Darren

[quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]And I [I]love[/I] the implications that the majority of Christians are racist.[/FONT][/QUOTE] Did not mean to offend anybody, but how does that imply christians are racist? I didn't imply that at all. I mean, for the most part, my family is racist... And they're all christians. And everyone I know who lives in small uneducated towns in Arkansas and Oklahoma, (Which is in the bible belt) think Obama's the antichrist. But it's not because he's black. I guess the "Everyone" statement is a hyperbole, but surely you didn't think I meant every single person. After all, I live here and I think the exact opposite of most of my peer group and family. Sorry, get over it. It's an opinion based on my personal observations. That's what the lounge is for.

I saw a segment on CNN that not too long ago that was addressing this very subject. They interviewed a man from Alabama and he gave this quote: "The only change I ever saw a black man make, was carrying a cup." And my eyes bulged and I started think how that was the most ignorant thing I had ever heard. All the names of black civil rights activists began racing through my head, and I almost turned off the TV. It just makes me glad that it's not prejudiced people like that who actually make the decision. (It's all in the electoral college's hands) And wasn't there a conspiracy that Obama would be assassinated at the DNC??? So, I'm sure this is the first of many attempts. I actually heard that Obama already has the same number of secret service members as Bush does and it's going to double if he's elected. (For good reason) Oh, I also heard a funny joke (although I disagree with it) The reason why Obama chose Biden to be his VP was because no one likes Biden and everyone would rather have Obama than Biden. Or, if he's really the antichrist like everyone in the bible belt seems to think, he will be assassinated and come back to life. (But I'm atheist, so you already know my views on that theory. If it does happen though, I'll crap myself.)

I'm just going to answer the question in my opinion instead of getting involved in the debate that's going on here: I don't really see a unborn child as a person until they have a functioning brain and heart. I believe this happens sometime in the first 4-5 weeks? (Correct me if I'm wrong) If you ask me, 4-5 weeks is plenty of time for a woman to either find out or detect their pregnancy. (especially with early pregnancy tests now days) Especially if they're raped... I think that after that, however, it should be considered human... (Even scientists consider an embryo a fetus after 4 weeks)

[quote name='Gavin'][SIZE="1"]Oh and as far as I'm aware Raiha and I only adopted two kids, the infamous Siren/Papa Smurf/etc and Ezekiel so they'd be your only first cousins on this side. Which means then that Aberinkula is Indi's kid. :p[/SIZE][/QUOTE] No no, I'm sure Aber just spawned from the earth... Or hatched from an egg... Or mutated from a frog. I'm not exactly sure, but I know Inid would kill me if I implied she OB adopted that. :animeswea Let's just say that Aber is more like a pet that you really can't help but feel sorry for so you keep it around. :D (I kid)

[SIZE="1"]Well, my wife is Obviously [B]Trigun 11[/B], although she hasn't been on here in forever!!!11 Then, I can't say for sure that I have an OB mom or dad. How sad. I'm an OB orphan. But as for my brother: [B]Crimson Spider[/B]. Why? Because I don't get along with my real brother, so I'm just trying to be realistic and choose the member who I don't get along with the most. No sisters... (But I'm only saying that because I don't have any real life sisters) Crazy psychopathic aunts: [B]Indi & Raiha[/B]. Raiha because we've been chatting here lately. She's cool. And Indi because I'll always remember her as team leader of The Mercenaries from OB Survivor. And I guess, if Raiha's my aunt, that makes [B]Gavin[/B] my uncle... Since they're married. Strange cousins: [B]Vicky, Calypso, Aberinkula, Omega, P.J. McKrafty,[/B] and many more that I can't think of for various reasons. (Of course, this isn't to imply that Raiha and Gavin got busy and had these children. I just think of them as adopted cousins or perhaps spawned from primordial ooze? who knows)[/SIZE]

Listening to OKGo... I'm not a big fan of theirs, but I'm not feeling too well today and I thought I needed something more upbeat. Plus, anytime I hear "Here It Goes Again," I always picture the music video and that makes me smile. :D

