The Seekers of Illumination

[Furore]

1) Have you been in a situation with a person you thought was close-minded? If so, how did you handle it? If not, how do you think you would take it if you were to meet someone like that?

I have. Me being me, I rush in blindly most of the time. Sometimes I can help someone see another side, sometimes they seem beyond it. Regardless it's almost like I feel I have to try to get them to see things may not be so well defined.

2) Do you think people like that are that way based on personal experiences or on how they were raised?

Some people, mayhaps. Others just have a closed view of the world. But not being open to new possibilities is a major part of it. It most likely can be the result of any number of things.

3) Would you consider yourself open-minded or close-minded? Or a bit both?

Open-minded to an extent. I'm relatively close-minded in some of my ways of thinking. I just find that I believe some things to be utter shite. But then I am the one who questions most things that are supposedly set in stone. Like scientific evidence for example. What does it prove?

4) Would you consider someone being open-minded a bad or good thing?

Good thing. The more open-minded the better. More dice on the table, less major differences of opinion.... Me likey.

[Sinister]

1) Have you been in a situation with a person you thought was close-minded? If so, how did you handle it? If not, how do you think you would take it if you were to meet someone like that?

I have. I try not to mess with the ethos of others unless they are friends and I think that I owe them my consideration and that I owe them my opinion. Generally, it's a disappointing thing to see, but I do not actively participate with people on such a level.

2) Do you think people like that are that way based on personal experiences or on how they were raised?

Ah...that is a term paper and a half, and I am far too lazy. But in essence you are asking the same question twice. Personal Experiences or how they were raised. Both are personal experiences, I think your question could be answered along those lines.

3) Would you consider yourself open-minded or close-minded? Or a bit both?

Certainly, I aim for balance in all things. But I cannot observe my own actions as well as those who know me can. I.E. You people would be a better judge of this than I would. I would hope a bit of both.

4) Would you consider someone being open-minded a bad or good thing?

Govinda said I put it excellently . I don't know if that's true, but I stand by what I said:

"We must always remember and balance the difference between being so open-minded we let our minds fall out, or so closed-minded it never gets any air."


-Sin

[Azuteor]

Hey everyone, just wanted to say hello! I'm not even sure if I'm still in the club, but I used to be one right? Looks like the club is alive, I'm glad! I hope everyone is doing alright!

I am back! Well, rules are rules, will I have to complete the registration process again?

[T.G. Oskar]

Uhh...

If anyone sought to look for me the past 2 days, my ISP got trigger-happy and d/ced me for no apparent reason. I am not the most diligent of payers, but I often make the full 2-month payment for my service. No explanation, poof!!

Made me rediscover I had more stuff in my computer. Like, emulators.

Anyways...

@Suzu: well...of course you are still in <.< (you could have just asked...) I'd advice a swift re-reading of the rules (some changes are around), and just fill the application. Half of the people here are from the old club, half are new (might want to say Hi to Dimarik, to Aerif, and if for some reason Ann remembers, do so too)

One more thing, the Masters pulled off the thing we sought to do (BoD has self-exiled from TFF, I still doubt they are truly exiling, but well...) Just in case you are a bit off from current events.

As always, do please contribute in the discussion. We've been doing some battles as of lately, and at least the two done have finished successfully. Care for another bout, with switched opponents? That last bouts were quite exciting, considering the relative skill of the RPBers.

[Sinister]

We could do that, Oskar. Another round, all around? We could start an RP. Now that the BoD is finished forever, I imagine that we could use this club to dominate. Their place is still vacant and a vacuum of power must be filled. We've just yet to step up and claim it.


As far as debate...I wish I could contribute to major discussions, but I just can't bring myself to influence people that way. I would argue for Christianity's sake, but I can't tell anyone that they're wrong and I'm right or even to challenge their view. Does anyone else feel this way? It's not that I think that it's wrong or sinful to argue your point... Well it's a combination of my natural laziness and hesitance.

I am Taoist. That much is true, as far as truth reaches. However, I believe in God and in Christ and I believe that the greater majority of what the Bible says is truth and IS divinely inspired. But from an evangelical perspective, I am useless to God and to Taoism. Besides, when it comes to arguments, I usually lose them anyway. Not very good with verbal confrontation.


It seems we've lost Bro, for a while, at least. Until he settles things. Thoughts and prayers, people.

I'll take on Nathan, Pablo or Aerif...anything's fine.

Everyone be safe.

