Rachmaninoff

I hope you all like how I ended it. XP Also, even though the game was frustrating in some respects, it did end up being fun. Though I think I'm going to take a break from these types of rpg's for a bit. But then I was planning on that already with my Christmas vacation starting soon. Anyway, I enjoyed playing it with all of you. :catgirl:

Celesta had not expected to be the last one remaining at Earth, deep down she lacked the utter ruthlessness that some of the others had. A fact that had been clearly shown through out the trial as time and time again, deceit and trickery had come into play, threatening more than just the lives of the mortal souls chosen to play as champion to the gods. And though Charlotte originally had not been hers, she was now and it was time to finally set into motion those plans she had already thought upon, but had not expected to see to come to pass. Especially once Enora had arrived from the future. With the softest of sighs, ones of relief, Celesta summoned her heavenly home and her champion, Charlotte. [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-charlotte.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-kennethjunior.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/6098/husband01es2.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Charlotte was still holding Kenneth Jr. when the world around her spun and she found herself standing all alone in the gardens where Kenneth had died. "[B]No,[/B]" She cried, "[B]I don't want to be here, I don't want to be in this place.[/B]" She looked up to see Celesta standing before her. "[B]Please, I already said that I would rather be dead.[/B]" "[B]True,[/B]" Celesta replied serenely. "[B]But before you make that choice, you must be aware of all that it entails.[/B]" Celesta turned and traced a path in the air, until much like when Charlotte had been with Jachym underwater and he had shown her the others talking. Celesta just smiled sadly as the images played before Charlotte, each one more startling and shocking than the last. From an utter lack of respect for life to senseless destruction. It continued from the past and then well into what would have been considered Charlotte's future. Finally, she looked away. "[B]Please, I can't bear to watch any longer.[/B]" She looked instead at Celesta, "[B]I don't understand, why do you show me such things?[/B]" "[B]I am not done Charlotte,[/B]" Celesta indicated the circle in the air that was still there, only now it was showing an image of the Earth reborn, of one much kinder and to her eyes a paradise as the polluted air was clean once more and the humans were living peacefully together. Confused she looked back at Celesta again. "[B]It is my intent to rebuild the world so that all life is cherished and allowed to live peacefully, regardless of status or standing. As my champion you have the right to rule on Earth in my name, carrying out my will.[/B]" Celesta explained. "[B]But, what about Kenneth?[/B]" Charlotte whispered. Celesta's answer was to indicate the circle once again, only this time it was showing a different place altogether, a simple field and two people who Charlotte recognized instantly. Kenneth and his real father, Francis. "[B]Kenneth? Francis?[/B]" She asked out loud, confused as to what she was seeing. As one they turned as if they could hear her voice. "[B]Mother?[/B]" "[B]Charlotte? Is that really you?[/B]" "[B]Both of them are in the afterlife, Charlotte.[/B]" Celesta explained when Charlotte looked at her for an explanation. "[B]Whether you go now or later, both of them will be waiting for you.[/B]" "[B]It's okay mom![/B]" Kenneth smiled. "[B]We'll be here waiting for you.[/B]" "[B]That's right Charlotte, don't give up on the chance to live out your life. I promise to take good care of our son until you arrive.[/B]" Francis said. And then with a wave of her hand, the circle vanished, leaving Charlotte and Celesta in her heavenly home. "[B]Well Charlotte? What will you do? Will you go to the next life? Or will you help me build a better one for all of humanity before taking your eternal rest?[/B]" "[B]They'll still be there? Waiting for me once the world is rebuilt, right?[/B]" Charlotte asked, remembering all the horrible things that Celesta had shown her, things that she would be able to help put and end to. "[B]Yes,[/B]" Celesta smiled kindly, "[B]They will be waiting for you for as long as it takes.[/B]" She held out her hand to Charlotte, waiting to see what just what she would finally decide to do. Charlotte, after a bit finally nodded, reaching out and taking Celesta's hand. "[B]Alright, I'll do it.[/B]" At those words a gentle power flowed through Charlotte, like a soft summer breeze, changing her appearance in a flash. Charlotte barely had time to realize that she was dressed in a manner similar to Celesta before the gardens vanished as they descended to Earth. She was different somehow, and though she didn't truly understand it just yet, she could already sense the horrible imbalance from the images that Celesta had shown her. It was bitter and harsh and this from only a bare fraction of Celesta's power.[I] If it's this terrible to me,[/I] Charlotte thought as they drew closer to Earth,[I] it must be even more so for her.[/I] "[B]Do not worry over it child,[/B]" Celesta said. "[B]In time your work will ease that pain as well as that of all who suffer.[/B]" Charlotte just looked back at the Earth and for the first time since she had found herself in the Ragnarok, she was at peace with herself.

