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@Members @VIP - Just an FYI we've removed the necro bumping rule from the site (please let me know if there are still remnants anywhere!) We no longer feel the rule is necessary across the site, spam rules will still apply though.

NCM (nearly) a Year On I think I speak for everyone in saying that it’s certainly been an interesting year, from what feels like unending down time to what now feels like a new lease of life, communities are born and bred by people alone and you can’t force something to stick together when the cracks have already shown, and I think we’ve showcased that now more than ever, you’ll just continue to stick things back together as best you can in hopes that it will remain but, sometimes in life you need to move on and build something new up and that’s OK, nothing lasts forever but everything worthwhile only lasts for a period of time, and whenever this comes to an end I can only hope it inspires someone to pick up the mantle where it left off. That got a little… philosophical didn’t it? My fault, apologies, I just wanted to open a document and write down my thoughts and feelings with you all – bare bones you know how that stuff goes anyhow I think it’s important to reflect on how we’re doing and where we can go from here. So, how are we doing? That’s a great question and thanks for asking Torm! Fundamentally the site is stable, and activity is at an appropriate level, people are posting, RPs are… RPing? I guess you do roleplay in a roleplay so… ANYWAY things are good! There are some sections that have very little to no activity and I guess that’s something for me and the staff team to figure out together. I imagine it’ll be along the lines of consolidating “deader” sections together and making posts simpler to post but we’ll work on that. In fact, at the time of writing this we are roughly averaging 20 registrations per month, which are healthy numbers! It’s also probably a little more but I’m terrible at Math so… 20 sounds like a good enough number. There has been some considerable content committed to the site by many of our great users. I won’t go through all of them because honestly, I’ll be here all day and I think a couple of the staff team have ideas on events of their own accord for celebrating good content but stuff like .:Alive:. by Dad in the creative writing section, the NeoCardMaker Holy Grail War by Yui (whilst young, is a very creative take on the forum game genre) and RPs like Fire Emblem Curse of the Goddess which is so intrinsically Fire Emblem it’s great. So where can we go from here? Well personally I think I need to take on the leadership role a bit more, I just need to understand where the line is drawn with that and the like as we have a nice status quo going on and rocking the boat too much might cause us to get water on board when it isn’t necessary but I have ideas and thoughts for the site that I think will be healthy for the place. I would like to see a member of staff or two added to team at some point to help develop certain areas of the site, and perhaps cultivate new life and ideas into parts of the site but again it’s all about balance and that’s down to me to find that middle of the line, so please bear with me and provide criticism as and where it’s needed. I’ve yet to explore these ideas with Yemachu but getting the card maker more built into the site rather than relying on GitHub might allow for us to provide a better user experience for those of us who use the card maker on the regular, of course again I’m just vocalizing my internal thoughts so don’t take this as a “IT’S HAPPENING” (Yui please insert the appropriate gif in a reply thank you). It also seems the site is still struggling to send activation emails to gmail accounts… It’s something for me to look at as we are potentially missing out on active users, I’d rather publicly state this is an issue than it not be forgotten about (although I have mentioned it in the past). As for you guys? Keep doing what you’re doing. Maybe revive showcase for me I don’t have anything negative to say about the lot of you really, you’re all cute – except Cow, he’s a cow I mean they ain’t that cute maybe calves but like they don’t last very long in that state. So, thank you, for making this place what it is, and I wish you a fantastic Christmas, here’s to 2020 (we all legally have perfect vision now) ? @Members @VIP

Music So, it's been a while since we've really had a big statement put out or anything. We're almost at 2 years of NCM, and that's incredible! For a splinter community, that really stands out. All because people chose to take a chance and break away from simple numbers and the past itself. A sense of community that is more one of togetherness than obligation. I'm proud of us. Our little community. Sure, it's a quiet little corner of the internet, but it's far from dead. I'd almost go so far as to say that it's just right. Not too big, not too small, not too soft, not too hard. I just... really wanted to take the time, as a member of the staff and the community at large, to thank all of you. I know not everything is perfect. People have fights. Petty feelings can get in the way and blind us. Life gets in the way. People say things they don't mean. People don't say things that they mean to. Even so, there is a sense of community. Grudges don't seem to hold for long. Workarounds are found. Careless words are fixed, and overthought words eventually find their way to where they need to go. Our little home away from home isn't perfect, but it's a damn sight better than what it could have become if we hadn't had stood together. It's so different from what I remember, in general. I feel like I'm an old person looking at the forums and servers, even among people I actually talk to. So much history. So much time. But here you all are. People have come. People have gone. But the community is still here. And while I feel like a fossil, I still look forward to seeing you "younguns" a lot. So, thank you, NCM. For nothing other than being yourselves. Your kindness, your creativity, your intelligence, your humor, all of it. This quiet community means the absolute world to me. I can't speak for the team, in and of itself, but I can at least let you know how much all of you matter to me. And, as an absolutely personal note, I just want to say... if anyone is suffering. If anyone needs a shoulder to cry on. If anyone just needs to express something they don't feel safe to other places... I'm here. I'll listen. I'll give you my Discord if you want it. After all, life isn't easy. 2020 showed us that, if absolutely nothing else. But that doesn't mean you have to be alone. I see you. I'm with you. I'm sure a couple of you know who you are, and I hope you take this to heart... Yet I also hope anyone else who needs this right now sees it as well, and takes it as an opportunity. I love this place. And I love you guys. Thanks for two years, and I hope the third is great, too.

U.A. High. It had been a long time coming but Yasha was ready. He'd worked hard to get here, and now he had the privilege of attending Japan's most prestigious hero school. He adjusted his tie and collar, slapped his faceplate where cheeks would be on a regular head, and cleared his throat-- a sound like a stalling lawnmower-- as he approached. "Let's see here, are you--" "Yasha Yokuna, present SIR!" He said, standing rather stiffly at-attention. "I'm honored to be here-- and prepared to do my best!" "I... see. So, why is it that you want to be a hero?" Yasha grinned in response, showing off his teeth. Despite being abnormally sharp, they were also the only part of his head that looked even marginally human. The whole engine-block for a head thing wasn't going to earn him any points for beauty, that was for sure. "Because being a hero is hard work, and I LOVE HARD WORK!" His throat made a revving sound as his voice went up, and he covered his mouth with his hand. "Ah, sorry. I got excited there." "I never really got your type, kid. But go ahead and head on in. You'll probably make more sense to Ruby Heart." "THANK YOU, MISTER GLORY SIR!" The door to the classroom slid open and the sound of engines revving filled the air as Yasha entered, waving a pair of screaming chainsaw blades over his head. "HELP! MY HANDS ARE CHAINSA-HA-HAAAAWS!" He broke into laughter on the word 'chainsaws' and doubled over, the tools shrinking away. He straightened up and smiled, showing off his fanged grin, and waved his, now regular hands. "Nah, I'm fine-- 's just my Quirk. Hi!"

Inu wasn't happy. The field trip sucked, and while he was thankful it ended early, it seemed it didn't end for good reasons. The exact reason why, he actually didn't know though, he was hoping he'd find out in school today. Grumbling to himself, he popped a sunflower seed into his mouth as he walked into the classroom, hoping that it would distract him from a need to smoke. He walked in, scanning the room, looking to see if anything looked off or if people had some sort of gossip going on. Nothing really stuck at to him at the moment, and it was pissing him off. Did no one know what was going on? He sat down in his seat, sighing as slumped down. As if to signal that today wasn't going to get much better, it seemed a substitute teacher was here today. "So uh… I'm not Epicenter. You guys know that. I'm aaah… I'm the Destructive Hero - Dreadbolt. I'm a friend of Glory's, he asked me to sub for a bit while some of the staff is investigating some shi- errr, while the staff is investigating some bad stuff that happened yesterday…" Inu's eyes narrowed at that. So something did happen. He waited for some sort of explanation of what exactly the bad thing was, but instead, Dreadbolt moved on. "Fuck, why did I agree to this… Tomoaki you son of a bitch…"Quickly bringing himself to attention, he straightened his back and turned to address the class once again, "A-anyway, I'm sorry to inform you all that uhhh… Kikuchi Emi has dropped out of UA, for personal reasons. But there is good news, too! She will be replaced by the next runner-up in the entrance exam! Hoshinoooooo Rika!" With an unhealthy dose of melodrama, Dreadbolt pointed toward the classroom door with both hands… standing perfectly still in perfect silence for several seconds, before slouching in disappointment, "Is it too much to ask students to be punctual??? Can't I get one damn break???" "Don't worry about cussing, we're not kindergartners, we can taking some goddamn cussing without sullying our ears," Inu stated. "We'll probably hear worse out on the field," The new girl then went and made a fool of herself in front of everyone, but Inu wasn't going to hold that against her. At least she wasn't some joker that didn't take this whole thing seriously. Sun looked at the new girl with a sense of curiosity. She had a familiar look to her... well, kinda. It was more like she reminded him of lizards from back home. Now he was feeling nostalgic. But the poor girl seemed really scared, and that made Sun upset. He'd have to find some way to cheer her up... but, it seemed he wasn't alone in that endeavor. "Hi. I'm Hideyo," the happy sun man said happily. "And I think your quirk is the coolest thing I've seen. Ever!" "Aw, geez, I dunno about that really. Uh... I think if it was the coolest thing ever, I would've gotten in without having to get a little lucky." The chameleon laughed gently, her other hand rubbing at the back of her neck as she glanced up at the ceiling. "It's not, like... Terrible, at least! My dad had it bad, he didn't get any of the stuff mine can do. He was pretty nervous when I was born." She then began to look around the room. her eyes soon falling on the monkey king, who smiled at her. "Hello, I am Sun!" He greeted as he waved. "I like your quirk! It reminds me of home!" He hoped that despite his large size, she wouldn't be scared of him. "If you ever feel scared, just come find me! I'll protect you! You and Takehiko!" Before he could say anything else, the wolfman in the back raised his voice. "So... you gonna tell us what the fuck happened back at the beach?" Inu demanded at the sub. "Or are you really going to try to sweep some situation that was apparently so dangerous we had to leave right away, despite having three Pro Heroes there, under the rug?" Sun leaned over to Rika, whispering loudly. "Don't make the dog man angry. He looks very pettable, but he lights on fire, and fire is bad," "Shut the fuck up, monkey man," Inu snapped, causing Sun's eyes to narrow. That seemed like a direct challenge, and as king, he wasn't one to turn down challenges. However, it could have just been made in the heat of the moment, something that happened a lot back home. He'd wait for a second challenge from Inu before he showed him exactly why he was king of his home.

NEO is the best, most-well designed, efficient, responsive, and aesthetically pleasing yugioh card maker on the planet. In all seriousness, though... this has become a nice alternative hub for most active members of the community, and I commend your willingness and dedication to maintaining it as our beloved and reliable admin.

Yeah I cheated and gave u two Yeah yours is pretty sick so hard to beat tbh but here There abouts although I've seen @BGMキャノンs moustache and that thing is pretty stylish. I'm going to cheat and give you Fate stuff because hey, cheating is fine in moderation Finding art with just Kazooie is actually harder than I anticipated but this feels appropriate.

I hope you all like this (especially Dae) as I have poured countless painful hours into making this as perfect as the real Dae is.

Figured I'd post the cardless images I've drawn so far just in case anyone wants to use them for cards of their own. Canyon Battleguard Sword Slasher Mass-Production Model Malice Doll of Despair Gemini Metal Elf Identity Theft! Hopping Vampires Toon Swordmistress this one of Hungry Burger and the Bistro Butcher I don't actually have a card in mind for, but feel free to use it for something. The Snake Hairstyles Dark Scorpion Motivator Time Lizard I'll try to remember to add any more images here as I go along

A fic or series of mini-fics set in the Neo community based on superhero comics/cinema. The characters are the members, each having their own superpower (or not, depending on what they want.) This used to be in Misc, but I decided to make an official interest check thread in the writing section for more credibility. Thoughts? Opinions? Suggestions? Let me know.

Good morning/afternoon/evening all, Im happy to announce Yemachu accepted a position of administrator for the site! He'll be focusing on development of the card maker within the site itself please keep all site requests and support queries in mine and the other members of staffs direction (unless of course it relates to the card maker) I think I speak for everyone in saying that the work Yemachu has done for this community and the last up until this point has been nothing more then incredible. We look forward to working with him moving forward. Please use this thread for any questions you might have for Yemachu. @Members @VIP @Yemachu

tfw single but killin

Time Lizard | LIGHT | Reptile/Effect ATK 500 | DEF 400 You can tribute 1 Reptile monster you control: Toss a coin and call it. If you call it right, Special Summon 1 Reptile or Dinosaur monster from your hand or GY. If you call it wrong, take damage equal to the ATK of the tributed monster. A quickie I drew up because of a pun. Juggled a few different effect ideas so I hope the one I went with wouldn't be overpowered, but I'm always open to suggestions.

So, I wanted to build off of the depression entry. To a degree, at least. I want to talk about abuse. And I'll start with personal experience. You can skip to the second divider, if you don't wish to read this section. --- My dad was abusive. He never got to hit me, beyond a belt on my rear, thanks to my mom... but he was extremely emotionally abusive. He looked for any and all opportunities to belittle me or scold me, and then took them out on my mother instead if she objected, only to redouble on me. To make sure I wasn't an embarrassment to him. That I never even considered crossing him. He was the MAN of the house. What he said went. His wife was to be a stay-at-home mother who cooked and cleaned. His son was to be a clone of him who would exist only to make him look better. The Bible "said" he was to be the head of the household and in charge. So, of course, having a woman who didn't simply bow to him bothered him. Having a child be a child was unacceptable. Even my cousins were given similar treatment, especially before I was born. Like attempting to beat my older cousin with a brush for touching his bag when he had just returned from a trip. Where he cheated on my mother. But that's another story. Or how about instilling his young child with fear so great that a 6 year old was scared of burning in hell for not being perfect? Scared that the rapture would take place and leave them behind? My mother's parents as well. There's a laundry list that's come from my mother and her siblings about their childhoods, but the present is more pressing. Treating everyone around them like slaves. Gma pitting every single family member against each other, if given a chance. Resenting anyone that doesn't follow the plan she's set up. My gpa hit my mother recently for disagreeing with him. He threatened to call the cops on me if I ever disagreed with him. Told me we never made a deal for me to drive, and that I was a lying thief. Threatened to shoot us for not serving a meal he wanted, and gma only replied "you'd shoot me!?". Trying to kick us out, with nowhere to go, because mom was too sick to prepare a meal for their very able-bodied selves. All the while, these people play the victim. They're just suffering because of everyone else. My dad is a martyr, a God-fearing man who goes to church every week and beyond. He's a father figure to some people. An upstanding deacon. Any grievances that could be expressed could only be done so by a member of the church, as opposed to an outsider who KNOWS him. And he has sooo many illnesses, needs so many surgeries, and so on. Gparents are even worse for the latter. Trying to call social services because we weren't being proper caretakers, when they were more than able-bodied and we never agreed. Gma has been faking a cough almost my entire life, as she's admitted. Uses any appointment as a guilt to get people to spend money on her. And so many more fake things, always something to guilt someone into spending money and rendering service, all while playing up how cruel everyone is to them... when they both left their own parents to rot as they got into old age. Even before then. But they're owed it, because they were 'good' parents. Kids are for taking care of them, after all! --- ... and that's just people I, unfortunately, share blood with. But why do I bring up all this anecdotal evidence, when I'm doing what is normally philosophical or purely stream of consciousness? Well... that's because of the relationship that abusers tend to have to abuse's after effects, as I see it. As I experience it. I am so, so scared of calling myself an abuse victim. I never thought of myself as one for most of my life, just assuming that... everyone went through those things. And, even after that, I still just assumed I had to push on. It was just a hurdle. Just a scar that would one day shine. I wasn't a victim. Victims were people that the world hated, shunned, ignored. People that used it as a crutch. Sure, there were exceptions that I had met, but... by and large, people like my abusers portrayed themselves entirely as victims, never taking any accountability for their actions. Turning around anything they did to me back on to me as a source. Yet here I am. The moment I hear hushed voices, I go still and try to hear if they're going to be about me, if I fucked up, if they hate me. Loud noises cause me to shut down. I am oftentimes scared to even leave my room, to the point that I earned the nickname "Bernie-Bear" from Mel's friends for just how shy and bad I was with people. Which, coincidentally... was the moment that me being a victim of abuse began to set in. And I tried so hard to look away from it! I was strong! I had to be strong! I just had some hang ups, that's all! There was no way I was a victim! It is so, so, so hard to call myself a victim. I think it is for most people, really. I don't want to be like those in my life who I was abused by. I don't want to be perceived like them. I don't want to be pitied or looked at like I'm weak. If I'm weak, then I've failed. I'm letting them control me. I'm letting my abusers control my present, as they did my past. That's letting them win... BUT THAT'S WRONG! That isn't true at all! It is not wrong to hurt! It is not wrong to have been hurt by people who DON'T have power over you, much less those that do! You are not weak for being abused! You do NOT deserve that abuse! And those people that fake? Those people that use it to chase clout? Fuck them! They're more likely than not abusers themselves, and you shouldn't worry about them! You shouldn't have to be inhibited about your pain, you shouldn't have to shove it down so that you don't "let them win"! Shoving it down IS how they win, because you leave the trauma inside to fester and bubble, allowing it to consume you whole! You have a right to be angry! You have a right to be sad! You have a right to FEEL! ... It's okay to be a victim. You didn't make the choice to be one. There's nothing wrong with acknowledging what happened to you, be it sexual, physical, emotional, or any combination thereof. People can be monstrous. I do struggle with admitting to myself that I'm an abuse victim. I almost cried talking to my mother tonight, because we both are so close to being able to say and accept how we've been abused, but the people we know are so fake and wicked that we fear association with their behaviors. It's admitting that you aren't fully in control to admit to being abused, and it takes a LOT of courage to do so. So, to abuse victims... You are stronger than you think. That abuse isn't who you are. You did not deserve it. Cruel people inflicted it on you for a multitude of reasons, but none of them were your fault. It was not a result of your choices, but the result of others taking your choice away from you. This world has so much potential for love. So many people truly wishing to help heal a broken heart, soul, spirit. Sure, there are more abusers out there... But I sincerely hope that anyone this applies to finds someone they can truly depend on. Someone who will not treat them as you may have become accustomed to being treated. I see you. I hurt for you. I'm here for you. And, if given the chance, I will open my heart and love you. Stay determined, everyone.