-Sin

[Govinda]

It's not wrong to fight your point. But if you hold a Bible in front of me and tell me I'm going to your hell for not listening to it, I reserve the right to get a bit pissed and go slightly Richard Dawkins on yo' ass (not wholly Dawkins though, as I think he is a complete, total and utter, chronically, painfully, detrimentally closed minded, opinionated mostly-fascist TWAT who deserves to be ignored by publishers everywhere).

I couldn't find the beginning of that discussion. So I just picked a sentence from Sin's post and said some stuff. Yeah. 'Observing the Obvious: Why Yes, I Am Trained in Sociology, However Did You Guess? Volume One.'

I'd like to try RPB'ing with any of you who will humour me. Will make a new character as the last one was conjured at 4am in a total of 25 minutes and frankly makes me feel nothing but unabashed shame.

Safe return for our friend Dimi.

[T.G. Oskar]

Now that the BoD is finished forever, I imagine that we could use this club to dominate.

Wishful thinking, eh brother? We might, of course, but the dominance should be subtle, quiet. Yet, enrapturing.

We should be the gentle conquerors. Oxymoron at least, but having the same influence without being a bunch of...how to say, obnoxious fools.

Though I still wouldn't say their exodus is definite. Much like temporary. Most of the recent partings from the forum have returned after a certain time (gladly enough, an example is good friend Dimarik. He had his stuff, but he certainly sums the feeling of most of the returnees: he's addicted to the forum. Hopefully he has recovered from the situation. Sith happens*.)

Sin...I'm also lazy for discussion. Very lazy. I can live with that.

Anyways, it's not wrong to stand your ground and make a point. Certainly not. The true problem lies in shoving your beliefs to people for no apparent reason. It's not bad if you want to speak about Christianity or why God is the only one, but if you are to intimidate me into believing, and use fear...that is certainly something I cannot allow.

Same thing as if I say ghosts exist. People say they exist, that they wander upon us, but without empirical evidence, there is no way to place authority upon their declarations. Same thing in religion: most people won't place authority neither in the Bible nor in faith because of a lack of proper empirical evidence. That does not mean it is true or not, that means people believe on it or not based on circumstantial evidence. It is evidence, but it is not a solid one. Now, does always circumstantial evidence proves a case right, or wrong? Not always. That also means that it's wrong to say it never proves a case right or wrong.

Now, all Christian denominations (and Muslims too) promote massive Evangelization, as they deem it a duty to the church. That is not bad, certainly not. But, also remember people have a free will. Also, remember that the first evangelists never preached with fear. Sure, the prophecies can be a bit rough and blunt, but those are stern warnings.

Still, if you are content with your belief, it's unfair that I shove you my beliefs down your throat. It is just fair: if I don't shove my beliefs upon you, you have no right to shove yours down mine. Golden Rule, gents and ladies: Golden Rule. "Do unto others what you want them to do unto you"

Certainly, trying to convince someone to adopt your ways is not bad, but be warned that such a person is equally stated to convince you of adopting your ways. Also, it is not bad to be stubborn in remaining the same: after all, while people flame Christians for being stubborn about not changing their faith, nobody says the same about, say, being a nihilist.

(Gonna have to place a disclaimer around here: I am blunt. Very blunt. Even if I don't like to offend consciously, I do it and often. Please bear with me)

@Pablo: care to pass that book? I can lend you mine (How to be blunt and get with it: a guide to smart cynism and sarcasm.). I have been told I can be a bit cynic at times, not here but somewhere else. Certainly it can be a boon when you are being shoved down beliefs, don't you think?

Also, I can be sour. Not the kind of funny guy. I presume maybe Aerif could help ya? Or Taco, if you see him (yes, I know, he's not a member, but his RPBing style is a joke. In the good sense, mind ya) Perhaps if I could be a bit more flexible, I could be of aid.

Having said that, anyone interested in a showdown?

P.S.: you have a good talent for making characters, Pablo. I liked the idea of a sorceress of ice, certainly you can develop a better concept than I on a first glance. But, be my guest. Surprise us. I know you can!

[Sinister]

Wishful thinking? It may or may not be temporary, but lets just say I imagine they're arrogance puts the 'statute of limitations' dangerously close to a little bit more than a very long time.


As for discussion. I don't have that problem with discussions in general...just religion. You see? I just don't have that demeanor... I wish I did. But I influence people in other ways, so, in a way, I make up for lacking.