[CENTER][SIZE="3"][FONT="Impact"]Part 2: The Wall[/FONT][/SIZE][/CENTER] [SIZE="1"][FONT="Book Antiqua"]The night travel was strange for Henry. Not just because he wasn't used to riding in a wagon (as he and his grandfather always traveled on foot with a wheelbarrow at their front) but also because he had never ventured this far out of Udaya. And yes, the thought also crossed his mind that he was traveling with Violet. But then also remembered that he was literally surrounded by hundreds of military personnel. He tried to sleep most of the night, but found himself walking along side the wagon in the chilled air. The military paid him no attention. Perhaps it was their way of reconciling for giving his village hell all week, but Henry thought it was something much worse than that. Finally, he went to lay down in the wagon as it rolled on toward the wall. He still wasn't able to sleep though, as Mrs. Stanley was constantly crying as she steered the horses all night. [B]"Henry,"[/B] Little Delilah's voice penetrated his half-sleep state. [B]"We're almost there. It's time to wake up."[/B] A small sliver of light was shining in from the back of the wagon, telling him that it was just passed dawn. He awoke, still groggy from lack of rest, but nonetheless he crawled out of the wagon and pursued the rest of the members who were creeping along the road. It seemed that his village had met up with several others as there was now well over 200 people walking along-side him. He glanced from person to person, trying to figure out which one's were chosen in the lottery and which one's were family members of the chosen. It was so hard to tell as they all looked either so depressed or so excited. He spotted Violet up ahead of him, she was walking with James, her arm wrapped around his shoulder. Henry could tell even from behind that she was sobbing. At first he thought it would be best to remain back, but James turned and spotted him, giving a look as if to say 'Help Me,' so he interrupted. [B]"Hi. How are you?"[/B] He thought it was stupid even after he had said it. First her father was taken by the lottery, and now her brother. Henry wondered if any of those tears were for him. [B]"I'm okay,"[/B] she lied through her sobs. Trying not to give away the obvious. [B]"You don't look okay."[/B] [B]"Oh, Henry,"[/B] she said, throwing her other arm over his shoulder. Now he understood that James's look was a plea for help. [B]"I just can't bear to lose anyone else. I don't know what I'm going to do."[/B] [B]"You're going to live."[/B] Henry's grandpa interrupted. He was walking siletnly behind the trio. [B]"It's the least you can do,"[/B] he said, [B]"Live with the memory of your father, your brother, and Henry and never let us die. I'm sure one day that we'll all be reunited."[/B] It was a morbid thought, but it seemed to cheer Violet up a little. She stopped crying and nodded in agreement. [B]"These are our last moments,"[/B] she said, [B]"What do we do?"[/B] Henry paused for long while, deep in thought. Then, [B]"Enjoy it."[/B] [B]"You two promise me to look after each other. Take care of each other. You are like brothers now, and when I finally get chosen, I want to see that neither one of you has killed the other."[/B] It was a joke, but Henry somehow felt as though she were speaking of the future. As though it was an omen of what was to come. [B]"Hey everyone, we're here!"[/B] Delilah exclaimed. She was really too young to understand what was going to happen. She pointed toward the now obvious wall. It was terrifying and inspiring at the same time. vines crept up it's ancient body. Small boulders lay on the ground from where the top had been falling away. And dead ahead, was a large wooden gateway that would lead James, Henry, and his grandfather to their future. They made an abrupt stop as the military officials spoke again. [B]"This is as far as family members may go. I'll allow you 20 minutes. Say your goodbyes and then all lottery winners need to approach the gate immediately. We'll be crossing the barrier as soon as all 700 winners have arrived."[/B] So this was it. [I]Goodbye Udaya. Goodbye Violet. I always loved you.[/I][/FONT][/SIZE]

[quote name='Calypso'][COLOR="Sienna"]Darren.............I'm so sorry I've been slacking. This is my first time doing two rpgs and it's hard enough managing and posting in my own. Sorry. I'll do my best to post, but I won't be posting everyday, that okay?:confused:[/COLOR][/QUOTE] That's fine. But please, just try to cover the remaining objectives in your next post. (And please try to have it up as soon as possible. Preferably tomorrow) Part 2 is up. This chapter will be extremely short. Objectives: [B]1) disperse of any family members (if they traveled with your character) 2) Meet and greet with the other players' characters (this one is optional) 3) Cross the great wooden barrier to the other side. Feel free to describe it however you want. The first person to describe it however shouldn't be too crazy. And the following players shouldn't go against what the first person said. I'm giving you free reign to do whatever on this third objective because the characters won't be there for long.[/B] This shouldn't take but one or two posts. So have at it.

[SIZE="1"]Yay! Time for pictures. Congratulations to all of you. I have forgotten to post a picture since way back in high school. So you get 6 months of picture catching up to do. Don't worry, I won't post all of them [URL="http://img46.imageshack.us/my.php?image=imgp2485mm2.jpg"]1st[/URL] That's me and my mom at some Baccalaureate thing a week before graduation [URL="http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=antiquelookaq7.jpg"]2nd[/URL] Night before I left for college. The photoshop effects are simply to make a statement that I finally escaped!!! [URL="http://img184.imageshack.us/my.php?image=photo36ps5.jpg"]3rd[/URL] Me with my bestest friend. Also the day before I left. [URL="http://img184.imageshack.us/my.php?image=photo38tw1.jpg"]4th[/URL] An awesome photo that I achieved with my macbook effect and very well placed 3-D glasses from the movie that I had just seen. (Journey to the Center of the Earth 3-D) [URL="http://img48.imageshack.us/my.php?image=n12572137401003342612la9.jpg"]5th[/URL] My first experience with rain on campus... It came unexpectedly and my dorm was on the other side of campus, so I improvised. I was pretty proud that I thought of it, as you can tell by my face. [URL="http://img76.imageshack.us/my.php?image=n1544910199303638775169hd5.jpg"]And 6th (last)[/URL] Me and my friend. We were going to her sorority's date party. (Glow Bowling) I only wish I had the photos of when we were there. They were so awesome! But you'll just have to deal with this one. See? That wasn't so bad. You enjoyed it, didn't you?[/SIZE]