Made about a week ago for the sake of having something of the season in time xD I had no idea how to go about the background once I had the character made, so I kept adding violets, purples, blues, vaguely resembling a cave-like pattern and after enough time I grabbed a pen and have what you see here.... I think the green is a bit too light and lime-y but that's what you get when you YOLO it and hope it ends up well hahaha....

"Ah what's the matter Dog Breath. Someone need a scratch behind the ear?" At this point, Inu growled, baring his teeth at the cat. "Go get high off some catnip, Cat Bitch," he snapped. Before it could go any further though, the teacher went off, ignoring Inu completely as he began to talk about everything else. "Fuckin' bastard's ignoring me...," Inu growled under his breath, but deciding to let it drop for now. He'd just grill Epicenter when she came back. She didn't look like she could keep a secret. However, before he could even fully calm down... "And finally, Kagarashi Hideyo, Konpaku Rei, Sogin Hakaro, and Sasaki Inu, you will all be against the number 5 hero, your history teacher Ruby Heart!" "Wait, Sasaki? Is there any chance you know the pro hero Howl?" "Fuck," Inu muttered as he gritted his teeth. "Yeah, I know the indecisive bitch. What a-fuckin'-bout it?" He took a handful of sunflower seeds and chomped on them with an angry crunching sound, just as Spidey O'Bitch came up to him. After their pleasant little exchange, the hellhound found himself standing in a corner of the room, chew on sunflower seeds as he watched two of his teammates at each other throats. Maybe they'd injure each other and Inu could transfer to a new group. That wasn't how it worked, and he knew it. With a sigh, he walked over, plopping his butt on the desk's top next to Hideyo. "So... you think we should stop them from fighting, or just wait it out?" He asked, chewing on yet another sunflower seed. Sun was ecstatic. He made a new friend in RIka, and Takehiko was trying to be friends with Rika to! Now he had two friends! There was only one problem though. "Sun Sun, Kaenbyou Tsubasa, Ohara Ben, and the new student Hoshino Rika, you will all be up against your JET teacher, Xionglauhu!" So Takehiko was on a different team, meaning Sun couldn't defend them. He had just had to believe in the guy. It wasn't like this was life or death anyways, so he should be fine, right? Sun wasn't convinced, but he couldn't let the others know that. For now, his team had gathered to make a plan. Sun could make plans, very good plans in fact! He bet his friends would be blown away with his great plans! "Ah... Does the sheet say anything about whether we're expected to actually win? With a numbers advantage, I get the idea of us holding up at least a bit, but... Winning seems like a long shot any way I look at it." Rika asked. Sun blinked as he looked at her. Why wouldn't they be expected to win? That was the law of the jungle, win or lose, kill or be killed. It was the same here... except without the killing. Most people weren't animals, they'd stop before that. "Hey Tsubasa, Sun...and you said your name is Rika, right?" The man with the many spiders approached them, causing Sun to subconsciously scratch himself. "Ahem...sorry I didn't probably make a good impression when you walked in. I'm Benjamin O'Hara, but I usually go by Ben. Nice to meet you. So...I guess it's going to be us four as a team." "A team huh?" the mini jaguar girl suddenly spoke up, "well, then alternate winning or otherwise, you have nothing to work about Iroko. After all, you've got three people with you, and most importantly I'm here with you. So, as long as those things are true, we're definitely a sure win." Smiling more excitedly she said, "and besides, haven't you always wanted to fight a bear?" "I dunno what a bear is, but it sounds fun," Sun admitted. "Nothing... To worry about? I dunno, I think we've got plenty to worry about. We don't know what our actual task is gonna be, aside from trying to overpower someone with more practice and experience than us. ...Fight a bear? I can't say it really ever crossed my mind. Generally you're supposed to, like... Play dead against them, right? Maybe we can do that against the bear then. I'd say we should come up with a plan, but... What can we plan for when we don't know the specifics? Hopefully we can get some actual time before the exam to plot a bit." "Oh, oh, do not worry!" Sun said excitedly. "I, Sun, have a great plan!" He cleared his throat before he started to explain. "So, we're gonna have you all stand behind me so I can protect you all, and then, I'm going to throw a rock at the bear!" He paused, waiting for a response, before adding as an afterthought. "It's going to be a very big rock,"

As he stepped onto the bus, Yasha was confident he had everything he needed. He was a bit over-packed, even for the beach-- a beach umbrella, a tarp/blanket, a couple gallons of water in a cooler bag, enough sunscreen to give the sun cancer, spare batteries for his phone-- but he was comfortable with carrying all of it, as long as it meant he could do what he came here to do. "Oi, oi, oi. You coming, O'Hara?" He stopped in the doorway to look back at the lagging American on his phone. "Hm? ...o-oh...uh...were we just supposed to enter the bus? I thought...jeez...gotta remember I'm not in America anymore. Uh, yeah I'm coming..." The two ended up sitting together on the bus, and Yasha was practically vibrating the seat-- which was notable since, at this proximity, it nearly drowned out the engine of the bus. Benjamin noticed Yasha's general noises and shrugged some. "I take it you're excited for the beach, huh Yasha?" Yasha looked up. "Oh, uh." He cleared his throat. "No, not really. Saltwater gums up my tool hands, I'm at a greater risk of heatstroke than most, and of course there's... sand..." He shuddered, then shifted back to his usual cheerful tone. "Pretty much everything about the beach is a horrible experience for me!" He smiled toothily. "Yikes..." Benjamin shook his head slightly. "Annnnd you're still okay with going? Despite the threats and risks that it brings you?" Yasha nodded emphatically. "Oh, totally. It's all worth it." "Uh-huh...alright, I'll bite...why is it worth it to you?" Yasha's expression, to the extend he had one, became suddenly serious. He glanced around, as though there were someone listening, though of course, nobody was. "Alright, don't tell anybody, but..." He leaned in and whispered. "I really just came to see the girls in their swimsuits. Think about it: Seigi, Konpaku, Ukemei-- all of them. In swimsuits." Yasha's faceplate was already red, and he had no skin above the neck so of course he couldn't blush, but there was an actual puff of steam from roughly where his nostrils would be as he straightened back up. Benjamin was surprised by this sudden turn of events as Yasha confided this information to him. The general thought of it, actually caused him to blush some. He looked around, before putting a hand on the chair, having a spider crawl out from his hand to sit on the chair, just as a lookout. "...that's why you were gung-ho about this? ...also do we need to even add Rei into this category?" Benjamin whispered back to Yasha. No going back with this conversation. Yasha nodded and huffed again, producing more little puffs of steam and folding his arms. "Even a cold girl like Konpaku can look good in a swimsuit, O'Hara. Heck, even a plain-looking girl like Sanada looks good in a swimsuit. It's science." Benjamin was still silent for a bit, before raising an eyebrow. "...uh, isn't Ren a guy...?" Yasha's eye twitched. "Not again..." he wheezed.

This is the NCM drawing resources, here you can learn to draw, see videos, programs, and etc that could help you. request drawings, learn to draw, get told how to draw, get critique, and etc. Only hand drawn things(from any program) are allowed, so no copy + pasting anything, but you can edit them however you like(warp them, put them in layers, overlay them, blur them, whatever you feel like doing), just not transplanting stuff from the internet. Some graphics programs you could use: Also, link your mobile phone to your PC to draw with it, if you feel like it. Use Chrome Remote Desktop or Teamviewer. A few throwaway tips of mine: Videos: A few of my drawings: Have fun!

pre-test jitters It was barely sunrise when Shoshiki arrived at the testing grounds. He would have left sooner, but decided that walking alone in the dark would be a bit too much for him. It wasn't a big deal, his hotel was only a few blocks away, but Shoshiki decided to play it on the safe side. He was simply being reasonable, nothing more. As far as he could tell, only one girl had arrived before him. She looked distracted, yet determined. Shoshiki figured she was probably friendly enough, but decided not to risk it. Who knows what kind of person could be here, she could have a quirk even grislier than his own. And so Shoshiki Kojin stood almost completely still at the edge of the waiting area, as the rest of the hopefuls arrived. It wasn't long before the gates opened, allowing Shoshiki and the rest of the applicants to make their way in. It seemed the testing ground had both a forest and a cityscape, two environments Shoshiki could only hope he would be able to use to his advantage. As a man in some kind of antique-styled armor explained the test, Shoshiki couldn't help but be distracted by the rest of the entrants, "To get this far…” was that a giant beetle? Did beetles eat meat? One of this size was probably very hungry... “forest type area, and a city type area…” a guy with blue hair and headphones was watching the samurai explain, but looked like he would rather be literally anywhere else... “your objectives will all be the same.” With this, Shoshiki perked up. He should probably pay attention to this part. “In each area are a limited amount of badges that resemble the U.A. logo. To complete the practical, one must obtain five badges and return to the gate before sundown. It doesn't matter how you get your badges. Just so long as you're here, you'll be permitted to attend U.A." Using wording like that is going to make people think we are supposed to fight over these. "So if I beat the snot out of some dude with three badges, and take 'em, I get in?" The question came from an angry-looking, muscular girl, who seemed to be about as tall as Shoshiki himself. Despite her apparent confusion over how many badges she needed, her strategy concerned Shoshiki. He had never really fought before, let alone with someone who had been training their quirk for that purpose for what could be ten years. He felt a terrible sinking feeling inside him as the people surrounding him changed from unknown entities to threats. “...our very BEST!" A loud screech interrupted his thoughts, as Shoshiki quickly pivoted to find its source. As best as he could tell, she had some kind of bat quirk. Wait. Wouldn't that make her a vampire? Was she going to murder Shoshiki and drink his blood as sustenance? The samurai/teacher hybrid had said that they weren't supposed to kill each other, but this was a vampire, do the rules even matter at this point? Even as the vampire was scolded by another scary girl with red hair, Shoshiki still found himself feeling like prey. Even if not literally, everyone around him was determined to get into this school, and Shoshiki standing in their way wasn't going to make them change their minds. He could feel the threads of nerve tissue moving just beneath his skin, his flight or flight response coming on in full force. Should he team up with someone so as to have strength in numbers should they be attacked? Or would that just put him at risk of being betrayed once they had found a total of five badges? As the rest of the would-be students were beginning to socialize, Shoshiki was overcome with fear. Even as he could feel himself shaking from head to toe, he forced himself to take a few deep breaths, before making his way to the least terrifying person he could see, a small girl with silver hair. He reached up to tap her shoulder, but hesitated before he could. She might have acid skin or something, I should be more careful. Averting his vision, he awkwardly scratched at the back of his neck, speaking in such a subdued tone that he was hardly audible, "So, if people are planning to take the badges by force, it might be a better bet to stick together... I don't know you, but, you seemed a bit more pleasant and a bit less violent than the others I see here..."

Getting up in the morning had hardly been a problem for Yuuka. She had merely figured what time would be the best to wake up to get through her morning routine and set an alarm for then. Having gotten up just when she should, the girl had made her way to school, and arrived with some time to spare before their exam had actually begun. As such, it did her good to see that there were those even more ready and on time then her, and so she simply smiled brightly and contentedly, awaiting their exam time to start. Standing around, the girl simply looked and studied the two instructors before her, head to toe while listening to the directions they provided. "Oh, this might be some trouble," the girl merely muttered to herself. While she had her own concerns as to how to approach this test, to her great pleasure it had seemed that there were a large majority of other heroes to be that did not. Though there was some to be desired she glanced from student to student as they talked to each other, stretching herself out as she was instructed to do so all the while. Two girls who definitely had the confidence and physicality to be a hero, though definitely lack in the tact of one. One girl who - Yuuka winced - definitely had the energy levels of one. A boy, Shiba Yuudai, who seemed to have proper manners. And then there were two other girls in particular that managed to catch her attention. Both being full of spirit and a certain righteous quality that set them apart from the others so far. The girl merely smiled in glee, wondering just what the test had in store for them, while also looking forward to seeing more of her classmates. Turning her attention to the blonde haired girl, she merely raised her own fist into the air with a smile on her face echoing, "<justice>" in a much more subdued tone than the girl's, but still in English all the same.

