Shadow Fire

Traversing across Hyrule Field was tiring work, the two children dodging Pea Hats and Stalbabies. However, they eventually made it to Zora's River, and Link saw a familiar shape in one of the trees. It's that owl again... I must be going the right way...

A Slow AwakeningThe earth begins to rumble softly, the slight tremors instantly catching the attention of The Chosen, both of whom can sense the source. The day of reckoning is drawing ever closer. The fearsome Kusai is beginning to discover her potential. A massive surge in power emanates from the very corner of the globe she slumbers in, and this does not even come close to her true power. Shadow Fire and ZethN64, both aware of this occurrence, continue to prepare, although now in great haste, for it will not be much longer before the terrifying power is once again unleashed upon the planet.

Love that show. :3

Costly DistractionsWith fearsome power, the great Shadow Fire once again launched his assault on Finlandcycles and the Evil Magistrate. In spite of the recent increase in power from a mystic source, a majority of people were subdued. However, it seemed fate was trying to shake up the balance, as both Naxylldritt and Blinx were spared from meeting the same fate. Naxylldritt was hit with a spell that should have subdued him, but it seemed the spell lacked its true force, the attack less effective. On the other hand, Blinx was attacked, but the spell missed entirely, giving him the opportunity to attack. It is not known how this came to pass, but if it continues, the prophecy will almost certainly be fulfilled. Shadow Fire returns to his dormant state, preparing for the impending day when he will return to his true form, and reveal just how much power he was suppressing.

A Magical MysteryThe great protector was awoken, feeling a mystical power traverse across the land. The source of this power was unknown, but it appeared to be an opposing force, as it gave everyone a power boost. As if to warn everyone who opposed him of the dangers, Shadow Fire chose a target, epicebilninja, attacking with a low level magical energy. Not enough to cause permanent damage, but enough to make an impression. The guardian still waits, doing whatever he can to prevent the awakening of the forboding Kusai's true powers, and stop the cataclysm that was foretold.

OFF TOPIC: Actually, these stats are merely to show off what will happen once Kusai is levelled up. When I decide it's time, Kusai will be awakened, set to a ginormously high level, and two weapons will be created, with there being an epic showdown. Also, the data provided for me was to see the max I could go. So now, I am returning to my previous level. Oh, and one more thing, I am not trying to protect Kusai, but PREVENT Kusai from being reawoken.

Actually, I was talking about the constant whining people do in regards to every game that is released within the series they play. Complaining about the disinterest the company has for a series that is one of the good ones? That's a legitimate complaint, and I accept that. Take Megaman Legends 3, for example. That game was receiving a lot of hype, and then Capcom decide that apparently, nobody is interested enough for it to warrant continuation. That is a legitimate reason to complain, and I will stand with you there. The people who complain about a certain shade of red in Mario's cap, or King Dedede being slightly less plump than he should be... those are who I was referencing, and I apologise for not making that clear.

Another day, another few additions to the community. This time, I would like to make note of two such things. A NEW SKIN Yes, I have added a new skin, and decided to make it the new default. Originally titled Evave, this is a beautiful dark skin that instantly got the approval of Naxy and Zeth. I have merely named it (for now, at least) The GCN, so if you aren't using the default option, and haven't checked it out, I suggest you do so now. It can be accessed by scrolling to the bottom of the site, and selecting Change Theme, and then The GCN from the menu that is provided. DONATIONS You may have already noticed it for about a week or so, but yeah. You can actually donate to the community. All donations are greatly appreciated, and go instantly back into the community. At the same time, you get a "Donator" marker on your name, which shows people what a generous person you are. Stay tuned for the future. I'm hoping to get a few more features added. Until then, ciao!

