Literature and Role Playing Members' Interviews

[4thseal]

Liturature Member Interviews: GreenCat92


This month’s literature member interview is with GreenCat92. Her books Fear May Turn to Love and Love has Turned to Hate are entertaining story full of love, suspense, and action. She’s also a very kind person, and was more than willing to answer questions about her book and thoughts on writing.

Q: What’s you’re RL name?
A: Kat (Kathryn) Turney.

Q: What brought you to NM?
A: The bright lights and pretty colors- lol! Just kidding; I found it by accident, but it was so worth it!

Q: How long have you been writing?
A: Stories? When I was younger (about seven) I used to tell stories to entertain myself and others (my mom called them lies- lol!) but I didn’t really start writing things down until I was about thirteen.

Q: What do you get out of writing?
A: I love the feeling of escaping when you write. It’s liberating; you can make the story anywhere or about anyone, and the great part is others don’t necessarily have to know what you wrote!

Q: What authors/books have influenced you as a writer?
A: I was heavily influenced by the Harry Potter series when I started out. (JK Rowling is a genius!) but I prefer reading poetry to get my mind going. (Edgar Allen Poe is my favorite for this!)

Q: What inspires you to write?
A: Just the idea of being able to free my thoughts from my mind! It’s so awesome and it lets you relax some and relieve yourself from stress!

Q: Where does the name GreenKat92 come from?
A: Well, I was trying to think up a user account for youtube a long time ago, so I came up with this: my favorite color is green, my nickname is Kat, and my birth year is 1992! Since then I’ve used it on every site I’ve been on!

Q: Without giving too much away, can you tell what Love Has Turned to Hate is about?
A: Well, it’s a sequel to my first fan-fiction ever; Fear May Turn to Love and, in Love Has Turned to Hate, Sakura’s heart is very heavy with hate because the man she loves has been slaughtered and she wants to avenge his death.

Q: Where did the idea for this book come from?
A: I got the coupling in the original from my two favorite characters and, since I felt that the story was unfinished in the first book, I decided to create a sequel!

Q: Why did you choose Sakura as the main character?
A: I know this is going to sound shallow, but I chose her because she is my favorite character in the entire Manga and Anime series!!

Q: Sakura lusts to kill Sasuke in Love Has Turned to Hate. Like her loving Itachi, this seems to contradict the Sakura a Naruto fan would know. What made you decide to have her character change in such a drastic way?
A: In the beginning of the first story, she is very much herself, but I gradually changed her because I wanted her to reach a certain personality in the story. But, I don’t think that she is now nothing like herself, the old her still manages to escape at least once a chapter!

Q: Why did you have her fall in love with Itachi, a man who sharply contrasts her own character?
A: It’s the contrast that makes their relationship interesting! It would be lackluster to have her fall in love with a character that can match her personality perfectly (as Naruto does in a way), and too cliché to match her with someone that it is obvious that she could already love (like one of the male genin). I believe that they bring out a different side in each other that the Naruto Universe has been long waiting for!

Q: What about throwing Sasori into the mix? What do you think this accomplishes in terms of plot and character growth?
A: Originally, Sasori was not even going to be introduced into the story (in the first book, I had included him in the beginning by having Deidara say, “I have to go find Sasori, he left an hour ago,” he was just going to also leave the story plot at that point). I continued with Sasori because Sakura was already at an emotionally unstable and insecure time, and now came this new ninja who out of nowhere—kissed her?! Once his actual plot becomes clear, she learns to dislike him severely.

In the sequel, he was originally supposed to show up half way through the story when she arrived in Konoha, but I decided that would be too sudden and he needed time for character development so that you could learn more about him. He is again there to mess with Sakura’s emotions and leave her confused.

Q: Throughout Love Has Turned to Hate, Sakura seems bewildered and is forced to figure things out both emotionally and mentally, as well as the physical reactions around her. What’s the purpose of writing the story this way? What do you think it achieves?
A: The sort of feeling I was trying to convey through this was one of confusion, and almost having her in a dreamy state of mind. She still hasn’t quite accepted the fact that her lover has died and she lets out these emotions by either dreaming of him, or by reading too deeply into what other people are doing or saying. She is supposed to seem like she’s always lost in a large crowd, that feeling of loneliness and searching!

Q: What about the dream sequences? To what end do they serve the book?
A: This is my way of relaying memories or thoughts without having Sakura do another flashback—I completely hate writing flashbacks because they always feel cheesy when I write them! Also, it seems to show a bit of foreshadowing and adds a darker element to some parts of the story (not to count that I get to write for Itachi also in these!)

Q: Are you planning to write a third book to the series, or will you be moving on to another book?
A: A third one? I haven’t even truly thought that over yet! To be honest, I wrote the last chapter to the sequel when I wrote the last chapter to Fear May Turn to Love because I knew exactly how I wanted it to be! Although continuing the story is a very interesting idea for me, I would like to expand into different forms than just love, mystery and depressing things!

Q: What are advantages and disadvantages for writing a fanfiction?
A: The advantages definitely are the fact that the world and the characters are already set up for you! All that you have to do is come up with a story plot, add a lot of detail and WHAM! You’ve got a fanfiction! The disadvantages are the fact that the characters you are writing for have been previously plotted out and their emotions and habits have become well known to your audience before you wrote it, it confines you to a certain style and that some times is hard to work around!

Q: What do you think about the folks in the Literature section and the section as a whole?
A: They are all wonderfully supportive and can help you if you are weaker in some types of poetry or styles of writing!! The mods are wonderful at keeping the Lit section from becoming a pile of spam and they are extremely sweet when it comes to reviewing! As for the other members, they are really amazing writers that know exactly what they’re doing, while writing and when commenting; a critique is not frowned on because everyone knows it’s just to help you improve!

The section it’s self is a very inspiring place, it’s a wonderful place to unwind and let all of your troubles go!

Q: Why do you post your works in the Literature section?
A: Because I love to receive reviews! That’s the thing I look forward most when I post a new piece. I can’t wait to hear what parts they enjoyed, and what parts I need to improve on! The people on it are so kind and helpful!

