James

[size=1]I own both a GBA and a PS2. If you have less money, get a GBA. There are heaps of games available and the price of software is slightly less than the price of PS2 games. In addition, you get the best first party titles in the world. And of course, it's portable. :) But if you want a home, TV-based system, then I'd go for either GameCube or PlayStation 2. All depends on your budget and your taste in games, really.[/size]

[B]Member Name[/B]: James [B]Original Name[/B]: James_B [B]Member Since[/B]: Was here during V1, but joined at the beginning of V2.0, sometime in late 2000. [B]Current Status[/B]: Administrator [B]Favorite Forum(s)[/B]: General Discussion, Games & Stories, Nintendo, Sony and Staff Discussion. [B]Favorite RPG[/B]: [i]Meteo City V2, Final Fantasy: Online Another World.[/i] [B]Favourite Threads[/B]: Don't have a fav. thread. [B]Favorite Smiley[/B]: :D :rolleyes: :drunk: [B]Most Memorable Moment[/B]: Launching V2.0 and V3.0, the whole SSJGoten fiasco, the time when Adam was sick from too many chocolate milkshakes. [B]Quotable Quote[/B]: [I]"People don't play consoles, they play games" - Shigeru Miyamoto, World's Best Game Designer.[/i] [B]Words of Wisdom[/B]: [i]"The fascination I have with my science is that planetary changes, crustal changes, atmospheric changes, oceanic changes, and biological changes all operated in tandem. All these changes are evolution. All these changes are interdependant. Evolution of life is closely linked to planetary, crustal, atmospheric and hydrospheric evolution. This is the story of planet Earth. This story is far more visionary, elegant, awesome and excitng than any facile unsubstantiated dogmatic myth. If this story of our world is wrong, I would feel so sad for God"[/i] by Ian Plimer, Professor of Geology at the University of Melbourne. Extracted from his book, Telling Lies for God. [B]Wished to be remembered as[/B]: A fair and honest person who genuinely tries to do a good job and to see the best in people. [B]Epitaph[/B]: "If the gravestone's a rockin', don't come a knockin'" [B]I will[/B]: ...my beloved OtakuBoards.com to Sephiroth (when I die, that is, lol). ...my Paul van Dyk CD collection to Transtic Nerve (even though he has more than me! Bah) ...my plush Pikachu/Mario/Sonic to Rico, for being such a good mod in our gaming area. ...my favourite non-fiction book, Telling Lies for God to Cera, to keep her entertained on her Sunday outings to Church.

[i]Karu, Chole, Ken and Treble began to walk across the huge field between Physar and Solhara. The field was at least 1600 miles from one end to another -- it would take them a long time to reach Solhara and only Karu was riding on a Chocobo. [/i] Karu: Hmm, we need to find a faster way to get to Solhara. Stranger: A faster way, eh? Ken: Hey...who was that?! Chole: It sounded like it came from other there... [i]Chole pointed to a large thicket of grass to the right of them. The grass rustled and out stepped a very small, old man with a long, white beard.[/i] Old Man: I've been living in this field for many years...but I tend to buy my potions material from the Kingdom of Physar...which is many miles to the west of here. Chole: So...if that's the case, how do you get from town to town? I mean...no offence but, you're kind of...well...old. :blush: Old Man (laughs): Ohh yes, well...you see, I have a special trick which gets me there in no time. Treble: A trick? What trick? [i]The old man motioned for them to wait -- and he headed back to the thicket of grass behind him. A few moments later, he re-emerged with a large bag, which had various rugs hanging out of it.[/i] Old Man: These rugs are the finest in all of Terraforma...I'm a rug salesman. That's what I do. Chole: But we're not looking for rugs, we need to find a way to get to Solhara quickly! Old Man: Don't speak too soon. :) [i]The old man took out one of the rugs and laid it on the ground. He then sat on it and closed his eyes for a moment.[/i] Ken: [i]What a weirdo...[/i] [i]The old man opened his eyes and stroked the rug softly with his fingers. All of a sudden, it began to lift up off the ground and float in mid air.[/i] Ken: Wow! Chole: Whoa...I had no idea... Karu: I'd buy one from you but...I don't know if I have enough money... Old Man: Oh no worry, these rugs are cheap. You only need one for the four of you anyway...you'll fit quite comfortable on one of my economy rugs. Chole: Okay, how much do they cost? Old Man: Well, my most basic rug will set you back around 1000 Gil. Karu: Okay...I'll put in 500 Gil. Chole: That's quite a lot of cash for a little guy...here's the other 500. [i]Chole handed the old man the full 1000 Gil. The old man reached into his bag and pulled out a large, rather tattered looking rug.[/i] Old Man: There. Ken: Uh, this doesn't look like it will get us very far... Treble: Hm, yeah it does look a bit old... Old Man: Hmph! I'm a professional...I don't sell poor quality items! Chole: Of course you don't...it's okay. This will be fine. Thank you. [i]The old man waved and hopped back behind the grass where he had come from. Chole, Ken, Treble and Karu stepped onto the rug and sat down. Chole suddenly realized that he had no idea what the old man had done to make the rug hover.[/i] Chole: Umm...guys? I seem to have forgotten what that man did... Ken: Oh great. Now we're stuck in this field! Karu: Chole...I think he stroked the rug with his fingers... Chole: Ohh, right, right. [i]Chole put his hand on the rug and stroked it slowly. Just as he did this, it began to levitate. The others held on tightly to the tattered edges. Chole had absolutely no idea how to make the rug move...so he simply blurted out "Forward!". As he said this, the rug jolted forward and began to fly toward Solhara. The others had to hold on tightly to avoid slipping. Karu looked down over the field as they moved forward...he saw monsters everywhere; lucky they hadn't been forced to walk. As they flew, they were engulfed in clouds of white gulls...but finally, after an hour or so, they could see the giant towers of Solhara in the distance...[/i]

