Rachmaninoff

In the same room where the monitor that was following the progress of the subjects in the Maze was, a lower part of the screen came to life as it began to set up the parameters of the next challenge, getting things ready for what was coming. Even as it also kept track of those who's status had changed from active to deceased. Rearranging the names so that each was in the proper group. Then the section that was preparing the next challenge was ready, the words in green clearly stating, [B]Preparations complete, awaiting confirmation of removal of unnecessary elements in order to implement changes.[/B] A number of the remaining subjects who were still listed as active were moved to a new section with the status [B]Termination in progress[/B] to the side of their names. [CENTER]---------------------------------------------------[/CENTER] Lara was feeling a bit strange. She didn't know how to explain it. Since she had witnessed what she thought was Alden being torn to pieces she had been so terrified that it had been hard to think. But now, once she had gotten use to being around Alden again she was feeling strangely calm. As well as strangely attracted to him. It really puzzled her since though she did think it was cute, now was definitely not the time to be distracted. She tried to feel alarmed about it, but she couldn't help but feel a bit dazed and as a result she started relying on Alden as he seemed to know where to go and how to avoid the traps. She had long since finished the water he had given her and gratefully accepted more when he had taken advantage of what appeared to be a water fountain to refill both his and her bottle while she sat down for a bit. Though the open domes with what had to be a type of some mall with open areas and closed shops was rather fascinating . It was also creepy to be the only two people there. And good lord! Just how big was the damn place anyway? It seemed like they had been walking for hours and yet each new section was yet another shopping center in a dome that was part of a space station. Lara could even see other parts of the place through the clear view of the dome. Lara hadn't even realized that she had sighed until Alden spoke up. "[B]Don't let it get to you.[/B]" He told her. "[B]As hard as it may seem you've got to stay alert.[/B]" Though Alden just smiled at the thought since he knew perfectly well that since she had consumed all of the water, and that he had included more of the drug in the refill, it wasn't possible for her to be more alert. "[B]I'm sorry[/B]." Lara said. "[B]I'm just worried that we won't find a way out. And I've been here long enough that I'm starting to get really tired. And I'm scared since I'm worried that if I find a spot to rest, this place will kill me in my sleep.[/B]" "[B]I'm a little tired too.[/B]" Alden lied. "[B]Perhaps it would be best if we find a spot to rest and take turns keeping watch. That way if something happens the other person can wake them up in time.[/B]" Though Alden wasn't worried about himself. His scanner would alert him of danger. Just as it had when he had been too drugged to realize the danger he and Rebecca had been in. "[B]I hadn't thought of that.[/B]" Lara said ruefully. "[B]We'd better stop then because I'm starting to feel really dazed too. I think that blue light did something to me since it's been far worse since I was brought here.[/B]" "[B]Then I'll look for a spot with no traps, even an hour or two is better than no sleep.[/B]" Inwardly Alden smiled. He would not be caught off guard a second time. And if an opportunity presented itself, he would be foolish to not take it. Even if she wasn't as pretty as Rebecca was.

[QUOTE=Sojiro47][COLOR=DarkGreen]Ok, so here is a question that has been burning my mind for the last three weeks: What [i]is[/i] divorce's affects on the children/teens of these families? I know that we are an opionated group of people, we otako-kun, so I expect to see mixed results, but what have you observed. Are there any apperent affects in your students, children, siblings, ect... I, myself, am I child of a divorced family, but I haven't actually looked for any affects on myself or friends, but others have commented. [/COLOR][/QUOTE]I don't think there is a set effect of what divorce does to a family. My parents are still together, but I have friends who have divorced parents and the situation varies so wildly that it's kind of startling. I have one friend that for all intents and purposes their parents are completely nuts, using the kids to fight and bicker and attempt to hurt their ex, regardless of what it does to the kids. I have one friend that other than missing her dad since she spends more time with her mom doesn't seem all that bothered by it. And yet another that other than the occasional fight, they are happier now that their parents are divorced since their parents fought all the time when they were still married. So though I won't argue that it is hard on the kids, I'm sure that attempting to stay together can probably be just as hard on them as the separation is. I certainly hope my parents stay together and unless they are hiding it they certainly don't behave like they have any issues. If anything sometimes the two of them are a bit sappy at times.

Hmmm...And here I thought DeathKnight was just being funny. Since I did chuckle at his post. Especially since I'm good at sticking my foot in my mouth instead of making sense. lol As for the questions for this thread: [B]1. Any fads here?[/B] Beats me, honestly it does. Even though I feel like I've been here forever I'm not sure what I would consider a fad for this place. [B]2. Who are the most famous members?[/B] Again I'm not sure, though it's safe to say that members like James, Desbreko, Dagger and Sandy are quite recognizable. As well as a few others. Like DeathKnight. And many more that would make the list quite long. [B]3. How long have you been here/Myotaku?[/B] Well I joined myOtaku first on 05/02/06 no less so it's been a year. But I didn't wander over to OtakuBoards until the middle of December of last year. So I've only been here for four and a half months. ;)