Q: What do you think someone gains by posting in the Literature Section?
A: Great creative advice, you gain ways to progress your writing skills, and also helpful tips that lend you a bit of insight on how to write a certain style, or how to lengthen or shorten a piece. You also gain, in a way, friends; because as you post, you get to know your readers too!

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations?
A: I greatly look forward to the day when I can go into a book store and see someone reading a piece of my published work and laughing, crying, or feeling other emotions that have been caused by my writing! That’s one of my biggest goals in life! Of course, first I have to finish High School and get through College!

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give about writing?
A: Just to write about something you are extremely passionate about, like hard-core dancing (Cody_Crimson!!), or Haiku’s (like Cloud_Envy!!), the important thing is to establish a style, or a genre that can easily be known as your own, no questions asked!

Q: Anything you’d like to say to your friends and fans on NM?
A: Of course! I’d like to thank everyone in the Lit section for inspiring me to continue writing, you kept me passionate about it when for a few weeks there, I kind of dropped it. I’d also like to thank the ‘visitors’ that keep on hanging out in the Lit section and confusing me into thinking someone is viewing something when they aren’t- lol!

greencat's stories:

Love Has Turned to Hate( the sequel to fear may turn to love)

fear may turn to love( an ita/saku fanfic)

[Yachiru]

Soul Society In-Character Interview: Nicho Kiennes

The man was of average height, and much like one of the Second Divisions' little "secrets." He resembled what may considered a ninja of sorts. He wore all black, including a face covering that left only his eyes and dark brown hair exposed. Unlike what one may think, however, he had been invited into the office in which he now stood.. the office of one Nicho Kiennes, Second Division Captain (Taichou) of the Gotei 13 in Soul Society.

In his hand was a paper stamped with a seal from Central 46…this meeting was obviously official, and was meant to be distributed to the masses in the form of a newsletter article detailing the forthcoming interview.

The man bowed his head, accepting a seat across from Nicho's desk before beginning to speak in a deceptively tenor voice.

"Thank you for having me, Nicho Taichou. Central is glad that you have accepted the invitation to take part in this society-wide interviewing process of Shinigami. As you know, Shinigami will be chosen at random and interviewed on a few important matters, as well as more menial ones. Your name was the first drawn, and so here we are. Shall we get started?"

He was cautiously cordial…this interviewer, he held no Zanpakutou, and therefore he was obviously not a Shinigami. Likely, he was just another diplomat, despite his odd clothing choice.

"What is your official title?" He would ask softly, before rambling off a few more formal questions in quick succession, "How long have you been in this position? Have you always been a member of this Division? Could you perhaps explain a bit about this Division's goals?"

Nicho took a moment, pausing in thought, to look over the interviewer. First impressions with this sort of thing were key in order to see exactly what the person might ask...to determine if they might go too far. Either way, the questions started indirect and it would be rude to ignore them much longer.

"My title is Captain of the Second Division. Due to the Division's structure, I am also referred to as Commander in Chief. I haven't always been a member of this Division. No, I started in the Sixth Division and was a teacher in the Academy. However, my key skills have always reflected this Division. I'd say the goal of the Second Division is to protect Soul Society's people. Although, the thing that stands out most is that we carry out punishments or capture rouge Shinigami. We also play a key part in information gathering and in protecting the noble houses. For this reason, the division is split into five sections, so that we can pursue all of these goals at once."

Nicho didn't waste much time, he was known for his long speeches and lessons. He had been a teacher and also had learned that a lot can be hidden behind words, and even sometimes the truth can hide other truths.

The interviewer scribbled his notes while nodding his head in response, then skipped to a few…well, strange questions.

"What is your favorite food? If propositioned with a choice to drink or sleep, which would you prefer to partake in and why? Do you find sandals to be unreliable in the heat of battle?"

Raising an eyebrow the Taichou simply smirked and poured a glass of water for himself.

"I like sushi but I'd rather have sleep, we don't get much around here as we are mostly night people." Grinning at his own joke he continued ignoring any look the interviewer's eyes might have given. "The Second Division wears special shoes made for fast light travel so I wouldn't know. However, I hear that they can in fact help fighting."

The interviewer had given him a bit of look.. more so out of curiosity than anything. But then, back to questions that were a bit less odd.

"Do you have a Zanpakutou? If so, what is its form and do you know its name? If so, what is its name? Have you attained Shikai and/or Bankai? Do you have any specialties, such as elemental control or a well-known advantage over other skills, such as incredible speed or strength?"

Nicho decided he'd rather not answer directly, such things were pretty private to a Shinigami. A Zanpakutou was part of a man's soul, as was it's name and it's abilities. So, he decided to simply state what people had seen in the battles of the past.

"Its an air type. I can manipulate air in a radius; like, at the range you're at, I could remove the air you try to breathe in." A slight glimmer crossed Nicho's eyes before he continued. "I have Bankai and Shikai. Taichou's normally require both to take command."

He took a pause now, working hard to scribble any answers that have thus far been given. Soon, however, he was back in the act. He was still interested in Nicho's Zanpakutou, but he had taken the mention of stolen air as a bit of a…hidden threat. Perhaps Nicho was hiding his true feelings for the sake of politeness.

”Would you say that Soul Society is under constant threat from outside forces? If so, who and why do you believe they are so dangerous? For all of our readers out there that are not up-to-date on the goings-on of Seireiti, could you please update them on what you believe is the most pressing information? Are there any Shinigami that you find yourself more closely linked to than others?”

This was more serious, but given what this was for it was understandable, so Nicho nodded, taking a sip of water and leaning back in his chair.

“We are always under attack. Shinigami are soldiers in an army that even the Fourth division has its part to play in. They are battle trained, even despite being healers. Currently we are heavily fighting with a Vastrolord who has taken power of the vacuum created from our past wars and also the current World War in the Human World. We are also under threat from other foes such as Vaizard, Arrancar and Quincy. I would like to stress, however, that such things happen often in the history of our kind and we are still here today, getting stronger and consistently winning.”

Nicho's face was quite dead-pan like any leader making a statement on war. Finally, he smiled, and answered the last question with a more friendly air.

"Well, we all get closer in times of war. I would give my life for my Division, as they would for me, and I am certain that goes for other Taichous and their men. The more we fight, the closer our bond, and that is why we win. Trust and loyalty are something Hollows never understand. Evil always turns on itself.”

