Gavin

[font=Verdana][size=1][b]Van:[/b] [[i]In a solemn voice[/i]] I know what you mean, [[i]removes glasses and cleans[/i]] when you lose a parent or in your case both parents it's like the entire world just falls apart at the core. My own father bless him was a very good man, he taught me everything I hold dear and when he died my life seemed to just go down the drain so to speak.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]Van went own speaking to Murisiai about his life, how his mother and brother had died in childbirth and how his father had been the only one left to raise Van. Murisiai seemed to "open up" a little as Van spoke, maybe it was just luck but the two shared a similar past. Van spoke of his imprisonment at the hands of Shin-Ra after years of refusing to deal with them illegally about how he'd been working to make his father's company even bigger than it had been. He told Murisiai about the little weasel who'd been bribing Shin-Ra executives for his own ends, Van spoke of how he'd immediately had the wretch removed from the company... But that had been the exact opportunity Shin-Ra had been waiting for, the pounced and Van was sent to a Shin-Ra prison for 5 years, Van had already finished his drink and called over to the bar-keeper to bring over another round. Murisiai questioned him about prison life...[/i][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Van:[/b] [[i]Still solemn[/i]] It was without a doubt the toughest time in my life, there were guys there who'd gang-rape you and then beat you to death like an animal... they were animals... but I guess we were all animals. The guards never cared about who lived and who died as long as they got to go home at night, [[i]Takes gulp of new beer[/i]] heck sometimes they'd join in when someone was getting a beating and finish the poor bastard off for fun... FUN!! [[i]Slams fist down onto the table[/i]][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]Van had smashed his fist down on the table harder than he realised as the room went deadly quiet, he looked about with a obvious frown of disapproval and one by one the people turned back to what they'd been doing. Van apologised to Murisiai for that scene but Murisiai remained as quiet as before, he wondered what made Murisiai so quiet and himself so fiery. It seemed that their conversation would be one of asking questions about each other's live until that point, Van was by many standards still new to The Turks he'd only been a Turk for about 8 - 9 months but he combat record was impressive. Van wondered what had drawn his comrade towards The Turks, he decided to use the most direct method and plain out asked.[/i][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Murisiai:[/b] I was working as a mercenary out of Costa Del Sol, the money was good and I seemed to have made an impression on Shin-Ra, they sent an official to talk to me and after a while I decided to join... So if Shin-Ra are responsible for destroying your entire life why would you join them, or rather a sub-division of them.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Van:[/b] [[i]Rubs chin[/i]] Well when I was a younger man, Shin-Ra had taken an interest in me for several reasons and while I was on a trip to Cosmo Canyon 10 years ago I was approached by an agent of Shin-Ra. I wasn't interested in joining then so I declined and with a bit of persuasion he accepted my refusal, I returned home and it was later that year that my father died. What followed was Shin-Ra ruining my life and my prison term, after that I came out I was offered a place in The Turks by Reno, I knew Rufus was dead so I accepted. I had nothing left to lose and I still think it was the right choice...[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]Van picked up his glass and drained it back, he was tired and he was a bit sick of going over all the worst **** that had ever happened to him. The look of Murisiai's face told him the he was feeling the same, Van suggested they get some rest because more than likely Reno would be wanting them for some serious training in the days to follow. Murisiai nodded and the two got up, Van paid for the drinks and both headed back home, Van had been fortunate enough to have hidden away enough of his inheritance to now afford an apartment on the Upper-Plate section. Entering his bedroom he undressed and lay down between the sheets, he was exhausted and as his eyes drooped down he feel asleep...[/i][/size][/font]

[size=1][font=Verdana]I feel we need to get into this ship and on our way before this dies from lack of RP.[/font] [/size] [center][size=1][font=Verdana]--------------------[/font] [/center] [/size][i][font=Verdana][size=1]Van's eyes were practically glued shut from the night before, he'd enjoyed his little chat with Helena and Allen and felt it good to go back over some of the stuff that had happened in his life before the Event Horizon mission. Allen had always reminded him of his son but now he was more like a brother to Van, Helena was a bit of a mystery, her French accent was quite different to what he usually heard we well as her distinct personality... He attempted to raise his head off the pillow again so that he could get up, never again he promised, he may have been able to drink hard but there was no escaping the hangover the morning after. After three attempts he rose from the bed and went to take a shower, the warm waters reminded him of the first day on the Bladerunner after exiting the stasis gel. Getting dressing he felt the urge to go see the new tub they'd be flying in, if it was anything like the last mission he'd really need a good medical bay... That and a [b]hell[/b] of a lot of guns, he walked out of the room he'd been sleeping in and knocked on Allen's door. [/size][/font] [/i][size=1][font=Verdana][i]Allen answered groggily dressed in a dressing gown and a hairdo that showed he'd been tossing in his sleep, Van laughed and walked inside surveying Allen's room, it was pretty much the same as Van's except a few things were in different places. Van went over to the kettle and started making a cup of coffee for Allen, Van savoured the smell of the coffee but had always hated the taste, after a few seconds the kettle had boiled and Van had the coffee ready. Allen was in the shower and Van checked the news for anything that might prove of interest, sunny weather report, a political debate and few kids shows, not much else. He switched off the TV as Allen emerged cleaner and smelling better than before, Van handed him the coffee and Allen gladly drank it back while Van went to make himself a cup of tea. Allen asked Van what he was doing here and he replied that he was going to go see their new ship to see if it was up to the task. Allen responded that he was going to do the same and they might as well go together.[/i][/font] [b][font=Verdana]Van:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] The ship better be able to handle what it's thrown [b]this[/b] time, I suppose they've analysed the data from the previous mission and equipped her with what we'll need this time around.[/font] [b][font=Verdana]Allen:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] Any suggestions.[/font] [b][font=Verdana]Van:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] Guns, lots of Guns...[/font] [b][font=Verdana]Allen:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] [[i]Laughs[/i]]. Been watching the classics again eh Van.[/font] [b][font=Verdana]Van:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] Well their classics for a reason, anyway get dressed and I'll meet you in the lobby in a few minutes.[/font] [b][font=Verdana]Allen:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] Alright.[/font] [i][font=Verdana]Van walked out of the room and headed down towards the stairs, he wondered exactly what he'd be facing this time around, sure he'd been [b]into[/b] that Chaos Dimension but the experience had been mental torture but if it could save Sam then he'd do it all over again. He noticed a small gathering in the Lobby, Trini, Lilia and Helena were already present and Van guessed that they were all there for the same reasons. Van walked up to them and gave a wide smile, Trini responded by gaving him a hug and it seemed for a moment that life was good again. Allen was making his way down at near enough the same time the elevator doors opened to reveal Nathan standing calmly preparing to exit. It all seemed a bit weird to Van that everyone had the same idea but he guessed they we all just ready to get this trip underway.[/font][/i] [b][font=Verdana]Allen:[/font][/b][font=Verdana] Well I see that everyone is already present, first we're going to check out our new ship and then we're going to check on Sam and make sure that he can be transported safely.[/font] [i][font=Verdana]Everyone nodded and it seemed that they day was afoot...[/font][/i][/size]

