July 31, 2012
Bridging the Gap
I'm pleased to inform you that Chapter 15 is up! I've actually had this Chapter written for over a month, but it turns out that something went wrong when I posted it, and it was saved as a draft. So, from that perspective, the past several chapters have had a gap. Sorry about that!
July 29, 2012
How Performing Service Enables One to Better Become a Disciple of Christ
A/N: Before the actual talk, there was a section entitled "[Introduction]." This ended up being me sliding up to the stand and saying... "Hi... My name's _______ and I'm the eldest of ________. My family's been in this ward forever, so You probably know me. If you don't... Hi. I'm ______." And now, the actual talk. This is the 10th Edition, the previous 9 being evolutions of the talk i originally posted on here.
The topic that I've been given, in my own words, is How Performing Service Enables One to Better Become a Disciple of Jesus Christ."
When addressing this topic, I decided to approach it using each question word. They are, "who, what, where, when, why, and how." I would like to start with "What."
WHAT is service, and WHAT is a disciple? Service is a personal act you commit intended to aid someone. It could be anybody. There are no limitations on who is eligible to receive service. To be a disciple means to be a follower of a person or ideal. To be disciples of Jesus Christ, we must follow his ideals and his example. He exemplified his teachings, so we need only look to his life to see what we must become to be called his disciples. Jesus blessed all he met during his journeys. He raised the dead, turned water to wine, and performed so many more acts of miraculous service than we can list. That's how we should act, even if we don't go around raising dead people and healing infirmities. We should strive to bless the people in our lives.
Next is "Why." WHY should we give service? Answer! We perform service because EVERYBODY wants to be happy. It also helps us to perfect ourselves. In that famous verse in Mosiah about service, it states that when we serve our fellow beings, we are only in the service of our God. We don't give service because it's necessary to the fate of creation. We do it because we are healed when we heal others. Because we have been given much, we too must give. We're told in Mosiah 2:21 that even if we served the Creator with our whole souls, we would still be unprofitable servants. Don't let that discourage you however, because we are. The reason we're ONLY in the service of our God is found in Moses, first chapter, thirty-ninth verse. We learn that it is our Heavenly Father's work and glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. When we perform meaningful service, we bring others and ourselves a little nearer to this eternal goal, which is God's plan for us. This self-perfection is also the reason that if your heart isn't in your service, you won't benefit from it. We also give service because the Master gave service, and we are striving to be disciples of Christ. In Luke 22:27, he stated that "I am among you as He that serveth." We give service because Christ did, and he taught in John 13:35 that, "By this ye shall know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." Giving service is an expression of love. We are also obligated to serve by our baptismal covenant. In the 18th chapter of Mosiah, Alma teaches that part of the baptismal covenant is to "bear one another's burdens."
The third question is "Who." WHO do we serve? WE serve GOD. Twenty-fourth chapter of the Book of Joshua. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!" WHO performs service? Answer? WE do! We can all perform service in our own ways! WHO benefits from service? EVERYBODY! WE help to fulfill GOD'S plan, found in Moses 1:39, for US when WE serve OTHERS. By helping OTHERS we help OURSELVES, which is what GOD wants for us. It's a wonderful system, where everyone is benefited.
The fourth and fifth questions are "Where" and "When." The answer? We can give service ANYTIME and ANYWHERE. Service is not just temporal, as I hope to show you, and the ways we can perform it are infinite. The Savior showed us that as long as we look for it, there is always an opportunity for service.
The sixth question is "How." HOW do we give service? I believe that there are four different, but always similar, ways to give service that help us become disciples of Christ.
The first way to serve others is temporally. That is usually the first form of service a person thinks of. It is a simple, effective, good way to give service. Many of the acts of service Christ performed were temporal. In the same way, we should perform temporal service for others. There are a multitude of stories about temporal service, ranging from a small child playing together with a lonely playmate, to entire wards gathering together to harvest fields and build houses. If you haven't experienced the blessing of temporal service, I encourage you to go out and serve. It could be raking a widow's yard, or making a meal for an ill family. Making a meal may be risky however, as the Relief Society is usually right on top of that! Speaking of which, the Relief Society, along with the Bishopric, forms a sort of parenthood in each ward. The Relief Society is the mommy, and the Bishopric is the daddy (of service)! They are always there to serve, and ensure that those in need receive aid. If you need help, or wish to give it, you need only speak to a member of the Bishopric or Relief Society presidency. Great amounts of time can be spent on any topic regarding service, but for the sake of time I will move on.
The second form of service is spiritual. Often, this form of service is linked with the temporal variety, as we currently live in a temporal world. Examples of this service include teaching a church class, or giving a priesthood blessing. To me, those who teach are giving one of the greatest acts of spiritual service. Teaching is a divine calling, appointed by God. Any member who magnifies their calling is also giving spiritual service. The single greatest act of spiritual service any person has performed for another is the atonement of Jesus Christ. The atonement is the single most momentous event in all of history. The Savior, in the ultimate act of sacrifice, and of selfless service, fulfilled the requirements of both mercy and justice, and gave us a way to return to our Farther in heaven. Another one of the greatest acts of spiritual service is to forgive and apologize for wrongdoing. In Deiter F. Uchtdorf's words, we should "stop it." Stop trying to make justifications for rationalizations for sins, and stop putting off the two-word phrase, "I'm sorry." Stop it, apologize, and fix it.
The third act of service you can perform is emotional. This form of service is heavily connected to the other forms. This is a varied topic, so, for the sake of everyone, I will speak about the most sacred way to give this service. This special act of service is not always thought of as service. I would like to convince you that it is. It's friendship. Being a true friend is, I will be so bold to say, the second greatest act of service, eclipsed only by the atonement. Even the atonement, if looked at from a different point of view, is a splendid act of familial friendship. Indeed, Jesus the Christ should be our most intimate of friends, along with our Heavenly Father. A true friend can make all the difference in a person's life, both to the friend and the friendee (if that's even a word). Friendship is TWO-way service. Being a friend is like going through life. People can give you examples and advice, but in the end it's up to each and every one of us to experience it for ourselves. I encourage you to make friends with your family. Odds are, you'll be sealed to them forever. They're your most important relations. Then, branch out to everybody else in your life. Be friends with all! To learn more about being a true friend, I suggest looking to the lives of our modern day prophets, as well as the scriptures, especially the gospels of Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John, which detail the life of the truest of friends, Jesus the Christ. I would add, on a personal note, Doctrine and Covenants, 18th chapter, which includes that scripture about the worth of souls, a personal favourite of mine. How great should be your joy... if because of your friendship with another, they develop those same bonds with others, and everyone's life is enriched, and this continues among the whole human race until everyone's united in love and friendship. I hope we will all strive to bring that day just a bit closer. Stepping back from that bit of idealistic hope, just be the best friend you can to everyone you meet and you'll do fine.
The fourth way you can serve is by forgiving. This is critical to your eternal progression. Repentance and forgiveness are vast subjects, so I will simply say this. You must forgive yourself, along with others. This is important for you, and for you to give to others. Isn't it coincidental how similar the words "serve" and "save" are? Many great people have taught that there are no coincidences. Service is important, for the giver and recipient. Don't take it from me, here are a few observations from those wiser than I.
Famed Scottish theologian George MacDonald observed, "It is by loving, and not by being loved, that one can come nearest to the soul of another." I testify that it is by serving, and not by being served, that we can come closest to each other.
The Savior, in Luke 9:24, taught his disciples that "for whosoever will save his life shall lose it, but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it." Try to remember those words. You'll see why in a second.
Our beloved prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, once said that "I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service for others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively die, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish - and in effect, save their lives." These words of a prophet were inspired by the Savior's message in Luke 9. And it is with the promise that they who live for others will prosper and save themselves spiritually, that I bear these things, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
The topic that I've been given, in my own words, is How Performing Service Enables One to Better Become a Disciple of Jesus Christ."
When addressing this topic, I decided to approach it using each question word. They are, "who, what, where, when, why, and how." I would like to start with "What."
WHAT is service, and WHAT is a disciple? Service is a personal act you commit intended to aid someone. It could be anybody. There are no limitations on who is eligible to receive service. To be a disciple means to be a follower of a person or ideal. To be disciples of Jesus Christ, we must follow his ideals and his example. He exemplified his teachings, so we need only look to his life to see what we must become to be called his disciples. Jesus blessed all he met during his journeys. He raised the dead, turned water to wine, and performed so many more acts of miraculous service than we can list. That's how we should act, even if we don't go around raising dead people and healing infirmities. We should strive to bless the people in our lives.
Next is "Why." WHY should we give service? Answer! We perform service because EVERYBODY wants to be happy. It also helps us to perfect ourselves. In that famous verse in Mosiah about service, it states that when we serve our fellow beings, we are only in the service of our God. We don't give service because it's necessary to the fate of creation. We do it because we are healed when we heal others. Because we have been given much, we too must give. We're told in Mosiah 2:21 that even if we served the Creator with our whole souls, we would still be unprofitable servants. Don't let that discourage you however, because we are. The reason we're ONLY in the service of our God is found in Moses, first chapter, thirty-ninth verse. We learn that it is our Heavenly Father's work and glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. When we perform meaningful service, we bring others and ourselves a little nearer to this eternal goal, which is God's plan for us. This self-perfection is also the reason that if your heart isn't in your service, you won't benefit from it. We also give service because the Master gave service, and we are striving to be disciples of Christ. In Luke 22:27, he stated that "I am among you as He that serveth." We give service because Christ did, and he taught in John 13:35 that, "By this ye shall know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." Giving service is an expression of love. We are also obligated to serve by our baptismal covenant. In the 18th chapter of Mosiah, Alma teaches that part of the baptismal covenant is to "bear one another's burdens."
The third question is "Who." WHO do we serve? WE serve GOD. Twenty-fourth chapter of the Book of Joshua. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!" WHO performs service? Answer? WE do! We can all perform service in our own ways! WHO benefits from service? EVERYBODY! WE help to fulfill GOD'S plan, found in Moses 1:39, for US when WE serve OTHERS. By helping OTHERS we help OURSELVES, which is what GOD wants for us. It's a wonderful system, where everyone is benefited.
The fourth and fifth questions are "Where" and "When." The answer? We can give service ANYTIME and ANYWHERE. Service is not just temporal, as I hope to show you, and the ways we can perform it are infinite. The Savior showed us that as long as we look for it, there is always an opportunity for service.
The sixth question is "How." HOW do we give service? I believe that there are four different, but always similar, ways to give service that help us become disciples of Christ.
The first way to serve others is temporally. That is usually the first form of service a person thinks of. It is a simple, effective, good way to give service. Many of the acts of service Christ performed were temporal. In the same way, we should perform temporal service for others. There are a multitude of stories about temporal service, ranging from a small child playing together with a lonely playmate, to entire wards gathering together to harvest fields and build houses. If you haven't experienced the blessing of temporal service, I encourage you to go out and serve. It could be raking a widow's yard, or making a meal for an ill family. Making a meal may be risky however, as the Relief Society is usually right on top of that! Speaking of which, the Relief Society, along with the Bishopric, forms a sort of parenthood in each ward. The Relief Society is the mommy, and the Bishopric is the daddy (of service)! They are always there to serve, and ensure that those in need receive aid. If you need help, or wish to give it, you need only speak to a member of the Bishopric or Relief Society presidency. Great amounts of time can be spent on any topic regarding service, but for the sake of time I will move on.
The second form of service is spiritual. Often, this form of service is linked with the temporal variety, as we currently live in a temporal world. Examples of this service include teaching a church class, or giving a priesthood blessing. To me, those who teach are giving one of the greatest acts of spiritual service. Teaching is a divine calling, appointed by God. Any member who magnifies their calling is also giving spiritual service. The single greatest act of spiritual service any person has performed for another is the atonement of Jesus Christ. The atonement is the single most momentous event in all of history. The Savior, in the ultimate act of sacrifice, and of selfless service, fulfilled the requirements of both mercy and justice, and gave us a way to return to our Farther in heaven. Another one of the greatest acts of spiritual service is to forgive and apologize for wrongdoing. In Deiter F. Uchtdorf's words, we should "stop it." Stop trying to make justifications for rationalizations for sins, and stop putting off the two-word phrase, "I'm sorry." Stop it, apologize, and fix it.
The third act of service you can perform is emotional. This form of service is heavily connected to the other forms. This is a varied topic, so, for the sake of everyone, I will speak about the most sacred way to give this service. This special act of service is not always thought of as service. I would like to convince you that it is. It's friendship. Being a true friend is, I will be so bold to say, the second greatest act of service, eclipsed only by the atonement. Even the atonement, if looked at from a different point of view, is a splendid act of familial friendship. Indeed, Jesus the Christ should be our most intimate of friends, along with our Heavenly Father. A true friend can make all the difference in a person's life, both to the friend and the friendee (if that's even a word). Friendship is TWO-way service. Being a friend is like going through life. People can give you examples and advice, but in the end it's up to each and every one of us to experience it for ourselves. I encourage you to make friends with your family. Odds are, you'll be sealed to them forever. They're your most important relations. Then, branch out to everybody else in your life. Be friends with all! To learn more about being a true friend, I suggest looking to the lives of our modern day prophets, as well as the scriptures, especially the gospels of Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John, which detail the life of the truest of friends, Jesus the Christ. I would add, on a personal note, Doctrine and Covenants, 18th chapter, which includes that scripture about the worth of souls, a personal favourite of mine. How great should be your joy... if because of your friendship with another, they develop those same bonds with others, and everyone's life is enriched, and this continues among the whole human race until everyone's united in love and friendship. I hope we will all strive to bring that day just a bit closer. Stepping back from that bit of idealistic hope, just be the best friend you can to everyone you meet and you'll do fine.
The fourth way you can serve is by forgiving. This is critical to your eternal progression. Repentance and forgiveness are vast subjects, so I will simply say this. You must forgive yourself, along with others. This is important for you, and for you to give to others. Isn't it coincidental how similar the words "serve" and "save" are? Many great people have taught that there are no coincidences. Service is important, for the giver and recipient. Don't take it from me, here are a few observations from those wiser than I.
Famed Scottish theologian George MacDonald observed, "It is by loving, and not by being loved, that one can come nearest to the soul of another." I testify that it is by serving, and not by being served, that we can come closest to each other.
The Savior, in Luke 9:24, taught his disciples that "for whosoever will save his life shall lose it, but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it." Try to remember those words. You'll see why in a second.
Our beloved prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, once said that "I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service for others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively die, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish - and in effect, save their lives." These words of a prophet were inspired by the Savior's message in Luke 9. And it is with the promise that they who live for others will prosper and save themselves spiritually, that I bear these things, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
July 26, 2012
July 23, 2012
Diver by NICO Touches the Walls
A/N: Sorry, no link for this yet.
There are two different versions of this song; one is a significantly shorter one used for the 8th Naruto opening, while the longer is the original. I'd like to talk about the lyrics of the full song before taking a glance at the opening theme version.