And then it became a bit more personal…perhaps a dangerous proposition, seeing as who he was speaking to. "Have you ever killed fellow Shinigami, and if so, could you please explain why? Has there ever been a situation you were in where it may have been thought that you were perhaps committing treason against Soul Society? Have you ever lied to your allies for the sake of your own personal gain?"

He'd been waiting for this question. Nicho knew you didn't interview this Division without something like that popping up, so Nicho simply fox-grinned and carried on in a light tone.

"There is no hiding what we do here. Yes, I can say many of us in this Division have killed other Shinigami. Everyone knows that. However, what tends to be over looked is that before such a thing happens, that person would have to have committed a serious crime. If the Sixth Division doesn't capture them for trial, Central issues us with a warrant for their life and we carry it out. Death is a serious thing and only serious offenses get someone the death penalty. Mostly we just capture Shingiami and give them to Sixth to put in jail. I uphold the law very strictly; some might say too strictly. I have never done something to purely benefit myself, it has always been for the good of Soul Society and for the protection of those I love."

The word ‘love’ was a strong word and Nicho used it deliberately to mask the truth that all his Division knew... He'd kill any of them if he was ordered to.

The speed at which he was rambling out the questions was fairly impressive, but even the interviewer had to take a pause at that response! He had heard…things…about the 2nd Division. Perhaps nothing too terrible, but enough to wonder if any of these responses were true or simply fabrications to keep a good light shining on the Second Division Taichou.

"Are there any Shinigami within this Division that you believe hold enough promise to perhaps one day take your place or take control of another Division? Are there any Shinigami that you have taken enough interest in to train solely as pupil and master? Which Division do you believe is the strongest? Following along that trail of thought, would you please express your views on each of the present Taichous, as well as any other Shinigami you feel the need to?"

Nicho scratched his chin and shrugged.

"I'd really like to think that all the people I taught as a teacher in the Academy could some day become brilliant Taichous. Many Shinigami already have the respect to become one, they just need the skill that comes with age and knowledge. As for my views on the other Taichous? What can I say? Zoey is the oldest and wisest Taichou, although she is hot-headed. She is wise, because normally what she says is correct, so if you ignore it, you are a fool. Axel became a Taichou at the same time as myself. A proud warrior, his fighting spirit gets him in trouble but he has a big heart—one that will fight until his dying breath for the people he cares about. Hara, well he has not been around much but he has the power, and I am certain he will find the right path to take Sixth Division in as it has faced hard times. His Vice Captain (Fuku-Taichou) Kisada is a strong warrior, and has a strong will. He has held up the Division through a lot and is one to watch in the future."

Nicho took a long drawn gulp of water. He didn't mention 4th because he didn't know much about the new Taichou. For that reason he preferred not to talk about something he didn't know.

Maybe he was trying to catch him off guard, but the questions again became rather strange and tame.

"What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Have you ever been in a situation where you simply gave up on whatever it was that you were pursuing at the time? Do you enjoy any sort of entertainment, such as music or theater?"

Laughing on the outside, Nicho didn't really care about these questions and waved them off.

"I don't have time for hobbies. I read a lot and study to get stronger. My time is for my Division and my life is their's."

But then a bit of a curve ball from the interviewer.

"Do you remember anything of your life as a human? If so, could you perhaps explain the circumstances of your death, as well as inform readers of a small history of your life?"

"I was never a human. I was born here in Soul Society; I believe they call us 'pure bloods,' as my father and mother were Shinigami. However, I was given away to a family in Rukongai. I have a step brother and two step sisters. They are younger than me and I take care of them here in the Division."

Nicho left it at that as he had no wish for the “viewers” to know his whole life story. In all honesty, he cared little for his past.

At this point he looked up from his list and sat it down on the table, in case Nicho needed to reference it to answer any questions he hadn't kept up with. The interviewer, however, continued to scribble notes down on a pad of paper he had brought with him, skewing his attention between his writing and Nicho's responses.

It seemed the man had come to the end of his questions and Nicho had lost his patience. He had a war to manage and information to pass on.

"Now if you'd excuse me, I have much work to do, you know the way out." Nicho said nothing more, not getting up or caring what the man did now, but simply went back to his books.

The interviewer nodded his thanks, bowing three times while backing up towards the door. A few more notes were jotted down before he exited following a fourth bow, and began his trek back to the reporting room.

[ShadowNIN]

Soul Society In-Character Interview: Hyura

Role playing is a great part of this forum. It has a great and dynamic community of people that are apart of this phenomenon. The one that I'm proud to bring you is a very good role player and friend. Hyura, she is skilled with the pen and kind hearted. She is a young warrior who's wit is as sharp as her words.

Exposed: How long have you been apart of SS and NM?

Hyura: hahahaha
Almost soon to be a year in January.

Exposed: Did you rp before you joined SS?

Hyura: Yes

Exposed: How was that experience different (good or bad) from NM?

Hyura: It was good, very good experience for me. To be prepared for me when I encountered NM and when I joined it.

Exposed: You’re are one of the few girls in SS; how does this change or alter you experience around us guys?

Hyura: *Chukles Uneasily* Well, rping as Mana and being a girl in SS is quite fun and quite an experience as well. It changes my experience because I get a lot of attention *swirly eyes* from the guys, for my charrie, and myself. Mana is quite popular not that I mind hahahaha. And tis quite fun as well. I never experienced this much attention, very nice. =) and fun to rp around guys.

Exposed: Could you name off a few members that you would consider your friends in SS?

Hyura: Alrighties, hmmm…Well, there is ShadowNin(You), Nicho(Gareth), YaChiru, Nika, Sasuke's Legacy, Gaja 90, Martzu, Ebs, Zoey, Shane, and lots more from my Fourth Hokage FC!!!!!!

Exposed: For those that wouldn’t know Mana could you describe her and her power (shikai and bankai...and such) for the readers?

Hyura: Mana Hikaru, is her full name. Her powers, well, she specializes in Kidou and speed. Her shikai's elemental is Wind. And, she has quite a powerful shikai that’s also beautiful and graceful. When she releases her shikai, she calls, "Awaken and Rise, Amaunent!!! (Amaunent is the name of Wind Goddess). She currently only knows the first two forms of her shikai. As for her bankai...she is not quite there.