[size=1]Sorry to say this, but those of you who watch Captain Planet SUCK! Ahem, sorry about that. I just don't like hippies. In addition, I'd like to mention that I've severely disciplined Adam -- you may not seem him around for a while, I'm sure he's still in a great deal of pain. :p [/size]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by BabyGirl [/i] [B][color=deeppink]Perhaps this is a dumb question, but those bottle bugs in Ocarina of Time...do they [i]do[/i] anything? I have one captured...what should I do with it?[/color] [/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]I have a feeling that you can trade 'em somewhere...for something. But I'm not sure. I know that you can use fish that you catch from that Zora Cave place...(I forget the name), but as for the bugs...I'm not sure. Gah, that was no help at all was it? lol [/size]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by DeathKnight [/i] [B][color=crimson]Ken: Welcome Aboard Karu! Now... on to Physar! TO MY WEAPON! [/color] [/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]Uhh, do'nt you mean "on to Solhara?" lol That's where Karu is going ;) he was just at Physar, when he discovered that his parents were kidnapped.[/size]

Karu: Sure, but aren't you guys on some other quest or something? Cloud: No...we were on our way to Physar, when we stumbled upon you. Karu: Well, I don't really need any help. Cloud: But you're a boy...and I know something's wrong. What is it? Karu: My parents are both missing...someone's kidnapped them... Cloud: We can help you! Please, won't you let us help? [i]Karu thinks for a moment. Maybe it'd be good to have these adults on his side, especially since his run in with the Kalhir.[/i] Karu: Okay...I guess so.

[size=1]Just a note to y'all....Karu never ran away, he was headed to Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch near Physar. ( I just haven't been able to post in the last two days). Second, the Metreon Caves are several thousand miles north of Physar, they are NOT close by (refer to my map on Page 5). I hope that clears things up. With any luck, we can fix the story lol.[/size] [i]Karu walked inside the gates of the ranch. He could see Cid out the front of the farmhouse scratching his head and looking puzzled.[/i] Karu: Hey, Cid...what's the matter? Cid: Well uhh...I'm sure that yesterday, there were four blue chocobos in this here left paddock...but today there are only three. And I seem to be missing another two yellow chocobos as well... Karu: Oh, that's terrible :( Cid: Yeah, I guess they ran away...oh well. Hopefully I can find them. Did you want something? Karu: Actually, I wanted to hire a chocobo -- just a yellow one...I can't afford better. Cid: Ahh yes. Well, I'm missing three yellow ones. So you'll have to take that one over there *points* [i]Cid had pointed to a green chocobo which was sitting in the corner, looking sleepy.[/i] Karu: Oh, a green one...wow. Thanks! Cid: Don't mention it! Here's the leash, all you need to do is feed him some chocobo cookies once each hour...that should keep him happy.[i] Cid handed a bag of Billy Bob's Finest Chocobo Cookies to Karu, along with the green chocobo's leash. Karu walked over the fastened the leash to the green chocob's harness and then climbed up on his back. Karu waved to Cid as he exited Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch, moving toward the hills which divided Physar from Solhara.[/i]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Defcon5 [/i] [B] I could go into a whole spchel(sp) about this but for everyone's sake I won't but I will say Then they really shoulden't be married. YOu should marry someone that you will love for etrnity(sp). [/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]When you're a kid, you are always wearing rose coloured glasses. Most people who marry aren't in love -- they're in love when they first marry, but they fall out of love after. That's why divorce is so high. But you'll learn that when you're older. :)[/size]

[i]Karu began to walk back to Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch. He thought he'd hire the cheapest chocobo there and be on his way to Solhara. He honestly had no idea where to go to find his parents, but Solhara was where many of Terraforma's biggest gangs were located -- it seemed logical to him to try Solhara. As he walked along the huge field outside the Kingdom of Physar, he saw something moving in the long grass to his right. It was a field monster -- but he'd never fought a field monster before in his life. What would he do? But it was too late to think, the field monster jumped out infront of him and went into battle stance. The monster didn't move. It was waiting for Karu to take his turn -- Karu had seen the monster in advance and thus, he was able to strike first (he had no idea why fighting was like this, but there were certain things about Terraforma...certain unwritten rules which warriors followed, including monsters). Karu thought for a moment. He opened his backpack and took out the little pouch of Chocobo Dust. He reached inside the pouch and took a small amount of dust. Then he threw it at the field monster.[/i] Karu: [size=1]+[/size]+confuse+[size=1]+[/size] [i]Karu had cast his first "spell" -- the Chocobo Dust had confused the field monster, which was running around in circles chasing its tail.[/i] Karu: Wow...it really works... [i]For a moment, nothing happened. Karu couldn't move -- he was locked into position like on a chess board. And then it seemed that it was his turn again -- the monster had been too confused to attack him. Karu then took out the spatula from his backpack and ran toward the monster, hitting it over the head with the end of it.[/i] Karu: [size=1]+[/size]+Spatula Attack+[size=1]+[/size] [i]A small, faint number appeared over the creature's head...it read:[/i] [b][size=4]100 Damage[/size][/b][i] And with that, the monster gave a mighty roar and fell back into the grass. Karu walked over to where the creature had been standing and to his surprise, it was no longer there. In its place, was a small pouch of gil and a small, wooden stick with a tiny skull attached to one end. Karu picked up the items and put them in his backpack. He had heard that only field monsters fought in a turn-based style. It had something to do with the way the three Goddesses had created the world. They gave the primary races of creatures on the earth the power to have free will. But monsters weren't the same -- they were cursed, they had to fight passers by at any cost and be bound by the rules of the Gods. It was a very strange experience for Karu, but nonetheless, he continued on. He could see Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch just over the nearby hill.[/i]