So, take a moment. Think about the lyrics as we go, they're good. And... all right, here we go.
"The horizon is drifting away
The sky is too blue to depict tomorrow on"
To me, this sound like a "everything just seems to be too good. Things really can't go on like this." Honestly, that's all I can really think about this line.
"A group of stagnated people struggling to breathe
Since when did I crawl under here?"
Two words. Bad crowd. Stagnated people - people who don't change, won't change.. they're struggling to breathe, they're barely continuing on. Then that question - what am i doing here? Since when did this become the sort of thing I hang around?
"I’ll spill out my sadness
Wouldn’t I be better off only looking forward?
Well then I guess I can’t take the lead"
Throw away everything that's hurting you, just be optimistic, keep going! But apparently, the traits that make good leaders lead to hurt (which could be very true). I guess I can't take the lead if i'm struggling with all of this and just trying to look to tomorrow...
"Even if I turn everything around to be my enemy,
I will still feel a dim light
If I’m going to go that far, then…"
So, this line makes me think that no matter how bad things are, there's still hope to turn it around. No matter what, you can always turn things around. There will always be that little tugging feeling in your heart, telling you which way to go. Then the third line serves to segway into the chorus, which changes a bit each verse.
"I want to breathe, it’s painful here
The night you look up at darkness
A floating diver with decompression sickness
Wanting to confirm that I'm alive
Let’s take one more breath, heading down to the bottom of the ocean"
This always hits me so hard. "I want to breathe." Think of the stagnated people. I don't want to be like that, I want to breathe! I want to live, I want to change! It hurts to be in a place like this, I want to change! I want to be better. It's like being a diver with decompression sickness. Decompression sickness occurs when divers head up to the surface too quickly, and don't properly adjust to the changing pressures that accompany different depths. In the context of this song, it'd be a metaphor for... improving your life? Getting away from a bad time in your life? I'm not sure, because that last line is talking about going back. Maybe you're going back to save one of those stagnated people? Could be, especially considering it was used as an opening for Naruto.
"I turn the map over in my head,
The night when I was all alone and frightened by the things I lack
I always thought I was strong,
Always thought I was stronger than anyone else"
So this part is more straightforward than a lot of other parts. I'm getting ready to go on a journey, maybe sitting up in bed, too anxious for the morning's journey. Journeying... for love? Acceptance? To save someone? Either/and/or, anything works. Personally, that line "I always thought I was . . . stronger than anyone else" is special. That's how it is so often. Change like this doesn't happen without humility, without stripping away all your pride.
"A lost swan was floating in the starry night sky
It started to rain lullingly"
A symbol of beauty to strive for; rainy nights with stars? Hm. A lost swan... could that be representative of the thing I'm striving to save, the person I left at the bottom of the ocean?
"Just as stars are stars, I’m just me
Can I go that far..."
Can I go that far. That is the question. I'm Just Me. For some reason, I just love these lines. They're simple, but please think about them. I don't know why, but they're significant to me.
"With a heavy anchor on my back
And a picture of prayers as a little extra
It started to rain as if giving me a cue"
The first time I looked through this, I only thought of the anchor as mistakes, something to weigh you down in a negative way. But now... maybe it's a way to stay in the same place, so you won't get lost. Maybe it's there to keep you anchored to the surface. Anyways, a picture of prayers. Motivation, memories of friends, that's all I'm getting from that. Then the reference to rain as a cue references the part earlier, with the lost swan and all.
"I want to breathe, it’s painful here
Me, looking up into the darkness, a diver without a way to float
If you want proof that you’re alive
Let’s head down to the bottom of the ocean one more time "
Looking up into the darkness can be a scary thing. In this scenario, I think that it's a "looking into darkness... trying to find my best friend" sort of thing. I am now convinced that this song is about two people.
"I want to try to breathe
If I could just sense a bit of happiness, I would never drown again"
Well, this is the place to try (kudos if You get the reference). If You can just be certain that things will get better, there won't be any doubt... If only...
There are two different versions of this song; one is a significantly shorter one used for the 8th Naruto opening, while the longer is the original. I'd like to talk about the lyrics of the full song before taking a glance at the opening theme version.
So, take a moment. Think about the lyrics as we go, they're good. And... all right, here we go.
"The horizon is drifting away
The sky is too blue to depict tomorrow on"
To me, this sound like a "everything just seems to be too good. Things really can't go on like this." Honestly, that's all I can really think about this line.
"A group of stagnated people struggling to breathe
Since when did I crawl under here?"
Two words. Bad crowd. Stagnated people - people who don't change, won't change.. they're struggling to breathe, they're barely continuing on. Then that question - what am i doing here? Since when did this become the sort of thing I hang around?
"I’ll spill out my sadness
Wouldn’t I be better off only looking forward?
Well then I guess I can’t take the lead"
Throw away everything that's hurting you, just be optimistic, keep going! But apparently, the traits that make good leaders lead to hurt (which could be very true). I guess I can't take the lead if i'm struggling with all of this and just trying to look to tomorrow...
"Even if I turn everything around to be my enemy,
I will still feel a dim light
If I’m going to go that far, then…"
So, this line makes me think that no matter how bad things are, there's still hope to turn it around. No matter what, you can always turn things around. There will always be that little tugging feeling in your heart, telling you which way to go. Then the third line serves to segway into the chorus, which changes a bit each verse.
"I want to breathe, it’s painful here
The night you look up at darkness
A floating diver with decompression sickness
Wanting to confirm that I'm alive
Let’s take one more breath, heading down to the bottom of the ocean"
This always hits me so hard. "I want to breathe." Think of the stagnated people. I don't want to be like that, I want to breathe! I want to live, I want to change! It hurts to be in a place like this, I want to change! I want to be better. It's like being a diver with decompression sickness. Decompression sickness occurs when divers head up to the surface too quickly, and don't properly adjust to the changing pressures that accompany different depths. In the context of this song, it'd be a metaphor for... improving your life? Getting away from a bad time in your life? I'm not sure, because that last line is talking about going back. Maybe you're going back to save one of those stagnated people? Could be, especially considering it was used as an opening for Naruto.
"I turn the map over in my head,
The night when I was all alone and frightened by the things I lack
I always thought I was strong,
Always thought I was stronger than anyone else"
So this part is more straightforward than a lot of other parts. I'm getting ready to go on a journey, maybe sitting up in bed, too anxious for the morning's journey. Journeying... for love? Acceptance? To save someone? Either/and/or, anything works. Personally, that line "I always thought I was . . . stronger than anyone else" is special. That's how it is so often. Change like this doesn't happen without humility, without stripping away all your pride.
"A lost swan was floating in the starry night sky
It started to rain lullingly"
A symbol of beauty to strive for; rainy nights with stars? Hm. A lost swan... could that be representative of the thing I'm striving to save, the person I left at the bottom of the ocean?
"Just as stars are stars, I’m just me
Can I go that far..."
Can I go that far. That is the question. I'm Just Me. For some reason, I just love these lines. They're simple, but please think about them. I don't know why, but they're significant to me.
"With a heavy anchor on my back
And a picture of prayers as a little extra
It started to rain as if giving me a cue"
The first time I looked through this, I only thought of the anchor as mistakes, something to weigh you down in a negative way. But now... maybe it's a way to stay in the same place, so you won't get lost. Maybe it's there to keep you anchored to the surface. Anyways, a picture of prayers. Motivation, memories of friends, that's all I'm getting from that. Then the reference to rain as a cue references the part earlier, with the lost swan and all.
"I want to breathe, it’s painful here
Me, looking up into the darkness, a diver without a way to float
If you want proof that you’re alive
Let’s head down to the bottom of the ocean one more time "
Looking up into the darkness can be a scary thing. In this scenario, I think that it's a "looking into darkness... trying to find my best friend" sort of thing. I am now convinced that this song is about two people.
"I want to try to breathe
If I could just sense a bit of happiness, I would never drown again"
Well, this is the place to try (kudos if You get the reference). If You can just be certain that things will get better, there won't be any doubt... If only...
July 22, 2012
A Piece of Advice
'Jump out of bed as soon as you hear the alarm clock!! You may also find it useful spending five minutes each morning saying to yourself: "Every day in every way I am getting better and better" Perhaps it is a good idea to start a new day with the right frame of mind.'
~Preface to OK Computer Lyrics by Radiohead
i really like this phrase. Personally, i will be trying to stick to it.
~Preface to OK Computer Lyrics by Radiohead
i really like this phrase. Personally, i will be trying to stick to it.
July 20, 2012
July 18, 2012
July 18, 2012
I am very sorry for the lack of posts! I am not in possession of my binder right now, in which is everything related to this story. Until I get it back this Saturday, I cannot continue the story. Also, I will post later about friendship, a topic I've been thinking a lot about, in part due to the song "Distance" by Long Shot Party. I do confess that I should've posted this sooner, as well as come up with something to do in the meantime. I'm so sorry!
On an unrelated note, The Dark Knight Rises will soon be upon us. I am confident in Christopher Nolan's storytelling ability, and only dream of emulating it. The movie will be sure to break records, as well as be one of the greatest movies of all time.
On an unrelated note, The Dark Knight Rises will soon be upon us. I am confident in Christopher Nolan's storytelling ability, and only dream of emulating it. The movie will be sure to break records, as well as be one of the greatest movies of all time.
July 11, 2012
Diver
So now my focus is on the song "Diver" by NICO Touches the Walls. It's also very beautiful and touching. ...that's sort of the reason I'm talking about and like it. I'm not going to do an indepth review of it right now, but I thought I'd bring it to your attention. It was brought to my attention by functioning as a Naruto opening, which was done extremely well.
"Just as stars are stars,
I'm just me...
Can I go that far..."
~Diver
"Just as stars are stars,
I'm just me...
Can I go that far..."
~Diver
July 10, 2012
Chapter 18
Chapter 18 - And the Winner is...!!
A/N: There really is no creativity flowing, sorry.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Beneath the Stands]
Sparrow: What?!
Sanyuta: You heard me. Would you like to see your friends?
Sparrow: Yes! Of course!
Sanyuta: Then win your next match.
Scene 2 [The Arena]
Noble Bepo: A brand new day! The semifinals will begin with a match between Anya and Hemita! Are the contestants ready? Fight!
[Hemita is able to defend against Slicer, and even score a point.]
Hemita: Slicer...
Slicer: Hemita?
[Hemita gets beneath Slicer's defense and scores again.]
Slicer: It is you...
[Slicer switches her sword to an underhanded position, confusing Hemita. She scores 10 points in 1 long string, continually switching hands and positions.]
Slicer: You always thought that you were a better swordsman than me. Guess I proved you wrong, huh?
Hemita: ...Impossible...
Bepo: The winner is Anya of the Kachyu! The next match will be Sezaru VS. Crow! The winner will face Anya in the finals! Fight!
[Sparrow is wary of Sezaru, who is confident. Sparrow performs a feint, tricking Sezaru, then performing the 3 point combo Nura used on her. She tries it again, but it fails and Sezaru blocks it and scores twice, revealing the weakness in the combo. Sparrow tries what Slicer does, but is inexperienced and they both score a point from the manuever. Sparrow screams and charges, surprising Sezaru, and scores a point from his surprise. They circle, then Sezaru lunges and scores a point. Sparrow uses Borin's strategy next, and scores 4 points for Sezaru's next 2. She taps Sezaru again in their next exchange, but the judge says that it didn't happen, and Sparrow didn't win. Sezaru gets upset and recklessly charges Sparrow, managing to score point after point until Sparrow manages to counter, winning 10 - 9.
Bepo: Our winner is Crow of the Buuda! It's time for our final match! Anya will battle Crow for the title of greatest fencer in Norea! Are you ready? Fight!
Sparrow: I have to win... for my friends!
Slicer: I have to win... for my purse!
[The two clash, but Slicer gets the better of Sparrow and scores (0-1). Sparrow tries to use Borin's technique, but is too slow and Slicer scores again (0-2). Sparrow clears her head, then uses Nura's combo. Slicer dodges the first two swipes, but is struck by the third and unable to retaliate (1-2). Both realize this will be a long battle. Slicer immediately pulls out her trump card, which is her "shifting sword storm" technique, the same that defeated Hemita so quickly. Sparrow freaks out, and Slicer scores 2 points before Sparrow runs behind her, confusing Slicer, so Sparrow takes the chance and scores 3 points (4-4). Slicer turns around, and now the 2 have switched positions. Sparrow is afraid because she knows that Slicer is a better fencer then she is. Slicer sees Sparrows fear and capitalizes on it, doing a fancy (but basic) attack, which works on Sparrow (4-5). Sparrow breathes deeply and decides that she has to win for her friends. She attacks, surprising Slicer, and scores (5-5).]
Sparrow: This ends, now!
Slicer: I agree, princess.
[Slicer starts dancing around Sparrow again, and scores 3 more points, while Sparrow only taps her once (6-8). Sparrow blocks Slicer's next round, and forces her to face her head on. They both score twice (8-10).]
Bepo: Anya of the Kachyu Clan has won the fencing portion of the Grand Tournament! Anya is the greatest fencer Norea has to offer. It looks like the Kachyu Clan is really bringing it this year!
A Quick Look At ~ Hemita
UNDER CONSTRUCTION. I am on a time crunch.
A/N: There really is no creativity flowing, sorry.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Beneath the Stands]
Sparrow: What?!
Sanyuta: You heard me. Would you like to see your friends?
Sparrow: Yes! Of course!
Sanyuta: Then win your next match.
Scene 2 [The Arena]
Noble Bepo: A brand new day! The semifinals will begin with a match between Anya and Hemita! Are the contestants ready? Fight!
[Hemita is able to defend against Slicer, and even score a point.]
Hemita: Slicer...
Slicer: Hemita?
[Hemita gets beneath Slicer's defense and scores again.]
Slicer: It is you...
[Slicer switches her sword to an underhanded position, confusing Hemita. She scores 10 points in 1 long string, continually switching hands and positions.]
Slicer: You always thought that you were a better swordsman than me. Guess I proved you wrong, huh?
Hemita: ...Impossible...
Bepo: The winner is Anya of the Kachyu! The next match will be Sezaru VS. Crow! The winner will face Anya in the finals! Fight!
[Sparrow is wary of Sezaru, who is confident. Sparrow performs a feint, tricking Sezaru, then performing the 3 point combo Nura used on her. She tries it again, but it fails and Sezaru blocks it and scores twice, revealing the weakness in the combo. Sparrow tries what Slicer does, but is inexperienced and they both score a point from the manuever. Sparrow screams and charges, surprising Sezaru, and scores a point from his surprise. They circle, then Sezaru lunges and scores a point. Sparrow uses Borin's strategy next, and scores 4 points for Sezaru's next 2. She taps Sezaru again in their next exchange, but the judge says that it didn't happen, and Sparrow didn't win. Sezaru gets upset and recklessly charges Sparrow, managing to score point after point until Sparrow manages to counter, winning 10 - 9.
Bepo: Our winner is Crow of the Buuda! It's time for our final match! Anya will battle Crow for the title of greatest fencer in Norea! Are you ready? Fight!