Yet. But, it will be quite a surprise. I will let you know that.

Hmmmm.....a bit of background….Well, Mana, Is currently holding the 3rd seat in the 2nd Division of the Investigation Dept. As everyone knows, the 2nd Division serves as the blade of SS. She will defend by her taichou's and comrades side.

Exposed: As we know your active in SS thread, is there any other places you enjoy in nm?

Hyura: Of course, the beloved, FC thread I am the owner of—the 4th Hokage FC that keeps on growing each day. I also love adding poems in the literature section, and rping in KM.

Exposed: When you are offline, what do you do for entertainment?

Hyura: I listen to my ipod, read novels, mangas, watch TV dramas, write stories, poetry, and draw, also play basketball and hang out with friends.

Exposed: How about the love scene; do you like being single or taken?

Hyura: hahahaha, Mmmmm, I like...being taken. Yes. I am =) Just like a week ago. We’ve known each other like for years. And he finally asked, and I said yes.

Exposed: I know that your in collage; what major are you and how is that treating you?

Hyura: My major is going to Be Secondary Education.Its very stressing, And I am taking a lot of AP courses still and I am always tired but I am doing my best juggling school, work and family. So, its treating me fair in a way I guess.[/color]

Exposed: As time progressed will you keep up with NM and SS?

Hyura: I am finally able to come back to NM and SS, even with my illness. Because, i don't want to lose, to myself and my friends and let them down. So, I am juggling everything and getting rest. (Trying to at least). So, I will do my best to keep up!!!

Exposed: This was the funniest time I have had doing work for Exposed. Is there any last words that you have for our readers?

Hyura: Thanks for that hahaha. Last words, well in fact I do. No matter what problems any of you encounter, or obstacles you guys encounter, never lose to yourself or give up. Because, I never will. I have friends, who care for me a lot. And they won't give up on me. So I can't lose or give up. That's my promise to my self and them. So, please do your best whenever you encounter problems and obstacles.

Thank you!!! And Good-bye!!

[4thseal]

Literature Member Interview: OD Funk

The Book of Epic is written by an intriguing man—OD Funk. He’s definitely a character and has a very creative mind. What’s more, the book his has recently been posting in the Literature section carries deep tones of fantasy, and yet, is quite amusing. And, to top it off, there are a few similarities in the characters and some of Naruto and Bleach Mania’s members. Thus, the book is as complex and interesting as the author himself…

Q: What’s you’re RL name?
Grant Karl Riley

Q: What brought you to NM?
A: I wanted to leech free anime, then I realized I didn't like anime much... so, I found myself browsing the lit/rp secton, eventually I got hooked there.

Q: How long have you been writing?
A: Since about the age of 8ish, I don't really know the exact year.

Q: What do you get out of writing?
A: Enjoyment, and a lot of frustration, I usually find myself hating whatever I write about 3 paragraphs in…

Q: What authors/books have influenced you as a writer?
A: Lord of the rings…yeh, one of the first books read, picked it up about the age of seven, although, the one which has influenced me the most has to be H.G wells, The War of the Worlds, F****** EPIC book, if you haven't read it, please GTFO.

Q: What inspires you to write?
A: Funnily, nothing does….I just one day decided to write a story, and my teacher liked it, sort of…

Q: Where does the name OD Funk come from?
A: Well, I got it from a member in the RP section, Hara. One day, he simply dared me to name my account, OD Funk. Apparently…it's the real name of a Mexican friend of his, he's called Oddie Funk, but says Oddie like OD, or something to that fuck*** tune.

Q: What is the Book of Epic About?
A: There are clues in the title.

Use your f******* brains =P.

But…I'll give a “summary” I suppose, It's about the Epic founding of a great empire, well the first book is at least…it follows the journey of the three lords, Bob, Tim, and Grant, as they journey to a keep were the lords of the surrounding circular nations meet on pressing diplomatic matters, here they come under attack from a massive army, and are forced to fight for their lives…it's pretty f****** Epic, I encourage anyone who hasn't read it, to read it, or go die in fire.

Q: Where did the idea for this book come from?
A: Boredom/living in the lounge, what can I say, it's like my internet home, but with that said, I've been wanting to write some sort of fantasy epic tale.

Q: Are there any characters that possess similarities to our own Naruto Mania members?
A: F*** if I know, I just built the characters to my own amusement. People say they remotely share similarities with Tim and Bob, but I honestly didn't mean it to turn out like that.

Q: The books starts of with the meeting of Grant (the lord of GTFO) and Tim (the lord of Win) meeting. Then, they encounter Bob (the Lord of Tits). Why did you choose to start the story this way? Why these lords?
A: No reason> It's just the first thing which popped into my head, that's how I write actually…I usually jot down a few “cool” sounding chapter names, and then plod along them one by one, attempting to create and make sense story line to the names of the chapters.

Q: What about the strange God that appears in Chapter 5; can you divulge any information about him?
A: It's Yachi, blonde annoying f** of a god, basically.. likes locking threads yah know? Just change what he is as a mod, and put it into “god” context, so instead of threads, it's burning villages, instead of thread bans, it's mutilating…that kind of stuff.

Q: Then there’s the attack currently plaguing the lords, yet it’s unclear where exactly this foe came from…why did you write the attack in a such a mysterious way?
A: Entertainment, people like blood, am I right? Blood, mixed with comedy, I figured book one without any fighting would kind of suck.. needed a bit of death to lighten things up, also, yes, it does have somewhat of a plot reason which will be introduced in book two, but I'm not going to reveal it, just read.

Q: The last chapter you posted (chapter 7) is exciting and leaves of with a summon of some sort appearing…any hint’s about what’s to come?
A: Huge battle, death, fire, all that kind of crap, you'll have to read. It'll be far more Epic then the previous chapters

Q: What about the character recently reveled of Chris, Shane, and Whimsy…any hints about what purpose they’ll serve in this story?
A: They were placed more for comedy value then anything else, the scene with the women…the poly-morphing (turning goblins into sheep) and the little Bob 59 thing.

But yes, they will have serious rolls in the upcoming chapters, perhaps.. haven't really decided anything.