Still, I never was good with sharing. Something I always admired of Christianity. Taoism is not the same. We don't share. By the time we finally understand all of our religion and can practice all of it with mastery...our first impulse is not necessarily to share. Which is why the religion is so...elusive.

People don't like things that aren't handed out on silver platters in this day and age. They are suspicious of work and not ease. Supply and Demand... The demand for religion is shockingly low in this era, but supply is high as always. Taoism balances this.

The biggest attempt I ever made at voicing my religion is a paper I wrote for a grade and the weak essay I posted here.

Actually this site is the biggest religious evangelical effort I've ever made and probably a record somewhere in the Taoist hall of fame. I talk about it all the time, write about it in my journal and am even discussing it here. On the outside world...well...I never talk, let alone on such personal topics as religion of choice.


But if any of you wish to engage in debate... Well, I could certainly use the practice. ^^


And yes, Gov, your Ice sorceress was an impressive character, but if you can do better, exert yourself. Nothing like a stretch of imagination and literary power? That is the point of the thing after all.

-Sin

[Imposter]

I would say that I consider myself an altruist based on the fact that I find it quite easy to esteem others higher than myself. Whether it be via encouraging said individual or taking a step back from the spot light and helping someone step up into it. I do not expect the consequences of my actions in relation to other individuals (well at least when it comes to helping that individual out) to benefit myself. I quite enjoy making others have a good time whatever they're doing.

In regard to injustice I would say I take the stance of abhorring, however some would say that my religious stance is much the opposite, I suppose that is all based on perspective.

I'm sure someone could look at my ability to rp and rpb I've taken part in a few rps and rpbs over the years here, however I've found it extremely hard to sit down and write over the past year or so. I'd like to get back into it but it seems to be very difficult with school.

So there is the application that was asked for. I'd like to join and hopefully sharpen my writing and learn from the discussion here.

[T.G. Oskar]

Well, that is surely a striking proposal, Atma!!

While I hadn't the chance to actually fight you (we tried once, but it never moved to anything in particular save the intros), I do reckon you are a very good RPer. Hopefully this time we'll get ya some dust off from you.

Also, I really didn't bothered to do a full screening from your posts (that is a requisite I often do, just to prevent certain people from entering...y'know, people who would not conform to the standards of respect and camaraderie, fundies and stuff). As far as I reckon, you're a former Moderate, and we've been gone through the way of moderation ourselves, so I'd think you'd be quite at home. Well, the only difference are the discussions...

Therefore, I'd be quite more than happy to accept this application (*places seal of approval several times*), so feel free to contribute to our discussion (which is I believe one or two pages before this one...) We're also waiting for challengers, so if you want to polish your skills, just ask.

P.S.: I knew I forgot something...Nate, could you please, pretty please make a sprite of me and place it right just at Terra's side? Pretty please, with swirling motes of Abyss and Hard Rock Hallelujah on top?

...yeah, for the umpteenth time, I think it's more than evidently obvious I'm a Terra fanboy. I get startled by the photo, that's it...

[Furore]

Heh, I was poking around myself since I hadn't seen much of Atma-Noah.
He seems good to me, eh? And he has a way with words, I loved the Altruism bit.
Welcome aboard dude. ^^

Also of note, I believe I scared the living daylights out of Suzu earlier.
I love a good practical joke...

[Imposter]

Ah quite right T.G, I checked that ole rpb out after you mentioned it. Which lead to me trying to decide whether or not I should try to create a character specifically for the club. Has everyone else done so? If so I will create a new one, after that consider me to be challenging anyone who's up to sharpen this old rusty mind.

Hmm...so the discussion is about presenting religious views to others? And the line between presentation and intimidation? Or do I have to go back further?

A few times the idea has been presented that most people who evangelize in the Christian faith are kinda like people that witness someone's house burning while the owner is asleep. The witness isn't going to casually whisper and be calm about the situation because the other person is in danger.

I think most people have this concept or one close to it and therefore preach fear and intimidation to make their point and stand their ground. Sure it's messy and doesn't always work but that is the only way they think it will leave a mark on another person. I don't really agree with that. I have no problem talking to people about my faith and such but I don't think it is our place to decide what another believes you know?

I guess the other side of the coin is that people should look at the intentions of others and not just at their methods.

Ok folks Abel Tafiti is primed and ready now. Here's a link if you'd like to give him a look over.