[quote name='Calypso'][COLOR="Sienna"]So it doesn't really makes sense because it's something like "seperate but equal" which goes against the word "free" altogether.:animedepr[/COLOR][/QUOTE] Actually, I think you've summed it up pretty accurately. That's why many states are now recognizing civil unions between gay/lesbian couples... And even though I had never thought of it before, separate but equal could be used as an example of what's going on here since the government is trying to say civil unions are equal to marriage. But just as it was during the civil rights movement, "Separate but equal is inherently unequal." Now, if only that argument made it's way to the supreme court... :rolleyes:

[quote name='Andrew'][size=1]I'm more than likely gonna get hanged for this post, but hell, what the hey right? To quote CHW, "Live and let live." So, after a conversation in work today I got really curious. When a guy decides he's gay/bi/whatever, is it a conscious decision to start talking/walking like a woman or something that develops naturally? Seriously. I'm all for gays and lesbinans, so long as they respect the fact that I'm straight and really not ever gonna be different and don't get all gay up in my face.[/size][/QUOTE] *hangs you* But seriously, I agree with Time Chaser that the majority of gays and lesbians don't choose to be gay. (That's not to say that some don't choose) And I will tell you that only the really flamboyant gay men actually act like a woman. They're what gives homosexuals a bad name. More than likely, you've run into (or perhaps even known personally) a gay man and didn't even know it because he didn't act really flamboyant. Not all gays are like that. :rolleyes: [quote name='chibi-master']Oh yes, I was wondering...does anyone here know a homophobe? I'm not talking about people who think homosexuality is wrong, but people who scream or something when homosexuals are even mentioned. I've never understood why there would be any need to get freaked out by gays or lesbians or bisexuals...[/QUOTE] I live in Oklahoma. [The Bible Belt] So... I'm sure you know what I'm going to say. My whole opinions on homophobic people are that they either A) Think that gays are simply attracted to all men and don't want to be hit on by another man. (And it's funny especially when that homophobe is really ugly) B) They think that gay people can turn them gay. (Which I guess that can happen, but still, I find that to be uneducated) or C) They're closeted. [quote name='Clurr'][FONT="Arial"]I get very angry whenever I hear someone say "that's so gay," or call someone a "***." It's common in high schools, I'm assuming everywhere. I don't understand how that could be funny. It's just ignorant and disrespectful. What else is new.[/FONT][/QUOTE] Calling a gay person a "F**" is as bad as calling a black person a "You-know-what," in my opinion. Unfortunately, not everyone in this world finds the word as taboo as I do. And just the same way, I know someone would get jumped if they ever said you-know-what to a black kid, I'd totally kick someone's you-know-what if they ever directed that word at me in a derogatory manner. But I don't mind saying, "that's gay." I used to say it all the time, but now I say "That's lame," or "Lamesause," or "FAIL!" etc. I don't really think it's offensive at all. Again, I can only compare this to African-Americans. Gay is what people call homosexuals not to offend just the same way that black is what people call African-Americans to avoid offending them. And in the same context, coming from Oklahoma, I have heard the phrase "That's so black." (Of course, there's a difference because when someone says "that's gay," they usually mean stupid or unfair. When someone says "that's black" they're usually talking about actions that stereotype and degrade the black community.) But other than that, I don't see how the word "gay" is offensive. I don't see how the word "black" is offensive. I actually know a couple of black kids at my school that got really mad when I referred to them as African-American. Some people don't mind either words. And anyone who makes a big deal out of those words is just looking to cause a confrontation. (Especially when the person who said it didn't mean anything negative by it)