[quote name='Starwind;799718]That's the scary part. Alot of these guys DO have families. They believe that they can help there children grow and adapt better by "helping" them experience their sexuality at a young age.[/QUOTE]That doesn't change anything, if we start attempting to control others because our views differ, we're no better really. So long as they stay within the law, then they have that right.[quote name='Starwind'']What's worse is they think what they're doing is noble and a just cause. I'm all for public rights and everything, but the idea that these guys can spew their venom about like this makes me sick to my stomach.[/quote]Only in the eyes of others, and though I agree, as well as most of the USA since there are laws against relationships at such a young age. They are still doing the rest of us a favor by being so vocal. It makes it easy to spot them and I'm sure that law agencies keep a wary eye cast in their direction. As much as I find the concept distasteful, until they are actually caught or are actually engaging in what they preach, I see no reason to get up in arms over it. If it bothers people so much then they need to keep an eye out for laws that would change things or better yet, educate their own children about how important it is to wait before becoming sexually active.

And here I hadn't even been aware of this group. It's sad, but so long as they aren't actually doing what they preach then they have every right to express those beliefs. I don't see the law changing anytime soon to make having a relationship with a minor acceptable so they're just spitting out hot air really. I don't know anyone who would support making supposedly consensual relationships between and adult and a minor legal. And by consensual I mean their mistaken belief that a child is mature enough to actually consent. If what I read is true they were established back in 1978 and yet no laws have been changed to accommodate their pathetic views. Personally I think they need to just get over it and go get a real relationship with an adult who can consent instead of focusing on the idea that children are mature enough to be in a sexual relationship.

Sorry that took me so long Beth. I swear... lately I keep having too much that needs to be done! XP Anyway, now we just need to wrap things up and get going to the next phase. heh.

Michael was seriously having doubts as to whether or not they would even make it out of the abandoned space station alive. In all this time, they were no closer to figuring out the mystery behind what was going on or even what had killed the crew and was now affecting them and even their equipment. Still, as they approached the doors to the main power supply, nothing could have prepared him for what was inside the room. At first glance it was no different than any power core for a space station. With the sturdy clear material in huge panels going from the floor to the ceiling with computer terminal?s located all around it. But as all of them came to a halt and just stared at what was behind the panel, it was clear that normal didn?t even begin to describe the situation at all. Instead of the usual power core, it appeared as if space itself was rent as a jagged circular disk, radiating in many colors was in the spot where the core should have been. The outer edges were jagged and flared brightly at random intervals, causing them to have to shield their eyes when it did so. ?[B]What the hell is that?[/B]? Colonel DeSouza asked no one in particular. ?[B]Amazing![/B]? Nakeisha exclaimed as she pulled out her own equipment and attempted to get a reading of whatever was coexisting with the power core of the space station. Michael was not listening, his attention drawn to the body of a researcher over to the left in a corner. Next to him was of all things, an old fashioned journal or rather notebook. Something he had not seen outside of a museum. Curious he walked over and then bent down to pick the book up. It was written in an older style of the Creid language, but it was easily readable. ?[B]What do you have there?[/B]? Michael looked up to see that the Colonel had come over to see what he was up to. Michael stood up and then opened the book, showing it to DeSouza. ?[B]It seems to be a recording of what happened here, I?ve yet to read very far, but it seems that upon realizing that whatever that is affected power driven equipment, he started recording their observations in this instead.[/B]? ?[B]Let me know what you find out.[/B]? DeSouza ordered before turning back to check on what the others were doing. Teresa and Cameron were checking around the room for any others while Nakeisha was still preoccupied with what her equipment was telling her, muttering to herself and tuning everyone out while she did so. Stopping briefly from time to time to consult something that she had on the CBC that she had with her as well. Michael went back to reading what was in the journal, noting how whatever the phenomenon was, it had been small when it first appeared and then just gradually increased in size until it was nearly taking over the entire power core of the space station. Each attempt to get rid of whatever it was had been carefully documented, along with the repercussions each action had caused. In the end, as the final notes indicated, it had been beyond their power to stop it for when they realized what would be required, it was too late to actually be able to do it. Michael looked up from what he was reading just in time to see Nakeisha reaching forward to touch the clear panel separating them from the power core. ?[B]Don?t touch it![/B]? He yelled at her, causing her to freeze in place. ?[B]If you do that, you?ll die![/B]? ?[B]What do you mean Dr. Travis?[/B]? Colonel DeSouza asked. ?[B]It?s in the notes here sir. Whatever that is, it drains the power of anything near it, including that of organic life forms. One of the researchers here died when he got close enough to actually touch the panel.[/B]? Startled the rest of them looked at Dr. Travis and then hastily backed away from the power core. ?[B]So this thing is responsible for our troubles.[/B]? DeSouza commented more to himself than anything else. ?[B]Did they figure out how to get rid of it?[/B]? ?[B]Yes, but by then it was too late. If their notes are correct, it will require an energy overload to dislodge it and close the rift. The scientist who took these notes believed that it was a dimensional rift though he didn?t know what caused it.[/B]? Michael explained. ?[B]So all we need to do is destroy the station?[/B]? ?[B]The more powerful the explosion the better.[/B]? Michael confirmed. ?[B]Colonel! You can?t possibly do that![/B]? Nakeisha started to object. ?[B]The energy coming from this thing is similar to the gate?[/B]? But DeSouza cut her off. ?[B]I don?t care what it?s similar to Dr. Rhodes. Getting all of us out of here is more important.[/B]? He opened up a COM link to the Argo Navis and began to talk to Kendra.