[T.G. Oskar]

Well, time to make a brief clarification before I go on: Nate, I liked your ol' sig. It was cool. But, it would have been better with pals, and I certainly didn't mind seeing myself in there with everyone-knows-whom. Just in case I caused you to change sig.

Not that I mind the "yo-ho-hooo-ho!!!" every now and then, Cap'n Silver.

Alright, down to programmed broadcasting:

@Atma: most of the people around have a character that's from the faction, but if you want to affiliate a former character into the faction, that's fine with me.

I'm also seeking someone to face with, so if anyone wants to duke it out with me, contact me first and get the dibs. I'll tell who gets the dibs. Anyone from the guild, it doesn't matter, though I wouldn't mind either Nates or Noah. Your call, tho.

Also, that last bit of your response stirred a bit of further discussion, to whomever is up to it, Noah. So, I'll post it in question form:

What is most important when delivering a message: the intention, the method, or the message? Perhaps a combination of all three? Perhaps another one not mentioned?

[Anomaly]

I'm also seeking someone to face with, so if anyone wants to duke it out with me, contact me first and get the dibs. I'll tell who gets the dibs. Anyone from the guild, it doesn't matter, though I wouldn't mind either Nates or Noah. Your call, tho.

Why confine yourself to fighting your own, when there are so many battle starved fighters out there? Last time we fought it was to a draw, but I truly enjoyed that introduction to this realm. That character that you fought may be 'dead' now, but I wouldn't mind another round with you.

BTW - Before any of your new members get bent out of shape about this I will remind them that I was a guest in this clubs last incarnation. I hope I am still welcome in this newer incarnation...even if I disagree in general with the concept of altruism. A person of a more mercenary frame of mind would.

What is most important when delivering a message: the intention, the method, or the message? Perhaps a combination of all three? Perhaps another one not mentioned?

The intention of any message is important, but can often be over shadowed by the methods employed. Trying to teach a child not to hit their sibling by spanking them, for example, sends something of a mixed message at best. The message itself is all important but can be lost thanks to the method, rendering ones intentions pointless and hollow. Who was it that said, "The road to Hell is paved with good intentions"?

The most important thing when delivering a message is to capture your audiences attention. I suppose in that regard the method employed is vital, but it would be more precise to say that your over all presentation is everything. If you present your message in a manner that is too assertive...too much like your message is the only one that matters and is the only one that is important, that can turn people off. Conversely, if you are too lax and don't seem to be interested in what you yourself have to say, no one else is likely to be interested either. It's important to strike a balance while avoiding being either pedantic or lackadaisical. If you can capture your audiences attention, then their hearts and minds will follow.

Wars are won and lost not by a governments intentions, the methods employed, or even the goal that is archived, but by history's presentation of their victory or defeat in the years to come. A good example would be our own Iraq war.

One more thing in closing.

Now that the BoD is finished forever, I imagine that we could use this club to dominate. Their place is still vacant and a vacuum of power must be filled. We've just yet to step up and claim it.

You seem to discount The Masters. We gutted the Soldiers of the Moderate. We destroyed the Brotherhood of Doom. To the victor go the spoils. There is indeed a degree of Salvation in Domination...but if domination is your goal, you can either join us, or perish.

[Draken Benvolaid]

Yet, why would you want either...? Are you truly who you think you are when you say something like that? Who are you truly justify your actions as other watch in aww? jk, lol. Power just has a funny way of whiplashing at those who use it. lol



Sorry, but Celt said something about I should pass through this club at least once.
He said that I'd fit in somewhere, but I'm still kinda confused.

What does this club function as anyway?

[Anomaly]

Yet, why would you want either...? Are you truly who you think you are when you say something like that? Who are you truly justify your actions as other watch in aww? jk, lol. Power just has a funny way of whiplashing at those who use it. lol

'Backlashing' would've been a better word. Power is an illusion, but a fun one to play with...chasing illusions is what all human entertainment is about.

Please don't let my little exchange color your views of this club as I'm just a guest, and I'm sure there are others that could tell you more accurately what the Seekers of Illumination are and represent.

[Sinister]

You seem to discount The Masters. We gutted the Soldiers of the Moderate. We destroyed the Brotherhood of Doom. To the victor go the spoils. There is indeed a degree of Salvation in Domination...but if domination is your goal, you can either join us, or perish.

You are, of course, still welcome here. I imagine our club wishes nothing more than to keep inter-club dialog available.