Sparrow: I have to win... for my friends!
Slicer: I have to win... for my purse!
[The two clash, but Slicer gets the better of Sparrow and scores (0-1). Sparrow tries to use Borin's technique, but is too slow and Slicer scores again (0-2). Sparrow clears her head, then uses Nura's combo. Slicer dodges the first two swipes, but is struck by the third and unable to retaliate (1-2). Both realize this will be a long battle. Slicer immediately pulls out her trump card, which is her "shifting sword storm" technique, the same that defeated Hemita so quickly. Sparrow freaks out, and Slicer scores 2 points before Sparrow runs behind her, confusing Slicer, so Sparrow takes the chance and scores 3 points (4-4). Slicer turns around, and now the 2 have switched positions. Sparrow is afraid because she knows that Slicer is a better fencer then she is. Slicer sees Sparrows fear and capitalizes on it, doing a fancy (but basic) attack, which works on Sparrow (4-5). Sparrow breathes deeply and decides that she has to win for her friends. She attacks, surprising Slicer, and scores (5-5).]
Sparrow: This ends, now!
Slicer: I agree, princess.
[Slicer starts dancing around Sparrow again, and scores 3 more points, while Sparrow only taps her once (6-8). Sparrow blocks Slicer's next round, and forces her to face her head on. They both score twice (8-10).]
Bepo: Anya of the Kachyu Clan has won the fencing portion of the Grand Tournament! Anya is the greatest fencer Norea has to offer. It looks like the Kachyu Clan is really bringing it this year!
A Quick Look At ~ Hemita
UNDER CONSTRUCTION. I am on a time crunch.
July 9, 2012
Chapter 17
Chapter 17 - Sanyuta's Samurai: The Slicer
A/N: Still no replacement for "How Things Work." Sorry. I will eventually come up with something.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Arena]
Noble Tuma: What an exciting battle! The winner is the Kachyu Clan's Anya! Next round will be the Romu Clan's Kasupe VS. the Orochi Clan's Mimizu! Are the contestants ready? Fight!
[Kasupe and Mimizu fence. Mimizu is fast, and quickly scores 3 points. Kasupe has more strength and endurance however, and, after he adjusts his strategy, wears out Mimizu and earns his 10 points.]
Tuma: The winner is the Romu Clan's Kasupe! Next round will be the Sehyara Clan's Hemita VS. the Wakari Clan's Tenji! Fight!
[Hemita is obviously a mercenary, bought by Noble Pachi. He defeats Tenji, although Tenji scores 7 points.]
Tuma: The winner is the Sehyara Clan's Hemita! The next fight will be the Chyosa Clan's Machimachi VS. the Napishya Clan's Sezaru! Fight!
[Machimachi is full to the brim with strength, but is far outmatched by Sezaru. He manages to get 4 points, but Sezaru earns 10 through sheer skill.]
Tuma: The winner is the Napishya Clan's Sezaru! The next fight will be the Pouza Clan's Munaku VS. the Sakuna Clan's Borin! Fight!
[Borin wins 10-5 by allowing himself to be struck, then scoring 2 points in return.]
Tuma: The winner is the Sakuna Clan's Borin! The next fight will be the Buuda Clan's Crow VS. the Manashya Clan's Nura! Fight!
[Sparrow's training pays off, and she scores 5 points in a row. She gets cocky, which lets Nura score 3 points. Sparrow scores again, but Nura performs the same combo again. Sparrow calms down, thinks, and comes up with a strategy. When Nura performs her combo again, Sparrow scores 4 points, winning.]
Tuma: The winner is the Buuda Clan's Crow! We are now ready to enter the 2nd round of fighting! The first battle of round 2 will be the Kachyu Clan's Anya VS. the Romu Clan's Kasupe! They will begin after a brief intermission to gather their strength.
Scene 2 [Under the Stands]
[Enter Sanyuta]
Sanyuta: She's impressive, isn't she?
Sparrow: You mean, Anya?
Sanyuta: That's just an alias. She's actually a mercenary, called the Slicer. I tracked her down for my team, in Rayuchi.
Scene 3 [Rayuchi, some time ago]
Sanyuta: So, you're "the Slicer?" I'm not impressed.
Slicer: How about an audition? Fight me, samurai!
[Sanyuta fights Slicer. Slicer wields no less than 4 swords, held in places like her elbows, under her chin, etc. She bests Sanyuta quickly and overwhelmingly.]
Sanyuta: So you're no mean swordsman... You'll do.
Slicer: Do what?
Sanyuta: here's 500 Tera's. I'd like you to compete in the Grand Tournament on behalf of the Kachyu Clan.
Slicer: Sounds like fun!
Scene 4 [The Arena]
Tuma: What an incredible fight! This is one for the history books, that was truly spectacular! Anya has won again! The next fight will be Sezaru VS. Borin! FIght!
[Borin tries his normal strategy, but Sezaru blocks Borin's follow up after scoring. Borin realizes he needs to change up his strategy. Borin's defense matches Sezura's offense, so they're at a stalemate. They eventually tie at 9 points. Borin tries his strategy one more time...]
Tuma: Amazing! Sezaru has defeated Borin! Even though he won, both contestants scored 10 points. Unfortunately for Borin, Sezura struck first! Congratulations to both contestants, even though only one will be moving on. Since today's nearly over, we'll finish the fencing competition tomorrow! Tomorrow, Anya of the Kachyu will face Hemita of the Sehyara, then Sezaru of the Napishya will face off against the Buuda's Crow! Finally will come the final match, and a winner will be crowned!
Scene 4 [Underneath the Stands]
Sanyuta: I told you, Slicer is the best at what she does.
Sparrow: I'll still beat her. I have to.
Sanyuta: Would you like to see your friends again?
A Quick Look At ~ The Slicer
Slicer is one of the poor children left in Rayuchi after the Battle between the Anarchists and Irakura. She was lucky to have touched the hearts of a gang called the Slicers, at age 6. They taught the girl how to wield a sword from the moment she could walk. She became a sword master through this training, and learned how to use swords in different positions all over her body. She became a mercenary to support her surrogate family, who were now aged and too feeble to make enough money to support themselves. Her true name lost, she calls herself the Slicer, after her 'family.'
A/N: Still no replacement for "How Things Work." Sorry. I will eventually come up with something.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Arena]
Noble Tuma: What an exciting battle! The winner is the Kachyu Clan's Anya! Next round will be the Romu Clan's Kasupe VS. the Orochi Clan's Mimizu! Are the contestants ready? Fight!
[Kasupe and Mimizu fence. Mimizu is fast, and quickly scores 3 points. Kasupe has more strength and endurance however, and, after he adjusts his strategy, wears out Mimizu and earns his 10 points.]
Tuma: The winner is the Romu Clan's Kasupe! Next round will be the Sehyara Clan's Hemita VS. the Wakari Clan's Tenji! Fight!
[Hemita is obviously a mercenary, bought by Noble Pachi. He defeats Tenji, although Tenji scores 7 points.]
Tuma: The winner is the Sehyara Clan's Hemita! The next fight will be the Chyosa Clan's Machimachi VS. the Napishya Clan's Sezaru! Fight!
[Machimachi is full to the brim with strength, but is far outmatched by Sezaru. He manages to get 4 points, but Sezaru earns 10 through sheer skill.]
Tuma: The winner is the Napishya Clan's Sezaru! The next fight will be the Pouza Clan's Munaku VS. the Sakuna Clan's Borin! Fight!
[Borin wins 10-5 by allowing himself to be struck, then scoring 2 points in return.]
Tuma: The winner is the Sakuna Clan's Borin! The next fight will be the Buuda Clan's Crow VS. the Manashya Clan's Nura! Fight!
[Sparrow's training pays off, and she scores 5 points in a row. She gets cocky, which lets Nura score 3 points. Sparrow scores again, but Nura performs the same combo again. Sparrow calms down, thinks, and comes up with a strategy. When Nura performs her combo again, Sparrow scores 4 points, winning.]
Tuma: The winner is the Buuda Clan's Crow! We are now ready to enter the 2nd round of fighting! The first battle of round 2 will be the Kachyu Clan's Anya VS. the Romu Clan's Kasupe! They will begin after a brief intermission to gather their strength.
Scene 2 [Under the Stands]
[Enter Sanyuta]
Sanyuta: She's impressive, isn't she?
Sparrow: You mean, Anya?
Sanyuta: That's just an alias. She's actually a mercenary, called the Slicer. I tracked her down for my team, in Rayuchi.
Scene 3 [Rayuchi, some time ago]
Sanyuta: So, you're "the Slicer?" I'm not impressed.
Slicer: How about an audition? Fight me, samurai!
[Sanyuta fights Slicer. Slicer wields no less than 4 swords, held in places like her elbows, under her chin, etc. She bests Sanyuta quickly and overwhelmingly.]
Sanyuta: So you're no mean swordsman... You'll do.
Slicer: Do what?
Sanyuta: here's 500 Tera's. I'd like you to compete in the Grand Tournament on behalf of the Kachyu Clan.
Slicer: Sounds like fun!
Scene 4 [The Arena]
Tuma: What an incredible fight! This is one for the history books, that was truly spectacular! Anya has won again! The next fight will be Sezaru VS. Borin! FIght!
[Borin tries his normal strategy, but Sezaru blocks Borin's follow up after scoring. Borin realizes he needs to change up his strategy. Borin's defense matches Sezura's offense, so they're at a stalemate. They eventually tie at 9 points. Borin tries his strategy one more time...]
Tuma: Amazing! Sezaru has defeated Borin! Even though he won, both contestants scored 10 points. Unfortunately for Borin, Sezura struck first! Congratulations to both contestants, even though only one will be moving on. Since today's nearly over, we'll finish the fencing competition tomorrow! Tomorrow, Anya of the Kachyu will face Hemita of the Sehyara, then Sezaru of the Napishya will face off against the Buuda's Crow! Finally will come the final match, and a winner will be crowned!
Scene 4 [Underneath the Stands]
Sanyuta: I told you, Slicer is the best at what she does.
Sparrow: I'll still beat her. I have to.
Sanyuta: Would you like to see your friends again?
A Quick Look At ~ The Slicer
Slicer is one of the poor children left in Rayuchi after the Battle between the Anarchists and Irakura. She was lucky to have touched the hearts of a gang called the Slicers, at age 6. They taught the girl how to wield a sword from the moment she could walk. She became a sword master through this training, and learned how to use swords in different positions all over her body. She became a mercenary to support her surrogate family, who were now aged and too feeble to make enough money to support themselves. Her true name lost, she calls herself the Slicer, after her 'family.'
July 6, 2012
Music, At The Present
So lately, I've been minorly-obsessed with the song "Midnight Orchestra." It was introduced to me by an OVA of Naruto, featuring Naruto, Sasuke, and their bonds. It was a touching video, but the music is even better.
Here's a link to the video.It's really awesome, in my opinion. I love the piano pieces, as much as the bits with the orchestra (ironic, huh?). Sometimes, you'll see "Mayonaka no Orchestra," instead. Mayo means night, and naka means middle, thus mayonaka means middle of the night (midnight). "No" shows possession, means that this is Midnight's Orchestra, or an Orchestra of Midnight. Hence, Midnight Orchestra in English.
About the video:
I love the first part, how it actually gives us a bit of a story. Sasuke and Naruto are at some sort of lake, getting ready to face off (once again). Ironically, they're positions are reversed than where they stood at the Valley of the End, and the lake is very remnicsent of that place. The beginning of the video does an excellent job retelling Naruto and Sasuke's academy days without using words, while also showing that mutual rivalry, and their bond as a team. The feelings of nostalgia this brings up (seeing them chase the dog, for example, or the tree training) are very powerful. We then get a recap of their respective achievements (for Naruto, his Chunin Exam battles are recounted, along with his tussle with Gaara. Then, we see the Zabuza/Haku fight for both of them. On Sasuke's side, we see his preliminary battle, and his faceoff with Orochimaru in the forest of death.)
I love the first part, how it actually gives us a bit of a story. Sasuke and Naruto are at some sort of lake, getting ready to face off (once again). Ironically, they're positions are reversed than where they stood at the Valley of the End, and the lake is very remnicsent of that place. The beginning of the video does an excellent job retelling Naruto and Sasuke's academy days without using words, while also showing that mutual rivalry, and their bond as a team. The feelings of nostalgia this brings up (seeing them chase the dog, for example, or the tree training) are very powerful. We then get a recap of their respective achievements (for Naruto, his Chunin Exam battles are recounted, along with his tussle with Gaara. Then, we see the Zabuza/Haku fight for both of them. On Sasuke's side, we see his preliminary battle, and his faceoff with Orochimaru in the forest of death.)
After all that, we see, rather heartbreakingly, all the loneliness these two experienced. It makes them very similar. Then, comes one of my favorite parts.
First, we have Sasuke and Naruto facing each other, symbolizing friendship and unity.
Then, we're treated to some scenes like this, featuring Itachi, who is the wedge driven between Naruto and Sasuke, leading to this...
Finally, we have scenes of the Sound 4 and Orochimaru (and his curse mark), who are the catalysts for Sasuke leaving the village. He severs his bonds, believing them to weaken him and his quest for revenge, leading to this...
Next, we take a break from this sad story, and get some original animation to go along with the music, like this gem:
After that, they get back to the 'present' where Naruto (Sage mode) and Sasuke (Mangekyou Sharingan) are battling. It's a cool piece of action.
After that, we get another review of the two's achievements, though this is from Part 2 of the story. We see Itachi, Pain, and various other Akatsuki. I am disappointed that they didn't include Deidara for Sasuke's sake though. Although Deidara blew himself up, Sasuke still outmaneuvered and defeated him. There are only two antagonists for this bit: Pain (With Co.) and Itachi. Here's the mugshots:
Some effective staring. Although, that could represent the genjutsu battle. Either way, these are.... not bad pictures!
And here's our Sage Naruto and Pain, with Paths and sidekick-er, Konan.Then we have some cool pieces of their respective fights:
Right: Naruto using Rasen-shuriken...
Below: Sasuke/Itachi firefight... with fire.
Right: Sasuke's Mangekyou forming, after Itachi died.Right: Itachi poking Sasuke in the forehead. Oh, the trauma.
Below: 
Itachi/Sasuke shuriken shoot out. So much fun to watch, even if it doesn't make good pictures!
Itachi/Sasuke shuriken shoot out. So much fun to watch, even if it doesn't make good pictures!
Left: Naruto/Pain doing some fancy taijutsu. After all of this, we get back to the present, where Sasuke and Naruto are both injured and weary. We are winding up to the last moments of the fight, as evidenced by this...
And here it is. There respective signature moves, the Chidori (left) and Rasengan (right). This is always how they end their fights.... Then, suddenly, everything starts coming together!
That's the end. Well, after holding hands as little kids the two clash and stuff happens and the story part of the video is resolved. BUT! To me, this is the emotional ending of the video. In between these pics, all sorts of things happen, mainly the Valley of the End battle has it's important moments spaced in between. All in all, if You understand Naruto (even if You don't) this is a very touching video. The lyrics make it that much stronger.
