And a gun threat... :o Is it just me or is the "edginess" of the faculty actually pushing violence further? People have alwasy said, if you tell someone not to do it, they ususally do just to see if they could get away with it. (which is the case of the knife at school) And our school has actually banned usage of the word "gun," unless it's in context of a story we're reading or a discussion of certain things. (such as war, or deer hunting) And then yesterday, I found out that one of my closest friends was locked in a room for TWO HOURS because HE WORE A TRENCHCOAT! Is that even legal? There's been no mention of not wearing trenchcoats to school. And if the teachers would actually take time to get to know their students (seriously, it wouldn't be that hard to figure out who the problem kids are with only about 125 to a grade) they would have known that he wasn't the type to shoot up the school. He [I]is[/I] a gun enthusiast, but he's one of the smartest people I know. He's an honor student, and he had been telling us (myself and our friends) about that trenchcoat for a long time, and he was really excited about it. While they were in the room, they implied that he was the "type" of person to do that. (EG: Shy and reserved) They also told him that wearing a trenchcoat was a red flag for school shooting. I understand that during Columbine, they boys wore trenchcoats to school, but that's just idiotic to assume that everyone who wears one means they are a killer. What do you guys think? Any stories of your own?

Dang it! I had a post typed up. But something happened and I lost it all!!! I can't believe that... I would re-type it, but now I'm mad and afraid that it won't be as good. :animecry: I'll retry later tonight. Just in case anyone cares: I was going to use Farah and Ira in my post. I'm not saying they're off limits, but just in case you guys wanted to be considerate?

[quote name='Shy'][size=1]Just in the same way that I made Marta a murderer or Charles a pedophile I decided to add a much darker layer to the character. I don't mean for Farah to represent all Afghani women, but I did take creative liberties from what DigitalBoy had posted earlier. I think the idea that we have to portray any politically incorrect characters as saints is quite boring as well. In future posts I'd like to flesh out her character some, since I know her actions were a total departure from what we've come to expect. I don't mean to be offensive, and if it comes across to others as bad characterization or racism I can remove it altogether. I'd definitely like to hear some other people's thoughts about this, and I'll try to be more careful in the future. Quite honestly, my real goal right now is to get death points and start moving the game forward. But I do understand your concern and I do apologize. -Shy[/size][/QUOTE] [quote name='SunfallE'][COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Darren... You make me sad that you even bothered to bring it up in the first place. Honestly, you do. :animedepr[/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE] Haha, now I feel embarrassed. (Hey everyone let's sit in a circle and announce how we feel today) No, Shy, I didn't mean to act that way, and I didn't mean to imply that your post about Farah boardered Racism... I was actually only posting in the underground because I saw like 40 posts since I'd read it last and felt a little left out. And since your post about Farah was on my mind the most (and actually related to the Ragnarok, and thus, the underground) I posted about that. I don't mean to sound like I'm complaining about it. I understand that it's a game and that is a major objective of the game. :p I guess I should have been more careful in my word choice, since I wasn't acutally sad. I thought it more ironic (And even more so ironic at the fact that I'm reading a book about Kabul Afghanistan. I guess that would make my opinion on her biased anyway) I'm a random person, jeez! I'm sorry! (And just so no one gets the wrong idea, that last sentence was sarcasm) lol. Just because I have a few serious posts somewhere buried here at OB, doesn't mean you should take things so literally from me. Perhaps if I included more emotes next time! :D Would that work? It's totally fine Shy. No worries.:animeswea (I beleive that was enough emotes for one post)

[quote name='indifference'][COLOR="Indigo"]Oh don't be so silly. This game is about bringing out people's dark side regardless of where they are from or political BS. Don't worry about making declarations that a character wouldn't do something regardless of how they were raised. It's out of place here. Besides, Shy was following up on what DB set up when he introduced her in the first place. lol It's a game Darren... Not something to get sad over. :p[/COLOR][/QUOTE] I suppose I'm only saying that because the book makes me sad. But not the game literally. And BTW, I wouldn't think of what DB wrote as out of line for Afghanistan men in 2003, and that didn't directly define Farah. Besides, I was only making conversation as to avoid spammy-ness. (Which this post has just become) :p