Q: The other two Lords, Rei (the Lord of Traps) and Krozar (the Lord of Bell-air), haven’t really been covered as much…what will they add to the story?
A: Lulz, lots of Lulz, of course. I havent a clue how or when I'm going to introduce the two... hopefully soon though, hopefully.

Q: This book is book 1 of 3, what do you have in store for your reader in the other books?
A: Oh, as always the first book will be the most boring, the second will be ground breaking, in the sense it will introduce alot of new characters, new battles, new enemies, etc.. then, book three will come around, and blow the other two books shitless with some sort of hand crafted book destroying.. device.. thing >.> or something like that, you'll just have to see, fuck.. I keep saying that don't I?

Q: Why is this book important to you?
A: It isn't really…just something to pass the time, although I am enjoying writing the chapters.

Q: What do you think about the folks in the Literature section and the section as a whole?
A: Don't know many of them, the ones I do know, I f***** hate their guys...no lol, seriously though, they're a sorted bunch of chaps, good stuff people.

Q: Why do you post your works in the Literature section?
A: To get praise! Nah, I haven't really posted before up until now. I was too spiteful of my own works. I always feel they're not good enough to be read by anyone but myself.

Q: What do you think someone gains by posting in the Literature Section?
A: They increase their writing skills I suppose, due to all the criticism they receive...

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations?
A: Marry my woman, have a kid, settle down as either a History teacher or Writer of some kind, that's about it, maybe die in some sort of Heroic moment…

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give about writing?
A: Never think, just do it. When I think about what I'm writing, I end up ruining it, just let your imagination do the writing, just let it flow.... f*** that was cheesy, okay scrap that, best bit of advice would be...

Never write while drunk, unless you're me of course, I do things better when drunk.

Q: Anything you’d like to say to your friends and fans on NM?
A: I have friends on NM? and fans!?!

Wow, I'm moving up in the world...

Well, I'd like to say f*** them, because they're only good for some quick lulz when I'm not masturbating or eating, wait, can I say masturbating? I've always wondered what the limits are for sexual reference on the forum…or swearing for that matter. I always fucking get infractions or god d*** b**** warnings for swearing. The mods should lighten the f*** up. I don't think my god d*** cussing upsets anyone, and if it does, they should f*** off and die already because they certainly shouldn't be on the net if some idiot British guy from half way around the world upsets them if he says their mumma sucks donkey c***...

You can read Book of Epic here:

Book of Epic

[Yachiru]

Soul Society In-Character Interview: Koi

A young girl, barely in her teens, would approach Koi. With bubblegum green hair and bright brown eyes, she was a scene from a comic book, and even while her voice remained shrill and impatient, her cautious gaze made note of the decades or more of time she had spent in Soul Society, unable to escape her young appearance and demeanor.

Koi smiled slightly as he got from his knees; he had made the meeting place for their talk the dojo. He had been training to master the art of the blank dojo. The green hair caught Koi’s attention, something that was rarely seen in the soul society but there were a lot of things you didn’t expect when you came to live here.

"Hello, Mister Koi! You know the deal, I figure, unless you don't.. in which case just answer the questions as I ask them!" She had no pen or paper with her, and with her hands clasped behind her back and a jolly swaying disposition, it was soon obvious that she meant to memorize the responses. That, or she had a recorder hidden on her minute person.

Koi bowed slightly when the young woman spoke her hello.

“I do remember the whole idea of this meeting; I hope my life or my answers won’t bore you.”

Koi smiled brightly, his red hair still a bit messed from the practice and his blue eyes shinning slightly in the light.

"Let's start slow! Can you please state your name, rank, division, and major areas of focus.”

“Slow, something you don’t hear in the 11th that often.”

She would twiddle her thumbs behind her back, and oddly enough, when Koi replied, her eyes seemed to flicker black. Perhaps even more oddly, she would repeat tidbits of information he spoke in a monotone fashion, replicating his voice perfectly, as if her body itself was some sort of recording device! Strange!

“My name is Koi. I am the Fourth seat of the 11th squad, and my talents are in the art of zanjutsu. If it wasn’t, I would have a hard time dealing with Zoey, especially if it was Kidou.”

Koi laughed slightly and waited for the next question from the young girl.

"Can you please state the name and type of Zanpakutou that you wield?”

“My Zanpakutou.”

Koi slowed pulled the blade from it’s sheath. The blade was nothing special, just like a normal katana.

“Well, my Zanpakutou isn’t too special, it looks just like a normal katana but there are a few differences. It’s about two inches longer than a normal katana and it weighs much more.”

Holding out the blade for the young woman to take, he smiled.

“No worries, they don’t bite.”

“The blade weighs more because the metal seems to be much denser, and if you touch the blade you can feel, instead of the normal cold of steel, a nice warmth to it. The handle is red and there are two strips of black on either side of the blade with a red phoenix carved on one side and a white one on the other. The name or actually names of my blade is Fenghuang and Ju-Jak, I have two spirits.”

“Have you achieved Shikai or Bankai. If so, would you be willing to divulge a bit of information about what they entail?" For someone with her appearance, she spoke like a secretary, even while her face expressed boredom and a desire to leave.

An eyebrow was raised when Koi heard the young reporter ask of his Shikai.

“Well, I have nothing to hide. My Shikai is fire based and by using my reiatsu I can increase the temperature and amount of flames that are released by my blade. I have one attack but I do not know it’s name so it is still wild.”

Koi reached out taking his blade and putting it away, awaiting the next question.

"Are there any people in Soul Society that have come to be mentors to you? Likewise, are there any people that look to you as a mentor? What do you believe makes a great role model, especially during a time of war such as now?"

“A mentor? Hmm, that is a tough question but it can be answered with one simple word, Zoey. I fought her in a training match at the 11th for my second fight and ever since she has been the level of power I wish to reach. She has shown many thing and put me through a lot of hardships that have strengthened me and made me very loyal to both the Soul Society and the 11th. I have no clue who would look up to me.”

Koi smiled with that last remark.

“If anyone does it would be a surprise to me.”

Her eyes continued flickering in some apparent mechanically-internal recording session.

"Do you have any hobbies? Could you please relate some of your favorites.. foods, drinks, seasons, times, elements.. anything, really, that you would care to talk about and think some adoring fans may care to know!"