A Few FYI's
FYI:
1) I do actually go back and edit posts sometimes.
2) I do love music, and will post about it.
3) I do enjoy the anime/manga series of Naruto, and am considering posting reviews of it here. It has a lot of meaning, and is just really enjoyable.
4) There are currently 3 naming exceptions in "The Prince." The rule that these 3 (Blaze, Sparrow, and Tuma) are exceptions to are Japanese naming conventions. These are a bit confusing, if you don't know the language. Basically, all the names, save those 3, are as they'd be pronounced in Japanese.
1) I do actually go back and edit posts sometimes.
2) I do love music, and will post about it.
3) I do enjoy the anime/manga series of Naruto, and am considering posting reviews of it here. It has a lot of meaning, and is just really enjoyable.
4) There are currently 3 naming exceptions in "The Prince." The rule that these 3 (Blaze, Sparrow, and Tuma) are exceptions to are Japanese naming conventions. These are a bit confusing, if you don't know the language. Basically, all the names, save those 3, are as they'd be pronounced in Japanese.
Chapter 16
Chapter 16 - The Grand Tournament Begins!!
A/N: Still working on a replacement for "How Things Work"
Act 1, Scene 1 [Kachigoru]
Prince Irakura: Welcome one, welcome all! Here we are, at the 63rd Annual Grand Tournament. Although I love speaking to you, I will let each Noble introduce their teams, and our game masters, Nobles Bepo and Tuma, will explain the games. Let's start with my own clan!
Noble Gachi: Let me introduce the Romu Clan's team. Kasupe will be fencing, Yakusa will be dueling, Pisu will be playing Chisazu, Chyan will be running the course, and Huka will be our archer.
Noble Pachi: My Clan's team is composed of Hemita, Igune, Soubechi, Kaizusu, and Poude, fencing, dueling, playing Chisazu, running the couse, and performing archery respectively.
Noble Tuma: In the same order as the other Nobles, the Kachyu Clan is submitting Anya, Herushi, Paio, Jyo and Sanyuta, my son.
Noble Bepo: My Clan's team is made up of Paizou, Shimu, Zepaku, Hachi, and Kairu.
Noble Chika: My team is Borin, Rakuza, Pumi, Michu, and her sister Munde.
Noble Rebasu: My team is composed of Sezaru, Karetto, Bino, Tochia, and I myself will be competing.
Noble Hebimaru: The Orochi Clan has sent Mimizu, Naru, Rame, Susaka, and Omina to represent them.
Noble Beruze: My team is Munaku, Aishi, Zububu, Giode, and Ankure.
Noble Hendo: My team is Tenji, the Navy's own Admiral Blaze, Tamari, Nananana, and Sunasu.
Noble Baku: Nura, Niku, Machyan, Zemo, and Noruka make up my Clan's team.
Noble Kikuya: My Clan has sent Machimachi, Sumora, Oriza, Tai, and Urou to represent us.
Noble Zen: My team is made up of a woman called Crow, Ikoi, Atana, Jyakuge, and Yu Yan.
Irakura: How exciting! So many names. I'm sure that many of these names will live on in Norea's history, as so much more than competitors in the Grand Tournament.
Tuma: After a short discussion, Bepo and I have decided that this exercise in public speaking would be better for him, rather than me.
Bepo: Thank you, Tuma. And thank you, everyone, for coming! This promises to be the best Grand Tournament ever! Despite the war in Dracoa, and some minor issues at home, the field of competitors is as rich as it ever has been! I'd like to give a brief explanation of each of the games.
The Tournament is played in several rounds, with losers from each 1-on-1 match being eliminated. Firstly is fencing. This will be exciting, and will be purely skill based, with points awarded on contacts. Next is the multiple weapons duel. This will function the same as fencing, but will be fought in several rounds, with 3 points winning a round. After a round, the duelists change weapons. We have a rich variety of weapons this year, and the multiple weapons duel is always popular. The next category is the ever-popular strategy game of Chisazu. This will be a brain game, and as such, doesn't make the best spectator sport. What will be interesting however, are our human pieces! They will be used to show the game on a larger scale for all us spectators. The next game is the obstacle course. This will be judged based on speed. As the Tournament progresses, the course will become more difficult. Of course, there will be minor changes after each go to ensure fairness. Finally, there is archery. There are 3 different archery tests, and whoever is the most accurate in each will win.
Scene 2 [Outside the Arena]
Sanyuta: Sparrow, you came! Your friends will be glad.
Sparrow: I've agreed to your pathetic plan, now let them go!
Sanyuta: Not until the Tournament is over. By the way, which category are you in?
Sparrow: Fencing.
Sanyuta: Ah. Pity! I myself am an archer, for the sake of my teammates.
Sparrow: For the sake of your teammates? What's that supposed to mean?
Sanyuta: My teammates are the best at what they do. Honestly, the only unbeatable talent we're lacking is archery, so that's where I'm at. I'm no mean shot myself.
Sparrow: I'll have to prove to everyone here that you're teammates aren't the best... I will beat you!
Scene 3 [Arena]
Bepo: In closing, let's all come together and create something wonderful. Let the Grand Tournament begin!
[Exit Bepo]
Tuma: I couldn't agree more! To officially begin the tournament, 12 runners from Romunemu have been running non-stop, trading with fresh runners. The reason for this? They carry torches lit at the great Lord Teradoku's funeral pyre. Those torches are going to be used to light this bonfire here. When the bonfire is lit, we will begin our Tournament with a fencing match between the Kachyu and Kayuchi, to show off the newfound friendship between our Clans!
[Enter Bepo]
Bepo: The runners are here!
[Enter 12 runners bearing torches]
Irakura: Light the fire!
Tuma: The Grand Tournament has begun! Our first match will be a fencing match between Anya of the Kachyu Clan, and Major Paizou of the Kayuchi Clan! Competitors, take your place in the arena!
A Quick Look At ~ Paizou
Paizou is one of General Hanzo's Majors. He is a star swordsman. He was chosen as the representative for the Kachyu Clan because he lacks the bigotry some Kayuchi have shown. His role is very important, as both the inaugral match of the Grand Tournament, and, in a sense, an ambassador to the Kachyu. He is a kind person, though he is extremely obedient to his higher ups.
A/N: Still working on a replacement for "How Things Work"
Act 1, Scene 1 [Kachigoru]
Prince Irakura: Welcome one, welcome all! Here we are, at the 63rd Annual Grand Tournament. Although I love speaking to you, I will let each Noble introduce their teams, and our game masters, Nobles Bepo and Tuma, will explain the games. Let's start with my own clan!
Noble Gachi: Let me introduce the Romu Clan's team. Kasupe will be fencing, Yakusa will be dueling, Pisu will be playing Chisazu, Chyan will be running the course, and Huka will be our archer.
Noble Pachi: My Clan's team is composed of Hemita, Igune, Soubechi, Kaizusu, and Poude, fencing, dueling, playing Chisazu, running the couse, and performing archery respectively.
Noble Tuma: In the same order as the other Nobles, the Kachyu Clan is submitting Anya, Herushi, Paio, Jyo and Sanyuta, my son.
Noble Bepo: My Clan's team is made up of Paizou, Shimu, Zepaku, Hachi, and Kairu.
Noble Chika: My team is Borin, Rakuza, Pumi, Michu, and her sister Munde.
Noble Rebasu: My team is composed of Sezaru, Karetto, Bino, Tochia, and I myself will be competing.
Noble Hebimaru: The Orochi Clan has sent Mimizu, Naru, Rame, Susaka, and Omina to represent them.
Noble Beruze: My team is Munaku, Aishi, Zububu, Giode, and Ankure.
Noble Hendo: My team is Tenji, the Navy's own Admiral Blaze, Tamari, Nananana, and Sunasu.
Noble Baku: Nura, Niku, Machyan, Zemo, and Noruka make up my Clan's team.
Noble Kikuya: My Clan has sent Machimachi, Sumora, Oriza, Tai, and Urou to represent us.
Noble Zen: My team is made up of a woman called Crow, Ikoi, Atana, Jyakuge, and Yu Yan.
Irakura: How exciting! So many names. I'm sure that many of these names will live on in Norea's history, as so much more than competitors in the Grand Tournament.
Tuma: After a short discussion, Bepo and I have decided that this exercise in public speaking would be better for him, rather than me.
Bepo: Thank you, Tuma. And thank you, everyone, for coming! This promises to be the best Grand Tournament ever! Despite the war in Dracoa, and some minor issues at home, the field of competitors is as rich as it ever has been! I'd like to give a brief explanation of each of the games.
The Tournament is played in several rounds, with losers from each 1-on-1 match being eliminated. Firstly is fencing. This will be exciting, and will be purely skill based, with points awarded on contacts. Next is the multiple weapons duel. This will function the same as fencing, but will be fought in several rounds, with 3 points winning a round. After a round, the duelists change weapons. We have a rich variety of weapons this year, and the multiple weapons duel is always popular. The next category is the ever-popular strategy game of Chisazu. This will be a brain game, and as such, doesn't make the best spectator sport. What will be interesting however, are our human pieces! They will be used to show the game on a larger scale for all us spectators. The next game is the obstacle course. This will be judged based on speed. As the Tournament progresses, the course will become more difficult. Of course, there will be minor changes after each go to ensure fairness. Finally, there is archery. There are 3 different archery tests, and whoever is the most accurate in each will win.
Scene 2 [Outside the Arena]
Sanyuta: Sparrow, you came! Your friends will be glad.
Sparrow: I've agreed to your pathetic plan, now let them go!
Sanyuta: Not until the Tournament is over. By the way, which category are you in?
Sparrow: Fencing.
Sanyuta: Ah. Pity! I myself am an archer, for the sake of my teammates.
Sparrow: For the sake of your teammates? What's that supposed to mean?
Sanyuta: My teammates are the best at what they do. Honestly, the only unbeatable talent we're lacking is archery, so that's where I'm at. I'm no mean shot myself.
Sparrow: I'll have to prove to everyone here that you're teammates aren't the best... I will beat you!
Scene 3 [Arena]
Bepo: In closing, let's all come together and create something wonderful. Let the Grand Tournament begin!
[Exit Bepo]
Tuma: I couldn't agree more! To officially begin the tournament, 12 runners from Romunemu have been running non-stop, trading with fresh runners. The reason for this? They carry torches lit at the great Lord Teradoku's funeral pyre. Those torches are going to be used to light this bonfire here. When the bonfire is lit, we will begin our Tournament with a fencing match between the Kachyu and Kayuchi, to show off the newfound friendship between our Clans!
[Enter Bepo]
Bepo: The runners are here!
[Enter 12 runners bearing torches]
Irakura: Light the fire!
Tuma: The Grand Tournament has begun! Our first match will be a fencing match between Anya of the Kachyu Clan, and Major Paizou of the Kayuchi Clan! Competitors, take your place in the arena!
A Quick Look At ~ Paizou
Paizou is one of General Hanzo's Majors. He is a star swordsman. He was chosen as the representative for the Kachyu Clan because he lacks the bigotry some Kayuchi have shown. His role is very important, as both the inaugral match of the Grand Tournament, and, in a sense, an ambassador to the Kachyu. He is a kind person, though he is extremely obedient to his higher ups.
July 5, 2012
Chapter 15
Chapter 15 - Gramp-Sensei's Advice
How Things Work: The Admiralty
Noble Hendo is the head of the Navy, and takes care of it's responsibilities. He is treated as the Head Admiral, and there are 3 Admirals below him. The 3 Admirals are Admiral Blaze, Admiral Yuhei, and Admiral Deruge. Each Admiral is over only 5 ships, Norea having an extremely small navy. Each Admiral can post their own Captains, but the Head Admiral can overrule them.
Admiral Blaze is a tactical master, and an expert at inspiring his troops. No one dares cross him, because of his massive offensive ability. He's from the Romu Clan.
Admiral Yuhei is more accustomed to relief missions, but is no slouch when it comes to fighting. Her marines love her, and any one of them would die for her. She's from the Sehyara Clan.
Admiral Deruge is the newest Admiral, and still has as of yet to prove himself. Admiral Blaze is his hero, and he tries to take after him, though he's more sensitive. He's from the Kayuchi Clan.
A.N: I may possibly end this segment soon, as I'm running out of topics. If I did, I'll probably have to come up with something to replace it.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Moresuke Town Hall]
Mayor Jakirusa's Aide: You have a guest, sir.
Mayor Jakirusa: Bring them in.
[Enter Sparrow]
Jakirusa: What is your business?
Sparrow: I've heard that you're not Prince Irakura's biggest fan.
Jakirusa: No. I am not. What of it?
Sparrow: I have an offer for you. I am the leader of a rebel orginazation, named Ameyura. Our goal is the complete overthrow of Irakura and his supporters. The problem is, we need a base, a place to stay. That's where you come in. In return for providing us a home, we are willing to work for the betterment of the village. We would be subject to you, and wuold always ask your permission before executing missions, as well as providing security for the village. What say you?
Jakirusa: Give me some time to consider your proposal. Treason is not to be taken lightly.
Sparrow: Of course. I have to get some supplies anyways.
Scene 2 [Store]
Sparrow: I need everything on this list, but double.
Ekura: That will be 50 Tera's.
Sparrow: Can I pay in Aga's?
Ekura: Sure, but that'll be 500 Aga's!
Sparrow: Here you go! I'll be back later to pick up my supplies.
Ekura: Gekkou! Here, collect everything on this list, and do it quickly! And carefully!
Sparrow: Your brother?
Ekura: Yes. He drives mother crazy.
[Enter Burei]
Burei: Ekura, my sweet! Have you got my usual?
Ekura: Don't call me that... and here it is.
Sparrow: A bunch of candy? What are you, five?
Burei: My precious! By the way, we have a date later, sweetums.
Ekura: I'm not your girlfriend!
Burei: It'd be a pity if something happened to Gekkou...
Ekura: No!
Sparrow: I've heard enough! Leave her alone!
Burei: You... punched me! You touched me!
Sparrow: Get out before I hit you again!
[Exit Burei]
Ekura: You shouldn't have done that. Bad things happen to people who cross Burei. He's Kuzaya!
Sparrow: That infamous gang has a branch in a small village like this?!
Ekura: Thank heaven, no. Burei came here from a big city a while ago. His Kuzaya tattoo earned him respect among the guys, and now he commands them like a wanna-be gang. I'm afraid something bad's going to happen to you now...
Sparrow: Don't worry, I can take care of myself!
[Exit Sparrow]
Act 2, Scene 1 [Moresuke Street]
[Sparrow is set upon by numerous thugs. She can beat them individually, but is overwhelmed by the large group. Gramps saves her from a severe beating.]
Gramps: Never go alone! If you ever wanna accomplish anything, you need your friends.
Sparrow: Ah... thanks... where do these guys hang out?
Gramps: An abandoned building. You an't miss it, it's the only one. But what's your plan?