[size=1]I've created a quick map of Terraforma. It includes the main areas in the world, but others may add areas/area names if they wish.[/size] [IMG]http://www.otakuboards.com/attachment.php?s=&postid=150588[/IMG] [b]Key[/b] 1 - Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch (Physar Branch) 2 - Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch (Metreon Branch) 3 - Penninsula of Eden 4 - Castle of the Three Goddesses 5 - Ephra Forest 6 - Squeaky Beach 7 - Chocobo Island 8 - Oberon Mountain ??? - North Land Mass/Unknown Territory [size=1]I hope that helps when it comes to the story. ;)[/size]

[i]Karu walked over the huge drawbridge which led directly into the heart of the Kingdom of Physar. The Town Square was just beyond and Karu's house was two blocks north of it. When Karu arrived home, he knocked on the old wooden door. But there was no answer from inside. He knocked again and put his ear to the door, straining to hear for any noise. But once again, he heard nothing. He walked around to the side of the house and climbed in his bedroom window. His room was a mess; clothing had been thrown everywhere and many of his personal belongings were sitting all over the floor. Karu opened his door and walked out into the main corridor. The kitchen was also a mess. He then walked into his parents bedroom and saw the same thing. Lying on his mother and father's bed, was a small silver pendant. The pendant had been his mother's...he'd never seen her without it. It was given to her by his father when they were married some ten years earlier. And there it lay...the silver lock which held it together was snapped. Karu picked it up and put it in his pocket. Something had happened here...someone had been here...but for what? Karu had absolutely no idea why anyone would want to trouble his parents. They were kind, decent, hardworking folk. Karu knew he couldn't stay here. The people who did this might return...and he didn't want to be there when they came back. He ran into his room and scooped up some clothing and other odd items, which he stuffed into his backpack. He then exited from the front door, which he made sure to lock. [/i] Karu: [i]Where am I going to go? I have nobody...I don't know what to do...[/i] [i]Karu thought about his dilemma for a moment, and decided that he'd go back to Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch and hire himself a chocobo. He had taken his leather pouch which was filled with gil from his room and put it in his pocket. He had more than enough money to pay for a chocobo. Karu did a final check of his backpack, to make sure he had everything. And off he went, toward the gates of the Kingdom, not knowing where he was going to end up.[/i]