I was not including you and yours because I was talking about the hole that the defeated BoD created. I made no mention of supplanting you. If and when we do choose to engage you, we shall do so at a time of our choosing and not before. I promise that you shall be among the first to know.

I can't expect for us to beat such a reputation with what we have here, without training up a bit. And I, for one, am not prepared to sacrifice our club so stupidly as the BoD. Consider your hinted-at-offer, respectfully declined for the moment.

[Draken Benvolaid]

haha, it was directed more to Sin, rather then you Anomaly. But it was a joke none the less.
Forum influence isn't something that particularly has much power outside the forum. Most branch forums die off after a short time.

I was just making an observation of human emotions in the form of sort of joke.
No harm, no foul.

Celt said something about this club having discussions on Ideals or something along that line. He seemed quite perplexed that I should join or at least visit.

[Furore]

haha, it was directed more to Sin, rather then you Anomaly. But it was a joke none the less.
Forum influence isn't something that particularly has much power outside the forum. Most branch forums die off after a short time.

I was just making an observation of human emotions in the form of sort of joke.
No harm, no foul.

Celt said something about this club having discussions on Ideals or something along that line. He seemed quite perplexed that I should join or at least visit.

I mentioned it once over MSN. ><
You say you're wanting to be on the side of good. Well this club is that kind of club.

Oh and Drake dude, are you a member yet? If not just post an application saying why you consider yourself an Altruist, and TG Oskar will say whether or not you can join. He's cool though, and unless he saw something nasty, he should OK you.

And hello there Anomaly. I don't think I've had the fortune of seeing your posts very often outside of an RPB. Tis an honour.

TG Oskar, I'd missed a bit I noticed reading through today. Do you still want sprite you with a sprite Terra? If so just give me a small description of how you'd wish to appear. I'll rip Terra too, just tell me what pose you want her as and I'll get her via my next play. As for the rest, I'm afraid I'll have to get you to paste them into whatever scenario you wish.

[Aerif]

Argh! A spur of activity and it comes at the same time when I will be unavailable to post at all!

I'm posting now... Though I really shouldn't be...

This month I'm sitting my exams, so I won't actually be very 'active' (my meaning of the word ) until at least June 3rd. I'll still probably be checking in, but no RPBs for me 'till June.

Until then, ciao.

[Anomaly]

You are, of course, still welcome here. I imagine our club wishes nothing more than to keep inter-club dialog available.

Thank you.

I was not including you and yours because I was talking about the hole that the defeated BoD created. I made no mention of supplanting you. If and when we do choose to engage you, we shall do so at a time of our choosing and not before. I promise that you shall be among the first to know.

I can't expect for us to beat such a reputation with what we have here, without training up a bit. And I, for one, am not prepared to sacrifice our club so stupidly as the BoD. Consider your hinted-at-offer, respectfully declined for the moment.

Hmm...I wasn't talking about warring with your club. I was talking to you, directly. It's not that I do not think the Seekers are capable of such a thing as domination on these forums, rather than I see no reason for them to seek it. Thus if that is what you want, it would make more sense to join with those who are like minded, rather than watch your ambition wither by the way side. Sorry if I came off a little aggressive...it's just how I am.

haha, it was directed more to Sin, rather then you Anomaly. But it was a joke none the less.
Forum influence isn't something that particularly has much power outside the forum. Most branch forums die off after a short time.

I was just making an observation of human emotions in the form of sort of joke.
No harm, no foul.

No worries, I just like to toss around my own observations now and then and yours opened up an amusing line of thought. Forum 'influence', like most forms of self delusion, can be a fun thing to play around with.

And hello there Anomaly. I don't think I've had the fortune of seeing your posts very often outside of an RPB. Tis an honour.

Ditto and likewise. I tend to keep to the RPB section...conflict and the expression of it (purely for entertainment purposes) is something that I truly relish in life. Yet my profile says I post the most in the FFVII sub forum. Who knew?

[Sinister]

I see, then. I doubt the Masters would take me if I came on my knees with a billion dollars, however, I am still an altruist, if a somewhat ambitious one. I shall stay with this club, and perhaps the future will allow us to test these two clubs against each other. We'll see, then.

-Sin

[Anomaly]

I see, then. I doubt the Masters would take me if I came on my knees with a billion dollars, however, I am still an altruist, if a somewhat ambitious one. I shall stay with this club, and perhaps the future will allow us to test these two clubs against each other. We'll see, then.