I think the title says it all, what is it about this place that keeps you coming back? What is it that you find fun and enjoyable? I can think of lots of things, but probably the number one thing is friends I have here at OtakuBoards, since some of those friends are why I even joined in the first place. You could also say I like the lack of immature flaming and catfights that I?ve seen at other forums. I also like the post quality since it?s fun to see more than just a few lines of I like so and so. I like how people tend to explain things a little better than just a simple statement. It?s diverse in the sense that there?s almost always something fun going on that I enjoy, especially since I like doing rpg?s. But still, even though there are days when it?s a little slow, I still like coming to the boards. In the end, the main thing that keeps me here is all the friends I?ve made. How about the rest of you? I've been thinking about it since in a short bit I will have been here for an entire year. Though it seems like only yesterday that I joined this place. XP

First of all... that's a great avatar/banner set you've got there Chikara Kokoro. ;)[quote name='Chikara Kokoro'] I like to preview anime that I think I might like before it's licensed. [/QUOTE]Oh same here and that's one of the biggest reasons I like fan subs, because usually I know within an episode or two if it's going to interest me or not. I usually don't have the time to catch things on TV as they air here or rather it's on when I'm doing something else so often I'll wait until I can see something that is licensed before I will even consider purchasing it. Fortunately from time to time the onDemand section of my Cable service has episodes from a show that I've never seen so I'll check it out. But seriously, as I've heard from others, the potential to tap into the online market is something companies need to stop overlooking. The popularity of fan subs only proves that in my opinion. The market has changed and it requires them getting off their butts and adapting if they want to stay on top. I have no issue getting anime legally, but when there are things that don't get licensed or take forever to even come to the USA... it just makes it even harder for people to try to support the industry by only buying licensed and packaged DVD's.

[quote name='GuyYouMetOnline']I love screwing with my characters' minds.[/QUOTE]I agree, heh. I know that Stevens drives Darren nuts and has him wanting to pull his hair out. Plus it's creepy to write about. I will never, [I]ever[/I] use my real name for an rpg character again. XP Anyway... And posted... XP Sorry for the delay Beth. Once I finish up with Finals this week I'll have more time to put into the rpg. Especially now that we've worked out more of the details surrounding Kerstin. Once I get my tests finished, I'll do a post about her.