Koi held in another laugh when the young girl spoke “adoring fans” thinking it would be rude.

“Umm I really don’t have much down time at the moment. Any time that I have free is either spent training or teaching new recruits to the 11th or being trained by Zoey. I would have to say a hobby would be reading, I wasn’t into reading Kidou books, but when Zoey had me study history of both warfare and tactics it started to catch with me. I’ve been reading a lot of books like that and books that my dojo has on certain moves and attacks.”

Koi started to rub the back of his head and smiled.

“Kind of lame, isn’t it?”

Koi smiled again.

Flicker flicker!

"There have been many rumors about how difficult Zoey-Taichou can be towards her Shinigami, do you believe that this is the case of an exaggeration of rumors and hearsay? Also, while on the subject of Taichous, do you have any issues with any present Taichous? Are some on the same page as you morally that you find to be deserving of their power, and are some completely devoid of the morality that a leader needs to have?"

“The rumors are very much true. If you think you can come into the 11th and get out without a scar on your body, you’ll be shown wrong by Zoey herself. The 11th is the Division of Zanjutsu, of fighting. You can’t be weak and Zoey makes sure that you are trained to be both strong physically and emotionally. The human world and Soul Society are rough; you need to be able to handle them. Umm, the other Taichous, hmmm. I haven’t really met that many of them at this point, but I know if they weren’t the right person for their seat the Central 46 would make sure to get rid of them. I have met a few and from the ones I’ve met, I can’t say a single bad thing about them.”

She was now entering the zone where the deeper, more personal questions came to light.

"Are there any Shinigami that you dislike intensely, perhaps enough to say that you hate them? Likewise, are there any that you believe have the potential to become one of the best facets of Soul Society? Soul Society, of course, is not a democracy, and is ran by Central 46 - do you believe this is a bad thing or a good thing to have men making decisions that do not directly experience the effects of what they decide?"

Ah, the personal questions come at last…

“I don’t hate anyone and there really isn’t anyone I dislike. On the other hand, I have met many people that I believe will grow to be very powerful and very helpful over the years. Kaisen, a man that both trained me and taught me so much, will only grow in power and become a great man. Johon, I saw this man battle and fight with everything he was and I respect him greatly. A new comer to the 11th, Fritz, is someone I see a lot of myself in and will someday be a very great and powerful man. He shows a lot of compassion, something you don’t see that often in a warrior. I know there are mostly a lot more people that would come to mind for this question but I can’t think of anymore at the moment.”

Koi smiled slightly, waiting for what was to come next.

Curve ball.

"Have you ever had to kill a fellow Shinigami? If so, was this out of self-defense, or an order, or for personal gain? During this war, have you personally experienced the front lines of battle in either Rukongai or the Human World?"

The smile faded and a small shiver went down his spine. The memories started to flood back to him, something he had tried to forget but wouldn’t leave his heart.

“I’ve had to. Well, I myself didn’t do it, but I helped with the death of a Shinigami. She had gone to the Human World and killed and taken many human lives and souls. She wouldn’t accept defeat and the only way to stop the death and murder was her own death.”

Taking a deep breath, Koi collected himself for the second part of the question.

“Yes I was in the front lines in the Human world many times over. Because I was a seated member at the time and, at that, a part of the 11th, I was sent out to fight many times. I watched as both hollow and fellow Shinigami blood was spilled on the battle field. I would guess I might need to change my first answer, I’ve had to kill many of the 11th members who were not strong enough and started to become hollows themselves. You only know pain when you’ve had to kill a friend because there was no other way.”

It wasn't obvious if she was trying to ease the tension or not, but the little girl began swaying about once more, almost humming her questions loftily.

"How many Hollows do you think you've brought salvation to over the many years of your service? Have you ever had any vacation time, or lazed about to forget the problems of the world around you? Have you ever taken the time to just.. stare at the clouds?"

Koi’s smile slightly returned to his face.

“Well, I don’t really have an idea on a number. I wasn’t actually able to kill a full fledged hollow on my own until I started training here, any time before and I would have been ripped to pieces. But the 11th doesn’t have free time for people; you are either training or training others. The last time I actually laid down was when I was the 4th being healed after a hard mission. If Zoey ever caught me lying around staring at the clouds, I would wake up to find myself in a dark hole, naked, and surrounded by hollows.”

Koi laughed both because it was a joke and in all reality, very true.

In full frolic now, she danced around, singing her questions like the young diva she seemed to be - even while her brown eyes continued flickering with flashes of black.

"Are their any Divisions aside from the Eleventh that you could see yourself being a member of? Can you imagine yourself ever being a Taichou, either of the Eleventh or another Division? If you had the power, would you direct the going-ons of the war differently than they are presently being handled? If given reign over Soul Society, what do you think you would change to make it a better place? Are their any laws or boundaries that you believe should be removed or improved upon for a safer unlife?"

“If the 11th didn’t have Zoey as it’s Taichou, then you would most likely find me in the 6th Division or the 7th. I’m not a big hand-to-hand combat type of person, but they are a very strong Division and I would have been honored to be a part of it.”

A grin formed on Koi’s face.

“Zoey knows that I’m fighting to become strong enough to both defeat her and become the Taichou of the 11th squad. It has always been a dream of mine to do that. But I believe the war is being directed the way it needs to be and I wouldn’t change a thing. There isn’t anything you can really change to make things better, the laws have been placed to protect us, the Human World, and all the other souls in Soul Society.”

She stopped her dancing and sing-song actions abruptly and plopped down on her rump - legs crossed and arms crooked as she leaned forward with her palms on her thighs.

"And finally, but most importantly, if you had the strength to compare to any Shinigami in all of Soul Society, which one would you like to be considered an equal to? Or rather, are there any that you believe you already are an equal to?"

Koi smiled as he sat down on the ground in front of her and again started to rub the back of his head.

“I’m not really sure who I would consider an equal. There are many people that could defeat me in battle but I’m no push over either. Really, I’m not sure at the moment. I haven’t been faced up against many other Shinigami, just usually a hollow or two or three. So really in all honesty, I have no idea.”

Koi smiled a little more.