A while back I made a custom archetype named "Abystella" (stars of the abyss) consisting on marine life with patterns of glowing yellow stars. Here's the art I drew for it: Whale Narwal Jellyfish Squid Mantaray Sea Dragon/Sea Horse Isopod Marlin Fisher Nautilus Sea Serpent Mermaid Art for Spells or Traps

←Previous Post -- Next Post→ Weeks Zero and One: "It was The Road to Hell. It was Hard Times..." You will arrive along The Old Road. It winds with a troubling, serpent-like suggestion through the corrupted countryside, leading only, I fear, to ever more tenebrous places. There is a sickness in the ancient, pitted cobbles of The Old Road, and on its writhing path, you will face viciousness, violence, and perhaps other, damnably transcendent terrors. So steel yourself, and remember: there can be no bravery without madness. The Old Road will take you to hell, but in that gaping abyss, we will find our redemption. The initial introduction to the campaign is a series of tutorial fights with the Crusader and Highwayman, but I’m going to jump ahead a little here and just go through our new adventurers, describe all the quirks that they’ve just gotten, and, when necessary give some brief commentary on how I expect them to improve. In a normal game of Darkest Dungeon, I wouldn’t take half of you. I’d just find the ones I liked and dismiss the rest. But, to be really corny about it, this isn’t a five-card draw, it’s a twenty-four-person stud, so studs you shall become or die trying. You’re gonna do great. With that out of the way, let’s actually go down The Old Road to find our redemption or whatever Wayne June was talking about. The tutorial’s not over yet, though. The Hamlet is still mostly boarded up so I’ll cover that when it becomes more open, but the first foray into the ruins is scripted as well, so let’s go there. You’re supposed to run with a Crusader, Highwayman, Vestal, Plague Doctor party, but we have significantly more options available to us. I chose this party for a few reasons. The first is, well, I feel incentivized to use the adventurers with forum names. Besides, I don’t have a better solution to Skaia and Hakima being Antsy yet, and it’s not like they have zero synergies when paired up. Arbalest’s Big Crossbow, then, was an easy choice since the Arbalest also deals with marks, and then I needed a healer, so Junia it was. You’ll notice the name the game gave this party. That only occasionally shows up and is a sign the developers at Red Hook anticipated this party might be put together. Again, this will be a scripted map, so I know what I need to take to save on gold. The dog biscuits and the bandage come from choosing the Houndmaster and the Arbalest with me, and the rest, in order, are as follows: Torches so I can see, keys for chests, food for healing (and, you know, to eat), shovels for blockages, and holy water mostly for a curio but it can also boost resistances to debuffs. I suppose I can go through the remaining items too. Dog treats are a Houndmaster-specific buff when consumed, and bandages stop bleeding. To the right of the shovels is antivenom, which cures blight, and in-between the bandages and the keys are medicinal herbs, which cure miscellaneous debuffs. In the bottom-left is ladanum, which is useless I mean, it cures the stress-over-time effect called “horror” which is a little rare, even after Marvin’s mods, and on the other side is Shard Dust, which we don’t need to worry about until at least mid-game and will be explained then. This is an important screen, though. Once you hit that “Embark” button at the bottom, there is no turning back. We’re ready, though, so into the ruins we go. That’s all I have for you today. Sorry I couldn’t introduce everyone, but this post has gone over 3500 words. I don’t know how the next few weeks will go, but there hasn’t been a reason for me to complain just yet. Let me know if you have any questions, either about your character or about the game at large. Next time, we’ll open up the wider estate for exploring, go through some of the slowly-reopening buildings of the Hamlet, and, as a special treat, a trip to the circus! ←Previous Post -- Next Post→

The end of the Chicken Fight round and the immediate aftermath that followed was a blur to Risa. She barely remembered much, other than a hazy reply to Ben as the two separated. Regardless, she eventually found herself out in the lower reaches of the arena, below the stands, her Stabilizing Soles held over her shoulder by the metal frames near the opening for the leg, her heartbeat finally slowing enough to fully comprehend what had just happened. “I’m in the last round of the Sports Festival,” she said softly to herself. She was hardly able to believe it. How the hell was she here, among the other students of the Hero Course? To think this all started just because I was able to drag Sasaki out of that debris, she thought to herself. The thought was shocking to her, and she suddenly had a desire to find Sasaki and make sure he was alright. After all, I maybe jogged him real hard in midair… I’m sure I can just see if he’s going to make a quick recovery, right? “Hey, is that the Kawashima girl?” Risa very suddenly felt the need to accelerate this plan, a flush of color coming to her cheeks as she hurried down the corridor back into the stadium proper, not looking back despite calls of her name from behind her. It’s fine, it’s fine, they’ll just assume it’s somebody else, she told herself. It wasn’t until she was just around the corner from the infirmary that she realized there were likely precious few other small girls in UA uniforms loaded down with various pieces of metal and carrying foot cages over her shoulder. Oh. Oh no. Oh god. She silently berated herself as she stopped her forward momentum to pace back and forth, back and forth. Was that rude? I mean… They want to talk to the Hero students more, surely- “Kawashima? Kawashima Risa?” She jumped about a mile, whipping around to see, wide-eyed, a full on camera crew and a microphone pushed in her face. “Um… Yes? Hi?” she squeaked helplessly. The reporter, undaunted by Risa looking like a startled deer, smiled widely. “Young Miss Kawashima, we’re just looking to interview some of the heroes who have made it this far in the Festival!” “Student, just a-” she began a meek correction, but the reporter was already forging on. "Kawashima, it looks like you have been doing a spectacular job upholding the family legacy!" Risa couldn’t put her finger on why, but that question felt like a knife blade to the gut in her current mood. Regardless, she tried to smile as she answered. The result was less than convincing, but the embarrassed reaction to the interview was days away, when it was inevitably recycled on TV and she would have the misfortune to see it. "Ummmm, I don't know about that! My big sis Fumiko is the one you'd want to talk to about that… The hero Prestige? O'Hara-sama is really where a lot of the credit for today so far has to go. I really was just very very lucky to have him put up with me as a partner!” "Funny thing, he said the same about you. Did you two know each other before all this? You've made quite the pair." "No, I've never met any of the Hero Course before toda- EEEEEH?!? He said what? He's just being nice, he's very encouraging. But ummmmm... No, I hadn't met him, I'd only heard about his Quirk in class a few times and thought it was interesting because, well... It is, isn't it, he's learned to use such a fascinating Quirk so well, even in round two where he had to carry me around and wasn't able to crawl on walls he was-" Risa now began a long and detailed ramble about Spider Colony what she had been able to infer about it, her brain having finally latched onto something she could talk about with confidence. She failed to interpret the reporter’s peeved expression as a desire for her to stop, thinking maybe she hadn’t clarified a point correctly. “And like I was saying, I think he has some degree of ability to direct them, or they’re way smarter than spiders usually are, and they’re actually very smart insects, I mean arachnids-” "I... See…” The reporter managed to finally cut her off by cutting around behind her, weaving an arm around Risa’s shoulders and leaning in conspiratorially to ask the next question. “We heard early on that whichever non-hero course student gets the farthest will be inducted into it. How do you feel, now that you have accomplished that goal and outlasted the two general course students from the previous round?" All thoughts of Spider Colony left Risa’s head. Her brain screeched to a halt at this question. All she was able to say was: "... Atsushi-san and Karada-san didn't advance?" “... Well, no. Didn’t you see on the board? You’re the sole student not from Class A or Class B.” "... I don't remember much after I saw I had advanced... I don't think I even saw the other teams that went forward..." "Well then it's a good thing the path into the hero course isn't a memory exam, isn't it?" The attempt on humor was lost completely on Risa’s mounting tide of panic. "Wait, WAIT, I'M the highest non-Hero course member in the Sports Festival?!?!?" "Congratulations, Kawashima," was the simple reply, as the cameraman started frowning at the reporter, making very clear ‘finish it’ looks with his eyes. Risa was only able to offer a very small “thank you” in reply. "With a legacy like yours, there will be a lot of eyes on you. Let's see how far you can go!" The reporter slapped a hand with forced cheerfulness on Risa’s shoulder before they turned to walk away, huffing out a breath. "Yeah... We'll um…” Risa cleared her throat, not even processing that the microphone wasn’t being shoved into her face anymore. “...have to see, right? How far..." “Why would you want to be a hero?” The memory of a question Risa had asked herself over and over again for years rebounded inside her head. She resumed her slow walk down the hallway, frowning as one of her hands absently fiddled with a strap on one of her Soles. Why indeed? She was smaller than most people her age, scared more easily than people her age, dumber too if her Support grades were any indication; She didn’t even have a Quirk that could make up for it. If I didn’t get to bring these in just for being in the Support Class I wouldn’t even be here, she thought to herself, rubbing at one of the weights on her belt. There was no sense in denying that. All the rest of the top eight had gotten here on the results of the Quirks and their skill at using them. Hers did literally nothing without something to work with from the start. I’m not like Fumiko, who can just make metal from her skin… And I’m certainly not the former Glory. So why do people keep acting like I am? She realized two things with horror. One was that clearly the interview crew had gone the same direction as her, and she hadn’t even noticed. She could hear the reporter’s voice around the corner even now, just outside the infirmary. The second was that her eyes were wet. She hurriedly reached up to wipe at them, almost dropping her Stabilizing Sole as she did so. She certainly didn’t want a bunch of strangers to see her crying, though she couldn’t quite put a good reason to why. "It appeared to be quite advanced, the only other one allowed to bring tech in is the student who designed her equipment herself, in class. How did you manage to receive this special treatment?" A stab of guilt, that. Even the casual onlookers knew that fact of the matter. "It's weaker than I am. [Significantly]. It's a registered support item that I need to get through day to day life." Risa very dimly recognized Diana’s voice. She and the American had never met, but this wasn’t the first time Risa had heard her speak. And after all, who else could they be talking to? "It looked plenty strong on camera. The boy you hit was awfully bloodied just from that strike. Is he on the other side of this door?" Risa frowned. That wasn’t exactly fair, at least not to her. Diana was right, her arm was literally missing. Only now did she think back to when she had walked by Diana in the stadium. There HAD been a small tingle, that sense she had that alerted her to any metal close enough for her Quirk to pick up on it. She hadn’t even noticed in her gut-wrenching worry about the next round. She had never seen the specs on Diana’s arm, had truthfully not even known she had a prosthetic, but it clearly hadn’t been designed to be used as a weapon first. Even she knew that, there was no way it would have broken that easily. She wondered if she should say something. She may not be a Hero Course student, but perhaps as a Support student her word might have some weight? Sure, she had the worst grades in her class, but they didn’t know that. Probably. But for all she knew Diana’s arm HAD been made as a weapon and there had just been some fluke, some aspect of her Quirk or Syo’s Quirk or Ayane’s Quirk or just a fluke of physics that had caused it to explode like that, though she really rather doubted it, perhaps she could ask Deerc-sensei about- And then Shannon’s cool voice cut in from around the corner. Risa flattened herself against the wall instinctually. She had seen the variety of holy terror that Shannon was capable of. Deerc-sensei still sometimes groused about her decking his Thunderjaw by herself. She couldn’t give a good reason for why Shannon scared her. She had been terrified of her the entire Festival, trying her best to avoid her the entire time. But now at least she could get behind Shannon’s actions as she did what Risa hadn’t been brave enough to do herself and tell the reporters off. It reminded her of something her sister might do, and Risa wasn’t entirely sure why that was concerning to her rather than a cause for relief. Or maybe it was both. At that thought, Risa had to take a mental step back and make up her mind that the pressures of the day had officially made her thought processes, convoluted and frantic at the best of times, officially made no damn sense. "I am powerful. Society dictates that means that I am and will always be a good hero, due to such.” Shannon’s voice, filtering around the corner again. Another frown from Risa. Being powerful… There was something to that. After all, she was weak, and not a Hero Course student. But for some reason when Shannon said that she couldn’t help but think of Ben. Think of Kawashima Fumiko. Think of Kawashima Yozo. And she still couldn’t say exactly why. But there was one thing she knew she did want to do. “Siegi-sama?” Risa had followed Diana away from the infirmary, waiting until Shannon had left in the other direction. She waved a hand as she rushed to catch up on her shorter legs, Stabilizing Soles held over her shoulder. “I um, was going to the infirmary to see if Sasaki-sama, make sure he’s alright… if he’s in there, I don’t know if you saw him. Kawashima, by the way,” she said hurriedly, waving a hand. “I was O’Hara-sama’s partner? Um…” There was an awkward moment while she gathered her words before blurting out: “I overheard the reporters. Talking to you, I’m sorry. They talked to me too and I… really didn’t like it either.” She looked down at the ground, embarrassed to talk about it. “But I… I think the question about your arm was really unfair. I’m not the best Support student but… Icouldmaybetryand… fix it?” She bit her lip. It sounded daft when she said it that way. Surely Siegi thought she was trying to sabotage her now, she was so unbelievably awkward. But she both could and wanted to offer. The desire to want to help.

My latest piece in soft pastel, this time using splatters of white paint for the stars. Feedback is appreciated! ^^