Sorry it took me so long but here is mine. [B]Name:[/B] Sergei Rach [B]Gender: [/B] male [B]Age: [/B]16 [B]Special Skills:[/B]Sergei's power is similar to Kathy's in that it is tied to music, only in his case it manifests by him channeling it through playing an instrument. He can use melodies and tones to destroy non living matter. He uses a variety of smaller instruments that are easy to carry around. [B]Description:[/B] Sergei is just under six feet tall with light blond hair and blue eyes. [B]Personality: [/B] A bit reserved and shy. He's a bit of a romantic though he tries to hide it from others as he worries they will think he's a sissy. [B]Short Bio: [/B]Sergei discovered that he could manipulate tones when he was a child. Accidentally destroying the family car when he was playing with a recorder he had gotten as a birthday present. Later after his parents tried to hide it he was finally sent to Cheshire High. He was paired with Kathy since his teachers are having them work on combining their unique talents together. Something that he enjoys doing. And since it looks like our first twist is on us I'll get working on a post. I should have one up sometime today. ;) [CENTER]-----------------------------------------------[/CENTER] [B]EDIT: [/B] I don?t know about you guys, but even though we have a new twist with the Principal of the school missing and the Titans have been doing an excellent job of working with our characters, I?m worried that posting again, especially since the LOL?s have only posted once since the new twist and the Argo?s haven?t posted at all, would make it appear that we are dominating the field. Something that Sandy clearly told us not to do. So even though I?ve got some good ideas, unless you guys think I should post. I?m going to hold off for now.

[QUOTE=Sandy]I have to say I admire your imagination with the traps, Kathy. I really had to read your post thoroughly to understand just what the heck Eflair, Lara and Davis were experiencing, but it was impressive nevertheless. The description of Liam's death was original in the sense that it was told from a perspective of an entirely different group. Great stuff! ;D[/QUOTE]I must say, I agree, even if I did have to read it twice Kathy to realize that they were on a walkway above the others. It was completely unexpected to read about them being helpless when they saw Liam die. And how you had the Maze cruelly keeping them apart was well played. ;)[quote name='Darren']Sorry guys, I'm still trying to get around on the posting bit... Forgive me, I've been extremely busy... And I'm overloaded with homework and work and all that stuff... It sucks. I'll try to get a small post in & use the transport card... The death requires too much time and I hope to get around to it by tomorrow. Sorry again.[/quote]No need to apologize since each round lasts about a week and it's only Wednesday. So there's plenty of time till Saturday or Sunday to get in the post where you kill a character off. [QUOTE=2007DigitalBoy][COLOR=DarkOrange]i find it hilarius that Alden and Rebecca had sex. When I split the group up the first time, i put Alden and Lara together alone for the sole purpose of making them have a sex scene, but Alden was killed before i could. I'm glad someone made it happen, lol! Both Jennifer and Liam dead before I even got home from school! How is it that you guys went a whole day without anyone posting then all of you got in within a 7-hour preiod?! In any event, this party's getting crazy, and the evil guy seems to be really popular. i can't wait to have my turn with him, hehe...[/COLOR][/QUOTE]I think it's quite funny as well since I included the S rating to leave it open for this but I didn't think someone was actually going to write that sort of thing into it. lol And from my prospective it's rather interesting to watch and see just which characters end up being more popular as several of them, including the evil warlord, are getting quite the character development. [quote name='2007DigitalBoy][COLOR=DarkOrange']And adding onto that, at this point there are definitely players who have no characters left seeing as there are so few left living and I doubt it would be that each player has 1 character alive and 1 dead. I'd REALLY like to know who's got no one under their belt.[/COLOR][/quote]It is definitely possible that each person still has a character alive, after all due to the chaos of the creation cards it's possible that there are players who have two characters dead and one still alive. However there are still two death cards to be played so only time will tell. ;)

[quote name='Sandy]By the way, [B]Rachmaninoff[/B'], would it be possible for you to add the three characters created with the Creation Cards to the list in the first page of the game thread? It'd be good to have a quick check list on everybody in one place.[/quote]Thanks for brining that up since I originally planned on it and then forgot. So I have now added a section for creation characters to the first post of the main thread. ;) [B]EDIT: [/B]I have now added some graphics to make it even easier to keep track of who is dead and who is alive in the main post of the game. Each character now has a status card next to them showing if they are Active or Deceased. I'll update it each time a character dies. Or is Time Shifted like Alden and Rebecca were.

[quote name='SunfallE][COLOR=RoyalBlue']Anyway, once a few more relevant posts are made I'll get things headed towards the next set of events. [/color][/quote]I hope you don't mind that I went ahead and started working on setting up the next part. I mean, I assume that one of the relevant posts you are referring to is the one with Sara and Glen and their reaction to the whole thing, but Mariskah hasn't been on for nearly two weeks so it seems kind of pointless to keep waiting when she hasn't been here for the rescue of both Darren and Sandra, the attack on the base, or the capture of both Jason and Celestia. It's not like she can't post their reactions as a flash back or something.