Countermeasures Activated!Defensive countermeasures have been activated. Initiating threat detection mode. Multiple threats detected! FINLANDCYCLES Casting Multi-Spell. Result: Threat eliminated. EVIL MAGISTRATE Casting Multi-Spell. Result: Threat eliminated. Standby mode enabled. Prevention, Phase IFor several days, the fearsome Shadow Fire remained dormant, but his ever-watchful gaze would soon be realised. Nary a week had passed, when he awoke, and turned his vicious power on Finlandcycles and the Evil Magistrate once more. The unexpected attack left both factions crippled, temporarily halting their plans as they recovered from the devastation that had befallen them. The future changed, there is no knowledge of how it has effected the prophecy. Will the calamity be unleashed once more, or have The Chosen prevented it permanently? The answer remains to be seen...

I think it's time I put in my two cents worth. First of all, I don't consider myself a "modern gamer". I am just a "gamer". Secondly, sure I do like zombies (L4D is an awesome series), and I'm all up for the whole war-based stuff too, but I'm an eclectic person. I will play almost every genre of game, save sports and racing (unless of course it's in the same vein as MarioKart and DKR). I have been playing Zelda and Mario since their debut almost 30 years ago. Yes... I quite literally played Mario as a baby. Sure, I died a lot, but yeah, still had fun. My only complaint with Zelda was with Zelda 2, and not that it was a sidescroller. I agree with the AVGN, with the bad parts being the level of confusion, difficulty, and retarded battle elements. However, that aside, I embraced EVERYTHING Zelda had to offer, same with Mario. I could care less what kind of game they release, so long as it is enjoyable. I am also a Sonic fan, and I enjoy practically every Sonic game that exists. Sonic 2006 has a good story, great visuals, and the BEST soundtrack found in a Sonic game. The gameplay however, was terrible, as we all know... but this is what happens when a game is rushed to meet an unrealistic deadline. That is my only complaint about that game, is that it's virtually unplayable. I never once complained about the Werehog in Sonic Unleashed, or about the entirity of Shadow the Hedgehog. Sure, I questioned the logic of some of it, but at the same time, I realised, "It's a game... it doesn't have to make sense. It's a fantasy world." There are a lot of people who complain, but they all lack the sophisticated logic of "JUST ENJOY THE EFFING GAME!" Ineffably, Nintendo is a business, and they will do whatever it takes to make more money. But regardless, any new Zelda/Mario/Pokemon/etc. kinda game that gets released, I will probably enjoy, with minimal to no complaints. Also, yes... there are a lot of zombie games. Why? Because zombies are a very heavily touched subject. Whether it's the dead come back to life, or The Infected, there will always be an appeal. ZombiU was totally awesome, and introduced innovative ways to play. The Left 4 Dead games have a more specialised AI system, which ensures no two games will ever play the same. Dead Island is... well... it's on a tropical resort, which is also kinda cool. Resident Evil, Silent Hill, and even film versions that deal with zombies are just downright awesome, some even being terrifying, others downright laughable. Shaun of the Dead, anyone? I would like to say that I disagree with Blinx regarding Mario. I still wanna see more. We need to keep Charles Martinet employed. Such talent is irreplacable. TL;DR: I enjoy playing just about every game. Everyone has opinions, but only the true fans will continue to show love and support, without continued whining and complaining.