Darren did his best to keep in his irritation as well as his disgust over what had happened in sector seven. Just as he did his best to hide how much he hated his current assignment, writing up the new protocol to cover what Stevens had in mind and then finally being able to leave his quarters to head to the computer specialist on the [I]Conqueror[/I] in order to have it written up to his specifications. Ones that as he handed the data chip over to the man had him giving Darren an odd look as he took a moment to write it up to do as the instructions required. “[B]Are you sure you want to do this sir?[/B]” He finally asked. “[B]You do realize the problem with this, right?[/B]” “[B]I do, but unfortunately, I have my orders.[/B]” Darren replied. “[B]Though why I need to be the one to write it up is beyond me.[/B]” Though if he had any say about it, things would not be done according to Stevens wishes, oh how he wanted to say no to the order, though he knew he could not. “[B]Well I can answer that,[/B]” the specialist said. “[B]Even though you don’t write up the specific code, the manner in which your protocols work is inconsistent with how standard programming works. You’re line of reasoning is completely different. Though that’s a good thing since it makes it harder to simply write something up to bypass the guidelines you’ve set up.[/B]” Confused Darren took a seat across from the specialists terminal. “[B]What do you mean?[/B]” “[B]Most verification programs are by law required to follow a set pattern, they must conform to a set of protocols for how information is processed in the network, but in order for your’s to work, it requires doing things differently, otherwise, the updates wouldn’t happen so quickly.[/B]” Darren had no idea what he was talking about, but then he was not a computer specialist, he only knew what would work best to make illegal shipping and profiteering harder, it had never occurred to him that it was contrary to how standard information was processed. The specialist just laughed at his confused expression. “[B]It’s nothing to worry about, it’s not that hard for someone like me to write up what you want, it just requires hackers to actually use their brains to get around it, that’s all. Because it’s habit for them to expect things to work a certain way. So forcing us to change the standard process in order to meet your specifications is a good thing.[/B]” “[B]I’ll take your word for it.[/B]” Darren said as the specialist handed him the data chip back with the newly written code. “[B]If you need any other changes, just let me know.[/B]” Darren politely thanked him and then left the computer lab, pausing only long enough to pull up his hand held computer to contact Stevens to let him know he had the program he wanted ready. But when Stevens simply indicated he was to bring it to his quarters where he was located, Darren couldn’t help but stifle a groan. Of all places, the very last one he ever wanted to be at was Stevens quarters.[I] Oh hell.[/I] He thought with exasperation as he got in the lift and had it take him to the level where Stevens quarters were, it wasn’t too far from his own, just on the next level up. But it didn’t stop him from getting knowing glances from the crew, glances that just made him want to scream. He didn’t want to go to Stevens quarters and he couldn’t help that others knew what Stevens was like. [I]Great, just great,[/I] he thought as he pressed the panel to alert Stevens that he was there. [I]By the end of the day, it will be all over the damn fleet.[/I] A fact that just put him in a bad mood as the doors opened and Stevens told him to enter. The fact that he'd rather die than be near Stevens wouldn't matter, the rumors would spread just like they had about him and Jared when he was required to help with taking over Earth. For just a brief moment he lost that anger as the shock over how excessive Stevens quarters were hit. It was positively unreal in how they made even his quarters look small. It was in his opinion a complete and total waste of space. Even the furniture and other decorations were overly done and far too expensive. It was clear, based on what he knew from when he was a merchant, that the room alone cost more than his ship, the [I]Wilkey[/I] did. Darren jumped slightly when the door closed behind him and then again when Stevens entered the main room from his office and laughed at his expression before taking a seat on one of the plush chairs and motioning for Darren to do the same. "[B]I see that you have not taken my advice Darren,[/B]" He smirked. "[B]I suggest you work on that or I really will give the crew something to gossip about.[/B]" With an inward groan he handed Stevens a copy of the data chip he had made while on his way to his quarters, carefully avoiding accidentally touching his hand before he sat down across from him. "[B]That should do what you have in mind.[/B]" Darren told him as Stevens used his own hand held computer to take a look. "[B]It goes without saying that as soon as this war is over I will have that removed from the standard protocols.[/B]" He looked away. "[B]It's entirely possible that we'll have to do that before the war is over, since I'm sure the New Alliance will move to counter that once they realize what happened.[/B]" Stevens just smiled. "[B]Excellent.[/B]" He pocketed the data chip and gave Darren a knowing look. "[B]I suggest you head back to your quarters and start thinking of other ways you can help to bring this war to a close.[/B]" He stood up and sighed dramatically. "[B]In the mean time, get lost before I change my mind. Your clueless looks and overly tense body language is irritating.[/B]" He shook his head and then patted Darren on the left cheek, laughing over how Darren went stiff and pulled away. "[B]I mean it, get lost before your pretty face has me doing things that would make even your sister blush.[/B]" Darren didn't need a second warning as he couldn't get out of there fast enough. Though Stevens mocking laugher just made him flush with embarrassment even more than he had when he had patted him on the cheek. Furious, he stalked back to his quarters, unable to hide just how frustrated and angry he felt.

[quote name='Fasteriskhead']This thread is probably not the best idea. People easily get offended over copyright abuse and things of that kind. Plus it's against the rules here, for good reason: you could get the site into all kinds of legal trouble (despite some the mods being guilty as hell :)).[/QUOTE]As far as I know, discussing it isn't against the site rules. You just can't go providing links to where such stuff is hosted online. Not that it's all that hard to find anyway. Seriously. And obviously when you see us commenting in a thread where the only way we could have seen it was via a fan sub... well it's obvious that like anyone else, many of us watch them.[quote name='Fasteriskhead']These days I download a [i]lot[/i] of fansubs - more than I buy, really. Obviously I'm aware that this may hurt the industry, so I feel a bit guilty about it. Basically, I'm too impatient to wait. Here in the US there's just too much turnover time before we receive our shows; when the DVDs hit, I often forget to buy them. Companies should know that I am not interested in packaging and dubs: I want the anime, and very little else. Anyways, where can you find fansubs online? No one knows![/QUOTE]Truthfully, I don't really download or watch all that much since I really don't have the time for it. And it's not from lack of harddrive space either, I've got over 350GB free, I just have no interest in filling it up with anime. XP I've known about fan sub sites for quite some time and yet I still only check things out occasionally. If I don't like a show no more than an episode or two gets watched and if I do like it... Then once it's licensed I usually pick up a copy. Personally I think with the increase in digital media, it would be a smart move for the companies in Japan to start providing legal subbed copies one could download for a reasonable fee. I know I would pay for such a service.

[CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alecialeanna-chronicle.jpg[/IMG][/CENTER] Alexander wasn't at all sorry that the party of last night was done and over with. He much preferred the more quiet mornings and evenings with just him and Alecia as they either chatted over breakfast or dinner and conferred about how their day had gone. And this morning was no exception as he finished getting cleaned up and into his uniform for work. Alecia always woke up before he did and like always she was already at the table, checking the newspaper while she sipped on some coffee, her breakfast already done. Upon entering the room, one of the few servants they had took her dishes away after setting his own breakfast down. Something that he still was not use to, having someone else wait on him. It didn?t take him long to finish up the simple breakfast of toast, bacon and eggs and though he would have loved to linger and talk a bit, a quick look at his pocket watch indicated that they needed to be off soon if they didn?t want to miss the train going down into the lower area?s of High Czenoble where both of them worked. He finished off his own coffee and then took Alecia?s hand in his as she stood up. ?[B]You look lovely,[/B]? he commented as he always did. Even in her more plain green dress, with a wrap around her waist going up about six inches, long close sleeves that did not flare out and a simple skirt that went almost to the floor. No extra petticoats and even her green shoes were short little boots with silver laces. All of it practical and useful instead of dramatic and showy. In short, a standard uniform for a potionist still doing her residency, once she finished and was promoted to a more senior status, she would be allowed to wear finer materials and the trim would change to gold instead of silver. It was by High Czenoble?s standards, quite plain and lacking some of the more usual basics of dress like a corset, but working with patients required less clothing to snag on things and more freedom of movement to accommodate their work. Alecia just smiled at the usual compliment as she fetched the green cloak for her work uniform. ?[B]You say that every morning.[/B]? Alexander just chuckled a bit as he leaned forward to kiss her. ?[B]That?s because it?s true.[/B]? He said, taking her arm in his as they left their small home to head for the train station. "[B]Just as it's true you look as handsome as always in your uniform.[/B]" She teased him back a bit, smiling at what a lovely day it was turning out to be. What Alexander would have said next was lost as they walked into the station and then stepped into one of the waiting cars of the train. The staff at the station knew both of them on sight and other than a cheerful good morning wish nothing else was said. For citizens such as Alexander who worked for the Royal Police Guard and a Potionist, no ticket was necessary. The RPG had free access to accommodate their job and Alecia's residency included use of public transportation as well. Alexander guided her to a seat and then as they discussed where to meet for lunch later that day, he couldn't help but watch the landscape as the train headed down the sloping terrain. High Czenoble was built in levels that slopped downward beneath the grand palace. With only the most wealthy living up closer along the top edges of the city. The grand estate of the Almagests, where the party had been held last night was clearly visible in the early morning sun. The further down they went, the less grand the homes were and then it switched over entirely to the schools, the market and stores as well as the many hospitals, air transportation facilities and office buildings for the commerce through out the land. All of it neatly maintained, even down to the simple stables for housing the different carriage services for hire. There was more of course, theaters, resturants and other wonders, but the city was far to large for Alexander to be able to see it from the train. Overall, it was a far cry from Alexander's original home in New Czenoble. Finally, upon arriving at their stop, both of them exited the train and headed down the street. First making a stop in front of the hospital where Alecia worked and then once they said their goodbyes for the morning, he was on his way to the headquarters of the Royal Police Guard to check in before heading out on his morning patrol.

I see a couple of major obstacles at the moment here. The first being I have finals this week, which means I'll be pretty busy starting tomorrow afternoon. The second, I have three weeks off starting next Saturday. This break comes after being extremely busy because once I take my last tests, I get my masters in music. Finally! Anyway... but still, the point is, I'm burned out and in serious need of a rest. So until school starts again on January 7th. I have no intention of joining any rpg's no matter what they are. I'm only going to post in the ones' I'm already in. And finally, if you have some notion of using points... I won't do something like the Ragnarok again. Unless it's been majorly re-vamped to be a hell of a lot less annoying. That was fun at first, but towards the end, it was tedious as hell and very, very frustrating. XP So if you really want those of us who won in the next one, for me, that won't happen unless you start it next year. After classes have started on the 7th of January. Yes I'll be busy with school yet again, but I will feel more up to it since I will have gotten that much needed break in.