[FONT="Book Antiqua"][SIZE="1"]The festival was as Henry had expected. It was, for the most part, a waste of time. Every year it seemed that it was getting worse. The hay-rides, bake sales, and games for the younger citizens nearly came to a halt this year. It probably had something to do with the military's increasing presence in Udaya each year. Of course, Henry was only able to attend the festival for a few minutes, most of which he spent with violet while helping her family with their booth. And just as the day had seemingly come to an end, they were all forced to gather in the town hall for the lottery selection. Citizens flowed in, one by one, stating their names to the military officials so they could mark them off an attendance list. Before this lottery, Henry was forced to wait in the balcony in order to watch the processions, but this year was different. He walked in, stated his name, and then but his personal lottery ball into the large box at the front of the room. Before long, every member of Udaya that was of age, was crowded into the small building. Some were forced to sit up, while others had to stand just outside the hall, craning their necks in order to see the military official at the front. Henry sat silently, close to the back, holding his grandpa's hand in order to give him support. The man spoke with a booming deep voice, going over what everyone already knew about the lottery. How the selected seven were to report the the military base immediately after the ceremony, how family members may travel with the selected, but only until they reach the wall, and how all families of the selected were given the option to change village sights if they wished, without any hassle. But Henry wasn't listening. He had heard it a thousand times before. Instead, he was focused on Violet. She sat a few rows in front of him with the rest of the Stanley family with Delilah in her lap. The first name was called, but Henry didn't hear it. There were shocked gasps and uncertain applause, (as was common during the lottery) but Henry didn't care about anyone's reaction but Violet's. She just sat there, rubbing Delilah's arm as if to protect her. The next name was called. Again, Henry didn't hear and Violet didn't move. The third name: No reaction, but then something happened. Something that he did hear and it snapped him out of his trance. [B]"James Stanley,"[/B] The fourth name rang through Henry's ears. Violet began to cry. The gasps and applause were drowned in her tears and it seemed that the entire world might explode. The fifth name was called, but Henry didn't hear it. he stayed focused on Violet. Suddenly, she turned around to stare at him. Tears were streaming down her face even harder than before. He felt his grandpa squeeze his hand, and he turned to see the sorrow in his eyes and knew what had happened. Henry Mathys was the fifth participant in the lottery. The sixth name was called, but now Henry simply couldn't hear over the sound of his beating heart in his head. He could feel the blood rush to his face and felt the sorrow emitting from his grandpa. [B]"And last, but not least,"[/B] the military official stated over the dying applause. [B]"Bill Mathys"[/B] And now Henry felt him squeezing his grandpa's hand. They shared a look of mixed fear and relief that they hadn't been separated, but they were still going across that barrier." [CENTER]----------[/CENTER] Henry woke up in cold sweat. He was breathing heavily, and couldn't see in the darkness. [I]It was just a dream,[/I] he thought, but he couldn't shake how real the dream was. Henry fumbled around in the darkness, feeling for the lantern that was beside his bed, but was met with another sleeping body. That's when he realized that he wasn't sleeping in a bed. He crawled to a small light at the foot of his resting area and opened the tarp to reveal that he was on the Stanley family's wagon. He and his grandpa were traveling with them, along with James, to the wall. The moonlight was shining on each of their sleeping faces. Mrs. Stanley must have been steering the wagon as she was the only one absent. It wasn't a dream. Henry, his grandpa, and his fiancé's brother would all cross that mysterious barrier in a day's time.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[quote name='TimeChaser'][B]"Love is love, sex is sex, love =/= sex."[/B] I see a flaw in this. When two people are in love and emotionally intimate with each other, that intimacy can be expressed through physical means, i.e. sex. The two do not have to be mutually exclusive.[/QUOTE] That's exactly what I've been trying to say from the very beginning. I think there's a communication error on someone's side. (I was going to suggest myself, but since you seem to be on the same page, I offer up Crimson) The entire argument seems to be a contradiction to me. (and yes, I guess the debate about gay marriage is off topic from one of sexual orientation being right or wrong, but it's all-encompassing) It seemed, at the beginning, Crimson was against sex in general because it was all about lust. After that was cleared up, it was implied that only heterosexual couples could truly love each other and that's why gay couples should not be allowed to marry. When I questioned him, he even admitted that gay couples (he pointed out lesbians, in particular) have the capacity to truly love each other without the need to have sex. So I ask: "What's so wrong with it?" You can't have both Crimson. Either you say that gay couples can truly love each other, and admit to the fact that the only reason you don't want them to get married for whatever reason. (I can't find the exact post in this monster thread, but I believe you said something about taxes) Or else you say that they can't truly love each other. Either way, it seems that you've caught yourself and no matter which stance you choose, it makes you seem like the bad guy and somewhat makes the point of what everyone in this thread has been advocating. That judging someone based on their sexual orientation is wrong. Denying them certain rights that are protected under the constitution is wrong. And now just for my general statement (And then I'm done with this thread, I swear) : I think it's funny how the majority tends to point the fingers at homosexuals and tell them that they're wrong. But the ruthless means that they use to degrade, demean, and diminish homosexual is the biggest bag of hypocrisy I've ever heard. The fact is. It took a while before white men without property, black men, and then women were able to attain their equal rights. If anyone thinks it stops there, they obviously don't know very much about life.