The little girl hopped up, her eyes finally ending their flickering. “Thank you, Mister Koi! I will deliver this information at once!” She bowed and skipped off, smiling.

[4thseal]

Literature Member Interview--Martzu

The Literature Section Interview this month is with a real great member who was nice enough to give us her take on writing as well as a peak into her life. She’s one of the kindest around and, she knows her stuff. Not to mention that she’s a very interesting Lady as whole. I’m speaking, of course, about—Martzu!

Q: Where are you from?
A: I am from a small town in south-east part of Finland.

Q: What brought you to NM?
A: Originally boredom with little help from Google. I was looking for Naruto downloads and ended up here first as user of downloads, then after few months, I ended up looking at what was going on in the forum. First, this was just a way to keep up my English language skills, but later on it turned out to be just another way to have fun.

Q: How long have you been writing?
A: Since the age of 6 or 7, when I first learned how to write.

Q: What do you get out of writing?
A: Frustration and headaches most of the time. But, then there are those rare moments when words flow well and I can express what I want to express. Enjoyment of those moments pays up awkward times...or at least I keep pretending so.

Q: What authors/books have influenced you as a writer?
A: Many writers have influenced me. I have to name Jukka Parkkinen, Reijo Mäki, Terry Pratchett. J.R.R. Tolkien, Juha Vuorinen, Raymond Chandler, Dashiel Hammet, and Juice Leskinen.

The book I have to name is Lord of the Rings. It has been one of my favorites, since I read it for the first time. Just how detailed background work Tolkien did to his world, it just shows amazing dedication to one’s work.

Q: What inspires you to write?
A: To put it short, life. What has happened to people around me and to me as well.

Q: Where does the name Martzu come from?
A: No big mysteries there; Martzu is my real nickname.

Q: Why do you write poems?
A: It is the most suitable way for me to express some of my feelings.

Q: The topic of your poetry tends to revolve around love and broken love, why do you choose these themes?
A: I have to admit, I haven’t really thought about it like that before. Do I really write so much about love? Well, I guess there is a point. I have been called very romantic person. So, I guess that partly explains it. Stories and poems of broken love, I suppose it is because I have seen so much sadness and imperfection when it comes to love. Just my way of dealing with it. My psychotherapy XD.

Q: Your poems tend to also be shorter than longer, is there any advantage to writing shorter poems?
A: My English poems tend to be short, somehow they just come that way. I presume that is partly because my English vocabulary isn’t that wide. My Finnish stuff can be longer and usually is.

I don’t think there is actually advance writing shorter poems; it’s more about style issue. And, shorter a form can be quite challenging as well. When you try to find suitable words to express what you want to say without overdoing it. And, make it understandable to your reader, too.

Q: Is there are certain perspective you like to take with your poems? For instance, do you prefer writing from a women’s point of view rather than a man’s perspective?
A: I like to write from someone’s perspective. I don’t like to write things objectively. Genders or species don’t play big part when it comes to writing for me. I have even written bedtime stories to my godkid from an animal’s perspective.

Q: Your style is also unique, and carries great word choice and somewhat depressing tones; how did you develop this style?
A: I'm Finnish, I'm supposed to be gloomy and depressed (24/7!) XD. So my “style” comes quite naturally for me. I was born with it. Seriously, I write most when I am depressed or feeling down, so it reflects in my stuff also.

Q: Is there a specific form or rhyme scheme that your particularly like to use in your poetry?
A: I don’t think so. At least I haven’t noticed myself.

Q: What’s the hardest thing about writing poetry?
A: For me it’s staying on topic. I have noticed many times that I have written about many things bothering me in one poem. And it makes me confused. If someone else would see those poems, my wild guess is they would be even more confused.

Q: Do you ever write short stories?
A: When I just have time and idea.

Q: Ever think of trying to get your poems published?
A: When I was kid, I dreamed of being publishing writer or writing as a profession. But later I realized, if I was forced to write about issues I didn’t give a crap and had deadlines (those horrors of all horrors), it would take the fun out of it from me. So, I just keep writing as a hobby. Publishing stuff in NM is quite enough for me.

Q: What do you think about the folks in the Literature section and the section as a whole?
A: <3 <3 <3 I really love how folks are ready to read and give critique, advises, pats to back, and generally be very supportive in Literature section. You get feedback, support, and help in such a lovely way.

Q: Why do you post your works in the Literature section?
A: To get critique and feedback. Sometimes it hurts, but most of the time I feel positively surprised when others find aspects to my works that I didn’t and couldn’t have noticed myself.

Q: What do you think someone gains by posting in the Literature Section?
A: Feedback. It helps really a lot when others give their opinion to your work. Where did you do well and where don’t.

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations?
A: Have a boring, dull, average life. I have had my fair share of excitement in life, thank you. And, when it comes to writing, I hope to have funsies with it for the longest of time. And, hopefully, maybe even write a book someday. But, just maybe...

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give about writing?
A: Get a notebook and carry it with you all the time. Write down ideas and silly facts, basically, everything that draws your attention. You never know when something early written down comes out again as an idea for something bigger.

Q: Anything you’d like to say to your friends and fans on NM?
A: Friends and fa... Fans? *spruits coke to the screen* Geeh, I hope to have lots of funsies in NM with you all and getting to know all the lovely people in NM a bit better.

Thank you Martzu!

[poem] Frostbite

poems - Broken promise land & Goodbye

[poem] why

[poem] Addiction

[poem] Bruised, but not broken

[poem] woe

poems and such - random stuff

[Yachiru]

Soul Society In-Character Interview: Kaisen

"Hey, A***OLE, where the f*** are ya!?"

The echo rang through the halls, as Central’s chosen reporter walked the halls of the Seventh Division cautiously, searching for the owner of the voice. He was a huge man, seven feet tall, wearing what resembled Shinigami robes with a slight hue of blue to them. Rounding another corner in the hallway, he saw a man walking; his pants were torn to shreds, not covering quite as much as they were meant to, just as a lack of a shirt exposed a built chest. A sword with what seemed to be a dragon wrapped around the scabbard clung to the man’s belt, as the shirtless mean neared the confused interviewer, looking in doors with an obvious irritation to his eyes as he passed them by.

The reporter scratched the back of his large head, fingers digging through thick black hair as he moved to intercept the man, holding up a notepad and pen as he did so.