[font=Verdana][size=1]Boba has very kindly allowed me into the RPG...[/size][/font] [center][font=Verdana][size=1]--------------[/size][/font] [/center] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]Shots echoed across the bow of the Rebuplic Cruiser [b]Perceptor[/b], it was the last of the Cruisers that had not been blown into debris, Jedi Master Van Ambrose was most thankful that Dooku hadn't realised he was on the ship, otherwise he'd more than likely be one with the Force by now. He watched as the back-up power flowed through smoking circuits and damaged consoles across the bridge, he knew that the Separatists would have already set up interdictors to block a retreat and jammed their communications to eliminate the possiblity of calling for re-enforcements. Van pushed back his long whitening hair as he looked at the five dead individuals on the bridge floor, a turbo-laser shot had hit one of the main power distribution lines and the overload had killed them. His dark blue eyes gazed into the view-screen as the shots had stopped bouncing off the hull, he activated the comm to find out how many casualties the ship had sustained.[/i][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]So far over fifty percent of the crew had been killed or injured however the Clone Troopers had sustained only a two percent fatality, he knew he would be unable to get the ship anywhere. The engines were shot and that interdictor made it impossible to get out of the system, beisdes if the ship even lurched the wrong way Dooku would probably have it blasted into vapours. His plan was made in that few seconds, he informed the ARC Commander that he would be leaving the ship for the planet and that he was to ensure it's survival, the Clone who was trained to follow a Jedi's orders complied with no hesitation. Van strode forwards and headed for the docking bay to his Starfighter, he'd only need the Fighter section since the planet was only a short flight away, he hooked his lightsaber into his robes before entering the craft and powering up. The engines were working at least but the fighter's weaponry had been in the middle of an upgrade before he entered this death-trap and were unavailable.[/i][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]The R3 unit by his side chirped loudly as Van activated the thrusters and prepared to leave the bay behind him. The fighters engines glowed orange as it emerged from the flight bay, Van carefully tried to keep the fighter from attractin attention too early, that would prove fatal and most unwanted. The droid fighters seemed not to have noticed the fighter and Van held his breathe as he punched the thrusters for maximum acceleration, [u]this[/u] got their attention but the fighter was nearly out of range by the time they had noticed it, however several other Droid fighters were close enough to enage the one-man ship in combat. Van cursed as laser shots arched near his ships outer hull, the shields around it wouldn't hold out for long against a tough barrage like he'd recieve if he stuck around too long. The fighter was closing in on Mechis III and he would hopefully shake the fighter before he hit the atmosphere.[/i][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]The fighter stayed on Van's tail, mortality was not the concern of a droid fighter so it stuck to Van like glue, he was only a few hundred meters from the upper atmosphere and hoped that his shields would be enough. The R3 unit told him that he was now entering the upper atmosphere, he gave orders for the droid to reenforce the shields for the atmospheric descent, the droid chirped back and Van hoped it was enough. The heat on the outside of the ship was intense and Van noted a flaming hulk streak down ahead of him, obviously the droid fighter that had persued him from earlier. He reached the lower atmosphere and began scanning for the Jedi Consular ship which he hoped had survived the descent, his scanning confirmed both it and another ship who's physical description was like nothing he'd ever seen before. He felt the Force echo through him, a dark presense on board, not as strong as either himself or Dooku but powerful and dark, a name flashed into his mind... [b]Ventress[/b].[/i][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][i]He set the fighter on a descent course intending to land and hopefully meet up with Master Kenobi and the others before the Sith Apprentice did...[/i][/size][/font] [center][font=Verdana][size=1]--------------[/size][/font] [/center] [font=Verdana][size=1]I just wanted this post to get Van ready to join the other Jedi, Jokopoko if you want to meet Van that's fine, the same goes for Yoda if he wants Van to meet Grevious although I'd like him survive that encounter. [/size][/font]

[font=Verdana][size=1]Ah I see you beat me to posting a thread about this Jo but no matter. I first read about this game in a small side column in Nintendo Offical Magazine UK, at first glance I thought it was interesting and had considered purchasing it when it came out. Between my brother and myself we've owned R/B, G/S and I now own Sapphire, there have been a few little tweaks here and there between the series but I think that the leap between R/B to G/S is not carried on from G/S to R/S. Many of the more interesting and fun dimensions were cut from G/S such as Night/Day and the ability to fight all the previous games Gyms again when Nintendo moved on to R/S were replaced with the annoyed Pokemon Contests and Battle Tower. I was also horrified to learn that Nintendo had cut a large number of the Pokemon from previous editions and replaced them with largely similar counter-parts for the new games. I mean look at Seviper and Arbok and tell me that I'm wrong.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1]These new options in Fire Red and Leaf Green will pull the cash from the wallets of some Pokémaniacs but many of the rest of us will just sigh and wish for better games ahead. I agree with Lady Katana and Boba when they say that this may signal the end of the Pokémon franchaise, I would hope that Nintendo might expand the games to the Gamecube (Yes I am aware of the new Pokémon Colosseum game) or possibly reinvent the entire series over again for the GBA, and that it might breathe new life and a bit of worth into this recycled series...[/size][/font]

[left][i][font=Verdana][size=1]From the shadows to his left Murisiai heard a distinct clapping, it bore all the hallmarks of sarcasm and as the figure strode forth he knew exactly why. Van was still clapping the fingers of one hand weakly upon the palm of the other, he had his lips pursed into a smirk of disapproval, he stroked the goatee around his face before he finally spoke to his co-worker.[/size][/font][/i][/left] [left][size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] A group of dead thugs, was it really necessary to mess the lace up like that... You know their parents or whoever took care of those wretches will be wondering what's happened to them.[/font][/size][/left] [left][size=1][font=Verdana][b]Murisiai:[/b] I can assure you that it was merely a slip of emotion.[/font][/size][/left] [left][font=Verdana][size=1][i]Van smiled back at Murisiai before walking totally out of the shadows, he'd been stalking Murisiai to see what made him tick and hopefully to get a glance at him in action. He chuckled to himself as he was made aware of just [u]how[/u] good his comrades skills were, walking over he stroked across his face again before asking him if he wanted to go for a drink. Murisiai was still looking at Van and not saying anything, it was as if he was sizing Van up for the kill, it was similar to any look you got in a Shin-Ra prison but that didn't concern Van anymore. He nodded and extended a hand insinuating that he wanted Van to lead the way, Van chuckled before walking calmly ahead of his cohort, his hand placed firmly upon this hild of his own sabre. The place stank of faeces and rodents, Van made a gesture of revoltion but continued down the alley that would lead them into the rebuilt sections of the Sub-Plate Sectors. [/i][/size][/font][/left] [left][size=1][font=Verdana][i]After a little walk the reached their destination, it wasn't as good as some places in Midgar Plate Section but was still a damn sight better than what it had been before. The street had some proper lighting and were clean enough, he spotted a bar on the edge of the street and headed towards it with Musiriai following quietly. He pushed his hand against the solid wood door of the bar, it had a rustic feel to it but all Van wanted was a drink and a chat with his new collegue so he'd know a bit more about his background and maybe size [u]him[/u] up a little. He ordered two beers and took them over to a large wooden table near the window, he handed one to Murisiai before sitting down on the bench provided. The atmostphere was relaxed and comfortable to talk in, he took a large gulp of the beer beforeasking Murisiai exactly what he thought of [b]The Turks[/b].[/i][/font][/size][/left] [left][size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] So... [i]Smiles widely.[/i] What do you think of the job so far... [/font][/size][/left]

[font=Verdana][size=1]Sorry about not posting here sooner but I'll endeavour to do so now. Zidargh what kinds of Materia are we allowed to use for this ?[/size][/font] [center][font=Verdana][size=1]-----------------[/size][/font][/center] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]Van was busy checking the clip in his pistol while Elena was thinking to herself and Reno was sulking over a scratched knee and a burst ego. He looked over at both Rude and Murisiai who were both in deep contemplation, Van was usually the one to break these kind of awkward silences with a joke but he really didn't feel like it now. He carefully checked each of the bullets before loading them into the clip and re-assembling the pistol, Van wasn't a gunner by nature but it was always handy to be able to hit something from a distance rather than getting clobbered up close. The mood in the room was very similar to an animal licking it's wounds after a lost fight but hell it was close enough to their actual situation to do. Van understood why Reno was pissed off, in truth he was a little agitated too at these shits who tried to play with the big boys.[/size][/font][/i] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]He pulled his sword from the sheath, it had been resting on his knees while he worked with the pistol. The blade was sharp enough to split a hair but they didn't fight many hairs in this business. He stroked at the short goatee around his lips and chine before running his finger along the top of the blade, there was some residual oil stains from those robotic gun-totting cretins they'd encountered but that would clean right off with a wipe of two. He took out a handkerchief from his top pocket and began to run it along the blade removing the nasty stain from the silvery blade. Placing it back within the sheath he noticed that there was complete silence in the room, Elena was thinking to herself, Reno still bore an angry look, Rude and Murisiai was still just motionless. This was just too uncomfortable for Van, he hated long silences and decided to break the mood.[/size][/font][/i] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Van:[/b] We'll get those bastards next time. [i]Jokingly[/i] After all we [b]are[/b] the Turks.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Rude:[/b] He's got a point Reno we've come out of worse situations.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Reno:[/b] [i]Still frowning[/i] Yeah maybe, but still we're not as sharp as we used to be. Hell before we'd have never been caught in a trap that obvious.[/size][/font] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]The mood seemed to have lightened a little but Van really couldn't think of anything else to say, that was before Murisiai made a very good point about what had happened... [/size][/font][/i] [center][font=Verdana][size=1]-----------------[/size][/font][/center] [font=Verdana][size=1]Sorry to drag you in like that Break but I can't think of anything else to say...[/size][/font]