[SIZE="1"]I know I said I wouldn't post here again, but I'll take a biased approach and attempt to make sense out of some of the arguments that I don't understand.[/SIZE] [quote name='Esther'][FONT="Franklin Gothic Medium"][SIZE="1"]The logic you state here doesn't make any sense. Of course you're the enemy towards their freedom. Of course homosexuals unfortunately face discrimination and probably will for a very long time but by people like you advocating their oppression you're also advocating against their pursuit of happiness which, as stated in the Declaration of Independence, is an inalienable right of man.[/SIZE][/FONT][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Unfortunately, I have to agree with Crimson Spider on this topic. You can't use the pursuit of happiness to justify gay marriage. Why? Because gay couples can be happy without getting married. Furthermore, if they really want to get married, they can go to California or Massachusetts and get married. (And due to the fact that states must recognize laws from other states, you could live anywhere in the country and be a happy married gay couple even if that state doesn't allow it.) Also, I can't remember the exact court case, but I just recently learned about it in Government. There was a case that stated freedom of anything (speech, religion, petition, etc) is restricted if it harms the majority at large. And as we can all agree, the majority feel that it does harm them, for whatever reason. Sure religion plays a role in that and we can't deny the fact that a lot of Americans feel that it harms them simply because it goes against their religion. Fair? No, but it's the majority. Lastly, both of our presidential candidates have stated that they agree with equal benefits for gay couples. No, this doesn't include marriage, (Which I personally, think is a contradiction) but it does include (if I'm not mistaken. I wasn't paying full attention to the debates) naming your partner as the designated caretaker at hospitals, receiving the benefits of marriage. The only difference is that you don't have a little piece of paper signifying your union, but when you consider the divorce rate in this country, who cares if you have a paper. It's actually better in my opinion because it makes the "break-up" a lot simpler.[/SIZE] [quote name='Crimson Spider']Sex =/= love. Same Sex marriages are for the condolences of sexual acts and lifestyles. Someone can "love" someone else regardless of any sexual interaction. To bring any relationship onto a sexual level, that is a choice that has to be made. BTW, I consider a lot of heterosexual marriages incorrect as well, for they commit the exact same lust-based infatuation and pathological fulfillment. In fact, those relationships came first, and then homosexual relationships begin to receive support from the extension of this idea. Of course, just as I have never met an alcoholic who admits that they drink too much, I have never met a homosexual that admits that his actions are about an unfulfilled need manifesting into a sexual desire. [/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]This is the part that I don't get. I agree with you on the point that you feel gay marriage infringes on your personal rights, but you bring up the definition of marriage. I understand that the country defines traditional marriage as a union between man/woman due to it's Judeo-Christian beliefs, but it seems that your personal definition is a union between two people who simply love each other. Is that about right? You've said repeatedly that "Sex =/= Love," and I agree with that statement whole-heartedly, but let's also not forget that humans are one of the few mammals on this planet that engage in intercourse simply for pleasure. Not everyone can deny their primal lusts and instincts simply because some consider it immoral. But that's really beside the point. I personally believe that love leads to sex, but it's not necessarily for reproduction. if a married couple wants to have a child, yes they do have sex, but they also have sex simply for pleasure. Are you implying that it's always wrong to have sex (even for a married couple) unless you have the intent of reproduction, thus making it wrong for gays simply because they can never have kids? I'm just trying to understand your personal definition here because your views are very confusing. You've even said here:[/SIZE] [quote name='Crimson Spider']I see your statement, and I do think I should have made the distinction for gay relationships as well. Two men who "love" each other don't necessarily have to have sex with each other, either. There are going to be couples that are based more on compatibility than on the physical nature of the relationship, and in fact this seems to be the dominant type of relationships in lesbian relationships. But... love and sex are not the same. You can have a relationship without having sex. Just the same, you can have sex without a relationship. I am not talking about love. I am talking about sex, and sexual preferences. Also, you can't just throw your hands up in the air and cry prejudice whenever your beliefs face criticism or are challenged.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]So, if I understand your definition of marriage correctly, this statement implies that you're okay with gay/lesbian marriage as long as the relationship is really based on love rather than sex/lust. If that's the case, then the previous statement is a contradiction. Also, I believe what Vicky, Esther, and I are talking about here is sexual orientation, not preferences. Yes, I believe there is a big difference, but that's a debate for another time.[/SIZE] [quote name='Crimson Spider']You [i]can[/i] help someone to cease being a homosexual. It has been proven and practiced many times. Also, the opinion that I have about homosexuals is tailored from personal experience, literature, and from trials of fire.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yes, you can. Through brainwash and mental torture. For the homosexuals who actually chose to be gay, I think it's vastly experimentation and they're never really gay; just bicurious. But I believe that there are some people who are born that way and statistics have also proven that the methods used to cure someone of homosexuality either fail or the homosexual in question revert back to their old tendencies later on in life.[/SIZE] [quote name='Crimson Spider']Oblivious? No. However, it is accepted in the medical community that there is a substantial lack of information regarding same-sex parents and the effects that they have on their children. You see, I have met plenty of people who live out healthy lifestyles after dealing with single parent homes, or step parents that ritualistically molest the child. The number of factors attributing to problems is numerous, and is also largely the responsibility of the person who experiences them. I still maintain my stance that the dichotomy of opposite gender parents is the best environment to raise a child, and statistics have agreed with this.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Obviously, statistics will show that the straight couples show more promising results in raising a child. The reason is simply because nearly every family has a mother/father, (step-parents included) whereas two men/women families are fairly recent and looked down upon by the majority. For the statistics that aren't biased, the rest can be attributed to the fact that the numbers aren't available to compare to the "regular" families because the American government has made it difficult for that to ever happen. There have also been statistics showing how divorce, abuse, etc. can really effect a child. The numbers show that while gay parents' children may face a harder childhood, children of "regular" families have a harder time coping with life after they've left home. So again, there's no accurate way to prove either side of the story, and the statistics have shown that the only reason why children of gay couples face a rough childhood is because they're bullied in school and that point has already been covered by Esther and Vicky. Really, I don't see the need for the argument. Things will change eventually, regardless of what Crimson Spider and the numerous other people I know believe. It's just going to take time. Views change throughout history. It's not going to stop here.[/SIZE]

Glad to see you're back, DW. :D But, not so much to see that I'm dead. Although I did lol when I was axed. Perfect as usual. Can't wait to see the ending.