Kerstin hummed contentedly as she stood on the balcony of her suite, the view overlooking the ocean was as always enchanting. She especially loved how it looked when the view included that of their main home world where the High Council was. It always gave her such wonderful ideas on what to paint next, she was already working on one of her brother Darren to surprise him with. Even if he was always fidgeting in his new uniform he looked positively adorable in it. It would make a wonderful present to give him. Especially since in less than a month he would be coming to sector one. He had contacted her earlier to let her know. The horrible resistance who had taken him prisoner in the first place had been dealt with. And though she understood that there were still members of the resistance on the planet in sector thirteen, it was all over the news how the military stationed there had eliminated the last of what had been three hidden bases there, capturing two of the most wanted criminals in the entire Versilan Empire in the process. It was no secret that the elimination of the three bases as well as the capture of the wanted criminals Jason and Celestia was due to the efforts of the Empire's newest Elite Specialist Kiva Salqarian and her crew Daego. At least it wasn't any more since the High Council had formally announced to the people that the resistance presence in sector thirteen for all intents and purposes had been dealt with, giving Kiva and Daego credit as well as declaring the bounty on the two criminals as closed. Kerstin wondered just what Kiva and Daego, were going to do with the reward. It was unreal what the High Council had been offering to pay for the capture those two. She wondered just what they had done to be wanted that badly. After all surely the rumors that they had written a program that disabled a battleship was just a rumor, wasn't it? Kerstin turned from watching the view of the ocean and reached up and pulled the binding keep her hair up free, allowing her blond hair to fall to it's usual position of halfway down her back as she walked back into her room. In the end it didn't matter, that now the most wanted criminal in the Empire was a former Commander in the military, a Daniel Landers, who ironically was the father of Celestia. It didn't matter since Kerstin was not a bounty hunter, though she did enjoy keeping track of who was wanted and how they were caught. And she had been especially fascinated by the one for Jason and Celestia, especially since it was forbidden to have children with those of the lesser races. So for a bounty to be on a member of the lesser races as well as one who was a half breed was unheard of. She glanced at the half finished portrait of Darren sitting in the corner of her workshop in the other room just off the main one, it was coming along nicely just as other paintings she was working on that were also in the room. A soft breeze entered the room tugging at her hair and she turned and walked back out onto the balcony, enjoying how it teased her hair as the cool air was soothing. It was almost dark out and the first hints of stars were beginning to appear on the horizon. In a little while she would change into one of the elaborate ball gowns she had made for herself and pull her hair back up. There was an old fashioned ball being held and she wouldn't miss it for anything since just like the view inspired her so did seeing what the other artists created. Kerstin turned and went back into the main room and then into her bedroom slipping out of the clothing she was wearing before pulling out the dress and getting dressed. It was a simple matter for her to then carefully brush her long hair and put it into place. She had become quite skilled since she often did the same for those she was painting portraits for. Then at the sound of a chime indicating her escort was at the door she left and went to answer it. She couldn't wait until Darren arrived. Even though he did not care for dances she was sure she could convince him to attend at least one with her.

[quote name='2007DigitalBoy][COLOR=DarkOrange']^^;; Sorry! I had completely forgotten! The moment I saw your name under 'The Maze' i went Osnap~! I have edited that thingy now. Sorry for the trouble >_< [/COLOR][/quote]No worries. Besides you've been providing helpful lists of who's dead and who's in what group so it's easy to forget one detail among all of that. ;)

[quote name='Aaryanna_Mom']Dual Death Cards!? Good grief! o_O I take it that the card Sandy just played is the twist you spoke of? Well that certainly changes the game a bit![/quote]It is. ;) I thought it would be fun to play with how the deaths could occur. Also, 2007DigitalBoy, if you could edit your recent post in the main thread to include the transport card along with the one for Liam, that would be perfect.