-Sin

I know this is straying a little off topic, but why would you think that? We take all kinds, good, evil, and indifferent...the glorious and the profane...logical and insane. I've never been paid off to accept anyone either (though if you're offering...) j/k

Bah, I don't think you Seekers would want to pit yourselves against us anymore than I'd be interested in facing you. There's just no reason for such a conflict...at least not at this time.

Still, don't think that doesn't mean I'm not serious about fighting you again Oskar, where-ever you happen to be right now

[Sinister]

I was under the impression the Masters were rather...selective about their inductees. But you are right...this off-topic.

Whilst you are challenging our leader, I too would like someone with whom to pass the time. Anyone feel like an RPB?

Also we need to work on our Club RP, if everyone is still interested.

-Sin

[T.G. Oskar]

Impressive. What the action of merely turning off the browser for just 2 days can do. Though, I did expected Anomaly to speak his voice around here... I watch the other faction's threads whenever possible, and I realized how he desired to stir the other factions into action (not war, action)

Let's start from the very beginning, which will mean this will be a rather long post.

@Anomaly: Indeed, guest status remains. Rarely I take down guest status for any reason. The fact you are faction leader could imply you'd be able to post even without guest status, but for the explicit reasons of defiance, war declaration, or negotiation. Guest status extends a bit to engagement in debating.

First and foremost, the SoTM weren't so much gutted as dissolved. I think Atma may enlighten us on the matter, but one thing is for certain. TM took the part of neutrality on the moral aspect, while we rescued the instance of moderation. BoD, however, indeed was a victory. Albeit a victory very closely won, given the mutual skill within both groups.

I might, whenever I feel the group can work to it, issue a formal declaration of war with you, given it would benefit both of our purposes. However, one thing is certain: now, and later, I will strongly refuse a claim of faction wiping. It as the basic reason we hadn't faced the BoD: only with a well-prepared group of RPBers we would have considered their crazy idea, as it was always our purpose, but if it can be prevented, then so be it.

Inter-faction RPBing is done for various purposes. First and foremost, it serves to fine-tune the basics for those who haven't participated in RPBing and for those who have, but haven't done for very long. I can speak of that for Sinis, Silver, Aerif, and on the latter, Atma. Second, before facing an opponent, it is well advised to fight oneself. While that is hard within the realm of RPBing, it is capable of being translated into inter-faction terms: facing people of relative equal standing, with similar ideas. More interesting than facing a neutral or evil opponent is how to face a creature with equally good intentions as yours. The battle with Brother Sinister has given me proof of that.

Dominance...well, it is something that could be considered given the understanding of said dominance. The BoD were not only the dominant faction in RPBing, but one of their key aspects was the influence within the forum. They were born here, and they became popular in here. That would be the kind of dominance we could aspire into, being one of the "attractiions" of the forums as much as Final Fantasy is. Certainly, as of now, you have the dominance in RPBing, but certainly it wouldn't be bad to face said dominance in a future. Of course, without nuking factions...

Finally, I've seen Fou-Lu, and the rest of the characters you've worked with, and at least some feel like fractions of your former character. Indeed, it looks as your character hadn't died at all, but rather his power fractured into various aspects. As well, it seems you have quite a predilection for god-like characters, beings of utmost power. I've worked at least one of said characters in an instance, one which I am still developing.

Might want to become acquaintances on instant messaging. You seem like you might enjoy meeting certain other acquaintances of mine.

@Draken: as Brother Silver has spoken, I am quite lax upon restrictions, so if you feel interested in joining, please fill out the application form and we can work around it. If you feel like engaging in our discussion, I might work out around guest status.

Indeed, key to our club is discussing about various topics that concern at times morality issues. Philosophy, science, religion, ethics, moral...you name it. But, you might consider this place an alternative to Intellectual Discussion, given the regular theme of the discussions and the rather enforced petition of mutual respect.

@Silver: Yeah, I still want a version of myself with a sprite Terra aside. I just recently concocted a conceptual portrait of how I would like the sprite to look: I'll try to pass this portrait so that you may work around it. Certainly, this will not look like the description I wrote in my character profile (it isn't the same character), nor it is similar to my actual self. You might try to work around making another set of sprites based on my RPBing character, if you like.

@Sinis: Glad to have you back with us every now and then, Bro. Got a bit frustrated when you placed that placeholder departure post at the thread of the Theatre. But, please, take your time if you consider it imperative.