[i]Garden Grove was a beautiful place. It was several miles long and contained several hundred different pathways. Garden Grove, as the name suggests, is a huge garden built exactly halfway between the Kingdom of Physar and Solhara City. It was constructed when both races officially made peace with one another, some 160 years ago. Prior to that, there had been much suspicion and four long, drawn-out wars between the Windhytes and the Metropods. The garden had more than 200 gigantic gazebos and some 1400 fountains. It was huge -- and was a major tourist destination. The pathways of the garden were filled with Windhytes and Metropods who were going on vacation. As Karu and his chocobo neared the end of Garden Grove, he saw a large building in the distance, with various fences around it. As he came closer, he could clearly make out the huge sign on the side of a large farmhouse. It read:[/i] [b]Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch: Home of the Famous Blue Water Chocobo[/b] [i]Underneath the large sign he saw another sign which read:[/i] [b]CHOCOBO PARKING LOT: 1 HOUR, 2 HOUR & 3 HOUR FEEDING AREAS[/B] [I]Eventually, Karu & his chocobo were standing out the front of the large ranch. To the right, they saw a large paddock full of yellow chocobos. To the left, there was a paddock of green chocobos. And in the middle, was a large farmhouse with stables inside. Karu hopped off his chocobo and took its leash. He led it to the parking area and fastened the leash against a post in the 1 Hour Chocobo Parking Bay. He then walked down the main path into the farmhouse. On the other side of the farmhouse, he saw an old man with white hair. The man was feeding a large, black chocobo, who didn't seem to be too happy at all. Karu walked over to the man and saw that he had the name "Cid" written on his shirt.[/i] Karu: Excuse me...Cid? Cid: Oh, hello there young man. What can I do for you? Karu: I'm here on behalf of Bob from Solhara City. I returned your chocobo for you -- he's in the 1 Hour Chocobo Parking Bay right now. Cid: Ahh yes...Choco. I leant him to Bob a month ago, for his long trip to Solhara and beyond. Did he take good care of Choco for me? Karu: Erm...well, they didn't exactly see eye-to-eye. Cid (laughed): Yes...Choco is a very selective chocobo. He won't trust just anyone. [i]Karu looked around the farmhouse. It was filled with stables, which featured different types of chocobo.[/i] Karu: So...do you run this place on your own? Cid: Not on my own, I run it with my wife, Lynda. She's in the Kingdom of Physar right now, picking up some groceries for us. Karu: Oh. I read on the sign out the front that you have Water Chocobos here... Cid: Indeed we do. At the moment, we only have babies though. Five babies, to be exact. They haven't grown yet. Karu: I noticed that the sign says "Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch"...but if you run it, who's Bon Bon? Cid: Well, I run it...but Bon Bon owns it. He owns about five different ranches all over Terraforma. He's a very shrewd businessman. Karu: Interesting. Cid: So...is there anything you want, now that you're here? Karu: Hmm, well...I'm afraid I can't afford anything. I don't have any money. Cid (scratches head): Well...since you were kind enough to return my precious Choco to me, I shall give you a free gift. You may choose anything you like. Karu: Wow, really?! Cool...I'll take a look around then. Cid: Take your time. [i]Karu walked around to the other side of the farmhouse. On the wall were all kinds of strange things: Chocobo Saddles, Chocobo Blinkers, Chocobo Night Vision Goggles, Chocobo's Shoes (for the pampered pet), a Chocobo Feather Grooming Kit (including brush and instruction manual) and even an Official Bon Bon's Chocobo Beak Warmer. All of these items looked interesting...but Karu didn't own a chocobo. So they were of no use to him. He looked further down and saw an interesting object. It was a little pouch with the words "Chocobo Dust" on them. He took the pouch and walked back to Cid.[/i] Karu: I think I'll take this, please. Cid: Ahh yes, good choice. Karu: I don't even know what it is... Cid: Well, Chocobo Dust is a very special mixture. All you have to do is hold the pouch open and let a chocobo smell it. The scent of the dust makes the chocobo trust whoever is holding the pouch. It's a very rare mixture -- and this is my last pouch of it. Karu: Wow...it sounds expensive. Perhaps I should choose something cheaper... Cid: No, no. This is fine...you deserve it. You can take it if you want. Karu: Really? Thanks! Cid: No problem. Enjoy your trip home! Karu: Bye, Cid! [i]Karu put the pouch in his pocket and walked out of the ranch. He could see the enormous gates of the Kingdom just over the horizon -- it'd take him about an hour or so to walk there...but it shouldn't be too much trouble. Karu said goodbye to Choco (who nuzzled him and licked his face) and was on his way home.[/i]