Director: Alex Hutchinson Producers: Francois Pelland Music: Lorne Balfe Starring: Nolan North, Noah Watts, John de Lancie, Adrian Hough, Neil Napier, Nadia Verrucci Rating: Plot On October 31, 2012 (ironically, the release date for this game), Desmond Miles, his father, and two friends Shaun and Rebecca, discover the entrance to a temple that was used by the First Civilisation. However, shortly after entering, Desmond falls into an amnesic state, and is placed into the Animus, where he bleeds back to an ancestor in 1754, a British Noble named Haytham Kenway. Through this ancestor, he witnesses the assassination of an opera patron. Haytham, having obtained what he was after, sets sail for America. Upon arrival in Boston, he finds five men who are loyal to his cause, before saving the life of a young Native American woman. She will agree to assist Haytham, but only if he kills the General who is threatening her homeland. He does this, and afterwards, is taken to the cavern where he hopes to find what he is searching for, but is devastated to find out he does not possess what is needed to open it. The two soon succumb to their growing attraction to one another and find solace in one another's arms. Shortly afterwards, Haytham returns to Boston, where after some dialogue, a shocking revelation is discovered. In the present, Desmond awakens, the discovery surprising him. However, he agrees to return to the Animus, this time in 1760 as a young Native American boy, Ratonhnhaké:ton. After being attacked by the British, Ratonhnhaké:ton vows revenge for his mother, who was killed in the attack. Several years pass and he is shown what his village is protecting... an Apple of Eden. Through it, he is contacted by Juno, whom through a spirit quest, urges him to seek out the Assassins. Ratonhnhaké:ton heads for Boston, and seeks the aid of a former Master Assassin known as Achilles. Through years of mentoring, Ratonhnhaké:ton becomes an Assassin, and adopts the name Connor. He also learns that his father is Haytham Kenway, a man who threatens the very freedom that America strives for. Review Assassin's Creed III takes place directly after Assassin's Creed: Revelations. The game engine has been completely rebuilt from previous renditions, and in my personal opinion, for the better. There is so much this game has to offer in just the single player campaign alone. The story is vast, offering plenty of side missions that are relevant, as well as a great deal of extra abilities. It would be impossible for me to go over all of them in great detail without turning this review into a massive reference guide, but for what was changed, it certainly makes for a very diverse game, through which hours upon hours can be lost, travelling over the American frontier and completing missions. One such addition I quite enjoy is sea travel. Much like Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood and Assassin's Creed: Revelations, there are missions you can undertake, through which you can weaken the Templars' hold on the land, many which can be completed via sea. With Connor as captain, you take control of a majestic ship, and you can wage war on the open seas. Of course, you can also upgrade your ship to make it more powerful, as well as being more durable. I get great joy from firing broadside weapons at another ship, watching in delight as my shots sink them. Another addition I enjoy is the ability to hunt animals. Due to the great wilderness environment, it only seems natural that there are predators out there, aside from human enemies, as well as prey. Succcessful hunting can lead way to earning more money, which is VERY useful in this game. Assassin's Creed III has stunning visuals. With previous titles, traversing the landscape could be quite boring. However, the visual effects of AC3 put the other games in the series to shame. Not only do the environments look beautiful, but the weather also changes, giving a better feeling of the passage of time. Let me just say one thing; travelling the frontier at night time, during a thunderstorm is quite unsettling, especially when you need to be on guard against the wild predators that lurk about. At the time of writing this review, I have not yet finished the single player campaign, nor have I touched Multiplayer yet. However, I know I will still be in for a wonderful experience. Overall If you are fond of the Assassin's Creed series and do not have this game, you should be ashamed... or at least find a way to get the money to purchase it. Assassin's Creed III is the most entertaining game in the series, and I can forsee myself playing through, even after earning every last achievement.

Deadline ExtendedI have extended the deadline for this challenge for another 2 weeks. Hopefully this will see someone take the prize.

どういたしました。　

「The　GCN」にようこそ！ それとも・・・フランス語で・・・ Bienvenue sur le GCN!

Nearing DeadlineNot much time remains until the deadline. If you haven't finished the game yet, you'd best snap to it. Only a few days remain! Don't forget to send me your times via PM.

Chapter 5: AvailableChapter 5 is now available. 27033[/snapback] <- Click the image to view.

GLaDOS. Everyone loves that manaical AI. That slow-clap processor... aww yeah! Here's one for those who know... Esper Senne or Xeoverium?

Threat Detected!A threat has been made. Source located and identified as epicebilninja. Initiating countermeasures. EPICEBILNINJA Casting Blizzaga. Result: Threat subdued. Turning attention to Finlandcycles. FINLANDCYCLES Casting Multi-Spell. Result: Finlandcycles subdued. Initiating sleep mode.