Wow. It seems that I've been ignoring the underground thread for too long. Sorry about that, I've been so busy, I've only gotten on to read updated in the square and to post... So, what's up? There's not much that I can say, but just to make this non-spam, I will discuss characters. [B]Farah:[/B] Shy, you made me sad with how you portrayed an Afghanistan woman. I don't beleive that she would ever do that to anyone, regardless of how she was raised... I guess it just seems like a political stereotype what with the war in Iraq going on... Oh, P.S. I can almost guarentee that Farah belongs to someone who's read "The Kite Runner." So if you chat to anybody and they mentioned it, that would be my first guess. I just started it yesterday and Kabul Afghanistan became an instant giveaway... (I guess I'll go now)

[SIZE="1"][COLOR=#3D597E][B]"Tell me Celesta,"[/B] Telumas chimed in, after some time. A few, such as Bellanna were occupied with what was happening inside the Ragnarok. Others were talking idly amongst themselves. [B]"What do you plan on doing with the mortal realm, should you win?"[/B] Celesta gave Telumas her full attention for the first time since the "game" had started. However, she did not answer; merely gawked at such an interesting, or perhaps, difficult question. [B]"You claim to value all life the same, yet you participate in such a cruel display of death. I'm curious what you would do if you won? Would you allow all mortals to live forever?"[/B] She pressed. Celesta remained quiet once more. After a few moments of contemplation, she replied, [B]"I believe that my stance on life is clear, Telumas."[/B] She mocked the huntress, but danced around the question. After more thought, [B]"Life and death come as a part of nature. I suppose all living things must die eventually, but one should never disrespect a mortal's life simply because they can."[/B] [B]"Right, you are,"[/B] She replied, beginning to walk a circle around the pool in the center. [B]"However, is participating in the Ragnarok not a direct contradiction to that statement?"[/B] The goddess of life hesitated. It was a paradox that Celesta had struggled with since the beginning of time and Telumas knew that. Celesta opened her mouth to speak, but Telumas cut her off. [B]"The mortal realm should not be ruled by one who is biased in mortal affairs."[/B] Treisleilai nodded in agreement to this statement. She must have missed her own one-sided agenda. [B]"If I were to win--"[/B] She continued. [B]"Yes, what would you do?"[/B] Jachym spoke for the first time in quite awhile. [B]"For that matter, how do you even plan on winning?"[/B] But this was something, Telumas was prepared for. She picked up her Sure Shot card and tossed it into the pool, not caring who received it. [B]"I have a strategy, do not worry. But randomness alwasy makes thing more interesting, wouldn't you say so?"[/B][/COLOR] [CENTER]***************[/CENTER] Charles Jefferson emreged to something completely different from a ship's deck. In fact, he found that he wasn't even near a body of water. [B]"What's going on?"[/B] He shielded his eyes from the sun. His arms were still heavy from the shackles, but he climbed out into the strange room nonetheless. [B]"Where am I?"[/B] [B]"Search me,"[/B] A boy's voice spoke up behind Charles. He turned slowly to find a white boy, dressed in odd clothing and carrying some kind of board. Charles was too confused to speak. The white boy didn't even speak like the owners he had come to known. [B]"Do you need some help?"[/B] He asked with an unfamiliar kindness. Without waiting for an answer, the boy had reached him and held out a hand, which Charles instinctively flinched from. [B]"I'm not going to hurt you,"[/B] Again Charles was confused, [B]"Name's Ash. What's yours?"[/B] Charles took the white boy's hand and heaved himself out of the strange hole in the ground that was once his holding quarters. The doorway dissappeared the moment they were through it. [B]"Charles, sir."[/B] he said. The sir, once agian, was instinct. [B]"Do you know where we are?"[/B] [B]"No clue, but it looks like you could use even more help."[/B] Ash said, pointing to his shackles. He stood again to fetch something from the far side of the room. Charles couldn't make out what it was, but it certainly wasn't a key. The boy put it into the keyholes of his shackels and fidgeted around a bit before dropping one chain after another to the ground, freeing Charles on a level neither of them could comprehend. Suddenly, Charles felt a sharp pang through his left shoulder. It was white hot and he doubled over in pain. Ash went to help. He laid the slave on his back, attempting to prop his head on one of his back-packs. The rich kid really had no idea what else he should be doing. He had only see that on TV. Eventually the pain passed just as quickly as it had come, and Charles regained mobility, being helped up again by the strange boy. [B]"We should probably get out of here,"[/B] Ash spoke after surveying the room. [B]"Yes sir."[/B] [B]"Cut it out with the sir thing, will ya? You look older than I am. My name's Ash. You should call me Ash. Okay?"[/B] He patted a hand on Charles's back and the began walking towards what appeared to be the exit. [I]You have the power to change your destiny. Only you can harness it[/I] Those words seemed to echo in the back of his mind as the two men exited the bright room into an even brighter exterior composed of gorgeous marble buildings. Charles remembered his grandfather telling him that every night just before he passed away. However, the part that caught his attention was the fact that the words his grandfather used to often in life, were now spokeng by a smooth female's voice.[/SIZE] [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-charles.jpg[/IMG][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-sureshotcard.png[/IMG][/CENTER]