Sparrow: I'm gonna teach these guys a lesson.
Gramps: You can't accomplish anything without your friends!
Sparrow: I know... thank you for the advice.
Scene 2 [Abandoned Building]
[Burei is chilling with his cronies, then Enter Sparrow]
Burei: What is she doing here?! I thought you guys took care of her!
Thug: The old guy helped her out.
Burei: Guess I'll have to teach her myself! Grab her!
Sparrow: I wouldn't do that! My friends wouldn't appreciate that.
[Enter Atsura, Jyakuge and Koiki... through the wall]
Atsura: Sparrow said that some punks needed to be taught a lesson?
Burei: Every man for himself! Run!
Sparrow: Gramps was right... never go it alone!
A Quick Look At ~ The Kuzaya
The Kuzaya is one of three gangs that make up the Triad. The other two are the Naparabo and the Akuma. The Kuzaya is stronger than the Naparabo, but weaker than the Akuma. The Kuzaya is very strong in small villages and towns, and thrives without competition, unlike the other two. They're normally organized into small-time street gangs. They have no centralized leadership, but answer to the Traid leader, as do all the members of the Triad.'
Next time, the Grand Tournament begins! Noble Bepo gives a speech, while Sparrow comes face to face with her enemy, Samurai Sanyuta of the Kachyu Clan! Each Noble's team is introduced as well.
How Things Work: The Admiralty
Noble Hendo is the head of the Navy, and takes care of it's responsibilities. He is treated as the Head Admiral, and there are 3 Admirals below him. The 3 Admirals are Admiral Blaze, Admiral Yuhei, and Admiral Deruge. Each Admiral is over only 5 ships, Norea having an extremely small navy. Each Admiral can post their own Captains, but the Head Admiral can overrule them.
Admiral Blaze is a tactical master, and an expert at inspiring his troops. No one dares cross him, because of his massive offensive ability. He's from the Romu Clan.
Admiral Yuhei is more accustomed to relief missions, but is no slouch when it comes to fighting. Her marines love her, and any one of them would die for her. She's from the Sehyara Clan.
Admiral Deruge is the newest Admiral, and still has as of yet to prove himself. Admiral Blaze is his hero, and he tries to take after him, though he's more sensitive. He's from the Kayuchi Clan.
A.N: I may possibly end this segment soon, as I'm running out of topics. If I did, I'll probably have to come up with something to replace it.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Moresuke Town Hall]
Mayor Jakirusa's Aide: You have a guest, sir.
Mayor Jakirusa: Bring them in.
[Enter Sparrow]
Jakirusa: What is your business?
Sparrow: I've heard that you're not Prince Irakura's biggest fan.
Jakirusa: No. I am not. What of it?
Sparrow: I have an offer for you. I am the leader of a rebel orginazation, named Ameyura. Our goal is the complete overthrow of Irakura and his supporters. The problem is, we need a base, a place to stay. That's where you come in. In return for providing us a home, we are willing to work for the betterment of the village. We would be subject to you, and wuold always ask your permission before executing missions, as well as providing security for the village. What say you?
Jakirusa: Give me some time to consider your proposal. Treason is not to be taken lightly.
Sparrow: Of course. I have to get some supplies anyways.
Scene 2 [Store]
Sparrow: I need everything on this list, but double.
Ekura: That will be 50 Tera's.
Sparrow: Can I pay in Aga's?
Ekura: Sure, but that'll be 500 Aga's!
Sparrow: Here you go! I'll be back later to pick up my supplies.
Ekura: Gekkou! Here, collect everything on this list, and do it quickly! And carefully!
Sparrow: Your brother?
Ekura: Yes. He drives mother crazy.
[Enter Burei]
Burei: Ekura, my sweet! Have you got my usual?
Ekura: Don't call me that... and here it is.
Sparrow: A bunch of candy? What are you, five?
Burei: My precious! By the way, we have a date later, sweetums.
Ekura: I'm not your girlfriend!
Burei: It'd be a pity if something happened to Gekkou...
Ekura: No!
Sparrow: I've heard enough! Leave her alone!
Burei: You... punched me! You touched me!
Sparrow: Get out before I hit you again!
[Exit Burei]
Ekura: You shouldn't have done that. Bad things happen to people who cross Burei. He's Kuzaya!
Sparrow: That infamous gang has a branch in a small village like this?!
Ekura: Thank heaven, no. Burei came here from a big city a while ago. His Kuzaya tattoo earned him respect among the guys, and now he commands them like a wanna-be gang. I'm afraid something bad's going to happen to you now...
Sparrow: Don't worry, I can take care of myself!
[Exit Sparrow]
Act 2, Scene 1 [Moresuke Street]
[Sparrow is set upon by numerous thugs. She can beat them individually, but is overwhelmed by the large group. Gramps saves her from a severe beating.]
Gramps: Never go alone! If you ever wanna accomplish anything, you need your friends.
Sparrow: Ah... thanks... where do these guys hang out?
Gramps: An abandoned building. You an't miss it, it's the only one. But what's your plan?
Sparrow: I'm gonna teach these guys a lesson.
Gramps: You can't accomplish anything without your friends!
Sparrow: I know... thank you for the advice.
Scene 2 [Abandoned Building]
[Burei is chilling with his cronies, then Enter Sparrow]
Burei: What is she doing here?! I thought you guys took care of her!
Thug: The old guy helped her out.
Burei: Guess I'll have to teach her myself! Grab her!
Sparrow: I wouldn't do that! My friends wouldn't appreciate that.
[Enter Atsura, Jyakuge and Koiki... through the wall]
Atsura: Sparrow said that some punks needed to be taught a lesson?
Burei: Every man for himself! Run!
Sparrow: Gramps was right... never go it alone!
A Quick Look At ~ The Kuzaya
The Kuzaya is one of three gangs that make up the Triad. The other two are the Naparabo and the Akuma. The Kuzaya is stronger than the Naparabo, but weaker than the Akuma. The Kuzaya is very strong in small villages and towns, and thrives without competition, unlike the other two. They're normally organized into small-time street gangs. They have no centralized leadership, but answer to the Traid leader, as do all the members of the Triad.'
Next time, the Grand Tournament begins! Noble Bepo gives a speech, while Sparrow comes face to face with her enemy, Samurai Sanyuta of the Kachyu Clan! Each Noble's team is introduced as well.
Midnight Cellos
The song of midnight is shouting out
Truth is, I was lonely
Even if it gets erased in the radiance of the sun
Should we wave the flag now? Should we come together?
Should we just sing? Anything is fine
There’s just the question of whether or not you’ll be here or not
~Aqua Timez
Mark the beginning of the third chorus: 'the song of midnight is shouting out.' In each previous verse, it was 'the song of midnight shouted out.' So that marks that this isn't a memory of the past, or a problem that's passed us by. It's right here, and right now. Then comes that confession, 'truth is I was lonely.' In each previous verse, the phrase was 'I hate being alone.' Now, comes the confession that I was alone, and that ties into every other line, i.e. 'I've known what's important since that day' and 'I hate... not knowing whether You'll keep on being alone.' Everything else makes more sense with this integral piece of knowledge.
The next part of the phrase is 'Even if it gets erased in the radiance of the sun.' Essentially, there's this confession that I was lonely, regardless of all the good things that've happened since then. No matter how great things are now, the truth is, I was lonely.
And then there's that little part where you can just visualize two people trying to get to each other. Do you think they should wave the flags? Or sing? In the end, it doesn't matter as long as they get to somebody.
'Anything is fine... there's just the question of whether or not you'll be here or not.'
Despite redundancy in that last line, it really gets to me. It's a sort of, "it really doesn't matter what we do, so long as we stop being alone."
Truth is, I was lonely
Even if it gets erased in the radiance of the sun
Should we wave the flag now? Should we come together?
Should we just sing? Anything is fine
There’s just the question of whether or not you’ll be here or not
~Aqua Timez
Mark the beginning of the third chorus: 'the song of midnight is shouting out.' In each previous verse, it was 'the song of midnight shouted out.' So that marks that this isn't a memory of the past, or a problem that's passed us by. It's right here, and right now. Then comes that confession, 'truth is I was lonely.' In each previous verse, the phrase was 'I hate being alone.' Now, comes the confession that I was alone, and that ties into every other line, i.e. 'I've known what's important since that day' and 'I hate... not knowing whether You'll keep on being alone.' Everything else makes more sense with this integral piece of knowledge.
The next part of the phrase is 'Even if it gets erased in the radiance of the sun.' Essentially, there's this confession that I was lonely, regardless of all the good things that've happened since then. No matter how great things are now, the truth is, I was lonely.
And then there's that little part where you can just visualize two people trying to get to each other. Do you think they should wave the flags? Or sing? In the end, it doesn't matter as long as they get to somebody.
'Anything is fine... there's just the question of whether or not you'll be here or not.'
Despite redundancy in that last line, it really gets to me. It's a sort of, "it really doesn't matter what we do, so long as we stop being alone."
July 4, 2012
Chapter 14
A/N: "Under Construction" is my excuse for not quite knowing what to say yet, or being under a timecrunch to post the Chapter.
Chapter 14 - Sparrow's Teacher!! Gramps-Sensei!!
How Things Work: The Triads
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Act 1, Scene 1 [Court of Nobles]
Prince Irakura: With my permission, the Grand Tournament will be held in Kachigoru this year, under the joint care of our own Tuma and Bepo. I expect all of you to contribute. You wouldn't want to fight against the unity of this people, would you?
Scene 2 [Hall]
Noble Tuma: Zen!
Noble Zen: Yes, Tuma?
Tuma: Do you think you'll be able to find representatives?
Zen: Ah... I'm not sure. The monks have never really been good at getting the people together.
Tuma: I have a team who can represent your Clan. As a matter of fact, it'd be a large favor if it worked out this way... Please, let me help you!
Zen: Oh? Um, alright. Thank you!
Scene 3 [Moresuke]
Sparrow: Alright, team. We have 2 days to train.
Atana-Sensei: Er, Sparrow? I can't train without a partner who's good at Chisazu.
Sparrow: Everybody except Atana-Sensei has 2 days to train. Then, we set out for Kachigoru. Koiki, you can train with anybody you want, as long as they challenge you. You might need several partners, actually... Jyakuge, if you want to train you should go down to Devil's Gulch. Yu Yan, you're free to practice archery wherever you want, as long as you're practicing.
Jyakuge: And what about you? How are you training?
Sparrow: I'm going to see Gramps!
Scene 4 [Generals' HQ]
[Aside] Tuma: It's a good thing there's an entire hour between the Nobles' and Generals' meetings. Normally, Nobles meet with their Generals and debrief them, but I have extra time to get things in order. I am new around here after all...
Irakura: Tuma?
Tuma: My Lord?
Irakura: You're new so we need to explain a few things. Marore, why don't you explain?
General Marore: There are 12 Generals and 1 High General. Currently, 4 Generals and the High General are entrenched in Dracoa. This is why Irakura presides over our meetings instead of High General Sukaru. 2 more Generals were sent as reinforcements some time ago, and 2 Generals are watching over the battle at sea. Here, in Norea, there are 4 Generals. Yourself, Generals Hanzo and Gozen, and myself.
Tuma: I see...
General Gozen: I'm glad that a General for the Kachyu Clan is still here, instead of Hanzo replacing you. Don't get me wrong, Hanzo is a great General. It's just that, in my experience, the Kachyu samurai are among the fiercest of fighters when properly motivated.
Tuma: Indeed they are! You'll get to see some of that ferocity during the Grand Tournament!
Scene 5 [Moresuke]
Sparrow: It's been forever, Gramps!
Gramps-Sensei: Yeah. You only ever visit me when you need something from me.
Sparrow: Oh...
Gramps: So what is it this time?
Sparrow: I need a fencing partner. I'm a participant in the Grand Tournament!
Gramps: Wow, the Grand Tournament, eh? That's big stuff.
Sparrow: But that's only half of it. Atsura's captured. I'm going to try and use the Tournament as a front to rescue Atsura.
Gramps: I'll help your fencing, but you need to remember the most important thing: never go alone. You need the support of friends if you ever hope to accomplish anything.
Sparrow: Atsura may have been capture because I forgot that...
Gramps: Remember when you first showed up here, over a year ago?
Sparrow: Yeah.
Scene 6 [Moresuke, 1 year ago]
[Enter Sparrow]
Sparrow: Hi there! I'm Sparrow.
Gramps: Whaddya want?
Sparrow: How do you feel about our Prince, Irakura?
Gramps: Don't care. But I hear the Mayor has a grudge against him.
Sparrow: Perfect! Where's Town Hall? I need to speak with that man!
A Quick Look At ~ Gramps-Sensei
Gramps' children both died during the civil war. After that, he stopped caring about the state of the world, and quietly retired to Moresuke. When he met Sparrow, he was shocked because of a resemblance to his grand daughter. He took interest in her plight, and taught her that she should always keep her friends close. Apparently, he is an expert swordsman.
Next time, learn the story of Sparrow's arrival in Moresuke! There's a guy called Burei, and what's more, he's a member of the Kuzaya! How will Sparrow deal with such a dangerous enemy?
Chapter 14 - Sparrow's Teacher!! Gramps-Sensei!!
How Things Work: The Triads
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Act 1, Scene 1 [Court of Nobles]
Prince Irakura: With my permission, the Grand Tournament will be held in Kachigoru this year, under the joint care of our own Tuma and Bepo. I expect all of you to contribute. You wouldn't want to fight against the unity of this people, would you?
Scene 2 [Hall]
Noble Tuma: Zen!
Noble Zen: Yes, Tuma?
Tuma: Do you think you'll be able to find representatives?
Zen: Ah... I'm not sure. The monks have never really been good at getting the people together.
Tuma: I have a team who can represent your Clan. As a matter of fact, it'd be a large favor if it worked out this way... Please, let me help you!
Zen: Oh? Um, alright. Thank you!
Scene 3 [Moresuke]
Sparrow: Alright, team. We have 2 days to train.
Atana-Sensei: Er, Sparrow? I can't train without a partner who's good at Chisazu.
Sparrow: Everybody except Atana-Sensei has 2 days to train. Then, we set out for Kachigoru. Koiki, you can train with anybody you want, as long as they challenge you. You might need several partners, actually... Jyakuge, if you want to train you should go down to Devil's Gulch. Yu Yan, you're free to practice archery wherever you want, as long as you're practicing.
Jyakuge: And what about you? How are you training?
Sparrow: I'm going to see Gramps!
Scene 4 [Generals' HQ]
[Aside] Tuma: It's a good thing there's an entire hour between the Nobles' and Generals' meetings. Normally, Nobles meet with their Generals and debrief them, but I have extra time to get things in order. I am new around here after all...
Irakura: Tuma?
Tuma: My Lord?
Irakura: You're new so we need to explain a few things. Marore, why don't you explain?