Not a big deal, as long as we get this thing rolling. I just wanted to say that I'm leaving for home in about 20 minutes and I won't be taking my laptop with me, so that means I won't log back in until tomorrow night. But this doesn't mean that you can't go ahead and post. In fact, you don't even have to wait for Vicky's post. Just dive on into the festival. (Vicky and I will just have to play catch-up) I would like to start the new section by Wednesday at the earliest, just to give you guys a timeline. When I post on either Saturday or Sunday, Henry will already have been to the festival and the Lottery. (So, you get the idea of how fast-paced this is supposed to be) Anyway, have fun. And I want to see some posts when I get back tomorrow night!!! :smirk: [B]EDIT:[/B] Well, obviously, this isn't moving as fast I would have liked. I'm still waiting for the mention of about 6 characters to be drawn in the lottery and start moving toward the wall... Some hasn't even posted after their introduction. A lot of you told me you wanted to join because it was going to be short. But it can't be short if you don't post. So I need Vicky, The Endless, Omega, and Calypso to post soon or we'll simply move on without you. And I need either Raiha or P.J. McKrafty to at least mention the lottery soon. I'm thinking I'll make the new post by tomorrow. (That's your deadline) But obviously, under certain circumstances (just post here or send me a PM) I would consider pushing the post deadline until Sunday at the latest) In any case, this will weed out some of the less dedicated members and allow for the RP to finish short and on-time.

My hair is currently varying shades of brown and gold (It's natural too)... Unfortunately, now that the summer months are over, it's going to be losing that blonde tint to it and turning an ugly shade of dark brown. (and what appears to be gray) Meh, I'll get over it. It will go back next year I've dyed my hair only once: Black (I was going through an emo phase back in my sophomore year in high school) I hated it though, so I'm glad it's all back to normal As for length and style: I used to prefer it as long as my mom would let me grow it. (Which, looking back, I'm glad that she made me cut it at certain points) It really looked gross and trashy when it was that long. But now, I prefer it shorter. I'm going to guess about 3 inches long. And I don't really style it. My hair stays however I want it to whenever I wet it, which is fine because I like the messy style anyway. But on random days, I'll put it into a fohawk or an emo style when I'm feeling sad. But mostly just bed head. As for what's attractive: It doesn't matter on guys as long as they're not bald or military cuts. And on girls, I like curls a lot. And even though it's rare to find these days, I love girls with afros!!! I don't know why. :animeswea

[SIZE="1"]And it's much deserved anyway, Vicky, since I am way past my posting deadline. :animesigh Anyway, part 1 is up now. I'll be posting the objectives in the underground thread throughout the RP, so as to avoid any OOC discussions in the main thread. It's pretty straightforward:[/SIZE] [B][U]Objectives:[/U] Introduce your character Explore your village's festival (or whatever it's lottery tradition may be) Attend the lottery (and make sure your name is drawn, obviously) And make your way toward the wall[/B] [SIZE="1"]All the characters will meet outside the wall before passing through its gates, but don't jump ahead too much. There will be plenty of time for meet and greet between characters in Part 2. All that being said, since this is supposed to be a quick RP, I think everyone could finish their objectives in 2-3 posts. Especially considering that most of us aren't in the same village and don't need to consult with each other as far as conversation goes. Good luck and have fun! [B]EDIT:[/B] Also, I know this may seem like a drag, but for those of you who couldn't sign up with an image, (for whatever reason) would you mind doing so? I just want to make a graphic for the RP, but I would like to get images from everyone. If this isn't possible or you just don't think you could find an appropriate one, I could help search (based on your descriptions)[/SIZE]