[SIZE="1"][COLOR=#3D597E]Telumas had tired quickly of the watching her soon-to-be victims. She had tired even faster of the poor attempts to break down her strategy. Telumas had left the general area surrounding the pool used to view the mortals, and instead resolved to sit on the stone steps just outside the temple. She laid back her head, staring at the closeness of the sun and moon in the mythological realm. her beautiful grayhounds had sensed her exit of the temple and greeted her with wagging tails. [B]"Do you wish to continue the game, Telumas?"[/B] Paraxis had approached without her knowledge. [B]"Don't be rediculous."[/B] her bluetick hound sensed the resent in her voice, and accompanied the comment with a loud snarl at Paraxis. Telumas patted its head into silence. [B]"I do not requre constant viewing of the mortal pawns in order to carry out my strategy. A strategy which will unfold soon."[/B] [B]"Prideful as always."[/B] Paraxis was nearly scolding her. [B]"Only at the game that I rule."[/B] She corrected. the grayhound at her feet lifted its head to stare at Paraxis. [B]"Pride can only carry you so far."[/B] [B]"As the sea can only carry one from shore to shore."[/B] She retorted, for she had heard Jachym's supressed laughter from earlier. Paraxis sighed. He obviously didn't have time for this; his mortals were on the line just as much as her own. [B]"Do not worry, Paraxis,"[/B] she spat, trying to guess what he was thinking, [B]"If there are any new developments, I will be there."[/B] Paraxis sighed again and stood to leave. Both of the hounds watched him until he dissappeared into the temple completely.[/COLOR] [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-charlotte.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] [B]"Can I bring you anything else, madame?"[/B] Charles asked. It was Charlotte's personal servant, and one whom she cared for greatly. [B]"I don't mean to be rude, Charles, but could you fetch Sophia from the guest room?"[/B] [B]"Certainly madame,"[/B] he replied, but before leaving, he asked, [B]"May I ask why?"[/B] [B]"My dress no longer fits me and I require a seamstress."[/B] [B]"Miss, pregnancies often do that to a young woman. If you don't mind my saying, you should be celebrating this with your husband."[/B] [B]"Yes, Charles, but with Alexander attending the Estates General, he hardly has enough time for me. And I know he wouldn't want to see his missus half-way falling out of her dress."[/B] [B]"But if it's as you say, then the master won't see you. Surely the other women will respect a lady seven months pregnant."[/B] He was failing miserably to console her [B]"I am afraid, Charles, that the women will be more unforgiving than my husband. 'Nobility must act as such'." [/B] She quoted her husband's statement from memory. She knew Charles could sense the remorse in her voice. [B]"Yes, madame. As you wish, but if you don't mind my saying. I think you look stunning."[/B] And then, Charles left for Sophia. As soon as he was gone, Charlotte looked down at her large stomach and felt her child kick. She smiled at the thought of her future son or daughter. And then, without warning, a feeling of vertigo took over and Charlotte blacked out entirely.[/SIZE]