Hey! Nice to see you again! To answer your question, no... you're not imagining things. I have indeed changed the logo, and even reworded a lot of the story. I didn't feel satisfied with how it was, but now, yeah. Anyway, I hope you enjoy, and stay tuned for Chapter 5, which I will be working on when I finish work tonight.

The Prophecy...It began countless ages ago. A force unlike any other, rising against the people of the world. The entire cosmos was in peril, until, as if a gift from the heavens, a creature with immense power was summoned forth, and defeated the mystic force. This creature, dubbed Shadow Fire by those it protected, its objective complete, returned to a peaceful slumber, and life returned to its harmonious state... for a time. It wasn't to be. It was foretold that the malevolent force would return, awakened by those who would seek to threaten the balance of the cosmos. To prevent this, the one known as Shadow Fire awoke, and began passing judgment on those who would attempt to reawaken the true power of the malevolent force, known throughout the land as Kusai. Years have passed, and this cycle continues. A new faction, one calling itself Finlandcycles has tasked itself with resurrecting Kusai, in an attempt to defeat it afterwards and claim eternal glory. Another faction, the Evil Magistrate, seeks to use whatever means to control the world, and is not above using Kusai to achieve it. Shadow Fire, awakening to his pre-programmed destiny, used his divine powers to enlist the help of one ZethN64, one who, while not as powerful, still contains enough power to uphold the balance of order. Together with his protégé, Shadow Fire again seeks to purge the land of greed and malcontent, and preventing a calamity that threatens all life in the universe. Please note: I created this topic to coincide with the battle mod that is installed here. I figured we could all have a few fun posts, kinda get in character a bit.

It would seem that some people need to... Check this out! Okay? Yeah? Alright. Anyway, to clarify things, the topic was created by someone from IBSkins, who is actually providing me with continued technical support.