@Aerif: Good luck on your examinations. Take all the time you need to study, but a bit of advice: rest and relax the day(s) before the actual examination(s), at least on the matter you have to study. If you have a day that can be taken to see a movie, or hang out with people, please do rather than trying to hole up all the amount of material in one day. That should be for the earlier days.

One final thing: I was going to say who got the dibs, and Atma PMed me for it. Just in case. That does not mean we cannot participate in the future however, Anomaly. You and your kin are welcome if they wish to post a one-on-one challenge, though that will rather be left to consideration by the members if they so wish to accept it.

[Imposter]

Welcome to the Seekers of Illumination Draken. Well if I may tell a tale stored deep in the pages of club lore.

Ahem...

"Not so long ago a beautiful red haired lass found that she could neither conform to the ways of good or evil, so she decided to stand and start something truly brilliant. Many that found themselves in the same boat stood beside her. And from there the Soldiers of the Moderates came forth.

Stuck in the middle they watched the sides of light and dark battle amongst themselves, until the BoD came out victorious the SotM had stayed on the side lines but with the scales now tipped out of balance they rose to meet the challenge after much debating between the two factions. However the idea of battle faded away amongst a few minor skirmishes.

It was at this time a group from The Masters crept into the SotM and tried to once again start the fires of war. This resulted in the emergence of The Masters to this realm and the exposing of them within the SotM.

From there not too much is known of what became of the SotM, the side of light had once again reestablished itself in the realm and the balance had been brought back to order. Many of the veteran soldiers took this time to make their leave of watching the balance, the rest of the SotM faded amongst the tides of time.

One drifter in particular washed up here."

I think that about sums up the history of the SotM, we weren't really gutted. I would agree and say dissolved is a good term. I had left early so I don't really know what happened in the final stretch of the club, I imagine people just let it expire and poof it did.

Well TG I hope that is suffice enough, I like it. Anyways I was wondering why you hadn't responded in a few days and now I know why, I'm excited to see how I do.

[LocoColt04]

I would agree and say dissolved is a good term. I had left early so I don't really know what happened in the final stretch of the club, I imagine people just let it expire and poof it did.

That's pretty much what happened to us. The majority of the club's members weren't active enough on the forums due to various things: work, school, a combination of the two, a lack of interest, etcetera. It sort of died out. The BoD issued a challenge, it was never accepted, and they claimed "victory" and "dominance" over the Soldiers of the Moderate. Yeah, claim victory over an inactive group. Real awesome.

[Sinister]

I apologize for my conduct as far as attendance, Brother. I know I'm being rather hard to read at the moment. But all for a good reason. Rest assured that you all know where my loyalties lie.

It won't be too long until all of this is just history and I'm back at my house. And then, it won't be too long until I have to go back yet again. ><

Discussion-wise:

I'd like to address a sobering question. Don't mistake this question for similar questions. This is a SoI version, so you should know what to expect. But how are all of you prepared to deal with your death and it's possible implications. This is all from a personal perspective. I don't mean how are you going to afford a funeral or what you want done with your remains. I mean what are your feelings to every single contingency?

If your personality and identity is to be completely erased from existence, are you afraid of it?

Are you too confident that it won't happen to even consider your feelings?

Are you going to heaven or hell?(presupposing the existence of both)

How are you going to deal with existing there forever?

Is there any other possibility you're prepared to accept?

Are you afraid?


When you answer the above questions, think about it. Envision your death and the following possibilities. Don't be afraid of thinking about it. It's going to happen whether you're afraid or not.

I'll post my answer later, but I'll tell you this now. My father raised me to look at the worst possible situation, then to estimate it's possibility, then to see if there's anyway to divert it. You can imagine why I go mad day and night with every religion and philosophy.

Dylan Thomas had it right. I won't go. *later I'll tell you all how*

-Sin

[Anomaly]

Hope I'm not treading on anyones toes, but I find this a fun question, so I'll start with it.

If your personality and identity is to be completely erased from existence, are you afraid of it?

No. I have experienced oblivion. There is no terror in it, so I cannot say that I fear it. I think more than anything I'd be a little disappointed, but also a little relieved, if that makes sense. Which is not to imply that I fear the concept of an after-life, so much as its a little overwhelming, and while it would be a shame for the wonderful being that is me to cease to exist, it would make things easier.

Are you too confident that it won't happen to even consider your feelings?