[i]Karu awoke and looked out the window next to his bed. He pressed his thumb to the pad on the wall and the windows dissappeared completely -- they were nothing but a solid hologram. He leaned up against the window and looked out over the city. The 400th Annual Gun Festival was now on its last day, and in the distance, beyond the enormous entrance gates of Solhara City, Karu could see caravans of Falyore moving past the various security checkpoints as they tried to enter the city -- not wanting to miss out on shiny new weapons, no doubt. He looked up into the blue sky and saw flocks of white gulls moving over the city. It was such a beautiful day. The sky was painted a brilliant blue, the glass bulidings of Solhara City were shimmering in the morning light and the streets below were filled with millions of tourists and travellers, finding ways to spend their cash as fast as possible. Karu rubbed his eyes and sat on his bed, looking around the room. Everything was so modern, from the huge flat screen LCD display on the wall, to the genetically modified "live forever" flowers in the vase by his bed. The room was empty though -- it looked like Makuh and his mother had decided to leave for home early, before the midday rush. Karu hopped off his bed and put his clothes on. He decided it best to return home before too long -- his parents would be worried. He took some of the hotel's complimentary cookies 'n' sweets and put them into his backpack; they might come in handy on the long trip home, he thought. He opened the door to his room and walked down the hotel's corridor. Karu was now standing infront of the hotel, on busy Main Street. Two and a half hours passed and Karu arrived back in the alleyway where he had first emerged into the city yesterday morning. But to his surprise, there was nothing there. The cave entrance had been completely sealed over.[/i] Karu: Oh no...I can't get home now... [i]Karu sat down on the sidewalk outside the alley and wondered what his next step would be. Just as he thought there was no hope, he looked up and saw a fairly scruffy looking man holding a leash. Attached to the other end of the leash was a huge, golden bird. The bird didn't look very happy with the man -- it kept tugging violently on the leash, to which the man would reply by swearing at the bird and attempting to kick it. Karu's ears pricked up -- he had an idea. He walked over to the scruffy man and tugged on his shirt.[/i] Scruffy Man: What is it? What do ya want? Karu: Uhh, sir...you seem to be having some trouble with that bird there. Scruffy Man: Hell yeah I am! Stupid darn thing...no brains in its head. I'm supposed to be taking it back to the Bon Bon Chocobo Ranch just outside the Kingdom of Physar. But the stupid bird won't obey me! Karu: There's a Chocobo farm outside the Kingdom? How far from the Kingdom is it? Scruffy Man: Well err...I guess it's about a mile from the Kingdom. Karu: Oh I see. Well, if you like...I could take the bird for you. Scruffy Man (laughed and wiped his nose on his sleeve): You?! But you're just a boy...and a Quart at that. You're far too weak to control such a stupid, large beast. Chocobos have to trust their owner...if they don't trust or know you, they won't cooperate. And frankly, I don't have time to earn this animal's trust. Karu: Please sir...I need to get home anyway. I can take him with me. [i]The scruffy man eyed Karu suspiciously and said nothing for a few moments. He then handed the end of the leather leash to Karu.[/i] Scruffy Man: Fine. I don't care. It's a stupid bird, anyway. Just take it to the Bon Bon Chocobo Ranch and ask for Cid. He is the man I'm supposed to be taking this Chocobo to. He'll give you all the info on chocobos that you'll ever need. He's a nice fella. Tell him Bob sent you. Karu: Okay...Cid, right. Will do. Thanks again, Bob. Bob: No worries. Anyway, I'm off to visit the local Molly's Gourmet Fish Cavern. I can't wait! [i]And with that, Bob rubbed his tummy and walked off in the other direction. Gourmet Fish Cavern? Euh, Karu thought that sounded disgusting! Karu looked up at the chocobo. It was so tall compared to him, that it towered over him. It had quite an angry look on its face -- it almost looked like it was scowling at him (which was very weird considering that it had a beak rather than a mouth). "Hmmm...I wonder", thought Karu. He reached into his backpack and took out a cookie which he had taken from the hotel. He crumbled it up and put it in his palm, which he then held out infront of the chocobo. The chocobo cocked its head and eyed Karu, as if wondering what kind of trick he was playing. It lowered its great head and sniffed at the crumbled up cookie...and then started eating from Karu's hand. Karu smiled and let go of the leash -- the chocobo didn't go anywhere. He used his other hand to stroke the chocobo's lush, golden feathers. The chocobo cooed softly as it ate, the feathers on its red cheeks fluffed up.[/i] Karu: Good boy...see? I'm not gonna hurt you... Chocobo: Kweh! [i]The chocobo had finished the cookie. It blinked at Karu, but didn't move. All of a sudden, the chocobo crouched down on the ground. Karu instantly knew what to do -- he carefully climbed up onto its back and took the reigns in his hands. The chocobo shook the crums from its beak. Karu leant forward and stroked the feathers on the chocobo's neck. It's eyes closed as it cooed softly. [/i] Karu: Uhh...chocobo...go forward! [i]The chocobo, as if understanding what Karu had said, began to walk foward. Karu rode the chocobo down Main Street and out the main gate of Solhara City. He took out a map from his backpack -- he decided to move west and go through Garden Grove. Bon Bon's Chocobo Ranch was only three miles west of Garden Grove. Karu and his new friend slowly moved off over the horizon, Karu stopping every now and then to feed the chocobo a cookie...[/i]

[i]Karu and Makuh walked hand-in-hand down the busy main street of Solhara. It was filled with colorful neon lights, huge stalls and loud music. There were people everywhere. The 400th Annual Gun Festival was now in its second day, and Karu couldn't believe what he saw. There was everything on display, from Twin-Barrel Plasma Launchers to Hovering Proximity Mines -- it was a haven for bounty hunters and warriors from all over Terraforma. It was also an unusual time, in the sense that the streets were filled with just as many Falyores as Metropods. The Falyore were warriors and thus, this festival was important to many of them, despite Solhara being a good 2000 miles from the Metreon Caves in the north of Terraforma. However, there weren't many Windhytes around at all -- this didn't at all surprise Karu, as Windhytes were famous for being peace-loving creatures. There also weren't any Quart to be seen -- they were all presumably too timid to enter such a big, bright city. Karu, however, had grown up with Windhytes. He was used to seeing different species and he was a street smart kid. Makuh, on the other hand, had a much different expression to Karu. Karu was holding his hand and leading him around the busy main street of Solhara, but Makuh kept stopping and staring at the bright lights and strange weapons. His mouth was hanging open, his eyes wide with wonderment. The two walked for more than two hours -- Solhara's Main Street was enormous, it was several miles long. It would take them more than a day to walk from one side to the other. Karu decided it best to stay at an inn somewhere for the night -- only problem was, he was a young kid. And who'd take in a kid in the middle of the night? That was the kind of place Solhara was. Karu and Makuh sat on a bench on the sidewalk and watched the many hundreds of Metropods and Falyore pass by. The Falyore looked very intimidating to Karu; they were huge creatures who often looked rough and nasty. And just about every single one of them had at least one huge weapon equipped. Almost as soon as they had sat down, Makuh had fallen asleep. He was sucking his thumb and leaning against Karu. Karu looked around helplessly -- he didn't know what to do. And for the first time in his short life, he was very worried. What if they didn't find a place to stay? What would become of them? These questions lingered in the back of his mind. And just as he felt like nobody would ever help him, he saw a Windhyte woman in the crowd waving at him and calling out at the top of her lungs.[/i] Woman: Hey!! Over here!![i] Karu squinted and saw who it was immediately -- it was Makuh's mother. She had a large backpack with what appeared to be the butt of a shotgun sticking out the back. Obviously, she had decided to buy weapons on her own, in order to track down her son's kidnapper. The heavy weapons on her back looked very out of place against the woman's creamy white skin and large, fluffy white wings. The woman crossed the street (something which took her quite some time -- she gave plenty of room for the various Falyore men who got in her way) and walked over to the two boys.[/i] Woman: Oh thank god! I'm so happy to see you both! Karu: Please ma'am...we have nowhere to go. Can you help us? Woman: Oh of course...yes, I'm staying in a hotel down the street. Come with me and you can share my room. Karu: Oh, thank you very much. Woman: Don't mention it. And thank you for finding my son...However did you do it? ...No, don't talk about it for now, you're too tired and you've had a long day. Let me take you both to my hotel for a good night's sleep. [i]The woman carefully lifted Makuh into her arms and gestured for Karu to follow. They both walked down the crowded street -- Karu was telling the woman about his encounter with the Kalhir and how he had only just managed to save her son's life. The woman just nodded and gazed upon Karu kindly as they continued walking towards the hotel.[/i]