Chapter 5: Temple of Flames It was even hotter inside the Temple of Flames. With the intense heatwaves, Link could only see a few feet ahead. Beyond that was all blurry, and in spite of the heat resistant tunic he wore, he was perspiring like mad. This is unbearable! I feel like I'm going to melt! The boy gave a soft pant as he wiped sweat from his brow. Moving forward, he cradled his broken arm protectively. Navi glanced at him worriedly. "Hey..." she mumbled. "Maybe you should see the Great Fairy now." The Hylian shook his head, and offered a strained smile. "It's no use..." he replied. "I can't use the ladder now. Even if I warped back outside, what would that get me, since I'd have to climb back down? I'd only burn myself again, and possibly break something more valuable than an arm." The fairy gave a thoughtful sound, seeming to contemplate Link's response, before giving a sigh of defeat. "You kinda have a point there." The two friends went silent once more, deciding it best to continue searching through the room to find the way forward. Naturally, all of the doors were locked, and Link couldn't help but feel something was off about that. It just doesn't make sense. As he glanced around at his surroundings, or at least the blurred renditions of them, he once again wiped sweat away. In desperation, he thought of an idea. I wonder... will this work? Navi stopped as she noticed Link withdraw the Ocarina of Time. Placing it to his lips, the boy played a familiar melody. The thousand years of raindrops summoned by this song are my tears... and the thunder that strikes the earth is my anger. His gamble paid off. Although inside, storm clouds appeared above them, and with a mighty flash of lightning, along with an almost deafening crash of thunder, the heavens opened up, and rain fell down. Some raindrops evaporated from the heat, but most of them made their mark. Link closed his eyes as he was drenched from the deluge. I'll probably regret this later, but... at least I'm not burning up anymore. The rain finally came to a stop, leaving Link and Navi totally soaked, but feeling somewhat comfortable. "Well..." the fairy muttered. "That's one way to cool down. Not complaining or anything, but next time, I'd appreciate a little warning in advance." A sly grin came to the Hylian's face. "Oh?" he teased. "Well, I seem to remember a certain fairy getting a little too distracted from crystals to help me fight in the Cave of Ice." Navi's aura went completely red with embarrassment for a moment, before returning to normal. "Whatever..." she grumbled. "Well, at least we can see more clearly now." Noticing the fairy's words were true, Link cast a quick look around the room, before chuckling as he finally noticed an eye switch, high up on the back wall. Suddenly, he gulped. Damn! How can I activate it? My arm! I can't use my bow properly. I wonder if... "Navi?" the boy asked, glancing at his fairy companion. "Do you think you can activate that switch? I'd do it myself, but... well... the arm." Navi blinked, before giving a nod. "Okay!" she answered. "I'll give it a try. Stand back, Link." The fairy began to glow, energy building up around her. Link watched in awe as her power began to peak, before finally... "Yousei Kousen!" At her command, a beam of light shot from her body and activated the switch. The door on the far right opened, and Link at once headed towards it, stopping briefly to give Navi his thanks, before opening the door to enter the next room. The Hylian gasped as he entered the room, realising it was completely different than the last time he had been there. Behind him, the door sealed, mist beginning to form. Teeth clenched together, Link drew his sword with his good hand, holding it clumsily. Something's not right... The boy was right to be wary. As he took a few steps forward, he managed to stop himself just in time, narrowly avoiding falling into a pit of molten lava. ...I don't think my tunic will protect against that, somehow. He jumped back suddenly, as a creature shot out of the lava pit, landing on the other side. It stared him down, and through the haze, Link could barely see its form. It looked mostly human, if you didn't count the molten rock that made up its body. Glowing blue eyes remained fixed on their target. What the hell IS that thing? Navi glanced at it, squinting to see through the haze, before gasping. "It's Magmos!" she exclaimed. "Its scorching body pales in comparison to its flame breath! Close combat is inadvisable!" Clenching his teeth, Link shook his head. With no choice other than close quarters combat, he raced around the pit of lava, bringing his sword down on Magmos. The fiery creature just stood still, the sword smacking into its head, before bouncing away. No way! Magmos stared back at Link, before opening his mouth wide. The Hylian managed to jump to the side, narrowly avoiding a fireball that was shot at him. That was too close! Heart pounding in his chest, the boy was forced to dodge more fireballs, before Magmos began slowly moving towards him. Slowly backing away, Link glanced behind him, noticing he was right near the edge to the lava pit. Damn it! What am I going to do?! The temperature began rising, and once again, Link found himself perspiring. The same crazy idea from before entered his mind, and with great speed, the Ocarina of Time was placed at his lips. Navi gave a confused screech. "Link!" she called. "Is now really the time?!" Ignoring the fairy, he played the Song of Storms. Once more, storm clouds appeared above him. Lightning flashed, thunder crashed, and the rain came down in a torrential downpour. Magmos groaned, slowing to a halt right in front of Link, flames lowering in ferocity. The Hylian used this to his advantage and slashed away with his sword. Will this work? The blade connected, and pieces of molten rock began to crumble away. A relieved laugh came from the boy as he continued hacking away. Moments later, he landed the final blow, and the magma rocks flew apart. Link gasped as a Goron dropped to the floor, giving a groan. First, the Deku... now Gorons? The Goron shuddered, before blinking his eyes. Glancing around in confusion, he stood and stared at Link. "Big Brother-goro?" the Goron asked. "Is that you-goro?" Resisting the urge to groan, Link nodded, helping the Goron to his feet. "Yeah... it's me..." The Goron gave a relieved smile and bowed his head. "It is good to see you again-goro..." he replied. "I am Komor-goro. I do not remember what happened-goro... but perhaps I can help you-goro." Komor gestured behind him, where Link noticed a treasure chest. The Goron cleared his throat and continued. "My task..." he explained. "...was to protect this treasure-goro. A prophecy speaks of an evil power that besieges the world, but a brave hero will stand up against it-goro. I believe that hero to be you, Big Brother-goro! I hope this treasure will help you-goro." Link listened closely, giving a nod as Komor excused himself and left. Alone with Navi, he gave a sigh. "Well..." he muttered. "Guess it's time to see what the treasure is..." Walking towards the chest, he opened it, giving a grumble as he pulled out yet another scroll. Glancing at it, he read the Ancient Hylian contents in his mind, before translating it aloud. "If light is what you must defend, keep me close, and find my every friend." A look of confusion came to his face as he tried to make sense of the contents. "Don't think too hard on it!" Navi piped up suddenly. "We need to find a way to break the curse on the temple." With a shrug, the boy carefully navigated around the pit of lava, heading back out the door. Looking over to the other side of the corridor, he noticed the door was now unlocked, probably a result of defeating Magmos. I wonder what I'll find in that room... Taking a breath, he raced over to the other side, and opened the door, giving a slight cringe as his arm twitched in pain. Brushing the pain aside, the blond stared around. The room was exactly as he remembered it, however, the pillar was in place. Link's eyes narrowed in suspicion. It doesn't make sense! That pillar shouldn't be there. I put that pillar there... but it hasn't happened yet, so... With a grunt, he jumped onto the pillar, before heading to the other side, even more suspicious that the doorway that led to the inner lair was unshackled. "Strange..." Navi said suddenly. "It's as if you've already been here... but you haven't... I mean... not yet... in this timeline." Giving another shrug, Link opened the door and entered the inner lair, stopping with a gasp. "But..." the boy breathed. "It's... impossible!" The Hylian had vivid memories of battling Volvagia, but the room looked nothing like he remembered. Sure, there was a massive pit of lava, but if anything, it bore more resemblance to where he fought his very first Lizalfos as a child. That was in the Dodongo's Cave... not the Temple of Flames. Just what the hell is going on? Moving onwards, Link once again noticed strange markings on the wall. More of the ancient language... something tells me that I'll be seeing a lot of this... Staring at it, he read it aloud. "Only if you're strong and brave..." he began. "...can you survive when magma fills this cave. Exercise your strength of will... and proceed by standing still." Link cocked his head to the side, attempting to figure out the meaning behind the scripture. He glanced at Navi, the fairy glancing back. Suddenly, the ground began to rumble, and without warning, magma began to fill the room. End of Chapter 5.