Moments Before the Duel "Team Wilding is making their first appearance today, led by their captain, Action Duelist Honey Froswald! Some of you in the audience may recognize her as the younger sister of Major League Champion Elliot Dritte! Cam she live up!?” “Her opponent is Daichi Raimu from Team Genesis! Not much is known about them, but perhaps we’ll learn some today! Can he measure up to the sister of a champion!?” Daichi looked at himself in the mirror of the locker room, as he just finished changing into his outfit, looking at the hat he'd be wearing. "Win or lose..." he smiled before nodding, putting the hat on. "It's showtime!" The Duel The lights in the arena cut off for a moment, until a series of spotlights started coming on one by one, moving in quite the rhythmic fashion...finally something cut through the hushed tones of the crowds. “Ladies and gentlemen!! If you would please turn your attention this way to the center field and you’ll see our illustrious challenger...miss Honey!” the voice boomed as the spotlights pointed at the Duelist on the field. But all but one suddenly left the Duelist in a swift fashion. “...and who comes to take the stage to meet this challenger? Why...none other than I...” The remaining spotlights converged on one fixed location and suddenly an explosion of purple smoke erupted in where the spotlights stood...and once it settled… “Ladies and gentlemen, the Moonlit Magician has arrived.” Daichi smirked, bowing slightly and facing towards the opponent, the lights immediately coming back on afterwards. “I’m Honey Froswald! I don’t have any special epithet, but I want to give everyone an entertaining experience, all the same!” “3… 2… 1… Duel!” LET THE SHOW BEGIN!!! Action Field - Grand Adventure...he was cool with this. It was something he'd spent some time on before, so he was in his element somewhat. "If you don’t mind, I believe I’ll take the first move.” Daichi drew his five cards and looked at them, nodding slowly. “I shall set the Pendulum Scale, using my Dragonpit and Dragonpulse Magicians!” Soon two magicians appeared at either side of Daichi before rising into the air above him, being surrounded by a pillar of light. “The scales of 1 and 8, meaning monsters Level 2 through 7 are fair game!” Taking another look at his hand, he nodded. “And now, I’ll use this moment to do just that! Using Dragonpit and Dragonpulse...time for the real show to begin!” Daichi watched as now a dowsing pendulum appeared between the two magicians and slowly began to sway back and forth. “Metronomic Pendulum, swing and sway to mesmerize the audience! Give way for the magicians to take the stage! PENDULUM SUMMON!!! Now, put your hands together!!!” Soon one light came from where the Pendulum swayed and in quite the light show and flair, one magician exploded in a bright colorful array of light and descended near Daichi. "Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the star of my performance: Oafdragon Magician!" Daichi proudly introduced as the magician took a slight bow. "Alas, it's the first turn and I cannot attack. So instead, I’ll set one card face down and relinquish my t-...” he said, simply placing one card face down just as he said, preparing to pass his turn...however, Honey didn’t seem to let him just yet. “Not so fast! I activate the effect of my Ursarctic Micbilis from my hand! By tributing another Level 7 or higher monster from my hand or field during either player’s Main Phases, I can Special Summon it! I tribute Ursarctic Mictanus! I then activate its effect! It allows me to summon another Ursarctic monster from my hand! Come down, Megapolar! When this one is summoned, I can destroy one spell or trap… and I choose your set card!” Ursarctic...that was something he wasn't expecting exactly. “Well well, now that is an impressive start from you!” he said with a smile, immediately flipping his face-down up: Pendulum Area. It did indeed shatter in front of him, but in quite the beautiful display. “I suppose my bait of Pendulum Area worked. Well, if that’s the case...then I shall now relinquish my turn...provided you have no other interruptions. Now go on, let’s see what we can do to entertain the masses!” “Then you’ll love what comes next! I use Megabilis as a tuner, with Polari as the non-Tuner…” She motioned to them as their forms became green rings for Megabilis, and a single black star for Polari, “to summon...Ursarctic Grand Chariot! When it’s summoned, it destroys two cards you control… So I’ll destroy Dragonpit and Dragonpulse!” The massive mech reared the scythe back as Honey hopped onto the mech’s shoulder before shooting forward, swinging the mech through the pendulums set as scales and shattering them, leaving Daichi with just one card in hand and Oafdragon. “Taking out Dragonpulse and Dragonpit...an impressive thing to do as of now...” Daichi nodded, before moving quickly towards an Action Card...however...he didn't get it whatsoever. Honey seemed to beat him to the punch as she was practically launched by Grand Chariot to grab it. “Now, Grand Chariot! Destroy Oafdragon!” As Daichi recovered from missing the grab, he shielded himself with his cape, only for his monster to be destroyed! His life fell to 3400 from the battle damage, as Honey walked back up beside her ace, panting. The crowd cheered for the display it saw, only a bit louder than Daichi earlier. “I’ll set one, then it’s your turn. Let’s see you beat that!” Surprisingly, Daichi was applauding Honey right now, the sounds of him clapping could be heard. “Impressive display...truly! But, we magicians don’t go down as easily...not when we still have so much to display and dazzle our audiences with! I draw!!” he said, drawing his next card. “From my hand, I activate Amazing Pendulum! Seeing as I no longer have any cards in my Pendulum Zone, I can add two Magician Pendulum Monsters with different names from my Extra Deck to my hand. I’m selecting Dragonpulse and Dragonpit!” Quickly removing the two cards from his Extra Deck, Daichi added them to his hand before swiftly placing them on his Duel Disk. “Time for a repeat performance, you two! Dragonpulse and Dragonpit now set my Pendulum Scale! Once more, metronomic pendulum! Swing and sway! Pendulum Summon! From the Extra Deck and from my hand!!” Two lights appeared from the swaying Pendulum as two monsters appeared in a kneeling position. “Oafdragon Magician returns and joining him is Rapid-Fire Magician in Defense Mode!” “In response, I activate the Micpolar in my hand!” She revealed the polar bear card, Mictanus in grave popping out to be moved to banish, “Summoning it in defense! And when I do, it searches for another Megapola!” As the polar bear mech surfed onto the field, Honey’s set card also rose up, shining as it activated. Her LP fell to 3300 as the name Ursarctic Quint Charge became clear. “Then I activate the first effect of Quint Charge! I add Megabilis back from Grave to hand, only to tribute it immediately for Megapolar!” The humanoid polar bear mech from earlier appeared once more, brandishing its hammer! It took aim at Dragonpit Magician, pulling the hammer back for a swing, and…! “Heh, truly trying to silence my performance with that. However, not this time!” Daichi ran off, giving a whistle to Oafdragon and Rapid-Fire to quickly follow him. He then found what he needed...an Action Card just hanging near one of the little ship fins. Running off the side, he held his hand out and immediately Oafdragon Magician caught it, flying him over towards it. In an instant, the ivory magician grabbed the card and added it to his hand. Once they were back on the ship, he immediately played it. “Action Card - Starry Night! This turn, all face-up Spells and Traps cannot be destroyed.” Once he played it, a shimmering set of stars seemed to shoot across where Dragonpulse Magician remained, protecting it from Megapola. “A valiant effort, but I believe that’s as much as you’ll be able to do there...and now, since I activated a Spell...to be accurate, a Normal Spell in the form of an Action Card, Rapid-Fire Magician’s skill activates.” The magician holding two scepters moved slightly for a moment, having various amounts of colored fiery orbs floating around him and the scepters. “Whenever I activate a Normal Spell, with him, I can inflict 400 points of damage to my opponent! Now, do your thing, Rapid-Fire!!” Rapid-Fire Magician nodded and began to wave the scepters in his hands, the fiery orbs dancing around him before being launched towards Honey, colliding and taking the damage out. Honey: 3300 -> 2900 LP “And with that, I shall end my turn!” Daichi declared with a nod. “Ahh, so that’s your strategy. I was wondering, but that’s pretty neat. Guess I have to take that out first!” Honey grinned as she drew for turn, looking over the board. “I Special Summon the Megatanus I drew from my hand, banishing Megabilis from grave for it!” As she placed the card on the disk, a black mech, not unlike Grand Chariot, appeared, though it stood not much taller than Micpolar and brandished a bow. It took aim at Rapid-Fire Magician, pulling the string back… and letting its arrow shoot true, flipping the monster to face-down defense! “When it enters, we’ll turn that burn off for now! On to battle! Megatanus, destroy the set Rapid-Fire Magician!” With a slight grit of his teeth, Daichi watched as Rapid-Fire Magician was attacked and destroyed by Megatanus. Luckily he didn't lose Life Points from that attack, but even still, that was an impressive move. He looked around for a moment, before finding another Action Card nearby. “Bingo!” he said, rushing towards the card. “Next up, Megapolar is going to destroy Oafdragon! Arctic Crusher!” “I don’t think so!” Daichi shouted, playing the Action Card he just picked up. “Action Card - Debris Shield! This prevents the destruction of one monster I control only once!” Soon a small shield of falling debris appeared before Oafdragon Magician and protected him from the incoming attack of Megapola. Or so he thought... “Useless! I activate Action Spell - Eclipse Event! During this battle phase, all action spells have their effects negated! Finish it off, Megapolar!” "W-What?! That's a trick I wasn't expecting!" he exclaimed, basically watching the shield of falling debris immediately vanish from in front of Oafdragon Magician. Daichi slightly gritted his teeth again, before attempting to outrun the incoming attack. Unfortunately, this put him at a huge disadvantage...now that he couldn't use any Action Cards during the Battle Phase. The attack struck true and it blew Daichi back quite a bit in the process. “Now, finish it off, Micpolar, Grand Chariot!” The two mechs mobilized at her command, Honey riding the synchro straight toward Daichi! The polar bear rammed him, then Grand Chariot’s scythe grazed him, knocking him down, and ending the duel. The area filled with the sound of clapping, and a bit of cheers. Nothing like a fully packed stadium, but enough to give Honey a little bit of warmth. As Daichi’s LP fell to 0, the area had lights appear around Honey as she rode Grand Chariot, showcasing her as the winner. The screens that showed their duel showcased such as well, while she stepped down to the ground, the duel fading away. Walking over to Daichi, she extended her hand and smiled softly. “Sorry if that was a bit… brutal. I actually thought you were really entertaining, good game!” The ivory magician simply was dusting himself off before extending his hand in response, a wide smile on his face. "Alas, my first Duel was one setting in loss...but, against someone like you, who was able to entertain and showcase to the audience in such a manner, I happily accept it. A truly entertaining game, miss Honey." Daichi smiled before holding her hand up high, practically doing a curtain call bow with her. "Ladies and gentlemen! Let's hear it for your victor in this Duel: Honey Froswald!" To this the audience began to cheer about this and once it was time for Daichi to take his leave, he exited the Duel field and made it to the locker room in order to change...taking the hat off, he simply looked at it. The smile on his face showed he had a fun time, to show that he enjoyed such an amazing Action Duel...but what laid underneath that smile? Was it...a bit of frustration? Sadness? No one but Daichi would know the answer to this.

Interview 3 - Ukemei Ayane by Yui

Interview 2 - Christina Yates by Comrade Duck

Dark Scorpion Motivator Continuous Spell During damage calculation: DARK Warrior monsters you control gain 500 ATK. When "Don Zaloog" and "Dark Scorpion" monsters you control deal Battle Damage: You can activate all of their listed effects (if applicable). Cards sent to the GY by the effect of "Don Zaloog" and "Dark Scorpion" monsters you control are banished face-down instead. I'm certain I messed up some grammar there, but the gist of the card is giving your Dark Scorpions more damage output, giving you access to both of their effects and making cards sent to the GY less advantageous to your opponent. Would this be enough to make the Dark Scorpions viable after almost 17 years? Absolutely not, but they're an archetype I have fond memories of and felt like drawing up a card for them. Open to suggestions and ideas in any case.