[i]Treble held his hand out to Karu and lifted the two boys out of the dumpster.[/i] Treble: Uhh, careful there boys...the sidewalk is slippery. [i]If that had been a joke, Karu and his companion weren't laughing. Treble leant down over the two boys and turned his attention to the young four year old Windhyte boy.[/i] Treble: Are you okay, son? Where's your parents? [i]Karu butted in...[/i] Karu: His parents are in the Kingdom of Physar. His house isn't very far from mine.... [i]Treble eyed Karu -- he only looked to be about ten years old, yet he seemed very bright.[/i] Treble: Ahh I see. Were you out playing in that cave over there when the Kalhir came? Karu: No. I was looking for this boy...his mother wanted him back. The Kalhir kidnapped him. Treble: Ahh I see. How old are you, son? Karu: I'm 12. Treble: Oh, well...I guess you'll be able to take this little fella home? Or do you want some help? Karu: I can do it...I can take him home. Little Boy: Home! I want mummy! *sniff* Treble: Okay...well I'll let you two go. I have business in Solhara to attend to. See you later! [i]Treble walked down the alleyway and into the main street of Solhara, leaving the two boys alone by the cave entrance. Karu turned to the little boy.[/i] Karu: Hey...what's your name? Little Boy: Name? Umm...*puts finger in mouth*...my name's Makuh! Karu: Makuh huh? Yeah...a traditional Windhyte name. Cool. Makuh: What's traditional meen? Karu: Umm, nothing...don't worry. Lemme take you home! Makuh: Yea! Home! *jumps up and down on the spot* [i]Karu took Makuh's hand and led him down the alleyway toward the main street of Solhara -- he didn't want to go back into that cave, what if there was another Kalhir in there?[/i]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Treble [/i] [B] Lol you're right,I was laughing my butt off after reading James's post.Anyways what should we do change the story around a little bit like [i]Cloud came flying in and shotted a arrow at the Kalhir as it got hurt,Treble loaded his Missle Launcher and blasted the Kalhir[/i] or something else? [/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]Okay, okay! I'll go and fix it...man..it's only a small bit lol. I tried to fix it before, but my Internet stufed up.I'll go fix it now.[/size]