"Oi, you'll have to hold on, I’m busy now" the shirtless man responded to the larger man’s advances in a curiously angry tone. The reporter knew not to push the issue at the time, his burly body shifting to lean against the hallway wall, as the man with what appeared to be a 3rd seat badge wrapped around his arm disappeared into the Taichou’s office.

A short while later, the Taichou exited from the office at a quick pace, startling the reporter, as he merely stomped off. Moments later, the original man stepped out of the office, the badge that had marked him as the 3rd seat was gone, and now he had the Fukutaichou badge adorned in its place.

"Oi, you’re still here? Whadaya want?" he asked as he moved down the hallway, the reporter in tow.

"I'm here for your interview for Central, Kaisen Tenshu."

Kaisen looked back, glaring before something seemed to click in his head. "Oh yeah, that s*** that I got the Hell butterfly about a while ago. You bas***** sure are slow, ya know that?" he said, continuing to move with a hidden purpose.

"Well,” the reporter replied in his deep voice, “seeing as you’re in a bit of a rush, I'll just get started right away. First question: how did you come to the Soul Society?" His pen was ready against the notepad as they walked.

"How the f*** do you think? I was human, I died, bam!, I'm here. That information is hazy even to me. Next question" he pressed, obviously trying to rush along the interview.

"Okay, who do you respect the most?"

Kaisen stopped, looking back at the reporter. "I respect the Taichou of my Division, first and foremost, as well as every single qualified member of the rest of the Seventh Division. Other then that, I give respect only to those who deserve it."

Eye contact had been made between the two, but the reporter was able to keep himself stoic and firm as he continued. He didn't like to show emotions, especially fear… but for some reason, this man was unlike the others he had talked to. He felt if he said the wrong thing, he would wake up a month later, breathing through a tube. "Next question, then, do you have anyone you consider a rival?"

Kaisen had already begun to move again, and he mulled that question over. Stopping at a wardrobe rack, he pulled a shirt out, ripping the sleeves off with his hands, before sliding it over his shoulders. "Bhavahara was once my rival, back in the days of the academy, but he went soft. He's a medic in the Fourth Division now. Although, from what I hear, he is the mastermind behind the newer battle medics the Fourth seems to be so proud of. Other than that, my biggest rival in my book is the man I aim to overcome, the Taichou of the Seventh, Axel." He began to move again, as it seemed he was done with this stop.

"Next question: what is your Zanpaktou’s name, and what are your Shikai and Bankai abilities, if you have them?"

"Don’t ever ask me that again," Kaisen simply stated, as the sound of metal scraping was heard behind his voice, a warm steel blade suddenly pressed lightly against the reporter’s neck. A thin line of blood seeped from where the blade met flesh. "That information is private, and shall stay that way."

It must have been a strange sight to see, a man that resembled a refrigerator being told off by a well-built man at least 6 inches shorter, his sword brandished against his neck openly and deliberately. Despite the steadily growing anxiety the reporter felt, he continued on with a shaky voice, "N-next question… What do you think of the present Taichous and Fukutaichous, and any Shinigami of note?"

Kaisen held his blade firm as he answered, "They all have their ups and downs. Nicho is just weird in my book, too calm for his own d*** good. Ashley of the Fourth is a nutcase; that b**** can hold a grudge. Hara of the Sixth seems very much like a human government official, or at least last time I saw him… corrupt. But if I remember right, he went off to train, and hasn’t been seen in years. Axel is my leader, and although he’s f****** crazy, it wouldn’t be as fun any other way. And Zoey… she’s just a bitch; hard as hell on everyone too. But, they all have their roles. As for Fukutaichous, I don’t know many of them, 'cept Bhav and Johon, but I only know them through fighting, really."

The reporter’s head began to let forth beads of sweat, as it became apparent that Kaisen’s Zanpaktou would not be lowered until they were done. "What is the primary goal of the Seventh Division?"

Kaisen exposed that cocky grin he usually wore. "That’s simple: to show these foolish children who think that being a Shinigami is based all around reiatsu and kidou that relying on such trivial things makes you weak. The only power that is truly needed in this world is one’s own physical strength." As Kaisen said that, the blade moved slightly away from the reporter’s neck, thrusting forward in a small motion, after nothing more then a flex of Kaisen’s powerful muscles. The wall behind the reporter tore open from nothing more then the power from the attack. "That’s called ‘point break,’ by the way" he said as the blade came back to rest on the reporter’s neck once more, his gradually-relaxing body stiffening straight back up, fingers moving quickly he wrote down the name of the attack.

"Next question… Do you have a family? If so, who are they?"

The Fukutaichou glared as he decided whether or not to answer that question. "I have a woman, Jen of the Seventh. I have a son, Alexavier Tenshu. He is four and at the Academy; one of its youngest ever recorded, I believe. Other than that, I consider those I have made bonds with here, in this afterlife, to be my family… those such as Axel, Bhavahara, Koi, Leo, Tyler, Mana to a lesser extent, and many more which I haven't the time to list for the likes of you. But take note, I will kill anyone who uses those names against me. I will rip their flesh from their body, inch by inch, and then force feed it to them before they die.”

The reporter gulped and furrowed his brows as he noted the look in Kaisen’s eyes. The killing intent was stifling and wore heavy on his shoulder. "F-F-Finally… What advice can you give to up and coming Shinigami who may look up to you?"

"Hah! That’s simple," Kaisen said, as he finally lowered the blade, sliding it back into its sheath. "Don't let the reiatsu craze take you over. There are many things that you can’t achieve when you rely on that nonsense. Become powerful in your own way, and set your goals high. Pick someone who obviously far outclasses you and don’t stop until you overcome them in strength and ability, even if it means studying under them." Kaisen looked into the Fukutaichou office they had reached. Jen was still in there, and she seemed busy, so he waved goodbye to the now ex-Fukutaichou, then moved to the door. "Now, I’m done answering Central’s questions. Get the f*** outta my division."

As he said those final words, he lifted his foot up, kicking the massive man square in the a**, launching him towards the Division’s front gate. The reporter, perhaps thanking existence itself that he had made it out alive, quickly rushed away and out of sight without even the slightest glance back.