 "Alright Kazo, FINISH IT!!" "Your new world isn't needed! Instead of being a coward and running away from the problems of this world, you should have used your power to help save those around you. If you can't do something so simple, you can't do something as great as creating a new world! That's why people like us, people that chase the light of a better tomorrow, will never lose to the likes of you! DRACO METEOR!" There was a huge spot in his heart that almost roared out in joy seeing the combination and practically the finale in terms of moves. From Randy’s perspective, those two had a hell of a future ahead of them...and this would be something he’d definitely see if he could assist with. Nevertheless, the Houndoom...like those who came before him...was stubborn as a Tauros. "I won't accept this. With all the power I feel burning inside me you should be nothing. No. No...it can't be. This wasn't all of it. There must be more! I know there's more of the Creator God's power to be used! You forced my hand...I have to bring it all out. Every. Last. Drop. And then you all will be burned to ash!" “Tch...man, you lot just don’t give up whatsoever!” Randy shook his head, about to make a move...but the dark flames arced around the Houndoom...before something else happened...he...was gone. The fire died down and he was nothing but...ashes. “...E kuʻu akua...” he simply said, never before seeing a gijinka succumb to their own flames like that. It was almost...too much...and since he’d been here on Adarid, he’d seen a lot. “...I guess...mission accomplished? We won?” As the silence grew around them, she finally awoke… "I am...so sorry. ..... And to start I must reward you. The noble Gijinka who came all this way to protect your world. Come to me and speak your wish and I shall grant it be in my power. Even my powers have limits. I cannot bring the dead to life. But I shall do my best to see you justly rewarded for your brave actions." Randy thought a moment, trying to figure out what he’d do. A wish was...just not something he was expecting. He took the challenge to get stronger...but then again, one didn’t just save a Legend every day...well...counting on his fingers this would’ve been the fourth Legendary he helped along the way. But specifically the Creator? THAT was something else! Alright, I know what wish I want… Randy thought, prepared to say his wish, but Keanu spoke ahead of him. "I want help. Help to bring us back to our home, and help to fight off the Beasts that took it from us. Maybe it's too big a wish for one gijinka to make, but that's what I want." Well, better echo to that wish… he shrugged. "Arceus? ...that is pretty much a general wish we share..." Randy stepped forward. "Is it at all possible for this to happen?" "I promised to help you all and that includes those regions in danger. I do not know what this threat is but I will not let it be." "...something tells me that won't be right now though...right?" "No war ends in a day...and do not get it wrong this will be a war...But I believe you have another dream do you not? One that will bring much needed joy to the people here. Both native and refugee alike." The Incineroar was met with stunned silence, but then again...this was literally the Creator...so of course, had the clear view in his head. He sighed, rubbing the back of his head albeit sheepishly, before looking away slightly. “...guess you’ve got a point. I suppose, if this will take a while...” he said, before looking a bit more determined. “I want to have the survivors of Alola be directed here to the region of Adarid. If anything...the least I can do to give plenty of joy to this place...and an outlet for some...is to have them bring the Professional Pokémon Gijinka Wrestling Federation here...and have their new arena in the capital!” he flashed a smirk, nodding. “It’ll be perfect!” "As I believe it there's a man who calls himself emperor who claims to rule over the land. From what I've seen he has not done much ruling...Yes, I believe his mansion is in a suitable location for something like that." "I'll be honest, if you think that spot is the prime location for this..." Randy smiled, taking a small bow. "Then I shall definitely accept the suggestion and take it, Arceus." She nodded her head. "It shall be done." “Heh...thank you Arceus.” Randy said, grinning from ear to ear. It had been a hell of a time since Randy took that step onto that boat to escape those monsters that plagued Alola and his journey through Adarid. His life ended up changing for the better, least be thought so. Keanu, Nani, and Marie...these three were put in his life, he figured, for a reason...more so than just surviving the onslaught on Alola. He figured...this was something more or less dealing with the wills of the Sun and the Moon, maybe even the Guardians of Alola themselves. Regardless of this being true or not, Randy would always accept this as being the truth. But it wasn't just the journey and the time with his newfound friends that changed him. It was Adarid itself. The challenge of the Chasers with fighting Legends and even going toe to toe with the Godslayers, the encounters made him stronger and wiser than when he left. And when all was said and done he was able to return home…he found he couldn’t return to his home of Alola. According to Solgaleo, Randy was told that their home was still in shambles...but at the same time, a good portion of those from the islands made their trek here to Adarid, which made the Incineroar tremendously happy, which was his wish from Arceus. And from the sounds of it, a good portion of the PPGWF had made their stay in this region, even being allowed to use the capital’s arena for their matches, also thanks to his wish from Arceus. At the end of it, however, Randy found himself staying at the very beach that he and his friends entered Adarid in: Northshore. Something about it just felt like home to him...even being an Incineroar...he was still an islander at heart. What was more, was how he had Charlie back with him and how he even had his step-father and trainer give quite the run around for Denku, after telling him how he'd be great to addition to a wrestling team with the display he and Kazo had as Team Paragon. This also meant that since Randy wasn’t leaving for Alola at the moment, this would give the brothers time to see their own friends and family. All seemed to be going good now...a new start for the Incineroar...however, this would be far from the only start he’d have. On a trip to better find himself and even train alone, Randy stumbled upon someone, almost like a divine intervention by Arceus herself. A disheveled older Shiny Incineroar, who looked at the young man with such a fire within his eyes. Before Randy stood exactly who he had idolized all those years ago and to the present day: Sol Mask, rather, as he had been known by now, Solomon. From his wrestling idol, Randy learned that after the match where he was forced to retire, he left Alola in order to live his own life and to not be continually reminded about the failure he became during that match. Solomon would speak with Randy for quite some time, wanting to know what he was fighting for and for whom. He could tell Randy was conflicted, through his journey and life, he had tried to become someone who not only adhered to his father's legacy of a fighter, but also to make sure Sol Mask was avenged. But now, he was unsure of everything, except a few things: he had to make sure his father's legacy continued through him…and to be the Face of the PPGWF, so others can be inspired by him, just like he was inspired by Sol Mask. Of course, this answer made Solomon smile. "...wish to inspire others as I did? Spoken like a true Face. And you called yourself a Heel." Solomon scoffed, shaking his head. "Randy Roarton...I have been waiting to meet someone that would want to do exactly as I did, namely inspire a new generation. I believe that you, young Incineroar, may be that someone. Would you be willing to let me pass my own legacy to you? It'll be a tough road ahead, but I believe you might be able to become my successor." Randy was speechless, now in shock that his idol was talking about having him of all gijinka become his successor. It was an honor and a dream come true! To be trained and learn from Sol Mask himself. Humbly, the young Incineroar accepted this offer and responsibility. He would train for quite a few years before fully returning from his training. Then...there was only one thing left to do... Randy Roarton: The Successor A roar of the crowd came from within the Adarid arena, as another match concluded with the PPGWF, having Torrent beat another challenger who dared attempt for his crown. Apparently moving to Adarid was a huge boost to the PPGWF, after all...a good portion of this region was battle fueled, so why wouldn’t they be amazed at this? Among the audience was Charlie, as well as Keanu, Nani, Marie and even Denku and Kazo who were brought there by one thing: a letter to each simply saying, "I'm finally back. -R.R." and to meet at the arena to watch the show. "Is there no one here worthy enough for me?" Torrent scoffed with a laugh, flicking his hair back. He enjoyed being bathed in the sounds of cheers, until he heard a roar come from the other side. Turning, he saw the familiar face of a Shiny Incineroar. "Oh my, my, my. Look what the Purrlion dragged in! Is it really you, Sol Mask? Arceus be damned, you look worse for wear old man." Solomon only growled. "Torrent…" he simply said, as the crowds became hushed in an instant, with chatter slowly coming as the two started one another down. "Try to come back to take your throne? I'm sorry, but I'm not fighting a hasbeen." Torrent waved him off dismissively. “And personally, not even I want to thrash your tail for a second time. I have standards...and even I don't want my own seconds.” "I'm not here to fight you...but I am here to watch someone else kick your shell." "Ehhh?" BGM Solomon moved, pointing upward before roaring in a loud, booming voice. "Ladies and gentlemen!! Here to fight your King comes a former Heel who made an unexpected Face turn! My successor…" he began to smirk. "SOL DARK!!!" At this, a second roar was heard from behind where Solomon stood. Soon a blur came running behind him and with a leap, it landed into the ring behind Torrent. To his surprise, it was none other than Randy Roarton, a bit older than when he left, but donned in a darker palette of Sol Mask's wrestling outfit. He pointed up in the air and let loose a loud roar, which definitely amped the crowd up quite a bit. Torrent, on the other hand, could only be found laughing at the spectacle. “Roarton?! So the little Litten who had big aspirations of beating me finally comes back after all this time? What a joke! What good will this Heel do against the Face of the PPGWF?” Randy turned to face Torrent, only smirking. "It's true. I took the route of the Heel to face you because of what you did to my hero. However...I've had a hell of a journey that only myself and a few friends of mine know all too well about here on Adarid." he pointed at the Blastoise, continuing on. "I've fought tougher opponents than you, ones I'm sure you'd never believe...but even with that, I'm standing here now...with a different outlook and a different reason to take you down.” “Oh please, do indulge me.” “Isn’t it obvious?” Randy asked, crossing his arms. “You’ve been lying to the crowds, claiming your their Face...when you’ve been acting more like a Heel than I have! And truth be told, someone like that shouldn’t stand in the spotlight meant for a Face and shouldn’t be the type of individual the younger generations can aspire to be like! So that’s why I’m taking you down. Not for revenge...but for the sole fact that the next generation needs someone that they can strive to be like...someone who isn’t you!” Torrent now had a death glare looking at Randy, rolling his shoulders slightly. “Fine then. I’ll play your game, kitten. But don’t come crying to me when you lose.” he smirked. Randy nodded, cracking his knuckles and neck some, exhaling sharply in the process. “By the way, if you're going to use a Z-Move...it better be a damage causing one...cause if it isn’t...then you’ll regret it.” he said plainly, seeing the Blastoise’s face twist in disgust at this being brought up. “That Z-Haze probably won’t be helping much...sorry.” Both competitors stared each other down, waiting...until the bell finally rang. Torrent made the first move, launching a Water Pulse straight at the Incineroar, who ended up using Acrobatics to dodge the strike with ease. “Learned a new trick, have we?” Torrent scoffed, firing another Water Pulse. “Not like it’ll help you!” Randy stood now in the path of a Water Pulse, much to everyone’s shock. The Incineroar didn’t look the least bit scared of this and it was apparent why. He was already in the process of firing off a quick Fire Blast which then collided with the Water Pulse, which caused quite a bit of steam to accumulate in the process, much to the crowd’s excitement. The steam provided quite the cover for Torrent who rushed headfirst into the steam to shoulder check Randy, who seemed to anticipate this but nevertheless just stood there, blocking the check. With Torrent this close, it was the perfect time then. The Incineroar smirked and grabbed the Blastoise and began to perform a suplex. “Heat Dome Drop!” Randy shouted, performing the move and quickly getting up, smirking as he thought of Heatran. “Heh, like that? Named that one after a friend of mine in Trailsau.” Torrent got up as quick as he could, now launching an Aura Sphere at Randy. “Aura Sphere? Huh, surprised you kept that one hidden!” Randy laughed heartily, dodging out of the way with ease. “Trust me, you aren’t a Lucario with that move...and I’ve fought against a tough one too who was WAY faster.” Torrent and Randy could only stare at each other again, the crowds really worked up greatly at this. The Incineroar smirked, using his hand to beckon the Blastoise towards him. “C’mon.” With a yell, Torrent quickly fired in succession a Water Pulse and Dark Pulse, just like he did with Sol Mask all those years ago. It was obvious to Randy, that him getting in the Blastoise’s head actually was working. Randy exhaled and fired off another Fire Blast, doing his best to hold back the combination move, but an explosion was imminent, which knocked Randy back against the ropes. Quite a few gasps were heard in the process, as Torrent now began to strut his way towards the Incineroar. “Tch...worthless. Call yourself a Face? Learn your place!” Torrent shouted, spitting on the ground slightly. He then prepared another attack...one that the whole crowd watched, as it wasn’t very subtle this time. “Z-Move...Haze.” he sighed, his wounds now healing as the Z-Energy flowed around him. “To think, you of all people would remember or even notice such an insignificant detail. And I did my damnedest to pay off the staff there that day. I guess you were present in the match to know that...” Torrent shook his head, beginning to walk away. Then came quite a few sounds from the audience he never expected to hear: the sound of them booing him and even hating him. After all this time, now they decide to turn against him? Ridiculous! “H-Hehe...they’ve finally seen your true colors.” a voice behind Torrent emerged, as Randy now began to stand back up, much to the crowd’s delight. “And your right...I was there. I watched it, I watched you beat down my idol, a young Torracat...sitting in the old PPGWF’s stadium. That’s what started me down my path...and Sol Mask there took me and was able to assist where I faltered and stumbled...hell! My friends I have here definitely were able to help me when I faltered. One was even more of an adult than I was...” he paused, thinking of the countless ear-pulls he got from Marie, causing him to smile and without knowing it he was even rubbing his left ear some. “...but tonight...tonight I’m ending this! This was started on Alola...and it’s ending here in Adarid!” Torrent began to grit his teeth, staring at the Incineroar before spitting to the side. “...you’re acting just like him...” he said, now glaring at Solomon. “If he would’ve taken the deal I proposed to him...if he would’ve...” “Taken the fall?” Randy piped in, crossing his arms. “He told me what happened. He told me specifically what you and how you Buzieled your way to this point. How you even were able to bribe the referees and some of the staff...a manipulator to the very end. And I have a sneaking suspicion, you’d even offer this to me.” The Blastoise turned his attention back to Randy, now glaring fully at him. “...you take the fall, right here...right now...and I’ll give you a position up there in the major leagues. Hell, I’ll give you all the fame you’d ever need and more. Otherwise, you might just be sent to the streets! You’ll be a no-named nobody! And for what?! The same thing as him?! YOUR PRIDE?!” These were the words he needed to hear right now. Randy began to grin from ear to ear, before speaking in a pride filled voice. “DAMN RIGHT!! It’s right on the ten, shellhead. With a title like mine...I can’t remain silent.” he pointed upward, smirking. “When the spotlight is on me...heh...I do not Incine-purr...I do not Incine-meow...I, the Rising Star, Randy Roarton...no...I, Sol Dark...INCINEROAR!!!” At this, the crowds seemed to react greatly to it, immediately becoming an uproar of cheers and excitement. However, in Torrent’s eyes, he watched the last thing he said to Sol Mask before the match replay. Yet again, he found these words coming back to haunt him...and by this miserable little whelp of a Litten. “And you’ve used up your Z-Move...at the wrong time.” Torrent watched as Randy now began to glow greatly with Z-Energy, preparing his signature move. “Lemme just say this...heh, this type of revenge is sweet.” “D-Damn you!” Torrent yelled, firing off another Water and Dark Pulse. Randy used Acrobatics again to dodge, all the while, smirking. “These fists are pulsing dark! Their loud roar tells me to grasp victory!! And...at this moment, they tell me to forge forth my new path!!” he roared, spinning a bit. “TAKE THIS! DARKEST LARIAT!!” he struck the Blastoise twice with his dark energy strikes, making sure to launch him as high as he could. “But I’m not done!!” Randy roared again, moving towards the ropes as he jumped high into the air, just below Torrent and kicked his back. But that wasn’t the end. The moment he started going down, he rocketed himself back up with fire as his propulsion and delivered a punch to his back with a strong Close Combat strike in succession. “This is my signature move...evolved!!” he shouted, falling down only to propel himself upward again. “MAX...MALICIOUS...MOONSAULT!!!” With the declaration heard, he began to rise over Torrent and slammed head first into his gut, causing the Blastoise to get the wind knocked out, as both now made a fiery descent towards the ring...which all culminated in an explosion. When the explosion cleared, the crowds were hushed. On the mat saw Torrent, knocked out cold and standing over top of him...Randy. He was breathing heavily, still not used to this version of his Z-Move, apparently...but at the same time, he could feel the gaze of the audience staring at him hard. Right now, it was the moment of truth: would Randy act more Face like and not land another blow on the already knocked out Torrent? Or would he kick him while he was down like any Heel would’ve done? The very thought of the latter option had been one Randy had always wanted, considering the hell this Blastoise put him through. Nevertheless, under the eye of the audience, the Incineroar moved back some, pointed upwards and roared loudly. A roar from the crowd erupted in response. This match was over and Randy was the victor! The Incineroar looked over, seeing Solomon only nod and give him a thumbs up. With this, his guard was down and he was tackled from behind, being brought in a headlock by Charlie, who was grinning from ear to ear. “HAHA! THAT’S MY BOY!” he laughed, digging his fist playfully into Randy’s head, making the latter laugh in response. Though when he looked up again to find Solomon...the Shiny Incineroar was nowhere to be seen. Randy only took this as a sign that there was nothing more for him to learn, that this was the moment where Sol Mask’s journey ended and where Sol Dark’s journey was just beginning. ...thank you...Sol Mask...your legacy will definitely live on through your successor.