[i]Karu contined to follow the creek in the valley. As he followed it, he made sure to hold his lantern up high -- there were thick trees overhead which were blocking out the weak morning sunlight. Eventually, Karu came across a large cave near the bank of the creek. The cave was hidden among foliage, and Karu had to take out his pocket knife to cut through the various vines and tree roots. The interior of the cave was pitch black and the air felt moist on Karu's skin. His long Quart ears twitched nervously, straining to hear any sound which might indicate danger. As Karu walked deeper into the depths of the cave, he saw large catacombs everywhere, some of which had pieces of rotting flesh impaled on them -- this was definitely the Kalhir's hideout. Karu had walked for at least an hour inside the cave and had seen nothing at all. He sat down on a flat rock by the side of the wall and rubbed the dust out of his hair.[/i] Karu: What am I going to do? *sigh* I'll never find the Kalhir. [i]But just as he mumbled this to himself, he heard a cracking noise coming from his right. He spun around and held up his lantern, which illuminated the nearby walls in a soft, yellow light. Karu noticed that the path, as it continued to move deeper into the cave, began to slant upwards slightly. Karu decided to continue following the path, which became more and more narrow as he walked. At the end of the path, Karu saw a very small hole, with a beam of pure white light shining through it. This seemed to be a dead end.[/i] Karu: Oh...there's nothing here. Now I'll have to walk for [i]another[/i] hour back the other way...damn...[i] He leaned against the wall, and just as he did so, the entire wall began to crumble and fall away. Karu quickly stood up and regained his balance. He was amazed at what he saw; beyond the new opening, he could see a beautiful city full of tall, glass structures. Nearly everyone in the city was wearing all-white clothes...but they weren't Windhytes, they had no wings. Karu had heard of these creatures before; they were Metropods. He had stumbled upon a secret route from Solhara City to the Kingdom of Physar. No wonder the Kalhir had managed to kidnap a boy in the Kingdom of Physar and escape without a trace -- he'd gone into Solhara for cover! Karu pushed past the small entrance and stepped out onto the alleyway above. But just as he did this, he saw a giant black creature running toward him -- it had a small boy under its arm. It was the Kalhir! And it was MUCH bigger than Karu had expected. Despite its tiny feet, it had long, spider like legs and a fairly small body. Its long legs had feet with sharp claws on the end, and its arms, which were just as long, had hands with very long, dirty nails. The creature's head looked like a strange mix betweeen a crocodile and a wolf -- a hairy crocodile. It was very strange. But nevertheless, it looked scary. Karu hid behind a dumpster and waited. The huge creature walked past him and them stopped, sniffed at the air for a moment and spun around to face him. The boy under its arm was bawling and crying out for help between yelps. The Kalhir's nostrils flared and it's huge fangs glistened in the morning light. It slowly began to creep toward him, with one of its arms out...trying to reach for him. Karu was terrified. He couldn't move -- he couldn't do anything. He just sat there and stared at the Kalhir coming towards him... Just as the Kalhir came close, it suddenly rheeled back in agony -- a large rocked had exploded to its right, causing it to howl in pain. Karu heard footsteps and peered around from the back of the dumpster -- he saw a group of Windhytes and Metropods coming towards him. One of them had a large Rocket Launcher strapped on his back, one was on rollerskates and one was flying above them. The others were running close behind. The man with the Rocket Launcher took out another small rocket and fired it at the Kalhir. This time, it struck the Kalhir's leg and the huge beast howled in pain -- and dropped the boy. The little boy was still crying and was far too scared to move. Karu summoned his courage and ran towards the little boy. He grabbed the boy by the hand. [/i] Karu (yells): Come on! Get in this dumpster with me! Quick![i] The boy wiped his tears away on his shirt and nodded. He ran alongside Karu and they both jumped into the dumpster. The Kalhir was enraged by this and it lunged at the dumpster, causing it to smash against the wall of a nearby building. Karu and the little boy held each other tightly and closed their eyes, hoping the danger would go away. The man with the bow stood next to the dumpster and Karu could hear him yelling to his companions "Stay here and protect these kids for me!". The huge Kalhir glared at Treble and began to advance on him. Treble held up his Rocket Launcher and fired another rocket at the Kalhir -- and this time, it hit its mark. The huge rocket flew through the air and buried itself deeply inside the Kalhir's chest. The huge Kalhir cried out in pain and took one last lunge at Treble, barely missing him. The rocket had a row of small, red lights on its rear -- it was a timed rocket. The lights slowly faded out and just as the last light dissappeared, the rocket exploded, causing pieces of the Kalhir to spray out all over the sidewalk. Luckily, Treble and the others had stood behind the dumpster to shield themselves. Treble peered inside the dumpster and held out his hand. [/i]Treble: It's okay now...you're safe.

[i]Karu woke early, while it was still dark. He crept out of bed and put on his cloak -- it was very thick, perfect for Kalhir hunting on a cold morning. He carefully crept out of his room and down the hallway, making sure not to wake his parents on the way past. When he reached the kitchen, he carefully opened one of the drawers and pulled out a large, metal spatula. It wasn't a sword, but it'd have to do for now. Karu sat the spatula in his pocket; it stuck out awkwardly. He then opened another drawer and pulled out a small, kerosine lantern. He lit the lantern and held it out infront of him. Now he was ready. He closed the front door behind him and crept over the small bridge infront of his house. South Field, the large, uninhabited space south of the main Kingdom was only a short distance from Karu's house. He looked around to make sure that nobody was watching, and headed for the clump of trees at the edge of his backyard. As he pushed his way past the branches, he could feel the scratching at his face and at times, he nearly dropped his lantern due to the thick leaves. Eventually, after what seemed like an eternity, the branches became thinner and Karu stepped out onto a large rock, which overlooked the Great Valley -- he was only slightly north of where he'd met the mysterious woman the night before. Karu carefully climbed down over the rocks to the creek at the bottom of the valley. He lifted his lantern in the early morning darkness and saw the Kalhir's footprints; they seemed to be going further south. Karu summoned his courage and began to follow the footprints into the gloomy darkness of the valley beyond.[/i]