General Marore: There are 12 Generals and 1 High General. Currently, 4 Generals and the High General are entrenched in Dracoa. This is why Irakura presides over our meetings instead of High General Sukaru. 2 more Generals were sent as reinforcements some time ago, and 2 Generals are watching over the battle at sea. Here, in Norea, there are 4 Generals. Yourself, Generals Hanzo and Gozen, and myself.
Tuma: I see...
General Gozen: I'm glad that a General for the Kachyu Clan is still here, instead of Hanzo replacing you. Don't get me wrong, Hanzo is a great General. It's just that, in my experience, the Kachyu samurai are among the fiercest of fighters when properly motivated.
Tuma: Indeed they are! You'll get to see some of that ferocity during the Grand Tournament!
Scene 5 [Moresuke]
Sparrow: It's been forever, Gramps!
Gramps-Sensei: Yeah. You only ever visit me when you need something from me.
Sparrow: Oh...
Gramps: So what is it this time?
Sparrow: I need a fencing partner. I'm a participant in the Grand Tournament!
Gramps: Wow, the Grand Tournament, eh? That's big stuff.
Sparrow: But that's only half of it. Atsura's captured. I'm going to try and use the Tournament as a front to rescue Atsura.
Gramps: I'll help your fencing, but you need to remember the most important thing: never go alone. You need the support of friends if you ever hope to accomplish anything.
Sparrow: Atsura may have been capture because I forgot that...
Gramps: Remember when you first showed up here, over a year ago?
Sparrow: Yeah.
Scene 6 [Moresuke, 1 year ago]
[Enter Sparrow]
Sparrow: Hi there! I'm Sparrow.
Gramps: Whaddya want?
Sparrow: How do you feel about our Prince, Irakura?
Gramps: Don't care. But I hear the Mayor has a grudge against him.
Sparrow: Perfect! Where's Town Hall? I need to speak with that man!
A Quick Look At ~ Gramps-Sensei
Gramps' children both died during the civil war. After that, he stopped caring about the state of the world, and quietly retired to Moresuke. When he met Sparrow, he was shocked because of a resemblance to his grand daughter. He took interest in her plight, and taught her that she should always keep her friends close. Apparently, he is an expert swordsman.
Next time, learn the story of Sparrow's arrival in Moresuke! There's a guy called Burei, and what's more, he's a member of the Kuzaya! How will Sparrow deal with such a dangerous enemy?
July 3, 2012
Chapter 13
A/N: Welcome to Volume 2! It's not much of a kickoff, but this chapter is brand new.
Chapter 13 - Sanyuta's Challenge!! The Grand Tournament!!
How Things Work: The Grand Tournament
A/N: I actually don't have this all written yet. ;^.^ Sorry! I will be filling it in later though. Under Construction~
The Grand Tournament is a sort of olympics held once a year (war barring) to foster friendship and competition among the 12 Clans.
Act 1, Scene 1 [ Floor 7]
Atsura: Why are we still alive?
Koraga: I don't know. Normally, escapees are executed.
Guard: Shaddup!
Scene 2 [Floor 9]
Sparrow: Why am I still alive?
Sanyuta: Because, you were too easy to defeat. I want a rematch with the Sparrow who almost killed me.
Sparrow: Why?
Sanyuta: So I can prove to myself that I've finally defeated you! You have one week!
Sparrow: What?!
Sanyuta: My father and bepo are holding a competition between the 12 Clans in one week. I can arrange it so that you represent the Buuda Clan. You have one week to assemble your team and prepare for the competition.
Sparrow: I don't even know what kind of competition it is! Why should I even participate?
Sanyuta: The categories are Chisazu, fencing, multiple weapon duel, archery, and a speed obstacle course. I will be there with my own team, representing the Kachyu Clan. If you refuse to participate, I'll execute you and your friends right here, and right now.
Sparrow: I see. Alright. I agree. So me and my friends are free?
Sanyuta: I will keep your friends as insurance. You are free to leave whenever you wish, now that Lord Irakura is gone.
Sparrow: What?! He's gone?!
Sanyuta: He left just a few minutes ago.
Scene 3 [Outside Kachigoru]
Sparrow: If I spend 3 days walking back to Moresuke, and 3 days walking back, I'll only have one day to get a group together and prepare myself... I need a faster way to get home.
Eji: Alright crew! We'll be passing by Kachigoru, on account of their having just had a war! Prepare the caravan!
Sparrow: Deus ex machina?
Scene 4 [Eji's Caravan]
Sparrow: Thank you for the lift, Eji.
Eji: No problemo~! It's my habit to make new friends. So where are ya from, and where am I taking you?
Sparow: Moresuke. Most people haven't ever heard of it. It's near-
Eji: I know exactly where it is! I've been everywhere in Norea, you know. Even the Necropolis, Arakunea.
Sparrow: Oh, wow.
Eji: Your hair is very beautiful. That red is so unique! I've only ever seen similar on the head of Jikasu!
Sparrow: The infamous terrorist?!
Eji: Of course! Nobody knows about Jikasu, the butterfly tamer.
Sparrow; Who??
Eji: Exactly! Nobody knows.
[Aside] Sparrow: I've never been able to find a trace of my father... there's no way my father could be a guy like that...
Eji: Well, you'd better get some rest! We'll be clost to Moresuke in the morning.
Act 2, Scene 1 [Moresuke]
Sparrow: Thank you, Eji.
Eji: No problem! If you ever need to get a hold of me, my show's normally performing outside Rayuchi!
Scene 2 [Moresuke Town Hall]
[Enter Sparrow]
Mayor Jakirusa: Sparrow! You're back!
Jyakuge: We didn't expect you back for another week at least! We thought you'd be longer.
Sparrow: Well, I'm back early. And boy have I got a story for you...
Scene 3 [Moresuke Plaza]
Sparrow: So I need people to participate in the Tournament with me. I want Yu Yan to be my archer.
Jyakuge: I wanna fence! I can fence.
Sparrow: I'm fencing.
Jyakuge: Then I can do the obstacle course. I'll settle for the obstacle course.
Sparrow: All right! Koiki can you do the duel?
Koiki: Yeah. They didn't call me the Massacre Major for nothing.
Sparrow: Good. I'll ask Atana-Sensei to play Chisazu. It's really time to go practice now. This is important. Our friends are counting on us.
A Quick Look At ~ Koiki
Koiki is a former military man. He fought in Dracoa and became known as the Massacre Major. He became disillusioned with the military, and, after he returned from his tour of duty, the government. He put his skills to use as an enforcer in the Ameyura, and, after Sparrow took over from Atsura and they changed goals, he found the Ameyura still to his liking.
Come back next time to find out the story of Sparrow's arrival in Moresuke! Who is the Gramps-Sensei?!
Chapter 13 - Sanyuta's Challenge!! The Grand Tournament!!
How Things Work: The Grand Tournament
A/N: I actually don't have this all written yet. ;^.^ Sorry! I will be filling it in later though. Under Construction~
The Grand Tournament is a sort of olympics held once a year (war barring) to foster friendship and competition among the 12 Clans.
Act 1, Scene 1 [ Floor 7]
Atsura: Why are we still alive?
Koraga: I don't know. Normally, escapees are executed.
Guard: Shaddup!
Scene 2 [Floor 9]
Sparrow: Why am I still alive?
Sanyuta: Because, you were too easy to defeat. I want a rematch with the Sparrow who almost killed me.
Sparrow: Why?
Sanyuta: So I can prove to myself that I've finally defeated you! You have one week!
Sparrow: What?!
Sanyuta: My father and bepo are holding a competition between the 12 Clans in one week. I can arrange it so that you represent the Buuda Clan. You have one week to assemble your team and prepare for the competition.
Sparrow: I don't even know what kind of competition it is! Why should I even participate?
Sanyuta: The categories are Chisazu, fencing, multiple weapon duel, archery, and a speed obstacle course. I will be there with my own team, representing the Kachyu Clan. If you refuse to participate, I'll execute you and your friends right here, and right now.
Sparrow: I see. Alright. I agree. So me and my friends are free?
Sanyuta: I will keep your friends as insurance. You are free to leave whenever you wish, now that Lord Irakura is gone.
Sparrow: What?! He's gone?!
Sanyuta: He left just a few minutes ago.
Scene 3 [Outside Kachigoru]
Sparrow: If I spend 3 days walking back to Moresuke, and 3 days walking back, I'll only have one day to get a group together and prepare myself... I need a faster way to get home.
Eji: Alright crew! We'll be passing by Kachigoru, on account of their having just had a war! Prepare the caravan!
Sparrow: Deus ex machina?
Scene 4 [Eji's Caravan]
Sparrow: Thank you for the lift, Eji.
Eji: No problemo~! It's my habit to make new friends. So where are ya from, and where am I taking you?
Sparow: Moresuke. Most people haven't ever heard of it. It's near-
Eji: I know exactly where it is! I've been everywhere in Norea, you know. Even the Necropolis, Arakunea.
Sparrow: Oh, wow.
Eji: Your hair is very beautiful. That red is so unique! I've only ever seen similar on the head of Jikasu!
Sparrow: The infamous terrorist?!
Eji: Of course! Nobody knows about Jikasu, the butterfly tamer.
Sparrow; Who??
Eji: Exactly! Nobody knows.
[Aside] Sparrow: I've never been able to find a trace of my father... there's no way my father could be a guy like that...
Eji: Well, you'd better get some rest! We'll be clost to Moresuke in the morning.
Act 2, Scene 1 [Moresuke]
Sparrow: Thank you, Eji.
Eji: No problem! If you ever need to get a hold of me, my show's normally performing outside Rayuchi!
Scene 2 [Moresuke Town Hall]
[Enter Sparrow]
Mayor Jakirusa: Sparrow! You're back!
Jyakuge: We didn't expect you back for another week at least! We thought you'd be longer.
Sparrow: Well, I'm back early. And boy have I got a story for you...
Scene 3 [Moresuke Plaza]
Sparrow: So I need people to participate in the Tournament with me. I want Yu Yan to be my archer.
Jyakuge: I wanna fence! I can fence.
Sparrow: I'm fencing.
Jyakuge: Then I can do the obstacle course. I'll settle for the obstacle course.
Sparrow: All right! Koiki can you do the duel?
Koiki: Yeah. They didn't call me the Massacre Major for nothing.
Sparrow: Good. I'll ask Atana-Sensei to play Chisazu. It's really time to go practice now. This is important. Our friends are counting on us.
A Quick Look At ~ Koiki
Koiki is a former military man. He fought in Dracoa and became known as the Massacre Major. He became disillusioned with the military, and, after he returned from his tour of duty, the government. He put his skills to use as an enforcer in the Ameyura, and, after Sparrow took over from Atsura and they changed goals, he found the Ameyura still to his liking.
Come back next time to find out the story of Sparrow's arrival in Moresuke! Who is the Gramps-Sensei?!
Midnight Violas
A small spoon is enough to scoop out happiness
There’s just the question of if there are people
that can share it
I haven’t given up on the hope that we will meet again
I made a promise to the people who sleep with
stardust in their beds
The song of midnight shouted out
The truth is, I hate being alone, and not
knowing whether you’ll keep on being alone
~Aqua Timez
These midnight instruments are all parts of one large Midnight Orchestra, which is a beautiful and heart-touching song. The lyrics have so much meaning.
There’s just the question of if there are people
that can share it
I haven’t given up on the hope that we will meet again
I made a promise to the people who sleep with
stardust in their beds
The song of midnight shouted out
The truth is, I hate being alone, and not
knowing whether you’ll keep on being alone
~Aqua Timez
These midnight instruments are all parts of one large Midnight Orchestra, which is a beautiful and heart-touching song. The lyrics have so much meaning.
July 2, 2012
Volume 1
A/N: I thought that it would be fun to package up Volume 1 in one post, and to sort of give a little summary of each chapter, and the volume as a whole. I hope you enjoyed the Rewrite as much as I did!
Volume 1: Family Reunions in Kachigoru!!
Several families find themselves reuninted within the city of Kachigoru! Koraga serves as a father to two dynamically different people - the Ameyura leader, Sparrow, and the Prince, Irakura! These two siblings can only be described as disfunctional! Meanwhile, Sanyuta, the heroic samurai of the repressed Kachyu Clan, reunites with his father, the Clanhead, Tuma, after a long term of service in the military. Together, this father-son duo can save their Clan from the hatred of their sister Clan, the Kayuchi! Wait, what's this?! This rift is also caused by family matters?! It turns out a mother named Jin is at the heart of this!
Chapter 1 - Genesis, the First
Welcome to the land of Norea! Sad times prevail as the cynical Prince Irakura overthrows his father, King Kumara, in a coup d'etah! Prince Irakura believes the people are evil at heart, while rebels rise up against him, only to be crushed...
Chapter 2 - Genesis, the Second
The Court of Nobles is not united! Noble Datte, of the Kayuchi, hates the Kachyu! But soon he'll lose his role as the Kachyu's representative, because Irakura senses this problem and is trying to cut it off! Datte must stop him and keep his power!
Chapter 3 - Deception
Sparrow steps onto the scene! Datte is setting up Sanyuta by using Noble Pachi's mining proposal?! Sparrow promises to lead the Ameyura to victory and save the innocent villagers who are being forced from their homes by this mining proposal!
Chapter 4 - Heroes!!
Sparrow, Atsura, Jyakuge, and the rest of the Ameyura have arrived to save the villagers of Aka and Meda! But General Sanyuta is a veritable monster! Sparrow faces off with his second in command, Major Maji! Just when things seem lost to Jyakuge, Sparrow arrives and the clash begins in earnest!
Chapter 5 - Clash!!
Jyakuge is certain Sparrow cannot win, while Atsura knows that she must! The fate of the villagers hangs in the balance as these two leaders battle! If Sanyuta wins, the Ameyura and their dream is at an end! But if Sparrow wins, the people will be set free!
Chapter 6 - Norean History Lessons: The Kachyu Clan
All about the Kachyu! Learn more about this Noble Clan, which has existed for over 200 years! This Clan had a mythical beginning when a group of people banded together to slay and ogre! Since then, they've been sticking together, to the point of excluding foreigners!
Chapter 7 - Two Different Children (Or, Remembrance)
Sparrow's origin! It turns out that the father Sparrow still doesn't know anything about is the legendary anarchist, Jikasu! Irakura was the one who found him as a child?! Sparrow was then raised by the man who raised Irakura at the palace, Koraga?!
Chapter 8 - Visit to Dattegoru!! Who is the Monkey Man?!
Prince Irakura learns of recent events! Datte leaves to find the newly chosen Kachyu Noble, and Sparrow heads to the same place - Dattegoru! - with her companion who looks suspiciously like a monkey man! A reunion with her father ensues.
Chapter 9 - Tuma and Datte - The Grudge
Tuma is the Kachyu General, and Noble! Koraga wishes to give Sparrow his last words?! The reason for the animosity between Tuma and Datte is revealed! It's a woman! Meanwhile, war rages in the streets as the Kachyu rise up against the Kayuchi!