[B]OOC:[/B] Time for a secret card to be played. This time two people have been issued a Creation Card. This special card allows one of the players to add another character to the game and thus increase their chance of winning. ;) [CENTER]--------------------------------------------[/CENTER] [CENTER][IMG]http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/1930/creationcardjc5.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://img464.imageshack.us/img464/2127/17yb9.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Clavis [B]Gender[/B]: Male [B]Age[/B]: 28 [B]Race & Origin[/B]: Unknown, Sacred Bird Cosmos in the year 2032 [B]Occupation[/B]: Guardian of Darkness [/CENTER] [CENTER]--------------------------------------------[/CENTER] When Davis and Vanya had continued, Davis had been feeling the desire to exact revenge for what had been done to poor Rebecca. But in no time at all as they went through what seemed like endless corridors that changed to a desire to simply get out of this place. But when they came across yet another sleeper his curiosity got the better of him once again. This time the person was an adult and as they sat up looking at both Vanya and Davis their eyes full of questions Davis didn't know what to say. "[B]Who are you? Where am I?[/B]" The man asked both of them. "[B]I am Davis, this is Vanya. And for all intents and purposes we may as well be in hell.[/B]" Davis said bitterly. The man merely raised an eyebrow at that statement and got out of the sleeper, taking a moment to adjust his long flowing robes before talking to those he had just met. "[B]I am Clavis, Guardian of Darkness, from the realm of the Sacred Bird.[/B]" Clavis said as he carefully folded his arms. "[B]Now just why are you referring to this place as hell, are you servants of evil? If so I warn you, I will not lend you my power.[/B]" "[B]No, no![/B]" Davis said hastily, "[B]What I meant is that this place is full of lethal traps.[/B]" He paused as he choked up a bit. "[B]Two of our companions have lost their lives already.[/B]" Davis continued, explaining all that had happened. "[B]I see,[/B]" Clavis replied. "[B]Then we must find the caretakers of this realm and put an end to this evil.[/B]" "[B]You're pretty trusting ,[/B]" Vanya snorted. Clavis just raised an eyebrow at that. "[B]Obviously you do not understand what a guardian is. For someone like him,[/B]" he indicated Davis. "[B]It is easy to sense that he tells the truth as he knows it. You on the other hand hide what you are behind layers and layers of defenses. Though I do not sense any initial malice. So for now I will trust that the two of you are indeed who you say you are.[/B]" "[B]I'm easy to sense huh?[/B]" Davis said. "[B]Maybe later once we get out of this place you could explain to me just what you mean by that.[/B]" "[B]If you wish.[/B]" Clavis said simply. [CENTER]--------------------------------------------[/CENTER] [CENTER][IMG]http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/1930/creationcardjc5.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://img464.imageshack.us/img464/7266/16gd3.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Deoky Shilos [B]Gender[/B]: Male [B]Age[/B]: 25 [B]Race & Origin[/B]: Darkchild / Belagosi Cosmos [B]Occupation[/B]: Evil Warlord [/CENTER] [CENTER]--------------------------------------------[/CENTER] Jennifer, Lara and Eflair were feeling quite depressed as they continued. Especially Lara. It had caught her by surprise to see those she had thought were from her world based on their uniforms and technology, also had the ability to use telepathy. Even Jennifer had not expected it and the result had nearly killed them all. All of them were glad to finally reach the end of the valley Jennifer especially as she practically ripped the door to what appeared to be an underground cavern off it's hinges and entered. It came to no surprise to them when the door closed and vanished, leaving them no where to go but forward. But when their eyes adjusted to the more subdued lighting it was to find a sleeper in the middle of the room. A young male sleeping inside. But when he opened his eyes and the sleeper opened to let him out. Jennifer pulled back with a hiss. Even as she looked for an exit. "[B][I]This one is untrustworthy, we should leave immediately.[/I][/B]" She told the others mind to mind. "[B][I]I can hear you wench![/I][/B]" An unknown male voice spoke clearly to all of them in their minds. "[B][I]You have not told the others all that you are either, probably the only one here who is trustworthy is Lara.[/I][/B]" Startled Lara pulled back looking wildly for an exit but seeing none. Was everyone and everything here crazy? She kept her hand on the hilt of the gun she had tucked into her pants. "[B][I]I have no intention of harming you child,[/I][/B]" Deoky Shilos said to Lara alone. Making it clear that he had spoken only to her. Then he addressed them all as he got up. "[B][I]I am Deoky Shilos, Warlord of the Belagosi Cosmos. It is not necessary for you to explain why I am here as I have read your minds. At least that which you have not hidden from me. I know that none of you brought me here so I propose a truce. Each of you has power that if we used it together will aid our chances of getting out of here.[/I][/B]" [I]Powers? What powers?[/I] Lara thought. [I]I don't have any powers. Not like Jennifer who killed those men or Eflair who healed my wound from earlier.[/I] "[B][I]You have your gun,[/I][/B]" Deoky's voice whispered in Lara's mind and Lara's mind alone. For a long moment they all stared at each other until finally Jennifer nodded. "[B][I]Very well, it seems we have no choice.[/I][/B]" "[B][I]Good, then let us start by finding the exit to this tomb.[/I][/B]" Deoky said. He glanced at Lara projecting his thoughts once again to her and only her. "[B][I]Don't worry, I'll protect you.[/I][/B]" He smiled inwardly to himself. Lara was a bit confused. Why was Deoky insisting on speaking on occasion to her only? And better yet, how was it that she could tell when he was doing so? His touch on her mind felt strange, unlike Jennifer and Eflair. What in the world was going on?

[quote name='Fasteriskhead'] The height of the series so far has indeed been the Rachmaninoff concerto [/quote]Did I hear you correctly? [silly question, of course I did, but still] Which one did they use for the show? You've certainly got my curiosity going. I didn't know they were using Sergei's music in it. I've heard about it [from DB] but everything I've found indicates its far from being released in the US. :animesigh That just bites. I guess if I want to watch it I'll have to look around and find a fansub of it or something like that.