No. Oblivion does exist, whether we are consigned there in death or not. As I said, I've experienced it.

Are you going to heaven or hell?

Heaven I hope, Hell I fear, and Purgatory I hope not. I hope not Purgatory simply because it seems like a bland sort of after life.

How are you going to deal with existing there forever?

Heaven, by enjoying every moment God gives, Hell by trying to accept the pain, Purgatory by being bored out of my skull...maybe try my hand at composing songs in all three.

Is there any other possibility you're prepared to accept?

Re-incarnation I suppose. Not the 'instant- just add karma' kind, but I wouldn't mind being re-incarnated on a new earth provided I didn't have to run the gauntlet of divine judgment again.

Are you afraid?

No. I fear pain, but I merely seek to avoid death. If you can't accept your death, how can you accept being alive?

Now a few matters that I'm not going to bother quoting specific things, but will merely broadly reference them.

Soldiers of the Moderate - I'm sorry if my comments caused offense, but from my perspective the SotM didn't completely dissolve until after TM extracted from them. I realize they were dying already, which is why it was easy to infiltrate and assimilate. I will admit our plans didn't go where we wanted them to with that, but I think I'm justified in saying the Masters activity within SotM was the last flicker of the flame before they went out. Aside from that one guy that joined up with the BOD to try and instigate a war between TM and BOD early on. He was crazy.

Inter(inner)-faction RPBing - I'm well aware of its purposes as it part of our entrance exam. I merely was asking why you, Oskar, in particular were participating in what appears to be be solely inter-faction RPing of late. I mean no offense, rather I'm hungry to test out my new characters. I grant you I've written two of them as nigh godly, but they are both fragments of a god. If you'd like, you can face Fou-Lu who is totally mortal...but I definitely want to fight you again, and not just 'sometime in the future'. I want you soon. But I do realize that you're current battles may mean I might have to wait a bit.

Dominance, The Many Definitions of - Thats an interesting one, because you and I have similar definitions for what I'm talking about, but not exactly the same. Nor do I truly think the same as what Sin was implying. I think you and I seek the same thing Oskar, but unlike the BOD, not necessarily at the exclusion of the other. Of course that will always be an open door...it wouldn't be any fun if it were not a possibility, so unlike the burned out SotM I'll never rule out clan destruction. Death is the spice of Life. But not every battle has to be to the death, and not every conflict has to be a battle.
On the other hand, I'm not too interested in getting TM involved in forum politics again. We've been down that road a few times and each time its ended in the forums destruction. Not really a good result for a clan that thrives on conflict. Once the games over and done, there's nothing to do but fade into oblivion...

Might want to become acquaintances on instant messaging. You seem like you might enjoy meeting certain other acquaintances of mine.

That would be fine if we can find the time. We're both pretty busy though, so I'd suggest going back to our IM conversations starting out.

So in summation, hello everyone. Aerif we've worked together before, Atma I remember you well, Sin, you're an interesting character, Colt...are you going to Kon? (answer elsewhere obviously) and Oskar, I look forward to killing you soon! (ask a ninja.com reference, not literal, obviously)

[LocoColt04]

Soldiers of the Moderate - I'm sorry if my comments caused offense, but from my perspective the SotM didn't completely dissolve until after TM extracted from them. I realize they were dying already, which is why it was easy to infiltrate and assimilate. I will admit our plans didn't go where we wanted them to with that, but I think I'm justified in saying the Masters activity within SotM was the last flicker of the flame before they went out. Aside from that one guy that joined up with the BOD to try and instigate a war between TM and BOD early on. He was crazy.

I certainly don't take any offense, though I can't speak for any others.

I do remember when you guys first showed up though. You muscled your way in and then tried to take over, and we wouldn't stand for it. It all kind of died off after that point. Fun times. That really was the "last flicker," as you put it.

I honestly didn't like you guys very much at first. ^^;


Ah, reminiscing, such good times.

TGO, I have not forgotten your challenge to me from forever and a day ago, but you have your plate full at the current time. Anomaly, though it would be very slow-going due to our respective hectic scheduling, I would be willing to fuel your fire in the meantime. Atma, same goes for you, as I know you just expressed to me a few hours ago that you'd like to start writing with me again. If either of you is interested, let's take it to PM so we don't further hijack the thread.


You know, with the BoD gone and The Masters still holding a place of pseudo-neutrality, there's really nothing to mediate around here. Sooner or later, someone's going to have to come up with another "dark side" club.