Chapter 10 - Last Words
Datte names his successor, a soldier boy named Bepo! Meanwhile, Koraga entrusts the dream of his heart to Sparrow, who swears she will stop her 'brother' Irakura! Despite being drawn into the battle, Sparrow helps resolve it by convincing others to abandon Datte! After a duel with Tuma comes the death of Datte!
Chapter 11 - Armistice!! Kachigoru City!!
The city of Dattegoru is no more! In its place stands Kachigoru, a shining symbol of unity between the Clans of the Kachyu and the Kayuchi! The two new Nobles give their inaugral speeches, and promise to work together for a brighter future! Then, Koraga is arrested by his 'son', Irakura!
Chapter 12 - Infiltrate!! The Citadel Sunrise Challenge!!
Sparrow and Atsura break into the Kachigoru Town Hall! Their goal is to rescue Koraga, and slay Irakura. After a long night, Atsura leaves with Koraga while Sparrow goes on alone. Who does she find, but Sanyuta! Shocked, and injured, Sparrow is soon after beaten. The mission failed?!
Volume 1: Family Reunions in Kachigoru!!
Several families find themselves reuninted within the city of Kachigoru! Koraga serves as a father to two dynamically different people - the Ameyura leader, Sparrow, and the Prince, Irakura! These two siblings can only be described as disfunctional! Meanwhile, Sanyuta, the heroic samurai of the repressed Kachyu Clan, reunites with his father, the Clanhead, Tuma, after a long term of service in the military. Together, this father-son duo can save their Clan from the hatred of their sister Clan, the Kayuchi! Wait, what's this?! This rift is also caused by family matters?! It turns out a mother named Jin is at the heart of this!
Chapter 1 - Genesis, the First
Welcome to the land of Norea! Sad times prevail as the cynical Prince Irakura overthrows his father, King Kumara, in a coup d'etah! Prince Irakura believes the people are evil at heart, while rebels rise up against him, only to be crushed...
Chapter 2 - Genesis, the Second
The Court of Nobles is not united! Noble Datte, of the Kayuchi, hates the Kachyu! But soon he'll lose his role as the Kachyu's representative, because Irakura senses this problem and is trying to cut it off! Datte must stop him and keep his power!
Chapter 3 - Deception
Sparrow steps onto the scene! Datte is setting up Sanyuta by using Noble Pachi's mining proposal?! Sparrow promises to lead the Ameyura to victory and save the innocent villagers who are being forced from their homes by this mining proposal!
Chapter 4 - Heroes!!
Sparrow, Atsura, Jyakuge, and the rest of the Ameyura have arrived to save the villagers of Aka and Meda! But General Sanyuta is a veritable monster! Sparrow faces off with his second in command, Major Maji! Just when things seem lost to Jyakuge, Sparrow arrives and the clash begins in earnest!
Chapter 5 - Clash!!
Jyakuge is certain Sparrow cannot win, while Atsura knows that she must! The fate of the villagers hangs in the balance as these two leaders battle! If Sanyuta wins, the Ameyura and their dream is at an end! But if Sparrow wins, the people will be set free!
Chapter 6 - Norean History Lessons: The Kachyu Clan
All about the Kachyu! Learn more about this Noble Clan, which has existed for over 200 years! This Clan had a mythical beginning when a group of people banded together to slay and ogre! Since then, they've been sticking together, to the point of excluding foreigners!
Chapter 7 - Two Different Children (Or, Remembrance)
Sparrow's origin! It turns out that the father Sparrow still doesn't know anything about is the legendary anarchist, Jikasu! Irakura was the one who found him as a child?! Sparrow was then raised by the man who raised Irakura at the palace, Koraga?!
Chapter 8 - Visit to Dattegoru!! Who is the Monkey Man?!
Prince Irakura learns of recent events! Datte leaves to find the newly chosen Kachyu Noble, and Sparrow heads to the same place - Dattegoru! - with her companion who looks suspiciously like a monkey man! A reunion with her father ensues.
Chapter 9 - Tuma and Datte - The Grudge
Tuma is the Kachyu General, and Noble! Koraga wishes to give Sparrow his last words?! The reason for the animosity between Tuma and Datte is revealed! It's a woman! Meanwhile, war rages in the streets as the Kachyu rise up against the Kayuchi!
Chapter 10 - Last Words
Datte names his successor, a soldier boy named Bepo! Meanwhile, Koraga entrusts the dream of his heart to Sparrow, who swears she will stop her 'brother' Irakura! Despite being drawn into the battle, Sparrow helps resolve it by convincing others to abandon Datte! After a duel with Tuma comes the death of Datte!
Chapter 11 - Armistice!! Kachigoru City!!
The city of Dattegoru is no more! In its place stands Kachigoru, a shining symbol of unity between the Clans of the Kachyu and the Kayuchi! The two new Nobles give their inaugral speeches, and promise to work together for a brighter future! Then, Koraga is arrested by his 'son', Irakura!
Chapter 12 - Infiltrate!! The Citadel Sunrise Challenge!!
Sparrow and Atsura break into the Kachigoru Town Hall! Their goal is to rescue Koraga, and slay Irakura. After a long night, Atsura leaves with Koraga while Sparrow goes on alone. Who does she find, but Sanyuta! Shocked, and injured, Sparrow is soon after beaten. The mission failed?!
Chapter 12
Chapter 12: Infiltrate!! The Citadel Sunrise Challenge!!
A/N: Here we go! Each volume will last 12 chapters, just like so many other things in Norea. That means that this is the last chapter of Volume 1! While not as explosive as the original, it makes more sense, and events occur differently. Like all of the Rewrite chapters, I believe that this version has more consistency and enjoyability. Whoo!
How Things Work: The 12 Generals (cont.)
Kachyu: Tuma
Romu: Gozen
Sehyara: Kizushi
Wakari: Tami
Chyosa: Jiboro
Buuda: N/A
Tuma is the General of the Kachyu Clan. He cares strongly for his Clan, above all. He never surrenders, and is very stubborn. He takes his title as a samurai very seriously. He replaced his own son as General, because of politics. His division is the 5th largest.
Gozen is the General of the Romu Clan. He's been in the military since Irakura started fighting, and was there when Rayuchi fell and Sparrow was discovered. His division is the 3rd largest, and the most skilled. He obeys Irakura's every word.
Kizushi is the General of the Sehyara Clan. The Sehyara Clan's division is the largest in Norea, and a source of pride for them. Kizushi puts his Clan above all else, and is one of the more arrogant Generals. His Clan believes in sharing all they own, including service time.
Tami is one of 2 female Generals, and is the General of the Wakari Clan, with the 2nd largest division. She's extremely tough, but tsundere (which pretty much means she's kind on the inside). Her Clan is one of the largest in Norea. She cares for her Clan more than the Prince.
Jiboro is the General of the Chyosa Clan, which has the 4th largest division. He enjoys being over people and will do anything to maintain his position. He doesn't really care about his Clan or the Prince. His Clan has been falling apart in recent years.'
Of course, Sukaru of the Romu Clan is over all of these Generals. He has no true army, and usually borrows the 1st Division (Gozen's division). He's currently stationed in Dracoa however, along with 8 of the 12 Generals. Remaining behind are Marore, Hanzo, Tuma, and Gozen.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Kachigoru Town Hall]
Atsura: Are you ready?
Sparrow: Do you have Koraga's sword?
Atsura: Yeah.
Sparrow: Then let's go!
Scene 2 [First Floor of Town Hall]
[Enter Sparrow and Atsura]
Attendant: Good evening. What is your business?
Sparow: If you know what's good for you, you won't raise the alarm.
Attendant: What?!
[Sparrow dives over the desk and graps the Attendant before he can pull the bell-rope. Atsura ties up the poor attendant.]
Atsura: There are 13 floors. Odds are Irakura will be at the top, but I have no idea where Koraga is.
Sparrow: We'll have to interrogate someone.
[Sparrow tries to interrogate the attendant, but he starts to yell as soon as the gag is removed, so Sparrow knocks him out.]
Sparrow: He's no help.
Atsura: We have to hurry, the sun will come up eventually.
Scene 3 [Floor 2]
Guard: Hey, what are you doing?!
[Sparrow stabs the guard.]
Atsura: Sparrow! What are you doing?!
Sparrow: He was gonna make too much noise!
Atsura: We don't mindlessly kill! And we need to figure out where Koraga is!
Sparrow: Alright, alright. A guard wouldn't have told us anything anyways... Let's try a few of these rooms.
Scene 4 [An Apartment on Floor 2]
[Enter Sparrow and Atsura]
Sparrow: Good evening, madame. I have a couple of questions for you.
Madame: I will tell you nothing, you ruffians! Get out!
Sparrow: What pretty jewelry.. whoops! There goes your bracelet. Maybe, if you're lucky, you'll find it in the morning.
Madame: Alright, alright! Just don't do that anymore!
Scene 5 [Floor 4]
Sparrow: Koraga is 3 floors above us, and Irakura is 2 more.
Atsura: Time's running out, Sparrow.
Sparrow: We're gonna make it.
Scene 6 [6th Floor]
Atsura: I'm surprised there are so few guards...
Sparrrow: Don't worry, I'm sure there'll be some more next floor. Remember, they just went through a civil war. There aren't that many soldiers left in Norea anyways, after the second draft for the war in Dracoa.
Atsura: It's been easy so far. This is when we really start to risk our lives.
Act 2, Scene 1 [7th Floor]
[There are numerous bodies on the ground. Sparrow and Atsura are both injured heavily. They release Koraga.]
Koraga: What are you doing here?!
Sparrow: I'm rescuing you! Get outside, with Atsura.
Atsura: We're supposed to go together, Sparrow.
Sparrow: I changed my mind. I have to do this alone.
Atsura: But you're hurt!
Sparrow: Atsura! Am I in charge or not?! Listen to me!
Atsura: I hate this... but alright. Go.
Sparrow: It'll be okay. Meet you below.
Scene 2 [9th Floor]
Sparrow: No... you're dead! I killed you!
Sanyuta: You left me to die, but I survived! I'm stronger than before, and this battlefield is to my advantage.
Sparrow: I just want Irakura! Please, step aside! Please...!
Sanyuta: If you win, I'll step aside.
[Sparrow charges towards Sanyuta, who blocks her attack, and snaps her sword.]
Sparrow: No...
Sanyuta: This was... too easy. Unfulfilling.
Scene 3 [Kachigoru Town Hall]
Atsura: Where's Sparrow?
[Enter Sanyuta and a subdued Sparrow, with other samurai.]
Sanyuta: She's right here! Samurai, take them!
Koraga: Sparrow failed.
A Quick Look At ~ Irakura's Plan
Irakura was very displeased with Noble Datte, and had noticed how power hungry he was. Rather than deal with him overtly and also end up having to replace General Hanzo, he decided to manipulate things to bring down Datte naturally. He lied to Datte so that when he found out the truth, his reaction would be more extreme and reveal his true intentions. He set up the confrontation between Tuma and Datte, then allowed Hanzo to return to Datte's side only after Datte had been weakened and Hanzo was no longer certain to support him. He allowed the Kachyu to take control of Dattegoru as best they could, and then entered to take control of the situation. His plan brilliantly succeeded, with the tensions between the Kachyu and Kayuchi resolved, as well as having gotten rid of Datte, and having chosen 2 new Nobles and a General.
Unbelieveable! Sparrow has lost?! Will Atsura and Koraga pay the price? Find out next time! And what's up with Sanyuta's feelings??
A/N: Here we go! Each volume will last 12 chapters, just like so many other things in Norea. That means that this is the last chapter of Volume 1! While not as explosive as the original, it makes more sense, and events occur differently. Like all of the Rewrite chapters, I believe that this version has more consistency and enjoyability. Whoo!
How Things Work: The 12 Generals (cont.)
Kachyu: Tuma
Romu: Gozen
Sehyara: Kizushi
Wakari: Tami
Chyosa: Jiboro
Buuda: N/A
Tuma is the General of the Kachyu Clan. He cares strongly for his Clan, above all. He never surrenders, and is very stubborn. He takes his title as a samurai very seriously. He replaced his own son as General, because of politics. His division is the 5th largest.
Gozen is the General of the Romu Clan. He's been in the military since Irakura started fighting, and was there when Rayuchi fell and Sparrow was discovered. His division is the 3rd largest, and the most skilled. He obeys Irakura's every word.
Kizushi is the General of the Sehyara Clan. The Sehyara Clan's division is the largest in Norea, and a source of pride for them. Kizushi puts his Clan above all else, and is one of the more arrogant Generals. His Clan believes in sharing all they own, including service time.
Tami is one of 2 female Generals, and is the General of the Wakari Clan, with the 2nd largest division. She's extremely tough, but tsundere (which pretty much means she's kind on the inside). Her Clan is one of the largest in Norea. She cares for her Clan more than the Prince.
Jiboro is the General of the Chyosa Clan, which has the 4th largest division. He enjoys being over people and will do anything to maintain his position. He doesn't really care about his Clan or the Prince. His Clan has been falling apart in recent years.'
Of course, Sukaru of the Romu Clan is over all of these Generals. He has no true army, and usually borrows the 1st Division (Gozen's division). He's currently stationed in Dracoa however, along with 8 of the 12 Generals. Remaining behind are Marore, Hanzo, Tuma, and Gozen.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Kachigoru Town Hall]
Atsura: Are you ready?
Sparrow: Do you have Koraga's sword?
Atsura: Yeah.
Sparrow: Then let's go!
Scene 2 [First Floor of Town Hall]
[Enter Sparrow and Atsura]
Attendant: Good evening. What is your business?
Sparow: If you know what's good for you, you won't raise the alarm.
Attendant: What?!
[Sparrow dives over the desk and graps the Attendant before he can pull the bell-rope. Atsura ties up the poor attendant.]
Atsura: There are 13 floors. Odds are Irakura will be at the top, but I have no idea where Koraga is.
Sparrow: We'll have to interrogate someone.
[Sparrow tries to interrogate the attendant, but he starts to yell as soon as the gag is removed, so Sparrow knocks him out.]
Sparrow: He's no help.
Atsura: We have to hurry, the sun will come up eventually.
Scene 3 [Floor 2]
Guard: Hey, what are you doing?!
[Sparrow stabs the guard.]
Atsura: Sparrow! What are you doing?!
Sparrow: He was gonna make too much noise!
Atsura: We don't mindlessly kill! And we need to figure out where Koraga is!
Sparrow: Alright, alright. A guard wouldn't have told us anything anyways... Let's try a few of these rooms.
Scene 4 [An Apartment on Floor 2]
[Enter Sparrow and Atsura]
Sparrow: Good evening, madame. I have a couple of questions for you.
Madame: I will tell you nothing, you ruffians! Get out!
Sparrow: What pretty jewelry.. whoops! There goes your bracelet. Maybe, if you're lucky, you'll find it in the morning.
Madame: Alright, alright! Just don't do that anymore!
Scene 5 [Floor 4]
Sparrow: Koraga is 3 floors above us, and Irakura is 2 more.
Atsura: Time's running out, Sparrow.
Sparrow: We're gonna make it.
Scene 6 [6th Floor]
Atsura: I'm surprised there are so few guards...