[size=1][font=Verdana][b]Familiar Voice:[/b] Make that two...[/font][/size] [font=Verdana][size=1]Allen turned round to see Van standing in the doorway, his long brown coat had the visible sign of rain and his brown-ish grey hair seemed to be a little wet. Van turned and faced the barman squinting for a moment as if trying to remember the barman's name, he snapped his fingers in remembrance before nodding and speaking.[/size][/font] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] David O'Connell!, heh how are you, it's been a while since I've been in here.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]David:[/b] True, just over 10 years Van, I assume the three of you are together.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Allen:[/b] Well that all depends of Ms Bahbem, may we join you ?[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Helena:[/b] I don't see why not...[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] Ah I think I'll sit here on one of the bar-stools for a minute before I head over, I want to talk with Dave here for a bit about what's been happening here since I last spoke with him and his father.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Allen:[/b] Suit yourself, we'll be right here.[/font][/size] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]Van turned to his fellow countryman and sat down on one of the stools provided, Ba had visited this place long before the D.N.A scanner had been installed but he'd not visited here in a long time. He asked Dave for a pint while he was waiting and had another look about the room, there were various pieces of Irish newspapers on the wall as well as several different flags and plaques belonging to the O'Connell family. Van saw that he'd not taken down the picture of Van, Dave and his father during their countless games of poker in the bar, he laughed heartily and then grimaced slightly as he thought of all the different people he'd known and lost in his lifetime. He thought of all the different people he'd known that had died of that accursed mission, Satell, Tex and the others... he wouldn't let Sam down, not this time.[/size][/font][/i] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]Dave returned with the pint of Guinness Van had asked for and put it down on the counter, Van turned and saw that Dave had aged a lot in ten years, although not many people got younger during the course of their life. Picking the pint-glass up in his hand he sniffed it for a moment as if savouring the flavour before gulping back the first mouthful, wiping his lips in ecstasy he patted Dave on the shoulder lightly as the two began talking of times and people gone by. Dave informed him that he'd been running the bar since his father passed away a few years back, Van frowned as apologised for not being at the funeral as he hadn't know when it was, Dave merely smiled and thanked Van even if he was a bit late. Van smiled as he drained off the last of the pint before speaking again.[/size][/font][/i] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] Was that Adam I saw earlier ?, I can't believe he's still here after 10 years.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]David:[/b] A well sure he's a hard worker even if he's not 100% Irish [i]looks over at the others at the table and grins back at Van[/i]. Sure if he left I'd be hard stuck for another doorman like him, he's one hell of a bouncer God bless him.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] Yeah he's a fine strong lad, remember the night Frank tried to cheat us at the game of poker.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]David:[/b] Oh yeah... hahaha, he's not shown his face around here since then, they say he's still afraid of Adam, ah sure he was only having a bit of fun with that deck sure we were all in on it, 'cept Adam maybe.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] Laughs in surprise I wasn't, I thought the little wretch was working on his own, I never knew the two of you'd teamed up against me, Adam and your father, ah sure I suppose it was all a laugh in the end... tell me you still have the picture.[/font][/size] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]Dave reached in down under the bar to produce a color photograph, Van looked a lot younger that he did now although the specks of grey were beginning to show. There were in total three men around the card table in the centre, Dave, Van and Dave's father, there were also two chairs over turned, looking at the near edge of the photo it was still possible to see Adam throwing Frank clear out the door. Van slammed his hand down on the table as he laughed, tears were beginning to stream down his eyes, but they weren't from laughing. Van used his other hand to cover over his eyes as he tried to clear off the tears from his eyes, Dave put his hand of Van's shoulder and patted him telling him that it was OK, coughing and spluttering Van took his hand away to reveal his tear-stung eyes.[/size][/font][/i] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Van:[/b] Oh God I miss them all Dave, your father, your mother, my family, my son, oh God what's wrong with me lately.[/font][/size] [size=1][font=Verdana][b]Allen:[/b] You're still human Van, that trip didn't make you any less susceptible to grief, and I guess coming back here for the first time in a long while has sparked some of it off again.[/font][/size] [i][font=Verdana][size=1]Van wiped his eyes with a tissue and then blew his nose, he finished the pint and asked Dave for another, he sat down at the table feeling better, he tried to lighten to mood by asking what they'd been talking about...[/size][/font][/i]

[font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]I'm sorry this wasn't done sooner Dave but I've been quite ill lately and have only had a chance to edit this now. If there's anything you'd like changed just say so.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Name:[/b] Van Ambrose[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Age:[/b] 83 years old[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Species:[/b] Human[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Gender:[/b] Male[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Allegiance:[/b] Jedi Order[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Weapons and Armor:[/b] Blue single-blade lightsaber, Van unlike many other Jedi does not wear battle-armor preferring to allow his lightsaber skills to act as his defense and thus gaining greater freedom of movement.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Spacecraft:[/b] He is currently commanding the Republican Cruiser [i]Perceptor[/i] to Mechis III along with a several units of Clone Troopers to boast the defenses of the planet. Within the Cruiser itself is a fully prepped Jedi Starfighter should Van have to leave the Cruiser for any required reasons. [/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Biography:[/b] Van was born just over eighty years ago as the youngest child and only son to the ruling royal family on Alderaan, Van was the first-ever case in their history of a Jedi to be born in the family. Surprisingly his father allowed his son go train at the Jedi Temple, he believed a Jedi Master would one day become would be a valuable asset to the family's interesting in the Senate. Van was taken to the Jedi Temple on Coruscant at three and a half years of age, this was the last time he would see his entire family together. He was placed in a clan among many other children although he remembers none so vividly as his Serennonian counterpart Dooku. Van and (does Dooku have a first name?) were hardly separable, both were of royal background, Dooku being a Count by title on his homeworld of Serenno, both had very high medichlorian counts and both showed a remarkable skill in wielding the Force at their age. They were most often to be found practising with one another in many forms of training exercises ranging from the training lightsabers to their control and manipulation of the Force.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]As time passed the two children progressed from early childhood as friends and rivals to one another's skills, Van was more of a pacifist than Dooku believing that the use of the Force as a weapon was against the basic ideals of the Jedi Order. At thirteen both were taken as Padawan Learners by their respective Masters, and began their training in earnest, Van was taken by Jedi Master Keff Garek and Dooku by Jedi Master Thame Cerulian. The two friends and rivals said their goodbyes for now and began their training as Padawan Learners, Van training progressed quickly though it was not without it's bumps. His Master would sometimes note that Van was a dreamer seeing the Republic as it ought to be but not as it actually was. Van's pacifistic nature did not however make him any less talented with a lightsaber; on the contrary Van's skills although not quite jaw-dropping were still very impressive. He could be found training in his free time for hours on end, refining his movement and skills until he was satisfied with what he called "their Finesse".[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Van's skills grew more and more as the years went on, as did his maturity. He developed a keen interest in the history of the Jedi Order as well as a fascination with the history of almost every race in the Galactic Republic. He often spent hours pouring through the data in the Jedi Archives on the basis of the Jedi and their principles, he would often joke saying that uncovering one's past was the key to understanding one's future. His mentor Keff Garek also shared his passion for history and when the two were dispatched upon diplomatic missions they would often try to show the two factions of the same race through means of history that they were not as dissimilar as they believed. Van enjoyed his time with Keff as much as could be expected and when it came for the time for his to take the Trial and become a Jedi himself he was strangely despondent about leaving Keff's side. However when the time came, Van passed the Trials with no difficult and was confirmed as a fully-fledged Jedi Knight, he was almost immediately dispatched to solve a conflict on the very edge of the Republic with none other than his old friend and rival Dooku. The two in a combination of Dooku's eloquent tongue and Van's ability to come up with a fair and reasonable compromise were able to solve the dispute quickly and easily without bloodshed. [/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Van's was called many times to solve disputes the same as all Jedi, however one thing odd about him was the fact that he never took a Padawan Learner of his own. When questioned about this Van replied that he felt that he did not have the necessary skills to teach a Padawan or to raise a child properly into adulthood. Van was not present on Alderaan on both the birth of his nephew Bail Organa or his nephew's ascension as Viceroy after the intervention of revered Jedi Jorus C'baoth, it could be said that Van attempted to leave behind his father's reasons for wanting his to become a Jedi. Van's interest in history would often inspire him to suddenly up and leave to go off to explore the ruins of some ancient world or to spend hours upon end reading through articles in the Jedi Archives pertaining to matters of interest to him. He was deeply shocked at the departure of Count Dooku from the Jedi Order and often wished he'd kept in better touch believing that he may have been able to somehow talk him out of his decision. He was present during the battle of Geonosis and now understands that the man he once knew as his friend is gone forever, he has been ordered to go to Mechis III along with several other Jedi Masters in an attempt to somehow halt the assault. He is not unfamiliar with General Grievous and is not looking forward to meeting him in combat...[/color][/size][/font]