[quote name='Darren']Question: Aren't we supposed to make an introduction post before killing someone off, or did that only apply to the 1st round?[/quote]Sorry if I wasn't clear enough, but that only applied to the first round. The only main rule for this round is that death cards cannot be used with another card. So using the transport card must be in a separate post. So the first death involving Neheb is official.

Even his encounter with Jared a few days ago wasn't enough to keep Darren upset for very long. As he continued with the work he was responsible for his mind kept going back to the conversation he had with his sister Kerstin after he had been rescued by the Elite Specialist Kiva and her crew Daego. A small part of him had been frightened at the prospect of being locked up for months or even years since he had thought that recovering him wouldn't be very high on the list of things to be done. And now that he had been in contact with Kerstin on a regular basis, the idea of having contact with her cut had been painful. She was one of the few people he cared for. But fortunately he had been wrong and seeing her troubled face change to one of tearful joy when she realized that it was indeed him contacting her had been a bittersweet moment. And to his relief, just as he had hoped, Jared had made sure to keep her informed. As much as Jared frightened and disgusted him, Darren couldn't deny that when he had been held by the resistance it had comforted him to know that Kerstin would be seen to. Hopefully the remaining resistance base would be dealt with and soon. Darren wanted more than anything to leave Earth and to get back to his work as a merchant. Though he would be required to spend time in sector one first. He had been quite angry when he learned about it, but now, he was looking forward to it since Kerstin was on Reflection. Easily within transport range of the High Council and where his office was located on the main planet. He hadn't seen her in person in well over a decade. She was far more social than he was, but in a way he was looking forward to her dragging him around once he got there. Darren pulled his mind back to what was going on to check the updates. Sandra had finally been found and rescued as well and things were running smoothly in spite of what had happened when the attacks that had resulted in both of them being taken prisoner. So far it looked like they didn't have any other high grade explosives or weapons, though Stevens was taking no chances, nearly a third of the troops stationed in sector fourteen had been shifted to Earth. The additional troops had easily brought things back under control and replacing all the facilities that had been destroyed was well under way. As well as starting construction on the remaining ones that were required for the US. If only the resistance could be dealt with. Things were close to being done enough for Darren to be able to leave Earth and head to sector one. It would definitely be worth dealing with the High Council if it meant getting away from Jared and getting to spend time with Kerstin. For the first time in quite a while Darren smiled.

[quote name='Rachmaninoff] [B']Death cards cannot be used in conjunction with other cards.[/B][/quote]I am sorry 2007DigitalBoy but you are going to need to modify your post since the rules are that Death cards cannot be used in the same post another card is used, even if the person transported did not die. Neheb will still be quite dead but Andrew is still with the others. I'm sorry if I was not clear enough on this since the point of saying you couldn't transport someone to their death was to make it so those cards would be used separately.

Well now that the base has fallen and Jason and Celestia have been captured, it's time for me to introduce my second character to the mix. Let me know if this works SunfallE since I can always tweak it if you want me too. ;) [B]Name:[/B] Kerstin Anderson [B]Age:[/B] 46 [B]Gender: [/B] Female [B]Race: [/B] Versilan [B]Loyalty: [/B] Versilan [B]Description: [/B][URL=http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/6510/kerstinty3.jpg]Kerstin[/URL] [B]Weapons:[/B] Other than to know how to use the most basic of laser and disruptor weapons, Kerstin has no special weapons skills. As a civilian she has never needed to learn anything beyond the basics for simple safety. And even then she has never even handled a true weapon. Only holographic representations of one. [B]Special Skills:[/B] Kerstin is an artist. Her specialty is in creating ancient attire for the nobility as well as then painting by hand, portraits of said nobility (as well as other wealthy Versilans) wearing the outfits she created for them. In addition to that work she also paints pictures of different cities and older long gone ones as well. She also converts her work into digital art for those who are not interested in owning the real deal. Kerstin?s greatest talent is that once she has seen a face she can paint a portrait from memory of the person in question. [B]Personality: [/B] Cheerful and sunny, Kerstin has always been outgoing and forward. [B]Short Bio: [/B] Kerstin is currently attending university in sector one on the moon called Reflection by the artist community. Like her brother Darren she has cut all contact with her family, especially since her brother was given the position of being the shipping expert for the High Council and thus the Versilan Empire. She thrives on social contact and spends quite a bit of her spare time running around with new friends she has made since she started school.