[quote name='Sandy']A few directions to the situation when there's only one soul remaining: Let me post directly after that, depicting the banishment of the other gods besides the winner, and after that the winner can post one more time about the world he or she will create. It would be great to also mention what happened to the soul that survived the Ragnarok. Hope this arrangement is okay with everyone. ;D[/QUOTE]Well, seeing that Crystia decided to kill someone off instead of reviving a character... I used the card I earned to bring us down to one. >_> I will now hide and run before the rest of you clobber me. For future reference should any questions come up... It's Sandy's fault. *takes off*

Celesta had not expected Jachym to actually listen to what she said, nor had she expected Bellanna to agree with her. Sure the Goddess had been displeased with what Jachym had done, but still, she could have tried to take advantage of the situation to take Celesta out of the game for good. But for whatever reason she had decided to go against Jachym. She didn't know what to say really and a quick glance at Raone only got a single nod from him. In that respect they were the same, content should either one fall and the other take their place. Reassured she turned back and set her card in motion, even though deliberately taking a life pained her, even if that life had already died once before. And then she said nothing, not trusting herself to speak just yet as she vanished from Valhalla. [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-charlotte.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-kennethjunior.jpg[/IMG][/center] Charlotte was a little surprised when Jeanne did not follow her and Kenneth as they left the small chapel, heading out into the small town. For a moment Charlotte was overjoyed upon realizing where she was, that is until she realized that it was abandoned. She held on tightly to Kenneth's hand, wondering if she should head back to the church, even if it appeared to be the small town she grew up in, it was clear to her that it couldn't be the same place. It was exactly as she remembered it and many of the buildings had burned down when she was but a small child. "[B]Where are we mother?[/B]" Kenneth asked as he looked up at her. "[B]I'm not sure,[/B]" She said as she approached the largest building in the town, one that was where the law resided, but upon opening the door and entering she found herself in a different place altogether. A wondrous garden unlike anything she had ever seen, so beautiful and peaceful that Charlotte wondered if she were in heaven. Somehow she could not imagine something this beautiful or peaceful existing inside the Ragnarok. "[B]You are correct, and you are also incorrect.[/B]" A serene voice answered her thoughts. Startled Charlotte turned towards the heart of the garden, finding a young woman with long flowing black hair who was wearing a golden crown with a sundisk symbol on the front. Her garments a pure white sleeveless dress gathered at the waist with a belt made of pure gold, with simple sandles on her feet. "[B]I am Celesta the Goddess of Life, among the mortals I am known as Isis.[/B]" She approached them, speaking as she did so. "[B]You are still in the Ragnarok, this is but an illusion of my heavenly home.[/B]" "[B]I don't understand.[/B]" Charlotte said. "[B]How could you?[/B]" Celesta countered. "[B]There will be time for that, but more importantly, it is time for your son to return to the eternal rest that both you and he were denied in order to play out this trial.[/B]" Charlotte clutched Kenneth tightly. "[B]Please, if you must take someone, take me instead.[/B]" She pleaded, tears running down her face. "[B]I am sorry, I cannot. Kenneth is not my champion.[/B]" Celesta reached forward and gently brushed her tears away. "[B]I will be kind, it will be no different than if he were to fall asleep. If I could avoid it I would. But it is necessary, there are forces at work that I am moving to stop. If I hesitate, more than the life of your son could be imperiled. As the Goddess of Life it is my duty to do all that I can to preserve it. Even the regrettable task of allowing one who is already dead to finally achieve the rest they deserve.[/B]" Celesta turned and gently touched Kenneth on the forehead. A moment later he closed his eyes and then went limp in Charlotte's arms. "[B]Leave us alone.[/B]" Charlotte sobbed as she sank to the ground, holding Kenneth's lifeless body. "[B]If this means I am your champion I would rather be dead.[/B]" "[B]That is certainly a possibility.[/B]" Celesta answered her, causing Charlotte to look up at her in a startled manner. "[B]Though it is my intent rebuild this world or rather to correct some of the imbalances caused by the disregard of life, it is also true that you have already died and should you wish to continue to the afterlife with your son, I would not deny you that.[/B]" Celesta smiled sadly, "[B]Think on what you wish to do Charlotte, I will explain more later.[/B]" And with that her and the gardens vanished, leaving Charlotte alone in the building of her abandoned town to weep over Kenneth. [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-deathcard.png[/IMG] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-kennethjunior.jpg[/IMG][/center]