[font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]OK here you go Zidargh, done and dusted.[/color][/size][/font] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Name:[/b] Van Ambrose[/size][/font][/color] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Age:[/b] 34[/size][/font][/color] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Gender:[/b] Male[/size][/font][/color] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Sexuality:[/b] Heterosexual (He's even made several passes at Elena although all have been unsuccessful.)[/size][/font][/color] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Alliance:[/b] The Turks[/size][/font][/color] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Personality:[/b] There are many words that could be used to describe the mentality of Van Ambrose, from a strict recruitment point of view he'd be described as being intelligent, athletic, highly skilled, enduring and capable but suffering from occasional emotionally based flaws. Those that have worked with him would describe him as being fiery, spirited and passionate, it these words sum up nearly all motivation for Van's actions as a member of The Turks as well as his personality outside of work. Van is also a very decent, fair and honest individual who can be depended upon to do the right thing in any given situation, thought this can sometimes give his superiors headaches because for them the right thing mightn't be the "right thing". Although some may say that he sometimes lacks the clear thinking that would make him a more effective agent Van has never allowed his feelings or his nature to compromise his usefulness in the field. He is by comparison the parallel opposite of several other members of The Turks who are cold and lack any form of emotion about their work. Van could never understand their motivations because they seemed to lack any kind of passion to get them going about their work or their missions. [/size][/font][/color] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Due to Van's nature and personality many people question his reasons for joining The Turks. From growing up Van knows the stories of how The Turks kept the Shin-Ra organisation in power through acts of terrorism and violence towards those who would stand up and attempt to fight the oppressive corporation. It has even been implied that they were responsible for collapsing part of the upper-Plate, which crushed Sector 7 as a response to the attacks by the group AVALANCHE. Van is unsure whether the Turks are responsible for such and action but knows that it is possible, he someday plans to ask Reno that question and find out for himself. Van believes that the Turks could become and organisation to protect the people of Midgar from other dangers from the outside world such as these new groups SENTINEL and RESISTANCE.[/color][/size][/font] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Biography:[/b] Van was born in the sub-Plate area of Sector 7 nearly four decades ago to still unknown parents, though it is assumed that they died either shortly before or after him being abandoned. It was through a force of chance or rather luck that a well-to-do banker found-upon him just after exiting the local bar 7th Heaven after a night of despondent drinking. The banker's name was Dominic Ambrose and he'd been drowning his sorrows at the deaths of his wife and son during childbirth. Being severely inebriated he took finding the baby as a sign from those above that he should raise this child as his own son since neither of them appeared to have anything else in this world bar one another. Taking Van with him back to his home in the Plate Level of Midgar, this would the last time for more than twenty years that Van would return to his place of birth, Dominic treated Van from that day forth as though he was his own flesh and blood son. He even went as far as giving the child the name him that he'd chosen for his own son who'd died at birth, it was around this time that his "father" decided to withhold the event surrounding Van's birth and rescue until he was old enough to understand. [/size][/font][/color] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]And so Van's childhood began with him having absolutely no memory of the events that surrounded his birth and rescue from the Sub-Plate Sectors. His father turned out to be one of the more wealthy bankers of Midgar who had several dealings with Shin-Ra on a very legal basis, his father taught Van from an early age that honest dealings with people was always the best policy for business. Van was sent to quite an exclusive private school for his education, Dominic wanted to make sure that Van never again ended up back where he found him the years before. It would have been considered it peculiar by many people that Van felt at-odds with his situation, he never truly felt like he belonged where he was, although his father plainly understood the reasons for such a feeling. Overcoming these initial feelings Van proved to have a keen wit and a bright mind to him and was quite successful in his studies. Van wanted to make sure that he could repay his father for all that he had done for him one day. While blessed with a sagacious intellect Van was also a keen athlete and it was this that brought him to join the school dojo of martial arts from a sensei from Wutai. [/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]His studies of the martial arts progressed although it took longer than other things, but this never bothered Van, he preferred to take the proper amount of time to do something or else it was not worth doing at all. And so life continued like this for Van, from the age of 8 to 18 his time was spent in the same routine of education and martial arts, his father was supportive of his son in every endeavour Van made at life. By the time he reached 23 it appeared that Van seemed to have grown out of the feeling that he didn't belong, such a thing was not true, he'd never felt comfortable with the life he had been given. Van felt that there was something that he didn't know about himself that would make a difference to his life and maybe rid him of the feeling of that he didn?t belong. Dominic still did not feel that the time had come for Van to learn of his origins, he suggested that Van go on a trip to Cosmo Canyon, a place that Van had always expressed a desire to visit. Van saw this as a possible ruse but decided that a vacation might to him some good to get out of the city for a while, he packed some things and went on his trip to Cosmo Canyon the following week.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Van always had a keen love of history and mythology and would spend ages just reading quietly to himself in the libraries or gazing at the stars in the observatory if he was permitted. It was while he was here that the Shin-Ra Corporation first approached him with an offer to join them, they said that they'd be reviewing his progress at his school as well as his training records at the dojo and they believed he'd make a capable operative. Van knew this was odd, Shin-Ra didn't just approach you like this and try and recruit you, well at least not from he knew about their methods. Van at that stage had also very little interest in fighting for some company just to keep people in line and plainly refused their offer. Taken aback by this blunt refusal to join Shin-Ra the recruiter began to "test" Van through a number of annoying and yet frequent encounters while he attempted to enjoy his vacation. Van did his best to ignore these untimely meetings and continued to just enjoy him holiday in Cosmo Canyon, however this was plainly contrary to the wishes of the Shin-Ra Agent who continued to harass Van wherever he went. In the end Van was so agitated by the very presence of the individual that he attempted to kill him by throw him off a cliff in the Canyons.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]It was after this incident that Van was left well alone for the remainder of his vacation, unfortunately for Van his father grew quite ill around this time and he was forced to return to Midgar to be with his father. His father revealed to him that he was dying from a congenital heart illness that affected all male members of the family once they'd reached their mid 50s, he told his son that there was no cure and that he would soon die. Van was heartbroken at the news and concentrated all effort on making his father's last days and weeks more comfortable, he father in turn go everything ready for Van to take on the role of the Banking Director at the firm his father had founded. Fourteen weeks later on August 12th Van's father Dominic passed away without ever telling his son his origins, in reality Dominic Ambrose felt that he was Van's biological father and wouldn't do anything that might deny such a fact. Van took on the role of Banking Director and held the post for just over 4 years, during this period of time he became obsessed with improving the company so that it would be one of the most profitable in all of Midgar and stand tribute to his father.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]However due to his policy of dealing with people he'd made several enemies inside Shin-Ra as well as his refusal to join The Turks had left them scheming away at a plot for revenge against the young orphaned entrepreneur. Their chance presented itself when they learned that Van had recently dispatched a high level Administrator from the company in connection with corruption charges for several of Shin-Ra's executives. Using this as a cover they had their lawyers work on a way to implicate Van as a conspirator in the corruption charges and even went so far as to implicate that it was Van and not the Administrator who's be giving out bribes to Shin-Ra executives. Van was sentenced to 5 years in a Shin-Ra prison in the underground levels of Migdar. Shin-Ra with Van out of the way placed one of their puppets at the head of the Banking firm ensuring that it would run into the ground within the year. Everything he'd known was gone, his father, his lifestyle, his company and now his freedom. The prison life was harsh and brutal and nothing like he'd ever expected, everyday was a fight for survival and Van still believes that had it not been for the physical training he did as a young man he'd have not survived his sentence.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Coming back out after his prison term Van was just released in time to learn that the World might end soon, he said he'd never forget the hysteria and panic caused by the Meteor. It was during this time that he was once again approached by The Turks, this time by Reno and asked if he was still interested in joining, with nothing left to lose and everything to gain he accepted and became a Turk operative. Since then Van has steadily risen through the ranks of the Turks and become one of their best operatives, he was present during the rebuilding of the old Shin-Ra building and served for a time of the board for acceptance into The Turks. He still keeps with him all the ideals his father even imparted to him and one day hopes to undo all the damage that Shin-Ra and SOLDIER and The Turks have done.. [/color][/size][/font] [left][color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Weapons:[/b] Van uses weapons that suit the situation at hand, although he is equally adept at both Melee and Medium/Long range forms of combat he prefers stick to Melee unless necessary to success. These traits make him a very adaptable member of The Turks, of course that would mean that he'd have to carry around a range of weapons but Van has limited them to what he deems necessary although this can sometimes give him a disadvantage in the field if he is not properly prepared.[/size][/font][/color][/left] [left][font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]- [i][u]Melee Combat[/u][/i] - Samurai Sword - See Attachment [/color][/size][/font][/left] [left][font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]- [i][u]Medium/Long Range Combat[/u][/i] - 9mm 92-FS Pistol - See Attachment [/color][/size][/font][/left] [color=black][font=Verdana][size=1][b]Appearance:[/b] [img]http://www.darkhorizons.com/1997/jackal/jack05.jpg[/img] As seen here, this was taken during Van's prison term. Van is supposed to garb the normal clothing of The Turks when working but generally prefers looses clothing that allow him to blend in with the crowd. Although some of the lower ranking members of The Turks dislike Van's sometimes unprofessional look there is no doubting his abilities in the field.[/size][/font][/color]