Sparrrow: Don't worry, I'm sure there'll be some more next floor. Remember, they just went through a civil war. There aren't that many soldiers left in Norea anyways, after the second draft for the war in Dracoa.
Atsura: It's been easy so far. This is when we really start to risk our lives.
Act 2, Scene 1 [7th Floor]
[There are numerous bodies on the ground. Sparrow and Atsura are both injured heavily. They release Koraga.]
Koraga: What are you doing here?!
Sparrow: I'm rescuing you! Get outside, with Atsura.
Atsura: We're supposed to go together, Sparrow.
Sparrow: I changed my mind. I have to do this alone.
Atsura: But you're hurt!
Sparrow: Atsura! Am I in charge or not?! Listen to me!
Atsura: I hate this... but alright. Go.
Sparrow: It'll be okay. Meet you below.
Scene 2 [9th Floor]
Sparrow: No... you're dead! I killed you!
Sanyuta: You left me to die, but I survived! I'm stronger than before, and this battlefield is to my advantage.
Sparrow: I just want Irakura! Please, step aside! Please...!
Sanyuta: If you win, I'll step aside.
[Sparrow charges towards Sanyuta, who blocks her attack, and snaps her sword.]
Sparrow: No...
Sanyuta: This was... too easy. Unfulfilling.
Scene 3 [Kachigoru Town Hall]
Atsura: Where's Sparrow?
[Enter Sanyuta and a subdued Sparrow, with other samurai.]
Sanyuta: She's right here! Samurai, take them!
Koraga: Sparrow failed.
A Quick Look At ~ Irakura's Plan
Irakura was very displeased with Noble Datte, and had noticed how power hungry he was. Rather than deal with him overtly and also end up having to replace General Hanzo, he decided to manipulate things to bring down Datte naturally. He lied to Datte so that when he found out the truth, his reaction would be more extreme and reveal his true intentions. He set up the confrontation between Tuma and Datte, then allowed Hanzo to return to Datte's side only after Datte had been weakened and Hanzo was no longer certain to support him. He allowed the Kachyu to take control of Dattegoru as best they could, and then entered to take control of the situation. His plan brilliantly succeeded, with the tensions between the Kachyu and Kayuchi resolved, as well as having gotten rid of Datte, and having chosen 2 new Nobles and a General.
Unbelieveable! Sparrow has lost?! Will Atsura and Koraga pay the price? Find out next time! And what's up with Sanyuta's feelings??
July 1, 2012
Chapter 11
Chapter 11 - Armistice!! Kachigoru City!!
A/N: For this segment of "How Things Work" I'll only be listing six of the 12 Generals, then the next six in the second part.
How Things Work: The 12 Generals
Clan: Manashya. General: Marore.
Sakuna: Nasube.
Pouza: Han.
Orochi: Manda.
Napishya: Papaka.
Kayuchi: Hanzo.
Marore is the General of the Manashya Clan. The Manashya Clan has the 9th largest division. She was once married to Manda, but has since fallen out with him. She is a good strategist like all the Generals, and is caring. She is a bit naive, but learning. She is loyal to her Clan and to her Prince.
Nasube is the Sakuna Clan's General. The Sakuna Clan has the 6th largest division. Nasube is loyal to the Prince above his Claan. He tends to follow Gozen's example and most often acts in a supporting role for him. This traces back to the Sakuna and Romu Clan's closeness.
Han is the General of the Pouza Clan. The Pouza Clan possesses the 10th largest army. He believes an army travels on it's stomach, and is always well equipped. He supports his Clan and Prince. Because of his division's relative small-ness, his divisions role is to store equipment and equip other divisions.
Manda is the General of the Orochi Clan. He is a tactical genius, moreso than the other Generals. He is disliked by Marore, because she believes he led their son to his death. He is loyal more to the Prince than to his Clan. His Clan has the 7th largest division.
Papaka is the Napishya Clan's General. He is disrespectful towards the other Generals, and is arrogant. He supports himself above everything, including his Clan. His arrogance is founded in several military successes and his military smarts. His division is the 11th largest, ironically.
Hanzo is the General of the Kayuchi Clan. He supports his Clan above his Prince, and will even betray other Generals. He is cordial towards all though. He isn't the brightest of the Generals, but he fights well. His division is the 8th largest. He helped Datte kill Noble Meruchi, and discredit the Kachyu and Sanyuta.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Koraga's Home]
Atsura: How strange, that everything should happen like this...
Koraga: It's no coincidence. Everything hinges on Irakura's arrival today.
Sparrow: Iakura told Datte that Tuma was coming to Romunemu* for his inaugration.
Atsura: Yeah, but he was actually staying here, and Irakura was coming here.
Koraga: That was to get Datte to reveal his intentions.
Sparrow: Now, Irakura can appoint 2 new Nobles, and resolve the situation with Tuma and take care of the tension between the Kachyu and Kayuchi.
Atsura: And also bring Koraga with him back to the Capitol.
Scene 2 [Dattegoru Town Hall]
Noble Tuma: Are we ready for the Prince's arrival?
Eruda: Yes.
[Enter Irakura, Hebimaru, and his 7 Guards.]
Prince Irakura: Tuma, my friend. How are you?
Tuma: I am well, my Lord. And yourself?
Irakura: happy to meet my second newest Noble.
Tuma: Ah yes... Bepo...
Irakura: Is that the name of Datte's successor? Bepo? Hm. Anyways, what will it take to restore normalcy here?
Scene 3 [Outside Town Hall]
Irakura: People! I have news for you! In honor of the Kachyu, and their unrecognized contributions to this city, I declare it's name be changed to Kachigoru! Also, I present your new Nobles, of the Kachyu and Kayuchi! Tuma and Bepo! Tma is also the General of the Kachyu Clan! I would like to give each of these new officials a moment to speak to you.
Tuma: It is time for us to move past the emnity that has existed between our Clans! I respect the Kayuchi, and I hope to grow closer to you all. Together, our Clans can become mighty and we can build a brighter future, a brighter Kachigoru! I look forward to working with Noble Bepo, of the Kayuchi!!!
Noble Bepo: A day ago, I was just another soldier. I don't know why Datte picked me... I think it was because I spoke to him... I followed orders. And I intend to keep following them. The difference is, you, the people, are the ones giving me the orders! I am here to serve you, and I'll do my best! With Tuma, I'm sure we can repair the relationship between our Clans!
Irakura: Isn't that just beautiful? These two leaders promise to be some of the best Nobles in my Court. It's time for the Kachyu and Kayuchi to become one in heart. It's time for all of Norea to become one!
Act 2, Scene 1 [Koraga's Home]
[Enter Irakura, his 7 Guards, and Hebimaru.]
Koraga: And the prodigal son returns...
Irakura I'm sorry about all of this. But your writing is treasonous, and only helps the darkness fester.
Koraga: You often spoke of that... the 'darkness in the peoples' hearts.'
Irakura: It's only grown worse since then.
Koraga: Maybe you can't stop it with swords.
Irakura: Enough! Guards, bring Koraga to the Town Hall.
Koraga: These Guards are new.
Irakura: They're a new necessity. I don't want to end up like Chiosamaru, assassinated by rebels.
Koraga: You can still change, and be a ruler everyone will love! Conquer the darkness in your heart!
Hebimaru: My Lord, you need not lizten to thiz! Guardz, take him away!
[Exit Guards and Koraga]
Irakura: I created my own worst enemy... I brought Sparrow to Koraga... if only I had known the future...
Hebimaru: My Lord?
Irakura: Prepare my chamgers. Tomorrow, we are leaving. But tonight, I wish to rest.
Hebimaru: Yez, my lord.
Scene 2 [Street]
Atsura: The rumor is that Koraga's being held in Town Hall.
Sparrow: That's odd.
Atsura: That's where Irakura is staying as well.
Sparrow: We could kill Irakura and save Koraga in one fell swoop!
Atsura: It won't be easy. The Town Hall is like Arakunea's Citadel, a fortress tower. Irakura will no doubt be at the top.
Sparrow: Then that's where we'll go!
A Brief Interview With ~ Sanyuta
Q: How are you?
A: I'm fantastic, now that I'm all healed up!
Q: What is your job?
A: I used to be the General of the 9th Division, but now I'm just a plot element.
Q: Did you lose that position after your embarassing defeat?
A: ...I am still worthy of it, but I hear that it was after that defeat that I was let go of. No doubt because of that fool Datte!
Q: What do you think of your replacement?
A: It's my father! I love that guy!
Q: What will you do know?
A: Hunt down Sparrow and make him pay!
Q: Have you heard that he was spotted here in Dattegoru?
A: What?! If he's here, then I have to catch him and have my rematch!
~Good luck with that!~
*A/N: Remember, Romunemu is the Capitol! Romunemu is obviously based on "Rome."
A/N: For this segment of "How Things Work" I'll only be listing six of the 12 Generals, then the next six in the second part.
How Things Work: The 12 Generals
Clan: Manashya. General: Marore.
Sakuna: Nasube.
Pouza: Han.
Orochi: Manda.
Napishya: Papaka.
Kayuchi: Hanzo.
Marore is the General of the Manashya Clan. The Manashya Clan has the 9th largest division. She was once married to Manda, but has since fallen out with him. She is a good strategist like all the Generals, and is caring. She is a bit naive, but learning. She is loyal to her Clan and to her Prince.
Nasube is the Sakuna Clan's General. The Sakuna Clan has the 6th largest division. Nasube is loyal to the Prince above his Claan. He tends to follow Gozen's example and most often acts in a supporting role for him. This traces back to the Sakuna and Romu Clan's closeness.
Han is the General of the Pouza Clan. The Pouza Clan possesses the 10th largest army. He believes an army travels on it's stomach, and is always well equipped. He supports his Clan and Prince. Because of his division's relative small-ness, his divisions role is to store equipment and equip other divisions.
Manda is the General of the Orochi Clan. He is a tactical genius, moreso than the other Generals. He is disliked by Marore, because she believes he led their son to his death. He is loyal more to the Prince than to his Clan. His Clan has the 7th largest division.
Papaka is the Napishya Clan's General. He is disrespectful towards the other Generals, and is arrogant. He supports himself above everything, including his Clan. His arrogance is founded in several military successes and his military smarts. His division is the 11th largest, ironically.
Hanzo is the General of the Kayuchi Clan. He supports his Clan above his Prince, and will even betray other Generals. He is cordial towards all though. He isn't the brightest of the Generals, but he fights well. His division is the 8th largest. He helped Datte kill Noble Meruchi, and discredit the Kachyu and Sanyuta.
Act 1, Scene 1 [Koraga's Home]
Atsura: How strange, that everything should happen like this...
Koraga: It's no coincidence. Everything hinges on Irakura's arrival today.
Sparrow: Iakura told Datte that Tuma was coming to Romunemu* for his inaugration.
Atsura: Yeah, but he was actually staying here, and Irakura was coming here.
Koraga: That was to get Datte to reveal his intentions.
Sparrow: Now, Irakura can appoint 2 new Nobles, and resolve the situation with Tuma and take care of the tension between the Kachyu and Kayuchi.
Atsura: And also bring Koraga with him back to the Capitol.
Scene 2 [Dattegoru Town Hall]
Noble Tuma: Are we ready for the Prince's arrival?
Eruda: Yes.
[Enter Irakura, Hebimaru, and his 7 Guards.]
Prince Irakura: Tuma, my friend. How are you?
Tuma: I am well, my Lord. And yourself?
Irakura: happy to meet my second newest Noble.
Tuma: Ah yes... Bepo...
Irakura: Is that the name of Datte's successor? Bepo? Hm. Anyways, what will it take to restore normalcy here?
Scene 3 [Outside Town Hall]
Irakura: People! I have news for you! In honor of the Kachyu, and their unrecognized contributions to this city, I declare it's name be changed to Kachigoru! Also, I present your new Nobles, of the Kachyu and Kayuchi! Tuma and Bepo! Tma is also the General of the Kachyu Clan! I would like to give each of these new officials a moment to speak to you.
Tuma: It is time for us to move past the emnity that has existed between our Clans! I respect the Kayuchi, and I hope to grow closer to you all. Together, our Clans can become mighty and we can build a brighter future, a brighter Kachigoru! I look forward to working with Noble Bepo, of the Kayuchi!!!
Noble Bepo: A day ago, I was just another soldier. I don't know why Datte picked me... I think it was because I spoke to him... I followed orders. And I intend to keep following them. The difference is, you, the people, are the ones giving me the orders! I am here to serve you, and I'll do my best! With Tuma, I'm sure we can repair the relationship between our Clans!
Irakura: Isn't that just beautiful? These two leaders promise to be some of the best Nobles in my Court. It's time for the Kachyu and Kayuchi to become one in heart. It's time for all of Norea to become one!
Act 2, Scene 1 [Koraga's Home]
[Enter Irakura, his 7 Guards, and Hebimaru.]
Koraga: And the prodigal son returns...
Irakura I'm sorry about all of this. But your writing is treasonous, and only helps the darkness fester.
Koraga: You often spoke of that... the 'darkness in the peoples' hearts.'
Irakura: It's only grown worse since then.
Koraga: Maybe you can't stop it with swords.
Irakura: Enough! Guards, bring Koraga to the Town Hall.
Koraga: These Guards are new.
Irakura: They're a new necessity. I don't want to end up like Chiosamaru, assassinated by rebels.
Koraga: You can still change, and be a ruler everyone will love! Conquer the darkness in your heart!
Hebimaru: My Lord, you need not lizten to thiz! Guardz, take him away!
[Exit Guards and Koraga]
Irakura: I created my own worst enemy... I brought Sparrow to Koraga... if only I had known the future...
Hebimaru: My Lord?
Irakura: Prepare my chamgers. Tomorrow, we are leaving. But tonight, I wish to rest.
Hebimaru: Yez, my lord.
Scene 2 [Street]
Atsura: The rumor is that Koraga's being held in Town Hall.
Sparrow: That's odd.
Atsura: That's where Irakura is staying as well.
Sparrow: We could kill Irakura and save Koraga in one fell swoop!
Atsura: It won't be easy. The Town Hall is like Arakunea's Citadel, a fortress tower. Irakura will no doubt be at the top.
Sparrow: Then that's where we'll go!
A Brief Interview With ~ Sanyuta
Q: How are you?
A: I'm fantastic, now that I'm all healed up!
Q: What is your job?
A: I used to be the General of the 9th Division, but now I'm just a plot element.
Q: Did you lose that position after your embarassing defeat?
A: ...I am still worthy of it, but I hear that it was after that defeat that I was let go of. No doubt because of that fool Datte!
Q: What do you think of your replacement?
A: It's my father! I love that guy!
Q: What will you do know?
A: Hunt down Sparrow and make him pay!
Q: Have you heard that he was spotted here in Dattegoru?
A: What?! If he's here, then I have to catch him and have my rematch!
~Good luck with that!~
*A/N: Remember, Romunemu is the Capitol! Romunemu is obviously based on "Rome."
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