All right! Congratulations since everyone survived the first round! Those who have special cards for this round have now had them sent to them except for one card that everyone gets for this round. And that would be the Transport Card as you can see here: [B]Transport Card:[/B] [img]http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/369/transportcardxe4.jpg[/img] Everyone can use this card once during this round. And by during this round I mean that if you do not use it, the card expires at the end of the round if you don't use it. The rules for the transport card are simple, for any reason you can transport any character to another location in the Maze. You can transport them out of danger or into danger. You can not transport and kill them in the same post though. Death cards cannot be used in conjunction with other cards.[B] Remember all death cards issued at the first of the game are good for one use each round. [/B] Anyway, here are the remaining players now that I have used my life card and the one issued to one of the players. As for the twist I promised, when the first special card is played you will see just what I had in mind. Let the killing begin! ;) [B]Remaining Characters:[/B] [IMG]http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/1192/03ri6.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Lara Servas [IMG]http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/7640/04mv1.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Liam Linche [IMG]http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/8458/05zi8.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Jennifer Caldis [IMG]http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/3991/06dl5.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Andrew Whitaker [IMG]http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/530/07uv4.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Alden Courtney [IMG]http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/3160/08th6.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Eflair Shishinn J?nea [IMG]http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/2673/09fc1.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Davis Henderson [IMG]http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/1696/11qx1.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Fredrick Shavask [IMG]http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7427/12zi2.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Vanya (42623-05) [IMG]http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/8725/14pw8.jpg[/IMG] [B]Name[/B]: Rebecca Lynn [IMG]http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/5083/15ix3.jpg[/img] [b]Name[/b] Neheb

[CENTER][IMG]http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/7197/roundone02hr0.jpg[/IMG] [/CENTER] Deep within the Maze and yet separate a huge monitor easily the size of a small house was lit, divided into sections following the progress of those who were inside the Maze. In the bottom lower right hand corner each person's name was listed in bold glowing green letters: [B]Deloras Belanders[/B]: Deceased [B]Samik Specis[/B]: Deceased [B]Gustaff Meldrachen[/B]: Deceased [B]Ambellina Prise[/B]: Deceased Just under that were two other names in bold glowing green letters: [B]Alden Courtney[/B]: Time Shift In Progress... [B]Rebecca Lynn[/B]: Time Shift In Progress... The rest of the names displayed in a similar fashion with the words Active to the right of their names. Indicating that they had survived the first Challenge. Then just on the other side of the room two sleepers opened both of them occupied... and the words Replica's completed flashed on the screen before fading. A bright light surrounded the bodies and then they were gone. The words, final Time Shift In Progress... flashed on the screen, over a section showing a split view of both Alden and Rebecca right before they died. Time stopped in both locations as each body was surrounded by light. Then on another screen in a different room altogether the light reappeared, dropping both the unconscious Alden and Rebecca in the middle of the room. Their wounds fully healed. Time started flowing again and those who had been there when they died did not realize that what had been torn apart and crushed was but a replica of the original. Then another change occurred on the screen before the section indicating it was Challenge one changed to Challenge two: [B]Alden Courtney[/B]: Time Shift Completed, Status: Active [B]Rebecca Lynn[/B]: Time Shift Completed, Status: Active New rules were put into place the words flashing across the screen as each one was implemented. Then once they were done the words indicating what they were faded from the screen and it went back to simply displaying the people as they moved through the maze. [CENTER]----------------------------------[/CENTER] [CENTER][IMG]http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/8714/lifecardqd5.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/8725/14pw8.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/8714/lifecardqd5.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/530/07uv4.jpg[/img][/CENTER] [B]OOC:[/B] Congratulations on finishing the first round. In addition to my life card I have also used the life card issued to one of the players to revive a character.

[quote name='SunfallE][COLOR=RoyalBlue]And now my post in regards to the attack is up. I'm sure it's quite clear at this point as to why I agreed with Rachmaninoff's assessment that the resistance is totally screwed at this point. Things are going to start getting interesting! :catgirl: [/COLOR][/QUOTE]You know, it sucks to be right! o_O Though once I read this part of Takuya's post:[QUOTE=Takuya][color=darkslateblue'] Hopefully, they would still be able to come out of this with some important prisoners.[/color][/quote]I was beginning to wonder just a bit. At this point I would say the resistance is beyond being screwed. Having both Jason and Celestia captured as well as losing the base is going to be a huge setback. At least for Earth that is. Man! Now I'm wondering what's going to happen to both Sara and Glen! I'd worry about Daniel but if he was with the transportation equipment it's doubtful that he'll be caught. I'm so clueless when it comes to guessing what will happen since I didn't think they would end up catching Jason and Celestia. Especially since they got warned a bit sooner by the power surge alerting them to the danger. Giving them extra time to get clear. And seeing that they are now trapped in the conference room...I just don't see a way out for those two.

[quote name='2007DigitalBoy][COLOR=DarkOrange']The sense of hopelessness grows with each death -- how will the poor contestants survive?! Only further posts can tell...[/COLOR][/quote]Indeed, and when the next round starts, something that will happen either Sunday or Monday, there will be at least one new twist thrown into the game so be prepared! ;)