[B][CENTER][SIZE="4"][FONT="Book Antiqua"]The Lottery[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE="3"][FONT="Impact"]Part 1: The Selection[/FONT][/SIZE][/CENTER][/B] [SIZE="1"][FONT="Book Antiqua"]Henry awoke rather early on Sunday evening. Even more so than usual, given the demanding military presence. He started breakfast for his unwelcome guests, figuring that they would know how to fix themselves a plate on their own. Afterwards he headed outside to complete his morning chores. The village of Udaya was certainly not one of the smallest villages in the GNC, but due to the flux of arrivals from past citizens, it seemed like a circus had gone through town. Many of the older citizens set up camp in small tents just outside the building where the lottery was to be held and the smell of camp fire and cooked meat still lingered in the early morning air. Henry sighed. The countdown had begun. Only 24 hours until the decision was mad. Seven of these villagers were going to be chosen and taken from their families forever across the wall. Henry couldn't even imagine what was over the wall. He had some hope that perhaps his father was wrong and it really can't be anything bad. He tried to convince himself of this at night when he tossed and turned in bed. [I]'why would the GNC want to hide something from the villages unless it was really bad?'[/I] He would constantly mull over that very question as he worked for his grandpa. The question was really, why would the government want hide anything at all? Just as he expected, the hens didn't lay any eggs, therefor securing his fears that he and his grandfather wouldn't eat tomorrow. At least the military personnel were moving out of their hosts' homes after breakfast. But still, the fact that the Mathys farm had been struggling only led to a shortage of food later on. He finally decided to visit his neighbors and ask them from some bread. The Stanleys were a small, but thriving family of bakers. They had two daughters, and a son. Henry was actually arranged to marry the eldest daughter Violet just last year before her father was taken from by the lottery. Due to the stress it put on the Stanleys and the fact that Henry needed to focus on taking care of his grandfather, they postponed it. Henry still maintained a steady relationship with Violet, and he was good friends with the boy, James. As Henry approached their small shop, he could smell the freshly baked bread and knew that they were awake. He knocked twice before promptly letting himself in. [B]"HENRY!"[/B] squealed the youngest daughter, Delilah. She swung her arms around his neck, embracing him the biggest bear hug a six year old could give until her mother reminded her of proper manners for a young lady. She sighed and ran off into the back room. [B]"Well hello Mr. Mathys,"[/B] Meredith was wearing her usual contagious smile. It actually surprised Henry how well the Stanleys were doing considering that they had only been without Mr. Stanley for a year. [B]"What can I do for you?"[/B] she asked, handing him a freshly baked roll from the oven. Henry was sullen, despite Meredith's demeanor. He hated asking for favors. [B]I know I said this wouldn't happen again, but the hens... They're not--"[/B] [B]"Don't you worry about it, son. I told you last time that if you ever need anything, don't feel bad to ask. You know, we've all taken a liking to you and your grandpa Bill. We would be glad to give you anything you need."[/B] He blushed at such blatant forwardness from her. She really was almost like a second mother. [B]"Thank you,"[/B] he said, not raising his eyes to meet her. He felt ashamed for asking, but this is what he had to do in order to get by. [B]"I think just a loaf of bread should do it."[/B] [B]"Anything you want, darling."[/B] She wrapped up a fresh loaf of bread and handed it to him. Before he left, she raised his chin, so he could look her in the eyes. Her hands were coated in a layer of flour. [B]"Don't you worry about it. You're family will get through this."[/B] He smiled at her and turned to leave, but before he reached the door, Delilah had burst back into the room with the rest of the children. Rose, (16) James, (19) and Violet. (22) They all greeted him with care and then Violet offered to escort him back to his house. She wanted to see how his grandfather was doing anyway. The sun was beginning to rise over the horizon, forming a perfect arch on the east side of the village. An obvious outline laid in the distance forming the ominous wall that seven winners would pass through very soon. [B]"Are you excited?"[/B] Violet chimed in when she noticed that Henry was quiet. [B]"About the festival, that is?"[/B] She knew of Henry's distaste for discussing the lottery. [B]"I suppose, but it only means that we're closer to the lottery."[/B] He addressed the issue anyway. He didn't like hiding his feelings from Violet. He felt like she could handle any emotion that he presented. Violet understood this. [B]"This year, we're setting up a lotto-wheel, where you can win all sorts of pastries and baked goods from our store. You and your grandpa should come by when you get the chance. I'll be working it with Mother most of the day."[/B] [B]"I'll do that."[/B] He quickly replied, although they both knew it wouldn't be for long. In Bill's current state of health, Henry had to spend most of his time taking care of him, and the other hours were spent worrying about how he was doing while Henry was away. Violet and Henry both cherished the little time they could spend together. They only needed to wait a bit longer until they could finally be together. By the time Violet had said hi to Bill and began leaving, the GNC troops had made their way out of the house. (Without being too quiet) They gave him compliments for the good breakfast, which he thanked them for with a fake grin. The sun was finally fully risen when she left Henry alone with his grandpa, but she promised to see him soon. (After seeing his grandfather, Violet understood that it would be unlikely for Henry to visit her during the festival. [B]"Tell your mom I said thanks for the bread."[/B] [B]"She already knows,"[/B] she replied, mockingly, [B]"But I'll have you know that I work there as well."[/B] [B]"I apologize. Thank you for the bread, Violet."[/B] [B]"You're very welcome, Mr. Mathys."[/B] and then she left Henry with only his thoughts and anxiety of what was to come.[/FONT][/SIZE]

Sorry about that everyone. I know I promised a post by tonight at the latest, but some unexpected business came up and I lost track of time... FAIL So, I will definitely post the first part tomorrow (or tonight since it's 1:30). Expect it, and if it's not there by 7:00pm, feel free to bonk me on the head. (Unless you're in a different time zone [Vicky] because that would be unfair)