[quote name='Matt;799313]Because not everyone knows how to do that. Me included. You can't presume everyone wants to do something of that nature, either.[/QUOTE]It's right here in the instructions on how to use the tags here at OB: [URL="http://www.otakuboards.com/misc.php?do=bbcode"][U]Tags[/U][/URL][QUOTE=Matt'] Also, another post can work alot like FF.Net's Alert system - when people go to Anthology, they see said story is bolded. Oh, that means a new chapter is up! Reader go reads. But the thread never has any visual symbol whenever an edit is done. Thus, how can readers know when the story is updated?[/QUOTE]Unless it's the first post, as Des already explained, it's simple to edit the post and lift what's in there, copy it to say word, delete the existing post and then repost it with the new material added. That bumps the thread and tells the alert system you speak of that there is a new post up. I've done that myself when I want to reply to a thread again and my post was the last one. It's really not that hard to do and takes little to no effort to do. [B]EDIT:[/B] As always... Des is one step ahead. lol

What's wrong with using a tag like this for a break? [hr=blue]100[/hr][hr=blue]100[/hr] [SIZE="3"][CENTER][B]Next Chapter Title Goes Here[/B][/CENTER][/SIZE] [hr=blue]100[/hr][hr=blue]100[/hr] I fail to see why that break has to come in the form of another post when there are so many things the author can do to grab the attention of the people reading it. If it's an issue of presentation, I'd suggest thinking out of the box instead of limiting yourself to the idea that the next chapter can only be done or grab people's attention if it's in a separate post.

[quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]I wonder how many of these replies are honest?[/FONT][/QUOTE]*wonders if Allamorph is honest* :p [spoiler]You [I]did [/I]dodge the question after all. *poke* [SIZE="1"]kidding![/SIZE] [/spoiler]

Well I finished Lovely Complex and though I loved the ending, the very last episodes were almost tossed in there just to hit twenty four. Still over all I really enjoyed it so I'd certainly recommend it if you like romantic comedy's. Now, when I have time I'm watching Hayate no Gotoku. Which is kind of a humorous show about a boy who ends up being the house butler for a spoiled rich girl. The only drawback... I'm to episode six and I'm already getting tired of the mean front she puts up when she actually cares. It's already losing it's charm in that respect. So I don't know if I'll finish it or not even though it does have it's really funny moments. As for reading... I'm still not reading anything anime related right now. I just don't have time, especially with finals being next week. XP

[quote name='Deus ex Machina'][COLOR="DarkOrange"] Right now, I'm relly not qualified to run an RP, seeing as how I've blown off the past 2 I created and (probably) generally pissed off/lost the trust of all the participants :animesigh [/COLOR][/QUOTE]Nonsense. lol You handed the first one over to someone else and you just did the same with the second one. If you had truly blown them off you would have ignored all requests for information and ignored the players. :p The only reason I wouldn't join an rpg you did right now is I'm already too committed with other ones at the moment. That and I intend to spend as much of my spare time as possible with my girlfriend over the Christmas holidays. Heh. Otherwise, even though I know nothing about that show, the concept is interesting and does sound like it would be fun.

[quote name='Aaryanna'][COLOR="goldenrod"][FONT="Comic Sans MS"]I've never been to the Festival of Trees, but I love going up to Temple Square. ^_^ I didn't get to go last year, but this year I will. I'm wondering how it will be with the construction going on though. [/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE]I meant to answer this earlier... But if Temple Square is the only thing you intend on seeing... then just park out in Sandy and take the light rail in. It will save you a lot of hassle. Another thing I forgot to mention, Panda's post reminded me of it, and that's the going around and checking out lights in the city. There's always somewhere that's really decked out so I usually end up going at least once with some of my friends to look at lights. That's always fun. We tend to keep it to just one area though, with the suburbs here, we could drive all night and still not get to every neighborhood that has a nice setup. XP