[font=Verdana][size=1]And so the mysterious Oakenot Tournament is revealed to us, I shall enjoy this Gavynn as will everyone else I imagine.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Your Name:[/b] Lynx [b]Prize:[/b] A new Porsche [b]Favorite Terrain:[/b] Big City[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][img]http://myimages.fourvalve.com/oakenot/ooper.JPG[/img] [/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Name:[/b] Ooper [b]Gender:[/b] Male [b]Abilities:[/b] Wood work, blacksmith, cooking [b]Weapons:[/b] Hammer, Saw [b]Bio:[/b] What a handy man! Ooper is your one and only do-it-yourself kind of guy. He builds things and cook. It?s a wonder why he?s single? ladies ;). He may be old, but he?s still in good shape aside from his roundish figure. He?s also quite short, but that never stops him. Like Mana, he?s never been angry and is always there to give a helping hand. [/size][/font]

[font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]We've never had a house fire like that happen to us here, but about a week before the renovations of our current house which had belonged to my grandfather the house door was kicked in and the house was burgled. From my knowledge of the event I don't think they actually got anything since we hadn't moved our stuff in.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1]My grandmother's house has been burgled a couple of times since she lives with us and she's lost a lot of possessions that belonged to her family and many of her now deceased friends so I agree with Cloricus when he says that possessions do mean stuff to people.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1]I hope your mother will be OK and I hope that you family will be able to move on after this accident. Good luck and God Bless.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=#ff0000][color=black][QUOTE][/color][size=2][color=black]Originally Posted by Mitch[/color][/size][/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=#ff0000]Out of the deal we got a big screen TV for cheap, from insurance or whatnot. I guess it was worth it in the end[/color][color=black][/QUOTE][/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]I guess that's one way of looking at it...[/color][/size][/font]

[font=Verdana][size=1]Here's a revised sign up and I'll stick with my current character's social group.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Name:[/b] Gavin "Van" Ambrose[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Age:[/b] 17[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Gender:[/b] Male[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Social Group:[/b] Preen [/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Short Description:[/b] Van stands just over 6'3 in height and weighs approximately 85 KGs, he has an athletic body that has quite well defined muscles. He has longish scruffy looking chestnut brown hair that reaches down to the end of his neck/top of his shoulders, it cannot be straightened and Van has the experience of trying. His fringe has a tendency to get in the way of his eyes when his head is tilted down looking at something but that doesn't happen too often. [/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1]Wears the normal bureaucratic clothing of a Preen his age. A dark slate grey long sleeved shirt with black formal trousers and a black leather belt running around the waist. He has a silver wristwatch over his left wrist and the typical cross on his right. His clothing is always spotless, kept impeccably clean and well pressed. If needs be he dons a white tie and black jacket to match the pants. [/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Personality:[/b] Intelligent, cold, calculating, ruthless, maniplulative and above all emotionless. Van like any other of the Preen goes through life caring only for himself, his own needs and his own wants. Van like every other Preen has no consideration for any of this from lower Social Groups and despises seeing such people near him. Van's particular abilities have lead him into the Governament or what's left of it, he is adept at manipulation of people and can quite easily sway individuals to think as he thinks and do as he says.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Deepest Desire:[/b] More power, as with all men of power Van want's even more of it if possible, he sees himself as a leader rather than a follower and will do what is necessary to further this desire. His lack of emotions is quite helpful in these endeavours, as he doesn't have to worry about sorrow or guilt over his actions.[/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Bio:[/b] I'll Edit this. [/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][b]Additional Information:[/b] I don't think there's anything I missed.[/size][/font]

[i][font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Van felt his legs going numb from sitting too long and decided to go for a little walk around the room to get the circulation going again. Standing up he moved out towards the hallway before stopping and rubbing his legs to try and get the feeling back, he saw a young woman coming down the corridor, she was very beautiful even to a 71 year old man like Van. There was something about her that Van couldn't place his finger on, did he know her, didn't he or was she someone he recognised from the news. She was dressed in all white with very attractive facial features, pale blue eyes and shoulder length blonde hair. [/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Her eyes met with his when they were about 4 meters from one another, she stopped and narrowed them as if she was scanning him, it was eerie in a sort of way and made Van feel quite uncomfortable. There was definitely military training about her, she had the posture and the look about her that just seemed to cry out that she'd been training with military precision. Her eyes moved up and down his body before resting on the name tag on the upper left side of his chest. Her eyes widened for a moment and then returned to a normal width neither surprised looking or suspicious. She spoke in a calm, clear voice with a hint of a French accent.[/color][/size][/font][/i] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Helena:[/b] Doctor Ambrose is it ?, that would make you Dr Van Ambrose Cheif Medical Officer of the Bladerunner 15 years ago.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Van:[/b] Dr Ambrose is a bit too formal for my likings, but yes that's me. And you are ?[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Helena:[/b] Helena Bahbem, I'll be the Strategy Specialist on this mission. If you would be so kind I'd like to meet with Captain Allen Chubb.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Van:[/b] Sure, I just came out here to strech my legs. The rest of the crew are on their way here hopefully so we're having an informal meeting before the proper briefing. [/color][/size][/font] [i][font=Verdana][size=1][color=black]Van walking nodded to the person accompanying Helena who promptly left the too and returned to the outer perimeter of the building. Van put his hand forward to allow Helena to pass him as they re-entered the room, and they informed her where Allen and the others were sitting. Walking at a brisk pace Van poured himself a cup of Turkish Apple tea before rejoining the group as Helena finished introducing herself to the rest of the crew. It was then that he noticed another person had entered the room and was heading straight for them, she was dressed in a light grey suit and had dark brown hair and a had a look that Van couldn't quite determine... excitement maybe. Van stood up as he approached and held out his hand to meet hers.[/color][/size][/font][/i] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Lilia: [/b]Lilia Sethen, Communications specialist.[/color][/size][/font] [font=Verdana][size=1][color=black][b]Van:[/b] Dr Van Ambrose, Cheif Medical Officer.[/color][/size][/font]