After Mac finished speaking, a small Litleo scurried forward. "You always beat me to the punch," he complained, but his jovial tone took the bite away from his words. Turning to look up at Arceus, the smile slid from his face as he remembered her earlier statement. His chest had tightened upon seeing the blue-haired girl get her mother to live, but that was just saving an existing life. Once they were dead... "I understand," Ari said solemnly in a continuation of what the legendary had said earlier. "To bring back the dead would be going against the Circle of Life. I was taught that much at home." His father, especially, as the God of Life's Disciple, had made sure that stuck, but it didn't make the fact any less painful. The mere memory was enough to bring on a wave of emotion that he could only hold back with some difficulty. Regaining his composure--because he was a prince, and that was what princes did--the Litleo blinked, straightening his shoulders. "What I wish for is..." before, he would've wished to be strong enough to make everybody proud of him, and he still wanted that, but he didn't think it right to get that through a wish. In the end, he was only as strong as he made himself. "That everybody in Pride Rock may live in peace," his words grew uncharacteristically formal as he drew himself up with rare dignity. "That the divide that stands between lion and non-lion goes away. But I don't think that's something you can wish for either." He smiled sadly. "That kind of result can only be brought about by gijinka working together to achieve it. At least, that's what I believe." His smile brightened, and he was the normal Ari again. "So in the end, I guess I wish for nothing. I guess I just came here and wasted your time, huh?" But as he walked back, he paused, turning around. "Oh wait! I did think of something! If you could repair the damage done to Pride Rock, that'd be great. Mom said they're still trying to repair it." His smile widened. "So I guess I do have a wish, after all." -- No bringing back the dead, then? I expected as much, but still... If Easter had a choice, that would have been his wish. To bring back the Eevee child...but perhaps it was for the best this way. They had been dead for years, after all. He was glad that Dora got her wish granted, though. He had been worried about how she would react once her mother died. At least Brooke is here and would've been there for her. And me too. Denku as well, perhaps. The Sylveon hung back till most of the others had been granted their wishes. Because he didn't know what he wanted. That was the problem. To be granted a wish...it felt so cheap. He had always done things through his own power, if one left aside the fact that most of his moves relied on the power of the cosmos, so technically... And I'm stalling. I honestly...don't know. Eventually, he knew he had to do something, so he stepped forward. "My wish...I don't know," he said plainly. "I still don't know where I'm going, or what I'm going to do." This was the most honest he had been in a long time. "But I don't think I want to just waste a wish either." He tilted his head, thinking. That Litleo had a nice idea. Repairing his home. For a second, he thought about asking that for Deku, but, remembering the proud tilt to the heads of the town survivors, he changed his mind. No, rebuilding is the work of ordinary gijinka. We take pride in producing results with our own power. Which meant that was out. So then something that would aid his goals? But he didn't even know what those were anymore. For the longest time, he had wanted to grow stronger, no, to be the strongest. But now that didn't seem to matter anymore. Protection, that's what mattered. But he still wasn't good enough for that yet either. If he wanted to be able to protect others, he had to train further. These last battles had shown him that much. So perhaps, going off of that, he didn't need to amend his initial goals that much. He had to become stronger so he could protect others. In which case, he could continue on the path he had set himself on all those years ago. "I think I know what I want now. I thought that I had been wrong before, in wanting to gain strength, but I wasn't. I just wanted it for the wrong reasons." He smiled gratefully at Dora, Brooke, and Denku, who had helped him to reconcile himself with that notion. And that last conversation with Nine had been enlightening as well. "So I will be stronger, but that's not my wish. Instead," his blue eyes lit up with mischief. "My wish is that you set aside some time in the future for a match. One of the best ways to grow stronger is to fight strong opponents, and I can think of no one stronger than you." He winked. Afterward, the Sylveon swaggered back to his place, grinning like the Delcatty that got the cream. Until he realized what he could've wished for, and his face turned as long as a Rapidash. Damn, I could've wished for a year's supply of sweets, or even better...limitless sweets! It was too late now though. Oh well. Getting to fight Arceus was a once-in-a-lifetime chance. He could get sweets anytime, so he had to just stay strong. No matter how tempting they sounded. -- Keanu knew right away what he wanted to wish for, and he didn't waste any time when he came up for his turn. "I want help," he said flatly. "Help to bring us," he nodded at Randy, Marie, and Nani, "back to our home, and help to fight off the Beasts that took it from us." He looked back up at Arceus. "Maybe it's too big a wish for one gijinka to make, but that's what I want. Other than that...well, I can't think of any other kind of wish." Maybe a girlfriend? But no, that wasn't really a priority. Though, speaking of wahine... "Actually, I thought of something. I'd like it if you could repair the damage done to Kalia's mind, though I don't know if you can..." But if the god could repair physical damage, then couldn't she repair emotional or mental damage as well? "I know it's probably hard to forgive her for joining in with the Godslayers, but I don't think she was in her right mind." Keanu turned to the other Alolans. "Kalia...you've heard of her, right? She was quite famous back on Alola. Well, she managed to arrive in Adarid as well, but unlike us, she was alone... And so she decided to follow that evil Houndoom, believing it was the only way to go back to Alola. I wasn't able to convince her otherwise, but I can't just leave her alone either. She's an Alolan, like us. It feels wrong to leave her like this." Had it been him who had washed up on Adarid alone, he was sure he would've turned out similarly. And so, he couldn't really blame the Sandslash for what she had done, even though she had almost killed him. Yes. They were going to go home to Alola. All of them. Nobody would be left behind. Epilogues ==== Ariel: The Wise ==== "Hey, um...Jabari?" Ari approached the Zebstrika nervously, hands clasped together. "I, uh, need your help with something. I know it's probably not right for me to ask you of this, after everything we've done to your people, but..." he took a deep breath, and then looked the former Godslayer in the eye. "I don't think I can do this without you." -- "Your Highness! I've been looking everywhere for you!" Zago panted. "I had thought the worst, but I'm glad that isn't the case." "Yeah, I'm glad to be back too, Zago," the Litleo smiled before his expression turned serious. He turned to the Zebstrika behind him with a nod. "Because there's a lot to be done." -- "They won't approve, you know," his mother said, eyes sad as she watched her son go through paperwork. He was far too young to be tackling such a serious issue. "I know they won't. But I don't care. They won't approve because it takes away their privilege," Ariel, formerly known as Ari, snorted. "Well, we all saw where that lead us. If you tell somebody he's not as good as somebody else because he wasn't born a lion, well, you're just lying to them. And I know this much: lying is bad. Because of that lie, my uncle got my father killed, and himself as well. The God of Life almost died too." He shook his head. "Jabari's working hard on his end. I have to uphold my end as well." "I understand," the queen smiled. "I'm proud of you, Ariel." "I know. Thanks, Mom." -- "We did it," Ariel turned to Jabari with tears in his eyes. "We did it." He held up the stone slate, admiring the writing on it as he turned it this way and that. "It's set in stone now. This is the new law of the jungle." "They're waiting for you," Jabari nodded. The scarred warrior's countenance had changed; the ice had thawed from his blue eyes and his stance had relaxed. To the side, his younger sister Dalia stood, staring proudly at the two who had just made history. "No..." Ariel shook his head. "They're waiting for us. All of us. I couldn't have done this without you, Jabari." He smiled sadly. "I know this cannot make up for years of oppression, but I'd like to think it's a step in the right direction." "You did what I couldn't do before...for Dalia," the Zebstrika said. "You're a true hero." "I don't know about that. I think if anybody here is the hero, it's you," Ariel said honestly as he turned to the former Godslayer. "Your suffering pushed you into the abyss, but you crawled your way back out of that, protecting me and the other children from that Lucario. Not just anybody could do that." "Yeah, accept it, big brother. You're a hero, and not just to me anymore, but to everybody." "Me, a hero?" Jabari looked disbelieving for a second, face turning serious as he mulled it over. Eventually, he nodded, mouth quirking into a small, genuine smile. "I think...I can start believing that now." -- The Pyroar stood at the tip of the rock that gave Pride Rock its name. Next to him stood Jabari, and to the side, Zago, Dalia, and his mother the former Queen Leah. On the ground below stood a multitude of gijinka. Lions rubbed shoulders with zebras, and giraffes stood at attention next to hyenas. While there were still some who kept to their own kind, they were the minority and not the majority. The lion's chest swelled up in pride at the sight. "Thank you, everybody, for being here," he smiled. "This day is an auspicious one. Not just for me as king but for you all as well. Today marks the first year anniversary since we implemented the Gijinka Rights Act. As you all know, this act marked a change in our history. A change for the better. Before, we were divided, but now, we are one. Lions do not stand above zebras, and hyenas are no longer considered outcast." He paused as the crowd cheered below him. "When this Act was first made, many of you were skeptical. Many of you thought that it couldn't be done, that centuries of hatred and prejudice could not be wiped out overnight. And you were right," his expression turned sober. "This is not the work of a single year, but a lifetime...no, many lifetimes. When this day has passed, the fanfare has died, and you return to your homes, you must keep what you have heard here in mind. Because equality is not made in glamorous speeches, but in the actions that we make each and every day." "When I was younger, I never dreamed that I would set my mind to this issue. For me, it wasn't an issue because it was normal. Well, that 'normal' is no longer normal. I say this: the new normal is equality!" another cheer. "And though I never dreamed that I would do this as king, now that it has been done, I couldn't be prouder. I say here and now, I cannot think of anything nobler, or more important, than what we all worked together to achieve one year past. What has been achieved is bigger than what a mere king could do. Because it is through all of your efforts that this has been made possible." As the crowd cheered once more, he smiled. "And though this day is equally small and insignificant in the grand scheme of things, I believe it should be celebrated. Because this day was when things started to move in a new direction for this land. Henceforth, this day shall be known as the Day of Equality." The people cheered, and the Pyroar's smile widened when he noticed a couple of familiar faces in particular among the crowd. They came. I'm so glad that they're here to see this. I wonder if Dad is watching from above as well? I can't help but think that he'd be proud of me, and what I've done here. And to think it had all started when he ran away from home. Though that choice had brought its share of sorrows, he couldn't bring himself to regret it, or the friends and family he made along the way. ==== Easter: The Guardian ==== "It's good to see you again, Dora. Sorry, Brooke couldn't be here. She's busy getting her shop set up right now. I'm here on her behalf though!" "Easter! Did you bring any candy? No, wait, I should get YOU candy!" "I brought some, you little scamp," Easter pinched her cheek--ignoring the nearby guard's look of shock--before bringing out a wrapped candy and presenting it to the Quagsire to take. "This is a Rare Candy. It's supposed to be super tasty and help you grow big and strong." "Yay! But we already saved the world do I need to get even stronger?" "Well, there's nothing wrong with being strong. And I heard it tastes pretty good too!" "Then I'll take it! Hey, hey, do you want to meet my mama?" "I think I've already met her, but sure," the fairy type replied with some amusement. When he saw the queen, he almost didn't recognize her, so different was she than the bedridden woman from before. Now, the woman appeared the very picture of health, with a regal bearing befitting her status as she smiled down at the Sylveon. "Easter! It's been a while. Thank you for coming to visit Dora. She's been a little lonely." Easter smiled back, the smile widening when he heard the Quagsire's confused sounds in the background. "I'm always happy to see Dora. And I'm pleased to see you're doing well, too." "Yes, I have much to be thankful to Arceus for. And to Dora, for thinking of me. I couldn't ask for a better daughter." "And she couldn't ask for a better mother," the Sylveon replied, tone slightly wistful. -- "Do you think...this is a good idea?" Morgan asked the gijinka next to her. Her big brother, who had, for her sake, decided to visit their parents in Northshore. "No, I think it's a terrible one," Easter replied flatly. "But I said I'd visit, and I'm not one to break my promises." He stared at the front door of the house he had grown up in as he shifted from foot to foot. "Oh, look, Lewis dear, the prodigal son has returned," a Flareon sniffed. Though she had aged much since the last time he had seen her, Easter knew her right away. There was no mistaking that disdainful expression. "Son? I have no son, Catherine," the Espeon at her side replied. "Just a disgrace for a daughter." The Eevee shrunk beneath his gaze. "Stop that," Easter snapped, moving forward. "You should be ashamed of yourselves. I don't care what you think about me, but Morgan loves you both and works hard for your sake. Can't you two see that?" "All I see is a disgraceful girl who chooses to associate with riffraff and ruffians. Not to mention," the man stared at Easter's clothes in disgust, "homosexuals." "Just because somebody dresses like this, doesn't mean they're homosexual," the Sylveon snapped. "I happen to be so, yes, but that has nothing to do with my fashion choices." "Regardless, you're not welcome here in Northshore. Leave, before I call the militia on you!" Easter stared at the man in disbelief. "It's been years, and you won't change your mind? At all?" "Of course not! It's obvious you haven't changed one bit since you left!" his mother cut in fiercely. The Sylveon shook his head. "No, you're the ones who haven't changed." He sighed. "I did expect this, though." He turned around, looking back. "All right, I'll go. But you should listen to what I said before about Morgan." "Get out of here. Now." The Espeon glared at the fairy type. "Come now, Morgan, let's get you inside. I cannot believe you. I knew we should've stopped you from associating with those Alolan savages from before. Ever since you met them, you've become so willful." The Eevee stared up at her mother for a few long seconds before shaking her head. "No." "I beg your pardon?" "No, I'm not going inside. I've had enough." Her lip wobbled. "I love Northshore, and the people here, but I want to explore the world too! I know that there's so much more beyond this town, and I want to see it! I'll come back when I'm done, though. Promise!" "You don't know what you're saying!" "She knows exactly what she's saying," Easter corrected. "So it's your fault!" Lewis snapped, whipping around. "I should've known you'd have put her up to this!" "No, this decision was all Morgan's. And it's your own fault for not realizing what your own daughter wants." Easter turned away from the pair, unable to bear looking at them any longer. "Come on, Morgan. Let's go." -- "You're sure of this then?" Easter asked, gazing at his newly-evolved kid sister. "Yeah," Morgan nodded. "I'm sure. I've grown stronger traveling with you and helping you fight legendaries--even if I usually get knocked out right away--but I can't rely on you forever. I want to strike out on my own. Maybe see if I can find Marie! You'd like her, she's super cool and awesome and--!" "I'm sure I would," the Sylveon interrupted. "Do you want me to accompany you until you find her then?" The Flareon beamed up at him. "Nah, that's fine. I told ya, I've gotta grow stronger by myself. And you don't have time to be getting off track anyway. Don't you have that delivery to make for Brooke?" "Ah, you're right," Easter frowned. "And I don't think she'd be too happy if it were late either." "See? Don't worry about me. You've got enough to worry about on your end." The Flareon nudged his shoulder. "Go on then. I'll see you sometime, big bro!" "Fine, fine, take care of yourself, all right?" -- Easter stared at the children running down the streets of the newly rebuilt Deku. Barefoot, and in ragged clothes that barely covered their skeletal frames, they looked as if one good gust would blow them right over. "Kinda sad, huh?" Brooke said, walking up behind him. "You'd think it's Thundurus's fault, but Deku's always been this way. A lot of kids get thrown out 'cause nobody wants 'em." She sighed. "It's not the worst. They'll band together, join a good gang if they're lucky. That's really the only way they'll survive around here." The Sylveon didn't reply for a long time. He couldn't help but see the faces of the children he knew superimposed over theirs. Dora, Fawkes, Morgan...if they had been forced to live like that... "The only way, huh...?" he clenched his fists. "I don't want to believe that. These children deserve better than that." -- Easter stared out at the waves from the crow's nest. Being back on the S.S. Showdown again with the old crew, even if just for a reunion, felt bittersweet. "I heard you turned down becoming a Disciple." A familiar voice called out from behind. Easter twitched, turning to the gijinka he had once thought of as his one and only. "News gets around." "Of course. It's not every day a gijinka completes the Chaser challenge, and then turns around and denies an offer like that. Why'd you do it?" "Because, I don't want to be the strongest anymore, John," the Sylveon said softly. "I have a different goal now. I want to protect others. And I think I found out how I'm going to do that." -- There it was. Easter stared at the finished building with pride. It had taken a lot of effort and money, but it was finally complete. The first orphanage of Deku, and perhaps Adarid as a whole. With this, those kids wouldn't have to grow up on the streets. They could hopefully live normal lives with people who cared about them. "Thanks for helping with this, Brooke," Easter said, turning to the Emboar beside him. "I don't think I'd have gotten this thing built and funded without you." Brooke wouldn't hear of it. "If anything I should be thanking you. The least I can do for those kids is throw some poke at someone who actually wants to HELP them." She gave him a friendly nudge. "I wish I'd had someone like you around when I was growing up. Kids shouldn't have to raise themselves." The Sylveon chuckled bashfully. "Ahh, well, I'm glad to help. I know this won't solve all their problems, and I can't help all the kids of the world, but, I want to help those I can." It didn't matter that he wasn't related to them. The blood of the covenant was thicker than the water of the womb, after all. He had seen that firsthand with his own parents. Hopefully, he could do better with these kids than his parents had with him. -- "Hey, ya 'aven't paid yer taxes. There's a fee t'own a buildin' in this area, see?" a thuggish-looking Arbok sneered at a young Teddiursa gijinka standing outside the orphanage. The child backed up, his eyes tearing at the corners, but he found he couldn't go any further, since the rest of the kids that had snuck out to play were huddled behind him. "Yeah, yeah, what bro said," a Weezing gijinka agreed as he flexed his muscles. "An' if ya can't pay, well, ya can just work the debt off!" "Or they can go back to what they were doing, and you can go back to what you were doing before you so rudely threatened my young charges," a soft, feminine-sounding voice said. The thugs turned toward the sound. The Weezing sneered. "Oh yeah? An' yer gonna make us? Yer nuthin' more than a--wow!" his eyes almost bugged out of his head when he saw who had spoken. "Woman, whaddaya say to leavin' this dump an' comin' with me an' my bro here?" The speaker, a pretty Sylveon, smiled at him. "Sorry, but I'm not interested. Unless, of course," she cracked her knuckles, "that outing involves my fist meeting your gut. Then I'll gladly agree," her smile turned even more angelic. As the two paled, she continued speaking. "Think of it this way. You're lucky Brooke wasn't the one that caught you two, or you'd be even worse off. Then again, I'd like to think I'm pretty merciless as well," she giggled. "By the way, I'm a boy. Idiots," the last word dripped with contempt. He turned back toward the children, a gentler smile on his face. "Go inside and wash up for dinner now, kids. This won't take long at all." -- "When I grow up, I want to be a princess like Cousin Dora!" "When I grow up, I want to run a shop like Auntie Brooke!" "Well, when I grow up, I want to beat up bad guys while wearing a dress like Papa does!" "Copycat!" "No, you are!" "No, you!" "All right, settle down, everybody. You're all copycats," Easter snickered. "No, we aren't!" "Get him!" "Papa, I'll show you how strong I can be!" The Sylveon chuckled as the kids stopped their squabbling, working together to dogpile him. His path had taken many turns, some he had never expected, but he didn't regret a single bit of it. He had finally found it--a purpose in life. His reason to live. ==== Keanu: The Wave ==== Keanu stared out across the ocean from his position on the banks of Northshore, singing softly to himself. "Somewhere, beyond the sea, somewhere waitin' for me...Alola stands on golden sands, and watches the ships...that go sailin'." "Are you thinking of home?" a familiar voice caused him to turn, the song cut off. Standing there was Lunala, expression wistful. The Raichu was certain his expression matched hers. "Ae," he affirmed. "I can't help but miss it, after all. I know Arceus said she'd help, but..." "It's normal to doubt, and normal to hope," the legendary replied. "I too, worry that we might not be able to return." "Well, if we do return, then home will be a sight for sore eyes, that's for sure." He had grown fond of Adarid, even with its strange culture of fighting, but it wasn't home. Home was where the heart was, and his still lay in Alola. -- "There it is," Keanu whispered to himself from his position on the bow of the boat. "Home." His eyes began to water, but he blinked away the tears before they could form. It wouldn't do for the others to think he'd gone soft or something. Not when he'd already proven to be one of the weakest of them all. Passing out not just once, but twice in that battle against the Godslayers did not do good things for his rep. "I didn't think I'd get to see it again," he said, turning to the others on the boat. "Alola, in all its glory." It looked almost like a cloudbank resting atop the waves, but Keanu knew that was no cloud, but an island, and one of many. But just because he could see it, didn't mean he could return there. Not permanently, anyway. They had to first fight to reclaim the land from the Beasts that had taken over. His expression turned pained. I have to be ready to fight and face the Beasts that killed my family. Honestly, he wasn't sure he could do it, but it was too late for second thoughts now. -- The fighting was harsh. Keanu dove out of the way of a blast of energy, turning and firing back with a Thunderbolt. Panting for breath, he ducked behind a crumbled building. This is hard. Harder even than the Godslayer fights. At least then I only had to fight one enemy at a time. And I had others with me. He had gotten separated in the melee. A rookie mistake, but nobody ever said Keanu was skilled at fighting. He was no Randy, that was for sure. And there's another attack. Great. His position revealed, the Raichu jumped, using his psychic powers as extra leverage, and narrowly avoiding getting toasted in the process. He leaped onto a wave, toward the Beast that had just attacked him. Thankfully, he managed to hit, and he jumped down, kicking off of his opponent in the process. Just then, he froze, a prickle of fear running through him. What did I miss? A flash of light at the corner of his eyes caused him to turn, seeing a beam headed straight toward him. It was too close to avoid and too powerful to survive without major injuries. And then a storm of Swift stars arrived, redirecting the attack so it sailed past him instead. "This is not the first time I have had to save you," a blue-haired Sandslash hummed with some amusement as she landed at his side. "And it won't be the last time either," Keanu quipped. "Indeed," the woman nodded, holding her hand up as long claws grew out from it. "Shall we?" her face twisted into one of aggressive glee as she let out a manic laugh. "Those fools will rue the day they thought to challenge our might!" "Er...ae. Exactly," the Raichu agreed with less enthusiasm. "I'd really hoped Arceus would be able to cure you entirely, but I guess that was expecting too much," he muttered under his breath. "What was that?" the former Godslayer asked, distracted. "Nothing." "Good. Now let's tear these Beasts apart!" she giggled, the sound giving Keanu chicken skin. And not the pleasant kind either. How was it his luck that every single wahine he met since fleeing Alola was frigging terrifying? Even Marie had gotten scarier than when he last saw her. "Ae. Let's. Go, team." Once again, he couldn't help but thank Arceus, both literally and figuratively, that Kalia was on their side this time. -- "Guess my good looks are ruined," Keanu said as he glanced down at the bloody wound on his chest. "Won't be able to go around shirtless anymore. Minamina nō hoʻi. Too bad." He popped a Sitrus Berry in his mouth, ignoring the throbbing from his injury. He had grown used to that by now. At least his fighting skills had improved. Though there was no way they wouldn't, with the amount of fighting he had had to do. It was a nonstop battle for the most part once they reached Alola. And then, when they grew tired, they retreated back to Northshore. It was a pattern that the electric type had long adjusted to. Gone was the handsome youth with a lazy smile. In his place stood a man and warrior, body crisscrossed with scars and hair cropped close to his head. He'd had no choice but to cut it like that after it had caught on fire from one of the Beasts' attacks. His eyes were piercing and oftentimes glowing an unearthly blue through the usage of his psychic powers. But this was the choice he had made back then, that day when the four of them first fought the Lucario. To stand and fight, choosing to risk injury and death over safety and running away. For the longest time, he couldn't understand why his family had decided to give up their lives as they had, but now, he could. He had learned that some things, such as ohana, were worth more than one's own life. "Mom, Dad, Kai, I hope you're proud of me," he muttered. "One day, we'll win Alola back. And when that happens, I'll mark a gravestone for you all. I don't think I'll be able to find your bones, sadly, but I can at least hope you all made it to the other side safely." Keanu blinked, sending a Thunderbolt to the side where a Beast had been attempting to sneak up on him. Sighing, he backflipped to avoid an attack, touching down with one arm, balancing precariously for a second before flipping back to land adroitly on the ground. "Break time's over," he said as he summoned a large wave of water with practiced skill. "Time to fight again." And he would keep fighting. Again and again, as many times as it took to take back his homeland. The Raichu's expression softened as he turned to where the others were. The only reason he had made it this far was because of them. His ohana. Without them, he'd probably have given up. But because they were here, he could take heart and keep going. Ae. I chose to ride this wave, and I'll keep on riding it till the end.