[COLOR=DarkRed]Sergei had gotten extra assignments as a result of skipping classes the other day. Not that he minded to much. It wasn't often that he got to sit with Kathy without anyone else around. He wasn't about to admit it to anyone, but he loved her pretty voice and getting to work with her. Even when she only spoke it was calm and soothing, without any hint of shrillness. He didn't know how to explain it. But he could hear the tones in her voice since they were similar to what he controlled when he played the simple pipes he always carried with him. He hadn't even realized that he was daydreaming a bit until Bethany poked him in the side. "[B]Hey you! At that rate you'll end up going hungry since lunch is almost over. So quit spacing![/B]" Embarrassed Sergei pulled his thoughts back to his friends. Every chance they got, him, Kathy, Alexandra and Bethany always shared lunch together in the cafeteria. "[B]Sorry, I was thinking about this morning's lessons.[/B]" Alexandra rolled her eyes, "[B]You mean our[B] [I]boring[/I][/B] lessons.[/B]" "[B]Maybe for you, but I like my lessons.[/B]" Sergei asserted since he had worked with Kathy for his last class that morning. Bethany giggled, "[B]Only because you get to work with Kathy, just the two of you and only the teacher. I'm sure Kathy would [I]never[/I] use her power to put the teacher to sleep![/B]" "[B]Bethany![/B]" Kathy protested only to blush slightly when Bethany and Alexandra started singing loudly... off key no less. [INDENT][SIZE=3][B]Two little love birds sitting in a tree... K-I-S-S-I-N-G! First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes the baby in the baby carriage![/B][/SIZE][/INDENT] "[B]Would you two quit that![/B]" Sergei pleaded when other students started watching to see what the commotion was. Bethany and Alexandra just collapsed into wild bursts of laughter at both Kathy's and Sergei's pained expressions. Finally stopping a moment later. "[B]Okay! Okay![/B]" Bethany said as she wiped tears out of the corner of her eyes. "[B]But you should have seen your expression![/B]" She giggled a little more as she finally got up at the sound of the bell. A moment later as they were heading for their next class, one that they all shared, Sergei found himself chuckling a bit at what they had done. It was funny, now that he thought about it. But when he entered the class only for the teacher to make a serious announcement about the principal of the Cheshire High, Alexander Moebius, having gone missing, he forgot all about Alexandra and Bethany teasing him and Kathy in the cafeteria. How in the world could the principal have gone missing? He could hardly wait for classes to be over so he could discuss it with the others. [/COLOR]

I must say, since I do not kill off characters it is rather interesting to see not only how their personalities are developed as well as just who ends up dead. Only two more deaths and this round will be complete. Just who will Aaryanna_Mom and Darren target? Hmmm? And I'm in agreement with some of the others Crystia, that death you wrote up was intense. And creepy as hell. ;)

Darren hadn't even been back on board the Creator for a day when the chime of an incoming message sounded in his quarters. Since he had already talked to Kerstin and briefly reviewed a few things, he was not expecting anyone to contact him. He was still under orders to take a day off. The chime did not indicate that the message was of high priority and he could simply ignore it, but in the end his curiosity got the better of him and he went over and sat down to take it. To his surprise it contained an update just for him. Darren didn't usually get updates, at least not from the system designed for the fleet and the military. His usually came straight from sector one. But nothing could have prepared him for what was contained in the update. Even though the actual contents were pretty harmless, it still chilled him to realize just what they were. He would have no choice but to report it to Jared. Darren could be mistaken but it represented a serious breach of security. Regretfully he contacted Jared who indicated that he would come to his quarters immediately. Darren thought about changing from his simple pants and shirt to a uniform but changed his mind. He was considered off duty and he hated wearing the damn thing. [I]Hell,[/I] he thought with frustration. [I]I know they meant well but now Jared will end up seeing what's in those communications. [/I] Something that unless the military had been lying to him was considered private. He gave the command for the door to open when the chime indicating someone was there sounded, and without hesitation Jared joined him at his desk. Darren groaned inwardly, even though he was glad to finally be free he was less than thrilled to have to deal with Jared again. "[B]So Darren,[/B]" Jared asked once he had situated himself. "[B]What's this breach of security that you were telling me about?[/B]" Darren pulled up the update and showed it to him. "[B]This just came for me. The problem is that I saved those transmissions to my hand held computer and then deleted them from the workstation here.[/B]" Something that was common practice for personal communications. "[B]So unless I'm mistaken this means that the resistance hacked into my hand held computer that they took from me as well as into the update system to send them to me. If they got this information then I'm sure they must have gotten the report I was preparing for the High Council in regards to William and the fragmented reports.[/B]" Jared took a look and then paused turning to Darren, "[B]You do realize that I will be required to check these transmissions correct? A breach of security overrides your privacy when it comes to personal communications.[/B]" Darren looked away, "[B]I know.[/B]" And for most of them it did not matter but some of it had been about Jared. Darren carefully clasped his hands together in his lap. As much as he did not want Jared to see it, not reporting the breach would have been even worse. "[B]Good, since contrary to popular belief the military does respect the privacy of the citizens.[/B]" Darren just nodded, refusing to look as Jared started checking the transmissions and playing the ones that were both visual and audio. It was profoundly embarrassing and in the end he would have rather lost the transmissions permanently. Especially when one part played: [INDENT][SIZE=1]"[B]By the way, will you thank Jared for me? I know Daddy and the merchants think he's a sick bastard and all, but since you started working for the military at Earth he's kept me informed as to how you were doing the whole time. Jared even made the arrangements so I will have the security clearance to call you anytime I want.[/B]" She smiled. "[B]I don't know why you guys don't like him, but he seems nice enough to me.[/B]" Kerstin smirked, "[B]Unless it's because he likes guys instead of girls and you are adorable Darren. Even if you are a bit of a prude.[/B]" Darren felt himself flush hotly. "[B]Kerstin![/B]" He protested. She just giggled at him again. "[B]I'm just saying! After all Jared is pretty damn adorable as well. And unlike Daddy I'm not narrow minded or a prude. Anyway, I really do need to run. Take care Darren.[/B]"[/SIZE][/INDENT] Darren couldn't help it he flushed just as hotly as he had when Kerstin had talked to him then. Something that once Jared had finished he still hadn't gotten under control and though he had not laughed when he heard that part of the communication Jared did have that amused look that he always got when Darren was flustered. "[B]I've sent a copy of this to our computer specialist to take a look at it. I doubt that he will find anything, but you are quite correct this is definitely a security breach. Though we've already known for quite some time that the resistance has been hacking the update system.[/B]" That was news to him! Though once Darren thought about it, he realized that it wasn't surprising. It would make sense to use what ever methods necessary to get information. "[B]Anyway,[/B]" Jared continued. "[B]You were correct in contacting me immediately. We also suspected that they possessed the ability to get around high level security and this update they sent you confirms it. It's my guess that either Jason or Celestia sent this to you since Daniel would know better.[/B]" Darren hadn't thought of that. He just assumed that they were trying to be nice since they had to have known that personal communications like that were often stored on one's personal hand held computer. Most citizens did it. Transferring such information before removing it from the main communication system. Jared started to move to get up and stopped. "[B]There is one other thing Darren,[/B]" he said. Darren cringed a bit since Jared was definitely smirking at him. And the look in his eyes... "[B]Your sister is correct. You are adorable.[/B]" Jared leaned forward until their faces were nearly touching, "[B]And if you weren't such a [I]prude[/I]...I'd give you a much better welcome back than a simple statement.[/B]" Darren thought his heart was going to give out as it pounded painfully in his chest and his cheeks turned even redder.[I] It's never going to end,[/I] he thought miserably as Jared got up and left his quarters. [I]So long as I'm stuck here on the Creator he will never leave me alone. [/I] Once the doors had shut and he was alone he unclasped his hands, and looked down at them not even bothering to try to still the trembling and shaking. The only question on his mind was would he be finished here before Jared finally did as he wished with him? Darren took a deep breath in an attempt to calm his nerves.[I] I wish Crystal would tell him to get lost. [/I] It was a thought that did little to comfort him since he already knew she would not.