I don't like either, but I'll go with ECCO, because it has the same name as a certain dolphin. Albedo or Rubedo?

Superboss: ZethN64The superboss, ZethN64 is the protege of the infamous Shadow Fire. He exists as a protector of sorts. Along with Shadow Fire, he seeks to prevent the great calamity that is prophecised to befall the cosmos, by laying siege to Finlandcycles, as well as to any other guild or bystander that stands in his way. While he currently has no control over Vercingetorix, there is a rumour that he still possesses the power to use another devastating creature. Caution is recommended, as ZethN64, while not as powerful as Shadow Fire, still sports a wide range of extremely powerful attacks.

Superboss: Shadow FireThe superboss, Shadow Fire is the final line of defence against the prophecised calamity that will befall the entire cosmos. He has a fierce arsenal of attacks at his command. It is believed that the calamity he is trying to prevent will inevitably be caused by a faction known as Finlandcycles. Because of this reason, he is driven by a pre-programmed sense of duty, and will ruthlessly attack anyone in the faction's affliation. However, this does not prevent him from randomly attacking other guilds or bystanders. On a positive note, he does have restrictions placed on him for the time being: He can only attack the same person once per day. This makes it easier for people to regroup and level up as much as possible to prevent a future defeat. The highest attacks he will generally use are level 3 elemental spells, unless a threat is perceived. Despite his fearsome power, he has been known to provide assistance, due to his role as peacekeeper. There is a rumour that this foe commands the powerful Vercingetorix. However, nobody has witnessed this, and lived to tell about it.