[quote][b]Finally the skirmish is over, and it's a miracle no one died. However, now you all have even less life, and there's a Heart Container in the next room that will not only restore you to full health, but also lengthen your life meter. Your argument for who should get it?[/b] [list][*]Screw the argument! *yoink!*[/list][/quote] [size=1]Heh heh that was an excellent quiz although I haven't had time to finish it yet. I think you've done an excellent job here Desbreko and you deserve a pat on the back. The way that each Link has a complete personality of his own as well as his own likes and dislikes is a tribute to your brilliance. I'll tell you who I got when I finish the quiz although I looks pretty likely to be Blue Link since I share a lot of his likes and dislikes, damn Red Link and his rushing.[/size]

[size=1]When I first bought my Yugi Starter Deck I played against my younger brother who'd bought the Kaiba Starter Deck, it was a simple case of who got their most powerful monster out first and would then really role on from there. After a while though my brother lost interest. Lately though I've been duelling in a movie memorabillia store in Limerick City which is a bit of a drive away but the closest place there are duels on. I've got the reputation of over using Spellcaster Decks but that really is just sore losers talking since I like dueling with the guys who are there most of the time and we have some good matches. I bought WWE for the GBA and I thought it was good although I didn't duel anyone and had it beaten quite qucikly with my Deck. I thought the most difficult duelest was Odion because of his damn Jinzo but that was only in cases where he actually got it onto the field.[/size]

[size=1]Heh heh that was a very good read especially the last bit which happens sometimes to high profile or heavily discussed threads, well that or someone starts the same thread over again.[/size]

[size=1]I think that this has been far too long in the wings for most Star Wars Fans but I suppose it's just set to tie in with the release of the final instalment of the "New Trilogy" which has been a bit of a joke compared to the "Old One". Still though if I have to wait another few months more it won't kill me. As for these new "inclusions" to the series I too would like to voice my morbid apprehension, I saw the originals in my youth and then saw the re-releases in the cinema a few years ago. It's true that additional scenes could be a good thing as long as they keep it to a set minimum and nothing too obvious. I think though only time will tell. This is fantastic news for any Star Wars fanatic out there.[/size]

[size=1][b][center]7 Hours Later[/b][/center] [I]It seemed he'd underestimated the guile of Dr. Birch who'd seemed to have a couple of accomplices on board the plane who were equally intent to annoy him. Van had to endure four different people besides Birch who seemed to know who he was and asking him about making deals with various pharmaceutical companies, after the first two Van made it clear that he had no intention of even answering their questions. However this left them unfazed and they continued speaking even as he plainly ignored them. Finally Van had had enough and walked up to the bar to get a drink and some peace, while there he managed to be able to slip some tranquillisers into the drinks of his would-be interviewers. Once the last one had fallen to sleep Van leaned back to get some rest. His dreams were the same as they'd been for the last few weeks, Sam crying out for help as his numerous hell-spawned offspring attacked him, tearing him apart as he cried out for help.[/I] [b][center]5 Hours Later[/b][/center] [I]Van watched at the aircraft touched down on the tarmac runway at the airport, it had been a very long flight and Van still feeling exhausted tired even after his nightmare filled sleep. He pulled himself from his seat and took out his luggage in preparation for leaving the plane and heading to New Madison, Van had heard a lot about the place but never visited. It seemed that Birch had seen Van's little ploy and was busy shaking his cohorts away with a look of pure spite across his face. Van stepped out into the fresh air and at once felt better, it was strangely stale but Los Angeles was a very large city. Hailing a taxi Van found himself once again pursued by the now relentless Dr Birch, if only Van had a gun he may have done something he'd later regret. The taxi pulled up and Van stepped in followed by Birch, he seemed only too intent to share the cab but a swift shove from Van saw him down onto the curb.[/I] [b]Cabby:[/b] So where you headed dude ? [b]Van:[/b] New Madison please, and if that worm out there asks you to stop please don't. [b]Cabby:[/b] You're the boss Doc Ambrose. [b]Van:[/b] How do you know my name ? [b]Cabby:[/b] Hell at Med. School there's entire theories devoted to you, some are a little on the funky side and not so flattering. [b]Van:[/b] So your a Doctor in training I suppose ?, Would you mind if we talk on the way I'm in a bit of a hurry. [b]Cabby:[/b] Hey no problem and yeah I'm in Med. School, second year there. Phillip O'Donnell, Biogenetic Research. [b]Van:[/b] Look I know you might love to question me an everything but I'm quite tired from the flight from Ireland... O'Donnell is an Irish name, your father Irish ? [b]Phillip:[/b] Yeah he's from Tipperary, near something called Slievenamon you now the place ? [b]Van:[/b] It's a mountain and yeah I live there [I]hands him $200[/I], Alright I'm gonna snooze for a while, give me a shout when we get there. [b]Phillip:[/b] Woah, thanks man. [b][center]45 Minutes Later[/b][/center] [b]Phillip:[/b] Doc Ambrose, wake up, we're here. [b]Van:[/b] Uhhh, Thanks kid, keep the change and stay in school. [I]Van stepped out although so did Phillip, he asked Van to come with him and that he'd take him to the Control Room to meet with the others, Van frowned for not seeing through the obvious deception put on by the kid but he supposed the accent had fooled him.[/I] [B]Van:[/b] So where are we headed ? [b]Phillip:[/b] It's not far to Mission Control but I thought you'd like some tea first. [b]Van:[/b] And I suppose your not a Med. Student either. [b]Phillip:[/b] Actually I was about 6 years ago now I'm a Doctor of Biogenetics here and yes my father is Irish from Tipperary so I haven't lied to you yet. [I]Van was lead into an open cafeteria where he found Allen sitting with several other gentlemen. Allen saw him and stood up at the two embraced each other, Phillip had gone to get Van his tea and Allen obviously knew what was on Van's mind.[/I] [b]Allen:[/b] The others will be along shortly Van.[/size]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by ChibiHorsewoman [/i] [B][color=violet]This may sound cynical, but I don't believe any of this ever happened in the first place. What person in their right mind would volunteer to be eaten by another person in the first place? And second, what sane person would take someone up on this offer?[/color][/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]This did happen because the cannibal is up for trial in Germany this month after being locked in prison since November. I've read the story in about 3 different newspapers (two of which are broadsheet respectable newspapers). About the guys themselves: [list][*][b]The Deceased:[/b] I think from what I've read the guy was severely depressed and suicidal. He volunteered for this just to die (this may not be the case in totality). [*][b]The Accused:[/b] Is an absolute nutter, I think he worships the occult or something and did this to prove his devotion to some demon god. He has shown no remorse over what he 's done and doesn't ever plan to.[/list] That's all I know at the moment but I suppose it'll be on the news when he finally comes to trial.[/size]

[size=1]An interesting possiblity, [sarcasm]I can just see numberous shopping centres opening up in the many terrorist training camps around the world allowing the individuals there-in to purchase MP3 players and and listen to music while training to launch a holy war against the "Infidels of the West".[/sarcasm][/size] [QUOTE][i]Originally posted by ChibiHorsewoman [/i] [B][color=violet]I keep having these images of people trying to switch tracks in their MP3s and shooting themselves in the head instead which is probably why this whole idea will never go over.[/color] [/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]I was thinking the exact same thing, [b]Terrorist A:[/b] All right next track...... [i]gun goes off[/i] [b]Terrorist B:[/b] Ahhh ****....[/size]