I'm looking for a banner and avatar set featuring the characters from Tsubasa. I would prefer Syaoran over the others, but whatever looks good is fine. All creative freedom goes to the artist!!! (Yay!) Any words, color schemes, etc... Just have fun with it. And if there are multiple entries, I'm going to choose the one that looks most clean (and unique) The only thing I ask is that prominent feature on the Avatar continues to be a large "D," like the one I have right now. Thanks in advance -D

[quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium]Okay so I've got a new post up now. Sorry for the delay, guys! I'm really on the cusp of a new Landmark, but I felt that I needed to post a little bit more before going ahead with that. So my [i]next[/i] post will introduce the Landmark. This post is still part of the System Error Landmark. As you can see, things are getting crazy again. My post took place over several stages of the day, so please don't feel compelled to only post about the current emergency - feel free to write about whatever time period you like in your posts. As mentioned, my next post will introduce a new Landmark. I expect it will be the second-last Landmark in the RPG.[/font][/QUOTE] Okay, I'll post tonight. Excited about this because your post provided the perfect scenario for me to work on. EDIT: Sorry, I unexpectedly made plans. I guess it will have to wait for tomorrow when I get out of class.

It is funny, but I don't think it's something you can easily forget about. Especially since it's extremely likely that you know the person. On the other hand, it could be completely random people. (Trust me, I've done that before) But I understand the need to get back at someone. Not necessarily by involving the police, but to wreak your own version of neighborhood vigilante crime. In my high school neighborhood, we had car tagging wars. (Using window chalk. Not spray paint) People would sneak out at night and go and tag others' cars. It was harmless (since the stuff could easily be removed) and others often joined in, tagging our cars back when they found out who did it. Of course, due to the fact that some idiots took it too far by tagging teachers' and parents' cars, and the fact that some people can't take a harmless joke and began slashing tires for revenge, the police outlawed entirely. (We couldn't even have the stuff on our cars for game days) So, when you find out who did it, have fun, but don't let it go too far.

[quote name='Crimson Spider']Of Darren's. He states something that I admit annoys me VERY much to this day, and I have hinted at my distaste for the ideology a few times. I am someone who does not think you should just accept an opinion or act for the sake of diversity. In particular, against the phrase "there is nothing wrong with the need to have full body ink". This is something that I do not agree with.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]And this is why, Crimson Spider, that I believe we'll never get along. Apparently I annoy you, and you've personally greatly offended me twice in two separate threads. (Probably without even realizing it) And by the way, I don't appreciate parsing words. If you're going to quote me, either take the actual quote or state that your paraphrasing. (Which, in this case, fails entirely because I never said that or intended for my words to come across like that) And the fact that you don't think you should "just accept an opinion or act for the sake of diversity," makes you stubborn, hard to agree with, and somewhat prudish. I really wish you would get it through your head that most (if not all) people with full body ink, aren't doing it for the sake of diversity. If that's the case, then they're failing miserably since there's hundreds (if not thousands) of others out there who also have a lot of tattoos. The reasons they do it cannot be understood (nor determined) by someone with a biased and uneducated opinion. That's the only argument that I've seen crop up multiple times. [B]Pro says: "We don't mind" You say: "I do, because it's wrong to an extent" Pro says: "That's your opinion" You say: "Exactly"[/B] (and then proceed to attempt at ramming your ideas into our brains... Unsuccessfully) Furthermore, you have no right to claim when someone has crossed the imaginary line for over-excessiveness. Again, it's all your opinion: We are confused at the blatant stubbornness and close-mindedness, but we still accept your opinion. (No matter how flawed we think it may be) It seems that you are the one who can't drop an argument until everyone is crystal clear on how you think and why you think that. Just a heads up: That's never going to happen. [/SIZE]:animeangr

Okay, sign-ups are closed! Thanks for all the posts, everyone is accepted! I'll start the new thread either today (Saturday) or tomorrow depending on how my skydiving excursion goes. (If it goes too badly, you might not see the thread at all, :P) Anyway, I can tell you that the first post should be an introduction to life in your village. In addition describe your festival (or not, if you don't want your village to have a lottery festival) and Lottery drawing. (You may conduct the lottery in whatever creative way you choose) Just remember, that your character must be chosen. Anyway, if this is going to be the short RP that I intended, we'll need full cooperation, I don't want to have to wait for a week for one person to post reply in order to move on. (If that's the case, I'll find a creative way to "deal" with that character) so when the new landmarks/objectives appear, I request that everyone reply in a timely manner so this can be over in a couple months. (Maybe less if everything goes according to plan and we don't have any snags) As for some of the secrets to your sign-ups, I will tell you that gender, age, and color will all play a role in how your gameplay will happen. (But you'll just have to wait and find out exactly how it effects you when the game starts) Thanks again, and I hope you all enjoy the story.