[i]Karu lay back in the long grass. He could feel it tickling his long, pointed ears as it swayed in the soft breeze. He was chewing on a stalk of grass and staring lazily into the sky. The sky was so blue -- with white, fluffy clouds lining the horizon. He saw a flock of white gulls flying overhead in perfect formation. They would change direction every couple of minutes, but always retain the same triangular formation. The grass tasted sweet in Karu's mouth. He was so happy, he didn't have a single care in the world. Despite being different from his Windhyte foster parents (and for that matter, all his Windhyte friends), Karu felt happy with his life. But despite this, there was still something missing -- a small feeling in the back of his mind. A feeling that tugged on his conscience every now and then...not so much a bad feeling, just a different feeling. Karu never thought much about this feeling. He was only ten years old -- he didn't consider anything beyond the Kingdom of Physar. He had never ventured beyond its enormous stone walls. Even now, he was sitting in the field behind his house and in the distance, he could see the large stone walls running for miles all around. He didn't want to know what was out there. He had heard stories of strange demons and monsters who live in caves -- he was scared of moving too far from home. And yet, sometimes he felt that he didn't quite belong in his own home. He felt alien. Karu didn't know how long he'd been there in that field. But it was starting to get dark -- the clouds were bearing down on the horizon and the sky was moving from light blue to dark, navy blue. Karu stood up and dusted himself off. He was ready to head inside to get to sleep, when he felt a hand grab his shoulder. He spun around and lifted his arm up, ready to strike -- but nobody was there. It was dead silent, except for the distant croaking of frogs by the creek in the valley just south of his house. Just as Karu began to walk toward his house, he heard a sound in the distance, coming from the creek. It sounded like crying... [/i] Karu (thinks): I wonder what that sound is... [i] Karu decided to go and explore the strange noise. He walked all the way down to the end of the field and climbed down several metres of rocks -- he was a good climber, despite his size. Finally, he reached the bottom of the valley. On the other side of the creek, he could see a young Windhyte woman sitting on a log, with her face in her hands. He walked toward the edge of the creek and pushed a log into the water. Carefully (and somewhat awkwardly), Karu managed to get from one bank to the other. He approached the woman and sat next to her.[/i] Karu: Excuse me...ma'am? [i]The woman stopped crying and looked up at him, her large eyes filled with tears.[/i] Woman: W-what do you want? Karu: I heard you crying...I wanted to know what's wrong. Woman: It's my son...he's gone. Karu: Gone? Woman: Taken from me. Kidnapped. I let him play here by the creek...I know I shouldn't have...but I did. And now he's gone... [i]The woman brushed her long, dark fringe back from her face and stared out over the creek.[/i] Woman: *sigh* My husband told me that it wasn't safe down here. But I thought he'd be okay...I've told him about the dangers of the valley. Karu: What dangers? Woman: You don't know? Your parents must not have told you yet... [i]The woman took out a handkerchief and wiped away the tears on her cheeks as she continued talking...[/i] Woman: There are so many dangers down here. We've been able to destroy the monsters in the main areas of the Kingdom...but the valley is still home to some of the nastiest monsters in Terraforma. My son could have been kidnapped by anything. Karu: Oh...why do you think he's been kidnapped? Woman: Well, just look at these... [i]The woman pointed to a small set of footprints on the ground, which lead towards the creek.[/i] Woman: These are the footprints of a Kalhir. Kalhirs love to kidnap children -- it's all they ever do. Karu: What do they do with the children once they've kidnapped them? Woman: Ohh, who knows. Maybe they eat them...maybe they force them to become slaves...nobody knows. But I only know one thing -- nobody's ever found their child once a Kalhir has done its kidnapping. [i]Karu eyed the woman for a moment and felt his heart sink. He felt so sorry for her loss. He wanted to do something -- but what? He decided that he would try to find her missing child. Surely he could track down the Kalhir.[/i] Karu: I'd like to help find your child... Woman: But you're only a child yourself! Karu: It's okay...I want to do something. Please let me help you! Woman: No...I can't ask you to do that. You should get home before you encounter a monster down here. I'll see you later...please tell me if you see my son anywhere. He's only four years old...his wings are still buds.[i] The woman buried her face in her hands again and began sobbing. Karu decided it best to leave her for now -- but that didn't stop him wanting to track down that Kalhir. He was tired now though and decided it best to begin the search tomorrow morning. Karu said goodbye to the mysterious woman and climbed over the log again, and crawled up the rocks to the field behind his house. As he lay in bed that night, he looked out his window at the stars. He muttered to himself as he started to fall asleep "I'll find her boy...it can't be that hard to track down a Kalhir..." And with that, he fell asleep.[/i] [IMG]http://www.dannick.com/tole/ao0102.jpg[/IMG] [size=1]Karu's House.[/size]

[size=1]Okay, this should be more than enough. I'll start the RPG soon -- look out for the topic.[/size]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Altron Gundam [/i] [B] -You see I'm not into the whole homosexuality thing, but if your looking for a gay partner I suggest you ask your dad...if he's not too busy raping your brother... [/B][/QUOTE] [size=1]That's enough. I don't want to see language like that again -- you're both on notice. This stuff can be talked about in AIM or whatever, but not here. Anymore arguing and I'll be doing some banning/demodding.[/size]

[size=1]I love Australia Day. I don't really go to the parades and stuff...but it's a great day to feel patriotic. :) I visited Melbourne recently (I only live 40 minutes outside Melbourne, but I don't actually go there too often) and when I walked out of Flinder's Street Station, I felt such a rush of pride. Melbourne is such a beautiful city... It's truly amazing to walk past the Parliament Building and see the beautiful old Victoria Museum...they're also building Federation Square now...which is coming along nicely. So yeah, I like Australia Day...I might go back into the city tomorrow to see what's happening there. :)[/size]

Character Name: Karu Species: Quart Weapon: Ancient Talisman Primary Abillity: Levitate -- Karu's primary ability, Levitate, allows him to use his magic powers to lift any object at all -- no matter how large. This ability requires a large amount of concentration from Karu though, and once he has performed levitation on a particularly large object, he needs to regain his strength for a few hours after. Secondary Ability: Sacred Heal -- Karu's secondary ability allows him to heal both himself and others, but it also acts as an anti-evil power, allowing him to reflect evil magic. Description: Karu was not born in the Great Tree of Ephra, like the rest of his family. He was adopted by a Windhyte family at birth, and has never even seen his home world. Karu has taken it upon himself to find his home world at any cost -- and track down his biological family.

[size=1]Okay, I think we have more than enough Windhytes now. If anyone else wants to join up, they'll have to join as somethin' else (it's going to be tough to keep track of).[/size]