I'd say that all of you are being pretty damn secretive about it. :p Takuya hasn't even hinted at how they are going to get in the base, SunfallE has her characters going about their business as usual, Aaryanna_Mom left things open in the sense that Daniel hasn't even gotten the message yet. Hell! Her post may not even be the same day that Sandra was rescued! And you indifference, aren't much better! You mentioned the next transport, but failed to say when it was coming to Salt Lake City! LOL! I'm just holding my breath waiting to see who kick starts the whole deal. As well as wondering what's going to happen since Mariskah is even more mysterious since currently we haven't a clue as to what Glen and Sara are up to. Hehe, in the mean time, since Jason and Celestia were so kind as to send Darren the transmissions he had saved with his sister, I'm going to go and work on a post regarding that. Time to have some fun since a breach of security like that is bound to involve Jared. Poor Darren!

It really was a shame Lara thought as she followed closely behind Alden though the dense jungle they had come to. That a place that seemed so wondrous had turned out to be so deadly. It reminded her of silly horror science fiction shows she had watched as a child, but only far more real and deadly. Someone had to have built it but the question was why? She half expected to see camera's following their progress, feeding it to god knows who, but if there were, it was in a form she did not recognize since other than the first room they had woken up in she had seen nothing that looked like a camera or speakers. "[B]You don't suppose someone is watching us?[/B]" She asked Alden. "[B]I'm sure there is, though I have not seen anything.[/B]" "[B]If you haven't seen anything then how can you be sure?[/B]" Lara asked as she shoved aside some of the larger leaves in her way. "[B]Simple logic, a place like this doesn't build itself and even if it's only a computer, something has to maintain it.[/B]" Lara couldn't help but shiver. Even if Alden had given her a gun to defend herself with, she had never used one before. Working as a simple clerk in a sports store was hardly a good way to prepare someone for something like this. Though she did jog for exercise and was at least in good shape. But when they finally came to a brief clearing in the vegetation only to face a small lake she wondered just how big this station they were in was. It seemed to her that they had somehow been transported elsewhere. The clear view of the sky as well as what appeared to be mountains in the distance confused her. Was it an illusion? Once again Alden continued without hesitation, taking the left path along the lake shore. Staying clear of the water and yet close enough to use it as a guide. [I]I really hope he knows what he's doing[/I] she thought.