Interview 1 - Thomasin Farros by Radio414

So they had to show off their quirks, and they had to take out these robots. Of course, some sort of show like this was to be expected on the first day, it only made sense considering the nature of the school. Some of the others went before her, although truth be told Natalia wasn't paying as much attention as some of the others. She just wanted to get this done and over with, to be honest. Still, it was hard not to be impressed by some of these quirks and their power. As that overexcited Kio kid finished, Natalia let out a sigh, stepping forwards. "Let's get this over with." She said, turning towards everyone. "The name's Natalia. Natalia Kemuri. But I guess you can all call me Cloaked Hero: Styxx, if we're getting all formal or whatever. My quirk is Smoke. It does what you think it does." She said, almost annoyed that she even had to explain all of this in front of everyone. Confidently, Natalia strolled towards one of the robots, letting out a heavy sigh. As she did, some smoke escaped from her mouth, before she looked up at one of the robots, whose eyes illuminated into a bright red. The smoke kept coming out of her mouth, surrounding her and the robot in a thin layer of purple smoke at the level of her ankles. The robot didn't seem to respond at all to the sudden veil of smoke, bringing up its arms to slam them into the ground. Natalia didn't budge, not even flinching as the metallic arms swung down. Instead, she simple closed her eyes, before seemingly vanishing. The robot slammed into the ground, leaving Natalia's gym clothing in a small crater on the ground, as a cloud of smoke approached it. The cloud surrounded the robot, before slipping into the seems between the robot's parts. The machine seemed confused, looking around to try and find the girl that was just in front of it, before it began to jerk around, as if something was moving inside of it. Its head bobbed a bit, before it popped clean off the body. Sticking out of the robot's neck was a very pale arm, the arm that had just struggled to punch its way through the robot. Slowly, the arm climbed its way out of the robot's body, Natalia slowly forming as she climbed out. A very thick layer of smoke surrounded her now naked body as she stood in front of the collapsed robot, making her way towards the pile of clothing left behind. She didn't even seem to be phased by the fact that she was only covered by her own smoke, as she nonchalantly put her gym clothing back on. With a brush of her hair, she stepped away from the rubble she had made, all the smoke dissipating as soon as she was properly clothed. As the students were showing off their quirks, a young man entered the training grounds, a tired expression on his face. In his hand was a mug of coffee, which he had brought with him since the morning, and over his shoulder was a bag. He had gotten an email at the last minute by Glory to help Epicenter with today's class. Or maybe it wasn't a last minute email; maybe he hadn't checked his email until about an hour ago. The actual answer didn't matter, all he knew is that he was late. He knew he was late, as nobody was in the classroom when he had hurried on over here to check. Seeing the youth of the next generation using their quirks on the robots double confirmed his suspicions. Exhaustively, he made his way next to Epicenter. "Sssssorry I'm late." He said, rubbing the back of his head. "I didn't sssssee the messsssage until not too long ago." He turned his attention towards the kids. The ground suddenly shook as Ms. Todoya turned toward the new arrival "I-i-i-i-King Kobra??? Wh-what email??? D-d-d-don't tell me Glory d-didn't trust me to handle this??!" "Ah, did he not tell you? That'sssss a very Glory thing to do, honessssstly." Kobra said, smirking softly. "But yesssss, I am here to help you with the kidsssss." He turned towards the students, seeing them go off with their quirks. "Ssssseemsssss like thingsssss are going well ssssso far!" He smiled, before taking a sip of his coffee.

Opening Act "Dad! I need your help!" Hideyo said as he snatched a perfectly buttered piece of toast from the kitchen table and bit into it. He was also, at the same time as he tried to balance his breakfast, slipping into his uniform pants. Kenji Hideyo was downing his morning orange juice, propped against the kitchen counter. He wiped his mouth and greeted his son. "And good morning to you too, young man," he said sternly. "Sorry," Hideyo apologized profusely. "Good morning, father!" Hideyo said excitedly, mouthful of toast. "No talking with your mouthful! Straighten that shirt! Comb your hair!" Kenji barked. "Yes sir!" Hideyo replied happily. He spun around in a blaze of starlight and suddenly, the boy was dressed with the utmost care and pristine. "Better," Kenji smiled. "What did you need help with?" Hideyo took a pen and pad out from his backpack and sat it on the kitchen table. "I need an opening joke for the day. I've got to make a good first impression!" Suddenly, Kenji's eyes were wide with pride. "You truly are my son. Come, boy! We will drum up an excellent joke. But we must also work on your delivery. Quickly, before your mother catches us!" "Yes sir!" Hideyo said excitedly as he and his father huddled over the pen and pad. Nailed It! It was a lovely day, and Hideyo's first official day of school. Head held high, he approached the school gates with excitement in his step. There came a starting point in every young star's life. This was Hideyo's. As he proudly marched to the front gate with his chest puffed out, a tall, slightly older than him, gentleman stood out, combing through a thick stack of papers that was likely full of the names of first year students. Hideyo, being the bright, forward boy that he was, approached with vigor and stood at attention before the brown haired man. "Kagarashi Hideyo, first year student, at your orders sir!" he joked, excitedly. He was happy to land his first joke successfully, despite there being no physical way for him to tell if it was good or not. Nonetheless, he was extremely satisfied and brimming with pride. "Well, looks like I don't need to ask. You seem awfully excited. You performed well in the entrance exam, a lot of staff have their eye on you." With a grin, Hideyo replied, "Thank you, sir! I'll do my best to live up to your expectations of me!" "I should hope so. What inspired you to become a hero, Kagarashi?" Hideyo paused, placing a thumb to his chin. It was time to give an honest, serious reply. "I'd have to say it was my parents. I've seen the way that people with and without quirks work together. They can have a true, harmonious and happy life if they strive toward the common good. I want to help ensure that future, and make it bright!" "That's a good ideal to strive toward. I know many, both quirked and quirkless, hold disdain toward the other, but that can be overcome, the future is a bright one. Go ahead and head to class." "Thank you, sir!" Hideyo took his smile and his pride and entered into the school of his dreams. He headed straight to his assigned classroom, looking forward to meeting his classmates. Starlight When he arrived, still brimming from ear to ear, Hideyo promptly took the center most seat in the classroom, where he could be observed, be attentive, not be too obstructing to his fellow classmates, and answer questions from fellow students and his instructor. After gently placing down his backpack, he introduced himself. "Good morning, classmates! My name is Kagarashi Hideyo! I look forward to working and learning with y--oh! I smell treats!" He commented, his nose suddenly distracted as he caught a whiff of Monaka. He approached the teacher's desk and promptly devoured one. He observed the delicate flavors of the jam and the perfect compliment of the wafers that sandwiched it. "Delicious!" he complimented. "I look forward to working and learning with you all!" He returned to his seat where he sat with his arms folded over one another and waited for further instruction. Smile and all.

BGM Another beautiful morning in April with the sun shining brightly. This was an important day for some...and it definitely was true for young Benjamin O'Hara...who was dashing down the stairs, all dressed up and ready for his first day at U.A. This was something he had been looking forward to for a long while. The young man skidded to a halt near the kitchen, seeing his mother, Felicia, nursing a hot cup of coffee. "Morning mom! Take it dad's off at work already?" he asked, shuffling a bit to make sure he had everything. "You know your father. Always the early bird." Felicia smiled, putting her cup down. "Don't leave without eating though, Benjy." Benjamin groaned, hearing his mother calling him that nickname. "Mom, I'm fifteen...you don't have to keep calling me that." he said, only to see her giggle in response. "As for breakfast, already got that covered." He said, putting his hand down. Once he did, a couple of spiders started crawling out of his hand and towards a small plate of muffins that were on the counter. Like clockwork, the spiders brought to their host the chocolate chip muffin and returned within. "See?" Benjamin smirked, taking a nice chomp out of the muffin. "Well, I'm off! Wish me luck mom!" With not another word, Benjamin rushed past his mother, kissing her cheek as he left before grabbing his bag, slinging it over his shoulder and heading out the door with another chomp of the muffin. Benjamin rushed down the streets, and it was a bit busier than what he wanted. No problem though, he could deal with this without having to use his Quirk anyway. A quick leap over some individuals who were moving a large dresser, a bit of parkour to dodge a few individuals who were just in the way...even snagging a small ride on the trolley...this time using his Quirk and the spiders to cover his hand with webbing. Of course, it wasn't too much of an issue...least he was hoping it wouldn't be. Though when he got far enough, he got off and kept going...taking a shortcut or two just to get to his destination. It was almost in sight...and he could hardly wait!! Finally he'd arrive at the destination...U.A., the school that would help him become the Hero he wanted to be....that he hoped to be. He stood there at the gate for a long period of time, before exhaling slowly. Calm down O'Hara...you got this. You can do this. he thought, finally steeling himself to move forward. His first steps into U.A. Benjamin began to make his way towards the school building, only to make pause when he noticed what was waiting for him. This individual, roughly mid-twenties...six feet...brown hair that was cut neatly and topping it all off with an amazingly stylish v-shaped visor on his eyes. It was clear that this Hero was definitely one not to be trifled with. The young man began to approach this Hero who was thumbing through a small stack of papers. No doubt these were the students that would be arriving here. Regardless, Benjamin lifted a hand to wave and gave off a smile. "Good morning. Benjamin O'Ha-...oh right." he paused, before rubbing the back of his neck. "It would be O'Hara Benjamin, sir." "You're an American? What brings you to hero school here in Japan?" "Yes sir. Actually, I moved here back when I was young." he began to explain. "My dad had a contract from work that needed someone over here. So that's pretty much how it happened." "I see. So, why do you want to be a hero?" The young man was silent for a moment, before looking to his hand. For the moment, the Hero would see a few spiders emerging from his palm, just forming a small circle. "...truth be told, I didn't want to be. Not with this Quirk...but...a Hero saved me." he paused, the spiders in his palm began to make the appearance of a small spider symbol. "She gave her life for mine. I want to do right by her. I want to be an amazing Hero like she was." "Yeah. Heroes have a habit of doing that. I knew her, you know." "I figured some people might've." Benjamin sighed, the spiders leaving his palm and returning within. "Didn't even get a moment to tell her thank you. Not only for saving my life...but reigniting that spark." "Sayaka was much more a hero than I ever was. All that before she even graduated... As heroic as I'm sure you are, I'm not going to let that happen to you." Benjamin was silent, before nodding at the Hero. "I'll keep that in mind, sir." "Go ahead any head in. Just... Don't make any slingshots on your first day." He really wanted to pry and figure out what the Hero meant, but he noticed more students starting to make their way to where he was. A question for another time, it would seem. With nothing but a shrug, Benjamin walked into the building and after being pointed in the right direction towards his classroom, entered the room. From what he could tell, there was already two other individuals here in the room. One looked like what Benjamin could only describe as a broody edgelord...maybe not even an edgelord...probably just a broody teen. The other, a blonde girl with her hair over her right eye. She looked cute...no lie about it. Benjamin immediately took his seat, sitting in the front row, at least a desk away from the blonde girl. Didn't want to come off as someone who was a womanizer, so he figured he'd make some space. He could've acknowledged the broody one, but he figured he'd let that sleeping dog lie. With that, he looked over to the girl and gave a bit of a smile. "Hey there. Benjamin O'Hara...nice to meet you!" he said, not realizing he introduced himself like he normally would when he was in America. Something he still wasn't used to...even after living here for as long as he did.

“So, Ms. Joanna, if I may call you that… do you have any other exciting news or plans in store for tonight? It seems the event is about to begin, but I don’t mind meeting after. The name’s April Soleil, and I’ll be at The Valentine after this, if you want to… discuss an article with me.” Joey's eyebrow raised for a moment. Was this broad trying to compete with the Joester? As if. His eyes locked onto the reporter, before all hell broke loose. The lights cut out for only a moment, but when they did the display before them was gone. To make matters worse, there were now chandeliers falling all over the place. Joey sighed, before he opened his mouth to let...it loose. That's when he heard Ms. Joestar's voice clear as day. “『CD SPACE』!” Joey's eyes were lead to Joanna, an angel appearing from behind them to smash the chandeliers to bits. Joey was cut up by some crystal shards in the process, but looking to that reporter from earlier, it seemed he had gotten off pretty lucky. The girl had a huge chunk of chandelier sitting in her damn rib cage. Sadly, Joey was pretty desensitized to violence like this...it wasn't his first time seeing blood seeping out of some poor soul. However, the chandelier part was pretty new. He didn't even get to enjoy the view before he could hear gunshots ring in the air. "『21 GUNS』" Seemed like all the crazies were coming out today. Joey had seen stand users before, but he never engaged them for lack of a reason to. But now it seemed his life was being threatened. "Put your hands where I can see them!" The man said. "Any sudden movements, and I'll make mince meat out of you!" Guns spread throughout holes in a wall fired off in the air above the crowd. Joey had done many a bank robbery in his heyday, but stealing the corpse of a saint? Come on man you could do better. Who's gonna wanna display that at home? "Do I make myself clear? Especially you." His eyes lead towards Ms. Joestar. "Make me." The girl charged the man brazenly. She had guts, he'd give her that, but he expected nothing less of a stand user. "Everyone get down or get the hell out of here!" In the midst of the chaos, Joey started to slink away towards the back of the room, keeping his head down the whole sluggish way. "『HYBRID THEORY』!" he whispered, as a small, phantom arm appeared from his shoulder, and moved it's fingers towards all of Joey's cuts. The fingers pinched both sides of the cuts, fusing the individual skin cells back together. He wasn't necessarily prepared for a Stand brawl, but he still had his trusty Colt in his pocket. Now the real question was whether or not he had to chase the thief down, or help Ms. Joestar out. Looking back at her situation, he nodded to himself and figured she had the situation under control. He definitely wasn't going to chicken out in this situation! He'd fight that 『21 GUNS』freak...if he had more firepower. Instead he made off towards where the thief was heading.