"[B]You seem troubled Celesta,[/B]" Raone observed, causing those who were left to turn to the dark haired goddess of life. "[B]How can I not be? I am sure I am not the only one who questions the wisdom of what we have done here.[/B]" Celesta moved forward until she was almost touching the pool where the remaining souls could be seen. "[B]Do not let my troubles concern you Raone, just as you have done, I have accepted that what we have partaken in here is far from acceptable. I only hope the price was worth it.[/B]" [CENTER][IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-jeanne.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-charlotte.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Ragnarok/ragnarok-soul-kennethjunior.jpg[/IMG][/center] It took a little hunting, but Jeanne finally found a door encased in ice. A few well places shots from her pistol caused the ice to fracture enough that she was able to pry the rest away until they fell to the ground with a clatter. The door itself was stiff but with Charlotte's and Kenneth's help she was able to open it. It lead to just behind the altar of a small church with beautiful stained glass windows with warm sunlight hitting them, bathing the small chapel in a soft glow. Charlotte took Kenneth and moved in without hesitation. "[B]What a wonderful place![/B]" She exclaimed as she moved to her knees to pray in thanks. "[B]What are you doing?[/B]" Jeanne asked in utter disbelief. "[B]Why are you praying to the fools who did this to you?[/B]" Startled Charlotte looked up and started to say something but Jeanne kept on going, ignoring her, getting angrier by the minute. "[B]These so called Gods are the very ones who are toying with our lives![/B]" Furious she turned and shot out the beautiful stain glass windows, causing them to shatter. "[B]Stop that! You'll make them angry! It's not right to be so disrespectful towards God![/B]" Charlotte exclaimed as she got up and grabbed Jeanne's hand. Jeanne halted at Charlotte's touch and then lowered the pistol. "[B]It's wrong for a God to abuse his people.[/B]" She stalked off and started rummaging though the different storage compartments looking for something useful, snatching a small robe that was in one of the cabinets. "[B]Here, this should fit Kenneth better.[/B]" She tossed it to Charlotte, who tossed it to the ground. "[B]Stealing from God will result in you going to hell. Would you have me damn my child?[/B]" She declared. "[B]It is bad enough that I am a sinner, but I would never do that to Kenneth!"[/B] Uncertain as to why the adults were fighting, Kenneth ran off and hunched down behind one of the benches, utterly confused and trying to figure out what was going on, it was both scary and yet fascinating at the same time. "[B]Sinner?[/B]" Jeanne laughed as she approached Charlotte. "[B]You come from a backwards era that holds any and all actions as sins, shall I demonstrate just what is acceptable in my era?[/B]" "[B]I don't need any such demonstration.[/B]" Charlotte said sternly. But Jeanne ignored her, grabbing her without warning and forcing a kiss on her while she ran one hand along her body, ignoring Charlotte who struggled fiercely to pull free. Then with a laugh she let her go. "[B]Gah!... What's the matter with you people? First Naomi, then Patrick and now you![/B]" Charlotte backed away from her. Jeanne just sighed. "[B]How would I know? Maybe you're cursed too. I've certainly never been attracted to women before.[/B]" She sat down in front of the altar and leaned back against it. "[B]Perhaps it's best you take Kenneth and leave. I can't guarantee that I'll let go next time. Just as I couldn't stop myself from trying to kill you and Kenneth.[/B]" Charlotte just stared at her, wondering what to do, with a start she looked around for Kenneth and then breathed a sigh of relief when she saw him sitting behind one of the benches. [I]All I want is to go home.[/I] She thought as she moved to go and comfort Kenneth who was looking confused and a touch afraid.

[quote name='Athena'][size=1]You peeps need to take a chill pill. I'm sure those are still legal ^_~ Name-calling and stereotyping isn't getting anyone anywhere except to paths of anger and irrelevance to the topic.[/size][/QUOTE]Seconded. Seriously people, knock it off with the name calling and off topic flaming.

I don't really have any strong fears or rather nothing unless I'm currently face to face with it, otherwise I don't even think about it. And even then, most of the time it's just a mild reaction. I have a hard time feeling any real fear for very long. Even when I was in a car accident last year and it freaked me out a bit since I came so close to having my hands get hurt. Still even that fear didn't stick for long. XP As for things I love... I love playing the Cello. It's more than what I'm doing for a living, I would probably do it even if I had to do something different altogether to pay the bills. I'd never be able to walk away from that one and if that were the case, needing to do something else for work, it would be my number one hobby. I love hiking and escaping to the outdoors... enough that it drove me nuts last summer that I was unable to do so while I recovered from the broken leg I got from that car accident. I hadn't realized how much I love that until I couldn't do it.

It?s a tricky question right? What do you lie about and what do you not lie about. Just what prompts you to be dishonest and what prompts you to be honest. In other words, where do you draw the line? Do you always tell the truth? After all we often use white lies when being truthful isn?t always necessary. Like pretending someone?s cooking isn?t as bad as it really is [[SIZE="1"]well unless it?s mine since I suck at cooking[/SIZE]] or telling someone that they look good in a new shirt even though the color is hideous. XP I tend to be pretty honest since it just seems pointless to lie about things, I hardly ever tell a white lie either. Though it helps that my girlfriend [I]is[/I] a good cook so there is no need to lie. lol Anyway? So what?s your take on this? is it okay to lie sometimes or would you say it?s wrong to lie at all? The few times I have told those white lies, it?s always been over something I consider trivial and not worth it since I?d rather not hurt someone?s feelings over say a dinner being slightly dried out or the color of their shirt being one I don?t like. Though I suppose one could argue that such things would be trivial enough that even the person involved shouldn?t take them so seriously. But I?ve never lied to someone I care about when it was something important since at that point I think being honest is better and avoids trouble down the road. Anyway? so where exactly do you fall? For myself I?d say I fall closer to the being totally honest end of the spectrum. Hell I won?t even lie to keep friends out of trouble when they?ve done something really stupid.