[Size=1][Center][b]Final Update and Post of Star Wars: Potential Revealed[/b][/center] I'd like to inform everyone participating in this RPG that they have my thanks for helping to make this a success but all good thing must come to an end, yes that means that this RPG has run it's course and must now come to an end. But let's not grieve for as I said when I began it this is the beginning of an entire series of RPGs so as you can imagine the sequel itself to this RPG which I have dubbed [b]Rise of the Dark Lords[/b] will be coming along soon enough (roughly 2 weeks). Now as I can already tell some of you are wondering why this is coming to an end now, well there's a simple reason, [b]a lack of people[/b]. Now when I made my last update I was highly optimistic that there would be enough however as time has gone by too many people have dropped out of the RPG. The major player's have received PM informing them of the situation at hand so without further adieu I'm going to end this RPG on this post. I'd like to commit my gratitude to the following individuals and hope to see their characters in the next RPG: [list][*]Boba Fett - For your constant and excellent posts and your knowledge of the Star Wars Universe that is unparalleled against anyone else on OB. [*]Drix D'Zanth - For you magnificent portrayal of the Bounty Hunter Boba Fett and your detailed knowledgeable posts. [*]Yoda - For you superb role-playing which I've been lucky to be able to have long experience with. [*]For everyone else who signed up - For at least giving this a try which helped it get off the Sign Up section.[/list] [center]----------------------------------[/center] [I]Van felt his head slam down upon the cold floor of Boba Fett's holding cell on Slave I, attempting to shake off the effects of the concussion grenade's effect he was able to open his eyes if only partially. Everything seemed blurry and disproportionate and Van felt sick just looking around, Fett stood not 4 feet away behind the blue holding field. He appeared at least from his posture to be injured and although his image was blurred beyond recognition Van knew it was him.[/i] [b]Fett:[/b] Well, one of them is better than neither of them, I should be able to collect a decent bounty on this young Jedi. [I]Van knew that Thrukh must have been able to free Jedgar and get him off Slave I before Fett go back with him, he only hoped that Jedgar was able to get away far enough so as to avoid capture. His mind drifted to Obi-Wan and his friends, he hoped that they'd be all right or would Fett relay their position to the orbiting Star Destroyer, he felt like vomiting from the inability to see and from the effects that grenade had on him. Fett didn't stay much longer although from Van's point of view it seemed like an eternity, after several minutes Fett turned on his hell and with an audible groan he walked out of the Holding Area and made his way towards the cockpit.[/I] [center][b]36 Hours Later[/b][/center] [b]Fett:[/b] Come one get up !, you've got a meeting with the Emperor. [b]Van:[/b] Yeah, and I'm sure you've got a few thousand credits coming out of the deal. [b]Fett:[/b] [I]Sarcastically[/I] Perceptive aren't you, now get up ! [I]Van staggered to his feet but found himself much more awake and in control than he had been when Fett had managed to capture him, it seemed at least that the Emperor wanted him alive. For now at least that was a good thing but it could quickly change into a very bad situation, Van felt around for his lightsaber but knew that Fett wasn't stupid enough to leave it in his possession. Van stood up as best he could and looked directly into the visor of Fett as if attempting to see into his mind. Fett frowned under his helmet and caught Van by the cuffs still held around his wrists and led him off the ship. Van looked around at Coruscant, his home, and for the first time ever he shuddered to be far away from his beloved homeland. Van was bedraggled looking, a torn uniform cut and stained with blood in several places looked very out of place in the grace and splendour of the Imperial Palace. After several metres a platoon of guards arrived to meet with Fett and Van, Van looked into the black visor that covered the Storm Troopers faces and felt another shiver run down his spine. Van felt anger flow from Fett towards the Troopers as if he was being cheated.[/I] [b]Squad Commander:[/b] We'll take the prisoner off your hands and you can meet with the Emperor later to discuss your bounty. [b]Fett:[/b] I don't think so, I'll take the kid to the Emperor myself and then collect my bounty, if you've got a problem then I suggest you go talk to your superiors. [b]Squad Commander:[/b] That's fine, you can take him to the Emperor and we'll just escort you there to make sure you don't try anything. [I]Van was led down the halls and finally into the chamber of the Emperor, it's poor lighting was obviously an attempt by the Emperor to induce fear into those he dealt with but Van was going to make sure that he wasn't able to do it to him. The ageing being sat decrepit in his chair as if he had withered into it, his black garments relayed his allegiance to the Dark Side as did his cold dead eyes that lacked any manner of pity or grace. His two servants Vader and Revenant flanked the Emperor, both clad in black they gave off the same aura as their master. Fett's wrist-cuffs came free and Van rubbed them to see if they'd been injured, they hadn't which was something positive in this whole mess. The Emperor gave Van a wry smile, and Van shuddered again at this being of malevolence, still smiling the Emperor asked Van to come closer so that he could talk to him as one of the Empire's proud servants. Van felt disgusted at that name even though he had once believed it to be worth everything he'd ever fought for, he took several steps forward and made a weak bow as if in some form of rebellion.[/I] [b]Emperor Palpatine:[/b] [I]Still smiling[/I] Van Ambrose, it's so nice to see you, I believe you were reassigned to my personal staff a week ago but it appears as if you've had a bit of a side-tracking. Never mind we can still recover that with pace. [I]Turns to Vader[/I] Vader will you get our young guest a change of clothing so that he can feel comfortable, and Revenant [I]Now facing Skywalker[/I] please give our guest back his weapon that Mr. Fett relieved him of. [b]Fett:[/b] Excuse me, but I think there's the little matter of my bounty for the boy. [b]Emperor:[/b] Yes, but there appears to be one missing, the Bothan Nieta what happened, I assume he perished otherwise he'd be here. [b]Fett:[/b] [I]Lying[/I] Yes a unknown Noghri terminated him before I had the chance to capture him. [b]Emperor Palpatine:[/b] [I]Aware of the lie[/I] Yes I can see how that would be unfortunate, now the credits I promised you are already in your account 46 million for the mission and the bounty. You may leave now. [b]Fett:[/b] Thank you and I look forward to more business from you later. [I]Fett turned on his heels and marched out leaving only Van and his captures, Vader soon returned along with Revenant with the new clothing and Van's lightsaber. Van knew all too well that both Vader and Revenant would be armed with lightsabers and with their better training than Van he wouldn't have stood a chance. Van took the new clothing and asked if there was somewhere he could change, the Emperor smiled and pointed towards a side room, entering it seemed all too normal, changing quickly Van found it to be a long dark grey robes which fit Van perfectly. Walking out Revenant placed Van's lightsaber into his hand and turned marching back towards him lord, Van thought there was something in the eyes of Skywalker, something different as hint of betrayal if so that could work out to Van's advantage. Walking slowly back towards the Emperor Van heard the unmistakable hiss of a lightsaber from behind him, drawing his own out of instinct he ignited the saber and faced his opponent. It was a Chiss Van knew that their specie's cunning and intelligence gave them an advantage over humans, the Chiss's lightsaber was a deep crimson and he was garbed in dark green robes. Van took a moment to study him before raising his saber in a defensive position, the Emperor stood up from his seat and called out in a loud voice.[/I] [b]Emperor Palpatine:[/b] Now that your both ready I will tell you why I have brought you here, you are to be the next in a line of Sith Lords there can be only one student and you've both shown exceptional skill now you will pit those skills against one another and the winner shall become me newest apprentice, as for the loser well he will die. BEGIN !! [I]Lunging at Van the Chiss had taken a very aggressive stance, his lightsaber skills seemed to be on par with Van's which for his sake was a good thing, Van kept to a defensive stance holding his saber so that he could block the on-coming strikes but also so that he wouldn't kill his opponent unless necessary. The Chiss was smaller than him but faster so they both had advantages, Van began to circle around him so that if possible he could flick the saber out of the Chiss hands, moving quickly the Chiss began to circle him also. Even though Van couldn't see the Emperor or his servants he knew that the two students impressed him, the Chiss attempted a bold vertical slash down onto Van's saber trying to dislodge it from his hand but Van responded by kicking into the Chiss's midsection. Falling back both of the held their lightsabers ready for an attack, the Chiss saw that Van wouldn't attack him directly so this would give him an advantage, the human was weak he didn't press his advantage. Leaping several metres into the air Van's opponent swing down as to catch Van's back while he turned, Van rolled forwards turned and swung his lightsaber round, a shrill scream of pain was heard from the Chiss who fell down onto the floor with a wide gash through his spine. Van shut off his saber and ran across to the Chiss, turning him over Van found him to be dead, Van felt sick at what he'd done and threw his lightsaber to the ground in an attempt at rebellion against the Emperor. The Emperor laughed and called Van to bow before him, Van walked forward cautiously and merely stood at attention, the Emperor smiled and produced a datapad that he wanted Van to look at. Still smiling the Emperor looked on as Van's face grew grim and angry, the datapad contained the vicious murder of his family, his father, his mother and his brother. Van angered beyond control seized out for his saber and swung down upon the tyrant's neck. Vader intercepted it with his own lightsaber and then laughed loudly, the Emperor laughed and Revenant smiled, drawing his own saber Revenant cut the Emperor down where he sat, his head rolled down the steps towards Van who merely kicked it away. Vader turned to his son and his posture suggested surprise, Vader spoke in a calm cool voice as if his wasn't capable of passion.[/I] [b]Vader:[/b] Do you intend to kill me as well or am I to continue as your servant. [b]Revenant:[/b] You will go to Ossus and finish off the Jedi while I finish the training of our young friend here... [i]On that day Van left all that was good behind him, he had taken his steps down the dark path and it would forever dominate his destiny and the destiny of the galaxy for 10 years to come.[/i] [b]To be continued in [i]Rise of the Dark Lords[/i] don't miss it[/b][/size]