OP: HIDEKI NAGANUMA – FEEL the POWER in YOUR SOUL ED: MasakoX - 「70cm四方の窓辺」 -A Saikazo RP- -Cohosted by Skaia and Yui- -Logo by Yui- -Special thanks to Yui for helping with World Building- Rules Setting Database Very Basic Plot Application Available Dragons

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Elsie had spent the night dreaming of clear skies and gentle breezes. Because that was what happened when you had a raven familiar. If it wasn’t a dream with ominous and foreboding portents of the future, it was a dream about flying. Corbin, of course, had the same dream, and if Elsie rotated her little subconscious point of view a little to the left, she could even see him soaring alongside her. When the wake-up alarm went off, of course, everything came crashing back. Not literally, of course -- they always managed to wake up just before impact -- but they simultaneously snapped awake. Elsie even lifted herself straight out of bed and Corbin nearly fluttered right off of his perch. Still, Corbin at least managed to be chipper. “Good morning, Elsie! You want to, uh, you want to come down from there?” “Guh,” Elsie said. What was good about mornings? Corbin- sure, ravens weren’t traditionally creatures of the night, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t too. They called the witching hour the witching hour for a reason, after all, and that wasn’t because the sun was in the sky when it happened. Still, she complied, lowering herself back down into her bed before sitting up and, you know, actually opening up her eyes. “Good morning, Corbin.” Elsie’s waking-up process post-those initial moments was a little more involved than that, though it had much less that was worth recounting. That was the thing about routines -- the point of them was that they weren’t special. Corbin went through the process of preening himself while Elsie washed up and that was all that really needed to be said about that. The most involved moment was when they argued just how much she needed that little extra glamour. “You’re fine,” Corbin said. “I mean, obviously I’m fine, Corbin. That’s not the problem,” Elsie said. “But Jekyll said, ‘Jaegers’. As in plural. A plurality of jaegers. And if we’re meeting new people today, I need something that inspires that little extra awe, you know?” Could ravens roll their eyes? Elsie wasn’t sure if they actually could, but occasionally out of the corner of her eye, she’d spot something from Corbin that looked not unlike an eye roll and then was one of those times. “Do you think they were recruited like us? Or were they ‘recruited’?” Elsie mimed the extra quotes while cycling through potential options, finally settling on one that made her look just like herself, only, you know, better. A classic choice, if she did say so herself, and a good first impression. “There was a rigorous application process, I’m sure. With only one or two flashes of violence,” Corbin said. “Mm. Well, nobody we can’t handle,” Elsie said. “Not like we can’t handle just about anybody. Shoulder or broom handle?” “Shoulder today, I think.” Elsie offered her shoulder to her familiar and Corbin hopped right up her arm to perch right next to her face. She did a little twirl and a pose in the mirror, then nodded, confirming for the final time that everything was just so, and, with broomstick in hand, finally headed off. Inwardly, Elsie hoped Jekyll was serving breakfast at this announcement meeting, or at the very least, she didn’t want to show up at the kitchen later and find out somebody had poached all the rolls. When Elsie reached the conference room door, she paused, not quite sure what to do. Or rather, she knew she had to cross the threshold, but she wasn't quite sure how to do it. How she should do it. She pondered aloud, “I was thinking some smoke leaking through the bottom crack and then the door creaks open to our silhouette and I say-” Corbin quickly cut her off. “If I remember correctly, the last time you tried pyro we both agreed to never do pyro for our introduction again. And yes -- I see that look -- smoke still counts as pyro.” Elsie pouted, though even she knew it wasn't a serious pout. “Alright, classic plan B then, huh?” “Or you could open the door like a normal -” But Corbin's protests came too late. She conjured up a little extra wind for dramatic effect and aimed her heel right beneath the doorknob… ...whereupon she bounced right off and collapsed in a heap, the door still stubbornly closed. “I think it’s a pull door, actually,” Corbin said. “It’d be hazardous otherwise, right? Plus, I mean, the hinges are on this side.” Elsie so wished that she could smite her own familiar. She wondered if she’d also feel the pain or if he’d just broadcast his feelings to her of being in eternal torment. It would certainly be a step up from either two steps away from busting a gut laughing or a simple smug superiority. She settled for a “Hmph,” and readied herself for another go, this time throwing back the door and using the wind to carry it into the wall with as loud a BANG! as she could manage. “Tremble, mortals! You are in the presence of an avatar of Hecate herself. Gaze in awe at her majesty! She, one-hundred-and-eighth -” Elsie opened her eyes to an almost empty room. “Oh,” she said. Then, to Corbin, she said, “Do you think maybe you could tell me next time? You know I work better with a better audience. There’s barely enough people here to call it a crowd.” Ravens couldn't shrug either, but Elsie was pretty sure she felt the essence of one coming from her shoulder. “You seemed pretty into it, and I didn't want to spoil your fun.” Elsie suddenly realized that they’d probably heard her first attempt as well. She felt a blush on her cheeks but soldiered on anyway, even if soldiering on meant hurriedly walking over to a chair and sitting down. Corbin, for his part, hopped down off her shoulder and onto the table. Elsie manged an, “It’s nice to meet you all,” and that was that.

After rummaging through the photos I took while we were at Cancun, this one of a pier we were lying by caught my eye, so I decided to draw it in soft pastel. Feedback is appreciated.

These are mostly still in development. They are based in Mexican fauna so far. Ocelot, Manatee, Pangolin, Xoloitzcuintle, Quetzal, Vulture.

"You? Huh...didn't take you for a...well, color me surprised yet again, Sorcerer Supreme. You've brought in another candidate for the Entertainment Dueling Club." Souji seemed impressed, and honestly Sai had no idea why. He brought all of two people, one that may not stay, and one that may not even join. But hey, if Souji was going to praise him, then whatever. "Also...I didn't get a chance to address this...but..." Souji stood up quickly. "You said I 'dress up as Divine Wind'. I'll have you know, that my outfit is NOT Divine Wind." He took out a small notepad from his back pocket, flipping it open and holding it up towards Sai. "IF you were versed in the lore of the Masked HERO Duel Monsters, you'd recognize that the outfit of the Kamen Rider is based on a monster that hasn't even been released: Masked HERO Gust! Hmph..." "Oh, you mean that little monster is green like Divine Wind, wears the same clothes as Divine Wind, and upgrades into Divine Wind, plus isn't actually even real. I apologize, I'll be sure to get it right next time," It wasn't like Sai didn't understand the indignity Souji was feeling, but he also thought the Kamen Rider loving otaku was being really pedantic right now. Then he did something horrible, the absolute worst thing he could do... He started giving bad advice. "Rainbow Dragon, just don't run it." He then began to list off reasons of why she shouldn't run it, which basically boiled down to the point of "It's not optimal, wah wah," Well, she could just take out Rainbow Dragon, but there was a better way. As Souji began to talk to Melissa, Sai whipped out his notebook, taking a pencil and drawing a small chart, one divided into two. On one side was Akari's name, and on the other's was Melissa's. He began jotting ideas for their costumes. Akari was a bit hard... what would go well with Crystal Beasts...? A knight covered in gems? No, no, that was more for Gem Knights... As for Melissa... she played Darklords, which were fallen angels, and she wanted to be an angel... that might work, but it would be odd if the duelist was a pure angel while the others were fallen... A lot of ideas were building in his head, and he had to let them out, lest he burst. He hated it when he got like this, but he still wanted his creativity to come out. And then Melissa left to go to the bathroom. That was good, he could talk to Akari without interrupting her. "So, Akari you mentioned you used Rainbow Dragon? Now, you hear everything Souji said? Totally disregard it. He's a competitive player disguised as an entertainment duelist. However, I do believe you shouldn't use it in every duel. You should find some other wincons, and slowly build up to Rainbow Dragon. Keep it in your back pocket, keep alluding that your deck has greater power, things like that. And then when you think the time is right, unleash the dragon and completely dazzle the crowd!" He then turned to Kyouko, who seemed to either completely lost in thought about her persona or just daydreaming. "So... u-umm...," He didn't want to anger her, so he had to word this carefully. "Hey, Kyouko... you... got any i-ideas for your persona...?" “Sorry about that. Um, any questions? Anything I didn’t address?” Ah, looks like Melissa was back. Good, good, then Sai could ask her a question... although he did his best to reel himself in. He knew she wasn't comfortable, and he knew from experience getting in her face and overwhelming her was the worst thing someone could do. "I have a question," Sai said as he raised his hand, keeping his voice soft. "But first, wh-why don't you sit down at the table with us?" The first step was to make sure she didn't feel like an outsider, standing in the corner. Whether she did or not, he would open his notebook to an empty page, spinning his pencil as he thought to himself. "Now, you mentioned you had an idea of being an angel, Lailah, if I'm pronouncing that correctly. Now, do you know how you'd like it to look? More traditionally angelic, or like, more like the Darklords you play, or maybe something inbetween?" He then stopped spinning his pencil as a thought came to him. "Actually, it might be possible to jury rig a system... like... your costume having angel wings, and the less lifepoints you have, the darker the feathers become, going from white to black or something...," He said as he wrote down the idea. "That'd take a bit, but I can pull it off...," This was his favorite part. He loved making the costumes. "B-but yeah, just if you have some ideas, just let me know, and if you join the club, I'll have some designs sketched out by next meeting," he turned to Akari and Kyouko. "Um... s-same goes for you two to...,"

“I found this right here but I didn’t know what to do it,” Melissa said. “It says it belongs to someone named ‘Sai Kamezooka’. Is that you? I promise I just looked at the inside cover, nothing else.” Oh, ouch. Sai had to admit, having his secret identity revealed just like that was both anticlimactic and a blow to his own pride. He managed to go a long time without people finding out. Oh well, he should be more thankful about her finding his notebook. “Y-yeah, that’s mine… thanks for finding it,” He said as he held his hand out for it, a bit unsure if he was supposed to grab it or if she would hand it to him. Melissa did the latter, getting up from her spot on the bench and walking it over to Sai. There was a long pause afterwards, like she wasn’t entirely sure what to do next, but she eventually said, “You weren’t- you weren’t missing anything else, were you? I’m not doing anything right now if you needed help looking.” Well, that was nice of her for offering, but sadly, no, he wasn’t really missing anything else, at least nothing that he knew of. “Um… no, a-as far as I can tell, I have everything I need,” He answered. “Besides, I really should really be like… thanking you instead of bothering you more, you know…?” He paused, thinking to himself. He didn’t really have much in ways of thanking her, honestly… unless… “You… you wouldn’t just so happen to be looking for a club to join, would you?” At the very least, he could help her join a club if she didn’t, right? Right... Initial impressions were poor. Melissa didn’t jump for joy or smile with a twinkle in her eye or anything like that. Instead, she looked down at her shoes- no, that was her pocket and kind of just… stared at it. “Sorry,” Melissa said. “I’m, um, I’m not great at meeting new people. Especially a lot of people all at once. Um, actually the one club I am in just got five or six new members so that’s not been going great. She looked back up at Sai. “I guess the answer is, I don’t know, maybe?” she said. “I mean, I guess I’m trying, I’m trying to be social. It’s just hard, you know?” “O-oh yeah, I know that feeling way too well. Too many people gets overwhelming..., your voice gets lost in the crowd, and it’s just… it’s awful…,” Sai found it strange that he was the one being the social one here, that never happened. Maybe Entertainment Dueling was helping a lot more than he first thought. “W-well… actually, you know… the E-Entertainment Dueling Club just opened and well, it’s looking for members and… well… entertainment dueling helps me with… ya know… that problem with crowds and being social with people…,” Was he really trying to pitch this to someone else? “Like… it doesn’t solve problems immediately… b-but, if you want some help with your confidence… w-well, it’s helped me… I’m actually talking to you… probably couldn’t do that a-about six months ago…,” God, he sounded dumb right now. “You want me to what,” Melissa said. It sounded more like a statement than a question. But it wasn’t deadpan like that phrase normally implied, no, Melissa’s eyes had widened with just about every word Sai had said. “The size of dinner plates” was an overused expression, but it was certainly fitting here. And if it had been a question, it had been a rhetorical one. Melissa was still talking. “I don’t- I mean, I have what, uh, some people would call a costume already -- you’ve seen it, I think. It’s that, uh, It’s that nun habit and… and some other stuff -- um, the point is, I don’t think that really helps. For me, at least. I’m glad it’s helped you. “I don’t know what I would do with myself anyway. Like, I just want to help people. That’s all I want. The club I’m right now, um, that’s what that one’s about, or-” Melissa’s tone swiftly changed from frightened to bitter. “-I guess was about now.” “I-I… well…,” Sai paused to think about this. He didn’t have to push this. Even if Kyouko dropped, they seemed to have perhaps found a fourth member already. Still… he didn’t want to leave her with her own problems -- which she seemed to have with her own club -- especially since she helped him in such a big way. “W-well, there’s more to entertainment dueling then just a costume, you know? It’s also… well, a lot of things, synergy between yourself and your deck, b-but, anyways, what I think is more important is that maybe…,” Well, here went everything. “Well, i-if you have issues you wanna talk about, or just want to help people, entertainment dueling is a good way to go about it… as you do better and get more fans, you get a wider audience to raise awareness with, you know what I mean? You can even weave your message into the way you play. Your style can reflect your beliefs, you know?” Melissa frowned. Either she was lost in thought or she was trying to find a way to let Sai down gently, he couldn’t tell. And he didn’t find out for what felt like forever, though it was probably only like thirty seconds. Eventually, though, Melissa said, “I guess I can- I could probably attend one meeting. Were you headed there now? Is that why you’re in costume?” “Well… it’s more like I was in a meeting before realizing my notebook was missing… we… well, it might still be going on if you want to come now… or you can just… you know… just wait for the next meeting.” “Like I said,” Melissa said, “I’m not doing anything right now. I could just tag along if that’s okay.” “Yeah, that’s fine,” He said with a smile, tucking his notebook into his cloak. “Well, then, allow me to show you the way!” He said cheerfully as he began to head off back to Room 24.

De-Tailer Lizard DARK ✪✪✪ (Level 3) [Reptile/Effect] ATK/ 600 DEF/ 1750 If a Reptile monster you control is targeted by a card effect or for an attack: You can banish this card from your hand or GY; negate that attack or effect, and if you do, Special Summon 1 "Tail Token" (Zombie/DARK/Level 1/ATK 0/ DEF 0). While this Token is on your side of the field, your opponent cannot target Reptile monsters you control for attacks. Concept and Wordplay: Design Notes:

before they are people with ideals and opinions, they are just people. the ideals and thoughts we all have, we currently keep them because they keep us comfortable in some way, and which ones we choose to keep depend on each of our circumstances. if our ideals are challenged, we hold on to them when the alternative doesnt offer us comfort, and we abandon them for new ones when holding on to them doesnt feel good anymore, again keeping in mind each of our circumstances. regardless of how different our ideals may be, that fundamental comfort, for the lack of a better word, is what keeps our thoughts the way they are. going to your nationalist example, ultimately they'd only appear as being bullheaded to people like you and i who either dislike nationalism or find no sense of belonging in such a thing. for those other characters though, those feelings are very real and comfortable and although not logical, they're supported by their past experiences and that's not something you can ever deny with just logic. if your story is focused on trying to logically dismantle the characters' sense of nationalism through dialogue and convincing that just isnt going to work imo

second image courtesy of rep

With the end of YCM's Year of Stars, we find ourselves on a new forum... and at the beginning of the Year of Rebirth! Hopefully, we can begin events in the near future, so that we can celebrate our new home! PM me with your ideas, and we can see what we can do! And never you fear, we have one lined up already!