[size=1]There's a few thing that I do if I feel tired but just can't seem to get to sleep, these mightn't work as well for other people but it's just for a reference to see if it works for you. [list][*][B]Read a book:[/b] Not the most difficult task to do when you feel tired, preferably make it something interesting so that you can relax while reading it and eventually just turn over and go to sleep. [*][b]Go out for a breath of fresh air:[/b] I find this one to be personally the most effective if I feel over tired. Just put on a coat and go out for a five minute walk, you'll be surprised as to how much better you feel when you come back inside and I guarantee that you'll sleep better. [*][b]Have a talk with someone you know about good times:[/b] This will relax you I promise, be it your father / mother / brother / sister etc. this will relax your mind and get you to sleep. [*][b]Have a bath or a shower:[/b] Which ever you prefer the hot water will relax all the muscle in your body and get rid of any tense feelings. This in turn will allow your mind to rest itself and should help you sleep.[/list] Well that's it, if it works then knowing that I've saved somebody from insomnia[/size]

[size=1]As part of the Irish educational system I am obliged to have to learn the two national languages, Irish and English as well as one foriegn one for entry into a University. In my old secondary school the only option for a foriegn language was French so there was no choice but to learn it, I've been learning it for five years and although I can speak French in segments if I have time to prepare it I wouldn't be able to do so straight out because I'm a little rusty. In terms of difficulty I never found French to be all that difficult but I am good a languages to that did help. For school trips every two years we used to go to Paris however they stopped that so it's a pity as it would have been good practice.[/size]

[size=1]My five favourite actors and actresses, well I'm really stuck on this one because like most people who just love movies in general and don't go see film specifically for the actors who were in them. [list][*][b]Tom Hanks[/b] A truly brilliant actor who's brought his character to life perfectly in every film he's ever been in. He's got an ability to invoke emotion like no other actor I've ever seen and has starred in some of the most memorable films in recent cinema history. If I had to pick three of my favourite Tom Hanks films they'd be: [i]Forest Gump, Saving Private Ryan and CastAway[/i]. Not just because of the War genre they feature in (hell CastAway doesn't even fit there) but because of the character's he portrayed, tell the story so fluently and well. Character's like Forest Gump would take mounds of ability to portray well and Hanks does it superbly, other films like Road to Perdition in which he actually had a decent Irish accent and his role in the Green Mile are just extra shows of his talent. [*][b]Al Pachino[/b] Another great actor however I think that his skills tend to only work in certain roles or genres or else his performance won't be so great. This man has been the greatest Mafia actor [i]ever[/i] I know others like Robert de Niro, Ray Liota and Joe Peschi have attempted to take his thunder before but failed. His roles in the Godfather are what really made those films worth watching (beyond the excellent story) and his redemption at the end of the Godfather Part III is why I actually prefer it to the previous instalments. Other than the Godfather Trilogy he's been great roles in Carlito's Way, Scarface, Heat (I'm told, I haven't actually seen it) and The Recruit (which had it's moments). [*][b]Harrison Ford[/b] Han Solo or Indiana Jones call him which ever you like the roles are phenomenal and this man owes his livelihood to one George Lucas. I think though that people tend to just keep staring at those two roles and think that that's all Ford has done when of course there have been a multitude of others ranging from "Mr. President" in Air Force One as well his roles in the Clear and Present Danger as well as it's sequels/prequels (I'm not sure whether it's the first or the last one). However that not withstanding I think his roles as Indiana Jones the treasure hunting adventure nut and Han Solo the roguish pirate are his best in my own humble opinion. [*][b]Kevin Spacey[/b] K-Pax, I loved this film and I know many, many of you despise it but I have to say that this is one of if not my favourite films ever, I'm a sci-fi nut I'll more than likely love anything that has to do with sci-fi. However it isn't just the fact that this film is sci-fi based that made me love this film I mean the story to it is genius as are the characters and the actors who play them including Jeff Bridges. I'm getting off point though as this is supposed to be about Spacey, other films he's been in including Ordinary Decent Criminal and others that I just can't remember the names of at the moment have shown his excellent acting abilities. [*][b]Morgan Freeman[/b] It's a travesty that this man has not yet been voted by anyone but me, I mean this man has acting talent that rivals the best in the world and he's older than most of them. Take his role of Red in The Shawshank Redemption I mean how can you not have enjoyed this character he was brilliant the voice of reason and moderation in the prison who kept everyone from going insane. There are several other films which show this mans excellent acting skills but I just can't remember the names of the films, when I do I'll come back and edit these.[/list] I suppose that's it then. [/size]

[size=1]Great this is up it's good to get back into the swing of things. [I]Van sat in his seat carefully watching all those who passed him, even in First Class you had to watch out for individuals who might like to relieve you of your belongings. Thankfully for all intents and purposes nobody seemed to even give Van a second look, he held a glass of Italian red wine in his hand a gave it a small swirl before taking a sip. Sam.... his mind had been tortured by his failure to help his friend, how could he have missed it.... he was the one who was supposed to keep everyone alive and well and even at that he'd failed miserably. The plane would take a while to get from Shannon to Los Angeles and then on to New Madison, even with the new engines there was still no such thing as a quick Trans-Atlantic journey on a plane.[/I] [b]Unknown Individual:[/b] So how are you enjoying your flight Dr. Ambrose. [I]Van was taken aback by this stranger who'd sat down next to him, he seemed to know Van but that was understandable since the crew of the Bladerunner had become practical heroes for stopping the infestation of the Chaos Dimension getting to Earth. Heck the Pope had given them all his blessings and awards from the Catholic Church, and that was something that didn't happen to you everyday. Still Van wondered how this individual knew who he was, after the Event Horizon mission Van had left the public image and moved back home to Ireland and hadn't been seen much since.[/I] [b]Van:[/b] And you are ? [b]Unknown Individual:[/b] My name is Dr. William Birch and I'm interested in finding out about what happened to your body when you were retrieved aboard the Event Horizon before it blew. [b]Van:[/b] You know damn well that I don't talk about that to anyone, and since I'm my own doctor I don't have to get check-ups from anyone else. [I]Birch gave Van a kind of a smirk as if he was happy to be getting under Van's skin, Van was liking this guy less and less every second.[/I] [b]Dr. Birch:[/b] Well there's a lot of money in it for you, I mean it's not everyday that somebody's body is rebuilt to [I]perfection[/I] as well as your age being reversed by what 20 years.... [b]Van:[/b] Let me tell you something Birch, I don't like you ! I don't like people like you who are only interested in turning me into a Guinea pig so that you can put some new wonder drug on the market to make yourself and the sickos you work for money. [I]Grabs collar[/I] Now, if you wouldn't mind I'm trying to enjoy my privacy. [I]Birch had been taken aback by Van and stood up walking away. Van smiled and went back to thinking about his comrades, in 12 short hours he'd see them again.[/I][/size]